october 7, 2011
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1THECLOCK October 7, 2011
The Clock October 7, 2011• Vol. 57, Issue 4 •
The official independent, student-run publication of Plymouth State University since 1952
www.theclockonline.comKnow The Times, Read The Clock
Alexander CabeceirasStaff Writer
Rachael FerrantiNews Editor
CLOCK PHOTO / ADAM DI FILIPPE
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Real Fair TradeFirst Sidore Lecture of the Year features Sarah Bigney of MFTC
There’s No Protest Here
On Tues., Oct. 4, Plymouth State Univer-sity held its first Sidore Lecture of the school year. This year’s Sidore Lecture Series explores the growing economic gap between our nation’s wealthy and poor, which is currently an unprec-edented difference. The Series’ first speaker was Sarah Bigney, an organizer for the Maine Fair Trade Campaign (MFTC).
A Maine native, Bigney traveled to Nicara-gua, Honduras, Mexico, and other countries in Central and South America to study and get a better understanding of their ill economic envi-ronments. There, she saw some of the harshest effects of globalization on local industries.
“It never set well with me that we were just putting a band-aid on the situation,” said Bigney, “and it led me to continuously ask why things were the way they were.” When Bigney brought these questions back home, she real-ized that the same trends were plaguing her own family, community, and country.
Bigney’s lecture, “Who’s Winning, Who’s Losing, and Who’s Writing the Rules?” focused on what she referred to as “the struggle for justice in the global economy.” Bigney’s central argument concentrated on the roles of free trade agreements like NAFTA, CAFTA, and the World Trade Organization, and the “com-
pletely undemocratic processes” they use to regulate international trade.
Bigney referred to such policies as “weapons of economic mass destruction.” Essentially, the design of free trade policies like NAFTA and CAFTA allow large corporations an incredible amount of leverage over their profit markets. Under these agreements, for example, it is pos-sible for a large corporation to sue a state or nation if it passes a law that somehow hinders that corporation’s profit potential.
This particular caveat and other similar and ethically bereft loopholes that make up the “rules” of corporate globalization are among the leading causes behind the proliferation and growth of the global wealth gap. These rules give large corporations the luxury of shopping around, so to speak, for the cheapest manufacturers and nations with the loosest environmental laws.
As a result, honest work is being stripped of honest, hard workers. Not just in Nicaragua, or Mexico, or China, but here, too. In New England. In Bangor, Maine. In Plymouth.
“Towns have completely died with such a large loss of manufacturing,” said Bigney. “Manufacturing jobs have been shipped to countries that don’t have strict laws. We’ve given away rights to foreign investors that local businesses do not have.”
How, then, are all the exploited workers of
The New York Times on Sat., Oct. 1, 2011 at 6:59 PM, posted an article online by Colin Moynihan titled "Protesters Arrested on Brook-lyn Bridge." The article began as follows: "After allowing them onto the bridge, the police cut off and arrested dozens of Occupy Wall Street demonstrators."
Twenty minutes later, the article was updated with an added author, new text, and a different title. The title of the changed article passively read, “Hundreds arrested on Brooklyn Bridge.” The updated posting read as follows; “In a tense showdown over the East River, police arrested hundreds of Occupy Wall Street demonstrators after they marched onto the bridge’s Brooklyn-bound roadway.”
For unknown reasons The New York Times felt it necessary to take out the word "protest-ers" from the title and add that the scene on the Brooklyn Bridge was a "tense showdown," while negating the facts of the prior article.
Walking through Zuccotti Park there are signs, chants, dissenters, camp outs, and heated discussions on reform. If the eclectic groups of people in Zuccotti Park aren’t protesters, as the New York Times reported, they sure look like protesters. Perhaps a uniform with the word “protester” should now be required for public demonstration to clear up any future confusion.
Dwyane Henry, 25, a videographer explained how local news has been handling the protests. "When we went to protest on the bridge the
the world to combat these injustices that have, as Bigney said, “destroyed the backbone of states’ economies?” Coalitions like the MFTC are part of a nationwide grassroots movement
cops let us on, there were no fences or any guys yelling at us to stop," he explains while he puts the finishing touches on a communal protest sign. "Then once on the center of the bridge they corralled us in a circle and then demanded we leave... but the news on NY1 just showed some cop telling us to leave and then the chaotic arrest."
The police ended up arresting 700 protesters on the Brooklyn Bridge that day, and Dwyane was one of them. The incident breaks a 1970s record for the most arrested at once in New York City.
Dwayne, like many protesters, feels the media does not give their cause enough valid-ity. "We are going up against massive corporate powers," Dwyane continued, "and the majority of mainstream news media are massive corpo-rate powers! It's only natural we don›t get fair recognition."
The Occupy Wall Street group is going up against the top 10% of wealth holders in the nation, so of course, that top 10% who con-trols media (which is now down to five major corporations) are threatened by the group's popularity.
On Sun., Oct. 2, a retired economic advisor for New York Times and author Jeff Madrick, spoke to the Occupy Wall Street group during a general assembly. Madrick denounced his old newspaper, citing that 1% of America owns 20% of all wealth, and the top owners of major news corporations are in that 1%.
The media representation has been poor.
Instead of representing the protesters as active American citizens who are utilizing their free democratic society in order to bring about change, they are demonizing the protesters as unorganized and lacking a cohesive goal. Is this fair? When covering Egypt, Tunisia, and Libya, the media made it clear: these were revolu-tions. Yet in the west when civil unrest occurs
it becomes, as David Cameron so starkly put it, "thuggery."
Subtle media tricks to marginalize the group’s progress may have worked up until this point, but with offshoots of the campaign springing up in Boston, Chicago, and Los Angeles, the group shows no signs of slowing down.
that work to rebuild our economy so that it is just and democratic.
SIDORE LECTURE, COnT. On PagE 2
Black #22 THECLOCKOctober 7, 2011
Russell ManciniFor the Clock
May I Speak?
Do you have Questions about Residential Life or Dining Services?
SIDORE LECTURE, COnTInUED fROm pagE 1
CLOCK PHOTO / ADAM DI FILIPPE
CLOCK PHOTO / KATIE BENTON
The MFTC and other similarly driven coalitions work together to promote truly fair economic conditions in an ever-globalizing economy. Many of these coalitions have taken to supporting the TRADE Act. The TRADE Act, if passed, will establish a process to review and renegotiate the terms of existing trade agreements so that fair trade and fair labor rights will be more democratically enforced.
Some of these coalitions have also come together to broaden aware-ness of the current global economic crisis. Tradestories.org, a product of these efforts, is an ongoing project that attempts to enlighten citizens by sharing stories of people affected by the evils of corporate globalization. Citizens from New England and from Central and South American countries are able to express their feelings about free trade agreements and how their jobs and lives were personally disturbed.
“We created this listening project,” said Bigney, “because corporate globalization has displaced so many.” Bigney’s hope is that, by listening to stories from people far from home that share the same distress, workers of all nations will develop a better understanding for how corporate globalization hurts us all.
“Economic conditions happen for a reason,” said Bigney, “and the system can seem so daunting. But we can trade in a totally different – and democratic – way.”
On Thurs., Sept. 29, the World Language Society presented “May I Speak?”, a documen-tary about the political, economic, and social divide in Venezuela.
The documentary was followed up with a presentation by Edgar Ochoa, one of the four Venezuelan students currently attending Plymouth State University. Ochoa came to New Hampshire from Venezuela five years ago. He is a student that has experienced Venezuelan culture and politics first hand.
The presentation that followed was in a ques-tion and answer format that included the three other Venezuelan students: Sharon Grace, Frank Martinez, and Marys Mata.
The documentary “May I Speak?” is a full-length film by Sol Productions that focuses on a divided Venezuelan society. The primary focus of the film is Hugo Chavez and the rising politi-cal opposition on the road towards re-election.
