Virtual reality is evolving from science fiction, to something that’s not-so-fictitious

anymore.

“As you may glean from the name, this is a term given to

devices that augment the reality we already

inhabit.”

Tech 15

OpiniOns 5

The iconic 1980’s director understood teens so well; maybe we aren’t all rebels

without a cause.

“Select biopics reflect history, and make fine

efforts to minimize anachronisms, yet still

humoring their audiences.“

sTyle 10

These biographical films can become fine

candid photos of a historical figure’s life.

Marina Watts, Student

Matthew Tsuei, Student

Suzanne Peguero, Student

On Monday, the 21st, the 2014 Boston Marathon was run with a defiant, triumphant spirit. Many who had run in the marathon the year before had been injured by the bombing returned and successfully completed the race. There were many inspiring stories during this year’s marathon. Significant among them was the runner Meb Keflezighi.

Meb Keflezighi ran across the finish line as a symbol of national resilience. He is 38 years old and is the first American to win the men’s title for the Boston Marathon in 30 years; the last

American to win was Greg Meyer in 1983. Keflezighi is a three time Olympian whose previous best finish in the Boston marathon was in 2006; he finished third. Keflezighi

crossed the finished line ecstatically, with arms outstretched in a gesture of victory not only

for himself, but for those who had not survived the previous years bombings. On his bib, he wore the names of the three people who had died in last year’s marathon as well as the name of the officer from MIT who is believed to have been killed by the bombing suspect three days later. He finished the race in two hours, eight minutes, and 37 seconds.

Keflezighi was not the only hero during the marathon. A runner during the marathon fell close to the finish line and was unable to get up. Two runners

came by, and instead of moving him to the sidelines, they began to carry him to the finish line. A female runner came over and began to help, and then another runner also helped to carry the man. Altogether, the five runners made it to the finish line.

Altogether, 35,600 runners competed in this year’s Boston Marathon, making it the largest in history. Lives were broken that April, but it was not enough to keep the resilient American spirit at bay this year. The’s marathon truly demonstrated the phrase, “Boston Strong.”

RCC Commencement Is Coming!The academic year is almost

over, and this means one thing for many SUNY Rockland students: commencement! Every year, the grand ceremony takes place in the Field House. Friends, family, and professors at RCC are part of the audience, watching graduates get their associates degrees. It’s very exciting to go to, whether or not you will be receiving a degree. The green graduation gowns and caps are symbols of accomplishment. Pomp and circumstance fills the air, as the graduates file in and wait to “walk.”

Many students look forward to this exciting Sunday. “I feel that it can be influential to see other people excited to graduate and transfer,” one student comments on commencement. “I think it helps you feel like you’re starting a new chapter, being surrounded by that environment.” It is important, like a baby step leading up to the next

graduation, if that is what you are looking to pursue. “I think the commencement at a two year school is important, but not as important as the graduation for a four year college,” commented another student, as it bridges your academic experience.

Carlos Costoso, a sophomore graduating, is looking forward to May 18: “I’m really excited. I put in way too much time and effort to miss it.” After two years of stressful classes, the ceremony is a good motivator for students to do well, especially if

you are graduating as an honors student, like Costoso. The rigorous coursework and hours of schoolwork all becomes worth it once you receive your degree.

Prof. Josephine Tarsia, from the department of Foreign Language is looking forward

to the momentous occasion. “Commencement is on May 18 this year, a Sunday. All the faculty get dressed up in graduate regalia and walk down the aisle, then the students come and sit in the front. It’s a long ceremony, but it’s worth it to do it. It is a

wonderful day to celebrate one’s accomplishments, and there is a general feeling of happiness there. At the end of the ceremony, the students walk down the aisle, and if a teacher knows a student, they’ll shout and then the teacher and student will shake

hands. It is a wonderful day, and I think every student should go to commencement to celebrate what they have done.”

Celebrating this milestone is important as well, as many will have parties or go out for dinner with their loved ones in honor of their accomplishments. Students who are not graduating are encouraged to attend as well. By doing so, they will know what to expect when they complete their coursework.

Commencement is an important day for all

students at SUNY Rockland. The immense pride that fills the field house will be contagious, and make those not graduating even more eager to reach the goal of getting an associate’s degree. All are invited to attend and celebrate on May 18.

Suzanne PegueroManaging Editor

Volume 46 Issue 15

April 28, 2014

outlookpress.netRockland Community CollegeStudent PressOutlook

Marina WattsEditor In Chief

“John Hughes can see through my very soul, and

understood everything that I was feeling.”

Boston Marathon Shows American Resilience

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Even though the crisis in Syria has killed around 150,000 people, a presidential poll shows that the current president of Syria Bashar al-Assad is expected to return to power on June 3rd.

This will be the first presidential election in Syria since the constitutional amendments did away with the old referendum system. Parliament speaker Mohammad al-Lahham announced that Syrians living outside the country would be able to vote as well as those currently residing in the war-torn country. In regard to the voting system, Lahham said that it would be “free and fair...and under full judicial supervision.”

Lahham encouraged Syrians to vote, saying that they should “give voice to their will through the ballot box and participate in the democratic process by electing whoever they think is most able to lead Syria to victory.” He added, “We are confident that you will grant your

support...to whoever is worthy of leading and defending Syria, protecting its sovereignty and principles and ensuring a safer future where all Syrians enjoy

their rights without distinction.”Assad came to power after his father

Hafez, the previous leader of Syria, died in 2000. He was approved as president

for two terms (one in 2000 and another in 2007); however, in 2011, for political reforms and the re-instatement of civil rights. Subsequently, civil war erupted,

and Syria has been involved in one for over three years now.

The opposition is hostile toward voting and insists that al-Assad should

step down from power and have no role in Syria’s future.

There has been controversy surrounding al-Assad in the past for

the use of chemical warfare. While nothing has been and can be confirmed, it is highly suspected that he has given the OK in the past for the use of chemical warfare. On the 21st, the Obama administration said that it had “indications” that chemical warfare was being used earlier this month. It is unclear as to what America’s next move will be in regard to this, with the exception of White House Press Secretary Jay Carney stating that the matter is “being investigated.”

It is unsure as to how the presidential election will affect the already unstable Syrian political climate. While the Syrian government seems confident that this will help, opposition is already hostile toward it, while Jay Carney slammed the elections as a “parody of democracy”.

It will be interesting to see if al-Assad can stay in power, or if the opposition will overpower him.

Suzanne PegueroManaging Editor

Elections in Syria Cause Further UproarNews April 28, 2014

2

While many people think of Easter when they think of April, a much less known but arguably more important day is April 22, Earth Day. First recognized in 1970, Earth Day sees events held worldwide to raise awareness and demonstrate support for environmental protection. With more and more evidence proving that humans are having an undeniable negative impact on the environment, Earth Day is more important now than ever before.

This year, RCC celebrated Earth Day with events throughout the campus, which included a clean-up of College Road, yoga sessions, and a reptile demo. The winners of the Think Green contest were announced as well, which is an annual competition for students to create work that inspires others to get involved with helping the environment. This year’s winners were Kim Novak and Joe Cannata.

Corporations are of particular interest, as they have the largest impact on the environment. Primarily, the byproducts of manufacturing are what cause the greatest harm to the environment. As a result, “going green” is a common positive trend among many large companies these days. Apple Inc is one company that chose to make their environmental stance known on Earth Day 2014, by releasing a video narrated by their very own CEO, Tim Cook. In the video he outlines a few of the many measures Apple takes to do it’s part in reducing their environmental impact, such as engineering their computers to draw 90% less power than they did just 10 years ago along with ensuring that all of their products are free of mercury, PVC, arsenic, lead, VFR, and phthalates.

When products are eventually thrown away, these chemicals seep into the groundwater, and even worse, they can enter the air upon breaking down and break down the atmosphere. However, building products free of such chemicals is a new 21st century practice, and unfortunately, irreversible damage is extremely likely as a result. Another source of heavy pollution has been the use of oil and coal based electricity, and happens to be another area where Apple has showed responsibility and put forth effort to reduce their own impact. Apple requires enormous amounts of power to run the servers required to sustain their multitude of massive online services, such as iTunes and iCloud. Rather than relying on outdated and polluting sources, they have revealed that their data centers are powered 100% by renewable sources, primarily solar, wind, and geothermal power.

