Marymount Manhattan College’s Student Newspaper Volume 20, Issue 6 December 11, 2017 Republicans go for big with new tax bill

Photo from seattletimes.com

By Sara Murphy $11 million will be taxed, instead of potential decrease in business could in our country today. This bill is ob- the limit of $5.5 million currently. hurt working class Americans. viously partisan, aimed at the Re- Staff Writer Other industries such as real estate The new bill is expected to raise publican party and its supporters, Early on Saturday, December investment trusts, gas and oil oper- the deficit by one trillion dollars and passed on party support. Aside 2, the Republican tax bill passed ators, and car dealerships will also over the next ten years, contradict- from the single Republican senator in the Senate, getting the 51-49 benefit from new, lower rates, or ing the claim by Republicans that who voted “Nay,” the vote was split vote it needed. The bill passed de- other exemptions in this new plan. the bill would pay for itself. The directly down party lines. Even spite having no Democratic sup- Along with other benefits to gas main argument for this bill was that though this tax plan is supposed to port and a negative vote from Ten- and oil operators, the bill also al- it would grow the economy, but if boost the economy, and therefore nessee Republican Senator Bob lows oil drilling in a section of the tax cuts are being given to the rich, benefit all of the American people, it Corker. The bill is a major win for Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in the bill is encouraging multination- is quite obvious that we are divided Republicans, but has faced a very Alaska. This is a turn away from al companies to go offshore, will and in opposition with each other. convoluted path filled with many green energy, encouraging fossil this really have the intended effect? Even then, we still haven’t seen revisions to reach this point. The fuel companies, and is a loss for Not only that, but if the bill was the finished version of this bill final legislation was being written conservationists. Alaska’s indige- edited on the very night of the vote, quite yet. The Republican tax bill on the night of the passing, re- nous people could also be harmed then we can’t truly know if those has now passed in both the House leased only shortly before the vote. by this increased oil drilling. who voted were even fully knowl- of Representatives and the Senate, The new bill cuts taxes for a va- The bill encourages multina- edgeable of what they were voting but the Republican party still has riety of developers, industries, and tional companies and banks to go for. Some lobbyists even received to now reconcile the two different the top one percent. This bracket offshore or invest in offshore sub- copies of revisions of the bill be- versions of the bill passed in ei- is being taxed at a rate of 29.6 per- sides. Companies that go offshore fore Democratic senators. Was ther house into one cohesive bill. cent, a full 10-percent drop from the may pay less on profits not earned this really an informed decision More edits may be yet to come, current 39.6 percent. The estate tax in the United States. This encour- on the behalf of our legislators? meaning we may still not be see- has also been decreased, meaning ages business to be taken overseas, This bill and all it stands for only ing the plan in its final form that that now only inheritances of over away from the United States. This emphasizes the party divide visible will overhaul our tax system.

Inside this issue... Learn to shop Net Neutrality Mosque attacks in smart page 5 pages 6 and 7 Egypt page 9 Page 2 MMC’s The Monitor Letter from the Editor-in-Chief

Thank you so much for taking the time to reading the final issue of the semester. With final exams and projects on everyone’s mind, it is crititcal to prevent our attentions from becoming too distracted. Do not ignore the important, potentially life-changing events happening all around us. Do your part in preventing the narrative from being written in ways that systematically harm others. Stay woke!

Best, Court Blackman EIC MMC’s The Monitor MMC News Page 3 Early Christmas music takeover receives mixed responses