The makers of the film spent a lot of time in Venezuela interviewing citizens on both sides of the political spectrum. The film crew interviews ranged from the poor living in the infamous lower class barrios to a number of students and professors attending the Central University of Venezuela. The responses were all different, but one thing was made clear, the Venezuelan political system isn’t working as an effective democracy.
The documentary is most concerned with the growing power of Hugo Chavez and the movement towards an authoritarian system of government. Sol Productions interviewed Margarita Lopez Maya, professor of history at
Central University of Venezuela. When asked about her concerns with the polarized political system in Venezuela she said, “My concern is that, within this context of polarization, they will get rid of representative democracy.”
The film further solidified fears of an authori-tarian movement by adding in multiple clips of Hugo Chavez speaking at rallies and making comments that could suggest actions that are undemocratic. The film quotes Chavez saying, “There is no room in Venezuela... for any other project then the Bolivarian Revolution.”
The film used a variety of similar quotes to prove their point, and was a successful, though biased, representation of Venezuelan politics.
The Venezuelan students that attend Plym-outh State University all had similar opinions in regards to the film. The general consensus was that it missed certain key points and there were a few misrepresentations of the Venezu-elan people. Edgar Ochoa said, “It was a very balanced video, but it needed more details and missed key points.”
When asked to comment on Hugo Chavez and the condition of Venezuela under his presidency, Sharon Grace said, “I think it’s a reality for the very poor people that have little knowledge of the real situation... Chavez buys the people, they think of him as a god and vote for him.” This was a key underlying issue in Venezuelan politics and an obstacle for politi-cal change.
The presentation came towards the end of Hispanic Heritage month and was an event that illustrated cultural diversity here at Plymouth State University.
Felicia Truman Staff Writer
Now is your chance because on October 16, 2011, Student Senate will meet with Reslife and Dining Services to directly ask questions about changes that have recently occurred and to suggest new ideas. These meetings occur roughly four times a year, and this opportunity allows Plymouth State students to ask anything they would like about the choices Residential Life and the dining hall has made or what they would like to see changed. It is important for students to get their opinions out there because this is our campus. This gives us a chance to express our true thoughts and ideas and maybe even change the way things are done in Residential Life and Dining Services.
If you would like Senate to ask one of your questions at the upcoming meeting, please send an email to The Clock at [email protected] or Student Senate at [email protected]. You can also attend the meeting on Sunday, October 16th for more information.
#3 Black
3THECLOCK October 7, 2011
Adam Di FilippeStaff Writer
Light up the Darkness
Stoppe Management Services, Inc. Promotes “Going Green”
So who is excited about the fifth iPhone? Well, as you might have guessed from previ-ously reading my column, I am not.
This is not due to the fact that I simply cannot afford this latest ploy by a major cor-poration to take my hard earned money. It’s more along the lines of: Why should I care about this thing?
For those of you that have been paying more attention to the exploits of celebrities and new gadgets, let me explain my idea of important events. Our economy is in a reces-sion. The cost of attending this University and all others is increasing. The ability to find any kind of job is diminishing. We are fighting multiple foreign wars. The education system in this country is deplorable, and the teachers are the ones that are blamed. Etc.
Then, we are expected in this culture to accept those things as they are and that there is nothing we can do to change them. However, what we can do is go out and buy the latest piece of technology that we cannot afford.
As you can tell by my rant, I disagree. I care deeply about the fact that people
devote more time and effort to the latest fads and gadgets than they do the basic necessi-ties in a developed culture such as equality and higher education. Women still get paid less than their male counterparts. Members
of the LGBQT community still have to live in fear when they walk home alone at night, even on our own campus. In the year 2011, we still execute people as a form of deterrent against crime.
If you are reading this, there is a good chance you are a stu-dent. I’m guessing you are pretty angry at this point. Who am I to say that you have the wrong priorities and that you don’t care about the denial of basic civil rights in our country? Well, I am a human rights activist, on and off campus. I go to most of the events, and the head counts are sad. The only people that seem to show up to the events are the people that are directly involved with the organization, hosting it, or students that want to receive extra credit from professors.
Angry yet? I want you to be angry. I want
you to prove me wrong. I want you to use that passion and get involved in your community. If you are interested in animal rights, start a chapter of ASPCA on campus. If you are into politics, join PSU Democrats or the Republican counterpart. Wherever your passions lie, you have all you need right in front of you, as well as all of the amazing people at Plymouth State University who would give an arm and a leg to see you succeed.
One such person is Jennifer White, Assistant Director for Student Activities. White was the first person I talked to way back when I got Amnesty International going on campus. When it comes to changing the world or start-ing a club, it’s the same, she says, “You have to jump in!” Even if you are not an out-going, save the world type like myself, there are plenty
of events to be involved in all over the place. White continued, “There are still plenty of opportunities to remain passive, but still be involved. Like going to the Fire Place Lounge for an Open Mic night.”
It was rough getting my organization off the ground, but there have been few times in my life that have been as rewarding as working with Amnesty. Caitlyn Kearney, a psychology major at PSU feels the same. “I’m involved in Psychol-ogy Club, Social Work Club, and Service Satur-days.” Caitlyn wants to be a school counselor when she graduates. What she learns in these groups will help prepare her for her future.
Organizations and clubs are important to
students because they provide you with the tools needed to change the world when you graduate. “How else can you practice real world problems? You can’t learn how to live from reading books and classes alone.” White exclaimed.
Which leaves us here. What is most important to you? What are you passionate about? What is the one thing that always makes you smile? What makes you “white-knuckle” angry?
And most importantly, what are you going to do about it?
Start Changing the World Now
Plymouth State University is a campus known for various green initiatives and commitment to decreasing its carbon footprint. Such actions as placing recy-cling receptacles all across campus, joining the President’s Climate Commitment in 2007, an initiative that puts an emphasis on the sustainability of a campus and the envi-ronmental awareness of its students, and building Langdon Woods residence hall to U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) standards have set PSU apart in the cause to “Go Green”.
These environmentally friendly changes, however, are not present solely on campus. PSU alumnus Don Stoppe, owner of Stoppe Management Services, Inc. on 40 Highland Street, is a business man committed to the green cause. Mr. Stoppe owns real estate on a number of streets surrounding the PSU campus, and most of these dwellings have been revisited and revamped to make them more energy efficient.
The simplest changes that have been made are things that homeowners every-
Rachel PerelliAssistant News Editor
where can take advantage of and invest in, for the payoff of a lower oil bill. Stoppe Management re-insulated the wal ls of their houses, basements, attics, and pipes, replaced windows with new thermo pane glass, put “wind shells” around the houses (further insulation of the walls), and even installed new, more efficient heating sys-tems.
Stoppe says it is a goal of his to “make people more comfortable with less oil.” As the price of oil spiked over the last few years, Stoppe was inspired to make a change and, among other things, decided to put in his hand at harnessing the power of the sun.
“The people who invest in solar panels encourage others to do the same, which aids in the promotion and further devel-opment of solar technology,” remarks Stoppe when discussing energy efficiency supported by the Obama energy initia-tives. Even the surrounding community of Plymouth gets involved with this cause. The Plymouth Area Renewable Energy Init iat ive helps community members receive grants for solar panels, and even help install said panels without the extra cost of having to bring in a company to
install them.“Solar panels are expensive, but not
magic.” By this, Stoppe comments on the fact that normal plumbing parts are used in the installation of solar panels, and if one utilizes their own crew to carry out the job, the very expensive middle man can be eliminated.
Stoppe was equally as passionate about introducing his tenants and the community to single stream recycling. This program was enforced during the 2010 fall semester, and by last Christmas, Stoppe had set up four recycling centers (consisting of a tra-ditional dumpster and a dumpster specifi-cally for recyclables). Presently, there are eight of these centers located throughout the various properties that Stoppe owns.
