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LET’S TALK FASHION Drago: Fashion for $20 something PAGE 3InsideHOPE OFFERS GYM HELP Offers students a personalized lesson in Fitness 101 PAGE 3

Students Find ‘Soul’ In Harlem

MARCH 2, 2010

By Dom DellosReporter

DAN KIMBROUGH / MU COMMUNICATIONS DEPTThe Apollo Theater in Harlem, NY is famous for their amateur night and has been known to launch celebrities’ careers such as Arsenio Hall. (cont. on page 7)

Students toured Harlem, NY on Feb. 20.

MU students, faculty, friends and family discovered an evolving Harlem on Saturday, Feb. 20 during a trip sponsored by MU Multicultural Education. The trip began at the famous Cotton Club for a Gospel brunch followed by a walking tour of Harlem given by Harlem Memorial Tours. Students then had the options of exploring Harlem a little more with some free time, or enjoying a movie about the Harlem Renaissance before heading back to Dallas. The Cotton Club is a world famous night club that featured well-known jazz musicians including Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, and it was infl uential during the Harlem Renaissance. Even though it is in a different location from the original hotspot, it doesn’t lack a thing. Students could feel the its history as they examined the old black and white photos that show the Cotton Club during the Renaissance period. As the aroma of the hot soul food fi lled the air, many couldn’t wait to enjoy what the chef had prepared. Served in a buffet style, eggs, sweet potatoes, grits, a variety of vegetables, fried chicken, macaroni and cheese and hot rolls were among the long list of items available. “The food is delicious. It has such a unique taste that you couldn’t get anywhere else,” said freshman Drew Jadick. “I

just want to keep going back up for more.” Following the meal, everyone was treated to a lively Gospel singing performance by Miss Helen and her band, which performed traditional church songs that many students could recognize. She called those in the crowd to the stage to clap to the beat and sing along. “My favorite part of the trip was the singing by Miss Helen. I’m a huge Gospel fan and I know and love all of the songs she sang,” said Tiffany Carty, a 2009 graduate of MU. “Singing is the comfort of family.” After the Cotton Club, the group pounded the pavement, led by tour guides who had grown up in Harlem. Block by block, the guides shared Harlem’s historic beginnings and explained how it changed over time and continues today—during what they call its “second renaissance.” The guides emphasized that Harlem has the lowest crime rates of any of New York City’s fi ve boroughs. They said people with higher incomes have restored many of the neighborhoods’ historic buildings, and many residents are aided by social service programs that treat addiction, Harlem has been turning for the better since the 1970s. “It brought back memories of the era and of my own participation in the history of it,” said Dr. Jim Ladelle, a

CFC 8

Two days off and knee-deep in snow... exclusive photos and story

Only on highlandernews.net:

‘Snowicane’ hits MU

Haitian relief projects going strongBy Andrea OrtonReporter

MU sponsored events have raised over $4,000 for relief, and more events are scheduled.

MU has been doing its part to raise money for Haiti after a devastating earthquake rocked Port-au-Prince on Jan. 12. Campus Ministry and Student Government Association (SGA) are working hard to raise funds and gather supplies for those suffering more than 1,500 miles away. Sophomore Caitlin Day, president of the Resident Hall Association (RHA), was pleased with the students’ generosity at the Super Bowl party Sunday, Feb. 7 in the Blacktop Lounge. “We had a Super Bowl party last year and were already in the process of planning another Super Bowl party for this year. Kristen Mitchell from Campus Ministry

contacted us to ask if we wanted to help [raise funds] for Haiti,” she said. Students paid a $3 admission fee to enjoy the game, and food was donated by Metz Corp. and Domino’s pizza. But it wasn’t just the food that attracted students – donations were also collected at the event. With a turnout of 28 students, RHA was able to raise $84 with all proceeds going towards Haiti. SGA amassed $200 during their “Hands for Haiti” fundraiser. Each student donates any amount he chose in exchange for a hand with his or her name on it, which was hung in the windows of the lobby of Banks. “We’re working along with

Campus Ministry to bring this all together and get involved with as much as we can,” said junior Ryan Doran, SGA Judicial Coordinator. “We hope to go to grocery stores such as Weis and Foodtown and do grocery bagging, [which is] volunteering to bag groceries for the supermarket and asking them for donations.” Hats for Haiti is an event sponsored by new campus club Cinemaddicts. Junior Eleni Konstas, president of Cinemaddicts, came up with the idea when she offered to make Dan Kimbrough, assistant professor of communications and advisor for the club, a crocheted hat. Together, with the help of Erica Acosta, Kimbrough

and Konstas teamed up with occupational therapy students to make and sell hats in the Blacktop Lounge on Sunday, Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. “Dan had known that they [OT students] had done a knitting activity last semester,” Konstas said. Cinamaddicts, along with Resident Advisor junior Sam Scalpone, also sponsored a belly dancing lesson on the same day at 6:30 p.m. in the Sandy and Marlene Insalaco Hall. The cost was $5 and all proceeds will benefi t Haiti relief. Students can contact Campus Ministry for more information about MU’s Haiti relief plans.

