Salem State Log Nov. 21, 2008
Transcription
Salem State Log Nov. 21, 2008
“The independent voice of Salem State College students” The Salem State Log Obama Wins! Meservey Supports UMass Sociologist as Provost November 21, 2008 Compiled by Log Staff Photo featured in the November 7 issue of GQ magazine. Vol. LXXXI, No. 4 “Serving the college community since 1927” Voters made history on November 4 as they elected Senator Barack Obama as the United States’ first African-American President. For a Point-Counterpoint focusing on the outcome of the Election, turn to page 16, which begins our political section. College President Dr. Patricia Meservey has recommended that Dr. Kristin G. Esterberg, an Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of MassachusettsLowell, become Salem State’s next Provost and Academic Vice President. Meservey’s recommendation now goes to the Board of Trustees, which was scheduled to meet on November 19 (after press time). Esterberg, who received her Ph.D. in Sociology from Cornell University, served as Associate Provost and Deputy Provost at UMass-Lowell from 2004 to 2007. Previously, she served as Chair of the Sociology Depart- ment at UMass-Lowell and Director of Women’s Studies at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where she was also an advisory board member of the Women’s Leadership Institute. She is on the Advisory Board for the University of Massachusetts Confucius Institute and the Middlesex Regional Council of the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women. Her work focuses on gender and sexuality, social identities, and qualitative methods for social research. She has published numerous books and articles on gay, lesbian, and bisexual identities and social movements; lesbian parenting; and qualitative re- FREE search methods. “Esterberg has demonstrated strong academic leadership in her positions within the provost’s office and held in her portfolio responsibilities for academic programs such as academic advising, international programs, NEASC accreditation liaison, faculty personnel review, and student academic policy,” Meservey wrote in a November 14 e-mail to college faculty and staff. “She worked closely with the provost developing, presenting and implementing a variety of initiatives including strategic and budget planning.” Prior to her appointment as (Continued on page 2) SSC Students Serve Local Community this Month Commission Examining Benefits of SSC University Status Salem State’s mission to obtain university status may be closer to success after a decision made by a commission that is currently studying the benefits of allowing state colleges to become universities. Currently, there are two amendments in the state House and Senate budget that are being studied by the commission. The commission consists of higher education experts, including Secretary of Education Paul Reville and University of Massachusetts President Jack M. Wilson. Other members include representatives from the Massachusetts Council of Presidents and the Massachusetts Teachers Association, the Salem Gazette reported. The commission was created after members from both the House and Senate supported the movement to study whether it would be a benefit to have state colleges such as Salem State, Bridgewater State and six others become universities. As reported in the Salem Gazette last June, “Senator Majority Leader Frederick Berry, DPeabody, is backing a new amendment in the FY09 Senate budget that sets aside between $15,000 and $500,000 for a commission that would study the benefits of converting some of Massachusetts colleges to univer- By Amelia Omar / Log Staff sities.” Supporters from the House include Democratic Representatives Peter Koutoujian of Waltham and David Flynn of Bridgewater. Karen Cady, Salem State’s Associate Vice President of Marketing and Communications, said the commission is a positive step in the right direction. “The fact that they’re formalizing the study indicates that they’re weighing the pros and cons. There have been initiatives before this…. But this is one step closer.” Cady said to the Salem Gazette. The commission will also come up with criteria that state colleges will need to meet in order to obtain university status. Colleges usually follow the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching’s standards, which include having a minimum of 50 masters programs and two doctorate programs, the Salem Gazette also reported. Salem State is currently able to meet those requirements. In contrast, the Salem News reported that, “there are many hurdles facing the effort to turn Salem State College into Salem State University. Lawmakers and state education officials are properly concerned with the potential costs involved and the UMass (Continued on page 2) Student Government Association led Salem State students, above, in a successful effort to collect food and clothing for the homeless, as part of the second annual Community Service Week. Campus MassPIRG Registers 825 Students to Vote Salem State’s public interest group on campus, MassPIRG, registered 825 students to vote through the Voters Registration Competition in October. That number represented 19 percent of the total of 4,347 students who participated in nine colleges statewide. MassPIRG set up tables in Alumni Plaza outside the Ellison Campus Center, in the Dining Commons on North Campus, in the South Campus lobby and at Central Campus to get students to register to vote. “We also went around to classrooms to get entire classes to register,” said Eileen McGivney, Salem State’s MassPIRG Campus Coordinator. The colleges involved in the competition are Bridgewater State, Fitchburg State, Framingham State, Massachusetts College of Art, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Salem State College, Westfield State, and Worcester State. According to McGivney, in 2004 Salem State was the number-one college with the most registered student voters. The goal of “The New Voters Project” was to register 600 new voters and collect 3,000 voter pledges, according to a 2004 Log article. “The [student government] presidents of campuses across the state compete to get the most votes,” said McGivney in Octo- By Shawn Mille / Editor-in-Chief ber. “We wanted to repeat our success this year.” Acoording to the website for MassPIRG’s “Rock the VOTE” group, Kim Marie Cote, Visual Coordinator for the Voters Project, wrote, “Our goal is to run a HUGE voter registration drive to make sure everyone on campus is registered and turns out to vote! We're getting all the groups on campus together to get 90 percent of the school registered.... That's like 5,400 people!” This year, of the nine participating colleges, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts had the highest percentage of students participating in the competition, with 425 of their 1,585 students-27 percent--registering to vote. News THE SALEM STATE LOG Page 2 November 21, 2008 Science Professors Discuss Need for Laboratory Improvements Whether they want to or not, most students at Salem State will have to take a series of lab sciences before they graduate. It seems that if we are going to be forced to participate in labs then we should have the best possible facilities possible. The labs in Meier Hall haven’t changed much since they were built some time between the 1960s and ‘70s. “Most labs here look like they did when they were built. They are vintage at best,” said Dr. David Tapley, a professor in the Biology department. Dr. Ryan Fisher, Biology Department lab coordinator, also feels that the labs are in need of a face-lift. “The labs were designed and built in a different era. In the 21st century they appear tired and outdated,” Fisher said. The labs are slated to be updated and expanded with a portion of the $106 million the state allocated this summer for a new library. According to Fisher and Tapley, one of the labs’ biggest flaws is their layout. The benches are too close together, which creates a cluttered environment and making it difficult to conduct experiments. The rooms that house the labs are in need of repair as well. Some of the ceilings leak, and the heating system is located on the windowsill, which takes away By Dan Dourian / Associate Sports Editor valuable space, according to Fisher. Another issue affecting the overall quality of the labs is the lack of lab preparation areas and lab prep staff. In some cases, labs have to share prep rooms. According to Tapley, each lab should have its own prep room large enough to properly accommodate everything needed for that particular lab. Among the list of tools that need replacing are microscopes and spectrophotometers, devices that measures light intensity. “They’ve taken a beating over the years,” Tapley said. Both microscopes and spectrophotometer are commonly used during the Diver- Communications Department Master’s Program Being Explored; Looks for Salem State Input Salem State’s Communications Department hopes to add three new master’s-level programs that would result in a master’s degree in Media Communications. Dr. Rebecca Hains, Associate Professor of Communications, said that there has “been talk from before 2006” about adding graduate programs to the Communications department. The department was transformed seven years ago, when it became its own department in 2001. According to a press release on the school’s website, prior to that it was within the English Department for 14 years until it branched off. At that time the chairperson said they would then focus on “putting … energies into expanding the major.” Now, a motion towards doing that is being made. Three possible concentrations are being explored, in Strategic Communications, Media Literacy, and Applied Research. “The three would not be all launched at once,” said Hains. And who will decide which would be launched first? An online survey is being launched soon to be complete by Salem State undergrads, alumni, and communications professionals in the North Shore area. This survey will soon be available through Navigator to current students. These three target groups are expected to give people like Hains and other communications faculty a better idea of where the demand lies in terms of what type of a degree is desired. According to information from te Communications department, Strategic Communications covers persuasive communication used by organizations to create, develop and maintain positive relationships with their audiences. The program enhances the written, spoken, and technological skills of students in areas such as public relations, advertising and integrated marketing. Media Literacy develops the technical and intellectual skills used to critique mass media including news, advertising, broadcasting, and the Internet. The program presents methods for students, educators and activists to study media content, media ownership and the media’s influ- ence on audience members and society. Applied Research prepares students to assess the needs of industry and non-profit organizations, using polls, surveys, focus groups, and other research strategies in such fields as advertising, marketing, public relations, political campaigning, and global communication. Professionals living in the North Shore area would benefit from these new anticipated masters programs, to enhance their current careers in the field of communications. Salem State presents a convenient location to North Shore residents without having to travel into Boston. With more than 50 programs of study in the Graduate program now, there’s no surprise that there has been a request from the community for SSC to offer a master’s degree program in communications. The college has been asking for these additions for a while, so based on student and community feedback, it should only be a matter of time until the graduate program is further expanded and diversified. Salem State students Jessica Herrick and April Rachel were chosen to participate in an international conference on youth, identity, and nation building that was held in the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. Rachel, a freshman Mathematics and Education major, and Herrick, a senior Social Work and Psychology major, were the youngest selections made to attend the conference. That makes them the only attendees in col- lege, and the only two Americans of the 43 young adults chosen across the world. Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, is a small country in Southeast Asia on the island of Timor. It has experienced violent outbreaks since 2006, which have includied a majority of the nation’s youth. The conference looked at how these youths can change and work together to rebuild a nation that currently lacks national identity and women with political power. The conference took place from November 12 through the 15. Rachel and Herrick were accompanied by Salem State Associate Professor of Education Dr. Greg Carroll, who is known to have already worked on multiple projects in Timor-Leste. He has also been project leader for a Sustaining Peace initiative involving educational reform and its peaceful affects on TimorLeste. By Amanda Read / Contributing Editor-Elect Students Attended Conference in Timor-Leste sity of Life and World of Cells courses. Other beneficial improvements would include a media projections system. According to Fisher, media projectors would make the process of explaining labs a lot easier for both students and instructors because if would provide an organized visual aide. Both Fisher and Tapley agree that the biology labs would benefit from adding wet labs where students can observe live aquatic animals. “If we had smaller tanks to work with, we could conduct experiments where we could control water temperature and oxygen levels,” said Tapley. Another problem is the limited number of actual labs. As a result, each lab is dedicated to more than one subject. For example, both Biology 121 and 122 could use the same lab on any given day. This makes life more difficult for the lab instructors who have to constantly set up and put away the instruments used during a particular lab. “If we could dedicate them (labs) to specific subjects it would be better for the students,” Tapley said. The problem with updating the labs is that to do so, each renovated lab would be lost for at least a semester. With the already limited lab space available, losing a lab would limit the availability of some courses. system … is not doubt concerned with protecting its turf.” Some advantages to having university status include “being eligible for more grant money, attracting out-of-state students and being able to extend programming,” as well as being able “to offer doctorate programs, something that state colleges are not permitted to do,” according to the Salem Gazette. The Salem State College website states that “Salem State believes that achievement of the university status is a realistic, worthwhile goal, both earned and overdue.” Only time will tell when and if this well deserved goal will be reached. Associate Provost, Esterberg was Chair of the Department of Sociology at UMass-Lowell, and is a tenured faculty member in that department. An