CayugaCollegian

THE

collegian@cayuga-cc.eduThe Voice of Cayuga Community College Students for more than 50 years Vol. 56 Issue 21 May 5, 2008

By Meghan Rindfleisch, Staff Writer

President Larson: “A Man of Integrity”PHOTO BY BEN BOLDING

SGO Candidate Controversy

Marventano Recovering; Searle Sentenced to 1-3 Years in Prison

Jay A. Searle, the Marcellus resi-dent who struck Officer William Marventano with his vehicle, was sentenced to 1-3 years in state pris-on in court April 28 after pleading

guilty to first-degree vehicu-lar assault and driving while i n t o x i c a t e d , both are felony charges. Mar-ventano, of Au-burn, attended the sentencing.

This was Searle’s second DWI conviction.

It has been over three months since Marventano, a Skaneateles police officer and chief law enforce-ment officer at Cayuga Community College, suffered severe injuries as a result of the winter accident. On January 10, Searle’s vehicle struck Marventano’s Chrysler Sebring at the intersection of Lee Mulroy Road and Bishop Hill Road in Marcellus. Despite wearing a seatbelt, Marven-tano was ejected from his vehicle and sustained multiple serious in-juries and was airlifted to Univer-sity Hospital. His wife, Debbie, also suffered injuries yet was released from Crouse Hospital that same night. Searle’s blood-alcohol level that night was 0.28. He was treated

at Community General Hospital for injuries.

Marventano spent time in the intensive care unit after enduring severe head, leg, and rib injuries.

He was put into a medically in-duced coma and was on a respira-tor for about two weeks while at his stay at Uni-versity Hospital, according to Of-ficer Scott Shaft, a public safety officer at CCC. Shaft also states

that Marventano is suffering ver-tigo and recently had an operation on his thumb. “He really hopes to be back for the fall semester,” Shaft stated. “He’s working hard at his re-covery—attending physical therapy about three times a week.”

According to Central New York News and Beyond reporter Jim O’Hara, Searle apologized to Mar-ventano during his conviction. “I hope for a full and fast recovery,” Searle was quoted saying.

“For him, it’s just about taking it one day at a time,” Shaft said. “He’s getting better every day.”

The Marventanos had no com-ment at the time of press.

Jay Searle

If you happened to hear bagpipes throughout the college around 11am on Friday the 25th, that was a sym-bol of new beginnings at Cayuga. Dr. Daniel Paul Larson was officially presented as the President of Cayu-ga Community College. Previous to being at Cayuga, Dr. Larson was most recently at Mohawk Valley CC as Vice President of Instruction since 2003. He was also at three other colleges serving as VP of Academic Affairs, Dean of Arts and Sciences and began his career as a Professor of Music.

Dr. Larson grew up in Jamestown, New York and received his Doctor title when he completed his Doc-tor of Musical Arts degree in Voice Performance at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He also holds

a Master of Music degree in Voice Performance and Literature and a Bachelor of Music degree in Applied Music-Voice from the University of Rochester (New York). With this extensive musical background the singing of the National Anthem at the Inauguration ceremony seemed like a duet between Dr. Larson and student Martha Reutlinger. The In-vocation for the ceremony was given by Bishop S. Marc Clay of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. An interesting fact that was stated in the opening was that 93 Cayuga Alums currently work on campus. The turn out of alumni and respect-ed persons of state was incredible. There were several greetings from different prominent speakers. One of the more memorable greetings was from Jeffrey Hoffman, Execu-tive Director of the College Founda-tion. He could be considered the Dr. Seuss of the day. His speech rhymed and flowed exactly like a fun Dr. Se-uss poem with references to a large number of professors throughout the college and some specific habits they are known for. It was a fun welcome with a humorous lift.

