Page 1 April 2015

PCCC’s VISIONS Volume XLV Issue 4 The Student Newspaper of Passaic County Community College, Paterson, NJ April 2015 Never in a million years: “Come As You Are” Honors Program sponsored trip By Iris Rosario, Honors and Phi Theta Kappa member, tutor, Gateway Center

C.S. Lewis once said, “You are never Program Trip Coordinator, Professor Alex- too old to set another goal or to dream a new andra Della Fera, English Department. dream.” This quote could not fit my personal The trip comprised of stu- story any better. dents from all walks of life and in every ma- Growing up, expectations for fe- jor you could imagine from Technology to males were very low and career goals were Human Services. I was able to meet students unheard of. Instead, success was measured I otherwise would never have come in con- by the ability to finish high school, find a tact with. husband, have children and stay home. Part of the title of the ex- Completing high school reflected hibit exemplifies the community of PCCC, both the high point and abrupt end of an ed- “Come As You Are…”. There were over 30 ucational career. By those standards, I was artists being displayed. Not ever being ex- fulfilling my destiny early on. Yet despite posed to art in this way, some pieces had me the way I was conditioned to think about my scratching my head and completely missing future, I struggled to find my own voice and whatever the artist was attempting to con- meaning of success. vey. After much hard work, I find myself Other pieces left a bigger not only pursuing a college degree, but also Professor Alexandra Della Fera, far left posed in front impression on me. Like the beautiful purple thriving as an Honors Program student tak- of Cuban Pete’s with Honors Program members for a velvet Victorian sofa that was hanging on ing full advantage of the opportunities of- cultural experience trip to MAM the wall with a suicide note embroidered on fered to me as a result. the back as well as on the cushions. One such opportunity was a trip to an art exhibit at the Montclair You could almost hear the mother’s voice as she wrote her Art Museum (MAM) to view an exhibit titled “Come As You Are: Art of last goodbye to her daughters. It was moving and stayed with me even The 1990s,” on March 27 sponsored by the Honors Program and Honors when the tour was over. (Continues on page 4) The balancing act- Earth Day 2015 at PCCC By Diego Mendoza

being a student, Earth Day, started in 1970, and went global in 1990 with all sorts of environmental issues arising at the time. More and more peo- being an adult ple have been getting involved, not only for the day, but year round as well. As we celebrate Earth Day on April 22, a series of students were By Jessica Henderson asked how they previously celebrated the holiday, and how they will Students who attend college come from all walks of life. For ex- be contributing this year. ample, some students may have decided to jump right in after high school, some waited a few years, and some just didn’t have the opportunity until now. No matter what the story is, it’s very clear that being a college student, and having adult responsibilities can be quite a struggle. Although possible, some of the road blocks some people face in or- der to be responsible adults while attending college can be tricky. Whether students work full time or part time, juggling time to study and do well in their classes while trying to support themselves and others can be difficult. According to The Future of Children Journal Issue on the Transition from: www.mashable.com Image to Adulthood, things have changed dramatically over the decades. Tradi- tionally, college students back in the 50’s and 60’s were white males from middle- or upper-income families. Today, not only are females attending college, there are more and more students ranging from ages 25 to even 50. Stacey Sibrian, a student here at PCCC who also works part time According to the article “Earth Day: The History of a Movement” stated “College life would be easier if some professors were more consid- by the Earth Day Network , Earth Day in 1970 capitalized on the erate with all the work they give. I have four classes each with the same protests of the time and the radicalistic rebellions to put environmen- amount of work. It gets hectic rushing through papers and projects. It’s hard tal concerns at the front to feel like you can succeed when you have so much work piled on.” It’s of everyone’s attention. very clear that things can get overwhelming when so many professors give Last year PCCC offered In this issue multiple assignments each week. Although being successful takes some seminars and workshops sacrifice, how much is too much? about this day. The ma- News ...... Pages 1 - 3 Online classes seem to really help people that have other responsi- jority of the students in- Features ...... Pages 4 - 5 bilities while still trying to obtain a college education. However, It seems as terviewed were not ac- E.O.F ...... Page 6 though only General Education courses are available online, which presents tive, and this interview Professor Highlights.....Page 7 a problem for many students. Imagine, no more trying to find a babysitter, had opened their eyes. Education ...... Page 8 or having a certain work schedule, or maybe still finding time to squeeze in Felipe Peralta, Communications and a social life. 21, a Computer Science Journalism News ...... Page 9 major said, “I didn’t do If students knew they would be able to take all of their classes on- Arts ...... Page 10 anything. I know it is line, the extra money left over from financial aid can be used to obtain the Opinion ...... Page 11 internet at home for those that don’t have it. Thus, Writing Contest ...... Pages 13 - 16 alleviating a lot of the stresses that so many face. (Continues on page 6) (Continues on page 6) Page 2 News April 2015

Editor-in-Chief Paul Rudd fined for charges X-Zaviour Johnson

Senior Editors Albert Bustos on shoes Nicole C. Richardson By Thomas Mckernan Famous actor Kool Aid Man was re- on shade relevance on pen appeal. Full-time Staff cently detained for adding too much okra in Luckily Stewart Little could make Thomas Mckernan his sailboat during the last solstice. Witness- the appointment after a visit from Jada Osgood es say Kesha was too far away from the scene Dr. House. due to traffic issues and a lack of a blizzard in However, the Stew was apparently Faculty Advisors Alaska. too bright for the Cowboy Clay to Christine Redman-Waldeyer During a recent visit to the Mirror throw into the face of his master Mr. Walter Behr Pool on top of Mt. FoolG Dipsy, Laa-laa, Po, Miyagi who was at the time dancing and Tinky were on route to the Berry fields; with his new janitor Ping Pong. Visions Alumni owned by the Troll under the Bridge; to make ketchup. The Fanta girls referenced Pikachu in the jar when Sadia-adu Phillips Unfortunate events conspired and Jack Nicolson couldn’t they said; “I don’t know why Eiffel 65 was selling blue make it over the hedge. dyes on the corner of the health and happy but we sure Layout The Walrus from Disney’s Susy and Wonderland did like the taste of mac and cheese on the pavement.” Albert Bustos had this to say, “I never thought I’d see the day when Mewtwo was off set from his new movie pocket protectors would come back in style.” Reporter “Pokémon vs Digimon” when he saw Will Smith drink- Contributing Writers Enimen attempted to get more information but then Aeri- ing a Coke. He inadvertently attacked the two Bad boys Steven Almonacid al was unfortunately stricken with a terrible case of elec- who was watching “Yo mamas” house for the weekend. Whitney Caridad trocution before any further wrapping could be made. “The worst thing that could have happened was the ceil- Meir Esral Across the volcano, trigonometry seems to be ex- ing falling on top of the chicken’s hat.” Samantha Ferreira ceeding expectations of Prof. Einstein’s initial opinion Tarzan’s trip to PCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCC Darien Gabriel-Jones opened many doors for the Giant Mechanical Spider pro- Jessica Henderson gram. “*&&X%, sky, land, and sea are in heart.” Scien- Naftaly Hiraldo tists are still trying to piece the puzzles back together but Jad Judeh the 3D glasses aren’t as useful as the eye patch Courage Valerie Marcucci got from the slab. Diego Mendoza Fred Fredburger made a deal the King of diamonds Diane Ortega couldn’t refuse. That is if friendship can stay magic in the Jenny Pagan coming millennium and not a toaster later, Swiper would James Ramsey make a giant waffle appear in Westeros. Although the lat- Iris Rosario est breakfast menu from Chipotle competes with Ninten- Aspen Thompson do’s 5 guys. Enjoy the rest of April fools!!!

Contact us at: [email protected] Bibliophile Confessions:

By Jenny Pagan Why I love(d) to read “Before I can even speak, I knew how to up in jail, but that didn’t seem likely.” She came book, even if read.” That’s what PCCC student Waleska Me- across other books such as Harry Potter, Pride & just for an drano, a 27 year Education major had said while Prejudice, Stephen King novels, and so on. hour. She was speaking about the hobby she loved to do the In her mind, she considered her favor- mesmerized most. Of course she didn’t know how to read as ite books to be quality literature, but that would by Sotomay- from: www.biglittlebooks.org Image a child, but she would always gaze at the books soon be disrupted by something that was to be or’s words, her mother would read to her every night. expected. “My nose was always in books until with their tale The fascination with the symbols on something dreadful interrupted many people’s of love, fami- each page would always catch her attention and love for reading…college.” ly, and triumph. she would always listen intently to the stories Medrano fully believes that attending “As I read, I felt upset and angry with that were being read aloud to her. Years passed college does not discourage reading but does her mother’s relationship with her, especially and Medrano learned that those strange sym- quite the opposite; it involves reading all the since she locked herself up in a room for months bols were actually letters, and those letters lat- time, literally. Teachers assign endless amounts after her husband’s death from alcohol.” There er would form words. Words would form sen- of work for students which involves reading were other feelings she felt for Sotomayor, such tences, and the pages she would soon be reading from the textbooks, journals, and so on. And as happiness when she moved from her impov- would transform into the one thing she grew to when they’re not just reading from those, they erished life to entering the prestigious colleges, love most: books. take notes on them for class. By the time their Princeton and Yale. She also became fascinated “It was then I realized that I could be work is done, most just want to go to sleep from by Sotomayor’s confrontations with her fears transported to places beyond imagining.” As a how exhausted they have become. and her failures. child, Medrano remembered reading the Goose- “Reading for pleasure slowly died within “She didn’t do well in a course, so she bumps series as a child and being frightened so me, where it was the last thought on my mind ended up taking an even harder course on the much that she had to hide the books so she could because of the work I was given during each se- same subject, and when she was afraid to swim, sleep at night. She imagined herself in places mester.” she took swimming lessons to overcome that like Nightmoon in “Welcome to Camp Night- It wasn’t until this semester that Medrano fear.” mare” where she could fall into the hands of the would have her enjoyable hobby back because of After reading this book, there was a creature called Sabre, or in the school basement one class. For an assignment, she was to choose difference in Medrano’s reading, writing, and in “Phantom of the Auditorium,” finding an odd a topic to write an essay about, and she ended thinking. She was able to concentrate on school script for a play with someone lurking the dark up stumbling upon the book that would return work easily and was able to read her books for corners of the school stage. her the passion for reading. She got her hands on fun afterwards. Her thoughts became more or- She eventually grew out of the Goose- the autobiography called My Beloved World, by ganized and she was able to concentrate on the bumps series and stumbled into one of the many Sonia Sotomayor and fell in love once again. tasks in hand that were somewhat less stressful. books that she considers to be her favorites, When she found the book, she was com- “When you’re not busy with homework, The Coldest Winter Ever. “I remember getting pletely engulfed within her story, consuming participating in class, or even working, pick up a so emotional over Winter’s life and hoped she each page as she read. She would trade in her book for the heck of it – you will later ask your- could see the errors in her ways before she ended time for television and social media to read the self why you stopped reading in the first place.” Page 3 News April 2015 PTK’s Middle States Region, 28th Annual Convention By Albert Bustos On March 14, 2015, PCCC’s Phi Theta al Scholar Laureate recipients. De Jesus said, Dr, Bookbinder said, “If you’re in a com- Kappa Honor Society chapter, Alpha Eta Chi “My highlight at the convention occurred during munity college with a descent GPA you could joined many other PTK chapters at the Annual breakfast when a few of our chapter’s members transfer anywhere, but you must work very hard Business Meeting of the Middle States Region began serenading “Happy Birthday” to me and to get into say Harvard or Yale.” Alumni Association. This was their 28th Annual within seconds over 250 members in attendance At the Gala Awards celebration, Alpha Convention and it took place at the Sheraton Par- joined in. It was a great way to start off a birth- Eta Chi received an award for the completion sippany Hotel. day.” of the three-star level, which is out of a five-star The PCCC attendees were Nelton Bar- Ballestas says her highlight at the con- goal. De Jesus said, “These awards are given to rett, president of PCCC’s PTK Honor Society vention was seeing the determination and ded- chapters of PTK who do goal-orientated projects and Vice President of the Leadership Commit- ication from PTK officers. “They’re into PTK to get them to be more active participants in the tee, Miguel De Jesus, Vice President and Service strong and into what they do. This gives mem- growth of the society in general. Our chapter Committee member, Laura Ballestas, Vice Pres- bers from PCCC enthusiasm, which helps fur- hasn’t been recognized in over four years due to ident and Executive Committee Chairperson, ther the growth of Alpha Eta Chi. It shows us the our chapter’s lack of participation in such con- Kelly Gutierrez, General Committee Chairper- importance of PTK society and how it helps us ventions and not properly reporting the projects son, Nicholas Peterson, Public Relations Secre- be better people and students.” they were completing.” Thirty-six chapters at- tary, Karina Acedo, Iris Rosario, Emilita Bard- Throughout the convention there were tended the awards celebration. zell, Julius Ware and Dr. Ware who graduated with Martin Bookbinder, Facul- an Associate in Business ty Advisor. Administration and who Barrett is major- is currently working on a Albert Bustos ing in Business Admin- certificate in Network Ad- istration/Management ministration, says PTK has Information Systems and helped him have access to says, “I want to work opportunities by talking to with non-profits to supply universities that otherwise scholarships to students wouldn’t have considered who are Ivy League ma- him. terial, but may decline the At the convention the opportunity to attend an highlights for Ware were elite school because of fi- seeing the camaraderie nances.” and how attendees bonded Barrett is also a at the convention. teacher’s assistant and a He’s also a U.S. Army tutor, an Honors Program Veteran and says his edu- student and is one of the cational goals are to get a few 2015 International doctorate in Organization- Scholar Laureate recipi- al Management and would ents at PCCC. really love to attend an Ivy He says his highlight at the League school. convention was discover- About being a member From left to right: Kelly Gutierrez, Karina Acedo, Iris Rosario, Emelita Bardzell, ing that there’s more money of PTK he said, “It’s an Laura Ballestas, Nelton Barrett, Miguel De Jesus and Nicholas Peterson. for students. accomplishment, it’s a na- De Jesus who had the pleasure to cele- different kinds of meetings and workshops. tional mark that says you are part of an elite brate his 39th birthday on the same day as the Breakfast, lunch and dinner were provided. The group. It’s a privilege for everyone to see. It’s convention says he plans to run for president atmosphere was full of positivity, opportunity a self-confidence booster. It’s a great achieve- of the PCCC chapter this April. “As president, and it was a place where like-minds could min- ment.” I will make sure that our chapter reaches a five gle and network. The newly elected Middle States Region- star status, and I will help members reach the The college fair luncheon provided mem- al President is 17 year-old, Noemie Broussoux five star level as individual members as well.” bers to talk and have conversations with repre- Coutard, a political science major at Bergen De Jesus plans to change some things if sentatives from various prestigious colleges like Community College. he becomes president by furthering the chapter’s Monmouth College, Rider University, St. John’s Coutard was born in France and moved community service projects and coordinating University, William Paterson University, The to Canada when she was two years old and just multiple fundraising events, so that members University of the Sciences, to name a few. this past summer she moved to New Jersey. are able to attend next year’s About her newly elected posi- regional and international con- tion she said, “I was shocked, ventions without depending on surprised, and proud of my Al-

the college’s budget. Albert Bustos pha Epsilon Phi chapter. I want “I implore all eligible to create an email and a Face- students to join PTK or the book account for regional teams, Honors Program. There are tre- because sometimes advisors are mendous amounts of benefits busy and members don’t want that come along with member- to reach out to regional head- ship. For instance, members quarters. I want members to feel are privileged to have access comfortable when reaching out.” to scholarships that are only Twenty-one year-old for PTK members, many four- Samantha Baldwin an English year colleges cut tuition cost major at Harrison Community for members, there’s letters of College in Maryland and for- recommendations you can have mer Middle States Regional from reputable members of the President said, “The position as PTK society and you get to Middle States Regional Presi- meet like-minds that you can dent changed me for the better. It network and grow with.” helped me get out of my shell and De Jesus is also one it gave me confidence. I can now of the few 2015 Internation- From left to right: Dr. Martin Bookbinder, Miguel De Jesus and Nicholas speak Peterson waiting for the awards ceremony to begin. (Continues on Page 5) Page 4 Features April 2015 Honors Program Do you ever feel left out? sponsored trip By Jad Judeh (Continued from page 1) Nowadays the average person doesn’t like awhile, even though it is a difficult thing to do. Another piece you would think to be alone. They enjoy other people’s company no Newman says that always saying yes can was a simple painting, except with clos- matter what the setting is. Sure there are people who lead to anxiety and stress because you always feel er inspection you could see it was sugar. don’t like being around anyone and they strictly like like you have to do something for someone. Or you There were so many parts to this exhibit being by themselves, but you don’t see those indi- always have to be somewhere because you don’t that you couldn’t appreciate them all. I viduals as often. ever want to be left out. plan to go back with my son and daugh- Today’s society is fast paced and seems as ter and view them. if there is always something for you to do. It makes After the exhibit we were treat- it hard to stay home and just relax and not go out. ed to dinner at Cuban Pete’s. This was In your mind you feel like you are missing out on a special trip as some of us had never something. We trick ourselves into thinking that is experienced authentic Cuban food. the case. Being able to interact and get to I spoke to students around campus to find out know the other students was priceless how they felt when it came down to being left out. in and of itself. Interacting with Pro- Most students hate the idea of being by themselves Image from: www.tantra2men.com Image fessor Della Fera gave me an appreci- and there were a few students who preferred to stay ation of her heart for the students and alone. her willingness to participate with us on Chris Lockey 21, Arts major, agreed with trip is something I will carry with me. most students as he always liked being around some- Professor Della Fera stated that body and he didn’t like the feeling of being left out. “One of my objectives of the trip was to “ I’m the type of guy that is always with my boys, no show our students that they don’t have matter what they are doing I always meet them. The There is also the reasoning that kids never to travel far for cultural learning expe- way I see it, what if one time I don’t go and they do say no to their friends because they don’t want them riences.” something that is a once in a lifetime kind of thing. I to be mad at them, or they feel that if they do say no Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote don’t want to miss that.” that one time, then maybe that friend won’t ask them “What lies behind you and what lies Not surprising that I got similar answers to hang out or they would feel some type of way. in front of you, pales in comparison to from other students as well. Now of course there will always be those what lies inside of you.” This is some- Melanie Rodriguez, 19, Journalism major, students who want nothing to do with society and thing PCCC is helping me recognize. also agreed with Lockey, but she had a slightly dif- they just do what they have to do and go home and ferent take on why she likes to be with her friends. “ stay there until they have to come back and do the I like to gossip, and just find out what’s going on and same thing again. where it’s going on, I don’t like to miss anything. Thomas Wolley, 22, undecided, said “if I The only time I like being home is to eat and sleep.” didn’t have to come to school I would probably nev- According to thefriendshipblog.com, Susan er leave my house. I strictly go to my classes and Newman, a psychologist, agrees with the notion drive straight home without saying a peep to any- that is okay to say no to your friends every once in body. I barely speak to my professors.” As winter ends commuters complain By Meir Esral After a hazardous winter, many student parking lot with a couple other businesses, with commuter said that the Wanaque Campus was drivers remain frustrated with their daily com- most of the space on the lot going to storage actually a better commute. She said, It only takes mute. units. a little longer, but when you go there it’s nice. While many colleges have a large resi- The Passaic and Paterson Campuses are You can get out of the city, see the trees. You dent community, with only some of the students both in downtown areas along bus lines making don’t have to deal with cray people running into commuting, this is not so at Passaic County transportation relatively simple for those living the street.” Community College. near those bus lines. Hiromoto said that even though the Pat- PCCC reports over 13,000 student in its The Wayne and Wanaque Campuses erson Campus is much closer to Clifton, she en- census. All of these students have to commute, don’t have this type of public transportation joys the drive to Wanque. Although she enjoys except for those wholly enrolled online. As a hook-up. According the NJTransit search engine driving in general, driving in Downtown Pater- community college, PCCC has no housing on there is no bus to the Wanaque Campus at all. son is very aggravating. campus. Many students commute considerable The Wayne and Wanaque Campuses have Hiromoto said that it takes several cycles distances. fewer complaints with regards to commuting. to get through each traffic light. The light turns For example, those is the nursing pro- Although the Wayne section of NJ-23, which lies green but there are pedestrians blocking the in- gram have to commute to the City of Passaic. on the way the Wanaque, is subject to heavy rush tersection. After they clear the intersection only The Passaic is at the southern tip of Passaic hour traffic. a couple cars can get through. County which is why this is a long commute for It is a common sight along New Jerseys The opposing traffic doesn’t clear the many residents. highways for several cars to be stopped all from box causing gridlock, Himromoto continued, Much of northern Passaic County is an one accident. These are usually minor but there and inviting more random crossings. This whole hour away even without traffic, which is - fre are many exceptions. process is repeated at each intersection. Many quently considerable. According to the New Jersey Department drivers become highly angry and frustrated and On the other hand Nicholas Mustrat, 21, of Transportation in recent years there are about begin driving erratically adding to the chaos. a PCCC student from Wayne, said that he pre- 20,000 motor vehicle collisions each year in Pas- According to the NJ Climate and Weath- fers to drive to school because his commute to saic County, resulting in about 4,000 injuries and er Network, North Jersey averages over two feet school is mild, and there is no practical public 20-30 deaths. of snow each winter. This is an obvious impedi- transit to school. “I would have to drive to Wil- Zaid Mansour, 20, a Clifton resident and ment to safe travel on many days. lowbrook Mall, and then take the bus from there. PCCC student said “Without traffic it only takes The freeze and thaw of winter creates It’s just not practical.” Mustrat went on to say 7 minutes to get to the Paterson Campus. I timed potholes that are very aggravated by the action that it would increase the length of his commute it.” He said that when there is traffic it can take a of snow plows. from 20 minutes to over an hour. half hour to cover the same distance. The Paterson Times reported on the thir- Even those who live closer have had to When it snows it gets even worse he said, teenth of March that the pothole problem is so contend with inner city traffic at the Paterson “The plows just move the snow around and the severe that that some streets are impassable. The Campus. It often requires scarcely believable street becomes just one lane.” Mansour added snow prevents repairs, but has recently melted. amounts of time to travel even just a mile on that the pothole created by plows slow down the Mohammed Akhtaruzzaman councilman some streets around the Paterson Campus. traffic even further. from the Second Ward is quoted as saying that The Passaic Campus is better off, being Mansour added that traffic going to the “as soon as the snow is gone we have to tackle it only yards from an entrance to NJ-21 but there Wanaque campus was also pretty bad on the one right away.” remains an insufficient number of parking spac- time he had to go there. es at that campus. The Passaic Campus shares a Melanie Hiromoto, 19, also a PCCC Page 5 Features April 2015 New season, new clothes? Should you really burn a hole in your wallet for seasonal clothing? By Samantha Ferreira