accomplished educator and scholar, her publications include two books, with an additional manuscript on public higher education under review, and numerous academic articles. In addition to her positions at Lowell, Esterberg held a faculty position at the University of Mis- souri-Kansas City, where she served as Acting Chair of the Department of Sociology and Administration of Justice and director of Women’s Studies. Esterberg earned her bachelor of arts degree from Boston University in Philosophy and Political Science and her master of arts degree and Ph.D. in sociology from Cornell University. She also attended the American Council on Education Institute for New Chief Academic Officers. University (Continued from page 1) Esterberg (Continued from page 1) CORRECTIONS: In the October 31 Log issue, we incorrectly attributed the “October is Breast Cancer Month” article to Amelia Omar. The writer was in fact Erin Mellor. Both are Log Staff members. News November 21, 2008 THE SALEM STATE LOG Page 3 Far From “Common”: New, Modernistic Dining Commons Open up to SSC Timeless Stories from the Log Archives By Christopher Ialuna / News Editor Originally Printed: January 29, 1998 The spring semester at Salem State opened up with a growling stomach as the entire student body, along with faculty and staff, were greeted to a three-story, $4.5 million, 750-seat new Dining Commons. Officially opened on January 5, the facility is a renovation of the old gymnasium and the old commuter cafeteria located in the Administration Building. It was closed in the fall of 1996 in an effort to begin the demolition and to reconstruct the new café. The goal of the project was to bring Salem State commuters, residents, faculty and staff all into one setting. DAKA, a food services company based in Danvers that has the food contract at Salem State, occupies the first floor in a cafeteria-style setting complete with blue-and- white checkerboard floor. Up the polished oak stairway is a food court. This court contains Burger King, Leo’s Delicatessen, Pazzelli’s Pizza, French Quarter Coffee, and Freshen’s Yogurt. In addition, there are assorted beverages and snacks in the center available to all students. There is also a large area of seating on this floor. The old gymnasium floor is still visible as well. There is yet another flight of stairs that can take you to a third-floor balcony mezzanine, where an enormous skylight brightens the new facility. The renovation was funded largely by the state, which contributed $3.5 million for the construction, and DAKA supplied the remaining money for equipment. The facility is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., although some of the services, such as pizza, are offered until 10 p.m. “It’s really exciting,” said Ed Adelman, director of Facilities here at Salem State. “It’s everything we hoped for and more.” He added that people have responded well, and that there is now a common place where faculty and all Salem State students can go to interact. Adelman participated in design and development and oversaw the building process. The Dining Commons was designed by Kevin Buckley, president of Knight, Bagge & Anderson Inc. of Boston. Shah Construction Co. of Wakefield erected the new facility. This is one of many changes that have taken place and that will take place. Now that DAKA and the Underground have vacated the Ellison Campus Center, there are plans to establish a secure home there for Career Services as well as Health Services. A new carpet has already been added to the main lobby, and efforts are being made to turn the main lobby into a lounge area to help lure students back into the Campus Center. “We want to meet as many needs as possible,” Adelman said. He added that Salem State plans to take advantage of the less-crowded Campus Center to reestablish it further. J OI N T HE LO G! MEETINGS ARE EVERY MONDAY DURING COMMUNITY TIME (11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) Ellison Campus Center 013 THE SALEM STATE LOG Page 4 Editor-in-Chief Shawn Mille News Jonathan Lunde, Editor Matt Trapeni, Associate Editor-Elect Features April Holland, Editor Jacqueline Kamel, Associate Editor-Elect Sports Nathan Snow, Editor Dan Dourian, Associate Editor Nick Colon, Associate Editor-Elect Contributing Editor-Elect Amanda Read Copy Editor Marie Purvinis Production Manager Charline Sath Advertising Manager Marcus Glynn Editor Emeritus Laura Webster Faculty Adviser Dr. Peggy Dillon Financial Adviser Bruce Perry Editorial Consultant Dr. Ellen Golub Photography Travis Ellyson Chris McConaghy Alex Barboza Zachary Champigny Bree Clarke Mike Frizzi James Gardner Glenn Holmes Erin Joyce Chris Lezott Joshua Luke Adam McQuarrie Emily Mellor Brett Nolan Amelia Omar Timothy Page Mike Pelosi Joy Richard Lindsey Roman Morgan Ryan Kristen Sacco Justin Sacramone Jennifer Santos Caroline Schumacher Adam Sherkanowski Christopher Sicuranza Kenny Silva David Silverstein Renatta Siewert Adriana Swim Staff Editorial November 21, 2008 Will You Really Get Rest this Thanksgiving? This semester is slowly coming to an end and students are counting down the days until Thanksgiving break. The five-day weekend is like a small glimmer of light at the end of a dark tunnel that I like to call fall semester. The weekend is a break we all desperately need, or is it? Once we students travel home for break, we throw our backpacks against the wall (with any work we intended to do inside) and immediately call our hometown friends. We hope that this break will allow us to catch up on homework and still have time to de-stress from a hard semester. But is this really what many of us college students will do? For most of us, the first item on our to-do lists is to celebrate the holiday the only way we know how--by drinking. College students and other legal adults will join together on Thanksgiving Eve and consume alcoholic beverages that will fill them up just as much as the turkey dinner that comes less than 24 hours later. You may be thinking that I am making this up in a sad attempt to justify my Thanksgiving plans. Well, I can honestly say that this event is not made up. Once I turned 21, people continually told me about Thanksgiving Eve and how apparently it is the biggest party night of the year—topping New Year’s Eve, St. Patrick’s Day, even the Super Bowl. I was skeptical at first, too, but three years ago on Thanksgiving Eve I learned that this night was no joking matter. If you are hearing this for the first time, the reasoning behind this night (from what I understand) is that it’s the best night to party because all you have to do the next day is lounge around and watch football, the Macy’s Day Parade, or A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving while waiting for the huge turkey dinner to be served. That is, unless you are the unlucky one preparing the meal, in which case I doubt that you went out drinking the night before. Fast-forward several hours.... HAPPY THANKSGIVING! Time for the turkey dinner, a “carbtastic” meal so many red-blooded Americans can’t bear to miss. The reason why many people feel so tired and lethargic after the meal is the turkey. Turkey contains a substance called tryptophan, which was actually prescribed to insomniacs in the ‘80s. Congratulations! You have reached Day Two of your Thanksgiving Break and you still haven’t done anything. Day Three will be no different. Black Friday. The dreaded day for anyone working in retail and the day others wake up at 4:30 a.m. to wait for hours in ridiculously long lines to enter stores and fight other customers for amazing deals. Are they really worth it? How much are you actually saving? If you were among the few people who actually rested, refrained from drinking, eating and shopping, and got homework done, congratulations. The rest of us, who will still be nursing our pre-Thanksgiving hangover, digesting our Thanksgiving meal, and wincing at our credit card statements, we will be even more stressed out than we were when we arrived home for the break. --Shawn Mille, Editor-in-Chief The Log welcomes articles and opinion pieces from everyone in the Salem State community. You must include your name and phone number with your submission. The Log reserves the right to edit articles and opinions for length. Send your opinions to: Editor-in-Chief, The Salem State Log Salem State College, 352 Layayette Street Salem, MA 01970 Articles: news_ssclog@yahoo.com Opinions: editor_ssclog@yahoo.com Editorial: 978-542-6649 Advertising: 978-542-6448 Online at http://www.salemstate.edu/log/ November 21, 2008 Opinion THE SALEM STATE LOG Letters to the Editor: Sociologist Peter Berger once wrote that people who like to avoid shocking discoveries should stay away from sociology. I have been teaching sociology for almost 20 years now, and I am still shocked when I must report to my class each year that 10 million more of the world’s children will die before they reach 10 years old, mostly because their families are very poor. The number of very poor families worldwide is equally discouraging, perhaps as many as 2 billion. Millions of families now try to live on less than $2 a day. So what can we do about so massive a problem? Well here is a challenge for the Salem State community, specifically--although not exclusively--for the resident students in each of our dorms. I think a campus effort to do something for poor children of the world should have a focused identity, such as residents of a particular dorm, as it offers them an opportunity to personally experience the power of positive community action, a lesson that each class can then take out into the world upon graduation. This could be a “win” for all concerned: our students, our school and, of course, the children. Specifically, I propose that each dorm council discuss the option of sponsoring a child through one of the many well-operated international children’s organizations that can be easily accessed on the web. A sponsorship for a child amounts to about $2 a year per resident. Actually, this small amount would sponsor a child for more than a year, so a small cushion might be built up to insure that the sponsorship endures. This small amount goes for food, school, and other basic costs. The child’s family is helped as well. Most of these children’s organizations will periodically send you pictures and updated reports on “your child.” I can tell you from personal experience that this personal contact is deeply gratifying. I do not know of any college or university that is doing this now, so Salem State might actually serve as a role model and example for other colleges and universities. A national movement might start right here at Salem State. The problem is so vast that you might think that helping one child at a time is futile, so let me finish with a story. A man was taking a morning walk along a beach after a strong storm had thrown hundreds of still-living starfish up on the wet sand. He approached a child who was picking up starfish and tossing them back into the sea. He smiled kindly and said, “My child there are just too many starfish on the sand. It is kind of you to do that, but it won’t make any difference.” The child just picked up another starfish and tossed it into the water and said to the man, “It will for that one.” I suggested this idea a few years ago to no avail. Should there be interest this time, I would be happy to serve as a faculty advisor should one be needed. Let’s see if we can make a difference and start a movement to help one child at a time. --John H. Quigley, Sociology Professor Page 5 The Doctors are In! Advice from the Log’s “Love Experts” Dear Dr. Love, I have problem, obviously. I’m a very forward person who makes blatant sexual jokes and don’t think twice about it. I’m a funny guy. However, once again, because of my senseless joking which can be taken as flirting, someone has a crush on me and I don’t know how to let her down without hurting her. Normally, I would just stop talking to the person or just be rude about it. This time, I can’t do it. This person is in my circle of friends and also works at the same place that one of my friends works at and where I spend most of my free time. I want to say no to this person’s unwanted attention, but how do I say it without causing unneccessary high-school-like drama? Should I suggest reading He’s Just Not That Into You or change my number and join the Witness Protection Program? -- Why is it so hard? Dear Why is it so hard, First of all, “that’s what she said.” Second, yes, dating is hard, especially when we live in a day and age when signals are harder than ever to interpret. As I have demonstrated, sexual innuendos are easy to make. Some people just happen to think that any sexual joke is a pick-up line. Now, given that your forwardness and humor are part of your personality, you should know that it’s not your fault that others believe you are interested in them. I have to say that joining the Witness Protection Program falls under the category of “bad idea.” It would be embarrassing to admit that a lot of taxpayer money paid to keep you hidden from a girl who’s crushing on you. What I can say is that you need to have a chat with this person. You can put aside jokes for a few minutes. You need to make sure that you tell this person that you are clearly not interested. Believe me, it’s better to tell this person now than to accidently run into her years later under a new identity. --The Doctors of Love Editor’s note: Should you seek advice, you may either e-mail us at editor_ssclog@yahoo.com or drop off letters at the Log Office in the Campus Center, room 013 (in the basement). Anything sent via e-mail will remain confidential. Drs. of Love are not professional therapists, but is instead the alias of two of our staff members. Page 6 DISTURBANCE: Breach of the Peace, Oct. 31, at 00:04. Location: BATES COMPLEX. RA called to report a disorderly party inside Apartment 3C. Officer reports that the party left the apartment and was found walking on Harrison Road while exhibiting Q5 behavior. Officer reports party was transported to NSMC for an evaluation. DISTURBANCE: Noise Complaint Oct. 31, at 01:58. Location: BATES COMPLEX. RA reported loud parties in Buildings 13 and 14. Officer reports parties cleared out prior to officer's arrival, all in order. Suspicious Circumstances, Oct 31, Friday at 08:58. Location: BOWDITCH HALL. RP states he was notified by a student's boyfriend that she had made comments leading him to believe that she may harm herself. RP requests an officer check the student's well being. Officer reports made contact and that the party is fine. Suspicious Circumstances, Oct 31, Friday at 09:41. Location: ELLISON CAMPUS CENTER. RP reports three individuals dressed all in black, wearing ski masks. Party stated their presence is concerning other students. Officer reports parties are GOA. PARKING & TRAFFIC: Any non-injury TA, Oct 31, Friday at 17:13. Location: CENTRAL CAMPUS. Officer to take a report of a past m/v/a. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Oct 31, Friday at 18:06. Location: PEABODY HALL LOT. Officers checking on parties in Lot D. Officer reports that Mr. Andrew Diamiano, DOB 03/23/90 of 235 Vincent Rd Dedham, Mass, Mr. Mark Elliott, DOB 12/29/89 305 S Franklin St, Holbrook Mass, Mr. William Warner, DOB 10/26/90 2 Cedar Grove Ter Ex Essex, Ct and Mr. Mark Groendyk, DOB07/17/89 74 Golf Rd, Bloomfield NJ, will be summonsed into court for being minors in possession of alcohol. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Oct 31, 2008 Friday at 19:31. Location: PEABODY HALL LOT. Kristen Federico DOB: 01-05-90 of 194 Bartholomew St, Peabody, MA, Kristina Keddie DOB: 01-13-90 of 30 Champion St, Tewksbury, MA, and Leanne Broughton DOB: 03-0390 of 16 Cashman Rd, Peabody, MA will be summonsed for minors in Salem State Police Log THE SALEM STATE LOG October 31 - November 1, 2008 possession of alcohol. Suspicious Circumstances, Oct 31, Friday at 19:33. Location: BATES COMPLEX. Out with a male party who was urinating in public. Officer reports that the party was issued a verbal warning. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Oct 31, Friday at 19:44. Location: CENTRAL CAMPUS. Out with two female parties. Didonato, Victoria DOB: 11-22-90 and Didonato, Casey DOB: 6-11-89 of 111 Ferry Road Salisbury, MA are being summonsed for minors in possession of alcohol. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Oct 31, Friday at 19:54. Location: BATES COMPLEX. Out with two female parties in possession of alcohol. Parties were of legal age. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws. Oct 31, Friday at 20:06. Location: CENTRAL CAMPUS. Out with two male parties in possession of alcohol. All in order. MEDICAL: Medical Assist, Alcohol Related, Oct 31, Friday at 20:15. Location: OFF CAMPUS. Out with two parties. Officer request an ambulance for an intoxicated female. Dispatch notified NSA. Female party was transported to NSMC. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Oct 31, Friday at 20:23. Location: BOWDITCH HALL. Out with two male parties. One of the parties had an open container of alcohol. Citation Number A2272 was issued. Voyer, Michael DOB: 10-21-87 of 27 Matthews Trail, Plymouth, MA. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Oct 31, Friday at 20:28. Location: OFF CAMPUS. Yetman, William DOB: 04-15-89 of 55 Peter RD Plymouth will be summonsed minor in possession of alcohol. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Oct 31, Friday at 20:30. Location: OFF CAMPUS. Out with a party with an open container. Male party had an open container of alcohol party was of age and was advised. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Oct 31, Friday at 20:37. Location: HORACE MANN SCHOOL. Whitney Kali DOB: 10-29-90 of 14 Smokerise Drive Chelsmford, MA will be summonsed for minor in pos- session. Suspicious Circumstances, Oct 31, Friday at 20:50. Location: OFF CAMPUS. Male party was urinating in public. Party was issued a verbal warning. DISTURBANCE: Breach of the Peace, Oct 31, Friday at 21:35. Location: BATES COMPLEX. RA reports of a party being loud. Protective Custody, Oct 31, Friday at 21:59. Location: PEABODY HALL LOT. Male party intoxicated. Mr. Jonathan Armand DOB 04/27/85 will be placed in protective custody for the night at S.P.D. Protective Custody, Oct 31, Friday at 22:21. Location: PEABODY HALL. Transported party to Salem PD. Beg Mile: 81036 End Miles: 81038. Mr. Jonathan Armand DOB 04/27/85. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Oct 31, Friday at 22:30. Location: O’KEEFE CENTER LOT (MAIN). Out with five minors. Milner, David DOB: 11-13-90 of 35 Corey St, Medford, MA and Avola, Anthony DOB: 07-03-90 of 9.Alfred St, Medford, MA will be summonsed for minors in possession of alcohol. Protective Custody, Oct 31, Friday at 22:32. Location: BATES COMPLEX. Transporting Mr. Justin Zerbinopoulos DOB 06/06/87 to SPD. Miles 47528 End Miles: 47530. Party was placed under protective custody. WEAPON POSSESSION: Any type of weapon possession, Oct 31, Friday at 22:47. Location: OFF CAMPUS. Mr. Zerbinopoulos searched at Salem P.D. knife was found on male party. Officer will be charging party with possession of a knife. SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMS.: Suspicious Circumstances, Oct 31, Friday at 22:55. Location: O’KEEFE CENTER LOT (MAIN). Out checking on three male parties. All parties are of age, all is in order. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Oct 31, Friday at 22:56. Location: COLLEGE DRIVE. RA from Peabody Hall reports eight youths with open containers of alcohol. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Oct 31, Friday at 23:17. Location : OFF CAMPUS. Out with a minor. Deleao, Anthony DOB: 11-20-88 of 14 Pleasant St., N Reading, MA will be summonsed minor in possession of alcohol. PUBLIC SAFETY: Well-being check, Oct 31, Friday at 23:17. Location: O’KEEFE CENTER LOT (MAIN). Officer reports out with an intoxicated male. Party is disoriented; party was released to his sister. VEHICLE: Vehicle Stop, Oct 31, Friday at 23:51. Officer are out with Ma Reg 475DJ8 for speeding. Gomes Alex DOB: 05-04-89 will be summonsed for operating a vehicle after license suspension. MEDICAL: Medical Assist, Alcohol Related, Oct 31, Friday at 23:57. Location: HARRINGTON BLDG. LOT (FRO). RA reports that there is extremely intoxicated female party vomiting in the parking lot. NSA was dispatched. NSA evaluated the party and felt that the party was ok. Suspicious Person, Nov 01, Saturday at 00:03. Location: 57 LORING AVE. Out with male parting checking his bag. Party was cooperative and advised. Suspicious Person, Nov 01, Saturday at 00:08. Location: BEHIND BUILDING #1 AND THE DORM. Out to check on two male parties. Officer reports that both parties were unable to be signed into CCRH. Parties were sent on their way. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Nov 01, Saturday at 00:09. Location: HARRINGTON BUILDING. Out with three minors. Mugambi Philip DOB: 05-05-87 of 6 Heritage Drive, Salem, MA, Privette Giovanni DOB: 04-17-88 of 108 Talbot Ave, Dorchester, MA, and Mugimu Faisal DOB: 08-13-88 of 520 Main St, Malden, MA are going to be summonsed for minors in possession of alcohol. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Nov 01, Saturday at 00:31. Location: SULLIVAN BUILDING. Out with a minor. Dedo, Michael DOB: 03-26-88 will be summonsed for minor in possession of alcohol. MUTUAL AID: Mutual Aid, Nov 01, Saturday at 00:33. Location: OFF CAMPUS. Out dispersing a large group at the request of S.P.D. DISTURBANCE: Disorderly Conduct, Nov 01, Saturday at 00:35. Location: OFF CAMPUS. Reports of a loud party and a fight. Party was dispersed without further incident. November 21, 2008 ABUSE PREVENTION: Domestic Dispute, Nov 01, Saturday at 00:44. Location: BATES COMPLEX. RA reports witnessed a male party assault a female party. Male party fled the scene, victim stated that she was not hurt, was a verbal argument. She was given a written explanation of her rights as a victim in case she did want to pursue criminal charges or a restraining order. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Nov 01, Saturday at 00:45. Location: PEABODY HALL LOT. Out with five minors. Pariseau, Brandon DOB: 07-21-89 will be summonsed minor in possession of alcohol. PARKING & TRAFFIC: Any injury traffic accident, Nov 01, Saturday at 00:56. Location: OFF CAMPUS. Officer reports m/v/a with injuries and air bag deployment. MEDICAL: Medical Assist, AlcoholRelated, Nov 01, Saturday at 01:22. Location: BATES COMPLEX. RA reports that a female party ran into the woods behind Building #1. Party was followed by a male party who was yelling at her. Officer reports that the female party (Alexa PICCIOTTO) intoxicated and requested an ambulance. NSA was dispatched, female party was transported to NSMC by NSA. ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS: Liquor Laws, Nov 01, Saturday at 01:46. Location: BIG PARKING LOT BEHIND BUILDING #1. Out with five male parties who are minors and are drinking in public. Runyan, Nicholas DOB: 10-21-89 of 5R Albemarle St, Hyde Park, MA, Brayden, Ryan, DOB: 05-16-90 of 91 Buchanan Rd, Roslindale, MA, Tobin, Thomas DOB: 09-12-89 of 1 Sheldon St, Roslindale, MA, and Flaherty, Thomas DOB: 03-02-90 of 14 Zeller St., Roslindale, MA will be summonsed for minors in possession of alcohol. Suspicious Circumstances, Nov 01, Saturday at 01:50. Location: CENTRAL CAMPUS RESIDENCE HALL. Found abandoned marijuana. Suspicious Person, Nov 01, Saturday at 01:57. Location: BOWDITCH HALL. RA called to report male party who is on the ban list attempting to sign into the building. The RA also reports that the party could become aggressive. Party was sent on his way, Jared Roberts DOB:09-0487. November 21, 2008 Features THE SALEM STATE LOG Easy Microwave Chicken Parmesan Recipe When you come to college, you realize two facts. One, this is nothing like high school; and two, you have to feed yourself every day. Overcoming the rigors of college is a tough obstacle, but feeding yourself shouldn’t be. Now, you could always just go down to the cafeteria every meal for the next couple of years; you can live off Top Ramen; or you can utilize this amazing Chicken Parmesan recipe that only requires ten minutes, a microwave, and costs under ten bucks. What more could a college student ask for? Ingredients: One (1) package Perdue Italian Style (Pre-cooked) Chicken Cutlets One (1) jar of sauce (I went with Frencesco Rinaldi Eggplant and Parmesan Sauce) One (1) bag shredded cheese (Sargento Six-cheese Italian works very well with this recipe) Procedure: 1. Uncover Perdue chicken cutlets. Microwave cutlets in provided packaging for one (1) minute. 2. Cover cutlets with sauce. Microwave for one (1) minute. 3. Cover cutlets and sauce with shredded cheese. Microwave an additional two (2) minutes. Remove from microwave. Be careful--container and cheese will be extremely hot. Let stand for one (1) minute before serving. Page 7 Fears Over Post-Graduation Life Most occasions in life that mark major significant changes always seem to come with aftereffects, positive and negative. However, there is one moment in life where most feel optimism for the future: graduating from college. According to Fortune magazine, in the beginning of 2008, surveys done by CollegeGrad. com found that around 60 percent of companies anticipated hiring more college graduates than they did in 2007. However, the economy seems to have gotten worse rather than better; therefore the outlook for graduates in 2009 is not very promising. The National Association of Colleges and Employers found that companies only plan to hire 1.3 percent more graduates in the coming year. The number of people continuing their education and pursuing college careers has grown significantly over the years and so has the price tag. According to Business Week magazine, the average cost of college tuition is $25,000 a year for a four-year private education and around $8,000 a year By Kristen Sacco / Log Staff for a four-year public college. This is leaving most students in debt by the time they graduate and even more in need of a decent job to help them pay it all back post-graduation. Leslie Kohlberg, director of career services at the College of Letters and Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, suggests students have a back-up plan. Kohlberg said, in a Wall Street Journal article, “Things have been so good [in the past] that students were able to rely on even some of the least-effective job search strategies. They can’t really afford to do that now.” According to the Wall Street Journal’s Career Journal, “demand for recent college graduates remains high in fields such as accounting, public service, health care, education, and technology.” This is a small light at the end of the tunnel, and hopefully shortly after the New Year things will begin to look up and graduates can enjoy the feeling of accomplishment rather than stressing over the fear of unemployment. Features THE SALEM STATE LOG Page 8 An Interview with a “Local Businessman” According to a 1952 newsreel I found, marijuana kills babies, is responsible for 80 percent of the world’s terrorism, and is the number-one cause of obesity and male-pattern baldness. I took a walk into Salem’s seedy underbelly the other night to interview campus’s number-one purveyor of this godless plant, to ask his thoughts on the current election, the state of drug use at Salem State, and to find the answer to the ultimate yuppie question: How’s Business? Matt Trapeni: Hey man, what’s going on? Drug Dealer: Not much, man. I can’t believe I’m being interviewed for being a drug dealer! MT: Inquiring minds want to know, man. NOTE: Right off the bat, I should mention that this particular drug dealer is one of the stranger and hence more interesting animals I’ve ever met. He comes from money, walks like a diminutive stork scouring a lake for fish, and blows cocaine like most of us eat potato chips. He’s intelligent without being intellectual, dangerous without being threatening, cordial without being polite. He is a lesson in hypocrisy, and will some day surely will trade in his scale for a pen, committing crimes in a white collar instead of a sweatshirt. MT: So how long have you been selling marijuana? DD: Since I was 13. The first time I ever sold, I bought a eighth of high-grade weed, and got caught by the end of the day! The [assistant principal] caught me, but because I was illegally searched, the case got thrown out, and I began picking up half ounces while I was still in middle school. MT: That’s pretty funny. DD: You wouldn’t believe it, man. After school I would have to walk up to the high school or around town to sell to older kids; they knew I had the best prices. I noticed if I sold [marijuana] for the same amount I bought it for, I would have much more clientele, and that’s how I had my town on lock. MT: How has your experience with police been? DD: I’ve been searched literally hundreds of times. Only twice did I ever have stuff on me, but both times it was so well hidden they were unable to pin me for anything. They know I sell, but as long as I’m not going hand to hand they can never bust me. As the years went on, I get harassed more, but get caught much less. NOTE: You’ll notice that some of this story has massive issues with keeping the facts straight. This is 21 UNDEAD: The Arm not the fault of the journalist. I blame the regular insufflations of cocaine by the subject. MT: Have you ever had any famous clients? DD: Haha. Wanna shit a brick? Ralph Lauren’s daughter was buying my product. She still owes me money, like 180 bucks! MT: Like the Polo guy? DD: Yeah, son! She used to pay me in clothes! I’d be like “Where’s my money?” And she’d be like “I don’t have it, next time though!” And I was like “Well that Purple Label stuff looked pretty nice on the runway....” It was a pretty cool arrangement. MT: What’s the best-selling merchandise at Salem State? DD: Low-grade weed. My acquaintances and I sell about a quarter pound a week. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg; there’s all types of kind bud and headies (two types of high-grade weed), being sold at double the price, appealing to those with more money, and some respect for what they smoke. MT: How well do the Salem State police do at enforcing their drug policies? DD: They do a pretty good job, actually. I’ve never been busted by them, but I’ve come close to it. November 21, 2008 MT: What’s the going price for weed these days? DD: For low grade, $25 an eighth; for kind bud, $40; and headies, everywhere between $50 and $70. MT: Question Two on this year’s election ballot is about decriminalizing marijuana in Massachusetts. Instead of a felony, it will be a misdemeanor and result in a fine of $100 and confiscation if you are caught carrying less than an ounce. What kind of impact do you think this will have on business? DD: If it passes, it will make things a lot easier, [and] better. Those who sell anything but weed will still be brought up on charges, and those who do sell only weed will be safer. I do not agree marijuana should be legal- ized. If this is done, our drug market will be opened to all types of harder drugs. It’s a non-selfdestructive drug, and should be in a sense legal, but in the world we live in, should not be. MT: Wait.... What? DD: Their source of income is weed, and if it’s legalized, they’ll have to sell harder drugs, which are really dangerous. This is something I really believe in. MT: Any parting words? DD: The loudest one in the group in the weakest one in the group. That’s the facts. MT: Isn’t that from American Gangster? DD: I don’t know. Maybe. It’s true though! If you’re in it for the glory, get out. God knows I am. NEED A QUIET PLACE TO STUDY FOR FINALS? The SSC Library will be open 24 hours a day starting Sunday, 12/14, until midnight on Wednesday, 12/17. Coffee and refreshments will be available. A Prologue by Jacob Santa-Cruz To be Continued... Features THE SALEM STATE LOG Page 10 November 21, 2008 ARTIST OF THE MONTH Artist: Alicia Davidson Major: Art Education “One” In a world in need of labels, people are pressured to make choices about who they are and where they’re from, but aren’t we all Americans? This painting was created with this idea in mind. The media wholeheartedly believes we all have one common bond, but subconsciously that bond is being weakened with prejudices and continuous use of stereotypes. The newspaper words represent society’s attempt at uniformity while the chaos of the expression and visible brushstrokes represent the underlying emotions of those being pressured. With the idea of America being one unified nation composed of many contributing factors, numerous skin colors are represented. The painting was created using a single unwashed brush. Colors were applied on top of one another and blended as necessary. The brush was only wiped off once but never washed, leaving traces of color on the brush from the stroke before because the people of our nation will never forget what came before them. “The Battle in Boston of 2006” January 13, 2006, was the day the steaming train of tragedy came roaring down the tracks I was standing on. My boyfriend of three years, Frankie, was diagnosed with leukemia, cancer of the blood, proposing a battle he ultimately would never win. This piece consisting of collage, Sharpies, and chalk pastels exemplifies the woes and feats his family and mine faced while Frankie received the greatest care possible at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. The orange text was the last thing Frankie ever wrote, an update posted to MySpace for his friends to learn of his setbacks and his optimistically hopeful recovery. The written quotes were some vivid snippets of Frankie’s last few days with us. I held his hand to the bitter end, as promised, and watched him pass. At just 22 years old, Frankie DeCandia surrendered to the incessant disease that coursed through his veins. This experience has changed my life and neither my art nor I will ever be the same. Pink Panther Strikes at Salem State Earlier this November The Student Theatre Ensemble of Salem State College presented The Pink Panther Strikes Again, an adaptation of the classic 1976 film by Blake Edwards and Frank Waldman. The laughs were plenty as fans young and old packed into the Callan Studio Theatre underneath the Sullivan building to watch students pay homage to one of the most beloved comedy fran- By Timothy Page / Log Staff chises in movie history. Directed by Andrew Scannell, a Salem State student and first-time director, The Pink Panther Strikes Again follows French Chief Inspector Jacques Clouseau as he gracefully Magoos his way past hired killers and countless near-death experiences trying to track down a madman bent on destroying the world unless Clouseau is delivered into his hands. The star of the show, Costa Giannakopoulos, who plays Clouseau, did a hauntingly good job of reinventing the Peter Sellers character that has survived the years as one of the greatest roles in comedic cinema. From his mustache to his sometimesconfusing French accent, Giannakopoulos never missed a beat or a punch line. The madman, former Chief Inspector Dreyfus, played excellently by student Devin Jeffery, ignited the room with his psychotically demented cackle, and with Giannakopoulos produced a fantastic character as a man who has been driven mad by Clouseau’s dimwitted genius. Throw in a torn Russian assassin, played brilliantly by student Katelyn Collins, who cannot decide whether to kill Clouseau or love him, a few hunchback disguises, and a wonderful job by all supporting actors and crew, and you have all the makings for a good time. With the last few shows presented at the college thriving on more somber tones, The Pink Panther Strikes Again--which ran from November 6-9--was a breath of fresh air and an instant gratification for the funny bone. “Everything has been such a downer,” wrote Scannell about the show. “Heavy shows about war, death, suicide, mental illness, anger, hate, revenge and all manner of nasty emotions, were all that we have had for almost two years. We need a good laugh, and that is what I am here to provide.” Although the entire show focuses on picking fun at Clouseau’s dense observation of the sometimes obvious, in the end, the show presents the fact that not only is Clouseau good for a laugh, but he shows that anyone can keep his or her integrity and, with a little effort, always do his or her duty: a reflection upon the characteristics of everyone involved in this project. Log Publication Dates (2008-2009): September 19 October 10 October 31 November 21 December 12 January 23 February 13 March 6 March 27 April 17 May 8 Page 11 Features THE SALEM STATE LOG November 21, 2008 Winfisky Display is an Eclectic Mix from SSC Faculty This month’s Winfisky Gallery highlights art created by faculty members of Salem State Art Department, running from November 12 to December 6. Benjamin Gross’ “Cheeseburger and a Coke” (top center) caught my frayed attention from the variety of art, and after reading the caption beside it, my first thought was literally “LOL!” A serigraph picture of a cow hangs on the wall. His badass stare gives off an “I don’t care” look, and is adequately complimented by his pierced ear, from which dangles a Coke bottle. Needless to say, this is a very cool way to symbolize a common McDonald’s order. On the floor, the wall hangings are accompanied by blown glass vases and a “fish bowl” (top left) by John Volpaccio and Jeff Mentuck, bringing the gallery a diverse feel this month. The idea of fluidity bursts from these pieces, and earthy vibes were expressed through the colors, structures, and voice of the pieces. To the back of the gallery, what initially looked like a coffin is erected. Entitled “Water” the mixed media/found object structure assembled by Ken S’more Options for SMS Requirements There is not much on your mind as you drive along the 70mile stretch of Route 2. Nothing but beautiful colors and the smell of autumn surrounds you; the trees are a bright orange, yellow and red, creating a warm fiery feeling. Most students would probably never think twice about considering backpacking as an option to fulfill their one-credit Sport & Movement Science (also known as SMS) requirement. Some might hear horrible rumors and stories, or others might assume the idea of “roughing it” for a night is not for them. However, the entire 24-hour experience is definitely one that will never be regretted, let alone forgotten when I’m looking back on my years at Salem State College. Professor Robin Benton, who is also a teacher of aquatics here at Salem State, began the backpacking program 10 years ago. She says that the class is definitely her favorite to teach and that she enjoys seeing the relationships and bonds that are formed between students from having to work together as a team. Benton is highly experienced in the field and has trav- By Kristen Sacco / Log Staff eled to many different locations, including Canada, Alaska and the French Alps. Since offering the course, Benton has led the students to Erving State Forest, located in the small town of Erving, Mass. The town is so small that Benton warns jokingly to drive slowly and “try not to blink.” After zigging and zagging up the winding roads and screeching around the hairpin turns, we were led to a small parking area. We parked and strapped on our backpacks, which weighed about onethird of our own body weight, and began the mile hike up the hill road. The backpacks are allowed to be stuffed with only the essentials needed to survive for the 24-hour trip. The campsite, located at a grassy knoll amongst a wall of thick trees, was our final meeting place. We were greeted by Professor Benton and our three other chaperones--Beth, Leandra, and Kevin--who were also experienced backpackers. We settled in, set up our tents, and began to cook a warm meal that would keep us fully satisfied through the night. As the sun set, the temperature dropped to about 25-30 degrees. To keep warm, suggestions Reker is composed of wood, wire, fabric and water jugs (above). Plastic tubing links the jugs through the wood frame, which was decorated with two ears. Atop the jugs are flowers which look to be in bloom thanks to their water supply below, but how the water source contributes to the coffinesque structure is questionable. To me, Reker’s piece suggested the idea of water as a necessity for life, and also hints at a connection between life and death and what is consistent between dead and living things. One ear flopped over the structure lends the idea that it is not in use any- By Amanda Read / Contributing Editor-Elect of a “night hike” began to come up. At first, the thought was a bit unnerving, with fears of nocturnal critters or being lost in the dark in the front of our minds. However our final destination proved to be worth it. We reached a quiet open road nestled between a lake. It was peaceful to look up and actually see stars for what seemed like the first time, and to not have to worry about confusing them with airplanes. The silence and beauty of the night almost made you forget you were cold, when all of a sudden we heard a splash. Benton explained that this lake was not really a lake but a beaver-made swamp created by a dam, and below us was a beaver home, also known as a “beaver lodge.” To be able to witness firsthand one of nature’s wonders at work was remarkable. Earlier in the evening some students went out to gather sticks and wood for a fire. After our night hike we settled back to our site and found it easier to see because the moon had risen over the trees. We decided to start a fire and gather around to talk, play games, make s’mores, and just relax before heading off to sleep. Morning came quickly as we all struggled out of our sleeping bags like butterflies from a cocoon. The smell of eggs, bacon and pancakes wafted through the air towards our tents. A pot of boiling water was prepared for coffee, tea, and hot chocolate, which is just what you need to combat the morning chill. It was our last few hours and we had made it through more than half of the trip. Our final hike, however, involved doing “trail maintenance.” This consisted of splitting up into smaller groups and hiking a few of the areas trails. Using tools like “lobbers,” hand saws, and branch cutters, we cut back unwanted plants in order to widen the trail for fu- more--a dismantled life. Photographs by Don Springer connected me to art in a way I wasn’t expecting this month. His snapshots “Trailer and Debris” and “Crushed and Rusted Drainage Pipes” were blatant and calm scenes of exactly that: debris and rusted metal, trash and piles of waste just left to sun on a construction site. What surprised me most was that the caption explained the pictures were taken in my hometown in central Massachusetts. I found it very ironic that I’d find art hanging here from a seemingly middle-of-nowhere place. ture hikers, while taking in the beauty of the scenery. One of the proudest moments for me involved walking halfway down the trail and seeing the sign that said “Nature Trail Built by Salem State College.” That was the moment on the trip that we realized it was all worth it. It was definitely a great experience. I encourage students who are looking to complete the onecredit SMS requirement to take this class or something else out of the norm. Do not be afraid to try something new beyond the typical ballroom dancing or golf class; be a leader, not a follower, and you are already one step closer to being an A+ backpacking student. Page 12 Features THE SALEM STATE LOG SSC Presents Shakespeare’s The Tempest The Salem State Theatre department continues its theme of imagination this month with its production of William Shakespeare’s last masterpiece, The Tempest. In The Tempest, the Duke of Milan Prospero (played by Brian Sergent) and his daughter Miranda (played by Hannah Cranton) are overthrown and cast away by his evil brother Antonio to an island where he must rely on magical powers and the spirits of the island. In addition to the actors, the Theatre Department will use their non-acting skills to “bring the play to life.” Co-set designers Professor Whitney White and theatre major Nick Porto will create Prospero’s island/prison as Professor Jane Hillier-Walkowiak and theatre major Ashley Preston create the costumes. The show runs from November 20-22 and December 4-6 at 8:00 p.m. with a final showing on December 7 at 2:00 p.m. in the By Brett Nolan / Log Staff back. The music played during the juggling definitely set the tone of the entire night. Most of it sounded like it belonged to a DJ performing at a rave. My personal favorite was the blasting of “The Final Countdown.” Chelko got on stage and started performing magic tricks involving playing cards. One of the more memorable playing card tricks involved having a student chosen from the audience get on stage and pick a card out of the deck and have that audience member write his or her name and phone number on it. Chelko then told the assistant to reach into his pocket and said that the card with her number and name on it will be in his pocket. Somehow Chelko made the entire deck go into his pocket while retaining the card with the assistant’s digits in his hand. The best trick and probably most disgusting performed during the show was when Chelko crafted a tadpole or sperm balloon animal depending on your interpretation. He