While these sound like small things, when you’re as large as Apple, they have a tremendous impact. But it can’t stop with just them, there is much work left to be done to help slow and maybe eventually reverse the impact we are having on the planet’s environment, and it’s going to take a combined effort of not just the companies of the world, but from the people as well. That’s what Earth Day aims to do, inform the public about not only current methods, but also outline areas where we still require improvement. For more information about Earth Day, you can visit their official organizational website at http://earthday.org

Matthew TseuiStaff Writer

Celebrating Earth Day at RCC and Beyond

RCC Student Joe Cannata gets involved with Earth week

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April 28, 2014 Features

For many at RCC, this May will be their final time entering the campus on College Road. Sophomores (or those who have completed their credits) are heading elsewhere. Onward and upward is the name of the game, and we are all taking different paths. Colleges and learning beyond the walls of SUNY Rockland await those ready for a new chapter in their life. With Commencement approaching on May 18, we all look back, and forward with what our future will bring.

Here, some students share their future plans with Outlook, as they look forward to where life after RCC will bring them.

Sarah Baradaran-Noviri: “Approaching

graduation is both exciting and nerve-wracking! I’m excited because I’m started a new chapter in my life as I begin to study dentistry. I am also nervous because I don’t want to make the wrong choice in which college I choose. In 10 years I will be graduated after eight more years of schooling to study o r t ho dont ic s , working, and with a family. I am leaning t o w a r d s Dominican College, Stony Brook University, and Fairleigh Dickinson. Time is ticking but by May 1, my decision will be made! I can’t wait and look forward to it!”

Valissa Hicks: “I am going to William Paterson University to study communications with a concentration in public relations. Hopefully in 10 years I will be working as an event coordinator out in California or in NYC. Ten years from now I’ll be 31 so marriage is definitely a possibility and kids are too but I never really plan that far ahead because I have always been in the moment kind of person but I’m excited to see what the future holds for me.”

Daniar Kadyrkulov: “I’m transferring to Binghamton in the fall to pursue a Bachelors in electrical engineering and a minor in acting. I also

hope to join an a Capella group there, specif ical ly the Crosbys. In 10 years time, I hope to be married with a two-year-old kid living by the beach in Connecticut.”

M a r i t z a M e n d o z a : “After RCC I am staying within SUNY and going

to either New Paltz or Binghamton. (Most likely New Paltz, it has a better Education program). I spent two years in the MTS Honors program focusing on math and science but thanks to RCC I had time to realize that I would like to pursue a degree in education instead. I am really thankful for the transition that RCC

provided me with which allowed me to blossom and grow. I am leaving RCC in May full of experience, good work habits, and valuable leadership skills which I will continue using in my future. I would like to teach childhood education and work

my way up to becoming a principal ten years from now. I also see myself married and traveling around the world teaching

children in impoverished areas but no children of my own yet.”

Miguel Gonzalez: “I’m actually taking

a semester (or two) to work. As you may know I work at Campus Fun and learn as a TA (teacher assistant). I might try to find another job and work two jobs to save up money for my studies. Ultimately I want to be a professor and teach some sort of art, like graphic designs or something more traditional like painting. In the future I do see myself married with at least two kids. But since I work with kids I understand not to rush the situation. Until then I will continue to paint, draw, explore and carve the path that will lead me to what I could achieve and become in ten years.”

Nicolle Villari: “Someone once asked me what I wanted to be. Now before I continue, there are four agreements in life in which everyone can learn from. Don’t take things personally, don’t assume,

understand the words you use and always do your best. Now in this situation when I was asked what I wanted to be, I broke a

rule. I ASSUMED they meant in the future; career wise, what I wanted to achieve in my many years to come. So in rebellion , I simply claimed, point blank ‘free.’ It’s ironic for a 21-year-old female in the 21st century, land of freedom and opportunity to say such a thing, for I have the right to vote, I have rights, but this is all I want to be. Once I achieve freedom, I know that I’ll fight for whatever is my next priority. But it’s interesting that freedom comes in different shapes and sizes- a relationship can be freeing, art can

be freeing- education is the key to freedom, yet everyday- I feel that in this freedom - we remain oppressed by the law of the land - and the stigma of culture - what we are brought up to think right and wrong mean- freedom comes from education- but in that freedom we must pay. Freedom is not free, but I wish to be.”

Brandon Tanis: “I am a Communication Media Arts student. This upcoming May, I am destined for graduation and I shall be receiving my AA degree. I will be transferring to SUNY Purchase to further my education and strive for the Bachelors degree in Journalism. Afterward, I hope to write for a high-end gaming firm that will give me the opportunity to cover the latest gaming news, rumors, previews, and reviews. Moreover, I will have the chance

to attend to a wide array of annual gaming conventions that occur throughout the year. Lastly, I plan on settling with my future wife in California, and we shall spend the rest of our lives together!”

Anonymous: “Well, I’m not sure where I’d be going after RCC. I’ve applied to CUNY Hunter, Smith College, Marymount, Columbia, and I haven’t gotten a letter of acceptance yet. I want to study comparative literature/fine arts. I see myself being an artist & a writer in 10 years, living in Albuquerque or Ireland, married with cats.”

Good luck to all students, those who are graduating and those who are still attending SUNY Rockland.

Marina WattsEditor In Chief

What’s Next? Life After RCC

4

Opinions April 28, 2014

10

Through hours and hours of countless film watching, there have been very few that have stuck with me. John Hughes’ “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” is high on that list, as I grew up watching it and know the script verbatim. Impacting my mindset during my time in high school and college, it has taught me to live life to its fullest, even if it means breaking a few rules.

For those of you unfamiliar with this cult classic, shame on you. It is one of the most brilliant, sophisticated teen movies out there. Go rent it after you read this article.

Almost 30 years old, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” follows slacker Ferris (Matthew Broderick) as he takes a personal day with his tense best friend (Alan Ruck) and beautiful girlfriend (Mia Sara). His delightful romp through Chicago is one for the books, as he checks out the Sears Tower, the Art Institute of Chicago, and rides a float during the German Day Parade.

I even went the distance of penning my SAT essay about why we should break the rules and cut school every now and again, citing Ferris as my muse for why

it is healthy. Needless to say, the College Board didn’t agree with my fantastical quipping, and my SAT scores were awful.

Nonetheless, the film has everything, as John Hughes epitomizes being a teenager in his work. Comedy, romance, an awesome 80s soundtrack, and even a cameo of Charlie Sheen playing a drug addict (oh, the irony). Most importantly, it is full of life lessons that shouldn’t be taken for granted.

It is, in fact, healthy to cut school. Not making a regular habit, of course. An escape from reality is crucial to the human mind when things seem to be closing in, especially during the tumultuous parts of our journey into adulthood. Between classes, exams, holding down a job or two, and experiencing “the feels” of pursuing

a romantic partner, life gets hectic. Fast. So much is happening so fast, and our thoughts are popcorn kernels in a movie theatre popper, as until we open a door to allow some stress out, it only gets increasingly chaotic.

Whether it is bumming around your place in pjs watching movies or going downtown and frollicking through Central Park and several museums, we should all take Ferris’s lead and escape.

Some people go to the movies as a form of escapism. Others take an intense amount of drugs and drink away their problems. However, the true adventurers are those who take off from school to pursue a learning experience outside of the classroom. You won’t be in high school or college forever. So, perhaps, it is in your best interest to take a day off from your resident institution and find adventure elsewhere.

Nonetheless, only the meek get pinched. The bold survive.

Ferris Bueller is a hero. Not necessarily one in a cape and colorful tights, but one who just wants to have fun. Ferris is a symbol of gratuitous pomp, under the circumstances. He also sees how profound reality is, and fearless enough to test the fates with a romp through Chicago that fine spring day. Ferris breaks the fourth wall, giving us his commentary about all that unfolds. The monologue about life in the first scene of the film is full of quotable quotes. He is candid, sharp, and self-centered (“it still wouldn’t change the fact that I don’t own a car”). But we love it!

Matthew Broderick’s character has become an icon. At one point or another,

your professor HAD to take attendance and say, “Bueller...Bueller…Bueller…” paying homage to the glorified slacker.

Psychoanalysts have been trying to push theories onto him, saying his pathological lying, a grandiose sense of self-worth, and his emotionless reactions to the tragic things around him are reasons to hate him as much as Ed Rooney, the dean of students, does. This narcissistic id is simply blown out of proportion; what kind of teenager DOESN’T think they know everything? Seriously?

Although his selfish ways and his mischievous lifestyle are all innocent

fun, he still gets the backlash of being a psychopath. If he really is that crazy, though, who’s to say we don’t need him?

Take his best friend, the insufferable Cameron Frye. He grew up in a broken home, with a father in love with cars and out of love with his mother. “A man with priorities so far out of whack doesn’t deserve such a fine automobile.” His cold childhood makes him such a nervous wreck that falling ill actually makes him feel better than normal. Someone as existential as Cameron needs someone as boisterous as Ferris in their life. His friendship with Ferris is a vacation day in itself, as the care-free attitude Ferris offers eases Cam’s tension.