As the weather gets warmer and the the clothing trends.” these two for that you can get this and that for season changes so do department stores across Maryanne Arbulu, 21, Sociology Major, this much. By the end, the clerk tells me I saved the state. Stores everywhere advertise all kinds says, “I hate spending so much money every a certain amount, but I end up paying three times of new clothing to prepare people for the new time stores change their clothes from either sum- of what I even planned or have in my pocket.” season. Putting winter items on sale and spring mer to winter, or vice versa, I just can’t help it. Denise Garcia, 23, Nursing, works as a clothes up on display, department stores are will- I’ll go to the mall to hangout with a few friends, sales associate part time and claims, “The place ing to do anything to get you to spend money on I’d see something on a manikin and it is almost I work at loves to send people discounts in the new clothes that you do not really need. like I have to have it. Clothes are seasonal so it is mail and what people do not really realize is that From sale signs, to coupons, dis- they are being tricked. At least twenty times counts, commercials, even emails offering a day I have people complaining at the reg- free shipping, mail notices, and eye catching ister wondering why they cannot use their window displays the allure to spend is ev- discounts for their purchases. Almost ninety erywhere. Even when you think you are free nine percent of our coupons are very limited from all the buzz of the upcoming season, on what you can use them on.” social media comes in to play their part in Garcia continues, “When people receive burning a hole in your wallet. them they see the bold letters and numbers According to Raven Deve, 21, an saying how much they can save, but if you English Major, “I aspire to be well dressed really take a look at it underneath all of that is everyday like all my favorite fashionistas on a fine print that restricts the coupon on major- tv. Those girls know what is in and what is ity of top name brands that our store carries.” out, what stores to shop at, and basically all Another sales associate Allyson Pinon, the trends. If I have to work my butt off to 20, Photography, states, “People should not look good I will because I want to consider my- not like I will be able to see or get it ever again.” bother spending their money on seasonal cloth- self current like them.” The part that really frustrates Alyssa Pie- ing. I have worked at my job long enough to re- Zuzu Sanchez, 24, Undeclared, states, dra, 20, Undeclared. Piedra states “I will always alize that clothes are not always so ‘seasonal’.” “Do you think it is really worth it buying every- leave a store spending way more than I have ever Pinon continues, “Last year there was a thing that the media says is new? Most of my intended.” She states, “Every time it gets warm- dress that came out for spring. Eventually when paycheck goes to clothing companies because er Victoria Secret comes out with tons of beauti- all the dresses did not sell out, they were put on everywhere I go there are signs and people tell- ful new bathing suits and they send me discounts sale. After awhile the dresses disappeared which ing me what I should buy. It is a struggle trying in the mail. Discounts that give you ten dollars I presume was sent back to the company. This to keep myself fresh.” off a new seasonal bra, a free beach bag with a spring I have seen the same exact dress back Sanchez goes on to further explain, “I seventy-five dollar purchase, buy two bathing again; only now with more color print options have a dozen Jordan sneakers in my closet. Most suit bottoms get another free, and a free panty for it. When I asked another associate about it, of them are all different colors to match differ- voucher.” they simply told me it was back in stock.” ent outfits, but the point is that Jordans are so Piedra continues, “This store just knows Do not be fooled by stores claiming to popular because the media hypes them up every how to suck you in because I go in thinking I will have new clothes every season. Stores are will- time they come out with a new pair. I don’t want just get my free underwear, until a sales associ- ing to do anything to get you to spend a buck, to feel outdated or have people nagging on my ate greets me at the door. And the person shows like even resale you the same item and call it shoes, but it gets annoying trying to keep up with you all their new items and tells you if you buy new. PTK: Middle States Region (Continued from page 3) eloquently in front of a crowd with no problem.” will be held at 3:00 p.m. in the College Theatre. A reception will follow Baldwin’s Regional accomplishments include having 112 compet- after the induction in the Paterson Room at 4:00 p.m. itive edge five-star members, 18 Middle States Gold Chapters, last year Interested in the PTK Honor Society? Visit: www.ptk.org or they had a record-breaking member attendance at the convention, which http://pccc.edu/prospective/academics/honors-at-pccc/phi-theta-kappa. was 240 members and were looked at as a distinguished region. She said, PTK members from PCCC welcome students to inquire about PTK “I’m proud of the accomplishments of my region and we hope to bring that by attending their weekly meeting. The meetings take place on Thursdays home this year again.” from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. at the Main campus, room A124 (the library ITV Baldwin said she is aware that Passaic County is regaining PTK room.) All are welcomed to learn about PTK. activity and shouts-out Passaic County. She advises Passaic County to be aware of all PTK events. Rana Elmekadem is 21 years old, she was elected at last year’s convention as NJ State President of PTK. She is a Pharmacy major at Camden County College and said, “It was about time to move on from Albert Bustos Middle States.” In the beginning Elmekadem thought she was just another Honor society member. “Once I became president of the chapter then I realized PTK had a lot to offer. I wanted to engage in this society and engage oth- ers when the opportunity presented itself.” She’s looking to finish her doctorate in pharmacy and then come- back to assist as an Alumni. She urges members and officers to take advantage of all that PTK has to offer because it’s a lot and well worth it. “If I can go back, I would do it again in a heartbeat,” said Elmekadem. She says her highlight at the convention was being nominated for distinguished regional officer. After all the business was taken care of, PTK members joined up at the Skyland Suite to partake in a masquerade dance. It was a great way to unwind after all of the day’s events. Members danced and partied with all PTK chapters together networking and just having a great time. Julius Ware speaking with a college representative after the PCCC’s Alpha Eta Chi Chapter will be having their Phi Theta college fair luncheon Kappa Induction Ceremony on Tuesday, May 19, 2015. The ceremony Page 6 EOF April 2015 The pros of Educational Opportunity Fund

By James Ramsey

I’m reporter James Ramsey, and as a Graphic Design major at Passaic County Community College (P.C.C.C.), and an Educational Op- portunity Fund (E.O.F.) student, I’ve learned how important it is to have a program that nurtures the students in an inspirational and encouraging environment. Being an E.O.F. student means having a support system that uplifts, encourages, inspires all students to achieve fulfillment in personal and academic sections of life. Cassidy Evering, a Passaic County Community College student, Fashion Marketing major, and E.O.F. student, has been exposed to many different leadership roles. In addition to being a member of the AESNJ - The Alliance of Educational Opportunity Fund Stu- dents of New Jersey - she was an unofficial E.O.F. tutor where she encouraged her peers to do better in academia. This leadership role led Ms. Evering into becoming a work-study student in the E.O.F. Office for the spring 2015 semester. Ms. Evering states, “E.O.F. pushes me in areas where I am met with the program’s admissions counselor and weak, and encourages me to continue developing they informed him about the program and at first, the skills I’ve already acquired.” Mr. Veal did not understand how powerful of an Amanda Kibler, a tutor in the E.O.F. Lab Michelle Softley Director of E.O.F. at PCCC impact E.O.F. would have on him. at Passaic County Community College, felt like she After completing his freshman year, Mr. Veal chose to give back to was not intelligent enough to attend College. The E.O.F. counselors en- EOF by volunteering to be a tutor and mentor. With the support from EOF, couraged her to go to tutoring every day, even on the days she did not have Mr. Veal found strength in himself that he did not know was there. homework. During this time, Ms. Kibler learned the importance of tutor- Furthermore, E.O.F. helps build character, judgment, and ethics. ing, and this inspired her to become a tutor. The program continues to advance with new and innovating ways to better This willingness to help others made Ms. Kibler so strong in her a student’s college career. The director Michelle Softley and staff under- belief that she wants to become an English professor. E.O.F. helps students stand students’ educational goals and help direct them towards honors. realize their dreams. Ms. Kibler adds, “E.O.F. helped me realize that I have The E.O.F. environment is an environment where people are con- the skills to be a great teacher.” cerned about your feelings and wellbeing. In my opinion, this program Brandon Veal, an Engineering Science Major and former home is perfect. I’m hoping to reach many PCCC students so they’ll be able to schooled student, always had a dream of becoming a Mechanical Engi- experience the same joy other students and I received from this program. neer. This was not possible until he discovered the E.O.F. program. He Balancing act 2015 Earth Day (Continued from page 1) (Continued from page 1) very important, it just wasn’t a big deal to me”. day. This year, I’m just going to unplug all of my Here, the focus is on how to over- He added “I think everyone would benefit from electronics instead.” come the obstacles faced by this population taking part in earth day. Everyone could learn Maria Villagran, 18, Exercise Science major said of students. Kiyanna Henry, an Occupational how to be more responsible with the earth’s “I don’t remember what I did last year for Earth Therapy Assisting major at PCCC stated, “I cleanliness because it affects us all in some way.” Day, but when I was in elementary school we squeeze in study time by coming to school Peralta thought to himself for a minute, used to talk and learn about ways to protect the earlier or staying later than my classes, going and then continued by saying, “I think with young Earth from the harm we do to it. Now that I’m to sleep late at night and trying to develop people Earth Day will have the most impact be- older, I feel Earth Day isn’t really promoted or other tactics that will help me.” cause we are most likely to make changes.” He seen as important enough though it is. It just isn’t A few other tactics that students can finally added, “I really don’t celebrate Earth Day talked about as much among people our age.” use is based around time management. Set- but maybe I’ll make a special effort to recycle.” With that being said, Villagran continued with ting yourself up for doing assignments last Adriano Pena, 20, an Engineering Sci- “Everyone would benefit from taking part in minute can be very overwhelming. Staying a ence major said, “I car pooled with some friends Earth Day whether just learning about it or actu- week or two ahead can make things a lot less for earth day last year and will probably do the ally taking part in activities. They would benefit stressful. same this year as well because every little bit from it because any small thing we do can help Looking at each student that walks helps.’ He continued by saying, “I don’t think our earth. If we don’t take care of it, eventual- the halls at PCCC, we tend to wonder how any one person would benefit from taking part in ly, future generations will suffer from the conse- they do it. Combining a college education Earth Day, but I think the earth would because we quences of neglect.” with adult responsibilities can be difficult, would all learn how to be more energy efficient.” Furthermore, Villagran added “I think Earth Day but it’s all about making it happen and look- Pena quickly answered by saying, “I think has the most impact in the United States because ing at the bigger picture. The sacrifices we earth day would have the most impact with kids. people are much more conscious about world- make in order to get good grades, and make They are going to learn early on how to be green- wide issues like these. Not everyone is conscious it through this part of our lives will have a er and will grow up that way, and it will stick of it, but I think it’s one of the countries that tries tremendous outcome later on in life. with them as adults.” He finally said, “I don’t cel- to educate their citizens about Earth Day.” Vil- When it’s all said and done, not only ebrate Earth Day, but I think I’m going to start lagran’s concluding thought was “I haven’t cel- will we be able to say we accomplished some- to celebrate by planting a new tree in my back ebrated Earth Day in a long time, but now I am thing great while providing for ourselves and yard.” thinking about taking part in it in the years to our families, but we will be able to give a bet- Louis Barrios, 22, Architect major, replied “Last come.” ter life to ourselves and the people we love. year I walked to school for Earth Day instead of With all of these students having the same We will be able to look back and say, “I did driving to cut back on pollution.” His next re- thoughts, they wished to do more to care for the it”! sponse was “I think adults will benefit from Earth earth they live on. Some tried, and every little ef- Day the most. If they learn ways to save energy, fort counts, but the most important part is that at it’ll cut back on electricity bills and that’s import- least they are willing to make an effort to protect ant.” our world from pollution and global warming. Barrios had more to say, and continued with “I Whether it be something big or something small, think recycling will see the most impact from these students must encourage others to take part Earth Day since it’s easy enough to do regularly.” in making the world a better place so it will in- He ended his interview with “I walk every Earth spire others. Day instead of driving as my celebration of the Image from: headsupab.wordpress.com Page 7 Professor Highlights April 2015 Great African American leader and legend in PCCC By Whitney Caridad