Richard Pappas, President of National-Louis University in Chicago, spoke in the highest regard of his good friend Dr. Larson. He told us

By Martha Reutlinger, Staff Writer

PHOTO BY BEN BOLDING

Chief William Marventano

SGO President Garret Komarisky in Inaugurational ProcessionPHOTO BY BEN BOLDING

CONTINUED PAGE FOUR

This year’s presidential race is a doozy. Already there are plenty of scandals, including discussions of can-didates’ GPAs and a controversy over adding new candidates after the nom-ination deadline had already passed. Now there is word that the nomina-tion deadline has been extended and present candidates’ grades may be deemed sufficient.

According to a source who wishes not to be identified, one candidate seeking a SGO office, entered the race and was running a strong campaign with plenty of student support. But, as it turns out, the SGO eventually discovered his grades were insuffi-cient. The candidate was told by the board that he had to drop out of the race. The SGO’s Constitution, as in-terpreted by a source says, “The rule in the current Constitution reads that the president shall, at the time of the application, be maintaining an accu-mulative 2.5 GPA, and be a full-time student.”

The source says a person associ-ated with the SGO suggested that the deadline for candidates to file be ex-tended, that way the candidate with questionable grades would have time to improve their GPA. SGO advisor,

Norman Lee, agreed to extend the deadline. As of press time, the new deadline for all applications to be filed was extended to Thursday, May 1.

Critics of the candidate filing ex-tension say there was already “an applicant for every position with ad-equate GPAs. So why extend the dead-line when there already other appli-cants for the president spot?”

The source says the candidate in question was able to raise their GPA because their spring semester grades were submitted last week in time for the candidate to re-apply under the new deadline. However, critics are complaining that “grades aren’t offi-cial until the end of the semester.”

Also, critics are unhappy that the extension was permitted, citing pre-vious elections without enough ad-equate candidates. There is already a case on the books this semester when the SGO’s trustee was relieved of of-fice due to his GPA.

The source says another candidate has now entered the race well beyond the original application deadline of April 4th. Critics say if the SGO had followed its own Constitution…there would only be one viable candidate for president at this point.

By Andrew Brown, Staff Writer

www.CayugaCollegian.comwww.CayugaCollegian.com

OPINIONS

PAGE TWO

The Cayuga Collegian welcomes letters from its readers. Submissions must be in a word document on a PC formatted disc or emailed. Submissions may be edited for content or length. Submissions must include your name, address and daytime phone number. All letters to the editor are copied exactly and do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the Collegian office, its staff or advisors. All letters are simply the opinions of the writers themselves.

The Cayuga Collegian is published on announced publication dates during regular semesters at Cayuga Community College, 197 Franklin Street, Auburn, NY 13021. Our phone number is 315-255-1743. The Cayuga Collegian is funded by CCC’s Faculty-Student Association through student activity fees. Opinions expressed in columns, news stories, features, interviews or letters to the editor are not necessarily those of the college administration, faculty, staff or students at CCC. The Cayuga Collegian is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press.

Editorial BoardJESSICA MILES, Editor in ChiefBEN BOLDING, Chief PhotographerJESSE CASES, Sports Editor MARY G. MERRITT, Advisor

StaffKathleen Sperduti, Fulton CorrespondentMartha Reutlinger, Staff Writer Kara Kinney, ColumnistAndrew Brown, Staff Writer Meghan Rindfleisch, Staff WriterNatasha King, Staff Writer Kevin Cool, Staff WriterKevin Donovan, Staff WriterStephanie Quinn, Music Reviewer

The Earth is not your ashtray...

Put your butt where it belongs!

Meet Don Brewer...Smoking: A Habit that Kills

www.CayugaCollegian.com

It has been proved that smoking causes preventable cancers and even death but still people do it knowing all the warnings. Smoke Free New York came about in July 2003 which prevented smoking at work places, bars and restaurants. And by March 2004 air quality, business tax receipts, employment in businesses and support for the law were all up. Although there has been progress since the law was passed it has not decreased the number of smokers.