By Jack Irvin success into the month of Decem- question many ask year after year: sic, Hannon comes to Christ- ber. Pentatonix, on the other hand, is it too early for Christmas music? mas’s defense. “I don’t think it Staff Writer has somewhat of an advantage as Many believe that listening to hurts the holiday at all because December is here, which means the album has already been wild- Christmas music too early, as well it brings the feelings of nostalgia Christmas is coming, Mariah Car- ly successful on the charts, peak- as the overall prominence of the that are signature of the season.” ey is regaining power yet again, ing at number one last year. The holiday throughout the month of Nostalgia seems to be the fac- and Christmas music has taken album is the group’s third Christ- November, takes away from the tor allowing festive tunes to ex- over the charts. The famous tree mas collection, following PTX- Christmas season itself. Thanks- ist early. Woodhouse agrees, “I in Rockefeller Center has been lit mas and That’s Christmas to Me, giving’s biggest event, the afore- don’t think it would hurt Christ- and celebrated with performanc- which have charted at numbers mentioned parade, features almost mas only because the songs and es aired live on NBC for the world seven and two, respectively. The entirely Christmas musical perfor- events are normally ‘happy’ to help to see. While this is the month rerelease of A Pentatonix Christ- mances, and Santa himself even keep the Christmas spirit alive.” when most people start listening mas has already brought the album makes an appearance each year. One artist with one of the to Christmas music, it is almost as back to number five on the chart, Marymount students Jack Han- most successful Christmas cata- though the musical festivities have recently supported by an hour non and Skylar Woodhouse have logues of all time is Mariah Car- already passed, or at least started. long Christmas concert broadcast- no problem with the early popu- ey, whose annual New York City The most high-profile Christ- ed on NBC. Similarly, Stefani will larity of Christmas music. “I listen Christmas concert series took mas music releases of the year have also have an hour long Christmas to Christmas music on the day af- place in the first week of Decem- been Gwen Stefani’s You Make It special on NBC later this month. ter Halloween; [Ariana Grande’s] ber this year. Her experience Feel Like Christmas, Sia’s Everyday The special will not mark the Christmas and Chill though, is an with the season may conscious- is Christmas, and the deluxe re-re- beginning of Stefani’s promotion- all-year-round affair,” Hannon says. ly lead her to wait for the month lease of the already successful A al campaign, as she has already Similarly, Woodhouse exclaims, of December to truly celebrate. Pentatonix Christmas, by acapella performed Christmas songs on “Honestly, I think it is appropriate With the big day approach- group Pentatonix. Stefani and Sia’s the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Pa- to listen to Christmas music during ing, only a couple of weeks away, efforts are currently sitting at num- rade and at the Rockefeller Cen- any time of year. I know that I have time will tell if the early high-pro- bers 44 and 27 respectively on the ter tree lighting ceremony, both been driving around on a summer file release dates affect the albums’ Billboard 200 albums chart. While of which were also broadcasted day, and I will listen to a couple of success throughout the season. If this might not seem very high for on NBC. The tree lighting cere- Christmas songs because they are MMC students find themselves in such high-profile artists, the al- mony also featured a performance super catchy and good sing-alongs.” these artists’ demographics, it is not bums were released on October 6 from Pentatonix. The prominence As far as whether or not likely they will be hurting for sales. and November 17, and these chart of Christmas music and popular the Christmas season is affect- positions do not yet reflect their events promoting such raises the ed by the early arrival of its mu- Award nominations announced for the 2017-2018 season

By Stephen Hladik ing part of the Grammy nomina- ry Styles’ “Sign of the Times” the begun screening for critics and the tions comes from its diverse array best song of the year. Other art- response has been pretty rapturous. Staff Writer of nominees. Regarding Broadway ists who have been frequenting The supporting acting awards cast recordings, Best Cast Album, on these lists are St. Vincent, Per- went to Willem Dafoe for The Flor- The 2017 Grammy nomina- the shows nominated in the Best fume Genius, LCD Soundsystem, ida Project and Laurie Metcalf for tions were announced this past Musical Theater Album category Father John Misty, and Jay-Z. Lady Bird. Lady Bird also picked week. Jay-Z received eight nom- includes Dear Evan Hansen, Come While we are still a few weeks up a Best Director award for Gre- inations this year, the most for From Away, and Hello, Dolly!. away from major award bod- ta Gerwig, the second woman any artist, including Album of the For the first time since 1999, no ies such as the Golden Globes, since Kathryn Bigelow in 2011 to Year for 4:44 and Record of the white male artists have been nom- the SAGs, and The Academy an- win the award. Lady Bird scored Year and Song of the Year for his inated for Album of the Year, with nouncing their nominations for big two days later at the New York song “The Story of OJ.” Next in Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, Childish the best movies and performanc- Film Critics Circle Award, where line was Kendrick Lamar, clock- Gambino, Bruno Mars, and Lorde es of the year, many major critics it picked up Best Picture and Best ing in with seven nominations, receiving nominations. Many ma- groups have begun announcing Actress for it’s star Saoirse Ronan. and, like Jay-Z, receiving nomina- jor publications have been putting their winners, thus signaling the Timothee Chalamet won Best Ac- tions in major categories includ- out their year-end lists of the best start of another awards season. tor for Call Me By Your Name, ing Album and Record of the year albums and songs of the year, and The National Board of Review while Dafoe repeated his Support- for his work on his album DAMN. some patterns seem to be emerg- announced their winners this week, ing Actor win here, and his direc- Childish Gambino achieved the ing. Lorde’s Melodrama and Ken- giving the upcoming Steven Spiel- tor, Sean Baker, won Best Director. same feat, scoring in Album and Re- drick Lamar’s DAMN. have been berg drama The Post top prizes with In a very pleasant surprise, cord with three additional nomina- topping many of the lists, with Roll- wins in Best Picture, Best Actor for Tiffany Haddish won Best Sup- tions. SZA was the most nominated ing Stone putting Kendrick Lamar Tom Hanks, and Best Actress for porting Actress for her work female artist this year, having been first and Lorde second, with Conse- Meryl Streep. The Post, which cen- in the summer comedy Girls nominated in Best New Artist and quence of Sound going vice versa. ters on the Washington Post’s leak- Trip. Both of these award bod- in the Urban and R&B categories Lorde also topped NME’s list, ing of the Pentagon Papers, won’t be ies voted Jordan Peele’s Get Out for her album Ctrl. The most excit- while Rolling Stone named Har- released until Christmas, but it has with Best First Feature awards.