then proceeded to stick the tail end of the balloon into his nose and pull it out in the other nostril. After that he ended up pulling the tail end out of his mouth while the body end still remained protruding out of his nostril. Their final tricks were definitely the most impressive. Dubois, with the aid of two assistants and Chelko, was restrained in a straightjacket and then put on top of a unicycle. He rode the unicycle on the small stage he was given and started to escape from the straightjacket. There Mainstage Theatre. Tickets are $15 for general admission, $10 for non-Salem State Students and seniors, and free for Salem State Students with their ClipperCard. Women’s Fashion When I saw the following article in Elle, I immediately loved how the charm necklace craze has snowballed into a fabulous accessory trend. Just last fall, we were flocking to purchase long necklaces that adorned unique and funky charms on the end, such as cupcakes, peace signs, and even flip-flops. Well this year, not much has changed, as designers are getting bolder and closer to home! GOOD SHOT--Courtesy of Elle Magazine New York girl-about-town Zani Gugelmann debuts a new line of tough bullet necklaces with a surprisingly tender core Adult Circus: Dangerous Tricks and Dirty Jokes When I first heard of the Adult Circus, I pictured Lisa Lampanelli-meets-Cirque Du Soleil. Or at the very least, an Indian gypsy teaching college kids about Karma Sutra. Instead it was a great almost two-hour-long variety show that showcased a variety of magic and weird talents. The Adult Circus consists of two performers, Chris Chelko and Michael Dubois. The two met while they attended college at Penn State University, and even then they were developing their skills. Chelko was the president of Penn State’s magician club and Dubois was the president of Penn State’s juggling club. Since their graduation, they have continued performing and traveling the country to various college campuses. They even appeared on The Tonight Show With Jay Leno. Dubois started off the night with a seal-like ball trick with a little more pizzazz. He bounced the ball on his head while jumping roping on stage. Right at the beginning, he got the audience involved by having them clap every time the ball bounced off his head. He continued his performance with juggling tricks. He juggled three balls at first and eventually worked his way up to juggling seven at the same time. While he juggled, he threw the balls over his head, behind his back, and even in between his legs. He later juggled bowling pins. Again he started three bowling pins and eventually worked up to five of them. Like juggling the balls, he tossed the pins between his legs and behind his November 21, 2008 were definitely some “Oh shit!” moments from the audience and even from Dubois himself, though I’m sure he was never in any real danger. He successfully took the straightjacket off while riding the unicycle. Chelko’s last stunt was stepping on and jumping on shards of broken glass. He performed the stunt again but the second time Dubois got on Chelko’s shoulders while he walked on the broken glass. While on Chelko’s shoulders, Dubois juggled blades that looked like they came straight from Aladdin. Their show was both impressive and highly entertaining. Whether it was from teasing the audience, hitting on the students who acted as assistants, or inexplicably shoving foreign objects into their bodies without any harm, the tricks were stunning and performed extremely well. The audience loved them; no tricks went without an applause or laughter. There was never a lack of supply of willing assistants from the audience. Every time they asked for help, dozens of hands shot into the air. Chelko and Dubios later met up with audience members and signed pictures for them. You could tell these two performers appreciated their audience, which definitely humanized them. If you happened to miss this performance and are lucky enough to still be attending Salem State if/when The Adult Circus returns, definitely go and see what you missed. The show was free, and I assume it will be free again so there isn’t any excuse to miss it. Who: Zani Gugelmann What: Santo, her new collection of 18-karat white gold, bullet-shape pendant necklaces embedded with precious stones such as rubies, black diamonds, green emeralds, and yellow sapphires Where to buy: Curve in L.A. and NYC, Ron Herman in L.A., Henri Bendel in NYC Why: Each bullet unscrews to reveal a tiny piece of paper, which Gugelmann encourages using to scribble down something special. User’s Guide: “If you look up silver bullet in the dictionary it reads: a simple and seemingly magical solution to a complicated problem. I see the scroll as a place to record a goal. It’s all about the self-fulfilled prophecy.” LOCAL INSPIRATION--Looking Glass Who: Michelle Wagner, Danielle Wagner What: Unique hemp and guitar pick jewelry Where to buy: The Tennis Closet; Middleton, Bewitched in Salem; Salem, Dream; Stoneham, Music Place; North Reading, Earth’s Treasures; Rockport Why: “My dad used to play the guitar. I tired playing, but don’t anymore. Guitar picks would always be around the house, and when I was younger, I used to make jewelry out them. My friends used to like it, and I made it for them.” – Danielle Wagner quoted in The Reading Advocate --April Holland, Features Editor November 21, 2008 Men’s Fashion Everyone has a hero. Be it a politician, a father figure, artist you identify with, or a character ripped from the annals of a comic book, each and every one of us has a man in our lives whom we wish to become, or at least exude the same things he stands for in our own reality. Chances are our own hero has a signature look, too. When you find that guy who exudes that ineffable cool, cut out his image and hang it up somewhere. This is your muse. Every designer and celebrity you wish you had the balls to dress like has one. Mine’s JFK Jr., age 22. When you find someone with a style all his own, try to emulate it with your own twist. All that being said, please pick a muse with class. Robert Redford works. So does Kanye West. Eminem does not. Nor does some futuristic ninja out of a comic book that makes you want to stand in Alumni Plaza with a toy sword play fighting like a bluehaired jet-pants-wearing manga character. Got it? Great. Dress like an adult; maybe you’ll get actually get hired when you’re done here. That being said: Pants. Trousers. Slacks. Et al. They keep you warm, they look nicer than shorts, and above all else they hide your pee-pee. Certain rules apply to the modern-day man and the pants he decides to wear: 1) IF YOU WEAR PANTS WITH PLEATS, I WILL PERSONALLY RIP THEM OFF OF YOU AND BEAT YOU VICIOUSLY. Pleats were cool for, like, a minute in the 1980s when businessmen started wearing these huge baggy power suits. They’re a waste of material. They make you look as if your mom still shops for you at Bugle Boy. Even if your dress pants have pleats, throw them away. Please. For all of us. 2) DO NOT TUCK YOUR T-SHIRT INTO YOUR PANTS. We want to dress like adults, sure, but we don’t want to run around looking like suburban dads cloistered in cubicles. T-shirts are great; I own a lot of them. But the only shirt anyone should tuck in is a button-down shirt. Not even a polo. I don’t care how fly your belt is. Try buying a shirt that fits correctly if you want to show off your buckle. 3) YES VIRGINIA, YOU CAN WEAR MORE THAN JUST JEANS. Jeans are awesome. Radical, even. But there’s more to life than jeans. What’s hot for autumn and winter? Wool or tweed pants, for one, will give you some flair (maybe mimicking your muse, even!), and corduroys are making a big comeback. Try them in any type of pattern once or twice a week. 4) WOMEN SHOW CLEAVAGE; MEN HAVE BULGES. Yes yes, we’ve all heard that Jay-Z line by now: “I can’t wear skinny jeans cause my nuts won’t fit.” But isn’t that the point of wearing form-fitting pants? If you got it, flaunt it. Even if you don’t, buy ‘em tight anyway. Jeans and trousers across the board by now are tighter fitting. Fashion is cyclical. It all used to be baggy as hell; now it’s fitted, which is a good thing. Find a happy medium, and if others can see your bulge, whatever. I’ve seen plenty of cleavage. Deal with it. --Matt Trapeni, Associate News Editor-Elect Features THE SALEM STATE LOG Page 13 This is a dedication to Marvin P. Joseph, who died last month at age 23, from his friends at The Salem Beer Works. It was a collective agreement at the Salem Beer Works that the local papers and their poorly titled articles and generic representation of a person as kind-hearted and deep as Marvin needed a followup to paint a clear and accurate portrait for public display. This is that portrait. A philosopher, a friend; charismatic, genuine, and absolutely hilarious; this was the amazing man we knew and will always remember. Marvin taught us all something about life-to give people the benefit of the doubt, to never let a thing bother you, to learn and understand anything and everything, and to respect everyone because you never knew how life could have shaped someone. Regardless of the advice he gave, it always showed that Marvin was a thinker. Every person at the restaurant loved Mar- vin and he touched all of us in a different way. During those horrible October nights, it was Marvin who always made us laugh. It was always Marvin who would stay late just to help a friend close or take the shifts no one wanted. There are many memories; the hiding by the “fire-exit,” that off-key singing we always heard in the dish area or coming in five minutes late to “pre-meal,” always with his hat slightly to one side, half his shirt untucked, and a goofy grin. There are hundreds of memories about Marvin, too many to recite. Yet all of them made us respect his strong character and kindness. He made all of us want to be better people. It is not often that a man exists who can inspire and motivate every single person that he meets, but that man was Marvin. Without effort and certainly without flaw, he showed us what an intelligent, amazing man is. Marvin was a caring soul who had the ability to connect to everyone. We will all remember him for different reasons and of all the reasons, not a single negative one exists. Such a man will never be forgotten. And from the countless friends he made at the Salem Beer Works: We love you Marvin, and raawk on! Written by Jessica Powell, Rachael Sampson, and Cortney Wieber Foreword By Adam McQuarrie Pete Best: The Beat in the Beatles Once you hear Pete Best, you realize, well, yeah, he is a better Ringo Starr. What went wrong there? From 1960 to 1962, Pete Best was the resident drummer for The Beatles. In 1962 he was fired from the band for reasons that have yet to come out to the public. Some think has to do with the fact that those circumstances were not the happiest of ones. Paul McCartney has talked in interviews of his drug use in the past, an example of what you might think a person of his standing might not want to discuss with reporters. However, he refuses to talk about what happened with regard to Pete and the reason that he was asked to leave the band. This has even happened in fan based, web-cam questionand-answer sessions that he has held. Brian Epstein, the manager at the time for the band, looked at Pete as a prospective drummer when it seemed like the band needed a new talent. Brian, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Stuart “Stu” Sutcliffe had gotten to know Pete through the club that his mother owned. She featured them in the beginning of the band’s career, when they were known as The Quarrymen. The little club called By Joy Richard / Log Staff The Casbah is a museum today in Liverpool. It is one of the multiple stops on the ever-expanding Beatles’ tour that now basically runs all over England, showcasing every stop that the band made on its way to popularity. After The Beatles signed Pete as a member, the band began to tour Germany in 1960. John, Paul, George, Pete and Stu (John’s close friend and sometime bass player, who died of a brain hemorrhage in the early 1960s) were embarking on the beginning of their journey toward fame. After signing with record company Decca, the band released some of its earliest popular work that made it recognizable outside of the German nightclub scene. The sound that the band had at the time was inspired by Elvis and the “Sun Record” era of the 1950s with people like Carl Perkins, Little Richard and other American performers who were making rock ‘n’ roll what we recognize today. Today, Pete has a career of his own with The Pete Best Band. The band is a five-member ensemble with him and his brother both on drums, which is what Best attributes to the band’s massive sound. When you listen to his albums today, you can still recognize the influence of his early days in Germany in the tracks. Also, when you watch him and his band play, you hear the music that he worked on after his stint with The Beatles. He also covers the classic songs that he helped popularize from 1960 to 1962. His new album Heyman’s Green has a very 1960s, dreamy sound to it. I listened to it online and it is has a very nice style and flow to it, the music being soothing and nostalgic. The downside is that since he is trying to distance himself from The Beatles, it will be difficult because both bands sound very similar. This is obviously because he helped create the sound, but nonetheless it might hamper some from seeing him as a separate artist, not “the one that was kicked out.” Pete has massive talent and his band is nothing to sneer at; he is also lovely and warm to talk to. He gets you on his side with talent and not by putting out the sympathy play. Listen to his music, learn about him through his web site and videos on YouTube.com and you will find it very interesting how the whole event was played out and how it wasn’t in the media as much as you would think. Features THE SALEM STATE LOG Page 14 Le Samouraï Hard Candy Movie Reviews Release Date: 2006 Director: David Slade Release Date: 1967 Director: Jean-Pierre Melville Despite the title, French director Jean-Pierre Melville’s Le Samouraï has nothing to do with Japan. Originally released in 1967 with a DVD release by Criterion in 2005, the film tells the story of a Jef Costello, a French hit man who upon nearly botching an assassination attempt and getting arrested finds himself hunted by the police and his former employers, who want to get rid of any connection they have to the crime. The plot, while compelling, is incredibly minimalist. Each individual sequence is probably longer than you are used to in crime films or movies of any sort. The scenes in which Costello gets arrested, questioned, and eventually released probably take 15 to 20 minutes. Later, a scene where Costello meets a contact spends more time showing him walking to the meeting place than the meeting itself. In addition, the film isn’t that reliant on dialogue the first line of the entire movie doesn't happen until ten minutes in. It’s certainly a more “artsy” direction to a crime movie, and Melville’s films in general follow this approach. If you’re into crime films and can keep