In February we celebrated Black History he knows will require commitment and hard work ex- month. It is a month of reflection where we observe pecting the very best from them. In doing that he has and note great black leaders that have changed the witnessed the blooming hidden talents and gifts in his way the world works and thinks. students. Professor Elliot Collins, former president of Professor Collins enjoys working with students es- PCCC and current western civilization instructor, has pecially those considered minority students because a heart for helping students, that they may rise and he can from personal experience tell them that their move our world forward. lack of opportunities is not a barrier they can't kick For black history month Collins usually as- down and go beyond. “I think that that's what life is signs honor students special books on black history Professor Elliot Collins all about, helping others to achieve and to reach their that he knows will give them full potential." knowledge on the truth and re- “I was born poor, uneducated parents, It is very clear to Professor ality of the story line of black Collins that black people and all people. broken home like a lot of our students, so people are responsible for mak- Professor Collins has ing the choice to get up and do always enjoyed teaching but he if I can achieve they can achieve, which something great with the life wasn't able to get a teaching job is why I always push my students.” they have been given. at a college so he started work- "I was born poor, uneducat- ing in administration at different schools. ed parents, broken home like a lot of our students, so if I can achieve they He joined PCCC in 1979 as an employee in the financial aid office, can achieve, which is why I always push my students." then the admissions office and several other offices. He later got promoted Professor Collins has taught in places where opportunities were to a dean, then the vice president. After working his way up from office to abundant but he feels responsible to reach out and build up a strong and office in 1991 he became the official president of the whole school. well equipped generation of professionals. That’s what keeps him here. Shortly after that he was able to get his dream job as a professor in He believes that a careless teacher equals careless students. He un- the school in addition to being president of the school. derstands the importance of both sides of teaching and learning. In 1995 Professor Collins became sick and left his presidency to The students have to make the choice to work hard for their suc- become a full time instructor. Today we see black successful people and cess but a teacher has the responsibility to equip and build those students think "well they must have had a well off family" or something along those up. He is very aware of the huge impact the quality that leadership has on lines. Professor Collins is here for the very opposite reason. In fact he can people, especially young college students. relate to the majority of students here at PCCC. Booker T. Washington, educator and civil right activist, words to Professor Collins joined PCCC because he understands our way the slaves in his time is what Collins strongly believes every black students of life, for he too came from an urban social background. "When I see the in PCCC or person in general should live by. “Don’t worry about your past students I see myself when I was their age." Professor Collins understands cast down your buckets where you are use what you got build on that and his students and feels true passion in instilling knowledge, wisdom and become decent men and women and respectable in your communities and encouragement in all of his students. in your families.” He believes in all his students and often assigns work to them that The Hahn warrior: PCCC professor shares her personal battles By Naftaly Hiraldo In 1960s Dumont, New Jersey, a little ships due to her family’s finances. na have it.” girl and her siblings drag around a wagon and She attended William Paterson Universi- “I will play a game they invented called “pioneers.” ty where she pursued a major in education. Due be able to face They spend the majority of their day pretending to the bad economy she didn’t begin teaching death when it to go out West where they settle the new frontier. immediately. Professor Hahn worked i comes,” says History has witnessed an array of nota- n publishing before she started teaching high Professor Hahn. ble women who have broken down walls and school English, and later became an adjunct at Aside explored new frontiers. Although the aforemen- her alma mater. Since then she has been teaching from reading, tioned little girl did not actually venture across for 38 years. Professor Hahn any new boundaries, like many pioneer women Professor Hahn feels that her favorite as- enjoys travel- who came before her, she has a story that both pect of teaching is her students. “I love my stu- ing, baking and inspires and resonates. dents. You just learn so much from young peo- gardening and That little girl is PCCC’s own adjunct ple.” Her advice to the students at PCCC is to can’t wait for Professor Chrystena Hahn composition professor Chrystena Hahn. Profes- “do what you love. It makes life so worthwhile.” the weather to sor Hahn― an avid reader, lover of travel, and a When facing breast cancer seven years warm so she can get to it. One of her other many breast cancer survivor―sat down and professed ago, Professor Hahn realized just how precious loves is writing. She feels that writing is a good her love of teaching while recounting some of life is. As she recounted her experience she said, way of coping with the things around her. her experiences. “I think I found myself talking to and bargaining When asked if she has ever thought about As a child, Professor Hahn spent most of with God.” Her biggest supporters during that publishing some of her work, Professor Hahn re- her days outdoors; however, her true love was time were her husband and adoptive daughter. plied, “I have published poetry, but I don’t think reading. It’s what partially influenced her to de- Her daughter used to come to the hospi- I have it in me to write a whole book.” Yet, she cide to become a teacher when she was only in tal with her and stand beside her during her ther- has considered writing about what it’s like to the third grade. apies. Professor Hahn reported that she remem- watch her mother in her old age. “I’ve never wanted to be anything else. bered thinking “How can you stand this?” Yet, The little girl from Dumont, New Jersey Although, my first ambition was to be a cow- her daughter insisted that she remain by her side. has encountered her own set of obstacles, but girl,” says Professor Hahn. One of her biggest fears was the fear of just like the original pioneers, Professor Hahn As the oldest of five, she was the first in the cancer returning. “You’re always afraid it’ll has powered through them all. Now if she can her family to go to and finish college. “Oh I was come back,” she says. Yet, the biggest take away get her daughter through college. a very good student. I had to be.” Professor Hahn from that experience was “learning how to sur- reported needing to study hard to attain scholar- vive” and to “live life as though you’re not gon- Page 8 Education April 2015 Does music really help you focus better? By Steven Almonacid The great debate goes on about whether you can focus better or concentrate while having music in her ears. The reason is because she become a distracted wreck when you have audio playing while you focus becomes completely hooked onto her songs and she often finds herself on schoolwork. Do we really believe this is a good or a bad thing? singing along and forgetting that she has some tasks at hand to finish. Quite often you hear people talk about how stressful homework Another way to think about this theory is to just look around your can be. A majority of the people doing home- surroundings when you walk around. How work choose to listen to music to ease them- many students are spotted with headphones in selves and help them concentrate through the their ears as they walk to school or are walking process of thinking. in between classes? On campus many students Sometimes this really isn’t the case have some sort of device in their ears, which considering that we all learn at a different rate. is a good thing and a bad thing. Good because For example, some students can label music as they enjoy the company of music all the time, a distraction while they work, while others find but bad again because of the fact that they it as a stress reliever to block any outside inter- would become too distracted. ference. from: www.galleryhip.com Image In an article on studentpluse.com (http:// Bryan Wdowiak, a PCCC student, has www.studentpulse.com/articles/762/the-im- explained that he can easily concentrate on his pact-of-listening-to-music-on-cognitive-per- work while listening to music. He doesn’t lis- formance) it talks about how music affects the ten to anything too intense, but he does not let cognitive performance of students. Also, they it get to him to the point where he is singing along to the entire song for- describe that students use music to escape the stressful affairs of school getting what he was doing prior to it. He also says that sometimes he views and the rigorous amounts of homework that we have to think about com- music as motivation to continue doing work instead of taking a break and pleting within a certain deadline. going on the internet. Another article on The Equinox, (http://kscequinox.com/2012/09/ According to techtimes.com, they explain that music helps you fo- studies-show-that-music-affects-your-study-habits-and-grades/) recom- cus while you study, but only if you really love the genre that you have mends that we should just stay away from music no matter how soothing playing. Also, they found that your mind triggers what is called the default it is to us. This article goes on to describe the experiment that was used on mode network if you are listening to a certain type of song that you don’t a couple of students. The conclusion was that having music in the back- mind listening to over and over again and built a very good relation with. ground impacted those students and slowed their essay typing down 60 On the other hand, sometimes having music blasting can be a huge words per minute. distraction as well. Daisy Martinez, PCCC student, says that she can’t Stop the slang! By Valerie Marcucci

“Sup” said the college student. Greetings like these are the reason move us into our future. This kind of knowledge can prepare us during why it has become a challenge to communicate efficiently. Commonly, our an interview, an explanation, or writing assignment. Although, the world community is now ‘texting out loud.’ changes rapidly one thing for sure can stay the same and that is your ac- The use of slang and icons is slowly diminishing our ability to ceptance of educating yourself. think critically and clearly. If our use of language does not change, the En- glish language could cease to exist. We encourage this change of language when abbreviating occurs beyond use of just our cellphones. Our growth with technology has limited the way we communicate with others in person. Even though our lan- guage is evolving, with proper speech we can keep the En- glish language alive and in existence. People change the language by replacing it with pop- ular or shorter meanings. We use these icons and slang in replacement of communicating our ideas and feelings. An icon or ‘emoji’ says what you are feeling without actually having to say it. The issue is that our vocabulary does not expand if you are not challenging yourself. We replace intel- lectual words with pictures or shortened words. Therefore, it becomes important that instead of using icons we can instead write out what we mean. Theresa Palumbo, a PCCC developmental English professor, said that it is “Extremely important in an English class. We are teaching the English language; therefore, gram- matical rules must be in place and followed. If this were a math class, my answer would be different.” Dr. Christine Waldeyer, a PCCC creative writing pro- fessor, mentions how it is “pretty often that I have to bring ONE NIGHT A WEEK, ONE CLASS AT A TIME, IN LESS THAN TWO YEARS! it to their attention” when it comes to abbreviating or using slang in writing. Surprisingly, she mentions that “the big- FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE FOR THOSE WHO QUALIFY gest problem is when I get emails, responses like ‘Hey You, What’s up with my grade’”. $6,500 IN TUITION GRANTS AVAILABLE A PCCC nursing student, Bheymar Gamarra, admit- AND ADDITIONAL SCHOLARSHIPS ted “I do rely on my phone for words I do not know how to ACCREDITED BY THE MIDDLE STATES spell out. It is just easier to check with my phone to make COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION sure I am using it correctly.” Gamarra also mentioned that, “Students use their phones for most of the class, it really does consume and take away from our knowledge.” Even though slang has been used for decades, there is a way to use it properly so that it does not interfere in your knowledge. Just limiting the use of slang in our language, writing, and texting can brighten our vocabulary. You will be astonished about all the words you can be exposed to and start to use in communicating. Not only will this benefit us as students but it will Page 9 Communications/Journalism News April 2015 New journalism program at PCCC By Diane Ortega In Fall 2015, there will be a revised jour- The new program is housed within the like be on a nalism program that will focus on journalistic Liberal Arts Degree and you would do a concen- news team. writing. This program was created by Dr. Chris- tration in five courses. There are two introduc- tine Redman-Waldeyer, who is a professor in tory level writing courses, an advanced course, Dr. Red-

