April 2010 WWW.BERGEN.EDU/THETORCH VOLUME - 17 ISSUE - 3

Kratos is Chat Roulette: Downloading: BACK!!!! How Far is Too Far Legal vs Illegal pg.12 pg.15 pg. 17

Consumers Find job brake for Toyota The Torch opportunities Recalls in all the right pg 6 THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF BERGEN COMMUNITY COLLEGE pg 5 places Why Some Students Will Not Graduate From BCC

Travis Weite Copy Editor Out of all the students at Bergen Community the courses they choose to take and will not have College, a large number end up dropping out, never to withdraw. Financial Aid programs are designed to be heard of again. Most would agree that the to help students who are dealing with financial stresses of college may be too much for some students troubles. For students who are having difficulty to handle, but drop-outs may be prevented with more in their classes, the tutoring center is available for communication between the administration and students to receive extra help. struggling students. President Ryan realizes that the administration Since 2000, the graduation rates have been steadily must try to reach out to students at the beginning of increasing, reaching an all time high of 1,542 graduates their academic career if they are to graduate in two for the 2009 academic year. This increase may act years. Director of Student Life, Nestor Melendez, as a sign for those instances when a degree is vital emphasized that, “[S]tudents should come into BCC in order to be employed at a job that will support a with their focus on graduating.” BCC offers transfer family. Some students may believe that this is only programs to several nearby, four-year institutions true of a Bachelor’s degree, but it can be applied for an that allow students to transfer in as juniors. Should Associate’s degree as well. “[S]tudents underestimate students choose to transfer before graduation, they the value of a BCC degree," said Academic Vice may end up needing to repeat courses they have President, Gary F. Porter. "Having a degree from BCC already taken. will help students get a job because a BCC degree is To avoid some of the confusion that students recognized by BCC alumni in the workforce. This normally go through when trying to plan their recognition will show what graduates are capable of.” academic career, speak with advisors within the There are many reasons why students make the school to develop a plan that is right for you. It is decision to drop out of BCC. Students may be under the goal of BCC to educate students and provide all financial stress or have family obligations that force of the information and resources that are necessary them to sacrifice school. “The average student has for a student to succeed academically. more to worry about than just school,” said President It is important to note that college is different G. Jeremiah Ryan. “Students have jobs, family from high school. No one will inform you that responsibilities and are involved in other activities in you have taken enough credits to graduate or hold addition to going to school.” This understanding is your hand in the transferring process. If you do reflected in some of the programs and policies that not take charge of your academic career, you will have been implemented at BCC. end up repeating classes and spending more time These programs and policies are designed to in a community college than necessary. BCC decrease the probability that a student will withdraw administrators will meet you halfway when it comes Don’t let your chance of graduating turn to ashes. from classes and drop out of school. By requiring to your academic career, but you must do your part to students to have prerequisites to take certain classes, talk to the people who can help, if you truly want to PHOTO BY DAWN FOSTER BCC hopes that students will be more prepared for succeed and move on to a four-year institution that is. Good Morning America

Ayelet Shimron Editor-in-Chief Many dedicated journalism life, I’m doing pretty well with. and TV-media students lined up I get to go home to the best.” at 6:00 a.m. outside the "Good The chutzpa present in the Morning America" studio, field of journalism really shone located in Times Square, New through when students walked York City, to get a behind-the- right up to McGraw and took scenes look at the production pictures with him, as well as process from A-to-Z. with the band. After McGraw The trip, which took place and his band concluded their on March 3rd, allowed students live performance, some lucky to catch up with country singer, BCC students were able to go Tim McGraw, who lit up the home with the guitar picks used stage with his country jam by the musicians themselves. performance of the song ‘Still’ Stage manager, Eddie from his new album, Southern Luisi, when asked what he Voice. The Bergen Community likes best about working at College students got a front GMA, said, “I like that it’s row view of McGraw’s live. When you’re in TV, when interview with Robin Roberts. you’re in a soap opera, you can McGraw’s appearance in the do a show that’s not live and movie, ‘The Blind Side,’ was take its Take-1, Take-2, Take- noted to be a great success. 14, Take-20, it could get real In interviewing McGraw boring, very monotonous. You about his new movie ‘Sunday’ could be on one set all day long Roberts asks, “You go from for eight hours. Sandra Bullock, who's fantastic, This is a live show, so you then working with Gwyneth got to do it right. Also, at this [Paltrow] in this latest one.” show you have news, music, McGraw’s humorous response models, celebrities, authors; was “Well the women in my you have a good mix. Every Torch students exhibit their posters while waiting outside the GMA studio See Good Morning America on pg 4 PHOTO BY AYELET SHIMRON

Winner for News & Arts and Entertainment Writing Award and Layout & Design 2008-2009, Winner of the General Excellence Award 2007-2008 New Jersey Press Foundation Better College Newspaper Contest Page 2 BCC News April 2010 Women’s History Month at BCC

“Writing Women Back into History”

Travis Weite Copy Editor Women’s History Month is an annual salute to the honor women for their historic achievements and ensure them. In some parts of the world, girls no older than ten women around the world who will forever be remembered that women’s history is forever remembered. The project years old are being sold to old men as wives. Women are in history for their contributions to mankind and the was created in 1980 by a group of female activists: Molly being killed for voicing their opinions or showing parts progress they have made in making a name for women Murphy MacGregor, Mary Ruthsdotter, Maria Cuevas, of their body. All over the world, girls and women are everywhere. Paula Hammett and Bette Morgan. being raped and abused. It is important to realize that the Women’s History Month started from humble The theme of 2010’s Women’s History Month is horrors of the past are present today, and that many women beginnings as just one day, but has since come to be a “Writing Women Back into History.” The majority of still suffer as a result. week in 1980 and is now celebrated for the entire month of history books have been written by men. This has caused It is important for BCC students to realize the March in the United States as of 1987. There would have most historical contributions of women to be omitted from importance of this month and the women honored. Many been no celebration at all had it not been for the efforts of the history books. women have sacrificed their lives and their freedom the National Women’s History Project (NWHP). The purpose of this year’s theme, as set by the NWHP, to stand up for the cause of women’s rights. It is sad to There have been several events around Bergen is to correct this injustice and defend the rightful place of realize that a woman’s right to vote did not come about Community College in honor of this month. These events women in history books. By teaching the children, as well until the beginning of the last century. Women are strong honor the women of history, as well as the women of today. as the young men and women of today, the contributions and intelligent beings that are worthy of the recognition The events serve to educate students about the importance of women throughout history, perhaps we will raise that so many men have received throughout history. of women everywhere, those at BCC in particular. a generation of tolerant men and women who believe Everyone has a mother and all of our mothers have There was a time when women were not allowed to that women are capable of doing anything men can do, been a subject to some form of disrespect just for being attend college, let alone teach at one. The women who including serving as President of the United States. female. Use this month to honor your mother, sister, wife, teach and attend BCC are historical figures because they Despite the progress women have made for women’s daughter and all women who have made an impact in the are teaching at, or attending a college. Female BCC rights so far, disrespect and injustice toward women still world. Women’s History Month may just be one month, students serve as examples of women who further the exists within and outside of the United States. Today, but respect toward women and their contributions should cause of women’s rights by exercising them. women are being sold into human trafficking, or modern last year round. The NWHP is an initiative originating in 1980 to day slavery, and having their civil rights taken away from What Am I Speaking, Yiddish? Matthew W. Cole Features Editor

The sweet, subtle poetry of Deborah Vogel is As Makowiecka read and dissected a few poems, a couple Makowiecka translated into English herself for the listeners. relatively unknown to most educators and students. of informed spectators chimed in with insight of their own. Vogel was born in Lvov, Poland and earned her You can punch Deborah Vogel in a Google search Makowiecka describes Vogel as “…obviously brilliant…” Ph. D. in 1926 from Jagiellonian University. In 1932 and you would have to hunt for a while before when her 1993 poem, “Streets and the Sky” was discussed. she married, and had only one son who was named finding a slim bit of information, in English anyways. Material information and opinions were also discussed Anshel. Sadly, in 1942 she and her family were killed For Women’s History Month, Dr. Maria Makowiecka for two other poems; "A Day Figure” from the series for not siding with the Nazis during World War II. decided to educate both teachers and students Tog-Figurn, 1930 and "The Military Parade," 1937. Deborah Vogel has now been brought to wanting to learn more about Vogel’s life story. “Always, when the sky is gray, the streets are tired Bergen Community College. Hopefully her work With the help of a PowerPoint slide show and a few and sweet, like the seas, gray and warm,” is a quote from will be spurred throughout the classrooms and crisp handouts of Vogel’s collective work, Makowiecka the "Streets and the Sky." This fine quote, as well as into the hearts of students and educators alike. presented an engaging story on the life of Deborah Vogel. all her other writings, were written in Yiddish; educator

Sojourner Truth 1797-1883

Mother Teresa Maya Angelou 1928- Amelia Earhart 1910-1997 1897-1939 April 2010 BCC News Page 3 Dr. Susan Fuhrman Speaks at BCC

Nicole De Los Santos, Alfred Martinez News Editor, Staff Writer

During a period when Bergen Community College in their academic journeys. The changes she hopes for made that are both beneficial to the students and schools, honors and recognizes the hard work of women, a very range from local, state and government reform, pertaining since the current result ‘hold and repeat the year’ isn’t notable individual took center stage as keynote speaker to educational policies and accountability pressures in helping. An additional plan that has already begun is dual at the Anna Maria Ciccone Theatre on March 3rd, who high schools. The students we have now are the future that enrollment. Having high school students earn college gave an informative speech on education and a plug for the will lead us into a whole new era. Therefore, the very best credits throughout their four years prepares students for Teacher’s College of Columbia University. This individual in education should be available; an issue which President college curriculums, allowing for a smoother transition has worked very hard throughout her career, earned every Obama has recently pressed upon, with his support for the toward earning a degree. bit of recognition for her accomplishments and is none firings of unqualified teachers and raises for teachers that Following Dr. Fuhrman’s presentation, she was asked other than Dr. Susan H. Fuhrman, who eloquently graced help students excel. many questions and given comments by the audience BCC with her voice at the podium. A new idea is emerging with the vast amount of regarding what can be done to fix the educational epidemic A fact that Dr. Fuhrman made clear from the beginning technology available. Now is the time when everyone that America faces. Topics ranged from comparisons of of her presentation was that for every one hundred high must use the advanced frontier of the internet, computers how well certain Asian students are doing in reflection school students, only eighteen will complete college; and limitless resources that are available. “Each generation to America’s schools and which schools around the states this is not surprising since the college graduation rate is romanticizes a golden age of school. The way students are have had to close due to budget cuts. extremely low in America. learning now has definitely changed and it’s frustrating Other topics that drew attention were in regards to Internationally the United States is ranked 25th out of to teachers who never learned that way,” commented structural reform for students entering college, charter 30th in mathematics and 15th out of 19th in reading. That’s Fuhrman. Nothing definite has been decided, but these schools, what can be done for students in and out of school a very dreadful statistic, considering that many high school advancements need to be embedded so teachers can help communities, needed improvements in K12 school systems students enter college needing to take remedial courses students get back onto a more accurate trajectory. and taking diverse classes so that students have a broad before they can commence their collegiate curriculums, Another noteworthy idea is to start at the foundations option of ideas in deciding what and where to study. delaying college graduation by at least a semester. Here of high school learning, specifically targeting dropout New Jersey’s own budget woes also gained interest and at BCC, the graduation rate is 10% for students who rates. Schools don’t always put into consideration that that's something teachers will have to get use to since a complete their program within the estimated time, and the less affluent students may have to work for their families, lot of misspending has taken place causing these effects. transfer rate is 16% respectfully, based on statistics from meaning they don’t have the necessary time for studying; When asked about how a teacher’s performance to teach fasfa.ed.gov. making it critical for students to get the necessary may be affected by such strains in education, specifically Fuhrman, being the 10th President of the Teacher’s education during school hours. One solution—pull back budget cuts, one word summed it up from Dr. Fuhrman, College of Columbia University, has many inspirational the students performing poorly and having them repeat “distress”. goals set in mind for the well being of students to succeed the year, some may wonder? Better solutions must be

Words of Women Edwidge Danticat’s Unique Way of Rachel Kaminer Writing “Night Women” Staff Writer Stephen Zheng In school curricula of this Everyone got a list of five Staff Writer day and age, female writers, prompts. Each of these prompts like Emily Dickinson and Jane focused on self-expression. The Are women's writing styles different from The same form of attempting survival can be said Austen, may be forgotten at topics ranged from writing a men's? In celebration of Women's History Month, for the people of Haiti due to the tragedy that many times. However, it is not only tribute to a woman you admired one author's writing would be studied Professor of the people are even struggling to survive. famous women writers that to realizing your role in society. Stacey Balken and Professor Kelly Keane hosted Professor Stacey Balken also compared one of should be recognized. The There was a writing period of a Book and Brunch event on March 18th in room Edwidge Danticat's famous stories, the Krik? Krak! women of today need to make about twenty minutes. I found C-303, reintroducing a famous past story like with one of the New York Times news article, To their voices heard as well. The that it was extremely helpful to Marlon Jame’s Night Women as well as the famous Heal Haiti, Look to History, Not Nature, written by “Writing Women” workshop, write down the words that I was and successful Haitian-American author Edwidge Mark Danner. Balken showed how in Krik Krak! part of Women’s History Month thinking at that very moment. Danticat’s Krik? Krak!. a mother was scolding her daughter how being a at Bergen Community College, The exercise helped with self- During this event, Balken explained the unique writer will bring shame to their family and nothing helped women of all ages get expression and with writing as ways of writing that Danticat has shown in her good will come out of it; that each braid of her their voices heard. well. stories and novels; her work having inspired other daughters hair represented each of the nine hundred The workshop, led by Dr. After writing for twenty writers to write in the same style. She also explained and ninety-nine ancestors that made her who she Dorothy Altman and Dr. Leigh minutes, we each got a chance how some of Danticat’s story has a relation to the is. Professor Stacey Balken pointed out how each Jonaitis, focused on helping to read what we had written. It tragedy that happened in Haiti. braid in the daughter is very similar to the Haiti women write and make their was a sense of togetherness as Balken pointed out the harsh times that the women in the Haiti tragedy. points known. The workshop I listened to people of all ages people of Haiti are going through right now, which This event showe a lot of students and professors started with the question, which share what they had written. One is very similar to how the main character in ‘Night the unique writing ways of Edwidge Danticat and received a variety of responses: woman read what she thought Women’ is. In Night Women a mother struggling Marlon James, while offering food and beverages Why did you come here? Some about her name. Another one to feed her only son is forced into prostitution just as well! people said that they came read about growing up with a so they can survive and put food in their stomachs. to express themselves. Some large family. It really gives a people came because they sense of peace and comfort once wanted to become better writers. you see that people are going The workshop gave everyone an through the same situations as opportunity to achieve those you are. goals in a relaxed, yet productive setting.