• Student Athletic Advisory Committee donated $893 by waiving the entry fee at two

basketball games.

• Residence Hall Association raised $84 from their Super Bowl party.

• Dr. Maureen Pascal, assistant professor of physical therapy, and her husband Andre

coordinated donations and brought tents to Haiti for families in need. Andre left for Haiti

on Sunday, Feb. 21.

• Student Government Association raised $200 in their Hands for Haiti campaign.

• The Resident Advisors of the townhouses are organizing a run on campus to raise

money. The run is scheduled for March 27 at 10 a.m. More information will be available

soon.

Speaking coursesoffer more than credits,page 3 Special coverage on page 2

Fighting zero band profile

highlandernews.netMARCH 2, 2010 2

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highland@misericordia.edu

Sarah HiteEditor-in-Chiefhites@misericordia.edu

Amanda JamiesonPrint Editorjamiesa2@misericordia.edu

Eleni KonstasWeb Editorkonstase@misericordia.edu

Multimedia EditorMichele Drago

dragom2@misericordia.edu

The Highlander is a free, biweekly pub-lication produced in conjunction with MU Communications De-partment. Any full-time student is encouraged to join the staff.

We are a member of the American Scholas-tic Press Association, Associated Collegiate Press, and the Penn-sylvania Newspaper Association.

The Highlander works to produce up-to-date, clear, accurate reporting. If any information is inaccurate or not covered thoroughly, corrections and informa-tion will appear in this area. Opinions and views expressed in The High-lander in no way refl ect those of Misericordia University or the Sisters of Mercy. The Highlander staff welcomes students, faculty and reader re-sponse. The Highlander reserves the right to edit submissions for gram-matical errors and length. All submissions must be signed. Letters to the Editor and/or materials for publication may be submitted by any reader. Items can be sent via e-mail.

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STAFF

About the Bands:

CFC 8 Backstage Pass

This edition, The Highlander spoke to Scott VanFossen, guitarist and lead vocalist of Fighting Zero.

Concert has cause, heartBy Jake RakestrawReporter

Benefi t concert founded in 1999 had humble beginnings

The eighth annual Concert For A Cause (CFC) is set to rock and roll at the Woodlands Inn & Resort on April 22 to raise money for the United Way Veterans Services. The tradition and spirit of the show go back to April 1999. The show’s humble beginnings as Concert for Karen originally benefi tted leukemia and lymphoma to honor the death of Karen Greenberg Revit, a close friend of the many involved with the local music community. While the fi rst concert was held at Jitterbugs Nightclub in Edwardsville where Karen once worked, it grew so much that four years later it was held at the Woodlands Grand Ballroom. The event’s name was offi cially changed to Concert for a Cause in 2003 with a blessing from Karen’s mother. With the name change brought a yearly rotation of benefi ciaries, from VISION to United Way Autism and Leukemia Programs. Wilkes-Barre Mayor Tom Leighton offi cially proclaimed April 22 Concert for a Cause Day in the City of Wilkes-Barre in 2009 to commemorate the woman who served as the inspiration for the concert, as well as the founders and the hundreds of people who helped grow the event. Alan K. Stout, co-founder of CFC, said the event is more than just a benefi t concert -- it is a “pulling together of the community, from local bands to the media to various

sponsors.” This year, the concert has a sponsorship from Coors Light, advertising found in the Weekend and The Times Leader and commercials that will be heard on 97.9X and 97BHT. Everyone works hard to make the concert the success and “everyone’s hearts are in the right place,” Stout said. Stout said that the most challenging obstacle has been fi nding the “same original spirit” in the new bands and other newcomers who have joined CFC. “The original clubs are gone and there are only two original bands left. Everyone knew Karen in the beginning and as it’s grown from seven to 36 different bands. It’s hard for everyone to maintain the spirit that made the original concerts so special,” Stout said. Despite the hurdles, the bands always know exactly where the money is going and why they are there. “We’ll often get calls from bands after Christmas asking not who’s playing, but who the benefi ciary is,” said Stout. He is confi dent in the project he co-founded so many years ago. Throughout the past 11 shows the concert has proven itself one of NEPA’s most successful fundraisers, collecting over $176,000 since the beginning. This year’s concert, sure to continue with the tradition of rocking out in the name of benevolence, will consist of 34 bands and the set list will range from long time veterans like the Badless to new acts

such as Graces Downfall and local favorites like Flaxy Morgan. Music performed at this year’s concert will include something for everybody, from classic rock to reggae. A CD was also released on Feb. 4 called “Concert for a Cause 8: The Album.” The CD has soared to number one on the local album charts and features 27 songs from the artists who will be performing at the concert. Stout’s greatest memory is from the fi rst concert, during which a boy who had cancer for 10 years got up on stage and addressed the crowd. The young man feared people would snore instead of listen to him. “He told us his whole story [about] how he just graduated and received a football scholarship. The whole crowd went crazy; it was the biggest cheer I’ve ever heard. It was at that point I knew people were paying attention to us and the cause. That stays with me,” said Stout. Attending the concert isn’t

the only way to help the cause – the CD is still in stores and 100 percent of proceeds from the $5, two-disc set go to the United Way Veterans Services. For more information about CFC 8, go

to www.

concertforacausenepa.com, which includes tons of information about past and present shows, links to the artists involved and hundreds of photographs from past events.