Passaic County Community College. a creative writing course, and a communication man-Waldey- Press Asbury Park Robert Ward, This program will open many doors for future course that educates students on ethical issues. er loves the journalism students that want to achieve their Dr. Redman-Waldeyer wants students to fact that she is dream as reporters, bloggers, or anchors. know that this program starts with the basic ob- able to teach Dr. Redman-Waldeyer’s goals for this jectives like the inverted pyramid. That helps this new pro- new program are to train students for print, on- ensure that opinion isn’t part of reporting, but as gram. She line, or news television. The previous program they progress in the sequence of the courses they enjoys when just had one writing course; however, this pro- go into the direction of editorials and become students are gram will have two additional courses. It will more creative with their journalistic writing. excited about allow students to fine tune in their writing tech- This program is not just for students that writing. She Dr. Christine Redman niques and dive into ethical dilemmas that writ- want to major in journalism, however. Many truly wants Waldeyer ers face online and for print. students have different motives that make them what’s best for her students. Dr. Redman-Waldeyer didn’t really face want to join this program. Many students have She would like students to know this any obstacles while making this new program. different ideas for their writing such as freelanc- program is a start, but do your homework; see Actually, the English department supported the ing and starting a blog. what 4-year schools you would like to transfer move to ensure that they are current with career The requirement for this program are that the to. Consider taking part in the opportunities on trends. This program will help many students student has to complete a college-level writing PCCC’s campus and get involved. By doing so, who are interested in a career in writing. course. This foundation is critical to understand- students will come out of their shells and start to Dr. Redman-Waldeyer recently did a ing persuasive writing and the need for evidence. do what they love to do. journalism program review for another com- It also helps the students gain better writing skills For additional information, contact Dr. munity college. She was able to get feedback that will help them later in life. Redman-Waldeyer via email credman-waldey- from students, constituents, faculty, and admin- This New Journalism program will put a [email protected]. She would be more istration. She noticed that journalism students degree behind your name, and is the first step to than delighted to answer any questions or tell all have different ideas—some are interested in becoming a reporter. Those hiring want to see you more about this program. This program will traveling, while others want to start their own credentials and a portfolio. Students could also help get your foot in the door if you want to start news team and gain good writing skills for their join the newspaper team at the PCCC that will your career as future writer, reporter, or blogger. resume. give them firsthand experience to learn what it’s Communicating big plans for the future: Professor Walter Behr By Aspen Thompson When asked why he chose communications as his career path, Pro- Professor Behr not fessor Walter Behr said, “even as a young child I would look at anything only teaches all communica- and ask how was it shot? What was the lighting like? Why’d they choose tions courses here at Passaic the camera angles they chose?” Communications and media has always County Community College been a passion of the 20 plus year industry vet. but he is also the Coordinator of the Communications op- ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT HONORS ARCHITECTURE tion at the school. TECHNOLOGY DESIGN Professor Behr got his MATHEMATICS STEM COMPUTING start in the communications business after he graduated from Rockland Community College with an Associates Ready To Transfer? Degree in Media Technolo- gy. From there he attended Think NJIT Pace University where he re- ceived his Bachelors degree • Offers Degrees in the Hottest Fields in Communications. Four Professor Walter Behr and a half years later he acquired his Master’s degree. • Transferring is Easy - seamless credit transfer, junior Soon after, Professor Behr began working for a small production standing with an Associate’s Degree, advising support distribution company that gave him his initial experience in the industry. • Access to high paying internship and co-op programs After about a year of working for this company it went out of busi- ness. Professor Behr turned this unfortunate event into a business idea. • Connect to over 22,800 job postings through He decided to contact the clients who were now in need of a distribution Career Development Services company and signed agreements to represent them and created his own distribution company. For the past 20 plus years he has been developing programming for networks. This is Professor Behr’s second year teaching at this college but in Take the Next Step that short amount of time he has done so much for the betterment of the JOIN US FOR program. Prior to his arrival at PCCC, the communications program did Instant Decision Day - njit.edu/transfer OR not offer courses to students where they could receive hands on training Apply Now - njit.edu/apply from professionals. The programs courses were all theoretical and did not give students a chance to learn all aspects of the industry. Questions? Call 800-925-NJIT Students now can find themselves doing documentaries, news sto- ries, and much more. Professor Behr has many goals for the Communications program. He hopes to get more students interested by advancing its technology and resources. He is in the process of building an equipment base, finishing a Office of University Admissions, University Heights, Newark, New Jersey 07102-1982 studio and increasing editing capacity. The studio he is working on is in its end stages of completion. The studio will be able to produce a multi-camera ALWAYS ON in studio program, such as a news broadcast or (Continues on page 12) Transfer Ad 5 x 7” Page 10 Arts/Opinion April 2015 Are movie remakes poisoning the movie industry? PCCC students and faculty voice their opinion on Hollywood’s latest trend. By Thomas McKernan I remember coming home one night with character or “enhancements” to the story, a fan makes is “Today’s directors have a wide range the movie “Maleficent” in hand and feeling rath- will likely find something bad to say. of possibilities that influence the final product. er optimistic that one of the greatest villains of Prof. Mark A. Tambone, PCCC Creative Yesterday’s directors had to work with what that all time got her own movie remake. I was not Writing Professor, finds this to be prominent had to make a better film.” very taken from the start and it ended with my within horror movie remakes. “Bad remakes Ms. Smith believes that although an orig- father and I groaning in disappointment. The for me are mostly horror films. The remakes are inal film can be considered classic and perfect in movie butchered the classic movie and also ru- never as frightening. They push the horror too every way, she believes there is one avenue that ined a great villain. far and forget the suspense,” Prof. Tambone said. past works will never match up to what a remake On the other hand the remake of Cin- Although a remake does imply the direc- can do and that’s the improvement of animation derella got positive reviews from many and introduction to CGI. including Rotten Tomatoes and New York Although not a fan of remakes, Ms. Times but people suggest that it did little to Smith does believe that animation of today improve or enhance the classic Disney tale. has gotten so advanced that one can take ad- This begs several questions. Are remakes vantage of the possibilities of cartoon ani- good or bad? Do they do any positives for mation with their use of colors, and ability today’s movie industry? And most impor- to make the impossible possible. tantly what does PCCC think about movie With animated characters the animators remakes?! can do everything they have to do to make According to Merrian-Webster, to a believable reimagining of the character. A remake is “to make a new or different ver- film Ms. Smith would like to see reimagined sion.” To remake something can be folly to is William Friedkin’s “The French Connec- many critics’ eyes whether that critic is the tion.” average PCCC student or a renowned critic. One thing remakes have going for them When a movie remake based on Disney’s is when they reimagine certain works such Sleeping Beauty gets within earshot, some as William Shakespeare’s plays. Many will will curse the director for remaking an al- argue that recent modern remakes of his fa- ready great, classic tale of good vs. evil. tor bring something new to the formula, the most mous plays help bridge a gap between people Andrew Campbell 20, Sociology, be- important thing about a remake is that it is based who don’t understand and those who want the lieves remakes to be blasphemous in that some- on the original source material. If the director genius to be shared with all generations. thing already good doesn’t warrant change. He doesn’t do this than he/she is going to make a lot Movies such as O, The Lion King, and believes nothing can beat the original and should of fans angry and therefore loss profit. Romeo Must Die help simplify a language just be left alone. To many fans this mistake is made with- spoken that we modern people can’t figure out Although making money has always in most remakes. Sometimes the revision goes without an English class. Brenda Florex 18, Hu- been the “master plan” in any business, many too far and changes aspects of the original source man Services, believes this to be important for harp on Hollywood for not promoting new orig- material that it hurts the film. An example of this younger people. “Remakes are younger viewer’s inal ideas. Introducing something new can be is seen most prominently in Neil LaBute’s Wick- first experience with some movies” Ms. Florex risky in that it isn’t as likely to attract a wider er Man. said. audience and therefore wouldn’t make as much Wicker Man features Nicolas Cage in a It would be harder for a younger gener- money. Remaking something already successful remake of a British classic film from 1973. The ation to understand the content from a time they is a much smarter investment because it pulls al- original had a chilling and mysterious atmo- have no experience with. ready existing fans in and is more likely to pull sphere while the remake was so over the top in It’ll always be debated but fact of the the general audience along. how serious it took itself it came out as hilari- matter is remakes exist for both good and bad But can this be excused for making so ous. Plot points were changed, directing attitude reasons. They may turn out terrible 97% of the many remakes that it over satirizes the movie changed, and Nicolas Cage was about as subtle time but they do help younger people discover listings? It certainly doesn’t help that a lot of as Superman standing next to an ant. something old while keeping it simple. these remakes pale in comparison to their older Andrea Smith, PCCC Fitness Center Co- counterparts. Whether the reason is a change in ordinator, believes the biggest failure today’s re- Shallow lives in the closet; Fighting for basic human rights outside By Darien Gabriel-Jones Expressing oneself is generally looked highly upon. Sometimes People avoid these topics because ‘there are too many letters to people want to be loud and act bizarre or even have wildly colored hair. keep track of’, which is why a term gaining force in the community is But for some reason when someone is trying to express how they Gender/Sexual Minorities. Short and easy to remember that there’s still an feel about sexual or gender identity, people treat that as the elephant in the equality gap. room. No one has the answers to these questions since teens questioning Identifying words and identifying people are two different things their identity have a rough time navigating such a heteronormative world. which can be impossible to people who were not taught this in high school I have asked 10 men and 10 women around the age of 19 through health class. 22 if they can identify what the letters in LGBT stand for and only 4 of the The spectrum of sexual and gender identity is vast and some re- men could and 7 of the women could. main unseen to people, somewhat like the colors of the rainbow people cannot see. One thing to note is Sexual and Romantic orientation don’t have to be the same. Someone can be sexually attracted to members of the same sex and be romantically attracted to the opposite sex. There are people who like boys and girls, people who will only like another person based on an emotional connection and people who aren’t sexually attracted to anyone. Bisexuality, Demisexuality and Asexuality exist and there are many more sexualities and identities that fall in the spectrum. Not every- one falls into such specific categories. It’s very common to see straight men demonizing gay men while forcing themselves upon lesbian women and un- Image from: www.villaexperiencemexico.com fortunately a majority of them can’t understand (Continues on page 11) Page 11 Opinion April 2015 Plagiarism and inaccuracy in journalism: Should it be tolerated? Journalism ethics 101 By Albert Bustos