Ellen DeGeneres 1958- Natalie Portman Oprah Winfrey Princess Diana 1981- 1954- 1981-1996 Page 4 BCC News April 2010 • Iona-Bergen CC 4.7.10:Layout 1 3/9/10 2:35 PM Page 1

Good Morning America continued from pg 1 You Can Transfer single day it’s a little different, even though it’s the same show.” After watching a live cast production Luisi has been at GMA for 25 years. of the show the students of BCC got To Iona College. He claims that the field is about your a personal tour behind the scenes of personality; how you get along. It is GMA. They were able to see where about being friendly and doing the job the magic takes place firsthand. From without getting people nervous. This meeting the back stage TV editing team, job is a union job so it’s a “catch 22.” to an opportunity to sit in the same You cannot get in unless you are in the seats that Robin Roberts and George union. It is a hard job to get into so for Stephanopoulos speak from every those looking to get a job at GMA, it’s morning, the young aspiring journalists advised you get into the lower level jobs and TV-media students could not have and work your way up the ladder. To be a asked for a more adrenaline pumping news anchor or reporter for GMA takes event. time. Once you’ve built your resume it The staff at GMA wakes up every comes down to other facets in which morning at 3:00 AM and have proved Luisi describes, “Hopefully you got worthy of producing a show that many A Best College in the North the right look, I don’t know [what that dedicated early birds across America -U.S. News & World Report may be]. I mean, you got Robin Roberts have grown to trust and respect as their A Best Northeastern College and George Stephanopoulos; do they fit number one choice of morning news. together? I don’t know.” -The Princeton Review A Top Undergraduate Business School in the Northeast -BusinessWeek

Earn a degree that matters

• Over 40 majors and minors taught by • Dozens of campus clubs and activities professors, never teaching assistants • State-of-the-art athletics center • Successful alumni • New student union • Fantastic internships • Study abroad opportunities • Scenic suburban campus just 20 • 21 NCAA Division 1 (MAAC) minutes from midtown Manhattan athleti c teams Come spend a day or schedule a campus visit. To speak to an admissions counselor call (800) 231-IONA or visit us online at iona.edu. IONA COLLEGE • 715 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10801 [L-R] Bergen Students Perpetua Romain, Ayelet Shimron, and Follow us on Twitter (twitter.com/ionacollege) Nita Lim posing with stage manager, Eddie Luisi backstage at the GMA studio in Times Square. PHOTO BY PERI LYNN GLASNER Stay Near. Go Far. • Academic Excellence. Our recent graduates are Fulbright and Rhodes scholars. • Choice Programs. We offer 60+ majors and programs including communication, business and nursing. • Transfer Credits. Keep all or most of your existing credits. • Scholarships. Apply and you are automatically considered for transfer scholarships. Get your future started! transfer.shu.edu Seton Hall University April 2010 BCC News Page 5 I Kissed A Mezuzah and I Liked It! Torah, can provide you with a certain sense of a representation that G-d’s presence lies within, and all around; watching over the home Ayelet Shimron uncompromisable holiness. and its dwellings with a caring protective eye. Editor-in-Chief With Passover right around the corner, Bergen Upon entering your home, the traditional method that accompanies Community College’s Hillel Club, run by Rabbi Ely owning a Mezuzah requires you to kiss your finger tips and place that Allen, provided the club’s members with the opportunity to engage in a “Make your own hand on the Mezuzah with a simple touch. Since the majority of people Mezuzah” day! are right-handed, the Mezuzah is typically placed on the right side of What is a Mezuzah? According to www.chabad.org, a Mezuzah is “A parchment every door and doorway throughout the house. scroll inscribed with the verses of the Shema [the first two words of a section of the According to www.chabad.org, “The name of G-d, Sha-dai, Torah] and affixed to the right doorpost of every room in a Jewish home.” which appears on the reverse side of the parchment is an acronym for The Mezuzah stems back to the time of the Exodus when the Jews fled Egypt to the Hebrew words which mean ‘Guardian of the doorways of Israel.’" rid themselves from slavery. The ritually recited phrase that goes along with the establishment of The word Mezuzah is derived from the word “zuz,” which in Hebrew means the Mezuzah states, “May G-d protect my going and coming in, now and “move” or “pass over,” thus resulting in the Jewish holiday, Passover. The concept forever.” With a custom so spiritually uplifting, it would be an undoubtedly signifies Moses when he called for the elders of Israel and, according to www. difficult task to feel anything but secure in any Jewish household. ngabo.org, said to them, “Pick out and take lambs for yourselves according to In regards to the Hillel Club and its growing popularity within our student your families, and with the Passover lamb, strike the Mezuzot with the blood body, we have a great deal of gratitude and appreciation to express to Rabbi Ely of the lamb. And none of you shall go out of the door of his house until Allen who has devoted many hours to transform the club into a valuable, nonetheless morning.” It is written: “by His DEATH, HE might DESTROY him who essential constituent to BCC’s campus. The students of the Hillel Club were able holds the POWER of DEATH – that is – and free those who all their lives to bless their homes with a wonderful and deep-rooted attribute, generating more were HELD in SLAVERY by their FEAR of DEATH.” Heb 2:14-15. meaning and righteousness by virtue of obtaining a Mezuzah. You are probably still asking yourself, what exactly is a Mezuzah? According to club President, Josh Rubin, he describes his experience as one that To put it plain and simple, a Mezuzah allows us, in short, to capture has been, “One hell of a joy ride. I’ve gotten to know all the Jewish faculty and students. those tiny meaningful moments, providing us with a daily pause I think we are really doing great things. We [even] managed to get a Menorah [placed] for reflection and prayer in the process of coming and going from in the school.” the home. Hillel hopes to bring more recognition to Jews everywhere, taking it out from under The Mezuzah is a truly precious addition to any Jewish the radar, because it really belongs to each and every Jewish student who feels a collective household and should not be taken for granted. It does not only sense of pride for their treasured culture. provide one of the best security systems a home could have, but it is also a testament and conventional reminder of our faith, as well as SOURCE: MICHALNEGRIN.COM Job Opportunities May Be Coming Your Way cafeteria, there were about five to six recruiters on their Alfred Martinez scheduled days, including school staff, who were looking Staff Writer to assist and hire students for various positions. Among the companies looking to hire students was For the bottom 10% of earners (workers who bring UPS, which was looking to fill several positions for their home less than $12,500 annually), the unemployment rate Parsippany and Saddle Brook locations. Other companies, was 31% according to Laura Rowley who wrote, "Two Job like Columbia Bank, only had a couple of positions to Markets, Worlds Apart." fill, but that did not stop them from gaining interest from This daunting statistic is due in part to the little-to- many students. Also attending these events and looking no education that individuals have, making it increasingly to fill many part-time and full-time positions were: difficult to find jobs. During these fluctuating, struggling Century 21 Department Stores, PSCH-NJ, Inc, Esquire economic times, stock markets and big corporations are Staffing Solutions, Toys ‘R’ Us, Exquisite Home Product, finding it difficult to make ends meat for their multi- Embassy Suites, Council for Airport Opportunities and millionaire executives. The national unemployment Fire Department of New York recruitment. rate, as of February 2010, is hovering at 9.7% (NJ is at While attending the job opportunity event 9.9%). There are some institutions out there trying to help on March 2nd, and listening to some of the recruiters, I people and improve this nation's deficit, by educating and realized they were all looking for prepared students with finding jobs for those in need. These individuals looking resumes that were ready for on-the-spot preliminary for support and improvement through higher learning, interviews. One recruiter, Ms. Ana Medina from Esquire New Jersey in general, can receive assistance from our Staffing Solutions, who was nice enough to entertain a own almamater with support from its Career and Transfer question replied, “We are looking to help young college Department counselors, here at BCC. students get ahead. We are a staffing firm who helps place As many of our readers already know, individuals in part-time and full-time positions, in clerical, BCC has made tremendous efforts in improving the SOURCE: WORLDYWCA.ORG administration, finance & accounting, customer service, school, helping students and helping the public find jobs light industrial and data entry.” by organizing job fairs and many informative events. It has been a long time since people have heard The transfer counselors, along with staff, from the literally park near the entrance of the school off Paramus or seen the words "Now Hiring." When jobs are hard to former Cooperative Education & Career Development Road due to the high volume of unemployed people find, one can only have an optimistic outlook in finding Department, teamed up back in August 2009, to establish looking to fill positions and get back in the job market. work. With the continuing efforts of BCC and employers the Career and Transfer Services Department (CTS). They This semester, such an arrangement was unmanageable looking to find smart individuals, the hope is that this are located at A-123 and C-111 in the Pitkin Center. due to the enormous renovation the school is undergoing. trend will continue. Meeting with the recruiters at these Many people may recall, last year when the Though construction is going on, it has not stopped BCC events is just a step towards earning some experience and CTS Department arranged a huge Job Fair event, which from bringing students segments of the job fair called "Job cash for your personal needs. was open to students and the general public. People had to Opportunity Days." At these miniature events, outside the Transferring to Your Bachelor Pad · Rutgers University Although this is a repeated topic, it should be made known Nicole De Los Santos · Seton Hall University that because of state budget cuts for schools, it is getting News Editor · Saint Thomas Aquinas College harder for colleges to give out scholarships. The higher · William Paterson University your grades are, the higher the chance you have of getting So what lies in front of most Bergen Community Students were able to go from table to table and speak close to a free ride on the road to academics. College students when Graduation Day draws closer, or with college representatives; asking questions in order to The event was insightful as to what requirements even those wishing to transfer to a four-year college? The learn about the reasons why they should consider applying are needed to transfer to other colleges and what is to be long-awaited day for decision time, which is titled ‘Transfer to the respective schools. The event was both helpful in expected in regards of what a student should aim for when Day’ was held on March 17th in the student cafeteria. ways of quick information gathering, as well as with added choosing a new school. The on-sight application made The event started at 5 p.m. and half of the bonuses for students looking to transfer. One thing that things go smoothly, but students must still ask BCC to send tables in the cafeteria were set up to display brochures, should be noted is most colleges waived application fees their current transcript to the colleges now, as well as after applications and even those little giveaway pens for four- if students applied then and there or took an application May when school lets out to update the desired schools on year local schools all throughout New Jersey, as well as a with a signed note from the representative for mailing-in, how they are doing in their current college. Students who few in New York, came to BCC in the hopes of drawing in which aided students who wanted to apply to more than are transferring when Spring 2010 comes to an end should the fresh, new alumni for the upcoming semesters. one school, but could not afford all the application fees. start sending out applications and transcripts as soon as Participating colleges were: With so many choices available, it is likely that there possible before all spots are taken, or they might just have · Berkeley College is a vast amount of questions a student would want to ask a to wait for the next semester to come around. · Bloomfield College college representative. Some questions in regards to grade · Caldwell College point average minimums, tuition, scholarships, transfer · City University of New York of all or some credits, dorming and application deadlines · College of Saint Elizabeth were the main topics that could be heard coming from · Columbia University (General Studies) curious students. · Dominican College As it turns out, most colleges want a minimum of · Fairleigh Dickinson University 2.0-2.5 GPA. Tuition depends on what major and courses · Fashion Institute of Technology are taken. Depending on college admittance credits, most · Felician College credits between 60-70 are accepted. Scholarships are · Fordham University listed in brochures and depend on the applicant’s grades. · Iona College Dorming is available in all places and most application · John Jay College deadlines are either in the first week of April, June—or · Kean University best of all, rollover deadlines so that a student could apply · Mercy College at any time. · Montclair State University Most students are probably in awe at the average · New Jersey City University answer of a 2.0-2.5 GPA minimum for application, but it · New Jersey Institute of Technology should be made clear that all representatives had the same · New York University (Steinhardt) response, “It’s okay to have the minimum, but your chances · Pace University are even better the higher it is.” The 2.0-2.5 minimum was · Ramapo College the average, some colleges asking for 2.7, 2.8 and even 3.7. Page 6 BCC News April 2010 Toyota Recall