Scott VanFossen, guitarist and lead vocalist, Steve Berlen on drums and Jon “Jonesy” Jones from Ashfall on bass make up the current line-up of Fighting Zero. This will be the northeastern Pennsylvania-based band’s fourth time playing Concert for a Cause. The Highlander: How long have you been playing together? Scott VanFossen: I started Fighting Zero in 2003 and have been swinging the hammer ever since. There have been a few lineup changes along the way, but what band hasn’t ever done that? Steve and I have also been in bands together in the past. Everything just clicks and it’s super slamming. Over time, we’ve worked with Grammy-winning producer Sylvia Massy, Jim Wood of Dishwalla, John Cuniberti, and Dan Malsch to put out some killer tunes. H: What would you classify

your sound as? SV: This is a

tough

question, but I always say that we’re modern heavy rock. Everything I write is super melodic in nature, has giant hooks and some ear candy for the music lovers out there. We’ve been compared to Three Days Grace, Tool and Breaking Benjamin before. While they’re all great bands, I put Fighting Zero’s music up against their stuff and ask, “What part of this sounds like them?” There’s only the similarity that it’s heavy rock; we have our own fl avor and hope you like the taste. H: Is there a signifi cant meaning to your band name? How did you decide upon it? SV: There’s absolutely a meaning to it. Fighting Zero describes everybody’s struggle with trying to keep their job, keep a girlfriend/boyfriend, have a house, a life, money, etc. We all don’t want to end up with zero. Nada. It’s the fi ght we face everyday. We’re fi ghting against having nothing. I decided upon the name because I felt it applied to not only me, but the music that was coming out of me as well as everyone around me. It applies to everyone. H: Who writes the majority of your music? Describe your writing process. SV: I’m the sole writer for Fighting Zero. Typically, the song will just basically present itself as either a chorus or a verse, and then it just grows from there. Depending on how I’m feeling, an idea will come out as the central focus of the tune that just works. After I

get the overall song, structure (and everything else) down, I bring it to the band and ask them to add, subtract, enhance, rework and just hammer (it out). That’s how the Fighting Zero sound makes it out there. I might have the song written, but it’s a team effort to put the tunes into your ears. When we worked with Sylvia Massy (a producer who’s worked with bands like Tool, Powerman 5000 and System of a Down), we had the tunes already done in pre-production for her. When we actually laid the tracks down for the album, there were some tweaks made, but everything was written by us. H: Any advice for people considering forming a band? SV: If you’re going to form a band, be fl exible. Not everybody is you, but be strong and weed out the people holding you back from having fun with it. The name of the game is to have fun. If you’re not, then it’s time to fi nd a new band. Seriously, do it for the love of it and let as many people as you can listen to your stuff. H: Did you know each other before creating the band? SV: Yeah, Steve and I have known each other since about 2002. He was the fi rst guy to ever lay down some demo tracks that eventually made their way to ESPN. They were looking for promo material and hit us up. I’ve known Jonesy since about 2005 or so because Fighting Zero started playing

with Ashfall at a bunch of shows. We just always ran into each other. Ashfall is some good peeps and Jones is stepping up to the FZ (Fighting Zero) plate until we fi nd a permanent member. H: If you could place yourselves in any other band, past or present, what would it be? SV: I wouldn’t want to goof up any of those bands, so I’d rather just watch. I seriously love being in Fighting Zero; it’s my life. H: Do have a favorite venue to play? SV: This is a tough one. We’ve played a ton of venues in the extended tri-state area. One of my favorites had to be Fletcher’s in Baltimore, Md. though. The load-in (is diffi cult), but the stage and people are killer. Runner up would have to be The VooDoo Lounge (RIP). H: Has the band had a favorite show in particular? SV: We opened the day of CrueFest ‘08 (Toyota Pavilion) with Motley Crue, Papa Roach, Trapt and Sixx AM. Killer day! Second to that was a show we played at Southern Lehigh Middle School -- the kids were freaking out and made it insane. Great show. H: What are your plans for the future? SV: Right around the bend, we have some new music coming out for “Beautiful War: Part 2,” which is a follow-up to part one. A single titled “Drain” is on the latest Concert for a Cause 8 compilation CD,

or you can check it out on our Bandcamp site. It’s a single that is mixed by Jim Wood (of Dishwalla) and a great foreshadowing of what will be on part two, slated for some time in 2010. Jim is doing all of the mixing on this album, also. The video for “Change My Mind” was such a hit that another self-produced music video is in the works. There’s tons of recording and planning all to be had. Not to leave out recording bands, video projects and producing/songwriting all at my studio/record label. It’s busy, but I’m blessed to be busy. Just keep pushing. H: What other bands or artists do you follow? Who inspired you to play? SV: I like to follow as much music as I possibly can. It’s what makes the world go round. I love supporting local music, obviously. I was exposed to musicians in my family at a very early age and they, in conjunction with my super supportive parents, got me playing guitar. I listened to everything from Jimi Hendrix, Led Zepplin, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Metallica and Yngwie Malmsteen, to name a few. I love the blues and have a very deep root in that. I currently follow anything local. On my iPod I have COG, Sevendust, Dead Letter Circus, Chevelle, Innerpartysystem and Muse to name a few; I like to mix it up.