Cameron and Ferris’ bromance is undeniable. Their psychological pairing behooves their respective lifestyles. No matter how many times Ferris does throw Cam into the crossfire, he does redeem his soul by singing for him on a parade float, or taking him to the top of the Sears Tower, as “Anything is peaceful from one thousand,

three hundred and fifty-three feet.” A meal encompassed with pancreas is even offered to the poor soul. The question isn’t “what are we going to do,” the question is “what aren’t we going to do?”

And his love life? Ferris Bueller insists he will marry Sloane, his gal pal. Even though he seems passive about the decision, it’s a strong thing to say and then pass off so lightly so soon. An open mind about the confusing feelings high school relationships foster is admirable. Instead of becoming heartbroken of her reluctant decline, he doesn’t let it get to him. Even when he once more breaks the fourth wall

and tells us that he will indeed marry Sloane, he is sincere, and passionate, as any young hopeless romantic would be.

Ferris is fearless. He encompasses traits that every kid wants: getting away with everything, being care-free, the works. He’s someone we should all look up to, even if we can’t be him. His actions are brazen, yes, and he challenges authority too regularly. But Ferris’ constant putting himself at risk is something we should appreciate, and take a risk every now and then. Isn’t that what experience is all about, anyway? If we don’t take chances now and learn from them, we will be stuck on a piece of wood floating in an ocean full of missed opportunities.

The most important thing we learn from Ferris throughout Hughes’ film? Not that teen angst sucks, or driving in reverse won’t take miles off of a Ferrari. “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

Marina WattsEditor In Chief

“Ferris Bueller, You’re My Hero”

5

April 28, 2014 Opinions

It was love at first sight. It was a Saturday in suburbia, and I was feeling particularly angsty that day. The rain was running across the living room window in streams, and I was curled up on the couch, bored with everyone and everything. I flipped through the channels on TV, hoping that

there would be something to watch when I heard the strains of the song “Don’t You Forget About Me.” It was (and still is) one of my favorite songs of all time, so I stayed on the channel and checked to see what it was. The movie was called “The Breakfast Club,” and I was instantly hooked. It was like the director John Hughes could see through my very soul, understand everything that I was feeling, and then articulate it into clever dialogue. After viewing that film, I went on a mission to watch every John Hughes movie that I could.

Out of everything he did, my favorite movies were the ones that featured Molly

Ringwald. Sure, “Ferris Buellers’s Day Off” is a classic (and I particularly identified with the character of Cameron Frye), but there was something about his Molly Ringwald films that I fell in love with. I appreciated the fun of his less serious films, but I identified

the most with his films about teenage girls. Normally, I don’t like films about women that men have directed because I never feel like they truly understand the feelings we have; and for the most part, they don’t. But John Hughes got it. He understood the boredom, the frustration, the joy we get from silly things, the angst, the confusion, and the heartbreak that seems to color everything when it happens. I held the holy trinity in high

regard—”The Breakfast Club,” “Sixteen Candles,” and “Pretty In Pink.” I watched these films over and over; these are some of the reasons that I loved them so much.

1. The clothes.Who hasn’t wanted every

single outfit Molly Ringwald wore in those movies? In “The Breakfast Club,” she wore a pink-cropped shirt with a brown skirt and boots. When I first saw the film, I immediately opened my closet to see if I could recreate it. It’s timeless look that always reminds me of the misunderstood high school princess. In “Sixteen Candles,” she wore an array of great outfits, but the one that always stood out to me was the pink dress she wore the for the dance scene. It was a soft, frilly pink

number with torn edges. To me, it was the perfect mix of girly and jagged. I ended up finding a dress like that; whenever I wore it, I felt pretty, feminine, and tough at the same time, which is my favorite way to feel. And don’t even get me started on “Pretty In Pink.” There were so many good outfits in that film I don’t even know where to begin (and don’t even get me started on Annie Potts character Iona). I wasn’t a fan of the deconstructed prom dress (because when you are given a 50’s/60’s styles prom dress, you cherish that masterpiece and do not deconstruct it), but I was crazy about everything else she wore,

especially that pink silk jacket. Her style in that film is the perfect vintage eccentric look. This all probably sounds inconsequential, but the thing is I loved how she always managed to express her character (and how she was feeling) through her clothes, e f f e c t i v e l y wearing her heart on her sleeve. You can call me shallow, but to me, it isn’t. It’s saying who you are and how you feel in a bold way.

2. The boys.I am pretty sure the reason

I have such incredibly high standards is because of the male characters in those three films. I have a crush on every one. The first one I fell in love with was Bender from “The Breakfast Club.” He was the essential bad boy: tough, grungy, intelligent, witty, sarcastic, and secretly

sensitive. Next was Jake Ryan. He was the perfect traditional American boy, and I swooned over him for an inordinately long amount of time. The final and most magnificent was Duckie. I am still in love with Duckie. I will always be in love with Duckie. From his style, to his swagger, to his impersonation of Otis Redding, and even the way he rode his bicycle, he was (and is) the perfect boy. Unfortunately, there is a reason these are characters in a movie,

but I can still hold out hope that a boy like Duckie is out there somewhere.

3. Molly Ringwald herself.There is a certain book I love. It’s by

Sylvia Plath, and it’s called “The Bell Jar.” In it, the main character feels confused; she’s a traditional pretty girl, but she feels like an invisible girl and a weird, misunderstood girl, too; and she isn’t sure which one to be. Molly Ringwald played all three: high school princess, invisible girl, and misunderstood weird girl. In all of

those roles, she seemed to be saying, “You don’t have to be only one of these things. You can be all of them.” This is principle that I have carried with me throughout all of life. I am a princess, and I am invisible, and I am weird and misunderstood, and I’m a poet and an artist, and I’m a punk, too. She demonstrated what the song “Resist Psychic Death” is about: the punkest thing you can do is defy definition.

I guess I’m getting sentimental, but I’m nineteen. It’s the end of my teen years, and I’m growing up. I can see myself understanding everything more clearly than I could in the depths of my teens. I can feel myself slipping away from the acute pangs of feelings I had as a younger teen. In some ways, I will always remain a teenager—I will always have joy from silly things (like an outfit that I love and that expresses who I am), I will always love girly, teenage things, and I will probably always be bored with most people. But I’m becoming an adult,

and there’s nothing I can do to stop it. I’m desperately trying to hold on the pain, the angst, and the heartbreak, but I understand those things aren’t the end of the world. Heartbreak hurts, but it doesn’t cause the earth to stop. Angst is actually kind of overrated. I don’t even watch John Hughes’ films as much as I used to. But in my heart, I’ll always have a soft spot for John Hughes and Molly Ringwald. They made me feel like someday, things were going to be okay. Sure enough, they’re getting there.

Suzanne PegueroManaging Editor

Life Goals: Molly Ringwald

Opinions April 28, 2014

6

Reality television has become more and more popular over the. These shows have had an impact on the American culture and leaves on the viewers. But is this a good thing?

It’s Monday night, and the casual American television viewer f lips the channel to VH1. What was once a channel dedicated to showing music videos of different genres of music has now become one of the major networks that air many reality TV shows. One of the shows that air on Monday night is “Love and Hip Hop.” The premise of this show follows the lives of various artist, personalities, dancers, and/or anyone who is involved in the hip hop genre. Many of these people were either well known once before or never relevant at all, but since its premiere on March 14, 2011 it has become one of the top rated shows on VH1 and spawn two spin offs {“Love and Hip Hop,” “Atlanta and Chrissy and Mr. Jones”} a year after it premiered. “Love and Hip Hop” is just one of the many reality TV shows that VH1 has been airing regularly since 2005. Many have criticized the network for putting so much focus on these reality shows instead of the music. However, VH1 seems to have cashed in on a growing genre.

The definition of reality television involves real life people in unscripted situations. In other words it’s normal p e o p l e g o i n g t h r o u g h their daily l i v e s . H o w e v e r there is also the forms of reality game s h o w s . This type of reality t e l e v i s i o n offers real life people compet ing in a show often always for a prize. One of the earliest form of this genre came in 1956 with “Queen for a Day.” The show premise involved female contestants being interviewed by the host of the show, Jack Bailey, and would need to explain their reason as to why they need to be queen for a day. They would need to describe the hardships they face in life, whether it would be financial issues or personal issues, and the audience would decide, through an applause meter, who should be the winner. The woman who gets the most applause would receive her prizes along with a red velvet robe and a crown. Many shows had precede and followed after “Queen for a Day” with the audience deciding the winner. Most recently is “American Idol” and “The Voice.”