an open mind, you'll find it a memorable experience. While there are certain parts of the movie that really do drag, the long silences and extended scenes often work in its favor. The aforementioned meeting scene, for example, works be- By Mike Pelosi / Log Staff By Chris Lezott / Log Staff cause the moments leading up to the encounter build an incredible sense of tension, and a wonderful “release” in the conflict with Costello’s contact. The movie’s also incredibly stylish, with beautiful costumes, sets, and cinematography; it often feels like a mix of French aesthetics with visual aspects--such as trench coats and fedora hats--seemingly borrowed straight from American gangster movies. The performances are also of note, particularly Alain Delon asCostello. Delon plays the solitary, calm, almost mechanical killerwith an near-unbreakable poker face for most of the film, which makes the moments when he’s worn down from the chase all the more affecting (This, incidentally, is probably why the film is titled Le Samouraï--to invoke the image of a lone warrior with a particular moral code). The soundtrack is appropriately moody and sets the tone for certain scenes nicely. While it takes some cues from American gangster films, Le Samouraï is something special in its own right. If you have the patience, want to experience something different, or are just interested in older and foreign cinema, you'll find it a fascinating take on the crime genre. A Clockwork Orange Release Date: 1971 Director: Stanley Kubrick By Joy Richard / Log Staff Over the last few weeks, I saw a few movies--frankly more than I have seen in a long time. My new housemates decided that it would be a good idea to get me into scary movies. Usually, I am extremely afraid of watching anything remotely frightening, but I figured this would be a good way to socialize and not seem like a complete wet blanket. Deemed as a classic from 1971, A Clockwork Orange was directed by Stanley Kubrick. He is one of the more esteemed directors of the 20th century; his other works are The Shining, November 21, 2008 2001: A Space Odyssey, Lolita, Eyes Wide Shut, and many more works that continue to inspire directors. Kubrick’s directorial tendencies toward complex imagery, disturbing and controversial topics, and hidden meaning are present in A Clockwork Orange. Looking at the content of this movie, it is certainly confusing and frightening in the sense that you can’t imagine that people, mainly the character of Alex, A 14-year-old girl. A 30-yearold man. A computer. A coffee shop. The Internet. A chat room. A sexual predator. These are the main components that make Hard Candy, a stylish psychological thriller work…well...sort of…except these aren’t necessarily the components. This film’s reverse psychology and exclusive look at the world of predatory madness is unbelievable. Juno’s Ellen Page plays Hayley Stark, a sweet innocent girl who goes to meet Jeff (Little Children’s Patrick Wilson), a 30something photographer, at a local coffee shop. Minutes later, Hayley is at Jeff’s apartment drinking vodka, dancing and stripping for an impromptu photo shoot. This may be the luckiest night of Jeff’s life—this is essentially what he wanted, right? The first 20 minutes of the film are filled with the usual clichéd awkward moments that would ensue in any film with this storyline. What if all isn’t what it seems? What if what happens next is as jaw-dropping and unsettling as the plot itself? Meet Hayley Stark—a 14year-old troubled youth who fooled Jeff from day one, drugged him and tied him to his office chair. The insane twist of events is what makes Hard Candy special in its own right. 30 Days of Night director David Slade’s immoral dilemma tale is striking— much so because of what both of these characters bring to the table. In an attempt to expose Jeff, Hayley embarks on a journey that we only realize will end explicitly. Her intentions are deadly… but at first justified. That is what’s unique about the film—we can’t justify anything that’s happening because we don’t have any answers yet. Taking a 14-year-old girl back to your apartment is wrong, but that’s not what’s happening here. Hayley is the “bad guy,” so why can’t we say that yet? We now are choosing which character to root for, even though we probably shouldn’t be. The manic camera shooting throughout thoroughly keeps both characters alive as well as us in the cat-and-mouse atmosphere. The film’s cleverly designed set involves nothing more than Jeff’s house. It keeps us trapped…ultimately like the characters are…trapped in their worlds of “he said, she said”...of lies, de- ceit, and ultimately a price to be paid for. But whose price is it? You can’t help but be sucked into Hayley’s world even though you know she’s wrong, but you can’t stay on Jeff’s side because you still don’t know that he’s right. Oscar-nominee Page is superb here—igniting a full-fledged complex youth that glows just like she did in Juno. Wilson is just as extraordinary—playing the more tortured of the two. He embraces the role with a more sophisticated tone, but plays it well opposite a much younger co-star. Hard Candy’s explicit tone may drive some viewers away, but for those who can handle it, it displays yet another impressive role that should’ve garnered Page another Oscar nomination. could be driven to do these violent and graphically sexual acts willingly, fulfilling something in them that gave them pleasure. A summary of the movie would not even do it justice due to the fact that the images make the movie what it is and they are difficult to put in a description. There are a group of thugs in England and they call themselves “The Droogs.” Their leader is Alex. The group goes around the countryside and terrorizes whomever they find to amuse themselves. The Droogs torture their victims in a violent manner, and most of the time when they find a women they rape her. The way Kubrick portrays these scenes is very graphic and would probably disturb the viewer. Early in the film there is a gang rape on a stage. The soundtrack of the scene is almost comical, which makes it more disturbing, because you have no idea where the movie will go from there. Alex is then framed by “his Droogs” and taken into custody. From there, the government tries to retrain him to not enjoy these sins and to be a proper citizen. It works, but only because he has a serum making his brain think another way. They did not make his brain hate what he did; he only reacts to the bad because the medicine is making him. He comes off the serum and the people that did the experiment apologize and he slips back into his evil world. The director ties to put the point across that some people are just prone to violence and sexual deviance. You can make them behave for a period of time with drugs, but the need for the deviance will never leave their brain forever. This film was really well done. I would recommend to view it only because it is a classic, but it is very unnerving none the less. Also, if you are not really into British slang and culture, the dialogue is extremely hard to follow. Some of the time, the characters speak in a Cockney slang. Another time Alex is making up his own words, like “Viddy this!” So if you’re not really looking for a classic or if you don’t know the works of Kubrick enough to want to see this movie, don’t watch it. Otherwise, it is something to see as a classic film. November 21, 2008 Features THE SALEM STATE LOG Vicky Christina Barcelona Movie Review Release Date: 2008 Director: Woody Allen By Joy Richard / Log Staff Taking place in Spain, Woody Allen’s film Vicky Cristina Barcelona falls into frustrating territory: people who have seemly never worked much in their lives and the problems involving the love affairs that they get into. Maybe it’s the fact that these characters, mostly the character of Scarlett Johansson, swan around Europe and pine over what they really want out of a relationship, but really just never quite seem to grab onto it. I did not like the acting for the most part either, mainly from Johansson. I have never had really much of an issue with her in other movies, but for some reason she just was not good for this role. I did enjoy the way Javier Bardem (No Country for Old Men) played his character, the tortured, Spanish artist who seduces basically everyone. I also liked the lesser-known member of the cast, Rebecca Hall, and her portrayal of the tightly wound Vicky. She is beautiful, and although a new face, is a wonderful actress. She played the “Woody Allen” type character very well. An aspect of this movie that I did enjoy was when the film took place along with the music featured. Taking place in Spain in the summer, the scenery is stunning. Spain isn’t a place that you see much in movies or on television, but Allen does a great job featuring the beauty of the landscape and the architecture. Most of what you see in the film was in the design of the artist and architect Gaudi, an influential Spanish architect and artist during the 19th century. When you look at these buildings, you see a surreal flowing style that amazes you even on screen. The music featured was traditional classical guitar that you commonly think of when you see flamenco dancers perform. With that was music, with Spanish vocals, about the city of Barcelona. The songs are beautiful and fit with the movie’s vibe. Like most of Woody Allen’s films, you get the feeling of the 1920s and 30s and their musical and visual influences. I also really loved the voice-over throughout the film. The style and sound of the man’s voice reminded me of movies from the 1940s that adapted plays about romantic encounters. Though the movie really didn’t live up to the standards of a Woody Allen, it wasn’t a painful viewing. It made me want to re-watch his classics, which is what I would suggest as an alternative to seeing this movie if you are new to his films. If you are already a viewer and fan of his, wait until this movie is on DVD to watch it. Don’t spend the $10. Page 15 Even Salem State staff celebrate Halloween! Custodian Larry Noelle kept with tradition as he dressed up as Frankenstein to come to campus on Halloween. Above, he visits Dr. Stanley Cahill, Vice President for Student Affairs. Page 16 Political THE SALEM STATE LOG November 21, 2008 Election 2008: The Aftermath By Jonathan Lunde / News Editor I imagine the majority of you are expecting me to spit an especially poisonous stream of conservative rhetoric, what with Sen. Barack Obama being the presidentelect of the United States. Truth be told, I’ve amazed myself in that I will not be going that route this week. While I’m far from being on the Obama-train, I will admit that the guy is a rock star. Initially, I planned on concerning this column with topics such as suppressed white guilt and covert racism, both of which could be argued to have helped in Obama’s election. However, the real issue goes far beyond any petty blows or excuses I could come up with to bash our president-elect. Sure, Obama is a crazy Democrat with the most liberal Senate voting record around, but that is not what Americans should be focused on at this point. Rather, we should be focused on fixing the many problems facing our country and giving our next president a chance to do just that. While I don’t agree with the large majority of the platform upon which Obama ran for office, at this point I feel the need to give him the benefit of the doubt. He’s a whacko liberal, but I’d like to see him do a bang-up job as our president. Given, as soon as he makes a mistake, I’ll be criticizing him. Our country is currently going through a rough patch. Although we’ve been in this situation before and have always managed to overcome, the upcoming year will speak volumes to what Obama will be able to accomplish as our president. The economy is in dire straights, the war in Iraq continues to be mishandled, and most of the world doesn’t think very highly of our country. These are some of the major issues that Obama will have to both face and begin to remedy. As I was watching the votes roll in on election night, I was preparing myself for that bad taste in my mouth when Obama sealed the race, but it never showed. I consider myself to be a die-hard conservative, both fiscally and socially. Not once during the course of the election did I believe things would be OK if Obama won. However, I found myself thinking just that as he rounded up his 270+ electoral votes. I found myself thinking, “Hey, maybe everything will be OK.” I’m not quite sure what that means, but the words repeated over and over in my head. Although the masses voted largely Democrat this time around, the country itself continues to be middle-right in its beliefs. The country didn’t vote for Obama because of his pristine record and liberal leanings, but rather because of the personal connection he was able to make with so many Americans. Obama was able to stay focused and on point, never straying from his original message, which won him the election. The same cannot be said for Sen. John McCain and the GOP this time around. The Republican camp ran a truly horrific campaign. Not only did McCain lack in simple charisma; he was never able to focus himself. McCain tried to be everything to every American, forgetting along the way to simply be John. The Republicans will have to spend some time regrouping for 2012. Rather than reinventing the wheel, the GOP needs to stick with tried and true conservatism next time around. Many of the political pundits and talking heads believe Obama will begin to move more towards the political middle of the road after he takes office; however, there is no evidence out there to support that. While it would be nice to think he’d simply throw away his lifelong beliefs as soon as he gets sworn in, I believe it’s a pipe dream. Obama will have to prove himself to this country. Let’s be honest with ourselves: whether you’re white, black, brown, or pink, you have to feel good about the first person of color being elected to the office of United States President. The only folks who didn’t feel even a hint of joy in their hearts for Obama are proudly wearing white hoods and baring their swastika tattoos at a cross burning as we speak. If a conservative of my caliber is able to take a step back and appreciate the significance of Obama’s election, it shouldn’t be too difficult for the rest of the country. Bottom line, Obama and his family got a spread on the front page of People magazine. What’s not to love? On November 4, Sen. Barack Obama won the 2008 presidential election, defeating Sen. John McCain in both the electoral vote and popular vote. Clearly, the American people saw through the negative and false ads approved by John McCain. Though I’m not sure if I’m more relieved that McCain will not be the President or Sarah Palin will not be the Vice-President. Let’s all rejoice in the fact that Obama won and we will not have to deal with the same old run-of-the-mill Republican strategies and policies. McCain did take his defeat with pride and decency. McCain’s concession speech was the best speech he has given. He seemed professional, solemn, and very at ease. I was looking