Travis Weite Copy Editor

The trust that consumers once had in Toyota cars is now dwindling among American consumers. This of course is in response to the send massive number of recalls that Toyota has experienced an electrical since September of 2007. The purpose of these recalls message to a is due to acceleration problems, in which vehicles would computer aboard the vehicle, which would accelerate without drivers being able to brake. There have send another electrical message to the car The 2010 Toyota Camry that has been recalled since 2007 been three major recalls to address the three reasons why that signaled it to brake. These computers this was happening to vehicles. were malfunctioning in vehicles, which SOURCE: TOYOTA.COM The first recall, which was September 26th, 2007, was rendered the brake pedal useless. a result of accelerators being caught underneath oversized Many consumers are now turning away from Toyota, Toyota drivers of being the problem by saying that the floor mats. The cars that had been recalled for this reason which is good news for American car companies. acceleration problems occurred because “[Toyota] was included floor mats that were not designed for the models Americans are starting to turn to American car companies not aware of how drivers were using their vehicles.” they were sold with. The misshaped floor mat would shift like General Motors and Ford for safety reasons. A Other Toyota executives have even said that American while the vehicle was in motion, causing it to cover the commercial that aired during the 2010 Super Bowl manufacturers of the brakes are partially to blame. But accelerator and speed up the vehicle with the driver being explained how Toyota was working hard to fix the as Eleanor Holmes Norton, House Representative for unable to control the speed of the car. problems that resulted in the recalls. However, kind words Washington D.C. and speaker at Toyota’s Congressional The second recall, which occurred on January 21st, from Toyota will not make up for the 21 deaths that have Hearings, so eloquently put it, “No matter where the error 2010, was due to faulty accelerators that would stick to been a direct result of these malfunctions. Since many in the production line occurs, [Akio Toyoda] is responsible the floor, causing the vehicle to accelerate uncontrollably. Americans drive Toyotas, United States Congressional for any product produced with the name Toyota on it.” The third recall, which occurred on February 3rd, Hearings took place between the Committee of Oversight Consumers have been complaining to Toyota about 2010, was due to malfunctioning brakes that would be and Government Reform and the heads of Toyota Motor problems such as these long before the recalls were made. unresponsive while drivers tried to brake. In older Toyota Company. Toyota has tried to avoid taking the blame for what their cars, the braking mechanism was purely mechanical, The reactions of Toyota Executives have been products do for years; according to some consumers. As meaning that stepping on the brake of the car would cause seemingly sincere, while they try to pass the blame onto of now, Toyota is trying to correct the deadly malfunctions braking pads to squeeze on the tires of the car to slow down other parties. President and Chief Executive Officer of in their vehicles and recover from the recession as well the vehicle. The cars that have been recalled did not have this Toyota Motor Company, Akio Toyoda, was very apologetic as the loss of trust from consumers. It is very important during the Congressional Hearings, but has tried to accuse for Toyota owners to find out if their vehicles have been braking mechanism. Instead, stepping on the brake would recalled, for their lives depend on it. Not Your Everyday Cajun BBQ

Matthew W. Cole Features Editor You are not going to find a better barefoot, bumping seemed to be the favorite move of Cajun singer than Terrance Simien. Simien and the evening. Surprisingly, as the audience his cohorts make up the Zydeco Experience. got more into the music, the band seemed to Zydeco is a genre of music. Basically, it is a become more energetic. fusion of funk, reggae, Afro-Caribbean and “Let the good times roll,” said Simien right Cajun flavors that create a lively sound; not to before he started throwing Mardi Gras beads mention Simien’s thick accent that only added into the audience. They truly took it back to to his Cajun charm. Louisiana with that one. The band really put a Simply put, they play down home lot of energy into each song. A few guitar solos heartwarming Louisiana music. As they played, showed some depth to their band. you got the feeling of being in Woodstock '76. Terrance has also been featured in a They even did a cover of a song by The Band – recent Disney/Pixar film by the name of “The “The Weight” – who performed at Woodstock. Princess & the Frog,” which the audience even Simien and his band had more than just upbeat, had the privilege of hearing firsthand. booty-shaking music; they also broke it down Terrance Simien and the Zydeco with a few slow songs that were perfect to hold Experience are Grammy award winners with a your girl or wife to. lot of experience under their belts. They have The crowd really ate up this Cajun flavor performed over five thousand concerts, toured as the young and old alike danced to the sweet, in over forty countries and touched over a salty melodies of the Zydeco experience. Butt million people in their twenty-five year career. Lead Cajun singer terrance simien hands audience disney magic

PHOTO BY: MATTHEW W. COLE

Pro Arte Chorale: The Beauty of Brahms

Jeff Carbone Contributing Writer

Walking into the Anna Maria Ciccone known as "Ein Deutsches Requiem." Theatre, I did not know what to expect. Throughout the entire piece, there Having never been inside, I had no idea of was a flawless transition from movement the size, acoustics or lighting our very own to movement. On top of the transitions, the theatre has to offer. I must say, they are all ability of the choir to move from pitch to excellent. In comparison to other college pitch and key to key throughout everything theatres, the lighting at Ciccone was great, also impressed upon me the talent of the the lighting technician was right on cue men and women onstage. throughout the entire performance. One detail I almost overlooked as I sat The seating arrangement and intimate back and started enjoying the music was size also struck me, because as the choir the pianists. Though there was only one came in, I realized that there was not a piano, there were two pianists who worked bad seat in the house. I sat up in the back in unison perfectly; something I was very and out of the way to take notes, and had a impressed with. great view of the stage. However, what really blew me away, As the concert got started, the more than anything else I noticed, was the organization and training of this choir fact that the entire concert was in German, was shown. The conductor, David Crone, and all the singers were American. Overall, kept the entire choir on the same page while not something I was used to seeing throughout the pieces. After the first piece, or hearing, it was very interesting. music director and maestro, David Crone, conducting Pro Arte Chorale there was a short intermission. However, the rest of the concert was one piece SOURCE: PROARTECHORALE.ORG April 2010 BCC News Page 7 2010 State of the County

Andoni Demetriades Staff Writer

Bergen County’s Executive, Dennis McNerney, addressed the 2010 State address. He spoke about his long history in the county, how he grew up in of the County, which was hosted by Bergen Community College. It was Teaneck and attended grammar school in Bogota. He and his family now held on campus and anyone interested in Bergen County Politics was live in Ho-Ho-Kus, and then said the following, “My family is attached there. Some well-known faces were, Bergen County Sheriff Leo P. to the County because we know that Bergen is the best place to raise McGuire, the County Freeholders, the County Clerk and many others. our family.” The evening began with a welcome to everyone in attendance He continued to talk about Bergen County’s low overall crime by BCC’s very own President G. Jeremiah Ryan. It was extremely rate, one that has dropped by 9% in the last seven years. Also, our encouraging to see how well-respected President Ryan was in the great public schools, one of which is a top ten school in the entire community. Something that we, as students, should be very proud of nation, the Bergen County Academies. because we are in good hands. There were many positive things said at the State of the County The welcome was followed by the presentation of colors, the Address. As we attend school here in our County’s community pledge of allegiance, which was done by McNerney’s children: Kevin college, we all come from different towns. Each town is unique in and Julia, then the National Anthem and a word of prayer by Reverend its own right, but at the end of the day, collectively we make up what Gregory Jackson of the Mount Olive Baptist Church. is great about this part of New Jersey. Something you can get a glimpse McNerney, who happens to be a graduate of BCC, then began his of here on campus as Bergen County residents. SOURCE: WIKIPEDIA.ORG Voted Sexiest Accent In The World

Matthew W. Cole Features Editor

Now these are The Boys of the Lough, a group of five Shetland and Northumberland provides the band with the This line-up of The Boys of the Lough has been individuals, each with a thicker accent than the last. They ability to touch on a wide spectrum of musical resources. together since circa 2001 and seems to be one of the best performed Celtic music from the depths of their hearts. This is apparent in each vocal performance by meshing teams. Their chemistry and mixing of domestic Cathal McConnell and Dave Richardson are both McConnell and Begley. Speaking of Begley, he played backgrounds provides an unusually strong fusion for founding members while the other three: Brendan Begley, the button accordion about as well as you will ever hear. music. Keven Henderson and Garry O’Briain joined at a later His solo on the button accordion erupted into the audience This type of music can induce an Irish jig in any time. Each of these individuals possesses a great deal of louder than any other song. type of person for sure. The Boys have a reputation for skill when it comes to their instruments. Their stage presence was very easygoing and friendly. technical brilliance and that title is well lived up to as Featuring mostly instrumentals, they strove for variety Cracking jokes as well as sharing funny stories about their they provide music that looks complex to the audience, but with every song. The Boys of the Lough used their 70 completed tours and life back at home. One of the sounds simple and majestic. This was a BCC performance hometown songs to bring musical culture to Bergen’s Anna members of the band was even doing some type of Irish that the audience won't easily forget. Maria Ciccone Theatre. Hailing from Ireland, Scotland, jig in his seat.

GTG Bergen Community 4-23:Transfer Ad 3/29/10 11:09 AM Page 1 Find Out What Berkeley College Offers Bergen Community College Students Berkeley College offers many benefits to the students of Bergen Communit y College.

Widely recognized as unique among colleges and universities, Berkeley College offers a proven approach to career education that provides students with a competitive edge and the skills sought by employers. This innovative combination of benefits is known as The Berkeley Advantage®.

• Small classes for more personal attention • A faculty selected for both academic credentials and professio nal experience • More than $28 million each year in Berkeley College grants and scholarships for qualified students • Flexible scheduling: day, evening/weekend, and online classes • A Bachelor’s degree in as little as three years or an Associate’s degree in just 18 months • Online degrees: Bachelor’s and Associate’s, both part-time and full-time • On-the-job internships as part of the curriculum • A tuition freeze for students who maintain continuous, full-time enrollment • An extensive network of employer connections • More than 20 Career Services professionals who collectively specialize in each field of study and actively pursue job opportunities for every student • Free lifetime career assistance • Seven convenient locations in the New York metropolitan area

As an indication of Berkeley’s success, every year a high number of graduates gain employment in positions related to their studies. Last year, Berkeley’s graduate employment rate was 90%. It’s easy to transfer your credits! Call today to find out how: 800-446-5400 ext. GTG BerkeleyCollege.edu • [email protected]

NY: NYC (Midtown and Lower Manhattan) | White Plains NJ: Newark | Paramus | Woodbridge | Woodland Park (formerly West Paterson) BERKELEY COLLEGE ONLINE: BerkeleyCollege.edu/Online Page 8 BCC News April 2010 How Would You Feel About Ratemystudents.com?

Carina Tesone Co-editor Ratemyprofessor.com has become a classes are specifically accounted for site for students to choose classes based on in terms of rating the professor in a anonymous comments about professors’ certain class. teaching abilities and ease of grading… Check it out at www.culpa.info. and rate their “hotness” with a chili pepper Ratings can also appeal to other emoticon. key aspects about a class. Students Torch previously published an opinion may take into account different piece on ratemyprofessor.com from a teaching styles and workloads in a student's perspective, pointing out that the given course. Professor Troy Miller posts are anonymous and that comments of the Information Technology may not be 100% trustworthy. Department explained that a But what do professors have to say professor’s role is to find ways to about your ratings? help students better understand the “I may have or I might not have just material. “I know in my classroom, posted ratings or comments about various I present the material in several BCC professors on the ratemyprofessor different ways; from explaining site,” began Professor Gregg Biermann the concept, to demonstrating how of the Visual Arts Department. “You just it works in examples, to posing don’t know who has posted what on the site questions about what we are seeing, and really there is no way to know. Would to name a few.” you take the advice of a flunking student? For those still on the fence about Or how about posts that professors write ratemyprofessor.com, Professor about themselves? Are those reliable?” David Pallant of the Communications Professor Biermann also pointed out Department said it best, “For and that there are much more effective ways against it. I think that there’s value to find out more about your professor. to it, but it’s not that valuable.” He “My advice is to begin by reading one of explains how one student commented their publications or attending a public on the site that Professor Pallant gives presentation that they might be giving. pop quizzes, when in truth he does A student potentially then might find out not; the student just so happened to something about who this person that is not have known that there was a standing in front of a class is!” quiz that day and may not have been Surprisingly, other professors following the syllabus. encourage use of course rating sites, but But who is going to delve into suggest Bergen to organize their own those little details when they see online domain of ratemyprofessor.com; comments like that on the first page? much like Columbia University has for Those who believe their students. ratemyprofessor.com is great can “Students should start their own make some valid points; until you Bergen rating site, because it can result in come across comments for a teacher more meaningful data,” said Dr. Denise or class that seem to not do any justice Budd from the Visual Arts Department. for the professor or the students. The Dr. Budd previously worked in Columbia typical “Boring-Easy A” and “Don’t University, and remarked, “True, a four- take this class” comments are just year institution has more time to invest a few of the vague, the funny and themselves.” However, she also sees the ugly opinions splattered all over ratemyprofessor.com as an opportunity the site. If we rate our professors, it for improvement. Features of the site demonstrating Columbia’s effective ratings, in might as well be constructive criticism that both professors and students can benefit from. comparison to ratemyprofessor.com, include: a text box to briefly describe workload; the Of course, the “Red Hot Chili Pepper” will remain as a cute and amusing icon, making site being student-run, much like running your own club/website; and core curriculum any professor's day. ILLUSTRATION BY: BRAD GORE

Cotsakos College of Business at William Paterson university NEW JERSEY CITY UNIVERSITY EMPOWERED

Tony Lopez Majors: Accounting and SPRING Business Administration OPEN HOUSE your next investment. SATURDAY, APRIL 17 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. NJCU has everything you need to succeed, personally and professionally, in the global economy. High quality, relevant undergraduate and graduate programs. Acclaimed, supportive faculty. 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Beautiful, convenient campus. Outstanding value. Build your Portfolio at William Paterson Apply now. Tony is a financial whiz who likes to examine the market from the inside university. Admissions application fee will be out. But he’s also a people person who’s intensely interested in the waived for all students who attend. human factor. The Cotsakos College of Business at William Paterson University showed him how to blend both into an incredible career.

your next Undergraduate Sunday, April 25 ...... 12:00 p.m. open House. Programs EmpoweredU.NJCU.edu

Build your Portfolio at William Paterson university.

TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT, PLEASE CALL (866) 586-7823 OR E-MAIL [email protected] Plan your next move at wpunj.edu/undergraduate. 2039 KENNEDY BOULEVARD, JERSEY CITY, NJ 07305-1597 April 2010 BCC News Page 9 BCC Keeps On Giving

Perpetua Romain Staff Writer Bergen Community College Since the recent devastation in Haiti clubs held a bake sale. There are about 150 students and staff of Bergen Community donation cans circulating the school so that College have utilized each day to aid the students and staff of Bergen may donate- Give till it HELPS! victims in need. "Give 'Till It Helps" is -but the donating does not stop there. a very successful relief campaign, put On April 22nd, Earth Day, students of Student Club Organization Campaign together whole-heartedly by all the faculty the Environmental Club, as well as the advisors of BCC. Community Services Club, will join forces Please contribute $1 to help us reach our goal of $10,000 for Haiti Immediately after Haiti's earthquake to create an event called "Sustainability took over news headlines, every faculty For the Earth and Community," which will member at Bergen contacted one another be held in the cafeteria. to find ways to get our college involved in Numerous tables will be set up with aiding Haitians. Professor Lori Talarico, information and other ways to donate; the club advisor of the Community Service not only to aid the victims in Haiti, but Club, was determined to get more students to help everyone around us as well. This involved in community service to better includes, but is not limited to, bake sales, more than just the community around us. information on animal shelters and even a Therefore, "Give 'Till It Helps" is a joint- donation of prom dresses for the girls who $10,000+ service consisting of all the clubs at BCC, do not have the means to purchase one, $10,000 working together under the umbrella of the but would love to have their dream Prom $9,500 Community Service Club, which Talarico night. African Student Union $9,000 Albanian Student Association oversees. There is also a major weekend Anime Club $8,500 Art Club B.C.C. Health Club $8,000 This is the first time that BCC has music concert that will be held Bergen Lit Business & Finance Club $7,500 put together a huge project such as this. in order to raise money after Black Student Union Chemistry Club $7,000 The proceeds from three non-profit students return from Spring Break. Chess Club Chinese Club $6,500 organizations, as well as the proceeds Students are encouraged to participate Community Service Club Criminal Justice $6,000 of "Give 'Till It Helps," are donated to as much as they can to continue to aid Christian Student Association Dance Club $5,500 "Doctors Without Borders," "Habitat For the unfortunate inhabitants of Haiti. The Debate Club $5,000 Dental Hygiene Humanity" and "Save The Children." Our "Give 'Till It Helps" relief campaign began Early Childhood Association $4,500 Environmental Club financial goal for this relief campaign in January and will end on May 31st, Filipino American Association $4,000 Fitness Club program, as a BCC family, is to reach but our care and helping hands do not GLBT $3,500 Hillel Club $10,000. have to cease on this date. Students, staff Honors Association $3,000 International Student Association "The Give 'Till it Helps" campaign is and faculty of BCC can now, and in the Italian Club $2,500 LASA unique in that it encompasses all of the future, donate to the credible, non-profit Math Club $2,000 Media Club college's fundraising efforts for Haiti," says organization, the R.O.S.E. Foundation of Model UN $1,500 Muslim Student Association $1,000 Talarico. "Any club or organization that is Haiti. Music Interactive Club Nursing Club $500 doing a fundraising project is supporting Members of the foundation will depart Out of Homeostatis Club Paralegal Club $0 the same cause: the BCC Haiti Fund. If for Haiti on April 17th, to distribute Peace Club Philosphy Club (LOGOS) every student at BCC donated $1, the goal duffle bag survivor kits from their Phi Theta Kappa Ping Pong Club of $10,000 is easy." No doubt, this is an "Operation: Drop A Duffle" program, Polish Club Psychology Club Respiratory Therapy Club easy goal, especially since we are a school and will be returning to Haiti again this Rotary Club Student Activites Board with a population of over 15,000 students. year. Donations of any form, including Student Government Association Shy Club Many clubs at BCC have taken the survival supplies are highly encouraged S.T.A.R. Club Theatre Club initiative to raise money alongside each and accepted. For more information on Torch Turkish Club other and individually as well. The African what to donate or how to participate in Video Game Club Student Union began a T-Shirt drive to the" Drop A Duffle Program," visit www. Women's Club send clothes to Haiti, the International rosefoundationofhaiti.org. Student Association sponsored a student designed T-Shirt sale and many other For more information, please contact Professor Lori Talarico at [email protected]. Page 10 Opinions and Editorials April 2010 The Torch Mother, why are you crying? AYELET SHIMRON, Editor-In-Chief CARINA TESONE, Co-Editor TRAVIS WEITE, Copy Editor NICOLE DE LOS SANTOS, News Editor MATTHEW COLE, Features Editor CARLO SANTELLI Sports Editor RUWAN MAHAYAGE, Layout Editor NITA LIM, Layout Editor DAWN FOSTER, Layout Editor ISLAM ELSHAMI, Ad Manager PROF. LEW WHEATON, Advisor ILLUSTRATORS BRAD GORE BRENDON MIEL STAFF/CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CESAR ALVAREZ JONATHAN SHIMRON DALIA MORILLO LYDIA SNYDER STEPHEN ZHENG CHRIS RAGHOOBAR RACHEL KAMINER KATRINA MARIE BOTTI BENJAMIN DE BRASI ANDONI DEMETRIADES A. MARTINEZ EMILY PRENDERGAST FRANK REVOLLI PERPETUA ROMAIN

CONTACT INFO Deforestation in Ethiopia SOURCE: ETFF.ORG 400 Paramus Road Ayelet Shimron Paramus, NJ 07652-1595 Editor-in-Chief ROOM: B-101 Man has been given the gift of As we progress onward in life, the creatively build the world, all the while reason, with the potential to create, more we get handed to us; we willingly ultimately destroying it. PHONE: so that he can build on it. In contrast, indulge in the abundance of it all, yet Reality has become waking up in the 201.493.5006/5007 throughout existence, man has not been unceasingly hunger for more. morning, going to school, graduating, creating; man destroys. Forests vanish, We are constantly experiencing getting married, raising a family, then E-MAIL: rivers dry up, wild life becomes extinct, evolution all around us. From the death of death; but whose reality is this? Is this [email protected] global warming drastically worsens and a plant to its rebirth, from one summer’s the reality we have made for ourselves or the land grows weaker every day. end to another summer’s entrance, from just a mere perception of what we expect Earth survives significant, volcanic sunrise to sunset and back again, from of ourselves? People get punished for For News and Op-Ed eruptions, tectonic cataclysms and procreation to extinction; we are all a vandalizing the property of others, but [email protected] the glacial epoch. We live in an age part of life’s continuous rhythmic cycle. when humans puncture massive holes of compulsiveness. What mankind is Our purpose should be to ascend into God’s home by building factories For Features causing is nothing short of clicking to levels superior to our knowledge, and toxin producing automobiles, these [email protected] the fast forward button, while blindly knowledge that is only attained by crimes go unnoticed... or so we’d like to escorting themselves to their own doom. those who are able to truly embrace believe. We are the cancer to our planet Life is a pattern of configurations, in their surroundings. Rather than go with and the cure to cancer starts with us. For Sports which we are all a piece of its intricate the current of what others perceive We will be destined to search the [email protected] design. What we neglect to realize is as “normal,” we must deviate from universe for a new abode because we that nature is the dominant life present that comfort zone. We must begin by will have transformed Earth into a place THE TORCH, a member of the Associated on planet earth, not us. What nature was, preaching the right message. We cannot inhospitable and uninhabitable. Unless College Press and the College Media "once upon a time," willing to share with reach those higher levels of serenity we act NOW, society must hope that Association, is the official student newspaper humanity, we have taken advantage of, until we have conquered total awareness the people’s ability to overcome natural of Bergen Community College. The purpose in abundant quantities, and now she and love for ourselves. disasters will keep pace with nature’s of THE TORCH is to report on the events at naturally plots her revenge. You cannot photoshop the colors ability to create them. BCC and the local community, and to offer the The dilemma is, rather than learning of a sunset and expect to achieve its This time, the war is within to create a true individual, we lack the natural elegance. As I was driving home ourselves; we are our own enemy. The BCC community a forum for expression. The power to question authority or think one day, I noticed the sun setting on ideal approach is catalyzing change. opinions expressed in THE TORCH are not for ourselves, and therefore, succeed to the horizon. As I tried to get closer to As said by an ancient Native American neccessarily those of THE TORCH. All the establish an unclear understanding of get a better view, it suddenly became Wisdom, “You must teach your children materials submitted to THE TORCH become right from wrong. progressively more difficult to maneuver that the ground beneath their feet is the property of THE TORCH. Manipulation is a device that has in and out of buildings, and steer around ashes of your grandfathers. So that they been used to stabilize humanity for past the billboards that were blocking the will respect the land, tell your children Corrections ages. Regardless of what your personal sun's ability to glow. By the time I that the earth is rich with the lives of system of beliefs may be, we can all reached, what I considered to be, a our kin. Teach your children what we The Torch strives for the highest journalistic confirm that nature was here first. It decent perspective, the sun had already have taught our children; that the earth standards and accuracy. Readers are withstood every period of evolution, set. I came to the realization that, in is our mother. Whatever befalls the encouraged to contact us if they find any every natural disaster, every test of time life, people’s awareness becomes merely earth befalls the sons of the earth. If throughout history; ultimately proving a perception of reality, fogged up by men spit upon the ground, they spit upon mistakes in any edition of the Torch. to be the dominant source of life. mind pollution, caused by the attempt to themselves.” Editorial and Opinion Pieces As an open public form, The Torch welcomes guest opinion pieces and letters to the editor from any member of the Bergen Community College community. Materials should be submitted to [email protected] or delivered to The Torch office, B-101. Such submissions must include the writer’s name, contact information and affiliation with the college. Students should include their major; faculty and staff should include campus title or position. Opinion pieces are limited to 600 words and letters to the editor to 200 words. The Torch reserves the right to edit and to refuse publication of any submission. April 2010 Opinions and Editorials Page 11

Roving Reporter CERT to the Rescue at BCC Alfred Martinez, Juan Saliba Staff Writers Alfred Martinez, Stephen Zheng Staff Writers “What have you found to be the most During the weekend of March 13th efficient study method when preparing for through 15th, violent winds and heavy a test, midterms, finals, etc?” rain devastated several New Jersey homes and institutions, causing severe damage to many residences. Here in Rasean Blain Bergen County, thousands of residents were affected by this brutal storm. Major: Counseling The storm caused major power outages and flooding that overflowed "Going over the notes the teacher gives many rivers, as well as causing flooding in class, and making sure I take good notes to numerous homes. in class, so that I can go over them later on. Acting as a major relief to Repetition of terms, names and dates helps the unfortunate people who had to me out." leave their homes due to the bad weather was CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), which is a Barbara Space part of the OEM (Office of Emergency Management). This specially trained The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) taking a Major: Early Childhood group of individuals is made up of role in emergency prepardness projects in their community Education volunteers who come together to SOURCE: CITIZENCORPS.GOV/CERT help those in need. The CERT volunteers, "Group studying because I like to study along with their coordinators, train at Two individuals who contributed to with people, I cannot study by myself. I various municipalities within their towns and organizing the relief were Gidget Petry, an learn more when I interact with others and prepare for terrorism, fire safety and disaster OEM coordinator, and Marie Jardine, BCC’s it's a fun way of learning, plus I like to talk emergencies. own Assistant Director of Public Safety and very much." With the assistance of the BCC CERT CERT coordinator for the college. When asked Program, on the Paramus campus, individuals about how many people were estimated to fill were able to seek shelter, food and personal up the gym, Petry’s response was, “Hopefully Brian Perez assistance to help them get through their harsh none, I would prefer that people in need have situations. The BCC CERT Program assists in families or friends that can help them out. Who Major: Biology training students and is recognized for helping wants to stay in a shelter? If not, the CERT victims in terrible times. In the gym at BCC, a volunteers and myself are here and ready to "Having a friend or my girlfriend help service those who are in need.” me study. I always find it easier to be tested maximum of 150 cots were ready to be set up by others on new material because certain for those displaced. things they say help me remember the material."