The one reality show with a format that can relatable with today most popular reality shows is “An American Family.” It air in May 30 1971 and followed the daily life of the Loud family. Originally

the show was a simple documentary of an everyday nuclear family however the family separation, through the divorce of the parents Pat and Bill Loud, is what prompt it to be a reality show that aired through December 31. The parents’ divorce and the eldest son, Lance Loud,

revealing himself as a homosexual on television was both groundbreaking and controversial at the time the show had aired. Many critics has come to say that An American Family was the pioneer of modern reality television.

Despite other reality shows airing after “An American Family,” many people have said that it was MTV’s The Real World that started the reality

television boom. The show premise, which was inspired by “An American Family,” had eight strangers live together in a house and document there time together. The show covered many topics among the cast members such as politics, religion, and sexuality. Each season they would bring in new cast

members and use different cities as well. Since its debut in 1992 it has become a successes and had launched two spin offs as well. “The Real World” was also a launching pad for many of its former cast mates such as actress Jamie Chung, Republican Sean Duffy, and WWE superstar Mike Mizannin who goes under his wrestling name The Miz. The show still airs to this day, and is currently airing its twenty-ninth season. While the premise remains the same (several strangers living in a house together), for the first time in show history they’ve added another premise to the show by bringing

the cast mates ex-boyfriends/girlfriends to the show. Its main purpose, even admitted by the show’s producer, was to add tension and drama to the show. This added drama would help to boost the show’s ratings. Granted, there have been scandalous moments on the show,

but putting something as putting former lovers on the show seems out of character for a show dedicated to having strangers get know each other and deal with each

other’s viewpoints.The trend nowadays for reality

television is that drama sells more than actually portraying the everyday person. From the family drama of the Kardashians to the exploits surrounding

the Jersey Shore, cast mates producers now focus on what kind of trouble these people can get into. As the results people continue to watch and these shows get big ratings. More and more these reality stars are thrown into the spotlight and become celebrities overnight. So why do

people continue to watch them? Perhaps it is because they do things they don’t. The format of modern reality shows come from audience reactions and the ratings defiantly show that people will sit down and watch what the network has to air. It’s may seem as if the viewer’s share a responsibility for how the reality TV show are made but still the main fault falls on the network executives..

So what good can the reality television genre give to the masses? Perhaps it gives the viewers a glimpse into environments and into a group of people they may be able to relate to. The days before thereality television genre became huge the casual viewer were watching shows like “Full House,” “Step by Step,” and/or “Growing Pains.” Always portraying the everyday American family going

through their daily lives and solving their problems at the end of each episode. It’s the type of things you would love to see on TV. However, not everyone has that type of family. I don’t believe

eve r yone’s family is p e r f e c t . So when the casual viewers see f a m i l i e s like The Kardashians and The Osbournes, who had reality show that aired on MTV in March 2002 to March 2005, they are able to relate. Even with

the families living wealthy they are far from perfect; they say very cruel things to each other and do things you would never see on Full House. The drama offers more surreal moments and more humanity then any scripted show before them.

Reality television is as ambiguous and scandalous then any scripted show. However, it may be what we need. While the antics of Honey Boo Boo aren’t as charming to a smart TV viewer, that could be the point of the entire reality TV genre. Not one of these people on these shows are perfect. We see their f laws, and watch them stumble along the way. Reality TV gives people a glimpse into f lawed people with issues. Their dirty laundry is aired to the masses on a weekly basis and it continue to gain ratings, and as an audience we continue watch them. Because no one is perfect and no scripted show could really capture the deep issues the everyday American viewer go through like these ordinary people.

Darcy LouisContributing Writer

Maybe We Need Reality TV

Outlook Student Press

Outlook Student Press is published every other week except during exam periods and summer. It is an independent newspaper produced by students and paid for by advertising revenue and student activities fees. Submissions and articles become the property of Outlook Student Press. Outlook Student Press invites you to submit your opinions and ideas for publication. We strongly encourage letters to the editor.Content does not necessarily reflect the views of the Outlook editors or staff. Submissions may be edited for clarity, length, style, and taste. Outlook does not accept anonymous submissions.

On the web: Outlookpress.netFacebook.com/outlookpressEmail: Outlookstudentpress@gmail.comOffice: Student Union Room 3200 Phone: (845) 574-4389Fax: (845) 356-6261

Snail mail:Outlook Student PressRockland Community College145 College Road, Suffern, NY 10901

Professor Fuentes, Advisor

Marina Watts, Editor-in-Chief Suzanne Peguero, Managing Editor Julie DeVito, Production Manager

Anuj Chokshi, Photography EditorBenedict Tagle, Sports Editor

Contributors: Darcy Louis, Christo-pher Tavani

Staff: Adam Samuel, Valissa Hicks, Daniel Tagle, Matthew Tsuei

www.facebook.com/OutlookPress

www.twitter.com/OutlookPress

What has Outlook

Done For You?

AnujChokshi

DanielTagle

Suzanne Peguero

Benedict Tagle

One of the first groups I joined on campus was the school newspaper, Outlook Student Press. I didn’t realize at the time, that it would lead to changing, shaping, and molding me in different ways. When I first joined Outlook, I didn’t expect much. At the very least, I’d make a new friends and have a whole new experience. Because of budget restrictions, the high school I attended had stopped producing a school newspaper. Outlook would be my first opportunity to write articles in a non-academic setting. Like a child riding a bicycle without training wheels for the first time, I felt an exhilarating feeling sweep through me as I wrote for Outlook. The new experience of writing in a different environment was refreshing. As week after week went on, the more and more I enjoyed writing for the school paper. I really enjoyed writing for the sports section, and I found it easy to churn out articles every issue. I love the fact that I made the decision to join; one of the better choices I’ve made in the past few years.

When I first came to RCC, I was incredibly shy. Consequently, the idea of getting involved on campus was like a real life horror film to me. Nonetheless, Professor Hazelton stressed the importance of getting involved as it can help you greatly when you transfer, so I decided that transferring to a good school was more important than my feeling of awkwardness. I had heard about Outlook and was interested in getting involved, but for the first few times I tried to join, I walked up to the door and then promptly turned around and walked away. Finally, I walked into the office one day, and it was one of the best decisions I made in my life. Outlook has been such a great experience in the two years I‘ve been here. I have learned so much, and I made great friends along the way. I am so grateful that I got to be managing editor this year, and I am really going to miss Outlook.

As a freshman coming into college, I didn’t know many people and didn’t know what to do. There were so many opportunities shoved in front of me and waiting to be taken advantage of. Of all the things that were presented to me, Outlook won over my heart. In my high school, there wasn’t a student newspaper; all the information I would hear would come from the mouths of other students, the school website for school news, and the internet and TV for every other news. With Outlook, I loved that the writers can write about what interests them—students writing about what interests them. I’ve always had a soft spot for English class and writing, so I thought it would be a great fit. My experiences in Outlook this first year have been great and have greatly helped me become a better writer. Every issue where my work has been put into the paper, I see where there have been edits and see where I need improvement. I also have widened my areas of interests due to all the discussions about the article topics and information that are oftentimes discussed in meetings. Last, but not least, I have met great people, whose self-motivation and heart that they put into the paper have been something that I strive to replicate in all aspects of my life. To me, Outlook has not been just another student newspaper. Outlook has been a great way for me to grow more as a student and an individual.

I still remember my very first day at RCC and walking through the door of room 3200. I can’t believe it is already two years and now it is our time to say goodbye to Outlook. Outlook has become my second home for the last two years. Outlook has performed a major role in building my character and making me who I am today. As a photography editor, Outlook gave me a completely new platform to develop my skills in graphics and photography. It taught me friendship, business, character development and many more life ethics. In the last two years my fellow editors have become my new family and of course all those advertisement orders by Julie, Marina’s unbeatable love for Leo, Suzanne’s weird but cute flowery hairbands and mine and Benedict’s awesome quiet office session will be missed but it will always be there in one corner of my heart. I will be always thankful to my mentors Kristen, Gen, Amanda and Devon for teaching me everything and special thanks to our advisor Prof. Fuentes for always being there for us. And I am sure Outlook will achieve more and more under Daniel’s leadership. Good luck!

April 28, 2014 Opinions

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Farewell from the Editor-in-ChiefAfter 15

issues, two semesters, and a rather unhealthy amount of coffee, I am sad to say that my time at Outlook Student Press has come to a close. Hours spent writing, editing, and running the daily operations of Room 3200 have taught me so much about journalism, from the conception of an idea to its execution.