Photos from Vanity Fair and Jackie Butler Page 4 MMC News MMC’s The Monitor Bryant Park Winter Village provides city with holiday cheer

By Katherine Schaffstall News Editor As the holidays approach, many winter themed markets are opening up around New York City. The Bryant Park Winter Village is arguably the most popular go-to destination for anyone looking to buy gifts for the holidays, as well as anyone in search of good food. This year’s holiday market fea- tures more than 150 food vendors and shopping kiosks throughout the park. A 17,000 square-foot ice skating rink is located in the center of Bryant Park. While any- one can ice skate free of charge, it costs $20 to rent a pair of ice skates during peak holiday season. Whether you are taking a break from ice skating or just want to head over to the Winter Village to shop, there are a variety of kiosks that everyone can enjoy. A number of them cater to health and well- ness products, jewelry, artwork, apparel and accessories, home goods, unique holiday gifts, games artwork kiosks include You Are gift before heading home for win- famous DŌ, Cookie Dough Confec- for kids, pets, and provisions. Here Studios, Brooklyn Art Facto- ter break. There are shops such tions being added to the long list of The seven kiosks that are ded- ry, Elementem Photography, One as Mr. Ellie Pooh, Boneyard Pets, food vendors at the Winter Village, icated to health and wellness sell Million Roses, and Pop Chart Lab. and Dog & Co. that offer a vari- a number of returning vendors are everything from soap to bath For those that are looking to ety of toys that your favorite fam- favorites from previous years. Be bombs. Some of the most notable buy some clothing and winter ac- ily member will definitely love. sure to check out stands including ones in this category are Sabon, cessories like scarves and hats to Thank your parents in advance Chick’n’Cone, Bun Ramen, Domo Ebb & Flow NYC, Soap & Paper stay warm this winter, there are for making you home cooked meals Taco, Pickle Me Pete, Trapizzino, Factory, and Dr. Silkman’s Hand- 39 shops that specialize in cloth- this holiday season by getting them and Home Frite. Vendors that spe- made Natural Body Emporium. ing and accessories. Men’s, wom- some provisions like tea, spic- cialize in dessert including Wafels There are 27 jewelry kiosks in- en’s, and children’s apparel can be es, and honey. Some stands that and Dinges, Max Brenner, Dough- cluded in this year’s Bryant Park bought at the Winter Village. Some specialize in provisions include nuttery, Breezy Hill Orchard, and Winter Village. Some of the most clothing shops that are featured Miss Tea, The Truffleist, and -Sul WOOPS! Macarons and Cookies well-known shops include Dear- this year include Winter Sense, livan Street Tea & Spice Company. will also be there for all sweet lovers. est Brooklyn, Lucid New York, Nirvana Designs, The French Mer- Book lovers will be happy to The Bryant Park Winter Village Little Village Crafts, Kate Lain maid, Spectre & Co., Meg Cohen know that The Strand has a kiosk, is currently open Monday through Jewelry, MUJUS, BORA, and The Design Shop, Lewis & Pine, NYC as well. Whether you are shop- Friday from 11a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Stone Flower. Many of them sell Touch, Patches & Pins, and Jumi. ping for yourself or are search- Saturday and Sunday from 10a.m. a variety of accessories includ- For those looking to redeco- ing for gifts, you’ll inevitably to 8 p.m. Shop kiosks and food ven- ing necklaces, rings, and brace- rate their tiny apartments or dorm find something for everyone at dors will remain open until Jan- lets that make for perfect gifts. rooms, the village also features 11 the Bryant Park Winter Village. uary 2. The ice skating rink hours Artwork ranging from landscape shops that specialize in home goods If shopping works up your ap- are 8a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, and it drawings, photography, and ce- including Mariasch Studios, The petite, there are a variety of vendors will remain open until March 4. ramic crafts can be found through- Garden of Curiosity, Homart NYC, that offer a diverse range of food out the 18 artwork shops featured All Across Africa, and ZenGarage. that can range from a snack to a full at the Winter Village. Some of the Don’t forget to get your pets a meal. In addition to the Instagram