Smokers can still be found anywhere and their bad habit effects everyone. Even here on campus there is a group of students who smoke right outside the doors in between the buildings, especially at the door entering the main building. Non-smokers usually have to walk right through the cloud of smoke. Walking through clouds of cigarette smoke is disgusting to those who don’t smoke like myself. It makes your clothes smell, it makes you smell, and you also get the joy of second hand smoke which is said to be more deadly than

first hand smoke. Polluting is another issue with

smoking. Although there are baskets for students to throw their buds into after they’re done smoking, you can see all the buds laying in the grass and side walks as you walk from building to building. It absolutely disgusts me knowing that people are willing to just throw their ‘trash’ on the ground like that and not to think twice about it.

Smoking on the campus just doesn’t affect those who are smoking, but effects everyone who attends or works at the campus. There should be stricter rules on campus that meet the needs of both smokers and non-smokers. A rule simple as not smoking so many feet from the buildings would solve many of the issues. It would be unrealistic for me to say to ban smoking in general, but just to improve the conditions now would make many people including myself feel better.

-Rachel Tomlin

“It’s the teacher’s fault I am getting bad grades he/she hates me!” “It’s my high school’s fault I am failing, they didn’t teach me anything!” “I don’t care that I’m getting all D’s, I just want to get the hell out of here.” Need I dare continue, or do you all know what I’m saying? The students who try to justify why they are failing or barely passing most of their classes. Some of you might not only know that type of person, you might be that person!

I will shoot down all the biggest excuses; “I have no time to get good grades!” I am here to tell you that you can be a full-time student, study the recommended amount, sleep the recommended amount, plus have a full-time job and still have “time” to do others stuff.

There is 168 hours in a week. The recommended amount of sleep for a week 49 hours; taking 15 credits plus recommended study time to get “B’s” or “A’s”- 40 hours, and working a full-time job 40 hours. So, what does that mean? That means you can sleep, work a full-time job, take 15 credits, plus have a full time job and still have time to do other things.

I’m going to tell you a story about a kid who blamed every one but himself. He was a student who did horribly in school. He barley got through elementary school. His middle school years went just as badly. He was expelled from two different schools while only getting to high school because he spent his 8th grade school year in an “alternative school”.

He did do better in high school years, though, because he only got expelled from one school during those years! This guy never finished high school, he was expelled his

junior year and never went back. Once again, it was not his fault. The guy blamed it on everyone and anyone.

He got his G.E.D and then went to Cayuga Community College. The kid dropped out within one month and started traveling around for the next two years, doing nothing but scrubbing floors and waiting tables.

Through his entire life, he blamed every negative thing on other people. It was not until he was 20 did he realize he does have an effect on the outcome of his life. He stopped blaming others and stepped up to the plate. He realized

he was going nowhere in life so tried college again. He went back and re-took the English placement exam and aced it. He stopped blaming the teachers of his past for why he got bad grades, and he stopped making excuses. He spent his time studying instead of watching TV. He didn’t skip class because he was tired. He got up every morning, took notes in every class, and studied for every test. He’s gotten perfect attendance and a 4.0 G.P.A. for the last two of the 3 semesters, and he’s on track to make it 3 out of the last 4 semesters. He doesn’t blame society or the world when something bad happens. Not only has he changed his locus of control, he literally changed the destiny of his life. He now has the opportunity to go to Cornell.

This change happened because someone started to blame himself for the mistakes in his life…and he stopped blaming everyone else. And if you are telling yourself, I’ve never met somebody like this…now you have. Hi, my name is Don Brewer and it’s nice to meet you.