forward to a concession speech from Palin due to a guilty pleasure of her Palinisms. Sadly, I doubt this will be the last we hear from Palin. I do hope that both camps can reconcile and work together for the better of this country. However, I don’t see that happening anytime soon from either party. Obama’s victory speech was extremely well-done and completely in touch with his expectations and his voters. He knew who voted for him and addressed his audience. He seemed very thankful for the votes and professional. He didn’t try to say the road ahead would be easy or try to convince the people all of his aspirations would be met in his first term. But he did convey the sense of hope he always does and instilled a sense of commonality to his voters. He even took the time to address people who didn’t support him and said he would think of them and lead for them as well. He mentioned the diverse groups of people that supported him and genuinely thanked them. It is because of his humbleness and sense of who voted for him and why that I believe he can change this country and repay the people for their vote with action and change. Since he has been elected, Obama has hit the ground running. He has already begun looking at lists of government programs. He will choose which programs need to be cut and which need more money and attention. Information from his staff has revealed his is looking to nearly redo all of the Bush policies currently in effect. He is looking to put more money into stem cell research, which could help countless patients suffering from paralysis to Parkinson’s disease. He also wants to repair and build relationships with foreign countries with whom we have strained relationships. Diplomacy will be a cornerstone of Obama’s presidency, and it’s refreshing after suffering through eight years with the Bush doctrine and imperialism. This country made the right choice. We now have a president who understands global warming with new ideas on how to stop it and create eco-friendly jobs. We now have a president that feels a devotion to the people who voted for him and not a devotion to his personal ideas or beliefs. Supporters funded his campaign, which definitely makes him more inclined to listen to the people than another candidate who just used private funds. This president-elect also understands the economy and knows the worst isn’t over, but it can be treated. We now have a president who is for healthcare for everyone not just certain individuals. We now have a president who understands that a flat tax favors the wealthy and a certain percent isn’t equal to everyone. He is the candidate favored by most foreign heads of countries we need ties with. I won’t be naïve or so optimistic to say Obama will cure America of all of its faults, but he definitely is a step in the right direction By Brett Nolan / Log Staff From Election Night 2008: By Chris Sicuranza / Log Staff Tonight is a special night for both the United States of America and, more importantly, you the individual citizen. We have persevered through an intense political campaign, witnessing both beautiful and ugly moments. But through this cloud of confusion, a clear leader has emerged. We look now to Barack Obama to help guide us to better days. Like so many others, the first time I heard of Mr. Obama was at the Democratic National Convention in 2004, in our own gorgeous capital, Boston. Obama spoke of a new America – one where red and blue states were gone and instead the UNITED States of America would emerge. I watched this man. I listened to his words. I read his books. I put my neck out for him. Never before was I so involved with a candidate. I made sure to represent him to the best of my ability. Family fights, personal attacks and slanderous rumors all swirled around my approval of Obama. Sadly, racism and ignorance have ruled the day for too long and I pray for those who cannot look past skin color or ideologies. But now, I pray for peace. I pray for the good to emerge again. I pray that we will prevail under this new and hopeful land. I pray we will come together and solve problems. I pray people will sit up and listen. I pray people will get involved and care. I pray for the future of all Americans. I have always been a proud American. I never thought to leave this country for a moment – no matter which candidate prevailed. I was always taught that you have to stand and fight for what you believe in. Tonight, I’m proud to say that I stood and fought for this President-Elect. I’m proud to have voted in this historic race. I’m proud to be an American. May God bless America and may God give us the strength to being anew. Here’s to you USA – let’s change the world. Political November 21, 2008 THE SALEM STATE LOG Page 17 Remembering Tina Fey’s Excellent Portrayal of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin By Kelsey Norwood When the season premiere of Saturday Night Live aired on September 13, there was an excitement in the air that the show hadn't seen in years. For most viewers, this was not because of the new featured cast member, the musical guest, or even the host. It was because of a sketch about Republican Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin featuring a cast member who had departed the show two years earlier—Tina Fey. The accent: Right on. Fey added a twist of glee in her voice that perfectly captured the cheery and often clueless attitude Palin seems to put across in the media. The look: Perfect. While there was very little effort necessary in order to actually resemble Palin, the facial expressions throughout the sketch were delightfully awkward. The writing: Genius. SNL’s political humor today is distinctively different from what it was in the ‘70s, when poking fun at a political figure meant Chevy Chase tripping over a chair while dressed as Gerald Ford. For any- one who watched Palin’s interviews with Charles Gibson, the jokes were intensely familiar to things she actually said on camera days before the episode aired. My favorite lines from the first sketch: Poehler/Clinton: “I believe that diplomacy should be the cornerstone of any foreign policy.” Fey/Palin: “And I can see Russia from my house!” Poehler/Clinton: “I believe global warming is caused by man.” Fey/Palin: “And I believe it’s just God hugging us closer.” Poehler/Clinton: “I don't agree with the Bush Doctrine.” Fey/Palin: [laughing] “I don't know what that is.” Fey/Palin: “Stop using words that diminish us, like pretty. Attractive. Beautiful.” Poehler/Clinton: “Harpy. Shrew. Boner shrinker.” The opening of the September 27 show (featuring Fey’s Palin in a second appearance) wasn’t nearly as exciting as the original, which is understandable. With the vice presidential debate yet to come, Palin hadn’t said or done anything too ridiculous that hadn’t been covered the first time; however, it still had some great moments. One of the highlights was Poehler's Katie Couric, who sardonically blinked her eyes in disbelief of every one of Palin's answers. The humor in this one was wonderful, too. There was a significant amount of focus on Palin's inability to give a practical answer. When asked to give specifics on how she intended to spread democracy abroad, Fey/Palin answers, “We're gonna promote freedom, usher in democratic values and ideals, and fight terror-loving terrorists.” When Poehler/Couric pushes for a better answer, Fey/Palin says, “I'd like to use one of my lifelines, Katie.” Like the first sketch, it did a fantastic job of highlighting Palin's most oblivious and ridiculous moments as captured on camera. My favorite lines from the second sketch: [on her trip to New York] “I had 15 to 20 false alarms where I thought I saw Osama bin Laden drivin’ a taxi.” “In an effort to bone up on foreign policy, I went to the Times Square area to see a film called ‘The Bush Doctrine.’ It was not about politics.” I found the third sketch to be somewhat disappointing, although I think it was an incredibly smart move to ask Queen Latifah to make a cameo as debate moderator Gwen Ifill. Additionally, the humor regarding Joe Biden (played by SNL regular Jason Sudeikis) was well-executed; specifically, it focused on his flip-flop on the same-sex marriage question, and on his tendency to compliment John McCain and criticize him moments later, perfectly articulated by this quote: “John McCain— and again, this is a man I would take a bullet for—is bad at his job, and mentally unstable. As my mother would say, ‘God love him, but he’s a raging maniac...’ and a dear, dear friend.” The Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution states, “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” The amendment has been scrutinized and debated over for many years. Arguments have been raised that the bill needs to be amended to relate to modern times, while others believe it is an American’s right to bear arms for protection, and any revision to the Second Amendment would violate a citizen’s freedom. Roger Williams University law professor Carl T. Bogus is a strong advocate of mandating strict gun control laws. He argues that gun control laws are outdated and new laws should be passed to regulate handguns, which “account for 75 percent of all gun-related homicides and more than 80 percent of all gun-related robberies.” He believes that enforcing stricter laws will reduce the number of Americans killed and injured every year by means of a firearm. Bogus relates his argument to local mandates enacted in different regions. The Sloan study compared Seattle and Vancouver crime rates for a period of seven years. The two cities are almost identical in every census cate- gory. The distinct difference between the two cities is in the homicide rate. ancouver accounted for 204 homicides during the seven-year period, while Seattle accounted for 388 homicides. According to the study, the 184 additional homicides in Seattle was a result of relaxed gun control laws. Vancouver requires a permit relating to a “lawful reason” to purchase a handgun, while Seattle only requires a waiting period. Bogus also concludes that gun control saves lives by referencing a study conducted after a law was passed in 1976, in the District of Columbia. Firearm-owning residents were required to re-register their firearms within sixty days per the new law. After the 60-day period, handgun purchases became illegal. The homicide rate fell by “more than 25 percent” in the nine-year study that followed the new law. Bogus believes that local laws make a difference, but federal laws are the only way to drastically combat the gun violence in the United States. He wants Americans to bring their dismay of gun-related violence to the voting booths on Election Day. Some Americans do not agree with Bogus’ argument, and believe that owning firearms com- bats violent crimes. University of Maryland research scientist John R. Lott, Jr., argues that “preventing law-abiding citizens from carrying handguns does not end violence; it merely makes victims more vulnerable to attack.” Lott believes that criminals who are aware that citizens are armed will prevent them from committing a violent act. He defends his argument by stating that there are approximately 760,000 to 3.6 million acts of gun defense each year by regular citizens. Lott believes that nondiscretionary concealed-handgun laws are a way of reducing crime in a cost-effective way. He says that the prison system is costly, and by implementing carry laws, the numbers of prisoners would be reduced. The reason is that criminals are “motivated by selfpreservation” and they would be deterred to commit violent crimes if they thought everyone is armed. Lott says that if everyone carried a firearm, the violent crime rate could be reduced by three to four times in the United States. He conducted his study by examining crime statistics of more than 3,000 counties over an 18 year period. American citizens need to ask themselves if gun control laws need to be amended. According to Bogus, there are 35 million handguns owned by citizens in the United States. Handguns, which have one purpose--to kill-are far too accessible in the United States. With regard to school shootings, the person inflicting the harm is expecting to die, so no penalty will deter him or her away from the crime. A worry I have is that if more people are al- lowed to carry handguns, violent crimes will become more prevalent. Laws need to keep guns out of people’s hand to prevent violence. The Second Amendment, which was ratified in 1791, needs to be restructured and amended to relate to the 21st century. The present majority of citizens possessing firearms do not carry them for the “security of a free State.” Many carry for the fear of the “other” person having a firearm. There is far too much gun violence in the United States; random, personal, and self-inflicted. My sentiments are that a vast amount of murderers in prison would agree that if they did not have a firearm readily available at the time of the homicide, they would still be free, and the victim would still be alive. Should the Second Amendment be Restructured? By David Silverstein / Log Staff HAVE A POINT YOU WANT DISCUSSED? WANT TO ARGUE YOUR POLITICAL VIEWS? SEND IN YOUR ARTICLES TO: EDITOR_SSCLOG@YAHOO.COM Sports THE SALEM STATE LOG Page 18 November 21, 2008 Men’s Basketball Ready, Not Rebuilding Some coaches would say that their team is in the process of “rebuilding,” especially after losing six players who contributed more than 50 of the team’s averaged 87 points scored per game. For Men’s head basketball coach Chris Harvey, the nation’s seventh most-winning active Division III head coach, there is no such thing as a rebuilding year. Instead of rebuilding, the 2008-09 men’s basketball team will be working to find a new identity, according to Harvey. “Our number-one goal is to come together as a team and enjoy the journey,” he said. Despite losing leaders such as Marquis Victor, who averaged more than 16 points per game, and Alex Finn, who led the team with 74 three-pointers in the 2007-08 season, the Vikings still have a team filled with great leaders and key players, said Harvey. “It all starts with our cap- tains, who lead by example. If we are having a dull practice, they’ll find a way to pick it up,” he said. Atop the list of key returning players is senior tri-captain Dylan Holmes, the reigning MASCAC player of the year and member of the Division III Northeast AllDistrict team. Last year, Holmes averaged 15.6 points per game and grabbed 7.1 rebounds per game. Newcomers such as Brennan Bennett, a transfer from Boston College who is said to have a great basketball IQ, will join Holmes. Freshmen Brian and Dan Clark are expected to make an impact on the team as well. Both Brian and Dan have experience in big game competition. Last year, the 6’7 shooting guards both made major contributions for Frontier Regional High School in South Deerfield, in a winning effort in the Division III high school state championship game last year. As for the game plan, Harvey says that the Vikings will be playing with a more open offense this season, but added that the key to winning games is a strong defense. “The whole premise of our defense