Photos by Katherine Schaffstall MMC’s The Monitor MMC News Page 5 United Nations encourages customers to “shop smart” est industries in the world (worth So what are some tan- when you go shopping, and attend- By Billie Sanga 3.3 trillion). Leaders and influential gible steps you can take to ing a clothing swap (there are lots of Staff Writer voices in the fashion world also pro- make a positive impact? Facebook groups). Also, don’t hesi- vided action steps for what consum- Amanda Carr, Director of tate to ask stores what their CSR “Fast fashion” refers to cloth- ers and designers can do to stop and Strategy Initiatives of Canopy, an (corporate social responsibility) ing style trends that rise and fall reverse the damage that mass-pro- organization that provides con- policies are before making a pur- within a short span of time. Stores duction and fast-fashion has done. sultation to clothing brands in chase. The simplest solution, how- like H&M, TopShop, Zara, Pri- Established designers, CEOs, an effort to reduce deforestation ever, is to use your own resources mark, and Forever 21 mass pro- environment activists, educators, practices, suggests using alterna- and “make second-hand sexy again.” duce and sell products that reflect and organization founders for tive fibers and investing your mon- At the end of the conference, current fashion trends, and then, eco-friendly trade firms spoke to ey into companies like Patagonia the UN hosted a fashion show, the items are quickly disposed of. the link between corporate sustain- and Eileen Fisher who don’t use showcasing the clothing from envi- This happens for two reasons: The ability and how fashion can be used viscose in their clothing. Basical- ronmentally sustainable designers. trend fades as quickly as it arrives, as a vehicle for change. With the ly, check your labels for harmful The looks varied from loungewear, and the materials aren’t designed world’s population increasing to materials (polyester, cotton, ray- formal attire, business casual, and to last long, which accounts for 8 billion and climate change, land on, acetate, acrylic, and nylon). out-and-about. The event brought why they are relatively inexpen- and water depletion taking a toll Shivam Punja, Founder and to life a reality the world can ac- sive. Consumers might consider on the planet, fashion needs to be a CEO of Behno clothing, proposed tually achieve by having comfort- big brand name stores to be con- part of this discussion for both gov- a very simple consumption chal- able, affordable, and ecologically venient and stylish without being ernments and individual shoppers. lenge. It’s as easy as the motto of sensitive clothing that makes you pocket-draining; however, our To put it in context, Lillian Liu, “buy less, buy better,” meaning feel good, look good, and do good. planet is paying the highest price of manager of Partnerships & United don’t get caught up in season- Our daily decisions as consum- all. It’s quite literally being drained. Nations Relations, at the UN Glob- al fashion trends that won’t even ers can have a long-term impact On Thursday, November 16, the al Impact Department, pointed out, be relevant for the entire season, on water quality and availability, Department of Public Information “Making one cotton t-shirt takes and in general, don’t buy clothes air quality, temperature...every- and Non-Government Organiza- 913 gallons of water. For one per- you consciously know you won’t thing. Constantly questioning your tions sector of the United Nations son, that is enough water to last 900 be wearing long-term anyways. ethics and pushing yourself to be hosted a briefing on Fashion and days.” And that’s without even tak- Offering some proactivity, An- more mindful of the environment, Sustainability at their headquarters ing into account the legal and ethi- drea Reyes, Chair of the New York the people who made the clothing, in Midtown East. This conference cal dilemma of labour laws, safety, City Fair Trade Commission, in- and the economics behind it are was intended to address the glob- workplace equality, and harsher im- troduced ways to be a “fashion dis- ways you can directly contribute to al issue of climate change, and the pacts on the earth’s natural resourc- ruptor.” You can be cost-effective, a sustainable world. So, check the fashion industry’s powerful role in es, like water pollution from dyes eco-friendly, and stylish by joining labels and check your conscience. contributing to it, as one of the larg- and fossil fuel usage by factories. a fair trade group, setting rules for