— Compiled by Matt Braithwaite

The Highlander is proud to support Concert for a Cause 8. The Highlander will profi le a different band each issue along with a series covering Concert for a Cause 8. MU’s Cougar Radio will be part of an hour-long program to be played on college radio stations in the Wyoming Valley, where students will interview the bands performing at the show. This year the event will take place April 22 at The Woodlands Inn & Resort, and it will benefi t the United Way Veterans Services. The concert will feature over 30 local bands on four stages. Bands such as 40-Lb. Head, k8, Bad Hair Day, The Five Percent, Flaxy Morgan, Pancea, and M-80 will be shredding for service. Admission is $7. The CD featuring the performers of CFC 8 is on sale at the Gallery of Sound for $5.

highlandernews.netMARCH 2, 2010 3

LET’STALK

FASHIONBy MICHELE DRAGO, Multimedia Editor

highlandernews.net 2

What’s your style? Let’s talk fashion!E-mail me at dragom2@misericordia.edu.

This edition, The Highlander spoke to Scott VanFossen, guitarist and lead vocalist of Fighting Zero.

Tuesday March 23rd Banks Dinning Hall & Lobby

Featuring:Blood Pressure Screenings

Information TablesA Healthy Cooking Demonstration

Nutrition Game ShowPrizes, giveaways, and much more!

Join us for the 1st Annual Nutrition Fair

Pilot courses speak for themselvesThe two speaking intensive classes are designed to help students choose their words wisely.By April DulskyContributor Public speaking is the focus of two new pilot courses offered at MU this semester. Art, Self, and Community in the Modern World and Public Speaking and Communication are unlike any other classes existing at MU. That’s because they are pilot courses that revolve around teaching students how to effectively and professionally speak before groups. Dr. George Sprengelmeyer, chair of the fi ne arts department, and Melissa Sgroi, chair of the communications department, are helping students overcome their fears and sharpen their skills by offering direction and advice. “I’m trying to use this oral presentation core pilot class as a way to actually teach oral presentations and chart students’ progress,” said Sprengelmeyer. Sgroi’s Public Speaking class focuses on speaking and engaging larger audiences. Students from this class can be seen on campus speaking in different locations where

not only their peers can hear them, but the rest of MU as well. “Sgroi wants us to be shined up like new pennies so she’s having us do speeches in the [Cougars’] Den and places where there’s going to be other people there besides just our class,” said junior Amanda Jamieson. The fi ne arts core class will be still learning about modern art, but instead of just traditional exams about art, music and architecture, students are expected to give several oral presentations to teach the class about certain topics. “The best way to become desensitized to the fear when you give an oral presentation is to do it,” said Sprengelmeyer. Students are placed in small groups in which they each get their own topic to present. “I think that the fact that Dr. Sprengelmeyer offers us criticism and working in a group as well as doing your own information will allow us to benefi t from the projects,”

said sophomore Aimee DiLucido. Sprengelmeyer said current technology can be a crutch that prevents many students from experiencing communication in its proper form. “I think with our technology these days writing is becoming less and less of a skill that people learn so I think both writing and speaking are weak points for students,” said Sprengelmeyer. Many students reveal that their weak points are the tension and pressures they experience while in the spotlight. “I had to do my fi rst speech on save the pandas and I just started talking about how I love pandas and they used to call me Amanda panda bear, and I realized they were dying and I freaked out. It was all over the place,” said Jamieson. Other students believe public speaking is not as much of an obstacle, but they still feel some anxiety. “It honestly doesn’t bother me as much as it probably does other people,

but I think that’s just because I am so used to it,” said junior Kristen Gazowski. Some believe that if a person can effectively speak in front of a group of people, they will be more likely to get a job—or a promotion. “If you had some experience in front of the class of 27 people and now you are in front of three people, it’s going to be that much easier,” said Sprengelmeyer. Instead of a written fi nal exam, the two classes hope to have a large session where both classes can combine to speak. “For the fi nal presentation Dr. Sgroi and I are hoping to bring our two classes together and have a group presentation,” said Sprengelmeyer. “I think it will be a lot of fun if we get everyone together and have a supportive environment.” Students are looking forward to reaping the benefi ts that these two classes have to offer. “Overall, I need work so I hope to God this works,” said Jamieson.