The Outlook office has become my home, and the editors, writers, and production team are family. The bonds that I have made are irreplaceable, as I have met many bright and talented people, enthusiastic about RCC’s newspaper. With our combined efforts, we have been able to put out an award-winning newspaper, feeling more accomplished each time it gets published.

Every issue felt like our first editing deadline, our first production week, our first time distributing the publication throughout the school. Not in naivety, but in a refreshing sense. There was never a dull moment throughout the weeks spend working on Outlook.

Nevertheless, the world of journalism

is fleeting. It never sleeps, and there is always something interesting going on to write about. When it comes to writing, the most important thing that I have learned is what you put in is what readers will get out of your words. Your enthusiasm should be reflected in the piece you write. If you do not care about what you have to say, why bother? If you find it interesting, so will your prospective readers. And that’s the key.

Outlook Student Press will always be with me, no matter where writing takes me. If I could go back and do everything again, I would do it all exactly the same way.

Marina Watts

Notice: Outlook Student Press apologizes for not giving Collette Fournier proper photo credit for the pictures in Volume 46 Issue 14 for the article

titled The “Second Wave” of Femminism

April 28, 2014 Satire

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Our departure from the 845 is sooner than we thought. Similar to a portion of the SUNY Rockland readers of “Outlook,” my time has come to transfer to a new school. However, I shall leave you faithful readers with some business advice, from the wisest businessman I know: Michael Scott, the former Regional Manager of the Scranton Dunder-Mifflin branch. No matter what career path you take, whether it is a stripper or a shrimper, a salesman

for cars or carbs, business is an important tool to understanding the world. After all, money makes the world go round. Here are some tidbits of wisdom you won’t pick up on in college.

On the work environment: “Nobody should have to go to work thinking, “Oh, this is the place that I might die today.” That’s what a hospital is for. An office is for not dying. An office is a place to live life to the fullest, to the max, to... An office is a place where dreams come true.”

What matters most: “What is the most important thing for a company? Is it the cash flow? Is it the inventory? Nuh-uh. It’s the people. The people.”

On dietary habits: “It’s never too early for ice cream.”

On Machiavellian politics: “Would I rather be feared or loved? Easy. Both. I want people to be afraid of how much they love me.”

On prioritizing: “Make friends first. Make sales second. Make love third. In no particular order.”

On going bankrupt: “OK well

sometimes, sometimes, it makes financial sense to lose money, right? Like for tax purposes?”

On crossing the line: “There is no such thing as an appropriate joke. That’s why it’s a joke.”

When categorizing business: “There are four kinds of business. Tourism, food service, railroads and sales. And hospitals slash manufacturing. And air travel.”

On keeping things personal: “Business is always personal. It’s the most personal

thing in the world.”On hotel staff members: “A concierge

is the Winnipeg equivalent of a geisha. This is a woman who has been trained in the fine art of fanciness and pleasure. And when you meet one it is intoxicating. Just what the doctor ordered.”

On the power of technology: “We can’t overestimate the value of computers. Yes, they are great for playing games and forwarding funny emails, but real business is done on paper”

On being in charge: “A boss is like a teacher. And I am like the cool teacher. Like Mr. Handell. Mr. Handell would hang out with us, and he would tell us awesome jokes. And he actually hooked up with one of the students, and then, like, 12 other kids came forward. It was in all the papers. Really ruined eighth grade for us.”

On common courtesy: “Did you know that in Morocco, it is common to exchange a small gift when meeting somebody for the first time? In Japan, you must always commit suicide to avoid embarrassment. In Italy, you must always wash your hands after going to the bathroom. This is considered to be polite.”

And the best of luck to every reader. Why are you still even in school? In the immortal words of Michael Scott, “You cannot learn from a book. Replace these pages with life lessons, and then you will have a book that’s worth it’s weight in gold. I know these are expensive, but the lesson is priceless.”

That’s What He Said: Michael Scott’s WisdomMarina Watts

Editor In Chief

Style & Entertainment April 28, 2014

In days where we believe film to be fact, it becomes difficult to distinguish what truly happened in a film based on someone’s life. Biopics are also a fantastic way to learn about someone. If represented accurately, you can be immersed in their world and experience their time through the silver screen. These select biopics are some of my favorites, where they reflect actual events in an effective way, making fine efforts to minimize anachronisms, yet still humor their audiences.

“The Aviator” (2004). Or, as I like to call it, one of the Oscars

that got away. Oh, Leo. Lenoardo DiCaprio stars in this film as Howard Hughes, movie mogul and aviation master. He is successful, specific and always gets his job done. The film spans over 20 years of his life, as OCD invades his career and relationships with some of Hollywood’s finest (Ava Gardner, Katherine Hepburn, just to name a few). The bright costumes, music and layers of WTF will haunt audiences and make them want to order their own copy off Amazon.

“Lincoln” (2012). So brilliant that you forget that it’s

really Daniel Day-Lewis, “Lincoln” follows the president during the Civil War. One of my favorite biopics, Spielberg thoroughly researched Lincoln’s life and even included some personal assets of the president in the film. A stellar cast encompasses the screen, including Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Tommy Lee Jones. The essence of difficulty is definitely there, as Congress struggles to

pass the vote to free all the slaves in the Confederate states. Spoiler alert: Lincoln still gets shot.

“My Week With Marilyn” (2011). Michelle Williams takes on the titular

role, and audiences get a snippet of her life. Based on a memoir of the same name, Colin Clark (Eddie Redmayne) becomes an assistant onset while Monroe and Sir Lawrence Olivier (Kenneth Branagh) are in the process of shooting “The Prince and the Showgirl.” At the time, she was married to playwright Arthur Miller. The film documents so candidly, yet so perfectly, what it was like to be Marilyn. Her sex appeal and vulnerability shine, and we see the dazed and confused side of the bombshell cameras seldom saw before her sudden death. No wonder why Williams and Branagh were both nominated Oscars for their performances.

“Dallas Buyers Club” (2013). This film garnered Matthew

McConaughey an Oscar, and after losing 47 pounds, it was deserving for such commitment. Due to a lack of hygiene and awareness about STDs, Donald Woodroof (McConaughey) is diagnosed with HIV. In pursuit of a cure, he illegally smuggles drugs into the US. With the help of a transgender woman, Rayon (Jared Leto), the two create the Dallas Buyers Club. Woodroof’s efforts to help others in his position and find a cure (even if illegal and risky) were heroic.

“Wolf of Wall Street” (2013). The rambunctious world of Jordan

Belfort (Leonardo DiCaprio) is documented in this film. Based on the memoir of the same name, viewers are taken on a roller coaster of drugs, sex, and piles of cash. Belfort’s penny stocks scheme makes him millions instantly. Though much of his activity is legal, all are overcome with envy of his excessive lifestyle. DiCaprio as the unreliable narrator is dynamic, and we cannot help but wonder to what degree did everything happen, as he was doing enough drugs “to sedate Manhattan.” The antiheroic Belfort may not be the best narrator, but regardless, the film is a wild romp through a world of endless wealth.

“Amadeus” (1984). An adaptation from the play of the

same name, the story of musical prodigy Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is told through the bitter eyes of Antonio Salieri (F. Murray Abraham). Tom Hulce stars as the composer, as he impressed the Austrian court with his talent. Salieri lets jealousy consume him, and goes to great measures to extinguish him from the royal court of Vienna. You won’t soon forget the elaborate film, from the costumes to the set design and music, or course. Or, the eight Oscars, including Best Picture. And even if you do, Mozart’s haunting laugh will remind you soon enough.

“Walk the Line” (2005). As though Joaquin Phoenix wasn’t

talented enough already, he can sing too! He stars in the film about Johnny Cash’s rise to fame. From humble beginnings on a farm in Kansas to recording with big names like Elvis, Phoenix wows audiences with his incredible voice! Co-stars include Reese witherspoon as June Carter and Ginnifer Goodwin as Vivian Cash. Phoenix received an Oscar nod for this role, and Witherspoon

took home the Best Actress award.“La Vie en Rose” (2007).

Even if you dropped out of your third period French class in the tenth grade, don’t let the language barrier deter you from checking out this film. “La Vie en Rose” follows the life of Edith Piaf, portrayed by Marion Cotillard. Though the film doesn’t take place in chronological order, its flashback nature effectively displays the tumultuous nature of her rise to fame. Perhaps Piaf’s iconic song, the haunting “Non, je ne regrette rien” is reflective of her life. Loss, love and music encompass the film that scored Cotillard an Oscar for her performance.