Photo by Billie Teen Vogue changes platform, enters a new digital era jor announcement: after 13 years to their newfound success, as an material still be accessible to read- By Jackie Manno of publication, they will be discon- upgrade as opposed to a down- ers. In 2017, journalism is entering Staff Writer tinuing their print copies, and from grade. They are simply choosing a digital age, and this is a change this point the magazine will only to prioritize their strong points. that needs to be embraced for be- Teen Vogue, the fashion mag- be able accessible online. The last “Now Teen Vogue can take the loved publications to function. azine established in 2004 target- issue will be on December 5, and money from the only five print is- Teen Vogue will likely con- ed towards teenage girls, is un- Hillary Clinton will be on the cover. sues a year they produced and ap- tinue to flourish and cre- dergoing some major changes. In Many previous subscribers are ply those funds to creating a better atively breakthrough politi- the past year, the magazine has lamenting the loss, considering it Snapchat channel or producing cal journalism via its online received much praise for its elab- to be the “end of an era” and crit- more video content or developing publications. However, its print is- orate and breakthrough election icizing the publications decision conferences as I hear they are do- sues will be dearly missed by many. coverage. This has led to their due to their nostalgia. The deci- ing. I predict this move will only “Journalism is the same wheth- political sections overshadow- sion to switch to online only has make them stronger,” said Tatiana er in print or digital. You still need to ing and garnering more atten- also aroused an interesting ques- Serafin, professor of Journalism be able to report a story thoroughly, tion than their fashion sections. tion: why now? The publication at Marymount Manhattan College. write it well, fact check for accuracy, Since 2016, Teen Vogue’s web- seemed to be flourishing under its Although many subscribers and and promote it to readers. The roles site has seen substantial growth new politically-charged direction. fans of physical copies are under- and responsibilities of journalists in viewership, skyrocketing from However, it is a misconception standably upset over the online-on- have not changed. In fact, they are 2.2 million viewers to 7.6 million that this decision is being made in a ly shift, it seems to be a logical step probably more important than ever viewers in one year, a very notable negative light, or in response to the for the publication. It is one that in a time when freedom of the press and somewhat rare leap. In light of publication suffering. In fact, the is necessary in order to keep the is challenged daily,” said Serafin. this, Teen Vogue has made a ma- decision was made in a response business running, and to have its Page 6 MMC’s The Monitor Layout by: Megan Arnold MMC’s The Monitor Page 7 Writing by: Jane Sagovia Page 8 Student Voices MMC’s The Monitor Warped Tour embarks on final voyage ducer] would do that to people.” By Billie Sangha Speculation on whether or not Staff Writer this is a ploy to boost ticket sales, as Warped Tour hasn’t garnered the If you grew up listening to same turn out it did ten years ago, pop punk shopping at Hot Topic, are being chatted about on social Zumiez, or Vans, and ever iden- media, where all other conspiracy tified as “emo,” you have like- theories reside. But, for the sake ly heard the news that the Vans of the music scene and the “scene Warped Tour, after 23 years, will scene,” a flashback is in order. go on its final, full cross-coun- Since 1995, Warped Tour has try run this upcoming summer. been a staple in pop/punk/alter- It was a harsh blow to the nos- native rock music as a traveling talgic hearts of many college-aged festival, which in comparison to students who grew up listening to other festivals like Lollapalooza or bands like All Time Low, Mayday Bonnaroo, has consistently more Parade, The Maine, My Chemi- affordable tickets (general admis- cal Romance, and Paramore, and sion has been $15 at one point) even older adults who were fans and allowed fans more face time of original punk rock movement with their favourite musicians who bands like Green Day, Blink-182, often step out and hang out near and New Found Glory that inspired their band’s merchandise booths Photos from Noisey - VICE many of their musical successors. for informal meet and greets. Warped Tour offered a catapult It is also the largest tour- My Chemical Romance) to join to disappointed fans who bought for many smaller bands to reach ing music festival in the United the setlist for a reunion tour. specific (and non-refundable) tick- wider audiences and headline big- States, and the longest running Typically, the festival attracts ets to see those particular artists. ger tours, sell out albums, and even- in North America. By its second about 750,000 people annually, On the other hand, the festi- tually fill their own stadiums and tour in 1996, the skateboard shoe and the 2018 shows are expected val has been a huge proponent for arenas. Even solo artists like Katy manufacturer became the main to pan over a million with possi- activism and philanthropy in re- Perry can credit the tour with be- sponsor and since then, it’s been ble added dates to accommodate. gards to domestic violence, men- ing their launch pad. It also served known as the Vans Warped Tour. The Vans Warped Tour has tal health issues, sex crimes in the as a staple of adolescent summers Stylistically, the festival has faced both criticism and praise in music scene, and breast cancer where young music-lovers found started including diverse genres of its time operating as such a mas- awareness. They have partnered community while jamming out music over