is based on putting pressure on the ball,” said Harvey. Though he feels that the Vikings have lost the most players to graduation of all MASCAC teams, Harvey is confident that the Vikings are capable of capturing their 18th straight MASCAC regular season championship. “I don’t think that there is a clear favorite in our league. Whoever plays the best ball will win it,” said Harvey. According to a pre-season MASCAC coaches poll, the Vikings are heavy favorites to win the conference championship, receiving six of seven first place votes, according to www.mascac.com. The Boston Bruins’ motto for the 2008-2009 season is “We Want It As Bad As You.” Only 17 games into the NHL 2009 Season, and the Bruins already show they mean it. The Bs tout the second-best record in the Eastern Conference coming into the week, and the team has earned it. With wins over rival teams Buffalo and Montreal, it appears as though the Bruins are going in a different direction, different than the one that led them to numerous first-round playoff exits in recent years. “We’re feeling good, we’re having a lot of fun and obviously that Dallas game, you know, we’re a team to be reckoned with,” says Bruins center Marc Savard, who leads the team in points with 19. “We believe in our room, and that’s all that really matters.” The Bruins work well as a team, with younger players stepping into roles and older players knowing theirs. The youth movement has quite possibly been the biggest surprise of all, with players like Milan Lucic and even Blake Wheeler jumping into more effective roles immediately. “He [Wheeler] continues to do the things he was doing in the preseason,” Bruins head coach Claude Julien said. “That's why he's here.” Bruins fans must be happy with the team overall, as the team has the statistics to back up its great team play. Allowing the second-least number of goals in all the NHL (39) and scoring the sixth-most in the Eastern Conference (52), the Bruins are playing solid hockey. If this season has proven one thing so far for the Bruins, it’s that this year the team really does want it as bad as its fans … and don’t worry, the fans still want it as bad as ever. What a weak season for the early-drafted tight ends, and all of them for that matter. Some of us hoped by picking one of them as early as the fourth round that we add an extra receiver in the likes of Jason Witten, Antonio Gates, Tony Gonzalez, or Kellen Winslow. I mean, it was a valid argument, wasn’t it? There was a huge gap between the numbers put up by the top four or five tight ends and the rest of the tight ends in the league last year. Having a tight end spot filled with a player that put up topnotch receiver numbers would accompany an actual top-notch receiver, and possibly a waiver wire wonder half-way through the season would’ve been nice. The problem with that is with six games left in the season, every single tight end is being outscored by the top six defenses. This is in a league where pointsper-receptions count and so do every 10 yards. You can expect defenses to blow every position but quarterback away in lowscoring leagues, but for Witten, Gates, and Gonzalez to not give their owners a huge advantage is painful. However, there is one way a tight end problem can be evened out-luck, and by luck I mean having not worried about picking a defense before the fourteenth round. If you lucked out and took the Jets’ or Bills’ defense as a backup, you have greatly outscored the interception leaders last year in the Charger’ defense or the free agent consuming Cowboys’ defense. So, if you are lucky enough to have had a top defense landed on your lap, drafted a disappointing tight end, and have a kicker that scores a lot of points, you have the perfect storm that is winning games in unlikely ways across fantasy leagues everywhere where standings look like that of the AFC: .500s across the board. With that said, it’s too late to do anything about it; most playoffs start in three weeks. So if you have the perfect storm, and maybe a solid player or two spread across the rest of your positions, you have as much of a chance of winning your league as the guy who has LaDainian Tomlinson, Reggie Wayne, and Gates. By Dan Dourian / Associate Sports Editor SSC SPORTS SCOREBOARD AND SCHEDULE: 10/30 Volleyball Salem 1 Framingham State 3 11/01 W Soccer Salem 2 Worcester State 4 11/01 M Soccer Salem 0 Worcester State 1 11/01 Volleyball Salem 0 Mass College Liberal Arts 3 11/01 Field Hockey Salem 4 Framingham State 3 11/04 Field Hockey Salem 1 Southern Maine 2 11/05 M Soccer Salem 3 Bridgewater State 0 11/08 M Soccer Salem 1 Framingham State 2 11/08 M Soccer at Framingham State 11/08 W XCountry Eastern College Athletic Conference Championship at Colt State Park, Bristol, RI 11/08 M XCountry Eastern College Athletic Conference Championship at Colt State Park, Bristol, RI 11/15 W XCountry NCAA New England Division 3 Championship at Williams College 11/15 M XCountry NCAA New England Division 3 Championship at Williams College 11/18 W BBall vs. Plymouth State 11/18 M BBall vs. Plymouth State 11/21 M BBall Salem State College Tip-Off Tournament - Bowdoin College vs. Western New England College 4:00 p.m.; Salem State vs. Wheelock College 8:00 p.m. 11/21 W BBall Salem State College Tip-Off Tournament Bates College vs. Rhode Island College 2:00 p.m.; Salem State vs. Emerson College 6:00 p.m. 11/21 Hockey at St. Michael's College **All Scores are taken from the Salem State Athletics page at: www.salemstate.edu/athletics. Please check the site for a more up-to-date scoreboard. Bruins “Want It As Bad As You” By Nick Colon / Associate Sports Editor-Elect The Fall of the Tight End By Adam McQuarrie / Log Staff Sports September 19, 2008 THE SALEM STATE LOG Vikings Golfers Optimistic About Spring ‘09 Season Coach Stephen Campbell and the Vikings golf team have their minds set on making the NCAA tournament this year, after a miserable spring campaign kept them from making it for a third straight time last year. The team had a very impressive start to the 20082009 season by capturing two runners-up and four top10s in its five fall tournaments. The Vikings started off the fall season on the weekend of September 9, with a second-place By Ben Snow finish at the Skidmore College Invitational in Saratoga, N.Y. Salem’s leading golfer was cocaptain Jeff Santora, who shot a 142, which is 2-under-par at the famous Saratoga Spa State Park. Christopher Berry, a freshman at Salem State, was also a big standout, shooting a 148. The following weekend, the Vikings placed fourth at the Duke Nelson Tournament hosted by Middlebury College. Co-captain Nick Antonelli was the Viking’s Kattar, Lauzon Winners at WCF 5; Fans Give Toys for Tots leading scorer with a 147, and Santora followed him with another solid score of 149. The next tournament was at Williams College, where the Vikings finished sixth. Berry showed off his skills leading the team with a 146. His performance was second in a field of 108 players. Santora continued his impressive season, shooting 148. After a weekend off, Salem State traveled to Hamilton College, where the team finished Official Results From WCF 5 The last MMA fighting event of 2008 for the WCF organization was a good one--good enough to make any MMA fan want to come back to see WCF 6. Calvin Kattar, a highly touted fighter, submitted a light, fast, very edgy Bobby Dias less than a minute into the first round. Not to be outdone, East Bridgewater native Dan Lauzon, the youngest fighter ever to compete in the UFC, made very quick work of Justin Hammerstrom with a first round TKO in under two minutes. Both fighters fought well. “He looks good, and he’s in great shape for this fight,” UFC veteran Joe Lauzon said about his brother prior to the fight. Though the WCF does not have high-profile fighters like major organizations such as the UFC and Affliction, the fights they provide are of the same quality. WCF owner Joe Cavallaro has put together five successful events in the Wilmington Aleppo Shriners Auditorium, all with great turnouts. The final event of 2008 drew 3,500 people in attendance, according to wcfighting.com, and the organization has had many celebrities stop by to watch a good fight, including UFC President Dana White, UFC fighter Marcus Davis, and even number-one contender in the UFC Lightweight division Kenny Florian. The WCF also hosted the Toys for Tots program, which had fans donate money or toys to help a child around Christmas this year. “The fans really came through by bringing a ton of toys out to our show for the Toys For Tots program,” said Cavallaro. Chad Beane defeated Joe McGann 1st Rd (Disqualification: illegal blows to back of the head) Dan Ferrer defeated Ethan Kean 3:36 1st Rd Submission (Kimura) James Pittner defeated Robbie Roberts 0:31 1st Rd Submission (Guillotine Choke) Jose Lopez defeated Wayne Harnois 0:35 1st Rd TKO (Strikes) Dan Bonnell defeated Josh Spearman 3rd Rd Unanimous Decision John Benoit defeated Bill Jones 1:45 2nd Rd Submission (Rear Naked Choke) Calvin Kattar defeated Bobby Dias 0:49 1st Rd Submission (Triangle Choke) Stephen Stengal defeated Jay Fortier 0:49 1st Rd TKO (Strikes) Greg Rebello defeated Chris Canale 3rd Rd Split Decision Dan Lauzon defeated Justin Hammerstrom 1:15 1st Rd TKO (Strikes) After 22 years of not winning an NBA championship, the Boston Celtics hung up its 17th banner at the season opener, when the team faced the Cleveland Cavaliers October 28. Paul Pierce brought out the trophy as tears ran down his face. The celebration concluded when the members of the Celtics received their championship rings. On opening night, Cleveland was looking to spoil the celebration by beating the Celtics. Early in the first half, the Cavaliers had a 10-point lead and finished with a 7-point lead going into the second half. However, once the third quarter started, the Celtics defense picked up and held Cleve- land to 13 points in the quarter. The Celtics ended up winning 9085. Just like last year, the Celtics came out strong in the third and took control of the game. The Celtics finished last year with the league’s best record and beat every team on its schedule on its way to win the championship. Now, the team has to defend the championship, and it is always harder to get to the championship a second time. The Celtics lost key players this offseason, including the sixth man coming off the bench, James Posey, and forward P.J. Brown. With those departures, the Celtics added rookie Bill Walker and Gabe Pruitt, the top prospect from the D-League a year ago. The Celtics finish their preseason with a 6-2 record and are not solely relying on the “Big Three”: Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen and Pierce. Instead, the team relies on the emergence of Rajon Rondo as a top point guard in the NBA, and on role players like Eddie House and Leon Powe. Celtics look to be in great shape for this upcoming season. Garnett, Pierce, and Allen have better chemistry than they did a year ago. Rondo is more experienced, and the bench seems to be in great shape, even with the absence of Posey. The Celtics seems to be ready and capable to raise banner 18 next year. By Nick Colon / Associate Sports Editor-Elect Celtics Hope to Repeat Championship Year By Alex Barboza / Log Staff ADVERTISE WITH THE LOG Page 19 runner-up in its invitational tournament. It was the second time the team was runner-up to Skidmore, which was tearing up the league, winning every tournament it played in with the Vikings. Antonelli brought alltournament-player honors to Salem State for the first time this season by with a 149. Berry followed him with a score of 151. Santora continued his fantastic season with 156 and freshman Brian Pryor burst into the season with 157. Vikings concluded with a respectable 11th place finish out of 44 teams at the New England Intercollegiate Golf Championship held in Brewster, Mass. Santora and Antonelli respectively placed 52nd and 63rd in the event. The fall season is over, but the work has just begun. The team knows it will have to continue its good performance in the spring if it wants to make the NCAA tournament. Lady Vikings Close Season 9-8 By Adam McQuarrie / Log Staff The Lady Vikings’ field hockey team managed to win out the regular season, which was almost necessary to clinch a playoff spot after the 1-0 loss to Keene State. Keene State then went on to beat Western Connecticut State 3-2 and in Salem State’s final game of the regular season they beat Framingham State College with a score of 4-3. With the win over the Framingham State Rams, Salem State finished the regular season 9-7 overall; 6-5 in the Little East Conference; and 4-1 in the Massachusetts State College Athletic Conference, winning the pro- gram’s first MASCAC championship since 1999 and its 10th since conference play began in 1976. The Lady Vikings advanced to the playoffs as the fifth seed and played the fourth-seeded University of Southern Maine Huskies on November 4th. The Vikings led the game with a score of 1-0 at halftime. Unfortunately the only scoring in the second half was done by the Huskies, as they tied the game in the 46th minute and then scored the go-ahead goal in the 67th minute, eliminating the Lady Vikings and ending the 2008 season at 9-8. The road to the MASCAC Finals started at Alumni Stadium on Wednesday, November 5, as the Vikings hosted the Bridgewater State Bears. Salem would handily beat the Bears, advancing to its third MASCAC final in the past four years. Senior midfielder Yuta Kizaki scored the first goal of the game at about the 55-minute mark off a pass from senior forward Willer Nogueria. Shortly thereafter, senior defender Paddy Boscoe put a penalty kick in the back of the net that would make the game 20. To put the game completely out of reach, Kizaki scored another assisted by Nogueria yet again to end the game at 3-0. Senior goalkeeper Pawel Brzykcy had three saves in the shutout. Second-seeded Salem then traveled to Framingham, Mass., to play the first-seeded Framingham State Rams in the MASCAC Finals. Framingham scored with very little time left in the first half. The Rams scored again at the 70-minute mark, making the game 2-0. The Vikings took a while to get their offense going, but finally scored with a goal from freshman forward Ali Kaba at the 86-minute mark. What followed was a flurry of offense by Salem, culminating in a shot off the side post. The Vikings could not find the back of the net, however, and Framingham took the victory. The Vikings may have been knocked out of the Finals by rival Framingham State, but the players have every reason to hold their heads high. Ending the season with a record of 14-4-1, there were many things that stood out about the Salem State Men’s soccer team. Supported by a strong defense, Brzykcy managed eight shutouts this season. Five players were also named to All-Conference teams. These players were Kizaki (all-conference first team), Junior Forward Andrew Angus (all-conference first team), Nogueira (All-MASCAC), Boscoe (Second team AllMASCAC), and Freshman Matt Figueiredo (Second Team AllMASCAC). Figueiredo was also named MASCAC Rookie of the Year. Men’s Soccer By Zac Champigny / Log Staff