Ali Starzyk Major: Sociology "I think the most efficient method to study is involving yourself in group discussion. Sometimes you may only understand certain aspects of a topic, and if you're allowed to engage in the exchanging of ideas with other classmates on the subject, it becomes easier to understand." Melanie Hernandez Major: Psychology "I start studying from day one when classes begin, so that I can understand everything completely and know what is going on. If you start studying too late or mid-semester, then you are completely lost and it becomes harder to catch and pick things up." Comin’ Out and Bein’ Proud Katrina Marie Botti changed dramatically. It was hard enough being a woman, let alone Staff Writer being a woman who was attracted Being a girl of my stature, no one to other women. My friends and in a million years would believe that family love me, so they completely I have a homosexual tendency. At the understand, but being in the scene, age of twelve I began to consciously I can see how difficult it is to be grasp that I was a lesbian. Although, brave enough to come out. Not only at that age many things are constantly is it scary to not be accepted in my in question and I thought it was community, it is even scarier to simply a phase, something I would realize that my sexual orientation is grow out of. Apparently, that was not not accepted globally. I personally the case. am proud of who I am and would As I grew older my feelings like to help others be proud of who toward females only grew stronger. I they are no matter what they do or had experimented with both females believe in. I believe you should stand and males. I was in denial about up for what you believe in and be my sexuality. Being with a former who you are. boyfriend, for about four years, I When I had entered BCC for my knew at that point I was meant to be first semester, I had joined the GLBT with a woman. Being involved with Club. Joining GLBT has given me him only made me realize I was the courage and the strength to be more attracted to women. who I really am. I hope, in the future, Since I have announced to my to help young people like myself to loved ones, family and friends that not have fears of being judged for I am indeed a lesbian, my life has being who they were born to be.

SOURCE: MCTCAMPUS.COM

We are looking for...... and we do pay The Torch Writers and Reporters, Photographers, Cartoonists, for your services Those Interested in Graphic and Web Design ...is hiring! Please attend a meeting, held in B-101, every Tuesday at 12:30 for more information Page 12 Features April 2010 The Gods vs. Titans

Ben De Brasi Contirbuting Writer It is finally here! After years of following Kratos, "God of War III," the Greek mythology inspired trilogy has arrived. The question is: does it live up to its hype? In terms of visceral violence and grand scale, this game has no equal. Though the series has always been known for its brutality, "God of War III" takes it up a couple of notches. Deaths are shown in excruciating detail, nerve endings and all. Everything from the character models and the environment to the lighting and shadowing is superb. "God of War III" provides the player with breathtaking environments. The scale of the game is epic. Fighting legions of undead while on top of a moving titan is an experience SOURCE: IGN.COM no other game can claim to have. Set pieces are huge and Kratos has some new accessories everything seems so grandiose. However, most of the set reaches the height of its predecessors. Kratos and his need for vengeance. Unfortunately, "God of is just for show and, when coupled with revisiting areas The music is a mixed bag. For instance, while the eerie multiple times, it feels like wasted potential. War III" does not deliver and falls short of satisfying. The and quaint chorus singing in the Hades level provides a story makes little sense and seems lost. The game feels too streamlined. The platforming is creepy supernatural atmosphere, the combat music is easy, the puzzles are simple and the combat is tipped in "God of War III" is a lukewarm end to the trilogy. My lacking. The memorability of the music has definitely recommendation is to rent, as the game is short and you your favor. It is not until you unlock the "chaos" difficulty suffered. where the combat begins to feel like a real challenge, but will have more than enough time to beat it and get all of "God of War" has always been an intensely character- what this title has to offer. even then the game's difficulty is intermittent and never driven game and that has not changed. The story is all about Tackling That Term Paper Jorge Estrella of us, college students. When we wait till the very last minute to get started on a paper, our work is greatly affected. If you are given a week to complete the assignment, it helps Contributing Writer to get started as soon as possible; every bit you do along the way will help diminish some Have you ever spent hours on end, frantically writing a paper for class only to find out of the pressure. that you've received a low grade on the assignment? This is a very common scenario for It is also important that you follow the professor’s instructions, and not leave any many college students. The process for writing a paper can be very tedious and stressful, questions unanswered. If there is one available, follow the rubric word for word, this will however that does not mean that the process cannot be a rewarding one. make sure you cover anything your professor might be looking for. Make sure you format By following these simple guidelines, you will find that writing the assignment to the professor’s liking and use the proper that A+ paper is not as hard as it seems. The first key component writing that A+ form of citation. to writing the perfect paper is preparation. Before you begin, you “ Lastly, it is absolutely imperative that you thoroughly must make sure you have all the proper materials that will make the proofread your assignment and make sure that your writing assignment come along easier. Materials such as an internet-ready paper is not as hard remains consistent and follows a certain structure. Pass it computer and textbooks pertaining to the subject matter at hand are off to a friend that may know a thing or two about writing. necessities for gathering information. The more information you If you follow these fundamental rules, not only will you have, the more you can put into your paper. as it seems see a jump in your grade, but you will also see how easy Also, be weary of procrastination, which seems to plague many ” writing a paper can be. April 2010 Features Page 13 Google...BING!

Stephen Zheng Staff Writer Microsoft announced in May 2009, the indexes and caches web pages, but also release of their new search engine "Bing," takes "snapshots" of other file types which A.K.A."the Decision Engine." This was include: PDF, Word Documents, Excel to replace their previous search engine Spreadsheets, Flash SWF and plain text "Live" and to compete with the king of all files. Google also uses a feature called search engines, "Google." So what is the search engine optimization. What this difference between "Bing" and "Google?" does is help increase a website's ranking on Bing has a couple of features that make Google, making it beneficial to industrial it superior to Google Search, such as the consultants. Best Match feature. This feature searches Beside just a search engine, Google for the websites that best match what the also offers 22 other features such as: user types in. Another feature is called, weather, stock quotes, time, sports scores, Deep Links. This feature allows insight unit conversion, currency conversion, into what resources a particular website calculator, dictionary, maps, movie show has to offer. Another interesting feature is times, public data, real estate, housing, called Interfaces, allowing each website's travel data/airports, package tracking, interface to be customized from global to patent numbers, area code, synonym local information. search and also U.S. Government search. The Google search engine,,on the Overall, Bing is not a Google Killer and other hand, is still the easiest to use thanks the best choice for a user is to just stick to the patented system called PageRank. with Google Search, which offers a better It helps by ranking web pages that match search engine and many more features. The Battle has just begun but the War is far from Over. SOURCE: TARNFAX.COM a given search string. Google not only Health Benefits of Sex Thrust. One… two... same journal supports research which states that frequent Nita Lim hold. Repeat. These intercourse is associated with lower diastolic blood Staff Writer moves may be saved for pressure in cohabiting participants. the bedroom, but the A study done at the State University of New York in positive affects they have on your body follow you way Albany suggests that semen acts as antidepressant. “The beyond. The positive effects of sexual pleasure can bring data is consistent with the possibility that semen may couples closer together as well as aid in one's health and antagonize depressive symptoms and evidence which mental well being. shows that the vagina absorbs a number of components In the heat of the moment, as your skin beings to tingle, of semen that can be detected in the bloodstream within a your breathing becomes erratic and you feel your heart few hours of administration,” said an author of the study. beating out of your chest, all your muscles are working Mom always said to take in a lot of vitamin C to fend together to get blood flowing, which in turn is helping your off colds, but according to scientists at Wilkes University cardiovascular health. Researchers in England published in Wikes-Barre, PA, sex also helps boosts immunity. a study in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Engaging in sex once or twice a week has been linked Health and found that having sex twice or more a week to higher levels of antibody called immunoglobulin A or reduced the risk of fatal heart attack by 50% for the men in IgA. Those help protect you from colds and infections. comparison to those who had sex less than once a month. During sex specifically, orgasms release the hormone The major health benefits of sex are lower blood oxytin, which helps promote sleep and us, college students, pressure and an overall reduction of stress. Research done know the importance and value of sleep. This hormone in Scotland, reported in the journal Biological Psychology, also increases endorphins that in turn cause pain to lessen. Ready to work out? ILLUSTRATION BY BRENDON MIEL found that those who engaged in sexual behavior have a Girls know how PMS symptoms can sometimes decline better response to stress. A different study published in the after sex, now you know why. Page 14 Features April 2010 Suriving BCC, Pregnant

Alfred Martinez Staff Writer

Attending college can be a very rewarding experience, and many things can happen during the 2-4 years you are there. One of which is getting preagnant. So how is it that a pregnant woman can survive attending classes at BCC? The anatomical and physiological nature of a woman goes through many changes during the first, second, and third trimesters. Concentrating on class work, homework and exams is another ongoing process. Being pregnancy while having to juggle classes in between, can be a very exhausting and stressful experience for any woman trying to get ahead in life. Women experience many symptoms and signs of being pregnant, some are: morning sickness, body aches, breast changes, fatigue, sleep disorders, swelling, leg cramps, urinary frequency, dizziness and several other conditions, which should all be consulted with a doctor. One must ask him or herself, with so many changes all at once, what keeps a pregnant woman going? I spoke to two fulltime, BCC students, both in their third trimesters and asked them a few questions on how they are handling being pregnant while staying focused on school.