“Beyond the Sea” (2004). Kevin Spacey can sing! Well! This film

is about Bobby Darin, the man whose voice immortalizes “Beyond the Sea.” A true rags-to-riches story, Darin had no father and learned about the world of entertainment from his mom. The film focuses on his relationship with the beautiful Sandra Dee (not the gal from “Grease”; sorry to disappoint; portrayed by Kate Bosworth). As a singer, dancer, and actor, he balanced his career with his health, marriage and family life, proving it to be difficult at times. This biopic is especially different. Through the employment of a younger Bobby Darin accompanying him onscreen (William Ullrich), the older version gets a sense of perspective to what happened to him.

Marina WattsEditor In Chief

Biographies Made Easy

10

April 28, 2014 Style & Entertainment

“Scrubs” was my favorite show for so long that I can now practically recite entire episodes. The show brought hilarious moments with a star studded cast that could have us rolling on the floor laughing

one moment, then the next have us choked up and crying. The star of the show was the affable Zach Braff, a brilliant young actor who made the show the icon it is today

with his character John Dorian, or JD for short. “Scrubs” ended a few years ago now, and Braff left mainstream television but is still actively working on his own projects. Let’stake a look at what Braff has been up to these past few years.

After “Scrubs” ended in 2010, Braff appeared in a few television shows, only appearing here and there as a guest star

in shows like “Cougar Town” and “The Exes.” During his time away from the spotlight, Braff has been putting time and effort into creating his own movie “Wish I Was Here,” his first movie in a while since “Garden State” in 2004. Funded by a Kickstarter fundraiser, Braff raised the $2million he needed in only three days. By the time the fundraiser had ended, he had over $3 million raised. “Wish I Was Here” has a strongcast consisting of Kate Hudson, Jim Parsons, Donald Faison and more. Together with a friend, Braff wrote the script. Braff served as both director and producer. Filming took only 25 days and the film is to be released in July this year. The upcoming release has been very anticipated by fans and you can look out for that movie over the summer.

“Wish I Was Here” may be Braff’s main focus at the moment, but he has announced his desire to move away from acting in favor of creating and producing.

Though he still plans on acting, Braff will be focusing more on his own projects. It is unknown at the moment what Braff plans to do in the future after the release of “Wish I Was Here,” but his actions suggest he’ll continue to produce, making more individual movies. Braff displayed his talent in film making in “Garden State,”

and now that he more fans’ attention, he may be at the peak of his popularity. With “Scrubs” being arguably his most iconic performance, it will be interesting how he moves forward when the public might see him as type cast as JD. Regardless, the future is bright for Braff.

What Ever Happened To?Adam Samuel

Staff Writer

11

12

Science & Health April 28, 2014

Morning Mayhem Protein Power Smoothie (Makes 2 servings)

Ingredients: 1 cup frozen raspberries1 cup frozen blueberries

1 ripe b a n a n a ( m e d i u m size)

1 cup p l a i n , unsweetened Greek yogurt

2 peeled oranges

1 scoop vanilla protein powder2 tbsp. ground flax seed1 tbsp. almond butter4 oz. water

Directions: Combine all ingredients and blend.

Nutritional Facts: Calories- 440; Protein- 31g; Fat- 9g; Carbs- 64g

Valissa HicksStaff Writer

Italian Turkey Burger (Makes 4 servings)

Ingredients: 1 lb. lean ground turkey¾ cup onion, chopped1 tbsp. minced garlic1 tbsp. and 1 tsp. Italian

seasoning¼ tsp. sea salt

Direction: Mix together all

ingredients in a large mixing bowl by hand and form into 4 equal size patties. In a skillet or grill, cook burgers thoroughly. Tip: Try on Ezekiel buns or Ezekiel English muffins. You can also cut up the turkey burger and top off a salad. Nutritional Facts: Calories- 220; Protein- 19g; Carbs- 0g; Fat- 17g

Valissa HicksStaff Writer

Italian Turkey Burger

Power Smoothie

1�

April 28, 2014 Science & Health

Clean Pizza (Makes 8 servings)

Ingredients: 1 lb. ground chicken breastItalian seasoning-Basil-Garlic Powder-2 egg whites-½ cup oats-1 cup tomato/spaghetti sauce

(organic or homemade)-1 cup low-fate cottage cheese

*Your choice of clean toppings (spinach, red bell peppers, cucumber, onions, etc.)

Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Mix

the “crust” (ground chicken, Italian seasoning, basil, garlic powder, egg whites and oats) by hand. Flatten the “crust” on a pizza stone or in a 9x13 pan. Bake the “crust” for 20 minutes. Take out the “crust” and add tomato/spaghetti sauce and spread evenly. Add the cottage cheese on top of the sauce and spread evenly. Add your choice of

toppings. Place the pizza back in the oven for 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted. Tip: Mix all the

spices in a separate bowl and taste test it until you find your desired flavor combo. For Gluten Free Version use

gluten-free rolled oats. Nutritional Facts: Calories- 144; Carbs- 6g; Fat- 5g, Protein- 17g

Valissa HicksStaff Writer

Clean Pizza

Cookie Dough (Makes 15 pieces; one serving is 4 pieces)

Ingredients: ½ cup quick cooking oats¼ cup natural peanut butter2 tsp. pure vanilla extract2 squares of dark chocolate1 tbsp. honey¼ cup egg whites1 tbsp. unsweetened vanilla almond

milk

Directions: Add all ingredients in a blender.

Place wax paper on a plate and add cookie dough. Put in the freezer for at least an hour (preferably 2 hours). Tip: You can add protein powder or more almond milk, if needed. Nutritional Facts(per piece): Calories- 45; Carbs- 3.5g; Fat- 3g; Protein- 2g; Sugar- 1.5g

Valissa HicksStaff Writer

Cookie Dough

On April 1, 2014, students of Rockland Community College, members of the TriBeta Biological Honors Society, presented research at the NY State Capital Building in Albany for the Innovative Exploration Forum sponsored by SUNY and CUNY colleges. The RCC students have been working on this research project over a period of two semesters.

This was a major accomplishment for RCC, as it was the first time undergraduate biological research had ever been presented from RCC students. Christopher J. Tavani, Theresa Padget, and Esau Cruz spoke with legislative faculty of New York, as well as SUNY Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher. Their research was titled “Sensitivity of Dugesia Tigrina Photoreceptors to Ultraviolet Light.” This research consisted of testing the effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays on photoreceptors of a small organism that seeks to avoid light. The researchers proceeded to Mount Saint Vincent on April 26 to present their research again at the Beta Beta Beta District NE-1 Convention.

We wish them the best of luck in their endeavors and are honored that SUNY Rockland is recognized at such a prestigious event.

Christopher TavaniContributing Writer

TriBeta Speaks at AlbanyScience & Health April 28, 2014

14

Christopher J. Tavani (left) Theresa Padget (middle) and Esau Cruz (right) with their poster outlining their conclusions

The science lecture series communicates to students the research findings in the fields of biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. It allows SUNY Rockland students an opportunity to obtain knowledge beyond the confines of a classroom setting regarding specific topics of science. Students are even able to talk to lecture speakers about internship opportunities. These lectures are usually held during common hour (12:30-1:30), but may occasionally be moved to correspond with the time of outside lectures. You may also want to keep a look out for school emails about future lectures that will take place, because they are worth checking out.

There were many interesting lectures thi semester, such as “The Birth and Death of the Solar System” by Keith Murdock on April 1 in Academic 1, Room 1106. This lecture answers questions about how the solar system was created, if the Earth gave birth to the moon, and why we have four seasons. Flyers and emails have been distributed with more information about the lecture along with a biography about the speaker.

For those curious about lectures that have passed, I personally found the lecture “Engine Oil-The Nutrient-Filled Life Blood of Your Vehicle” to be very informative. Dr. Mary Dery provided valuable information regarding how to make more insightful decisions about the motor oil used in our cars. She explained

the significance of several properties of motor oil, such as the lubricant additives used and how they affect different engines. She also stressed when purchasing oil it’s important to know if the oil contains

viscosity modifiers, viscosity meaning the resistance to flow. The best engine oils have a viscosity that is neither so high (thick) that it will barely flow nor so low (thin) that it will slip through your engine like water.

She also spoke about looking out for anti-wear additives that minimize

damage due to metal-on-metal surface contact, along with detergent additives, which are chemicals that hold particles in the oil so they don’t deposit on engine parts and cause overheating. Dispersant

additives work in a similar way by dissipating oil sludge that can block the flow, which can result in increased wear, heat build up, and eventually engine failure. Higher quality engine oils contain corrosion and rust inhibitors which slow down the oxidation of metal inside an engine, increasing its overall lifespan.

Antioxidants in the oil also help to inhibit the oxidation process by preventing the oil from getting too thick over time. Additives such as these all work together to keep the engine running at peak performance over its lifespan. Some additional advice that she gave for choosing the best motor oil was to first read the vehicle owner’s manual as it often contains information specific to your car’s engine.