Single stream recycling acquired more participants than traditional recycling because the glasses, plastics, and card-board, etc., do not need to be separated. That separation is done at the plant. Also, if a tenant chooses not to recycle, that is their choice, but will not ruin the program for those who do recycle. How-ever, it is Stoppe’s goal “to have everyone participate.”
Indeed, this trend has had an impact
on other realty management companies because, according to Stoppe, after stu-dents began asking whether or not single stream recycling was offered, businesses such as Fox Park Apartments and Off Campus Rentals offered it as well. Stoppe wants students to speak up and “say they want it (single stream recycling programs), and to participate because it’s the right thing to do.”
“Each year our company picks a project to take on, whether it’s replacing windows or installing solar panels,” says Stoppe, and it is his hope to continue installing solar panels onto the southern facing roofs of his apartments on Russell Street.
Stoppe even received some other ideas about making his apartments more energy efficient from the sign right outside of the PSU Ecohouse. This perfectly dem-onstrates the harmony that is so sought after between campus community and town community. Various things can be learned from the other and, in turn, both can work together to make the town and campus a more efficient and environmen-tally friendly place.
CLOCK ARCHIVE PHOTOS
Black #44 THECLOCKOctober 7, 2011
Ben KingA&E Editor
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arts & entertainment.This Time Next Year Live Up to
the Hype
David C. BensonFor the Clock
“Scott Pilgrim vs. The World”
Grab the second control ler and join in one of the best geeky films ever, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World. The movie is based on a graphic novel series by the same name. Scott Pilgrim vs. The World is about a man named Scott Pilgrim who strives to date a girl named Ramona Flow-ers, who agrees, but he must defeat her seven evil exes in order to win her heart. Of course, this is just a brief description of the plot, as there is much, much, much more to it. This film stars Michael Cera as Scott Pilgrim; this seems like a weird choice because Michael is sort of a quiet actor, while Scott is pompous and self-centered. However, Cera makes it work. Mary Winstead stars as Ramona Flowers, and she seems to bring the right amount of restraint and attitude that the character has in the original novels.
This film has the right balance of telling a story and also paying homage to aspects of video games and 80’s/90’s culture. One of the most positive traits of the film is that, while it is heavily inspired by video games, it doesn’t talk about them every single second like most other films cen-tered around video games do. The action scenes are also very funny and tense when Scott has to face all of the evil exes, espe-cially during the 3rd ex. The setting of Toronto, Canada is also quite a contrast to the action scenes in the film; it looks
Imitation is the sincerest form of flat-tery. Take that phrase, and apply it to the plethora of pop punk the music scene has produced over the last couple years. The genre has become oversaturated with a new crop of New Found Glory clones, and as each Tuesday goes by, it becomes harder and harder for the cream to rise to the top of the metaphorical overflowing barrel. With that in mind, turn your attention to Drop Out of Life, the fantastic new effort by Walnut Creek, California’s purveyors of pop-punk perfection This Time Next Year.
From the opening chords of the title track, you know exactly what you’re get-ting into. The band wastes no time with artsy intro tracks or 30 second patches of superfluous distortion; they just beat you over the head with hooks until your ears are ringing. Cuts like the fantastic “Last Call” bring to mind the golden era of Drive-Thru Records pop punk bands like Fenix Tx, The Starting Line’s earlier work and of course, the Movielife, from whose debut album the band got their name. “Last Call” may in fact be the best song the band has written to date; they really nailed down the harmonic prowess they had hinted at on previous releases with that song.
The lyrical themes covered by frontman Brad Wiseman on Drop Out of Life are tried and true pop punk topics: missing
home, loneliness, worthlessness, friend-ship and of course, the ladies. There is an earnestness that Wiseman conveys so well in a genre overwrought with phoned in sentiments of love and loss. It’s a diffi-cult feat to achieve, and the man deserves applause for his vocal performance here, highlighted nicely by the increasingly stellar production of New Found Glory guitarist Chad Gilbert (seriously, each time this guy turns the knobs for a band, he gets better. Gilbert is quickly rising through the production ranks).
This Time Next Year seamlessly weaves the quirkiness of Bayside, the bombast of Set Your Goals, the musings of the Wonder Years and the hooks of Man Overboard into a fantastic, glossy-but-not-overpower-inlgy-so package that places them among those peers in the upper echelons of pop punk. On previous releases, the band has fallen just short of greatness, but it’s safe to say (after turning out absolute bangers like “Get It, Got It, Good” and “This Is An Airport Train”) this time around, they’ve hit the mark nicely.
Drop Out of Life raises the hell out of the bar for modern pop punk. TTNY deftly maneuver their way through 13 infectious gems that could just have easily been released in 2003 as in 2011, and that’s a compliment. Do yourself a favor and cruise over to Hot Topic and pick this one up, out now on Equal Vision Records. You won’t regret it.
very unsuspecting of all the craziness of what lurks in the film. The actors do a very good job of playing characters that many actors would probably overact with if given the role; even the supporting actors are memorable and the viewer is likely to remember them for a while. The special effects do look a little cheap, but, they work with the film’s straight attitude about itself.
There are nitpicks in the film, though, considering the fact this series spawns six novels filled to the brim with prospective plot points. The film is significantly cut down to an hour and 53 minutes, despite the wealth of material. While most people won’t notice the difference, a reader of the books will immediately. Also, the ending is a little anti-climatic to those who read the books. Again, these are nitpicks that shouldn’t ruin the film for anyone. The film could actually serve as a suitable gateway to reading the books to receive the full experience. Overall, this is a plea-sure for the eyes and people who love pop culture. The film isn’t oversaturated with theme, and the story is pretty neat. Aside from the nitpicks, if you have ever played a video game, you will enjoy this film’s special effects and references.
Keepin' Time
#5 Black
5THECLOCK October 7, 2011
Ben KingA&E Editor
Keepin' TimeTeach Me How to
QUESTIONSMollie Menees
Assistant A&E Editor
w/ Eric Serna of Erick Serna & The Killing Floor
I am getting older. I turn 23 in November, and I never thought at this point in my life I would feel so out of touch with pop culture. Every day, I read my music blogs and magazines, and I am continually amazed by how little I know about emerging trends and artists outside of my normal area of interest. I have no idea who the artists were on the cover of SPIN these last 2 issues. I just did not recognize them. What is a Lykke Li? Dear God, have I lost my mind? I used to be so on top of these things, and it seems I have tunneled my way backwards into my comfortable shell of pop punk and hardcore favorites. I find myself continually listening to the same bands I did when I was 14, as well as the newer bands that sound like bands I listened to when I was 14, mainly because I find less and less in common with things these days. I know why my parents still listen to the bands they listened to in college now, I guess.
I didn’t really know what dubstep was until last semester, and I thought it was a joke. Someone had to explain to me that it was this huge musical phenomenon that people actually enjoyed. To me, it sounded like a Macbook vomiting glitter. The sound was a confusing
Formally a member of The Dear Hunter, Erick Serna was once one of the last 2 origi-nal members in the band. Now on his own,
Erick has started his own band, Erick Serna
and The Ki l l ing Floor. Spending time recording in
“The Barn” (a fully functioning recording studio located in Northern
Connecticut put together by Josh Rheault of Mercies), Erick crafted a bluesy album that will make ears bleed. Showcasing his guitar skill, Erick put all his heart and soul into this album, creating a wonderful sound that is bound to blow you away. Head over to http://erickserna.bandcamp.com and give Erick Serna and The Killing Tree a try. If you like music, you’ll surely enjoy their new album, The Grip.
1) Tell me the history about Erick Serna & The Killing Floor. How would you describe your sound?
There’s not too much history yet because every-thing is so new, haha. Maybe one day there will be a worthy “History of Erick Serna and The Killing Floor” to speak of, but I tend to take things as they come, so let’s leave that be for now. I would describe the sound as heavy, loud and sometimes psychedelic blues rock. I’ve always been into blues infused music and that definitely comes through, no doubt.