HOPE encourages health, offers helpStudent duo calls Fitness 101 into sessionBy Kate BuntonReporter Healthy Options Peer Educators (HOPE) is offering MU students a new program on campus this semester – Fitness 101. HOPE, a student group whose mission is to address “Body, Mind and Spirit Wellness,” wants to bring fi tness awareness to the student body. A follow-up to HOPE’s kickoff project, “Mirrorless Mondays,” Fitness 101 is an opportunity for anyone interested to gain personal knowledge about getting in shape. Two MU students are offering their time and energy to provide fi tness education. Alex Freaky is a senior who has been an ACE Certifi ed Personal Trainer since he was in high school, and Lottie Johnson is a senior sports management major and HOPE member. The duo teamed up to create Fitness 101, and they tailor program to everyone’s personal needs. According to Johnson and Freaky, all students should take advantage of the program. Students who are unsure about how to use the gym, for example, can receive a lesson on the basics, while more experienced exercisers can learn about proper technique or new equipment. “It’s not super serious, more just education,” said Freaky. He said this should help qualm the fears of those intimidated by hitting the gym. Both Freaky and Johnson seem to agree that small steps are better than none. Students who have already begun working with Fitness 101 have simple goals – to learn. The duo said Fitness 101 hopes to encourage more students to include exercise in their routine, and add to the numbers of regulars who populate the gym. “If you go early in the morning, the same faces are always there, or if you go at lunchtime. People develop a routine around their schedule,” said Freaky. Johnson said even though fi tness is “really important, it

often gets lost in the shuffl e. If you establish good habits in college, they are more likely to carry through the rest of your life.” While establishing good habits may lead to visible positive results, she said many are unaware of the greater benefi ts of regular exercise. The intention of “Mirrorless Mondays” was to bring awareness to the value of inner beauty, and Fitness 101 has a similar goal. While a fi t body certainly looks different on everyone, the internal result is the one that really matters. Good physical fi tness positively affects mental health. The focus of the program is not necessarily weight loss or muscle-building, but “feeling good in our bodies and knowing how best to do that,” said Dr. Cindy March, the head of the Counseling Center and acting faculty advisor for HOPE. Exercise “affects our overall sense of self, besides the endorphins being released,” she said. Good physical fi tness is like a one-two-punch to low self-esteem. It increases the release of endorphins, a chemical naturally produced in the brain during exercise. Endorphins reduce the body’s perception of pain as well as trigger a positive morphine-like feeling in the body, commonly referred to as “runner’s high.” Physical exercise is also a fantastic outlet for stress relief. March points out that exercise improves the overall quality of life. “Our self image improves when we feel our bodies are in shape, confi dence rises,” she said. Exercise can be an extra boost to anyone, even those who already feel on top of his or her game. Gym memberships and personal training can be costly, and most college students are likely to spend extra cash elsewhere, but personal training sessions offered by Fitness 101 are free. Many students already have

Jason Wu’s age while designing Michelle Obama’s inauguration dress. The ago of LiLo after she designed her not so hot, heart cut out clothing. Snookie’s age when fi st pumping at the chic shore. And Owner Jessica Gabel’s age when starting her fi rst budget friendly boutique of the same name. Twenty Something. Gabel has just opened the hottest hotspot to hit downtown Wilkes-Barre where anyone can consign away. Twenty Something is the next best thing since Dash Miami, except I think it’s priced just right. The store has more dazzling designer labels for lands, Juicy, Coach, Prada, Fendi, Betsey Johnson, Ugg. It’s like Miley’s closet without the last season cowboy boots that her boyfriend can pull off better then her. Some go to girls love the luxurious looks of fashion, and according to Gabel that’s why the store was started. “I have a love for fashion and being able to bring it to college students in the area is a plus.” Shopping consignment is so much more fab and glam then dishing out the dough. I’m always in for a good sale. Clearance anyone? The quality of the couture is incredible. I spotted a signature Coach satchel on the shelves that looked like it came right of the icy white wall of the 5th Avenue Coach store and then was just magically dropped in downtown Wilkes Barre. It can’t get any better then that. Gabel’s love for fashion is as deep as mine goes, to the point where I wish savvy stores like Twenty Something were like Wal-Mart---open 24/7. The only thing better then going in the store and seeing the racks of radiance is getting sale after sale When I went into the store---something I have added to my to do list at least once a week---I bought the most adorable Big Bird yellow short pea coat jacket that looked like it came straight off Blair Waldorf’s back. The best part about it was the slashed savings. The crazy colored

coat was $12, defi nitely a price Juicy can’t justify. When I met Gabel, she had brought in one of her own shirts that she designed from an American Apparel white plain tee. She had turned it into absolute style brilliance by adding black gems, grey tie die, and a black poof that made the shirt ultra glam and fashion fabulous. Twenty Something not only has perfect prices but store hours to fi t into any fashionista’s schedule. The sleek store is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 11:30 – 8:30, Thursday from 10:30 – 9:30 and Saturday from 10-5. The stores logo is more legit then any stylish boutique around. “Affordable fashions for the style conscious,” is the best way to describe this delight designer domain. “You’re utilizing something that’s only been worn a few times,” said Gabel. The store not only consigns, but is a place for local artists to sell their creations. Gabel said the store is getting designers from all over Luzerne County to make cute accessories like buttoned jewelry and haute handbags. Gabel has also just added a old school vintage section that offers proper vanilla pearls made when years like Breakfast at Tiffany’s debuted. This classy coutured boutique is a must. I’ve bought the cutest fl owered imprint dress and I can’t wait to tell you the details---next time.