the years, and has also sive national attraction. Before with organizations like To Write to new tunes or old-time faves. had an influence on youth fash- more intensive security, there Love on Her Arms, Keep A Breast “I don’t even want to think ion. Teased hair, heavy eyeliner, were cases of sexual assault and Foundation, Music Saves Lives, about it,” one student admit- cut off t-shirts, checkered canvas instances of young female attend- and A Voice For The Innocent. ted during an elevator conversa- shoes, skinny jeans, and stud- ees being sexually harassed or ex- Clearly, in its extensive tion about the tour appropriately ded belts are some staple pieces. ploited by band members playing 20-something-year run, the Vans named All Things Must Come To Since the big announcement, at the festival. Bands have also Warped Tour will be leaving behind An End. “But they’re ending it shy fans have been pleading for orig- broken up in the middle of the a legacy of revolutionary sound, ac- of their 25th anniversary, so who inal bands from the humble be- tour, which can often be a literally tivist efforts, and an inclusive and knows if this is real. I don’t think ginnings of Warped Tour (even and metaphorically heated space diverse community of music-lovers. Kevin Lyman [the founder/pro- ones that have disbanded, like for musicians, and this has led Final projects instead of exams not as ideal as perceived By Camille Bourne time and effort a presentation or on final projects until they are the sors so that things are easier for Print Managing Editor an essay requires. While substi- only thing left to do at the end of their students, but even a little bit tuting an essay for an exam may the semester. And often, they are more consideration in these things Being stressed around final seem to save time, it in fact de- all due at the exact same time. when writing a syllabus or hand- exam time is as natural a part of mands more, and when multiple It should be noted that as one’s ing out assignments could great- the collegiate experience as liv- classes all assign essays that are a academic endeavors advance, es- ly reduce students’ stress levels. ing in a dorm. It’s to be expected, minimum of anywhere from four says and other assignments can Another, perhaps more mu- although many schools and pro- to eight pages, using flashcards be employed to demonstrate a tually agreeable solution, is to go fessors make an effort to lighten to prepare for an eighty minute student’s full grasp of certain forward with a final exam, but hold the burdensome aspects of finals test doesn’t seem so daunting. concepts beyond just circling in it in the form of an in-class essay. for their students, recognizing it Even if half of a full-time stu- bubbles on a Scantron. To a cer- This way, students can show their may lead to better work. Is one of dents’ classes were based on essays, tain degree, this is the entire individual levels of comprehension the steps that can be considered they could easily end up writing concept behind capstone class- in a more in-depth manner, and helpful actually contributing to well over twenty pages a semester. es and final theses. But there’s even apply knowledge from oth- the student stress and burnout? On its own, and given four months no reason that alternative meth- er classes as well. The strict due Around this time of the semester, to write them, this may not seem ods of testing a student’s knowl- date is still in place, but students many students seem to think so. like that difficult of a task to some; edge have to be so overwhelming. can prepare for it on their own like When assigning final projects– however, when one factors in time So what can professors do to they would a final exam; what’s be they videos, essays, or other var- to work on regular homework make the final weeks of the semes- more, they can show their pro- ious forms of presentation–profes- and additional projects through- ter less stressful for students, with- fessor that they understand con- sors often will make the deadline the out the semester, the hours seem out necessarily sacrificing the qual- cepts in great detail, just like they final class session of the semester. to drift away, and students are ity or type of assignments given? could with any other type of essay. Some even stretch out the due often not very inclined to jump One solution is fairly simple, College is supposed to be hard. date to be the final day of the semes- straight to a new assignment. but could make a world of dif- The longer you stay, the more ter. Rather than taking the more Some may consider this pro- ference in students’ lives. Some complex it gets, until students con- traditional route of holding a final crastinating. They may argue that students suggest staggering fi- quer their theses and graduate. And exam on the last day, many class- time management is a skill col- nal assignments to either be due while that academic rigor is im- es have been leaning towards these lege students must learn in or- on the final day of the class, or at portant to students, it is just as im- alternative forms of assignments. der to be successful, but the re- an earlier date, since many other portant that they feel they are able But, some students claim that ality for many students is this: professors make deadlines for the to complete quality work that they while not having to rigorously With jobs, homework, and other last day of the semester. Natural- can be proud of. A rethinking of study for an exam is indeed nice, responsibilities piling up, there ly, it is not the job of the professor the way class finals are structured it is nothing in comparison to the is often little or no time to work to coordinate with other profes- could guarantee that they can do so. MMC’s The Monitor Student Voices Page 9 Mosque attack in Egypt targets Sufi muslims