2 ) Yo u r e c e n t l y p a r t e d f r o m T h e D e a r Hu n t e r. Was it difficult to leave and s tart focus ing on ES&TKF? Nothing was really difficult about it; I was stoked to start writing and recording. I guess the only difficult thing was I wasn’t really sure what the future held. I got used to the cycle of writing, recording and touring on repeat year after year, so coming home from tour and deciding it was time to pave my own way and start from square one again was a little scary, but I think it worked out for the best for both The Dear Hunter and I. 3) Tell me about The Grip. Are there stories behind the songs? All of the songs are about things I’ve gone through personally. With the exception of 2 songs, most of the songs are about deceit, betrayal and sex, to be blunt. 4 ) Who i n s p i r e d yo u t o s t a r t p l a y i n g mu s i c ? Can t h o s e i n s p i ra t i o n s b e s e e n o n t h e r e c o rd ? I was first inspired to play music because of Beethoven’s song “Fur Elise”. I was 6 when I heard a family friend play that on the piano, and it hit me super hard. Shortly after that, I started taking piano lessons. About a year in, my teacher had to bail for some reason or another, so I stopped with the
piano. After that, I moved on to a summer/fall fling with drums. And then when I was about 12 years old when I heard “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” by Jimi Hendrix, and it completely blew my mind. I had no idea a guitar could sound that way, and from then on, I was hooked- guitar became my obsession. 5 ) Do you have any fu ture p lan s f o r ES&TKF? As I said before, I tend to take things as they come. But with that being said, I’m reaaaallllly looking for-ward to the prospect of heading out on the road again. I’ve been home for about a year, so I’m way itching to get back out there. It’ll happen, but i have to take it one day at a time and let things happen naturally.
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or note correction software on recent releases. What I don’t understand is how using purely a laptop to create makes you a musician. Girl Talk takes songs that have already been written by other people, combines them, and calls himself a musician. Really?
At the end of the day, I’m not trying to stir up a debate or make trouble, I’m just trying to understand. Not in a snarky, pretentious way, because that’s not my style, I just don’t understand the appeal at all. But I digress, I’m not one to spoil the party. Dance on kids, have fun with your electronica. Just remember: for every hipster dude with a laptop there’s a bread and butter rock n’ roll band working twice as hard and get-ting half the attention. As always, send hate/love mail to [email protected] and let’s chat it out.
mess that made me sad and made my head hurt. I found myself saying things like “This is not music. This is noise” and “People actually listen to this…for fun?” Then I real-ized I felt exactly how my Mom felt when I brought home my first death metal albums. She cringed with disgust and confusion in the same way I did the first time I heard a “filthy” beat or whatever the kids say these days. She asked the same questions. She didn’t get it. And now I realize that I am at the age where it is entirely possible for me to not understand a youth generated cultural phenomenon’s purpose or existence.
The coolest thing about music is that it’s completely, 100% subjective. There is no such thing as a “bad” song or album; it’s all personal taste. So to say that dubstep is “bad” or that something I like is “good” is a completely unfounded, ridiculous point to try to make. The only proof anyone could have in such an argument is borne from their own internal bias; and that is why the endless fight about what bands and songs are better or worse than others is a pointless, arrogant argument. If you have ever said that a band “sucks,” you were wrong, you just don’t like them, and other people probably do.
Having said all that, I just don’t get it. Going by the definition of music as organized sound, I suppose dubstep qualifies. I understand with advances in recording software, you no longer need physical instruments to make music. Hell, there are bands I enjoy that have used drum machines
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Black #66 THECLOCKOctober 7, 2011
Ten Differences!By Katie Benton
opinions & editorials.
Content ManagerMaegan Manson
Video and BroadcastingMatt Martin
Copy EditorVACANT
Staff WritersFelicia Truman
Contributors Paul Bagnall
David BensonJosh CooleyMike Hickey
Russell ManciniAbbey Ritter
Andrew Stephens
Layout AssistantsMariella Rollins
Editor-in-Chief Veronica Musch
Assistant News EditorRachel Perelli
Managing/News EditorRachael Ferranti
Production ManagerElizabeth McCarthy
Features EditorAlexandra DeBlois
A&E EditorBen King
Photo EditorAdam Di Filippe
Assistant Photo EditorKaitlyn Benton
Assistant A&E EditorMollie Menees
Assistant Sports EditorJacob Gagnon
Sports EditorEric Brill
Assistant Features EditorAlex Cabeceiras
AdvisorScott Coykendall
Graphic ArtistVACANT
Advertising SalesColin MurphyRichard Duffy
Amanda L'[email protected]
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The ClockKnow the Times - Read The Clock
1. Missing outlet on the left
2. Water canteen missing
3. Man in the front has beard
4. Man in back has more hair
5. Man in back is missing watch
6. TOSHIBA logo is missing
7. NOS can is larger
8. Extra dominos in center of table
9. Logo missing on the shirt of the man in the back
10. Extra dominos in front of girl in the back
Ten Differences Answers!
Alexander CabeceirasAssistant Features Editor
#7 Black
7THECLOCK October 7, 2011features.Alexander Cabeceiras
Assistant Features Editor
Abbey RitterFor The Clock
Not Just a Potluck
Why Does Marriage Matter?
CLOCK PHOTOS / ADAM DI FILIPPE
CLOCK PHOTOS / ADAM DI FILIPPE
Equal marriage rights in New Hampshire are in danger of being replaced by what the members of the state congress call a “civil union.” But as a panel of experts pointed out during the “Why Does Marriage Matter?” discussion, the pro-posed new title will not suffice.
“The legislative proposal is called ‘civil union,’ but under this law a grandmother and grandchild can get one,” Brian Donaghy, a professor and gay rights activist at Keene State University pointed out to the crowd, “and most important the bill is strictly voluntary.”
Making recognition of a civil union vol-untary may impact gay and lesbian couples throughout the state dramatically. The change would strip couples of recognition and rights that normal married couples receive. Another speaker on the panel, Brian Rayder, gave a scenario that an employer doesn’t have to recognize, therefore can deny healthcare and benefits to someone’s spouse. These laws not only deny the right to an equal marriage, but they would undermine nondiscrimination laws. Implementation of this law is a massive step backwards for gay rights activists.
If the bill does pass (which is likely with a Republicans majority in the congress), many believe Governor Lynch will veto it. Lynch has taken a stand on marriage rights before saying, “a separate system is not an equal system.”
Whether the bill passes or not, proposed bills like this one, goes to show how fragile equal rights are in the state of New Hamp-shire. Unlike states such as Connecticut and Massachusetts who gained equal marriage rights via the judicial process, New Hamp-shire’s law came through the legislator. Leg-
islative laws are always vulnerable to reform. The panel discussion continued throughout
the evening with a variety of topics from the background history on the states gay-rights progress to many other issues of gender equal-ity in America.
Another speaker on the panel, Sue Ford, a democratic congresswomen, urged the group in the Frost Commons to not be stagnant on gay and lesbian issues. “Personal phone calls make a difference. Make somebody listen” Ford said. Ford encouraged the group to find out who their representatives are and to make
A “Welcome Back” Potluck last Thurs-day, October 29, 2011, kicked off the first Queer History Month at Plymouth State University. It is the first of many events that are going to occur throughout October, courtesy of the SAGE Center and student group, Pride.
Delilah Smith, coordinator of the SAGE Center, welcomed and thanked those in attendance at the Potluck by saying that they help to “make our campus safe and inclusive.” And that’s just how the Potluck felt: inclusive and friendly.
Upon entering the HUB’s HAGE room, guests were handed information pamphlets
for the SAGE Center and a “bingo” sheet covered in facts about various faculty and Pride members. The goal was to get guests to mingle with, introduce, and learn about each other. This friendliness surfaced throughout the Potluck, including when Jocelyn Howard, Pride Secretary and Outreach Coordinator at the SAGE Center, introduced herself and discussed events scheduled for October.