MICHELE DRAGO / THE HIGHLANDER

Psych student to present research at national conferenceSenior Michael Bobrowski will be the fi rst undergrad psychology student from MU to present at the national conference.

By Highlander Staff Reports

MU undergraduate psychology student Michael Bobrowski is going to present at national and international conferences the results of two independent research projects he conducted with MU faculty members. Bobrowski, a senior at MU, co-authored, “The Implicit and Explicit Preference of African-Americans and Caucasians with Respect to Perceived Occupational Prestige,’’ with Ryan O’Loughlin, Ph.D., a former assistant professor of psychology at MU. The student researcher used a computer program and surveys to measure college students’ implicit and explicit stereotypes of race and occupational status. Bobrowski will make a poster presentation on their fi ndings in March at the 2010 Convention of the Eastern Psychological Association in New York City, the 81st annual meeting of the association. In May, Bobrowski will present the independent research project, “Self-Effi cacy and Locus of Control as Predictors of Academic Adjustment Across Genders,’’ that was supervised by Alicia Nordstrom, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology at MU, and co-authored by Marnie Hiester, Ph.D., professor and chair of psychology at MU; and Lisa Swenson, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology at Penn State-Hazleton, at the 22nd annual convention for the Association for Psychological Science in Boston. The Association for Psychological Science is one of the leading international research organizations in the fi eld of psychology and has more than 20,000 members. Bobrowski is the fi rst undergraduate psychology major at MU to present his

research at the conference. Bobrowski analyzed data he gathered from a longitudinal and multi-site study to see if fi rst-semester college students’ beliefs about their abilities and their sense of having control over situations affected their successful adjustment to college and their grade point averages, and if the effects were different for males and females. According to Bobrowski, the study found that a person’s sense of control did affect their academic adjustment to college regardless of gender. He found that students who believed they had the ability to succeed academically and attribute their success to their efforts rather than luck had better academic adjustment to college in their fi rst year. Overall, the study suggests that men might have a greater need than women to view their success as stemming from hard work as opposed to luck or the situation.

Dr, Alicia Nordstrom, left, Michael Bobrowski, right

(cont. on page 5)

highlandernews.netMARCH 2, 2010 4

Cougar Radio preps to keep claws in checkBy Will McHaleReporter

Cougar Radio will enact new policies for on-air personalities.

New rules are on the way for on-air radio personalities at Cougar Radio, whose slogan is “Music you can sink your teeth into.” CGR hopes for acquisition of an on-air license from the Federal Communications Committee (FCC) is generating buzz and that necessitates professional content—and conduct. “We are waiting on the availability of a low-power FM license,” said Dan Kimbrough, assistant professor of communications. This license would enable Cougar Radio to be broadcast live throughout the Dallas and Back Mountain region. Years ago, the Sisters of Mercy operated a radio station with an FCC license, but in recent years Cougar Radio has only been accessible online through continuous streaming at cougarradio.net. “[After getting its own frequency], not everyone listening to Cougar Radio will be a college student, and the radio DJs need to keep that in mind,” said Kimbrough. Kimbrough said the content will be reformatted and restructured, including scheduled public service announcements, news bulletins and station identifi cation that will “limit the amount of free time,” said Kimbrough. Student deejays and hosts will be required to

keep on-air discussions factual and professional. Radio personalities are required to keep their new, broader audience in mind as anyone near the Dallas area will be able to access Cougar Radio. On-air conversations must be limited to specifi c and appropriate information, and music should also be socially appropriate. Kimbrough said all CD selections will be screened for content prior to addition to Cougar Radio’s music library, and all music selections by radio personalities will need to be screened for explicit material. Station workers will also rate CDs and organize them into Cougar Radio’s growing music library to make the station more suitable for its larger listening audience. Kimbrough is also taking steps to ensure on-air conversation meets behavioral and procedural standards—many of which are set for the FCC. The station will conduct regular air checks to monitor content, said station manager Ashley Ballard. “We’ll simply be listening to make sure students are doing what they’re supposed to,” she said. Ballard will also provide training to students during station meetings. Air checks help on-air personalities too because students can critique their shows. Ballard said shows will

be logged in case an incident involving inappropriate behavior arises and needs to be reviewed. This new structure didn’t just come out of the static. Kimbrough and Melissa Sgroi, communications department chair, play a major part in making sure Cougar Radio is run smoothly and professionally, but there are other contributing parties. According to Kimbrough, Cougar Radio’s behavioral policy takes elements directly from the FCC as well as neighboring radio stations. Meddling with the music will be easier than ever for students. The radio station will be moved from the Banks Student Life Center lobby to a new, larger and better-equipped room located in the freshly-completed recreation area of Banks. Kimbrough hopes the new digs will increase student involvement. Kimbrough has been the advisor to Cougar Radio since fall of 2008 and he believes the style and location of the new room will make it easier for students to see and interact with radio DJs. Students don’t need to be communication majors to be involved. Cougar Radio welcomes all students, who can serve as on-air personalities, contributors of music or just extra help behind the scenes.