Valerie Gushiken Charity Garcia

Valerie Gushiken is Japanese/Brazilian, born in Brazil and has been living in and completing a four year college." America for the past two and a half years. C: “I plan on finishing my 2 years and transferring to a 4 year university.” Charity Garcia is a Puerto Rican/Dominican Latin American, 28 yrs. Old, and resides in Englewood, NJ Q. "How have you been able to cope with school and being pregnant?" V. "Thankfully, I think I’ve done fine." Q. "So what are you expecting?" C. “It’s very difficult, sometimes you don’t feel good and it’s hard to get out of Valerie. "I’m expecting a baby girl." bed.” Charity. “I’m expecting a boy which will be my second child.” Q. "What suggestions do you have for women who are in similar situations like Q. "Are you excited about having your child?" yours?" V. "Yes, very excited, this going to be my first child. I'm due in a few days." V. "Given the environment which demands a lot from you, I would say, don’t give C. “I can’t wait, I feel tired, and I am due in May.” up. Enjoy being pregnant and find a way to balance your routines." Q. "I’m happy to hear that, good luck, so what keeps you motivated to continue C. “Do the best you can and be open with your professors about the pregnancy.” going to school?" V. "I really want to finish so I can get ahead in life because it’s very necessary now After brief conversations with these two individuals, one can only gain a great deal a days and my baby keeps me going also." of respect and admiration for the commitment they have exuberated. It is definitely C. “My daughter and the baby on the way, somebody has to make some money.” a complex period, which requires strength of mind and the will to move on. Women in similar situations should take heed from these fine individuals and put their best Q. "How far do you plan on attending college?" foot forward. College can be a rewarding experience, and even more rewarding when V. "This is my second semester and I’m taking twelve credits. I plan on going to accompanied by the obstacle of being pregnant. PHOTO BY: ALFRED MARTINEZ Tame the Monster Inside My Dog Ate My Emily Prendergast BDD, which stands for Body Homework...Again Dysmorphic Disorder, is a serious Staff Writer medical health concern, mostly You look at the clock and Jeff Carbone affecting women and their self-esteem. see you have five minutes This psychological anorexia disorder literally controls and takes over a Contributing Writer before class and suddenly person’s mind. A common characteristic of BDD is the constant need you begin to sweat. You to over analyze physical features. Although many people have felt sweat because you did not dissatisfied with their body at some point in their life, people who have finish your homework that is going to take about an hour to do. BDD are never satisfied with their looks. BDD relates to anxiety and What do you do? eating disorders. Constantly thinking being dissatisfied with one's 1. Use Class Time: Now, I do not suggest doing this physical traits blocks personal thoughts, which may harmfully affect everyday. However, if you have no other time to do your work, physical and mental health. do it during class and hand it in at the end. Your professor will Obsessions such as, acne, facial symmetry, breast size, and weight understand that you forgot to pass it up at the beginning of class. are common concerns that people with BDD have. BDD also causes a 2. Be Honest: Tell the professor in private why you are chemical imbalance of hormones, such as low serotonin. This hormone handing the assignment in late. This is not going to work if you is responsible for our feelings of happiness. In addition, BDD may are a student with ten absences, but if you are a student who is lead OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), GAD (generalized anxiety attentive, attends class and makes good grades, the professor disorder), depression, and agoraphobia, which is an extreme fear of will likely understand. certain places and scenarios. Usually this results in avoidance of 3. Email the Professor: Tell your professor you got swine places/situations. BDD is a continuous snowball effect of one thing flu or just let them know your assignment is going to be late. If, on top of another. This unhealthy lifestyle has many symptoms of low for whatever reason, you are not going to finish the assignment self-esteem, anxiety in public, avoiding or excessively using mirrors on time, email the professor and tell them. If you have to work for constant reassurance of appearance, avoiding social situations, six days next week, email him or her ahead of time and explain and much more. the situation. Professors are people too; they understand and In order to know if someone is diagnosed with BDD, a doctor might give you an extension. needs to evaluate a BDDE (Body Dismorphic Disorder Examination) 4. Technical Glitch: If you know you have time to do the test. This means vital information such as medical history, daily assignment after class, tell a little white lie and say that you behavior, and family evaluation have to be highly scrutinized will get it to your professor right after class. This is a dangerous when being diagnosed. Cognitive Behavior Therapy and anti- idea, but if you think you have the time, tell the professor you depressants are also other ways of treatment. BDD clearly weakens emailed it to him. Then quickly, after class, run to the library, an individual’s quality of life and can influence many around them. find a Facebook free computer, and do it. This is by far the most It is not clear what causes this “disease," but clinicians believe risky idea, but if you are neck deep in trouble, give it a try. the combination of biological, psychological, and environmental 5. Dead End: factors from a person’s past or present may be a cause. Experiences If the assignment is of abuse and neglect can also be a factor. BDD usually occurs going to take longer in early adulthood when self-criticism of then the class itself, appearance generally begins. The media you have no excuse and public also factor in with the for not doing it and obsession and peer pressure of you cannot go to appearance. the library after Do not be too hard class to finish it, on yourself because, tell the truth. If subconsciously, BDD you are honest and does not happen in contrite, professors one day. Slowly it might feel bad and progresses into a give you an extra monster inside Remember kids you can only use this once day to complete the assignment. SOURCE: of you. ILLUSTRATION: LUIS VIANT MCTCAMPUS.COM April 2010 Features Page 15 The Long Distance Eco Spring Relationship Fashion Nicole De Los Santos a relationship with? Spring is finally here, and After you have figured this out, the rest Lydia Snyder that means it is time to shed News Editor flows easily. If you are willing to work out Staff Writer those heavy overcoats and There is a good chance that all of the the distance, then be glad that this is the era jackets and step out into the MySpace/Facebook users reading this have of technology where cell phones, unlimited sunshine. With trees of green and red roses too, spring makes at some point found someone they would text and Skype (webcam feature to see and you appreciate “What a wonderful world” we live in. That is like to get to know over the internet. Just speak with the person) are available. The why Eco-friendly spring fashion is so great. It makes the world one problem: they live on the other side of days of waiting for the letter in the mail to a more beautiful place in more ways than one. the planet, well at least not close enough to come, which could take days, weeks or even Where can you get Eco-friendly spring fashion (and at a see on a daily months are decent price)? "American Apparel," known for their leggings, basis. So here gone and which are still in style, is sweatshop free and twenty percent is the question: replaced with of their cotton clothes are made from organic material. They Is it worth this thing also recycle fabric scraps and use solar energy for their getting into a called the headquarters in Los Angeles. relationship with internet, or Levi Strauss is another company that recycles and someone you will at least by uses organic cotton. This is good news, since denim never meet in e-mails. is a huge fashion trend this spring. Denim jackets, real life? Talk denim bags, denim shoes, you name it and they've This issue can with your already most likely made it in denim. be picked apart significant Denim can also be found at your local thrift or into a million other about second hand store. Throw a cute 10 dollar denim jacket different pieces; when and how from the thrift store over an organic cotton floral print dress, like how far often you can and voila! Talk about Eco-friendly and fashion-friendly. Many away the other see each other. other trends, like various prints (floral, stripes, abstract), can lives, how much Couple uses technology to stay in touch. If sparks fly, be found at second hand stores, since fashion so often revisits would it cost to then again be the past. see them, how glad you have Some other Eco-friendly companies include "Greenloop" often can the trip be done, is there someone cars, Amtrak trains, Greyhound buses and organic cotton clothing, which sells from many Eco-fashion else nearby, etc. The basic fact that anyone Continental Airline planes at your disposal. lines; safclothing.com, which has an organic cotton $11 should figure out before considering doing If it does not work out, then at least you tried blank men’s tee in 15 different colors; and "Toms Shoes," the whole long-distance relationship is, “How and have the knowledge of saying you knew which besides being Eco friendly, is also humanitarian, committed are you at making this work?” what to do. I speak from my own experience giving a pair of shoes to a child in need for every shoe wearing eco friendly Are they a one-night stand fling, until you and freely admit that it is difficult, but you you purchase. clothing feels good and finally do meet a potential relationship may find someone that is worth waiting for. So have a happy spring. And do not pollute as it will looks good. candidate, or someone you honestly WANT kill animals. SOURCE: MCTCAMPUS.COM SOURCE: MCTCAMPUS.COM Living Together Before Chat Roulette Saying “I Do” No Relation to Russian Roulette

seems to be to get hitched. Juan Saliba mily rendergast E P On the other hand, living together before Staff Writer Staff Writer taking vows can have its benefits. This time together can provide an advantage for both to From AIM, MSN to Skype, there created by a Russian seventeen-year-old Thinking about moving in with your get to know each other more before saying “I sweetie? Not sure if it will save a relationship are a variety of ways to virtually by the name of Andrey Ternovskiy. “I Do.” Adapting to your spouses living habits connect with friends. From photo created this project for fun. Initially, or put things into sour mode? Maybe you can prevent future disappointments and should think twice before making a decision. sharing to conducting a video chat, the I had no business goals with it,” says surprises in marriages. technology is there and is improving Ternovskiy. Individuals consider living with their Overall, it all depends on how stable the significant others for various reasons, such as day after day. However, there is one chat He started off by building it for his couple is to merge houses. The people who site that is changing not only our typing friends and himself, but eventually the to prevent loneliness, to help their finances, live together without a plan and a vision or to feel committed. If you have both agreed mannerisms, but the way we verbally fan base grew larger and larger. The of their future will most likely get the speak as well. The site is called Chat site gets an average 20,000 users on a that you want a commitment, consider the divorce. There is no wrong or right answer following information. Roulette, where you never know who typical night. So, care for an adventure? for cohabiting together before marriage. you are going to find. Click that next button and enjoy the Psychologist, Scott Stanley, at the It is something that the couple has to take University of Denver found through his The age range of users vary and ride; you will never know who or what into deep consideration and decide for you can use your webcam to meet new you will find. research that living together before marriage themselves. may increase a couple’s chances of divorce. people. If you do not like the person or In fact, a Denver study shows that out of 1,050 if you find yourself getting bored of him married people, 19% of those who “lived or her, just press next, or F9, to go to the together” before marriage have mentioned next available stranger. The divorce. In contrast, only 10% that did not advantage of Chat Roulette is live together brought up divorce. Dr. Stanley that once you press next, you claims that couples who lived together before will not see that person again they married were less dedicated to their and you will then see a fresh, marriage than those who did not. new face. The cost of living together before Some people have gotten marriage is called “The Cohabitation Effect” creative and worn masks among researchers. The negative effects like Darth Vader or used of premarital living include lower levels of puppets like Kermit the Frog. male commitment to their spouses, higher However, a bit of warning for marriage instability, and more negative those with a weak stomach: communication in marriage. Why is this some have gone a bit too far the case? One explanation is that couples and have shown their privates who decide to live together often have their willingly, but you can simply financial and social priorities compromised. click next to avoid overly This can get very sticky at times, which often engaging in these types of Bcc student, Juan Saliba tries his luck on Chat makes it harder for non-compatible couples situations. Roulette to break up, than if they lived separately. According to www.bits. Instead of calling it quits, the easier choice blogs.nytimes.com, the site was PHOTOGRAPH BY PERI LYNN GLASNER How to Deal With Your Friend Attacking Your Relationship If your best friend and your new boyfriend or girlfriend Katrina Marie Botti start a feud, you will feel as if you are helplessly caught in the Staff Writer middle. No matter what happens, it is best not to favor a side. Favoring a side may cause you to lose either your best friend Many people have best friends who are overprotective, or your new love interest. Keep in mind, your friendship especially when it comes to dating. When you are dating should have a higher value, compared to the value of your new someone, your friend typically looks out for your best interest, relationship. Your friend will always be there for you, but once which is something you want a friend to do. It is a comforting you get into a conflict with someone you are dating, he or she feeling to know your best friend is watching your back. can move out of your life as quickly as they came in; but your Do not feel that your friend is judging the person you are friend will remain by your side. dating. Your friend is most likely nervous and does not want The best way to avoid conflict with your friend and the to see your heart get broken. Your friend is just looking out person you are associated with is to always speak highly of for you, as if you are a part of their family. For example, if you one in the presence of the other. This will let them both know have a family member that suffered from a severe heartbreak, that they both mean a great deal in your life. They both should you would be afraid that he/she would be hurt once again respect you enough to have some respect and not put you in upon entering a new relationship. However, in some cases, the middle of a feud. Despite how annoying it may seem, a your friend's over-protection may be viewed as hostile by the The third wheel in its natural habitat friend who warns you of a harmful relationship will let you SOURCE: HANNAH GALLI guy or girl you are dating. know that he or she is a loyal friend. Page 16 Features April 2010 Picking Up People at a Bar

Ben De Brasi Katrina Marie Botti Contributing Writer Staff Writer How to pick up a guy How to pick up a girl Approaching a guy at a bar can be a scary In many situations, men are nervous to thing. Despite the feminist revolution and all approach a girl. Naturally, everyone is scared of the changes that have been made in the women's rejection. People can feel more comfortable at favor, the cultural norm is for a guy to initiate bar or any place that has liquor, because they feel a convorsation with a girl. Though there is no more relaxed with some booze in their systems. exact science for attracting men, there are things If a guy is interested in a girl he sees at a bar, a woman can do to maximize the odds of a man he should approach her naturally, not nervously, being attracted to them. girls can sense if a guy is nervous. The simple Contrary to what women think, men are not act of going up to a girl lets her know that you all about looks. However, men want a girl to actually have an interest in her. When you start to be presentable. No one wants to date someone approach the girl at the bar, you should not go up who does not take care of their body. The most to her and say a corny pick up line. For example, appealing way to dress would be something that “Are you from Tennessee, because you’re the flatters your figure and is appropriate to a specific only ten I see.” Immediately, the girl is going to know you are not taking her seriously. time and place, but nothing not too overt or showy. Pick up people at a bar not a book save that for the library Nothing arouses the mind more than mystery and A big turn off for women is when a guy is being a little conservative gives the impression of class and self-confidence. babbling on and on about his ex-girlfriend. Men, here is a little hint for you: women do A girl should act flirtatious and interested, but within respectable limits. You do not care about your ex-girlfriend. Do not waste her and your own time talking about the not want to give the impression that you look for a guy every Friday night. The best "ex," it is taboo. There is one big question you do not want to ask a girl, “What is your advice is to be fun and let a guy know you are into him as guys can often be painfully occupation?” The girl will automatically assume that the guy is a gold digger and will no oblivious to what girls deem sufficiently communicative signs of interest. longer have an interest. Girls want you to approach them in a very sincere manner. At the end of the day it does not matter whether or not you get the guy or not, it When guys approach a girl, they should start out very straightforward, and ask for her is about having fun and that is the mentality you should have throughout the entire name. When a guy gets the girl's name and introductions are made, then the guy needs dating process. Remember, not everyone's style is the same and everyone deals with to proceed into a conversation and find common interests. See what the girl likes to eat, attraction differently. Just be yourself and learn from your mistakes and eventually what type of music she is into and do not get too personal. If guys do not get personal you will find your own way of approaching men. and keep it simple, the girl will feel you have respect for her and from there, who knows where it will go. SOURCE: MCTCAMPUS.COM Living the Game 8-Bit Chiptune Bands Play East Coast Tour

drums. They name their influences as Mono and Iron Maiden. Their Dawn Foster music was spacey at atmospheric. Next was Sabrepulse, a one man Staff Writer act from Yorkshire, England, who is the "Godfather" of the 8-bit scene in the United Kingdom. His songs were more techno, trance, Low-fidelity and high-energy is what this "8-Bit, Chiptune Tour" and house-influenced. is all about. The four bands on this tour come from both sides of After Sabrepulse, Henry Homesweet's performance, another the Atlantic. Anamanaguchi, Sabrepulse, Henry Homesweet, and chiptune artist from the UK kept the dance party going, dancing Starscream all produce music using the sounds of old consoles, and kicking himself around. He also uses a Nintendo Game Boy such as the Game Boy, NES and Atari and other synthesizers in as one of his musical instruments. The sounds were ear-candy. the mix as well. “Chiptune” music is where sounds are synthesized Anamanaguchi is a punk band from New York that incorporates by a video game chip. Beginning in the 2000s, new emulators and the traditional instruments, electric guitar, drums, and bass, on cartridges for consoles have helped bring chiptune to live audiences. top of their digital sounds. Besides video games, they name their The "8-Bit Alliance Tour," which started March 5th in New York influences as Weezer and The Beach Boys. The audience practically City, goes down the east coast and will end in Texas for the "South bounced off the walls in the small space that there was and the band by Southwest Festival." was very funny and friendly, entertaining us during a power outage. The room was dark and lit only by a red light on the stage. The Anyone whose childhood involved classic gaming systems can first on stage, Starscream, a two-piece band from New York City relate to this relatively new, fun, and exciting genre of music. who creates their music using Game Boys, Commodore 64’s and SOURCE: ANAMANAGUCHI.COM