Smith thanked Dr. James Whiting, a profes-sor in the Linguistics Department, for his con-tributions to Queer History Month on PSU’s campus. Smith said that Whiting was the “driving force” behind the months’ festivities.
Whiting mentioned the “It Gets Better” video, made by PSU faculty members and released online on YouTube. The video is a part of a larger, national campaign to stop the
brief contact expressing personal thoughts and ideals.
The discussion, which was fueled by anony-mous audience questions, gave students and attendees the opportunity to asks tough questions to the panel of experts. The hour long presentation was informative and driven to inspire the crowd.
This event was part of many events “Queer History Month” has to offer. The group S.A.G.E. (Sexuality, Anti-Violence, Gender and Equality) has many more events like this to come throughout the month of October.
bullying of queer youth. According to Whit-ing, PSU’s video has been viewed in all but one state in the United States. The video is a great accomplishment for the Plymouth community and prompted discussion around the topic, which ultimately built a great atmosphere among those at the Potluck.
Pride, a student organization at PSU that includes both gay and straight members, pro-motes equality, acceptance, and a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community, and is a key part of Queer History Month alongside the SAGE Center. Pride is a group that commits itself month after month to a safe atmosphere for the LGBTQ+ and allies at PSU. PSU senior, English major, and former Pride president, Josh Cooley, discussed the benefits of non-Pride affiliated students taking notice or get-
ting involved in Queer History Month. Cooley stated the significance “to still celebrate and remember where people have come from.” He compared it to the cultural pride that Hispanic and African American peoples have within their respective histories and communities. As far as campus participation goes, Cooley asked, “What better way to get to know all of what the world has to offer than to get involved?”
Events to occur during the month of Octo-ber include National Coming out day on Tues-day the 11th, National Ally Coming out day on Thursday the 13th, a Queer Literary Potluck on Tuesday the 18th, and a showing of the film “The Kids Are All Right” on Thursday the 20th. Any student on campus can get involved by visiting the SAGE Center in person or online via PSU’s website or Facebook.
Black #88 THECLOCKOctober 7, 2011
PASS on the Knowledge
A Day's Walk for Cancer
Alexandra DeBloisFeatures Editor
Paul BagnallFor the Clock
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Paul BagnallFor the Clock
No one can be an aficionado in everything they do. We all have those subjects that stump us at one point or another, and when they do, take advantage of the PASS program here at Plymouth State University. PASS is located on the lower level of the Lamson Library. The program is an aid for undergraduate students to become dependent and efficient learners.
The student and professional staff at the PASS office are here to guide students in academic counseling, subject area-tutoring, services for students with disabilities, and developing effective learning strategies. The office provides a tranquil and professional set-ting complete with a computer cluster available to the public. You might even recognize some friendly faces as selected staff can be made up of academically successful students. Interested in being one of these academically success-ful students with work-study or hourly work? Check online to see if your help is needed at the front desk or if you are interested in being a tutor for your peers.
PASS offers software to aid students with diverse studying tools to enhance learning skills. Kurzweil 3000 is a program enabling print to be converted to electronic text. This software
can then be accessed via the student’s computer or MP3 for a better com-prehension of the material. However, some students understand text better via audio. Dragon Naturally Speaking is software that is voice activated for students who work better with the dictation of the spoken word.
A largely Federal funded program TRIO, as a part of Student Support Services from the U.S. Department of Education, accompanies the PASS program. This federal program has been up and running since 1968 on campuses across the nation, serving first generation college students, stu-dents with disabilities and low income students This is extended service with the use of federal money, in which case students interested should visit the Plymouth Academic Support Services page to check for eligibility.
The director of the pass program, Susan Keefe, stresses the mission state-ment of the department. “I would like to subscribe the notion that one size fits all, here we are all about strategy and student success”. Keefe contin-ued to expand on the importance of “graduation and persistence; we are all striving for academic success”. Students paying for a four-year education tend to have similar
O n Saturday, October 1, 2011, rain poured down on the Athletic Depart-ment’s front field. The weather had no effect on stopping the 12th Annual Day To Fight Cancer. Diane Tiffany organized this year’s walk, bringing some new activities and business to the event. Seven different sports teams had shown up to participate, in addition were some sororities such as Delta Zeta. Plymouth State University’s Dance Team gave a live performance of Zumba in honor of students and relatives fighting cancer. A variety of girls from dif-ferent organizations were proudly shining their colors in light of the drizzled event. The boy’s sports teams would make a later appearance, shrugging off the mud from the torrential downpour.
Plymouth’s Walk for Cancer brings in about twenty-five thousand dollars a year, providing scholarships to families whose siblings or children who are going through the difficulties of cancer. To get the infor-mation, the generous incorporation works with the local hospital, getting referrals to people in Plymouth, New Hampshire. Following up this year’s help are textbook awards donated by the campus bookstore.
The walk started at 11:30am. This year’s Miss New Hampshire, Reagan Heartly, showing support for the fundraiser, cut the ribbon. Miss Heartly had also lost a loved one to cancer and was behind Plymouth’s fundraiser leading up to her big cut. “ It’s all about neighbors helping neighbors, and PSU is our neighbor,” said Lyndsay Divine.
Lyndsay along with her partner Mary Jane ran the Silent Auction, a new addition to the walk of 2011. There were some prizes to be won and announcements to be made as the day sloshed on. Another new addition to the walk was the tie-dye T-shirts, made and sold
by John Anderson with his wife. Some of the new items consisted of lumi-
naries, food donations by various companies and businesses of Plymouth or in the area. Energy Kinesiologist Suzanne Schwartz, who works with the American Massage Therapy Association, also pitched in by donated chair massages. In her beliefs, massage therapy is a good tool in healing people with cancer, both emotionally and spiritually. Not only did this event stir up awareness for cancer but uses different ways of healing the traumatic tensions that cancer brings. Updating the front lines were some larger businesses.
The Coca-Cola Company donated Pow-
goals as Keefe. Since we are trying to get the most out of our experience here at PSU, utilize this unique tool given to us by the university.
Visit the office or explore their website to see what PASS has to offer you.
erAde, and Green Mountain donated the caffeinated beverages. The Common Man network sold hotdogs and hamburgers, and Peppercorn Popcorn gave out their locally famed popcorn bags.
Big businesses weren’t the only ones getting involved. Robert Mcafee’s Brother Dave’s Builders is one small business. Mcafee’s company was named in memory of his late little brother, Dave Brown. Brown unfortunately lost the fight to cancer in May 2004, at only 21 years of age. Incor-porated in the same year, the Keeping You, Me & Memories Alive Inc. made Mcafee a welcomed member to their team. Mcafee is also in the league with another cancer
awareness organization called Saint Bold-ricks, strengthening the cause and also the entertainment for the day. Another tool to spread cancer awareness is the website memoriesalive.org, recruiting new sponsors to their cause and promotes T-shirt sales on the side.
Melissa Merrill founded this non-profit group along with the help of seven members. They organized the first Walk for Cancer in 1999. The plan was to spread awareness to students or family members dealing with the hardships of cancer. Working in the Coun-seling Center of Plymouth State, Melissa’s goal was inspired by one of her loved one’s death from the rampant disease.
#9 Black
9THECLOCK October 7, 2011
Taste of Spanish HeritagePaul Bagnall
For the Clock
Among the coffee pots, brownies, and cookies were magazines promoting Academic Programs International abroad programs. There were a variety of destina-tions from Italy and England to Ireland. The program, based in Austin Texas, has been running strong for 12 years helping students to satisfy their travel bugs.
Lauren Bergeron has traveled to expe-rience South American culture. With a desire to expand on the culture, she held the first ever coffee tasting of various coffees from South America. As a study abroad student, she wanted to share the Spanish culture with Plymouth, while promoting s tudying abroad. S ince i t was Spanish heritage month (September 15-October 15), an appreciation of all the hard work and culture Spanish people have experienced.