Attentio

n

Graduates

Your next step to commencement takes place onMarch 15, 2010

Stay tuned for the re-launch of Cougar Radio in the new Student Recreational Center located in Banks Student Life Center

CGR disc jockeys hope to be heard over the airwaves as opposed to the current online streaming system.

ELENI KONSTAS / THE HIGHLANDER

highlandernews.net 4 highlandernews.netMARCH 2, 2010 5

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COUGAR SPORTSTrainers attempt to knock out concussions

By Mike PenaReporter

MU trainers take effective steps to detect potential head injuries among student athletes.

Whenever a college athlete takes to the fi eld, court or track, they risk their bodies, and a concussion can often be an overlooked injury. A concussion is a type of trauma to the head and brain. When not properly treated, a concussion can interrupt neurological functions such as motor controls, language cognition and basic recovery. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has increased its concussion policies in the past fi ve years. Players from many sports receive concussion tests at the beginning of their seasons. These tests include saying the alphabet backwards, naming all of the states in the United States, walk in a straight line and reciting the months of the year. The results are recorded and compared to results taken from a player who is believed to have a head injury. Contact sports are heavily monitored by athletic trainers on the collegiate level. Football sustains the most head injuries due to helmet-to-helmet contact. Wrestling fi nishes in a close second place. Many athletes go about three years without getting treatment even if they have only some of the symptoms of a concussion, according to MU athletic trainers Robin Jackson and Jayme Galdier. Jackson and Galdier work hard to heal athletes and return them to their respective sports after head injuries. The MU coaching staff teaches proper techniques when it comes to contact with other players. “Concussions usually occur

in impact sports, or sports involving projectiles. Also, a sport that includes players falling on their heads increases the risk of head injuries,” Galdier said. “It is not just contact sports.” There are many ways that concussions or other head injuries can be prevented. Athletes can take simple steps such as strengthening the neck during workouts and stretch sessions. They must also use proper technique when it comes to contact sports. Concussions must be treated as soon as possible. Galdier said athletes might believe that symptoms will go away after a certain period of time, but he recommends that all athletes get treatment as soon as a violent blow to the head occurs. “Being an athletic trainer here at Misericordia benefi ts the players because we get to see them every day. We get to observe player behaviors before and after a suspected concussion. Athletic trainers at schools throughout the country have a bit of an advantage compared to [emergency room] doctors because we see the players every day.” Galdier adds. “We also keep players sidelined from activity and we re-evaluate them daily. Lastly we progressively return them to their teams provided the players have no symptoms of the initial concussion.” These symptoms include confusion, sleep disturbance, anxiety, double

or blurred vision and fatigue. If an athlete has any of these symptoms they should be checked immediately. “If anyone sustains a concussion, they should immediately rest their heads. Until the players are symptom free, we tell them to avoid

TV, schoolwork if they can, no computer use, or phone use. The best way to rest is to just [lie] down and sleep,” said Galdier. Trainers encourage anyone who has symptoms of a concussion to visit them right away.

Post-concussion syndromeThis syndrome is a complex disorder in which symp-toms occurring post-concussion can last for weeks,

months or sometimes years.

Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, irritability, anxiety, insomnia, loss of concentration or

memory and noise and light sensitivity.

Headaches can vary, but most are considered tension headaches, due to a possible neck injury occurring at

the same time as the incident that caused the concussion.

For some, emotional or behavioral changes may signify post-concussion syndrome, as sufferers may start to become more irritable, suspicious, argumentative or

stubborn.

The treatment for post-concussion syndrome is aimed to alleviate specifi c symptoms the person may have.

Source: MayoClinic.com

HOPE, cont’d.continued from page 3

Physical Fitness Tips• Choose something you enjoy

Walking is a simple way to kick-start any fi tness plan. Try a new fi tness class or go to the gym with a friend

to keep the activity fun.

• Make time, graduallyAn alternative to setting aside one big block of time for exercise is to break up your fi tness in chunks through-out the day. Stretch for 10 minutes between classes to wake up your muscles, or go for a short walk after

lunch.