In February, NBC’s anchorman for NBC Nightly News, Brian Wil- perience involving the helicopter and R.P.G. liams shocked millions of viewers when he admitted to fabricating exag- Some people are questioning whether he will ever be back. They gerated details of his reporting. A slew of harsh criticism followed Mr. say six months is a long time and things will just not be the same; he may Williams and prompted the question of plagiarism in journalism. never return to his NBC Nightly News anchor chair. They say how can he According to Writing and Reporting: Coaching Method 6th Edi- ever tell the news with a straight face? tion by Carole Rich, credibility, truth, accuracy, fairness, are all valuable Bound by the terms of his contract, he isn’t allowed to speak with- ethics when storytelling in journalism. out the network’s approval. They don’t know what other lies he has told. Depending on what type Another account from Wil- of writing, the rules of credibility liams that is under scrutiny is the and telling the truth can be bent night the Berlin Wall came down and can even be broken. For ex- on November 9, 1989. During a ample fictional or creative -writ 2008 forum at the Ronald Regan ing is something the author cre- Presidential Library, Williams said, ates through his/her imagination. “I was at the Brandenburg Gate the Readers who want to read this night the wall came down.” particular genre of writing, a sto- An NBC News source in a ry’s accuracy and truth-telling is position to know confirmed to CN- irrelevant. NMoney that, “Brian arrived the When it comes to news, day after the wall came down.” readers and viewers don’t want Dozens of residents from Wil- make-believe stories or inaccu- liams’ hometown in Elmira, up- rate information. In news, society state NY are demanding a tribute expects and relies on nothing but sign with Williams’ image on it to the truth in the: who, what, when, be torn down. where and why. Fabrications in news have Williams is said to be seen always existed. New York Times by more U.S. television viewers reporter Jayson Blair was discov- on a daily basis than any other ered in 2003 to have fabricated and individual. He started at NBC in plagiarized elements of dozens of 1993 and in 2004 he took over as stories. anchor and managing editor of For a list of the five most Depiction of Brian Williams as Pinocchio by Albert Bustos NBC Nightly News. famous plagiarist visit: www.pla- Mr. Williams strengthened giarismtoday.com/2012/08/21/5- the broadcast position as the most-watched newscast in all of television. famous-plagiarists-where-are-they-now/. He has won numerous awards including twelve Emmy Awards. In www.spj.org/ethicscode.asp the (Society of Professional Jour- At a New York Rangers game, a tribute to a retiring Command nalists)’s first principle stated in their list of Code of Ethics is: “Seek the Sergeant Major, Williams told his newscast that the sergeant had protected truth and report it. Ethical journalism should be accurate and fair. Journal- him from a dangerous situation in Iraq that occurred in 2003. ists should be honest and courageous in gathering, reporting and interpret- Williams said, “The helicopter we were traveling in was forced ing information.” down after being hit by an R.P.G.,” referring to a rocket-propelled grenade. It goes on to say, “Journalists should: take responsibility for the “Our traveling NBC News team was rescued, surrounded and kept alive accuracy of their work. Verify information before releasing it. Use original by an armor-mechanized platoon from the U.S. Army Third Infantry,” he sources whenever possible.” said. Most people agree that the person in position to inform should A military publication called Stars and Stripes was tipped off that provide accurate information and not add inaccurate details just to make William’s account was inaccurate. Williams was contacted, and admitted themselves worthy of glorification. Society relies on individuals like Wil- he was not on the helicopter that was forced down. What followed was an liams to inform the public of actual facts. avalanche of criticism directed toward Williams and the question of what Everybody lies at sometime in their life whether the lies are big or to do about it. small, but people in the position of Williams have a big responsibility to NBC suspended Williams for six months without pay and launched the millions of viewers to report the facts and not taint the facts with lies an internal investigation on Williams. Everything from his accounts over here and there just to make yourself look good. the years including his reporting and his public appearances are being Sometimes lies will come back to bite you in the butt and that’s no probed. One such appearance is when Williams was a guest on the David lie. Letterman show back in 2013 where he spoke of his exaggerated Iraq ex- Shallow lives in the closet (Continued from page 10) the word ‘no.’ knew if he was gay but that shouldn’t have mattered since he liked being Just because a man tells another man he’s gay doesn’t mean he’s part of that team. attracted to them. This leads to many people thinking homophobia is just According to the suicide statistics page on the Trevor Project web- straight men being afraid of another man treating them the way they treat site, bullying increases the likelihood of self-harming. At what point does women. bullying become harassment? What happens to the boy in high school who gets beat up for not There are too many questions that people experiencing an identity fitting the mold of masculinity? What happens to the girls who face social crisis ask themselves and even more questions that have to be left unan- ridicule from their peers for their short haircut? swered when a teen takes their life. Are any of these important once their parent is shopping for a tomb- stone? What do they tell the rest of their family and their child’s friends once it’s too late? Suicide is the leading cause of death in the age group of 10 to 24. There are kids who are killing themselves because everyone stifles, ridi- cules and torments them for who they are. Ronin Shimizu, 12 years old, committed suicide from being bul- lied for being the only boy on the cheerleading team in his school. No one Image from: www.rocklandtimes.com Page 12 Letters from the Editors April 2015

Save the date for THE nd ANNUAL ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP REUNION 2 CEREMONY Date: Thank you for joining us last year for the PCCC September 18th, 2015 First Reunion Scholarship Dinner. Your Alumni Board is diligently working hard to bring you a Time: bigger and better reunion this year! 6-9:30 pm

Location: We had a blast with a wonderful fun crowd To be determined last year and we are looking forward to another fun Reunion.

Contact: More information coming soon. Sadia-adu Phillips Coordinator of Alumni Affairs Passaic County Community College CO MM T Y U N N U I T O Y One College Boulevard, Room

C C

O C E101, Paterson, NJ 07505 I

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A L

E S G

S P. 973.684.5603

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P Email: [email protected]

Attention ALL PCCC STUDENTS, our college newspaper is looking for reporters, writers, editors, ad managers, cartoonists, photographers and graphic designers. Visions has their open meetings during student activity hour in room E112 at 1:30 p.m. Thursdays. For more information contact Visions at [email protected]. Communication with Professor Behr (Continued from page 9) talk show. Besides having goals for the program Professor Behr also has goals for his students. He says, “my ob- jective is to have my students become as proficient as possible” in their time being at PCCC. He wants all of his students to know the concepts of video, field and studio production. Because Professor Behr is still working in the industry he sees this as an advantage for the students. He believes students taking the nonproduction courses will receive a clear and up to date view of media. Students taking his production courses will receive real profes- sional information and advice considering he does this in his every day life. Professor Behr’s curriculum consists mainly of 5 communications courses – those being Intro to Mass Media, Legal and Ethical Issues in Media, Foundations of Media design, Video Production and Intro to digital multimedia. During these courses students get the chance to discuss all of the different media, and their impact on society today. Anyone taking these courses also get hands on experience in video, audio and graphic design. Students in the later production courses get experience with handling cameras and getting footage. Learning how to light a set, and edit work is also a large part of the curriculum. Professor Behr is excited for what the future holds. He has many plans that will contribute to the ad- vancement of this degree program. Page 13 Writing Contest April 2015 College Writing Committee’s First Student Writing Contest College Writing Committee announces winners College-level students at PCCC were eligible to take part in an reflective and even a little research-oriented. Academic Writing Contest that was announced late spring 2014. Many The underlying rationale for holding the contest was to generate instructors promoted the contest in their classes, with some offering extra real enthusiasm among the students for writing and to help them gain credit to students who participated. insights into how inspiring and fun the activity of writing can be. The This was very exciting for the Committee because they usually committee hopes to sponsor another writing contest again, perhaps for the work with faculty and adjuncts in assisting with the incorporation of writ- 2015-2016 academic year. Students were eligible to win $100 for first ing within all majors and courses. The committee also helps formulate prize, $50 for second prize, and $25 for third prize. questions for the CWE as well score the essays. Students were asked to send in their 1,000 word essays following The contest gave the committee the opportunity to work directly MLA formatting responding to a writing prompt that encouraged students with students. The writing prompt required that the student be creative, to reflect and forecast changes in their field of study. Untitled