Lauren went through study aboard underneath API, traveling to coffee farms in South America. There she saw how pas-sionate the Spanish were at making coffee, using all natural ways of producing their coffee beans. Making up the five coffee choices, each one from a different region all lined up in the Fireplace Lounge.
Coming from the perspective of some-one who has never tasted or liked coffee, each choice had its own natural flavor. The Guatemala Sebastian snaps your senses to attention with its quick jolt of bitterness. Colombian had a strong taste, however using additives to make it more tolerable. Peru was the sweetest tasting coffee of the bunch, while Don Bosco Panama was the most bitter requiring the assistance of cream and sugar. Costa Rican coffee was the strongest, almost too strong. Stu-dents who noticed the event enjoyed free samples of coffee and magazines.
“Nice that she’s bringing the countries to us,” said Mike Farkas commenting on Bergeron’s efforts. Mike is a Spanish major in his sophomore year at Plymouth State University. “It’s a small aspect of the cul-
ture,” commented Mike’s friend.More future events to promote studying
abroad will be taking place during Inter-national Week. Not only did Wednesday’s tasting promote students options, it also made students more aware of the labor force behind the South American coffee bean as opposed to the American product.
Green Mountain Coffee in the HUB didn’t lose many of their customers as some early risers were going in and out of the coffee stop for their morning routine. Managed by Marge Spead, who has never
had coffee from outside the US, her shop has ten flavorful varieties taken from our neighbor state, Vermont. Although not all organic, she gets a variety of flavors for students to try out. “Outside the country is too strong.” Spead claimed.
Back over at the event, Ted, another curious student sipping on the imported brew, liked the idea. His friend had been involved in the Nicaraguan trip, and in his opinion, the promotion of students travel-ing was a great idea. “New England is less of a diverse area,” said Bergeron. Her short
but sweet event did it’s job in promoting the Spanish heritage and coffee; each cup more unique than the next.
Coffee has been referred to as being the fuel of America, making it even more cru-cial for student awareness of where their so-called ‘fuel’ comes from. From the fresh picked branches to our mugs, the coffee from outside the country was definitely worth a sip of appreciation.
CLOCK PHOTO / ADAM DI FILIPPE
Did you know…
Sodexo uses local cage-‐free shell eggs (produced by cage-‐free hens) from Nellie's Nest Cage Free Eggs in Monroe, NH to support animal welfare. PSU Dining Services has a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
Black #1010 THECLOCKOctober 7, 2011
a lot of potential. We have a good chance at being a top contender.”
The Norsemen will look to get back on the winning track on Saturday, October 8th against Franklin Pierce University.
World Series prediction- Brewers over Tigers in 7
It is time for Prince to become a King. Prince Fielder, that is. The 275lb first baseman for the NL Central Champion Milwaukee Brew-ers has crushed the ball all season, batting well over .300 consistently. When you add in left fielder and hard-hitter, Ryan Braun, you have one of the most fearsome one-two punches since Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz. A blend of youth of strength makes Milwaukee the most formidable team in the Major League Playoffs this year.
Eric BrillSports Editor
Andrew StephensFor the Clock
Mike HickeyFor the Clock
Upcoming Home Games
10/8/11Field Hockey Fitchburg State 12:00 PM
10/8/11Football MIT 12:00 PM
10/8/11Women’s Soccer Southern Maine 4:30 PM
10/11/11Women’s SoccerGordon4:30 PM
10/12/11Men’s SoccerColby-Sawyer4:30 PM
10/13/11Women’s TennisFranklin Pierce3:30 PM
PSU Football’s Defense Explodes Past Nichols College
Norsemen Rugby Suffers First Loss of the Season to Amherst College
MLB Playoff Picks by the Sports Writers
Plymouth, N.H.— PSU Football avenged their own homecoming loss last weekend by botching Nichols College’s on Saturday October 1st. Plymouth State senior defensive back Christian Mulcahy (Norwich, Conn.) put on an NEFC Defensive Player of the Week performance, surging the Panthers past the Bison, 27-14, at Vendetti Field.
Jacob GagnonAssistant Sports Editor
Jacob GagnonAssistant Sports Editor
Jacob GagnonAssistant Sports Editor
A mherst, Mass.—Plymouth State University’s Men’s club team, the Norse-men Rugby Football Club, fell to Amherst College this past Saturday, October 1st, at Amherst’s rugby pitch, 17-5.
The muddy field conditions and steady rainfall slowed down the usually faster Norsemen. Amherst took advantage imme-
SCORE BOX: Plymouth 27 Nichols College 14
SCORE BOX: PSU Norsemen 5 Amherst College 17
“I feel that my personal performance was just a benefit from the hard work that all the guys around me put in for a full 60 minutes,” said Mulcahy, who seemed to do it all for the Panthers in Saturday’s game. “I was especially proud of the way that both the defense and special teams responded in times of adversity throughout the game.” Mulcahy recorded two interceptions and four pass breakups on defense, was 4 for 5 in PAT kicking, and also returned a kickoff 90 yards for a touchdown in the third quarter.
The Panthers took an early lead, and never let up against the Bison. After losing another quarterback to injury during last week’s game, Plymouth State sent out third-string quarterback freshman Joey Avila (Gloucester, Mass.) to start. The PSU offense kept the ball
for the first eight and a half minutes of play, finishing their first drive with a one-yard touchdown punched in by senior Dustin Matthews (Eliot, Maine), giving the visiting team a 6-0 lead. The score would change on PSU’s next drive. Avila and Matthews made their way down the field, setting up junior Andrew Foglia (Montauk, N.Y.) for a two-yard touchdown run.
The game’s action never stopped, as the Bison held PSU on the next series, giving the homecoming crowd hope. Nichol’s momen-tum was halted right away by Mulcahy, who collected his first of two interceptions on a Jacob Shoup pass attempt. On offense, senior Josh Duford (Claremont, N.H.) caught Avi-la’s pass for a touchdown, setting the score at 20-0 at the end of the half.
Nichols answered back when Shoup opened the third quarter with a touchdown pass to David Gonzalez. Mulcahy showcased his speed on the next kickoff, blowing past the Bison for a 90 yard touchdown and, again, stopping whatever comeback the home team mounted. Nichols scored once more in the fourth quarter, but was never able to overcome the deficit created by the Panthers.
Plymouth State will look to continue their dominance this Saturday at home against MIT. Mulcahy knows what he and his team-mates need to do for that to happen, “The momentum of the win will help us with our upcoming opponent, but we will have to pre-pare for MIT just as hard as we did Nichols.”
diately, attacking the visiting team with a score less than a minute into the match, taking a five-point lead. Plymouth State’s Norsemen responded at the end of the first half by getting on the scoreboard when Mike Armstrong (Nashua, N.H.) picked up a Joe Irvine (Bridgewater, Mass.) kick and offloaded it to Connor Sousa (Nashua, N.H.) as he was getting tackled. Sousa recorded the Norsemen’s only points of the match. PSU held the home team to 5-5 for the remainder of the first half, but soon fell to the bigger Amherst College team,
letting up two more scores and a two-point kick in the second half. “We came out flat in the beginning, but then we started play-ing smarter and tougher,” said Senior Ryan Cross (Barre, Vermont).
The Norsemen Rugby Football Club is dealing with the loss of graduates from last season and young recruits who are still learning the sport. With the loss, they drop to 1-1 on the season, including their Sep-tember 25th opening victory over Castleton State College, 52-10. For Cross, the hopes for this season are still high, “This team has
World Series prediction: Yankees over Phillies in 5
This is tough to call, with two great teams with good pitching and bats for days. The Phillies look to be a little too deep with their pitching for the Yankees bats to handle in a 7 game series. Philadelphia’s bats can muster up enough offense to keep them afloat. That, to go along with the fact that the Phillies are 52-29 at home while the Yanks are 45-36 on the road. Since the NL won the All-Star game, the Phillies would have home field advantage. This could play a huge part in their success.