Finally, she emphasized that we should change our motor oil every 3,000-5,000 miles to extract maximum lifespan from a car engine, which is very important for students at a commuter college to keep in mind. Dr. Mary Dery is currently leading research in rheology modifiers and antioxidants for automotive and heavy duty diesel lubricant applications. For

additional information about lectures, please contact Dr. A. Butler (845) 574-4094; abutler3@sunyrockland.edu or Dr. J. Decker (845) 574-4220; jdecker@sunyrockland.edu.

Matthew TseuiStaff Writer

Science Lectures Come To RCC

April 28, 2014 Technology

15

The idea of “fantasy” is one that has transcended all of recorded history. From the early days of scribbling on cave walls, to printed books, and to modern day TV and movies, the desire to escape the confines of our reality is one that has been with us since the dawn of humanity. Whether it’s magical and deep like Harry Potter or epic and unreal like Star Wars, humans have shown the ability to conjure up worlds far more interesting than our own. These worlds have always been stories, however; something we can read about or watch, but not places we can actually visit and take part in. The idea of being able to experience another reality (sometimes vastly different than our own) is one with universal appeal.

Recently, this escapism led to the birth of video games towards the end of the 20th century. Video games are a form of entertainment that bring interactivity with digital video content. As the 90s began, 3D worlds emerged; ones with a sense of space and depth like our own. Upon seeing this, many wondered if we would be able to expand these little windows beyond the television and somehow step into these simplistic but interesting new worlds. During the mid 90s, there was significant research and development poured into what was coined “virtual reality” (VR for short) with the goal of utilizing technology to allow us to feel as if we had entered another world. It had captured the public’s imagination and was hyped up to be the next generation of entertainment. Unfortunately, tech at that time just wasn’t advanced enough to overcome many of the significant challenges that VR brings along, and it failed as a consumer technology. We didn’t have the computing power, we didn’t have the displays, and we didn’t have the input solutions.

The military still saw the potential of VR for training simulations and continued to utilize and advance the tech, and while they eventually developed VR into something that actually does create a satisfying and convincing experience, it was far too expensive and complex to ever sell to the public. Meanwhile, the rest of the world fell back to established technology that was far easier to develop, such as traditional monitors and televisions. Computing power grew exponentially as the 2000’s rolled in, allowing the creation of more complex and detailed virtual game worlds. Nonetheless, these worlds were constrained to viewing on flat 2D monitors and televisions. VR was something the public assumed was impossible; something reserved for sci-fi stories. In 2012, however, this changed when a 19 year old named Palmer Luckey whipped up a strange device in his garage that would go on to capture the imagination of the entire entertainment industry. This device is known as the Oculus Rift.

Palmer Luckey always had a fascination with the idea of virtual reality. He saw the amazing implications of VR in movies such

as The Matrix and wondered why VR wasn’t something that was already in public use. Having spent years collecting old VR head mounted displays, he well understood that technology in the past just wasn’t capable of delivering a good VR experience. But he saw that we were in a different age; one with far more advanced technology that could possibly allow for virtual reality.

Wanting to prove it, Palmer built a proof of concept device held together with duct tape. The device essentially consisted of a small high resolution display pulled from a smart-phone and a pair of optics pulled out of some binoculars. Combine that with a cheap motion tracking unit (also from smartphones) and you end up with a device that can display s t e r e o s c o p i c 3D visuals in sync with the movement of your head. When the device is strapped over your eyes, your entire field of vision is immersed in the content on the screen. This device provides the critical visual component of virtual reality, when this device is worn it truly looks as if you are somewhere else.

W h i l e Palmer didn’t think much of it (as it was just a hobby for him)he posted pictures of his prototype on a small forum and to his surprise he was contacted by gaming legend John Carmack, the man responsible for the creation of online gaming and modern 3D graphics. Wanting to check it out for himself, Palmer shipped his one and only prototype to John, who was so impressed by the experience that he brought it to the world’s largest media convention, E3, where it caught the attention of everybody. Seeing the potential of the device, Palmer put up a Kickstarter campaign asking for $250,000 to send out a few kits to enthusiasts to play around with. When he

ended up raising $2.4 million; he realized this was much larger than he imagined. Before Palmer knew it, he was the founder of Oculus VR, a start-up focused on the creation of a consumer model of the device now known as the Oculus Rift. Their first order of business was to ship out a developer kit of the Rift, to allow game developers and early adopters to begin making virtual

reality content. While this developer kit was incredibly simplistic compared to what the consumer device would have to be, it provided the basic essentials to allow users to get a feel for what good virtual reality is like. Indeed, Palmer achieved his original goal in proving that we now have the technology to deliver convincing VR.

Something VR delivers that no other medium can is something known as “presence,” which is the feeling that you truly are somewhere else, as the scale of the world it presents to you can potentially feel as real (or unrealistically real) as our own. Presence is something hard to achieve as our brains are very good at picking out flaws, if the image ever so much as stutters or fails to track your head movement, the sensation is totally lost. For the past year, Oculus VR has been researching around what the Oculus Rift requires to

successfully deliver a sense of presence to a wide range of people. It must be stressed how convincing of an experience VR can deliver, while we are far from being able to slip on the Oculus Rift and trick our conscious mind that the virtual world is real, our subconscious mind is much easier to trick. Standing over a ledge in VR for instance, while our conscious mind knows

it’s all virtual and we simply have a screen strapped to our face, we still feel a sense of terror when pushed over the edge as such sensations are felt at a level below consciousness. At the press of a button, it can look as if we’re flying a plane, exploring the ocean, or standing on the moon. We are only beginning to scratch the surface in regards to the implications of VR, but it has become clear that it’s use will go far beyond that of gaming. In fact, the potential for VR to become a major component of everyday life is so clear that after

just one day of demoing the Oculus Rift, Mark Zuckerberg was so blown away that it prompted him to make a $2 Billion acquisition of Oculus VR in March 2014. While many were confused by this at first, Facebook made it clear that in these early stages they will simply be providing funding to Oculus, ensuring that VR will have the resources required to be fully realized within the next five years. Oculus VR will be acting as an independent subsidiary to Facebook, developing and refining the Oculus Rift (along with other tech) into a product that can provide the truly immersing experience the mainstream consumer expects. Once the tech has further evolved, Facebook plans to use VR as their next major computing platform, after the current mobile revolution begins to slow down. They plan to utilize the Rift to build out what is known as the “metaverse,” a world that exists solely in digital form over the Internet. Examples they provided were virtual shopping malls that one can visit, virtual cinemas to watch exclusive movies, and virtual chat lounges where you can talk to your friends face to face even if they are seven time zones away. Mark also spoke of live experiences such as being able to buy tickets online and watch a sports game live or drop in on a college course, right from your desk or living room with the Rift.

Up until now, it wasn’t clear if VR devices such as the Oculus Rift were going to ever be able to break past their reputation as neat but niche gaming peripherals. With Facebook making such a large bet on virtual reality however, the future has been cemented and it’s now clear that VR is set to become the next major computing platform, and will soon become a part of our everyday life. While no release date for the first consumer version of the Oculus Rift has been announced, Palmer Luckey has repeatedly said that it’s in the final stages and a release is expected in “a matter of months, not years.” Many expect an announcement to come at the E3 2014 expo in June, perhaps for a Holiday 2014 release. Whenever the date, one thing is certain, the dream of a truly convincing virtual reality is about to become, well, a real reality.

Matthew TseuiStaff Writer

Virtual Reality Is For Real

April 28, 2014 Technology

In this day and age, most-if not all- data and information is stored online or in computers. This data and information does not go into some magical place; they

are stored and go into storage devices. Usually, data is stored in hard drives. These hard drives are part of the insides of a computer, but there are portable ways in which data can be put away and

then retrieved at a later time and place. It wasn’t too long ago that floppy disks and CDs were used for storing files. Today, it is not uncommon to see USB drives and portable external hard drives being used. That being said, these portable devices have only been able to hold 2-64 gigabytes of information, with up to a 500 gigabytes,

even one terabyte of capacity on external hard drives. New technologies, however, have helped in advancing our growing need of more space.

An example of new technologies is

Sandisk’s MicroSD card that holds 128 GB of memory. This world’s first 128 GB MicroSD card is proof that maybe one day, we can hold libraries of music, video, and text on the tip of our fingers. MicroSD cards are usually the size of memory card that mobile phones support. However, our mobile phones are usually found in varieties of two, four, eight, 16, and at the very most, 32 GB. With Sandisk’s newest memory card, we can only hope that phone companies push the limits on their phones and maybe bring consumers new phones that hold a lot more memory than what is being offered today.