The Best,Archer New Animated Comedy Into the Rabbit Hole

Sterling Archer and his sexy cohorts SOURCE: FXNETWORKS.COM girlfriend Lana Kane who is Dawn Foster voiced by comedienne Aisha Staff Writer Tyler (24). Lana is dating one of the nerdy office workers, Cyril Adult Swim fans… James Figgis, voiced by Chris Parnell Bond fans, this one is for you. (Saturday Night Live), when she Don’t be late alice. SOURCE: MCTCAMPUS.COM "Archer" is a raunchy, animated is clearly still attracted to Archer. comedy series on the FX network interesting twist, since Alice's adventures are The show is driven by the Nicole De Los Santos created by Adam Reed (also rapid fire dialogue, jokes on real as opposed to being a dream, according to the creator of Sealab 2021 on Adult stereotypes, wacky characters News Editor novels. Swim). The show takes place at and pop culture references. Absolem the Caterpillar explains that she the dysfunctional International Lewis Carroll’s 1865 novel "Alice’s Adventures was the real "Alice" all along, but that she never Archer describes karate as “the in Wonderland" and 1871 "Through the Looking- Secret Intelligence Service (ISIS) Dane Cook of martial arts” and acted the way in which the real "Alice" did when where all the employees betray Glass" took on a refreshingly new twist with she was younger and first came to Underland. As insults the fat office druid by Director Tim Burton. The tale transformed into a and lie to each other constantly, saying, “Oh, like you'd recognize the movie progresses, Alice witnesses all that has even under global crisis. If 3-D movie that debuted on March 5th. happened to the magical world and its occupants, a vegetable that wasn't wrapped Instead of strictly following the novels, Burton the James Bond series were a in a Monte Cristo sandwich.” dons a suit of armor and prepares for her prophetic comedy, it would be "Archer." has converged both of the stories into one epic battle. The show’s opening credits, narrative. The plot involves Alice leaving a man The show stars a narcissistic, animation and characters' Needless to say, Burton's rendition of the deadpan, insensitive spy, Sterling who had asked for her hand in marriage. Instead, story is very different from the novels, but it still clothing and hair look like they she goes on to follow the white rabbit down the Archer, voiced by comedian H. come from the 1960s and the managed to pack theaters, nonetheless, as people Jon Benjamin (Human Giant, rabbit hole and is plunged into Underland. In flocked to witness the latest version of the famous USSR still exists. However, the Underland, the prophecy of her having to fight and Important Things with Demetri plot is still very modern with tale. The film has a varied cast of people, both Martin). Archer’s job is made defeat the Jabberwocky is laid upon her. seen and unseen; either on the screen and moving their use of robots, cell phones, Questions are raised if this Alice is the real difficult by his controlling, and the internet. You can find around or behind the curtain of computer graphics. hypersexual mother/boss Malory "Alice" everyone has been waiting for to fight The movie is a must-see, whether viewers are smart dialogue, quirky humor, on Frabjous Day, causing confusion to stir. Archer who is voiced by Jessica and action in this FX hit. a fan of the original novels, Tim Burton or are just Walter (Arrested Development). Nonetheless, Alice finds herself thrown around looking for something unforgettable to see that Episodes air on Hulu and on by the characters, as the battle between the Red Making his life even harder, FX Thursdays at 10pm. may have them asking towards the end, “Why IS a Archer’s partner is his ex- Queen and the White Queen draws near. raven like a writing desk?” Burton’s "Alice in Wonderland" adds an April 2010 Features Page 17 Legal vs.Illegal Downoads Stephen Zheng producing music, movies and video Staff Writer games. Illegal downloads have In today’s world, the transfer of affected the entertainment business information, data and media travels a lot. Many music artists have come faster than it has ever before with the out and publicly spoken against illegal advent of the Internet. As a result, downloads. the entertainment industry has been One case was Sean (P. Diddy) affected drastically. Music, movies, Combs who said, "As an artist who television-shows, video-games and has dedicated his life to music and other industry software do not even the music business, I understand have to be purchased in person why people download music. But for anymore. me and my fellow artists, this is our If one knows how to use any livelihood. When you make an illegal form of P2P (Peer to Peer) software, copy, you're stealing from the artist. torrent software or IRC (Internet It’s that simple. Every single day we're Relay Chat) software, then one can out here pouring our hearts and souls possibly gain access to any form into making music for everyone to of media out there. IRC, P2P and enjoy. What if you did not get paid for Torrent are not similar actually, they your job? Put yourself in our shoes!" are quite different. Movie producers like Jerry A P2P network is any distributed Bruckheimer work day and night to network architecture composed of help produce good movies such as participants that make a portion of "Bad Boys," "Remember The Titans" their resources and use it as a server and "The Rock." Such hard-working to help transfer media files to other movie producers like him, deserve participants . IRC, on the other to be paid for their work by letting hand, is mainly designed for group people download his movie for a price communication in discussion forums rather than downloading it illegally. called channels, and have the ability Video-game makers feel the same to transfer media type files, illegally, way, such as Vince Zampella and directly from the site with the Client- Jason West, the creators of the most to-Client application. famous shooting game, "Call of Duty: Torrent any file size and format Modern Warfare." They work really with the suffix -torrent, which hard to create such great games and contains all the information needed they deserve to be paid for it. to download any media file format Millions of dollars are lost torrent was made for. You can get in income tax revenue, sales tax torrent for anything on a variety of revenue and personal income. Illegal web sites or torrent search engines. downloads save you some money, These three are the most famous for but it affects all the media industries using illegal downloads. Yo Ho Yo ho a pirate’s life for me. We pillage, we plunder, we rifle and loot. drink up me ‘earties, yo ho! down to the employees working for an Legal downloads help pay for a hourly wage. Illegal downloads can multitude of different media forms, save you money, yet it is destroying not just the music industry. They help in the production of your favorite video games, our whole media world. Those who download legally help pay hard-working employees your favorite movies and not to mention, all the employees signed on a record label, from that do not make the album covers or movie posters. So you have to make that conscious top paid businessmen to your everyday Joe the Plumber . decision, attain media legally or illegally? Loss of income from illegal downloads means the loss of jobs and reductions in SOURCE: MCTCAMPUS.COM Viral Marketing: Best E-Book Bargain Good or Bad for Movies? Dawn Foster, Stephen Zheng Staff Writers

Going viral doesn’t always mean success.

Cesar Alverez Staff Writer The term “viral marketing” might sound like a horrible computer virus to some people, but in reality, viral marketing is a great marketing strategy to keep people entertained when it comes to movies. This form of marketing begins by using word of mouth and it is used mostly on social networking websites. It has proven to be a recent success in promoting movies such as “Cloverfield” and “Star Trek.” “Lost” producer, J.J. Abrams, is one of the culprits behind this new form of entertainment. It is amazing what this man does in order to get the attention of the audience. Take “Cloverfield” for example; most people do not know that J.J. Abrams created an entire back story, detailing the origins of the monster. Many people have mentioned that they felt empty when they saw the movie for the first time. “I kind of wish I knew the whole story,” said a fellow student when asked about the plot of “Cloverfield.” “Cloverfield” went on to be one of the most successful movies during 2008, but there were also a few movies that viral marketing failed in promoting, such as “I Love You Beth Cooper.” According to a recent Wall Street Journal article, marketing executives at “Fox” hired a high school valedictorian to imitate a scene from the film, paying the student $1,800 to conclude her valedictorian address by professing her secret love for a classmate. The video was then posted online. Few people saw “I Love You Beth Cooper,” as it bombed at the box office, but the article generated enough attention for many people to view it online. To be successful at viral marketing, one must keep the audience interested and create a whole new world. This form of marketing can make or break a movie. This is why studios have to be careful when generating “buzz” for a movie. Either way, this form of marketing has become increasingly popular and hopefully it will be used more in the future to generate “buzz.” SOURCE: STUDIOHALL.COM SOURCE: MCTCAMPUS.COM Page 18 Features April 2010 The Best Things in Life are Free

Whoever said 3. Free Classes Carlo Santello “There’s no free A class at Bergen costs students several hundred Sports Editor lunch” must have dollars, but what if I told you there were free classes, just been too lazy to and even college credits, open to the public? look. Like a good old game of hide and seek, there are Free Yoga classes at Five Corners Branch Library plenty of free products, trips and activities, so long as in Jersey City, New Jersey. Classes run Monday 6:00 one is willing to put a little elbow grease in, and look p.m. – 7:30 p.m. evenings. Call (201) 547- 4500 for for it. The world is our playground, and if you are more information. willing to put in the effort, the sky is the limit. Free Tai Chi classes at Bryant Park in New York 1. Free Food City, Tuesday and Thursday from 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Free lunch? You bet! For the extra hungry and Call (212) 221-6110 for information. eating ambitious, there are a number of culinary Free Pilates Class at Empire–Fulton Ferry State establishments in the tri-state area that offer a meal Park, New York City, Tuesday 7:00 a.m. - 8 p.m. Call that, if finished, is on the house. Pinata’s Mexican (718) 802-0603 for information. Grill located in Bethpage, New York, boasts "The Henry George School of Social Science provides Ultimate Burrito Challenge." Finish two of their accredited college courses in economics and social monster burritos in one hour, and the bill is on them. science. Everyone is admitted and the cost is free. "The Beer Barrel Belly Buster Challenge" at The credits will transfer to every four year University Denny’s Beer Barrel Pub in Clearfield, Pennsylvania, in New Jersey. 121 East 30th Street, New York City. is home to a twenty-inch hamburger patty. This Call (212) 889-8020 for more information. beastly burger holds twenty-five pieces of cheese, 4. Free Trip to Israel three whole tomatoes, a seventeen-inch bun and a To all students of Jewish descent: there is a whole lot of heartburn. If you and a friend can wolf program called "Birthright" that provides a free, ten- this meal down in under three hours you will be saving day, all expense paid trip to Israel! Sounds too good to yourselves a thirty dollar tab. be true? Jewish American-Israeli sponsors have been 2. Free Air donating money to this program for years in an effort Free air? Who pays for air anymore? Well, most to persuade Americans to move to Israel to help boost gas stations charge patrons for filling their tires, and the economy. The program provides a dream-like tour unless you reside in California, where gas stations of this Middle Eastern gem of a nation. Trips take are required to provide free air pumps, you probably place in the summer and winter, but you're better off have handed over a fist full of quarters throughout the applying early to ensure a spot. Airfare, food, hotel years. Several gas stations in the area do provide free accommodations and transportation are all included. air, and I highly suggest you patronize their businesses 5. Free Kayak on the Hudson River as a thank you: Parwood Sunoco, 50 East Midland Between May 16th and October 1st, take advantage Avenue, Paramus, New Jersey, Paramus Discount of the NYC Boating House’s free kayak rental. Tires on Route 17 South and Clifton Sunoco at Van Entirely volunteer-run and funded by donations, Houten Avenue & Clifton Avenue, across from Clifton anyone can kayak out into the Hudson River for a City Hall. day on the water, or even a great workout. Free rental 5 simple tips to keep uncle sam out of your pockets. locations at Pier 26, Pier 40, Pier 64 and Pier 96; all in New York City. SOURCE: MCTCAMPUS.COM The Epidemic of Porn a documentary review The 82nd Annual