World Series prediction: Rays over Brewers in 6
First of all, I’m still in shock of that three minutes that went from Crawford dropping that ball to Longoria, putting it over the wall. In a span of 180 seconds, the Sox became the biggest chokers ever, and the Rays became immortal Gods. Wow. The Rays have way too much momentum going for them to not win it all. This team’s underdog and energetic attitude reminds me of the 04’ Sox. I know Prince is struggling, but I think he has some revenge to pay to Texas after last year in the postseason. Longoria seems to be on cloud nine so that gives me confidence as well. With the one two combo of Fielder and Braun, I like the Brewers too reach the dance to . The magic of Tampa is just too over powering, though.
World Series prediction- Tigers over Brewers in 6
Despite having Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder, the Brewers need a little bit more help. Detroit has the best starting pitcher in the game right now with Justin Verlander, and players like Magglio Ordonez (who was on that team in ‘06) will allow the Tigers to celebrate their first World Series victory since 1984. The first question heading into the off-season will be where will Prince Fielder and Albert Pujols end up in 2012?
#11 Black
11THECLOCK October 7, 2011
Real Sports Talk With E-$It seems impossible to predict anything in the MLB and NFL worlds anymore.
Eric BrillSports Editor
How can Tony Romo be such an awful quarterback in the 4th quarter? Romo, who is the quarterback for the 2-2 Dallas Cowboys, led his team to a 24-3 lead over the Detroit Lions this past Sunday, and
then the trouble started. Romo threw a pass intended for Dez Bryant, but was picked off by former Cowboy great Bobby Carpenter (who went to Romo’s wedding only a few months back). Carpenter returned the interception for a touchdown, to make the score 24-10. After this, anyone would think that Romo would start handing the ball off to Felix Jones, run some clock, and eventually get the win, and the interception returned for the touchdown would be an after-thought. Romo goes out during the next possession and throws yet another interception that was returned for a touchdown to cornerback Chris Houston. The Lions end up scoring a couple more touchdowns (Calvin Johnson is an absolute animal), and the Cowboys end up losing. Romo has had a history of falling under pressure over the past few years (most noticeably against the Seahawks), and just can’t become a closer. In order for the Cowboys to have any success this year, Romo MUST play better. Romo’s failures in the 4th quarter weren’t the only thing of note, as the Philadelphia Eagles fell to 1-3 after a loss to the 49ers. The games that the Eagles have lost have been games that either A) they weren’t competitive in (vs. the Giants) or B) played awful after a huge lead (vs. the 49ers and vs. the Falcons). I think that they will eventually turn it around, but they are starting to run out of games to correct their problems. Between both conferences, I will say that the Packers, Saints, Lions, and Giants (in that order) are the best teams in the NFC while in the AFC the Patriots, Ravens, Texans and Titans (once again in that order) are the top 4 teams in my opinion.
The MLB post-season started up a week ago, but the biggest story coming into the post-season was the whole Boston Red Sox not making the playoffs mess. The Sox choked big time down the stretch (as did the Braves, which I feel went largely unnoticed) and didn’t deserve to have a chance to make the playoffs, let alone be in them. With that said, Terry Francona shouldn’t have left Boston (in my opinion, he is going to the White Sox). I don’t think anyone really knows if Francona decided to leave or if the Red Sox said to him behind closed doors something to the effect of “either resign or we are firing you”. Something had to be done, though, because this team underperformed greatly the first and last months of the season. Big money additions haven’t panned out as well as planned over the past few years (besides Adrian Gonzalez), and it doesn’t appear that the farm system has any great potential over the next few years. Someone needs to come in and tweak a couple of things, and this team will be on its way. Speak-ing of Gonzalez, had the team made the playoffs, he would have been my MVP of the American League, but since they didn’t, he is out of the picture (as is Jose Bautista and Jacoby Ellsbury). This leaves the potential of anyone on the Rangers, Rays, Yankees or Tigers left. The Rangers didn’t have anyone that stood out this year (maybe Michael Young has the best shot), the Rays had a lot of good players this year (no one hit over .300 besides Casey Kotchman), and the Yankees have two players that are going to cancel each other out (Robinson Cano and Curtis Granderson). That leaves the Tigers. Miguel Cabrera was a HUGE part of their offense, but wasn’t the best player on team this year. That belongs to Justin Verlander, who is my pick not only to win the AL Cy Young, but also the AL MVP. On the NL side of things, it is a two man race between Matt Kemp and Ryan Braun, but I have to give it to Braun based on the Brewers making the playoffs. The NL Cy Young is
wide open between Roy Halladay, Clayton Kershaw, Cliff Lee and Ian Kennedy. Halladay and Lee cancel each other out by being on the same team, and Kershaw was on the Dodgers (who finished 12 games out in the NL West). This leaves my NL Cy Young winner in Kennedy who went 21-4 with a 2.88 E.R.A and 198 strikeouts. My post-season picks are on a dif-ferent page, along with my fellow sports writers.
The Bruins season got kicked off last night against the Flyers by raising the banner at the TD Garden. Unlike most teams that win a championship, the Bruins seem poised to make another run at another Stanley Cup after bringing most of their big pieces back in Tim Thomas, Zdeno Chara, and Milan Lucic. The Flyers should be quite an interesting team themselves, though, as Jaromir Jagr returns to play North American hockey yet again. Jagr has been quite a player during his career, and it should be something to follow him after playing in Russia the past couple of years. Also in the Eastern Conference are the Washington Capitals (who can never be counted out with Alex Ovechkin), the Pittsburgh Penguins (Sidney Crosby’s return is crucial for their season), the Tampa Bay Lightning (Steven Stamkos is one of the best players in the league, and Martin St Louis is ageless) and the New York Rangers (Henrik Lundqvist is one of the top 5 goaltenders in the league). The Western Side of the league features the Vancouver Canucks (defending West champs, Daniel Sedin is awesome), the San Jose Sharks (always do well in the regular season, Patrick Marleau leads the offense), Anaheim Ducks (Teemu Selanne had 80 points last year), and the Detroit Red Wings (always a threat, Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg are a threat whenever they touch the puck). Each NHL season always has surprises in it, and this season seems to be no different then any other.
In the college football world, the top seven schools had uneventful games, with #4 Boise State having the closest margin of victory at 20 points over Nevada. Wisconsin (who was ranked #7 coming into last week) defeated Nebraska (previously ranked #8) quite easily, defeating the Cornhuskers 48-17. This win solidified that Wisconsin is a top five team (now ranked 4th in the nation), and they have a great shot at winning the Big Ten conference. The one team that isn’t get-ting any love this year appears to be the Oklahoma Sooners, who are ranked 3rd after destroying Ball State. The Sooners have a big match-up this week against the Texas Longhorns. Texas hasn’t played any extremely tough opponents yet, and this week is their put up or shut up week in my opinion. Whoever wins the Red River game seems destined to gain a hell of a lot of momentum, and Landry Jones (for Oklahoma) and Jaxon Shipley (for Texas) need to have big games for their teams to win. #1 ranked LSU continued their undefeated season by beating Kentucky 35-7, but come into this week facing a Florida Gators team that is up and coming. Jarrett Lee has played well, filling in for the suspended Jordan Jefferson this year, but playing Florida, who comes in with nothing to lose, should keep Lee from putting up huge numbers this week. With that said, I think the Tigers will win 21-10 to go to 6-0 on the year.
In other irrelevant (though I find interesting) sports news:
-The whole thing with the defense calling out the quarter-back’s cadence happens all the time (even in high school). It is the center’s job to distinguish the two voices (between the QB and defense).
-After Ed Reed’s performance against the Jets on Sunday night, there is no doubt that he is a future hall of famer, but he is as valuable to that defense as anyone else is to their team (including Tom Brady).