Photos from Vox.com and Voanews.com

By Fahima Degia mosque with Sufi Muslims. Islam, who expresses political dissent.” did. They’re known for these types like any religion, has people with dif- After the attack the Egyptian of cowardly intimidation tactics, Staff Writer ferent sets of beliefs, such as Sunni, military carried out airstrikes in targeting almost everything that Sufi, and Shia Muslims. Sufi Mus- the area of Bir al-Abed, target- goes against their religious/conser- The Middle East is known to lims are usually targets of attack by ing vehicles. The news later came vative/orthodox views.” have a long history of conflicts. Sunni militant groups due to differ- out reporting that the number of Bennington also compared the Some of the most prominent con- ent religious beliefs. Sufi Muslims, deaths included 27 children. It events to American terrorist at- flicts include the Israeli-Palestinian according to a New York Times ar- was also reported that the attack tacks and said, “I’d look into other conflict, the Syrian Civil War, The ticle on the attack written by Declan was led by 25 to 30 militants who ‘orthodox’ terrorist organizations, Iran-Iraq war, and the War on Ter- Walsh and Nour Youssef, believe surrounded the mosque carrying such as Boko Haram and the KKK. ror led by the United States. Most in a “Mystical form of Islam that weapons. The world started to re- The incidents and justifications are of the people in the Middle East the Islamic State and other Sunni act to the news as Donald Trump almost identical. White suprem- practice Islam. Muslims in the Mid- extremist groups deem heretical.” tweeted about the attack. Trump acist Dylann Roof walking into a dle East highly identify with their No one has claimed responsi- used the attack to explain the build- church and killing 9 people is no faith and make up a large amount bility for the attack, but it is specu- ing of the wall between Mexico and different than killing 250 plus peo- of the population. Due to centuries lated that ISIS was behind it. These America. Trump also said the ban ple in a mosque. Terrorism is ter- of conflicts in the Middle East, and speculations come from reportings is needed, referring to immigra- rorism despite color and creed.” a misunderstood religion in West- of attackers carrying ISIS flags and tion control as well as the Muslim “It’s almost voyeuristic for us as ern Society, it is easy for people to other attacks on Sufi Muslims from ban that came out earlier this year. Westerners to observe and comment overlook the terrorist attacks that extremist groups. In the past, ISIS The gunmen were described on these interactions which have happened in a mosque in Egypt. has bombed a Sufi Shrine, Mosque, as ruthless and that they blocked been happening/gradually evolv- On November 24, The New and festival in Pakistan. ISIS’s core civilians from escaping and tar- ing for hundreds and thousands of York Times, Al Jazeera, Vox, CNN, beliefs also make them a major geted ambulances as well. Some of years,” Bennington continued. “It’s and other major media outlets suspect in the attacks. ISIS believes the wounded were taken in a cattle incomparable to any kind of politi- covered the story. The attack hap- in a fundamental Islam, which is truck as the scene got chaotic, ac- cal or domestic turmoil that we, as pened in Egypt, which is located Wahhabism. Wahhabism is a con- cording to New York Times journal- a 241 year old nation, experience.” in Africa but known to be in the servative reform movement that ist, Mayna Nasser. Many civilians Despite the common fear Middle East. Egyptian Sufi Mus- ISIS has adapted and took to their were taken to the general hospital in Americans have of being attacked lims were attacked in a mosque hands. ISIS tries to purify, and in the northern Sinai town. According by extremist Muslims, it is import- in Sinai. Militants led the attack doing so uses violence against Sufi to the New York Times, the medics ant to acknowledge Muslims in the on a small al-Rawda village, tar- Muslims who have mystical beliefs. were overwhelmed with patients Middle East are currently target- geting worshippers with gunfire Alex Ward from Vox News who had severed limbs, wounds, ed by extremist groups everyday. and a bomb. As a result of the at- says that another motivation for burns, and some were dead. If ISIS is responsible for the at- tack, 305 people died and 128 the attack might have been the Marymount Manhattan College tacks in Egypt, that is just one of people were left wounded. Offi- state of politics in Egypt. The re- student Olivia Bennington com- the examples of Muslims being the cials have reported this attack to pressive politics in Egypt are con- mented on the tragic events and main target of ISIS. The genocide be the deadliest terrorist attack in trolled by president Abdel Fat- also supported the theory of ISIS of Syrians everyday since the Civil contemporary Egyptian society. tah el-Sissi. El-Sissi “continues to being behind the attacks. “I don’t War started is another great exam- In the wake of the attack, peo- crack down on religious extremists, believe ISIS claimed responsibility, ple proving that Muslims too are ple have noted the attack was on a students, protesters, and anyone but I wouldn’t be surprised if they afraid of these extremist groups. Page 10 Student Voices MMC’s The Monitor Prince Harry announces marraige to Meghan Markle