By Rosemarie Barbalace, Third Place Winner from: flickr.com Image

You are absolutely divine, unique, full of purpose, and powerful. conference, he said that aside from graduations, he had never felt so much You have what it takes to master your life. You can do it! You are as strong energy in the gymnasium before, due to the high energy of the teachers. and balanced as a tree, and as adaptable and beautiful as a body of water. He explained how even though there are tons of initiatives to change and You have every tool you need to progress, transform, and ultimately live improve Paterson, it is not all good. A lot truly does need to be done, and your wildest dreams. Doesn’t that feel good to hear? Well, guess what? with graduation rates at a low, teachers truly are the hope of the city, and It is one hundred percent true, and I can prove it through evidence, expe- teachers undoubtedly have the energy, drive, commitment, creativity, and rience, and quotable research. The brain has the power to change itself; passion, to make change. But how will we grant them the opportunities to this magical ability is called neuroplasticity. According to Google, “neuro” change? means relating to nerves or the nervous system, while “plasticity” refers to This leads me to my first potential idea to bring about change in the quality of being easily shaped or molded. From a biological perspec- the field of psychology. Innovating lessons of yoga in the classroom cur- tive, the term “plasticity” is defined as the adaptability of an organism to riculum, and incorporating all three parts of the self to a child, even as changes in its environment or differences between its various habitats. Ev- young as 4 years old, will benefit the future tremendously and have so ery single person, from the most seemingly insane, ugly, worthless, people many tangible benefits for society. Kids Hub wrote an article about how you can think of, to the richest, most abundant, spiritual, individuals, have “many preschool educators are now suggesting that the best way to teach one thing in common - being. If you can consciously breathe, you are a kids is through play.” Preschool kids are right-brain dominant, after all. human being made up of life force. Somehow, someway, you have taken Also, research shows that by the age of 6, the brain is already 80 percent on the form of a creative, living, human being. Therefore, every person, developed. At this point, the left brain, also known as the logical, analyti- regardless of his or her environment, habitat, or social class, can adapt and cal, side, usually starts to become dominant. And by the age of 10, a child’s evolve into something better. And for the enormously crucial field of psy- brain is already 95 percent developed. From then on, the brain develops at chology to change, we must adapt and evolve, both as individuals and as a a much slower pace. collective whole. Therefore, if we are going to change how we educate our children, Think about it for a moment: Michael Brown, Trayvon Martin, we must begin at a young age, because the best age to learn is between the Sandy Hook Elementary school shooting, the unequal distribution of the ages of zero and ten years old. The article also concludes that learning economic resources, so many people willing to learn and succeed but un- through play is actually a useful way to train children. Not to mention, able to fully grasp either the right opportunities or their pure potentiali- learning play with constant practice will likely be developed into core hab- ty…Essentially, we live in a world of imbalances. The idea of us being its, beliefs, or mindsets. These different habits, beliefs, and mindsets may unbalanced can be proven to be true from a variety of different levels. On not seem that important, but when these children grow up, it will make all an individual level, people such as Adam Lanza, who shot Sandy Hook the world of a difference. The beliefs that are set into their brain by the age Elementary School, are undoubtedly chemically and mentally imbalanced. of 7 basically make up their universe and the way they see things for the George Zimmerman, Darren Wilson, corrupt government officials - these rest of their lives. It is time to be conscious and aware of what we put into are people with too much external power and ego, also not in balance. the brains of our children, since the children of today and tomorrow truly Some synonyms for unbalanced, according to Google, are biased, preju- are our future. diced, one-sided, inequitable, unjust, and unfair. How much prejudice and What are some examples of building the future through educating injustice do we see in our current society? There is no doubt that the social children with yoga? Let me go into my personal experience. Where I work, class system in the United States is not balanced, and with movements at 3:00 PM, the teacher I work with, who is super experienced and knows a such as Occupy Wall Street, which began September of 2011, obviously ton about lesson planning, would leave, and I would be with the remaining people are becoming aware of such shortages and lacking that comes from kids until 4 or 5 PM. My schedule has since changed, but as a new teach- universal or societal chaos and disarray. Let’s face it: we, as a people, are er’s aide with little knowledge of how to lesson plan, I borrowed a couple just not cutting it. children’s yoga books from my local library, and started reading the kids But guess what? We can adapt and evolve! This is true of every “Little Yoga” and “My Daddy is A Pretzel” books. I was truly shocked and single individual, no matter his or her circumstances. How do we do this, pleasantly excited to hear such highly spirited, excited, loving responses though? Through proper alignment, or balance. My idea of how to change from my students. They would literally beg for us to read the yoga books. the field of psychology in the next 5 years can be referred to as rather radi- One 3 year old would beg, “Can we do yoga baby now?” Another 4 year cal, but here it goes - we need to balance the three components of a human old who can barely write his name and is always getting personal attention being: mind, body, and spirit. My struggles and experiences have proven for not paying attention would randomly ask in the middle of the day if to me that there is no better way to balance the mind-body-spirit odyssey we could do “Yorger.” Another boy who is in my morning small group for than...yoga! Unfortunately, many people in this country do not fully grasp arithmetic and mathematics, is the one child who consistently struggles to the true definition of yoga. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, write his name, and he also receives personal attention weekly. Yet, after yoga is defined as a Hindu theistic philosophy teaching the suppression a month of me not showing them any yoga books, this boy will randomly of all activity of body, mind, and will in order that the self may realize its remember triangle pose, which basically is the pose that shows how you distinction from them and attain liberation. have three sides - mind, body, and spirit. Not only does he remember the From a personal perspective, I am currently a teacher’s aide in a pose, but he can do the pose perfectly, and will shout out, “Look! Triangle Pre-K-4 classroom at a preschool in Paterson; a few weeks ago, I was pose!” I remember once reading about one of the poses, and I said, “This fortunate in that I was able to attend the first annual Paterson preschool pose shows you to believe in yourself. It encourages us to feel and express conference, which was located at Passaic County Community College. our power and courage, and overcome our fears.” One girl said to herself, While the president of the college spoke to the hundreds of teachers in the “Hey! I can do that! I can believe in myself!” In my mind, these seeming- Page 14 Writing Contest April 2015 ly tiny encounters are miracles in the making. I the Tampa Bay Times explains post-traumatic son’s disabilities and “damaged goods” through truly think that just hearing books about yoga or growth and quotes William Shakespeare, “Sweet a different lens, and actually have compassion little phrases about one pose will subconsciously are the uses of adversity, which, like the toad, for who they are, not just physically, but also help them tremendously, especially in the long ugly and venomous, wears yet a precious jew- mentally and spiritually? I truly believe this is a run. The playful aspect of yoga comes naturally el on his head.” According to the article, one key that will lead to tangible benefits in society, to children, granted they have a caring teacher psychologist who studies post-traumatic growth so that the same results do not keep happening, who makes sure they are taken care of. They claims that people often report positive changes and people are not like hamsters stuck running love to play and try different poses such as frog, from trauma. They report a renewed apprecia- around their wheels in circles. Depression and cat, cow, doggy, even resting pose. tion for life, new possibilities for themselves, anxiety rates keep going up. Panic attacks are It does not just stop there. My second in- more personal strength, improved relationships, pretty common among most Americans. People novation would be to add something to the cur- and more spiritual satisfaction. Trauma does not stay out of shape and obese. Heart disease is the riculum in elementary school. The world is vast, just bring about stress and illness, it also brings number one cause of death in America. Did I and different cultures and people have provided forth resilience, growth, and healing. mention that yoga focuses on balance and a sys- us so that we have a plethora of knowledge, es- With that being said, the third initiative tem of seven chakras, or wheels of energy, in the pecially with all of society’s technological ad- I would take to change the field of psychology body? Well, the fourth chakra, also known as the vancements. The key is, we need to be willing to would be to build an alternative type of coun- centering one, is...the heart! open our minds to this new material. The law of seling and therapy, one that aims at healing the Clearly, yoga, breathing, acknowledging attraction, sacred geometry, positive psychology, “damaged” and emphasizing post-traumatic your power as a living force of being, are all things neuroplasticity - these are all concepts and ideas growth. One organization that I know of that is that matter. All of these ideas can be summed up that hold so much value, yet are unfortunately a perfect example is Kulu for Karma. Kulu for into one word...consciousness. Consciousness is overlooked, especially in America. Instead of Karma is a nonprofit organization based in the defined as the state of being awake and aware drilling students with tons of information that New York Metropolitan area; they offer free in one’s surroundings. The fourth idea I have leaves them feeling drained, frustrated, and out programs to populations that face physical and that will bring about tons of change in society is of place at school, as though what they are learn- mental health challenges. They basically use building mindfulness projects in our communi- ing is absolutely pointless, why not teach them therapeutic yoga, meditation, and breath-work to ties. Mindfulness is a mental state achieved by concepts that are universal and different? I once solve diagnoses without surgery and pharmacies. focusing your awareness on the present moment, took a class called “The Science of Happiness” On the website, there is a big section with links while acknowledging your feelings and thoughts. at New York University, in the class we were and explanations to medical research explaining Studies have shown that if one or a few spiritual given exercises such as performing small acts of yoga for cancer survivorship, treatment of addic- activists or monks become part of a city with a kindness, positive interventions, and journal- poor economy and high crime rate, the commu- ing. During the time I took this class, I felt nity actually benefits tremendously. People like a magnet for positivity, truly happy, and become more involved in the community, not as stressed as the typical college student. crime rates go down, and overall, love and This class experience completely contrasts the light are spread. A huge group called the requirement class all NYU students are forced “Mindfulness Project” exists at New York to take, “Writing the Essay.” This dreadful University, and through research, I found class had me losing weight, treating myself another mindfulness project in Europe. On and my loved ones with abuse, I even ended their website, the European mindfulness up in the hospital for suicidal ideation, simply project explains that, “This world and its because of the pressure that I put on myself to problems are created by the sum of thoughts do well in this class. This is not what school from: www.lastingpainrelief.com Image and actions of all individuals of this world. should be. The solution is only to be found, where the School and educating yourself should problem origins - In the mind of the human not leave you feeling drained. Knowledge is being: From our own practice we could ex- power! Knowledge will give us the balance perience the healing influence mindfulness that we need! Therefore, in order to change training and meditation has, the unlimited the field of psychology and gain universal potential of the human mind and how much balance, we must not only teach our chil- a community is offering a stable base. This dren simple yoga and breathing exercises. is why we want to encourage people, to find We must take it one step further and also add with us a path to the heart beyond all reli- positive universal courses to elementary and gious, social or ethical dogmas.” Currently, high school curriculums, such as sacred ge- there are many community initiatives tak- ometry, living the law of attraction, positive ing place in all different neighborhoods, psychology, and neuroplasticity, also known including Paterson. These community ini- as, how the brain can change itself. While we’re tive disorders, victims of domestic violence, and tiatives involve children, education, protecting at it, we should make introduction to psychology youth with special needs. the environment, support for immigrants…the a class that is required to take nationwide in high Through knowledge and experience, I list goes on and on. Why not build community schools. Not everyone will like it, just as not ev- know that the majority of substance abuse pro- projects and initiatives for the mind and spirit? eryone likes math or literature, but the field and grams focus on the 12-step model, and a huge Building more mindfulness projects tools of psychology are vital. The brain is im- part of that program includes connecting to a means more people engaging in wholesome re- portant, it has so much power and strength, and higher power. Yoga is one way of connecting lationships with themselves, with nature, and high school students deserve the right to know and aligning with your balanced, powerful, di- with all beings. People will be able to use their about this. vine self. If this does not resonate with you, you powerful energy to connect positively, to unite, Aside from schooling and the education do not have to believe in a God, you just have to build upon each other, collect ideas, and live to- system, we need to also embrace the importance believe in yourself, which anyone, even a 4 year gether in a compassionate and respectful com- of other initiatives that incorporate yoga and old, can do! I also think it would be better to con- munity based on wholesome thoughts and inter- meditation for people truly in need. There is one sider people in recovery as warriors, and look at actions. Here is one quote by Albert Einstein that quote that says, “Damaged people are dangerous. them through a place of light and positivity rath- sums up the vision of the European Mindfulness They know they can survive.” Why not use this er than darkness and disease. In many substance Project, “The religion of the future will be cos- potential for danger and transform it into some- abuse programs, counselors refer to patients as mic religion. It will transcend personal God and thing positive and useful to society? I’m talking people suffering from a terrible disease. Often- avoid dogma and theology.” In fact, Albert Ein- about the at-risk youth, the cancer survivors, times, many patients usually just follow the rules stein was a huge believer in quantum physics. the prisoners, the veterans, the caregivers, the and do what they can to get by with minimal ef- Quantum physics can be explained through the teenagers and adults in recovery, the victims of fort. Unfortunately, this usually can bring about law of attraction, and sacred geometry, which domestic violence, the adults and the youth will a string of relapses followed by periods of sobri- explains the relationships between the laws of special needs...They all matter, because like I ety in which many of the people recovering refer geometry and the quantum mechanical laws of said earlier, they are also beings. In fact, the field to sobriety as something “that sucks.” Doctors the universe. As I mentioned in my second idea of positive psychology emphasizes post-trau- are super quick to prescribe drugs such as Sub- for change, sacred geometry and the law of at- matic growth. This is about how after dealing oxone for opiate addicts, why not write out pre- traction are two subjects that should be included with highly challenging life circumstances, those scriptions for deep-breathing twenty minutes a in the education system for all students. Why not who have struggled can go through positive psy- day, moderate exercise, and therapeutic yoga? A teach students what Albert Einstein taught us? chological change. They can undergo important disgusting amount of money in America goes to- In conclusion, putting yoga into the cur- “life-changing” shifts in their minds about how wards drugs, pharmacies, and basically treating riculum for early childhood educators, then in- to think and relate to the world. One article by Americans like robots. Why not address a per- corporating different courses such as living the Page 15 Writing Contest April 2015 law of attraction, sacred geometry, and positive psychology into elemen- mini Einsteins. Here is one last quote by Albert Einstein, “Everybody is a tary and high schools, followed by building and supporting more therapy genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree it will live its programs such as Kulu for Karma, which highlight post-traumatic-growth whole life believing that it is stupid.” This terrible mistake that he points through meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises, and finally building out is precisely what society is doing in the education, psychology, even Mindfulness Projects in our communities are the four initiatives that I economic systems. We build a few narrow paths and expect everyone to wholeheartedly believe will change the current field of psychology and just get by that way and do what has been done in the past, in an imbal- education while providing unbelievable benefits for individuals and soci- anced, flawed society. Well, why not try something different? Why not ety as a whole. Again, all this may sound like new age nonsense, but really, have kids and adults alike excited to learn and play? Instead of judging a one of the only people in history who truly highlighted the importance fish by its ability to climb a tree, let us all do fish pose, then tree pose, then of consciousness and energy, was Albert Einstein, a true visionary and triangle pose, and find out what suits you better, what makes you, you, and genius to the fullest extent. He once said, “Imagination is more important how are you going to live your pure potentiality? that knowledge. For knowledge is limited, whereas imagination embraces the entire world, stimulating progress, giving birth to evolution.” Albert Einstein was a pretty smart man, was he not? Well, we can all be little Al- bert Einsteins, in our own ways. We can be baby yogis, tiny Buddhas, and Advances in the Treatment of Addictions By Ohna Fagan, Second Place Winner