For people who shoot 4K video, store a lot of other high definition video, music, games, or do any other service that requires a huge amount of memory storage, Seagate has come to the rescue by unveiling their new hard drive that holds 6 TB.

Not one, not two, but six whole terabytes. With this new hard drive, many rejoice, as it has a speed of 7,200 rpm, 128 mb cache, and encryption.

It is a little hard not to be in awe of all

the new technologies being developed to further this digital age. It was not very long ago that I had to take my files on the computer and upload them to a floppy disk, and then transfer those files to CD, where I would then bring to school to do projects. These devices could also only store maybe 500 mb. Now, we have 128 GB

MicroSD cards the size of a finger nail and 6 TB hard drives in our computers. These technologies can hopefully bring more good things in the future and preserve our history for future generations.

The Digital Storage Dream Come True

1�

Daniel TagleStaff Writer

While I’ve written about the “virtual r e a l i t y ” , there is a n o t h e r r e a l i t y a l t e r i n g t e ch nolog y that is set to launch in the near future, known as “augmented reality” or AR for short. As you may glean from the name, this is a term given to devices that augment the reality we already inhabit. An AR device generally consists of glasses worn over the user’s eyes that have integrated transparent displays, allowing the user to see information presented on the display while simultaneously viewing the world around them.

At this point in time, all available AR devices (of which there are few) simply use these screens to present information on top of the user’s view, not mixing in with the reality around them. In the future, these devices will be much more tightly integrated with the environment the user sees, mixing the digital information with the real world as if it was a natural piece of reality. An example of this would be

a virtual arrow appearing in front of the user as they navigate using Google Maps.

Another example would be information such as ratings, hours, and pricing appearing next to a restaurant when you look in it’s direction. As of 2014, the only AR device available to the general consumer is the Google Glass eyewear. Google Glass uses a holographic transparent prism that is mounted to the right side of the device, displaying information such as phone notifications and Google content up in the corner of the user’s vision. The user simply glances up into the corner of their eye and can check/respond to texts, begin recording video, look up info on Google, video call their friends, among many other things. In the future, these devices

will be built right into the lens of glasses so you can’t tell they’re there, and further down the line they will be built right into

contact lenses.While there is no debating

the utility of these devices, there are significant technical hurdles to overcome before they make their way into mainstream use, if they ever do. Battery is by far the biggest of them, powering a projected image for the entire duration of when the user would be wearing the glasses requires a battery larger than anything we can fit into a normal frame. Moving to contact lens format only exacerbates this problem, as there really is nowhere to put a battery on your eye.

User Interface is the

next major challenge, as designers of AR devices have to design a UI that is both powerful enough to present the information a user would want from such a device, while simultaneously keeping it clean and simple enough that it doesn’t clutter up the user’s vision. If the battery life isn’t long enough, if the glasses aren’t sleek enough, and if the UI is either too difficult to navigate or clutters up the user’s view too much, then these devices will never sell. While these are all hard problems to solve, all major tech companies from Google to Microsoft to Apple are said to be working on them. While (rather ironically) virtual reality is the easier format and will first enter mainstream use in 2015, augmented reality need more technological development and user testing before it is ready to be used by the average Joe.

Many expect that by 2020 we will have AR devices that overcome the challenges presented above.

Matthew TseuiStaff Writer

Not-So-Science Fiction: Augmented Reality

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April 28, 2014 Sports

Following a 2013 campaign that saw the Hawks lose their title as Mid Hudson Conference champions, the Men’s Golf team looks to regain their spot at the top of the standings this spring. Losing two key contributors in Mike Cavanaugh and Francis Kelly, the team needed to find solid replacements for them. With freshmen Daniel Tagle and Emilio Ruiz, it looks as if the team has found two golfers who are more than able to replace the contribution of Cavanaugh and Kelly.

Halfway through this year’s season, the team has had an up-and-down experience so far. Having won a tournament, the team has shown they are more than capable of running the table in the conference. Because of conflicting class schedules, it has been hard to get the team running in full strength. The two freshmen, in addition to returning Hawks Brian McGarvey, Jimmy McEntee, and Benedict Tagle, have only played one tournament as a full team. McGarvey was an All-Conference player last spring, and Tagle was an All-Conference and All-Region player. Incidentally, they won the tournament with a comfortable margin.

The team started off its season as host at Spook Rock Golf Course, down

the road from campus. With inclement weather, the result was shortened to nine holes, but the margin between the Hawks and the other conference teams was undeniable. Having won that tournament, the team hoped to carry their momentum to the following events on the schedule. In the next few events of the season, the Hawks were not able to boast a full team, carrying only three players in the tournament. With the high placing individual performances of the players who were present at the time, the team could easily have won those tournaments had the team been carrying a fourth player.

However the season may go, the most important event occurs at the final tournament of the season. As the team’s coach, Tom Craffey likes to say, “It’s all about the Regionals.” This year, the Hawks are hosting the Region XV tournaments once again at nearby Phillip J. Rotella golf course. The men’s golf team has had a history of

placing well at the tournament. In years past, the Hawks have sent whole teams

to the national tournament. The Men’s Golf team has also sent numerous individual qualifiers to the national NJCAA tournament, most recently Benedict Tagle last year.

This year, the Hawks look to have a shot at qualifying as a team to play in the national tournament in northwestern New York, with five solid players. Last year’s top two teams, Suffolk Community College and Nassau Community College also boast strong teams, and will be the top competitors to send their teams to Buffalo. If the team doesn’t make it, it is still possible players from the Hawks qualify. The two Tagle brothers, McGarvey, Ruiz, and McEntee all have a chance of qualifying; if the team has four individual qualifiers, the entire team will be allowed to travel to Buffalo to compete with teams from across the country. With the way this year’s talent stacks up, it

wouldn’t be surprising if this happens.

Hawks Look for Strong Push in 2nd Half of Season

The stage was set. One the golf world’s most historic and iconic tournament was going to test the world’s best golfers once again. The Masters is played at Augusta National every year, and, only the toughest make it through to the final round on Sunday.

There are numerous of ways that a golfer can qualify to play in the Masters. All Masters champions get lifetime invitations, the champions for the other three Major tournaments (U.S. Open, British Open, and PGA Championship), winners of the Players Championship, current U.S., British, Asia-Pacific Amateurs champions, and current U.S. Mid-Amateur and U.S. Public Links Amateur champions all get invitations. If a golfer did not win in the past year or the year prior, one could still play if they placed in the top 12 players in last year’s Masters, or top 4 in last year’s U.S. or British Opens or the PGA Championship (including ties). If a golfer has not achieved that, then there are few choices left, one being in the top 50 in the Official World Golf Rankings. In other words, the

field at this year’s and every other year’s Masters Tournament is and has been tough—the best of the best come to play for the coveted green jacket.

This year’s Masters drew the likes

of 2013 Masters Champion Adam Scott looking to recapture the glory, Jordan Spieth, the Masters rookie who has been playing very well and could possibly

join the ranks of Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy in the future, and veterans such as Jason Day, Luke Donald, Bubba Watson, and Justin Rose looking to put another win under their belts. However,

the big news coming into the week was Woods’ withdrawal from the tournament. Struggling to put up good rounds in the weeks prior with an injury, Tiger

withdrew from the tournament, and it was no surprise to see Tiger’s influence on the game reflected in the ratings which was the worst since 1957.

Coming into the week, players such as Day, Scott, and McIlroy attracted much attention. Aussie Jason Day, the number four ranked golfer in the world heading into the week was one of the favorites as he seems to always put up a solid and consistent effort in majors and is playing well in weeks prior. Fellow Aussie and world number two ranked golfer Scott, the reigning 2013 Masters Champion went into the week looking defend his championship backed with solid performances all year round. McIlroy, former number one golfer in the world, and ranked ninth going into the week, on the other hand, was hoping to capture another major victory to solidify his destiny of filling Tiger’s shoes.

After four days of grueling golf, Augusta once again paved way to a deserving golfer who withstood the tests that fell before him, and Bubba Watson, the long-hitting leftie took home the $1.6 million prize money and green jacket. This was Bubba’s second green jacket and the win marks him as a strong force in tournaments to come.

Daniel TagleStaff Writer

Benedict TagleSports Editor

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Sports April 28, 2014

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2014 SCHEDULE

Italics = Interleague Game

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ALL GAMES ARE NEW YORK TIME. GAME TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. SCHEDULE INFORMATION AS OF 3/11/14.VISIT METS.COM FOR THE LATEST GAME, PROMOTION AND THEME DATE SCHEDULES.

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Schedules from: Rockland Boulders, New York Mets and New York Yankees Websites