Source: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website

busy schedules, which is why Johnson and Freaky point out the scheduling fl exibility of Fitness 101. The duo has a standing open appointment at 12:30 PM every Monday. They meet in the lobby of the Anderson Sports and Health Center before heading down to the fi tness center. Freaky is also available to schedule personal training appointments at other times, for those who may prefer an individual session or whose schedule does not fi t with Monday afternoon. Freaky is also willing to work with students on personal nutritional plans, which are not to be confused with diets, he said. “When you think of a diet it’s usually three months and you’re off of it, but a nutritional plan is a life-long change,” said Johnson. The duo seems genuinely excited about the chance to show students how to improve their lives. The goal really is to “feel good about yourself and be healthy,”

said Freaky. While some students may only want a single training session to learn how to work out on their own, Fitness 101 has a bigger plan for the future. Johnson and Freaky hope that with the completion of the new weight room in Anderson, Fitness 101 can fl ourish into a bevy of student-run programs. Freaky would like to see a fi tness club, weight training group and fi tness classes, and Johnson wants a student-focused, student-organized fi tness program. Students can look for the recently popular Zumba class, a type of dance-exercise, to be on the schedule. While classes and programs are offered by outside facilitators and faculty, this fi t duo hopes students will take the ball and run with it. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Alex Freaky at afreaky@yahoo.com or (570) 909-8626, and Lottie Johnson at johnsol2@misericordia.edu.

CGR disc jockeys hope to be heard over the airwaves as opposed to the current online streaming system.

highlandernews.netMARCH 2, 2010 6

We’ve got to ask... What do you think about MU’s decision to sell exclusively Coca-Cola products?

“I don’t mind it but I would like a better variety because when they got rid of the other products,

Dr. Pepper was taken out of the picture. I like Dr. Pepper.”

“I don’t drink much soft drinks anyway, but I do like the fact that they are sending some money

towards new gym equipment. I really don’t mind what company it is.”

Brian O’NeillJunior

Robert NelsonSophomore

“I think it’s good. I like coke products and our weight room needs to be expanded.”

Brent SalsmanFreshman

Pat NoonanJunior

Sean WilliamsJunior

“I think for the most part it doesn’t affect me all that much because I like Coke products and don’t

drink soda that much. I would have liked to (know) that the proceeds go towards gym equipment be-cause that feels like I am donating unknowingly.”

“I see it as a positive thing because I think we could use more gym equipment.”

“I think it’s good. I like Coke products and our weight room needs to be expanded.”

Let us know!E-mail

highland@misericordia.edu with your input and sugges-tions for future ‘We’ve got to

ask’ features.

— Compiled by Justin Mulligan

highlandernews.netMARCH 2, 2010 7Viewfinderhighlandernews.net 6

Harlem, cont’d.continued from page 1

professor of religious studies at MU. “I enjoyed the trip immensely. From the sights of it, the renaissance is continuing. It [Harlem] was vibrant and alive.” Erica Acosta, Multicultural Student Outreach Coordinator, said the goal of the trip was for people to understand this history at a deep level.

“The purpose of the trip was that I wanted the students and others to see where the Harlem Renaissance took place. The best way to get the message across is to experience it in person,” said Acosta. The trip cost $25 for students, which covered the round trip, dinner and show at

the Cotton Club and a walking tour. “It is such a great deal,” said freshman Tom Komor. “When I heard about it I couldn’t believe it. Being a college kid, I don’t have too much money for things, but this was definitely something everybody could afford. I hope we go back sometime.”

Above, participants of the Harlem trip paused to listen to their tour guide, George, give an insight to the historical presence of Harlem, NY.

Below, junior Megan McClary fills her plate with southern style soul food while at the Cotton Club.

Above, MU students, alumni, faculty and staff sing and dance on the stage of the Cotton Club while Miss Helen, far left, sang classic gospel music.

Below, junior Nikite Watson and freshman Tom Komor clap to the beat while on stage at the Cotton Club.

The Harlem YMCA was a refuge for African-American residents during the Harlem Re-naissance.

PHOTOS BY PROFESSOR DAN KIMBROUGH

What do you think about MU’s decision to sell exclusively Coca-Cola products?

highlandernews.netMARCH 2, 20108

YOUR LAST SHOT

Freshman Mike Pena snapped this photograph of Lake Street Elite, the student cheering section, during the men’s basketball game against Wilkes University.

SUBMIT YOUR OWN PHOTOS

The Highlander will publish original, undoctored photos submitted by students, faculty and staff in this section of the newspaper every two weeks. We reserve the right to reject any photo. If photos appear to have been manipulated, they will not be published. All photos must be accompanied by signed model clear-ances and captions.

HBelieves that each person is unique and

special in his or her own right,

Oa commitment to body, mind, and spirit will enhance a person’s self-confidence

and respect for self,

Ptherefore they have an ability to live

fulfilling and happy lives.

EFor more information contact:

Dr. Cindy March, srcindy@misericordia.eduJanelle Nemetz, nemetzj@misericordia.edu

Kristen Hoffman, hoffmank2@misericordia.eduJulia Traux, trauxj@misericordia.edu

AD DESIGN BY AMANDA JAMIESON

Counseling Center Sponsored Programs:Located Lower Level of McGowan Hall

Relaxation Program:Wednesday, March 3

4:30 pm

Eating Disorders Awareness and Screening DayMonday, March 15

10:30 – 1:30 p.m.*Private and Confidential