By Jesse Fillare condemning the “wave of abuse- The Queen and Duke of Ed- ship and supports the He For She Features Editor ment and harassment” Markle inburgh had announced that they campaign. Of course, it is obvious had been going through. These are “delighted for the couple and she is excited for her fancy roy- attacks, mainly from British tab- wish them every happiness.” Harry al wedding, but she has expressed On November 27, Clarence loids, were both racist and sexist, sought out and received the blessing her excitement to learn more House announced that the once where reporters commented on of Markle’s parents as well before about communities and small- infamous bachelor, Prince Harry, how she is just a “commoner” and proposing, adhering to old tradi- er organizations within Britain. 33, is engaged to Ms. Meghan Mar- how she is half African-American. tions. He also shared that he believes In an interview with BBC, kle, 36, an actress from America. Markle will become the first his late mother, Princess Diana Prince Harry shared, “We’re a fan- Growing up with the nickname, person who identifies as biracial would be “jumping up and down” tastic team, we know we are, and “heir to the spare” to his older in the Royal Family when she and at the news of their engagement. hope to over time try and have brother, Prince William, Prince Harry wed next spring. Her moth- Two of the diamonds from as much impact for things we Harry earned a reputation in his er is African-American and her Markle’s ring are even from Prin- care about as much as possible.” youth of being quite rebellious. father is Caucasian. She is an ex- cess Diana’s personal collection, Prince Harry and Markle will For years he made the front tremely successful career woman as well as a stone from Botswa- wed in Spring 2018 at St. George’s page of tabloids, featuring him and is outspoken about her iden- na (the country where they went Chapel at Windsor Castle. Prince with different women, nightclub tity. Their engagement is truly on a camping trip together when Harry is the grandson of Queen hopping, and smoking and drink- historic, since she is a woman of they first started dating), - mak Elizabeth II and fifth in line to the ing. The world knew Harry to be color, a divorcee, and American. ing the ring quite special and per- throne. They are expected to be more of the “troublemaker” of the The crown is changing and sonal to their relationship and known as the Duke and Duchess Royal Family; however, this shift- years ago an engagement of this those most important to them. of Sussex. Markle may informal- ed a bit in early 2016, when he be- type would have had the poten- The British Royal Family con- ly be known as Princess Meghan. gan dating Markle, who is known tial to be a “scandal” for the press, tinually participates in a variety of It is reported that the ceremony for playing Rachel on USA’s Suits. but now, the monarchy will in- philanthropic work, and Markle will be televised to let the public be Prince Harry and Markle met clude more of those of color and has stated that she looks forward apart of the celebrations and that on a blind date in July 2016. Just from both sides of the pond. Mar- to taking on more charity work. their wedding cake will be made months after they started dat- kle is proud of who she is and who She is a UN’s women’s advocate for of banana. Congratulations to ing, Harry issued a statement she and Harry are as a couple. Political Participation and Leader- Prince Harry and Meghan Markle!

Photos from CNN, Slate, and The Telegraph MMC’s The Monitor Student Voices Page 11 ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ falls short despite box office win

Photo from Black Girl Nerds

By Megan Arnold ance and symmetry of the eggs story unravels, you find out that the ing, looking angry, or even smiling. Website Managment Editor were vital to their taste. He points reason for Depp’s death is because Poirot then faces a dilemma: out the lack of balance once again he murdered a young child a few Should he tell the truth about who CAUTION: SPOILERS AHEAD. in the film as he steps into a giant years back, changed his name, and murdered him and put these people pile of manure, using his other became an art dealer. The connec- in jail, even though he was a terri- I took the crowded, musty R foot to balance out the shape that tions to this murder become more ble man? Or should he lie and cor- train to Queens last week to go see his other food had created. This prominent as each character is in- rupt his morals? In the end, Poirot a movie with a friend; the movie we detail may seem very miniscule, terviewed and you start to wonder decides he needs to “face the imbal- chose was The Murder on the Ori- but to me, the importance of bal- how every single person on this train ance in life” and do what is right for ent Express. From the looks of the ance and his OCD-like tendencies is somehow related to the crime. the little girl and those who got back trailer and the star-studded cast, it stuck out from the very beginning. As the movie dragged on, I grew at Depp. He is then called off to an- looked like it was going to be an ex- When Poirot is invited on the tired of the constant push and pull other case in a different country. ceptional film. After getting our $15 train by an old friend, he meets a of the storyline and longed for the My eyes rolled as soon as the tickets and seating arrangements, wide array of characters played by culprit to be named so I could just credits did, leaving me with such we ran into the theater right as the Michelle Pfeiffer, Johnny Depp, Pe- go home. However, the cinema- disappointment for what could’ve final preview was dimming out. nelope Cruz, and more. All the char- tography was exceptionally beau- been such a good movie. The idea for The film opens with a dra- acters are introduced throughout tiful and made the movie far more every single one of the passengers matic scene of Hercule Poirot, the first ten minutes of the film and bearable. As the film came to an to have taken part in the murder the detective played by Kenneth you begin to wonder who is going to end, it’s revealed that every single is original, yet so incredibly tacky. Branagh, solving a perplexing die and who is going to murder them. person on the train was apart of a Needless to say, this mov- crime that left the public rest- Johnny Depp’s character asks mass-murder scheme, planned by ie left me sorely dissapointed. I less and demanding an answer. Poirot to protect him from people Michelle Pfeiffer’s character, be- truly longed for and expected far Before he solved the crime, he thinks are going to kill him. He cause they all wanted revenge for more of a moving, well-written though, he had a little boy run refuses the offer. Depp is then found the murder of the little girl. A tacky movie with an incredibly complex around the town trying to find dead with multiple stab wounds in throwback shot is put in showing storyline; however, in the words two perfectly shaped hard boiled his chest and many other incrim- every person taking turns stab- of the wise Mick Jagger, “you eggs; Poirot stresses that the bal- inating clues in his cabin. As the bing Depp’s character while cry- can’t always get what you want.”

Photos from IGN and Vox Page 12 Advertisements MMC’s The Monitor