The way we treat substance abuse has dressing substance use and physi- come a long way since it first came about in the cal health together improves both 1800’s. In fact, Addiction used to be considered conditions for an overall better a moral deficiency instead of a disease. “Addic- quality of life yet, 54% of addic- tion treatment was everything you saw in horror tion treatment programs have no movies back in the day. This famous addiction physician (SAMHSA). Providing treatment, “discovered” by demagogue and Civ- on-site medical services opposed il War surgeon Leslie Keeley in 1879, involved to a referral would improve recov- daily injections and oral medication, as well as ery outcomes and better the qual- a 31-day stay in a treatment center that empha- ity of life for many of those with sized healthy food, exercise and fresh air. While substance abuse–related medical the treatment center stay was reasonable enough, conditions. Medical issues are the injections and “tonics” were extremely dan- only one factor as addiction al- gerous.” (Palm Partners). The lacking knowl- most always goes hand-in-hand edge of Addiction landed addicts in hospitals, with mental illness. It would also psychiatric wards, and sanitariums which were be beneficial to provide services to hotbeds of medical experimentation. Today there those who are non-dependent but is still much to learn about the disease but in re- at-risk individuals as a prevention cent years the field has begun to expand rapidly measure. It is inevitable that pro- due to the epidemic currently plaguing our na- fessionals will have to work in a tion. The future of addiction treatment will be larger, more integrated system. vaccinations, integrated treatment of medical The healthcare system will be able and psychological issues, and electroconvulsive to provide some of these services therapy. but professionals will also need Scientists have been working to develop to receive continued education- vaccines for drug addiction since the early 1990s al training in mental health and Ohna Fagan, 2nd place winner which are currently in clinical trials. The vaccine other areas. I predict there will be many more stigma associated with being labeled an ‘addict’. causes the immune system to send out antibodies treatment facilities and these programs will offer Also, tobacco has been added to the list of sub- that bind to the drug molecules and neutralize more abundant and integrated services. This will stances in the new version of manual and in the them before they cross the Blood Brain Barrier. also allow us to treat more people than ever be- future will be integrated into treatment services. Communal drug molecules are not large enough fore because let’s face it; many people walk into Lastly, the introduction of ICD-10 codes used to or complex enough to stimulate the immune sys- a coffin before they walk in to treatment. describe a condition instead of ICD-9 codes. The tem adequately on their own. Additionally, in Additionally, Electroconvulsive therapy development of new conditions and new treat- the near future we should see implantable for- is currently used for treatment of illnesses like ments has been rapid and the ICD-9 codes were mulation of the partial agonist Buprenorphine depression and is being experimented with in the not designed to transform with these changes. and antagonist Naltrexone. These implants will treatment of the addicted brain. Shock-therapy ICD-10 codes are a combination of diagnoses’ deliver a constant dose of the medication for up has a bad stigma but in reality it is nothing like and symptoms which allow for fewer codes to to six months, an idea that is comparable to the it is portrayed to be in movies like “One Flew have to be used. Implanon/Explanon form of birth control. Simi- Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” released in 1975 and In conclusion, the approach to the treat- larly, medications like these are also in the works research shows it is actually quite effective. ment of Addictions has come far over the de- for use in the treatment of other substances like Research shows that about 10 to 20 percent of cades and finding out all we can about this dis- cocaine and even marijuana. These implants will depressed people respond to no drug at all (Dis- ease is becoming more and more of a priority in reduce the potential of abuse and sale of the med- cover magazine). Shock therapy is not used as a America. In the future I see addiction treatment ication and reduce the chance of relapse. It will form of aversion therapy but instead to provide a taking on a substantially more medical approach also save patients from making frequent, costly “jump-start” to parts of the brain that have a defi- opposed to the more holistic approaches. It will and time consuming trips to their Suboxone doc- cit. In an addict the use of the prefrontal cortex be extremely beneficial that we overcome some tor. I personally have been guilty of abusing and is greatly diminished; this is the part of the brain of the barriers with maintenance medications, distributing these medications but with the im- responsible for decision making. This debunks mental/physical illness, and cognitive deficien- plant this is not possible. We can then focus on the stigma that Addicts suffer from a “moral de- cies and make these the first steps in treatment making the behavioral changes that are critical ficiency” and explains why substance abusers because it is a long and difficult process to build to our recovery. There are many medications for continue to abuse drugs despite the significant the coping-skills necessary to live life on life’s the treatment of opiate and alcohol dependence negative consequences; the drug alters the user’s terms and remain drug-free. Drugs, gambling, so it appears promising that in the future we will brain chemistry. When we activate the prefrontal sex, etc. are only symptoms of the disease of ad- also be able to treat a wider range of substances cortex the user will better be able to make good diction so we have to treat every aspect. I think such a marijuana or cocaine and have the vacci- judgment when presented with the stimulus (the these advancements could lead to a much high- nations for those whom are at-risk of becoming drug). er success rate which will also mean a reduction dependent. Moreover, with the release of the DSM-V in both overdose and crime rates. In turn, jails Furthermore, the three aspects of treating in 2013 professionals will soon be required to will be less crowded by non-violent offenders substance-use disorders are to address medical, adapt to the changes made from the DSM-IV- and people on maintenance will be able to live psychological and social issues. Substance-use TR. The DSM no longer distinguishes between normal and productive lives with little inconve- disorders are often accompanied by physical substance abuse and dependence but provides nience. health problems such as HIV, hepatitis, and cir- criteria for what is now called substance-use dis- rhosis of the liver. Evidence also suggests that ad- order. The purpose behind this is to remove the Page 16 Writing Contest April 2015 Boto, ‘Boto, Mr. Roboto By Crystal Goodrow, First Place Winner

As Maya Angelou once put it, “They may be a great modern asset, aiding in the produc- on top of the latest technology, and how to use forget your name, but they will never forget the tion of accurate diagnostics and medical treat- it. If somebody in the medical profession today way you made them feel.” Nursing is defined as ments. Growing up watching The Jetsons, one were frozen and thawed out twenty years from a health care profession providing physical and would have anticipated a world in 2014 in which now, they would not be able to practice medi- emotional care in all individuals. All human be- flying cars and robots were the norm. We may cine. That individual’s knowledge would be al- ings fall ill. They give birth, they have most obsolete. Robots can be used to surgery, they grow old. For most peo- take care of the elderly, provide com- ple, when they took their first breath, a panionship, and have more knowledge nurse was there, providing gentle care. than a team of ten doctors. That is a As their bodies age, and their health technology worth staying on top of. fades, most people will have nurses Genetic testing is a wonderful by their sides. That will never change. way of producing accurate diagnostics, More than 2.9 million registered nurs- opening doors of hope to millions of es reside in the United States, and yet, people. Cancer.org describes, “Genetic the projected growth rate of employ- testing is the process of using medical ment is 19% by 2022, according to tests to look for changes (mutations) myfuture.com. What began as people in a person’s genes or chromosomes. wanting to help their fellow man has Hundreds of different genetic tests are turned into one of the most respected used today, and more are being de- medical professions today. Almost ev- veloped.” One no longer has to wring erything in nursing has become com- their hands anxiously at the thought of puterized now. One could argue that hearing the words, “You have cancer.” one of the biggest changes in nursing There are ways to proactively identify is the rise of new technology, such whether or not one is a carrier of certain as 3-D printing, robotics, and genetic gene mutations. For example, women testing that aid in producing accurate may now see their risk for breast can- diagnostics and medical treatments. cer. We have all heard the tragic stories One of technology’s hottest of those that waited too long to go to commodities today is 3-D printing, the doctor, and then found out that they which will change health care as we had stage four cancer. Had they found know it. Also known as “additive out sooner, they would have survived. manufacturing”, The Online Journal Genetic testing can eliminate needless of Nursing states that, “3-D printing deaths, by helping doctors to predict is a method of building objects layer our risks well in advance. Some wom- by layer, fusing each cross section of en have begun having their breasts re- molecules until a complete object is moved upon finding themselves at a formed”. In other words, 3-D printing, high risk for breast cancer. While this Crystal Goodrow, 1st place winner pictured with now capable of creating realistic replace- may seem a bit radical, it is certainly Professor Geoffrey Kenmuir, English Faculty ments of bones, will one day be able to good to know so that precautions may “bioprint” human organs (Nursing World). Most not be gliding through clouds in our cars yet, be taken. Such findings may help people to live a of the hearing aids created in 2014 are created but robots have been erupting onto the medical healthier lifestyle. via 3-D printing. This is just the beginning of an scene. According to CNN’s Heather Kelly, there Time does fly by quickly, and with each enormous industry. With all of the capabilities is a robot called P37 565 that is being used in passing day, we learn more and more. Cures for of 3-D printing, nursing will be completely rein- Japanese nursing homes. The P37 565 “provides diseases are found, innovations are created, and vented. It has already come a long way from its companionship and monitors patients” (What’s new doors open up in the medical field. The tools Parobolani days in 300 A.D. Next). This means that, with the increasing el- that nurses use may advance significantly, but no The use of 3-D printing may scare those derly population, doctors can care for many pa- amount of technology can replace the warmth of that are afraid of change, but the potential to tients in their homes, and also alleviate loneli- a nurse’s hand. Nothing can be invented that can live longer lives is greater than ever before. In ness. Researchers at Harvard University have touch somebody like a genuine smile. Tangible the future, people will no longer have to lose a “created the first brain-to-brain interface that al- compassion can be imitated, but it cannot be du- loved one due to waiting too long for an organ lowed a human to control a rat’s tail, and another plicated. So though we may begin to venture into transplant. 3D printing will save an abundance human’s movements, with his mind, proving that working side by side with robots, and our hand- of lives. Before we had cars and planes, people controlled robotic limbs have far-reaching possi- held devices may replace the more simple tools were afraid of what that meant for them. Now bilities for patients” (Farman). One could imag- of yesterday, heart is what makes a nurse. Com- we depend on these modes of transportation on ine that this kind of development could change passion, empathy, love for all mankind; let us not Reception and Award Ceremony: a daily basis. It would be hard to imagine the the quality of life for a lot of people. change these, for love is a medicine in itself. modern world without them. With the introduction of new ursday, technology April 30th, 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm Medical robots, like 3D printing, will like robotics, nurses would be requiredBroadway to stay Gallery (by the cafeteria) April 30 - May 22, 2015

EXHIBITING ARTISTS: Rubi Acosta Cesar Marquez Callie Schultz Stephanie Angeles Monushra Miah Samantha Seliko Jannelly Brito Alberto Ortiz Crystal Sotelo Albert Bustos Ashley Pezzuti Zoila Sotil Inoris Esquea Jair Quijano Pierson Ubinas Reception and Award Ceremony: Naomi Gamorra Jade Ramos Victoria Vulcano ursday, April 30th, 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm Elizabeth Gonzalez Fabian Rodriguez Shannon Walker Broadway Gallery (by the cafeteria) Miguel De Jesus Marcos Salazar O’Shane Williams April 30 - May 22, 2015 omas Kafaan Denise Schenk Deirdre Wexler Graphic Design & Fine Arts Club By Albert Bustos EXHIBITING ARTISTS: Rubi Acosta Cesar Marquez Callie Schultz Stephanie Angeles Monushra Miah Samantha Seliko Jannelly Brito Alberto Ortiz Crystal Sotelo Albert Bustos Ashley Pezzuti Zoila Sotil Inoris Esquea Jair Quijano Pierson Ubinas Naomi Gamorra Jade Ramos Victoria Vulcano Elizabeth Gonzalez Fabian Rodriguez Shannon Walker Miguel De Jesus Marcos Salazar O’Shane Williams omas Kafaan Denise Schenk Deirdre Wexler Graphic Design & Fine Arts Club By Albert Bustos