Nita Lim Staff Writer Academy Awards

Raven Bryant Staff Writer

This past March, movie lovers, aspiring actors and celebrity updaters alike, all tuned in to watch the annual Academy Awards ceremony, better known as the Oscars. Held in Hollywood, California, the Oscars' red carpet occupied the prominent Kate Winslet, Zoe Saldana, Lenny Kravitz and Jake Gyllenhal. And although actress Mo'nique's hairy legs were appalling to many viewers, the fashion and awards of adored celebrities stayed of importance as the festivities went on. Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin hosted the Oscars, both supporting as crowd-pleasers. The audience became even more captivated as Ben Stiller graced definitely an eye opener SOURCE: IMDB.COM the stage disguised as an Avatar. Avatar was one of this year's Sandra Bullock with her Oscar Technology has changed the way many different “Best Blow Job” and “Best Anal Scene.” most successful films, directed things are done, one being how porn is viewed Like all good things, porn has a negative side. by James Cameron. It won the favorite celebrities wore this and who views it. The documentary “Porndemic” Studies have shown that some people have developed awards for "Best Art Direction," time around. Cameron Diaz examines this taboo subject. What other industry psychogical dependecies on porn, affecting half a "Cinematography" and "Best embellished herself in a dazzling could make $10 billion annually? This annual profit million people frighteningly not all adults. Sonya Visual Effects." A few other Oscar de la Renta gown, dusted is more than that of the professional sports and the Thompson, a researcher from the University of winners for the 82nd Academy in gold. Rachael McAdams in video game industries combined. Alberta in Alberta, Canada did research about Awards were Sandra Bullock as an Elie Saab Haute couture Porndemic examines the epidemic of porn and teens and the harmful consquences associated with "Best Actress in a Leading Role" gown with floral patterns and what few laws exist in regards to online porn and the viewing of porn. Her research found that teens for “The Blind Side,” “Up,” for Twilight's Kristen Stewart posed protecting the civil rights of porn stars. Computers and pre-teens are viewing porn at younger and "Best Animated Featured Film" in a modest black pearl gown. provide instantaneous access to millions of sexual younger ages, but they are also viewing more hard and “The Hurt Locker” for "Best Sure the red carpet savored our images to children, but those same children cannot core porn such as BDSM(bondage) and discipline Written Work" in an original most favorite male celebs, but to go and buy a copy of magazines, such as "Penthouse" sadomasochism. Thompson theorizes that empty screenplay, authorized by Mark say the least, black ties and white or "Playboy." relationships and unfulfilled sexual fantasies loom Boal. Each award was presented shirts are not inspiring to creative Porn stars, like Hanna West, used to make ahead for these young S&M lovers. in the same traditional manner. fashionistas. The 82nd Annual $1,000 a month working in the US Air Force, The world of porn and the industry are While the awards specifically Academy Awards, once again, but now makes $1,000 a day working in the porn changing rapidly as more and more children grow claimed the attention of "to-die- took storm in American history industry. Porn also mimics the movie industry with up on the internet and porn becomes a mainstream for fans" and students of the and kept its vow to appreciate award shows, like "Adult Video News" the "Gay norm. Oldies like Larry Flynt creator of "Hustler" arts, stay-at-home mothers and films and their entertainers. Video Guide Awards" or the “Dickies,” but unlike magazine are old school compared to Frank Hu the fashion-savvy surrendered the "Oscars," the awards are more along the line of creator of XTube.com. their time to witness what our SOURCE: MCTCAMPUS.COM March 2010 Sports Page 19 Timing and New Places in Athlos

[L-R] Top Row: Manager Eddie McElroy, Ryan Arnold, Steve Caracena, Mark Edwards, Wayne Smith, Ramzan Nanayez, Thomcsz Dlugozima Bottom Row: Head Coach Randy Brazil, Chris Kailath, Mike Brown, Ismael Garcia, Julissa Douglas, Marcus Brown, Stephanie Orgueira, Assistant Coach Erika Czujko Endurance, speed, agility, and strength, are some of Having struggled through two injury-plagued seasons, team captain, Mark Edwards, Alfred Martinez the key components needed to perform ‘athletics’—a looks to snap a two-year dry spell with a successful spring track season. “After two years Staff Writer word derived from the Greek word athlos—meaning of being injured with hamstring problems, being able to stay healthy is my main goal,” contest. These same components were displayed Edwards remarked, hopeful about the upcoming season. earlier this year by some of our very own athletic alumni, most notably, the ladies’ and On the girl’s side, sophomore, Julissa Douglas, will be one of the team leaders, and gentlemen’s basketball teams. will need to place high if the women are to see any success. “I want to be able to bring With Bergen Community College’s well-recognized athletic departments, will the my timing down and hopefully run a 400 [meters] in 50 seconds,” explained Douglas, record-breaking performances be able to do a follow-up opening act to a new season in determined to leave her mark as she enters her final season at BCC. 2010? The answer is very simple: you take the baton and run with it! Another returning veteran is Ramzan Nanayez, who previously qualified and won at Here at Bergen Community College, the track and field team does not need any the Regional Meetings in the 110 meter hurdles. introduction to figure out what it takes to win and compete, because they have done so, There are a total of 14 participants competing this year for BCC, some of which year in and year out. In the past three years, the Bulldogs have competed in the National include: Ryan Arnold, Mike Brown, Thomas Dlugzima, Christopher Kailath, Mike Championship Meet, bringing home a number of national titles in various events. With Brown, Wayne Smith, Carl Schneck, Ismael Garcia, Stephanie Orgueira and Marcus constantly improving opponents, BCC will be facing stronger opponents than ever, but Brown. The itinerary of events that individuals will compete in, include: relays, long Coach Randy Brazil and Assistant Coach Erika Czujko are confident that their athletes jumping, javelin, shot put, discus, hammer throwing, sprinting and long distance running. will be well-prepared for the forthcoming season. With a target on their backs for their previous success, both the men’s and women’s Honorable mentions from past years, such as Dervel Thomas, class of ‘08’, who holds track and field teams will be facing staunch competition this coming year. With a slew six records at BCC, recently succeeded in qualifying to play in the Jamaican competitions; of meets throughout the tri-state area, Coach Randy Brazil and the team will be looking Kwame Banahene, who competed in the 100 meter finals, and Ricardo Garcia, an forward to their chance to act as the hosts, with the Region XIX Championships to be All-American who competed in the 400 meter hurdles at the National Championship held at Overpeck Park in Leonia, NJ on April 30th and May 1st. Meetings last year, also left a long-lasting impression. When asked about the team’s goals this year, Coach Brazil replied, “Our goal is to And let us not forget that assistant Coach Czujko was also a former alumni, and All- place in the top three at the districts and top five at the nationals.” Good luck Bulldogs! American shot-putter, who BCC is very glad to have assisting in the training of the team. PHOTO BY: ALFRED MARTINEZ Student Athlete Biley Kakou BCC’s Carlo Santelli Sports Editor A spectacular athlete on the field and a stellar Baseball student in the classroom, Bergen Community College’s Biley Kakou is March’s "Student Athlete of the Month." With a grade point average of 3.9, and numerous impressive athletic accolades, Biley Preview has made himself stand out as a model student- athlete here at BCC. Jeff Carbone Born in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, in 1987, Biley Staff Writer spent his youth playing soccer with friends at the local park, and gained a deep love for "the beautiful game" from a young age. In middle school, Biley Coming off an 11-14 record led by the big bat of sophomore, was a stand out student in his village, and gained from their 2009 season, the Mike Ciaramello, a Bloomfield several academic awards for his work ethic and Bergen Bulldogs Men’s Baseball resident. Ciaramello batted .375 exemplary study habits. Team is hungrier than ever. in 2009, and will need to have “When I was around 15 or 16, I was considered Though they lost two of their a similar level of productivity quite good at soccer. A nearby professional team key players from last year, if the Bulldogs are to see sent a scout to my village [and] watched me play,” Jose Padilla, who received success. The Bulldogs have a set a scholarship to play in the centerfielder in the right hander, Biley reminisced. “They wanted me to quit school, ‘Big Daddy’ as his teammates called him, hit the and train with them.” Dominican Republic, and Mike Liam Penberthy, a product books immediately. He took on a full course load, Cassese, who transfered to of Bloomfield High School. Biley decided to remain in school, and upon and was well on his way to earning his Associates finishing his high school education, Biley enrolled at Rutgers-Newark , expectations Look for Pernberthy to have a degree in Finance. After four semesters at BCC, are still high for the 2010 steller season at the plate. Mike Agitel Formation College. He received high grades, Biley has earned a 3.9 grade point average. His but he knew in his heart that something was missing. baseball campaign. When asked DiGuilio, lefty Andrew Calore, plans after graduating are to attend a four-year for a prediction on how the team and Danae Berry will be vying “My mother had moved to America several years university in New Jersey. He is currently looking before, and was working as a nurse for a wealthy would do this season, Coach for the left and right fielder to attend Rutgers, Ramapo, Monclair or Seton Hall. Hernandez remarked, “I think slots. Sophomore Jason Luzzi is Jewish family in Bergen County,” remarked Biley, Athletically, Biley had few opportunities to play almost in tears from the fond memories. “It was we’re going to be good. This coming off a season where he hit in his first season as a Bulldog, yet managed 2 goals team has the best pitching depth .314 and nabbed 7 stolen bases, always my dream to drape myself in a red, white and and 4 assists in “10-15 minutes a game,” according to blue flag. I wanted to come to America!” of any team I’ve coached in my is most likely going to get most Biley. His sophomore season, after proving himself five years here at Bergen.” of his at-bats against left handed In August 2008, accompanied by his younger in the off season, Biley earned a spot as a starter. brother, Biley finally received a visa and immigrated That pitching staff is led by pitching. Look for infielders Eric With eight goals and four assists, Biley earned 2nd Waldwick native Brad Brovero, Gullander, who batted .386 in to the United States. He moved in with his mother in Team All-NJCAA regional team. Teaneck, New Jersey, in a small apartment. who in eight games last season 2009, and Garfield’s Luis Buron “He is a model player both on and off the field,” had an Earned Run Average to also be major contributors in After enrolling at Bergen Community College, commented Men’s Soccer Coach Sal. “I wish I had a his number one priority was to join the soccer team. (ERA) of 3.92, and Ricardo Bergen’s 2010 campaign. team full of players like Biley.” Lazzaro, a 2008 graduate of The 2009 season saw the His love and passion for the game carried over to Biley’s favorite moment as a BCC Bulldog was America, and Biley was excited to apply his skills Passaic High School, who the BCC Bulldogs come one strike when he scored the game's winning goal against coach also expects big things away from earning a playoff and experience to help the BCC Men’s soccer team. Bronx Community College with less than 1 minute Despite his burning desire to succeed, Biley faced from. berth. Let us hope the 2010 left in a thrilling 3-2 victory in the fall. His time on Over on the offensive side season brings more success many obstacles. the soccer team was enhanced by the camaraderie “At first, I didn’t speak English!” Biley remarked, of the ball, the amount of talent and victories for Bergen Men’s of his teammates, especially Wojtek Majerczak and has not slipped at all, with 8 Baseball Team! with a chuckle. “But I soon realized I wasn’t the only Johnny Twinky Cortes. one. The Spanish kids didn’t speak English either!” PHOTO COURTESY OF BILEY KAKOU returning starters that will be April 2010 WWW.BERGEN.EDU/THETORCH VOLUME - 17 ISSUE - 3

Take the baton Baseball and run with it. Preview pg 19 pg 19

Bulldogs in Beast Mode

Carlo Santelli Sports Editor Despite an undefeated 30-0 season, and a #1 ranking going into the NJCAA DIII able to fully catch up. Down at times by double digits, Bergen cut the lead to six points National Championships, the Bergen Community College Men’s Basketball team ended with just over 7 minutes remaining. A dunk by team leading scorer Elgin Brown their storybook season with a loss to Minnesota’s Rochester Community College in the seemed be the turn of momentum that the Bulldogs needed, but ultimately it wasn’t national semifinal game on March 12, 2010. The NJCAA National Championships meant to be as the Rochester Yellow Jackets held on for the 84-79 triumph, ending were held in Delhi, NY, and featured teams from across the nation all vying for a place Bergen’s perfect season, and a chance at a National Championship. as the supreme team in the country. "We ran into a hot team and we didn't play our best game,” commented Coach Sean The Bulldogs opened up Nationals with an impressive 97-89 victory over the Texas Kelly after the season ending lose, adding, “Despite the loss, we had a dream season regional champions, Mountain View Community College. The win, bringing their and have a lot to be grateful for. It’s a tribute to this team and their hard work." season record to 34-0, was quite evenly matched throughout the first half, with the Rochester decisively outscored Bergen from 3-point range, and was shooting well Bulldogs only having a 2 point advantage at the break. But aided by sophomore Elgin over 50% for 18 total points from beyond the arc compared to Bergen’s 3. Bergen did, Brown’s 30 points, Bergen was able to pull away down the stretch and claim the victory, however, outrebound the Yellow Jackets by nearly a 2:1 ratio. and a berth in the National Semi-Finals. Despite the loss, Bergen put up some impressive numbers, with 4 players in double The victory also came with support from David West’s 19 point, 13 rebound digits, including David West, Elgin Brown, Jayvon Beaty, and Derrick Ross. West, performance, as well as an 17 point night from freshman Asmar Edwards. Beaty, and Brown all completed double-doubles as they had their fair share of rebounds "We are very proud of the season thus far,” explained Coach Sean Kelly. “When as well. you get to Nationals and compete against the best in the country, anything can happen.” As for next season, the Bulldogs will be losing many key starters, yet with plenty of Bergen’s winning ways unfortunately came to an abrupt end when they faced the off season training, the Bergen Bulldogs are set to be among the preseason favorites, Midwest Champions, Rochester. Rochester, which went on to lose in the finals to and once again be in the hunt for a national crown. Illinois’ Joliet Community College, started off strong and took an 8 point lead into the "The players we lose have left behind a legacy that will be remembered forever at locker room at halftime. this institution both on and off the court. I will miss them dearly,” Kelly remarked. Bergen seemed to be trailing most of the game, and despite small rallies, was never PHOTOS BY: KAREN HU