-Vince Wilfork has more interceptions then Nnamdi Aso-mugha, Darrelle Revis and the entire Cincinnati Bengals’ and Pittsburgh Steelers’ teams.
-Nice to see Tom Brady record his 274th career touchdown pass in Oakland (to pass Joe Montana for 9th on the list).
Brady had previously never thrown a touchdown in the Bay Area (against Oakland or San Francisco).
-Those black jerseys on black pants combinations the Baltimore Ravens have are so sweet.
-Matt Hasselbeck is probably the most valuable quar-terback to his team.
-Despite being on arguably the worse team in the NFL, Maurice Jones-Drew is 2nd in the NFL in rushing yards.
-Despite being 1-3, the Eagles have scored as many points as they have let up.
-Andre Johnson missing some time (it was unknown as of Monday night how long he would be out) is going to hurt the Texans offense significantly.
-Ben Roethlisberger playing status this week against the Tennessee Titans won’t make a difference. The Steelers offense line has as many holes in it as a used pair of skies.
-As far as the Kobe Bryant talks with the Italian team Virtus Bologna, in my opinion, aren’t as serious as made out to be. I think Kobe is trying to just push the NBAPA and the NBA to come to an agreement.
-Despite Charles Woodson turning 35 today, the Green Bay Packers cornerback is still a top 3 corner in the league and has no signs of slowing down.
-Chris Johnson is averaging 2.88 yards per carry this year, which is less then Delone Carter, Jacquizz Rodgers and Jackie Battle (who?).
-Jerrod Mayo, being potentially out for 6 weeks, is going to kills the Patriots defense. The linebacker on the Pats really aren’t that bad, but Mayo is the heart of that defense.
-Tiger Woods dropped out of the top 50 in the world golf rankings for the first time since 1996. His career isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
-Theo Epstein should be fired from the Sox. During Epstein time as their general manager, Epstein has added the likes of Mike Cameron, Bobby Jenks, Julio Lugo, Edgar Renteria, J.D. Drew and John Lackey, among others. Epstein has made some awful decisions, and it is time for him to go.
-Best NFL game of the upcoming week? The Eagles traveling to Buffalo. How will both teams face adversity this weekend?
-My pick to win the race at Kansas this weekend is Carl Edwards.
Non-sports information of the week:-Is it me or are there a lot pigeons on campus this year?-The snow that fell in North Carolina and West Virginia
last weekend excited the hell out of me for this upcoming Winter.
-Shout-out to Mike at New World Auto for taking care of my boy Steve Swiatlowski’s car.
-Everyone have a safe long weekend, and don’t do any-thing too stupid.
-I think of this weekend as the mid-way point between the beginning of the school year and Thanksgiving, but that’s me.
-Another shout-out is necessary; Plymouth Police gets a lot of crap from students, but one of the officers gave me a ride back from the Ice Arena to Hall Hall when it was raining like hell over the weekend. Needless to say, they got a lot of respect from me.
***One more quick thing- shout-out to Sara Burke, who is a junior on Plymouth’s Women’s Tennis team. Burke was named LEC Women’s Tennis Player of the Week after going 3-0 in her individual matches including beating one of the top players in the conference, Michelle McEwen (who goes to Salem State). The 3-0 record not only helped improve Burke’s individual record to 6-3 this year (5-1 against LEC opponents), but allowed the Panthers to go 2-1 within the past week. The Panthers look to continue their strong season (6-3 overall, 3-3 in the LEC) against Worcester State University tomorrow in a LEC match-up. Hopefully, Burke and the rest of the Panthers can keep this momentum going!
‘Till next week I’m outta here..............
Black #1212 THECLOCKOctober 7, 2011sports.
Eric BrillSports Editor
Plymouth Women’s Volleyball Team Continues their Winning Ways
After defeating Keene State this past Tuesday, October 4th, the Panthers brought their overall record to 12-5, and their Little East Conference record to 2-1. The volleyball team has now won eight consecutive matches after this victory.
Before the Tuesday match, Plymouth went 4-0 at the Wildcat Fall Classic last Friday and Saturday. The four matches, which Plymouth won a total of 12 sets to 3, saw senior Meghan Sullivan (Marlton, N.J.) and junior Casey Stoodley (Salem, N.H.) named to the All-Tournament team.
Between the Friday and Saturday matches, Meghan Sul-livan had 10 total digs to go along with 25 kills, while Stoodley had 30 digs and 38 kills. Sullivan has been very quietly having a great year, with 80 kills and 44 spikes. Sullivan’s great season has been shadowed because of great play from players such as Casey Stoodley. Stoodley, arguably the team’s MVP thus far, having a team leading 216 kills, 179 digs (2nd on the team to her sister, Danielle Stoodley (Salem, N.H.)) and a team leading 527 total amount of attacks.
The attitude of taking every game one at a time is some-thing that Head Coach Chris Kilmer has done all year, and this has been quite evident over the past couple of matches. Despite being down early in a couple of sets at the Wildcat Tournament, Kilmer was confident in his team’s ability to comeback. “I was especially happy with our late-game determination” said Kilmer. “We had big comebacks late in the third and fourth sets, which made the victory even more rewarding.”
Being down in any sport is obviously not uncommon in sports. Being able to comeback, though, is crucial, not only to a team’s record, but also to their psyche. With Plymouth being able to come back against UMass Dartmouth (who is also in the same conference as Plymouth), they should feel confident about beating anyone that gets in their way.
As far as the match on Tuesday night went, sophomore Allie Jones (Canton, Mass.) had a game-high 20 kills while Casey Stoodley added to her impressive season with an
additional 16 kills. After winning the first two sets of the match (31-29 and 28-26 respectively), the Panthers lost the third set (24-26), but regained their composure to win the 4th set 28-26. The Panthers had to work in all four sets though, as they were down 13-5 at one point in the second set. The comeback was on after they went on a 14-6 run, but the Panthers ultimately
squeaked the crucial second set out.The Panthers get a little bit of a break before their next
match, as they traveled to Springfield College in Massachusetts to participate in the Tom Hay Invitational tonight and tomor-row. With the way that the Panthers have played the last couple of matches, the question might be who is going to stop them?
PSU Men's and Women's Soccer Fall to Keene State
Both Panther soccer programs lost to rival Keene State on Saturday, October 1st. The women’s team lost to the Owls 2-0. Despite the loss, senior Goalkeeper Angelina LaBroad (Hampton, N.H.) managed to have a ten-save game. Junior Brittany Croteau and Freshmen Alex Haley scored the goals for Keene State. Keene State put 12 shots on goal compared to Plymouth’s 4 shots. The Lady Pan-thers made some noise in the second half, but just couldn’t find the back of the net. This loss brought the team to a 3-6 overall record and 0-3 record in the Little East confer-ence. Their next conference game is in Plymouth tomorrow against Southern Maine.
The men’s soccer team was defeated by the Owls on Saturday as well, 4-0. Keene State’s Bryce Lawler, Danny Silverman, Joe Senecal, and Nick Greenwood notched in the goals for the Owls. Plymouths Jake Sjoberg (Linkoping, Sweden) had a nice shot on net that Keene’s goalie Michael Kettermen made a great save on. Despite the loss, Head Coach Rob Wright thought his team showed quality stuff. “We played some of our best soccer of the season from box to box, and they struggled to keep up with us in the central area of the field. The difference was that they found a way to score some excellent goals, while for all our quality build up, we couldn’t get the ball in the net.” The loss put the Panthers at 1-8 on the season and 0-3 in conference play. Coach Wright looks to regroup and recharge for future play. “Hopefully, we can get healthy, work on some technical and tactical things, and head back into conference play at Southern Maine next Saturday.”
Andrew StephensFor the Clock
CLOCK PHOTO / JACOB GAGNON.
CLOCK PHOTO / ADAM DI FILIPPE
SCORE BOX: Plymouth Men's 0 Keene State 4
Plymouth Women's 0 Keene State 2