A Motivational Essay by a Candidate Running for SGO President

Don BrewerSGO President Candidate

Anyone would think being a college with sports teams there would be a field to practice on. Cayuga Community College, however, does not fall under that category. Why, you ask? This is a question asked by all the athletes at the college. Cayuga’s sports teams are at a great disadvantage. Instead of having a regulation field to practice on, the lacrosse team, for example has had to fight for practice hours in the gym or hope that the other schools in the community are not already occupied by their teams. This is frustrating for not only the athletes, but the coaches, parents, and fans that go to support these unprepared teams. It is discouraging to watch this happen every year. Not to mention the new players that join the team do not

Disadvantages for Athleteshave experience on a regulation field until their first game. Now that just doesn’t sound fair to me. How can our teams be expected to perform their best on the playing field if they don’t even have proper practicing conditions? By paying to go to school as an athlete you want to have everything you need to succeed on and off the field. Not having a field to practice on means not being able to perform your best. Not being prepared and losing games makes the athletes lose self confidence, which may have an affect on their ability to perform in the classroom as well. The college should put as much into its sports as it does its academics so everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.

-Elysia Moore

As I stood on the third floor of the school in the Tech wing and looked out the window on a beautiful sunny day…I was absolutely disgusted. There is an unbelievable amount of cigarette butts on the ground, and this isn’t the only place this is a problem. I am surprised the smokers are not embarrassed they make the school look this way. It gives them all a bad name whether they throw them on the ground or not. Polluting the air with cigarette smoke does not give you the right to litter. With our economy going through a crisis and global warming at an all time high I thought everyone would be doing what they could to save the earth.

NO BUTTS ABOUT IT!Apparently the smokers think they’re above that. The school is generous enough by giving them more than enough places for their filthy habit. However, they still do not respect the no littering policy. The school should enforce this policy and if the littering continues the smokers should have to go elsewhere. I’m sure they don’t throw all their trash on the ground, so why are cigarette butts any different from other trash. They’re not! If you’re paying to go to school someplace don’t you want it to be clean? By throwing their butts on the ground it makes them just as dirty as their habit.

-Elysia Moore

www.CayugaCollegian.comwww.CayugaCollegian.com collegian@cayuga-cc.edu PAGE THREE

Message from the Collegian StaffA Fond Farewell...

www.CayugaCollegian.com collegian@cayuga-cc.edu

The time has come for me to say goodbye. I can’t believe two years have already gone by. It seems just like yesterday when I was at orientation for Cayuga. I look back on my time here and can’t help but miss it.

I never thought I would be writing for the paper let alone being the editor-in- chief. There have been many people that have come into the office and asked for help with their article and it’s great when I’m the one they need.

I started out not wanting all the responsibility of being editor-in-chief. I just wanted to be a staff writer. Hell, I didn’t even want to be assistant editor. But anyway, I still took the position.

I have had a great time being in this position. Not because of the power, but because of all the great people I met. Between all the writers as well as staff members I have had contact with.

The greatest of all is Mary Merritt. Not only has she been a great advisor, mentor, and teacher; but a great friend. Mary has been there for me when ever I needed her, no matter what time or what it was. She was my sponsor for PTK and so much more. I have had a great time this past year with her. I could never ask for a better advisor or mentor.

The staff members I have met are also great. I have had to deal with cleaver girls, obnoxious boys, and

people that are never there, but I still had a great time. I want to start with Tasha. I was skeptical at first about her. She really didn’t show interest but I still gave her a chance. This spring she finally came through and she was in the office all the time. She caught on quickly and wanted

to learn. I am glad I am leaving here with the knowledge she will become the great editor I know she will be.

Jesse Cases was just great to work with, especially with his crazy attitude and he need to always be right. Although the two of us have our differences, I couldn’t ask for a better sports writer. Even if he did not make it to all the games, he still had

an article for me. Anyone that knows Jesse knows he has that obnoxious way about him. He is so stubborn but great at what he does.

Then there was Andy. Andy has a hard time paying attention and showing up to things on time, let alone at all. Andy is the sweetie of the paper this semester. Even though he was not an official paid staff member, he was still great to have. I dealt with a lot from Andy but in the end it all was worth it.

I’m going to miss everyone at CCC especially my Collegian staff and the ones I leave behind. I could never ask for a better staff or a better advisor. I also want to thank everyone that contributed to the paper. Thanks and remember keep it classy Cayuga.

Jessica MilesGraduating Collegian Editor-in-chief

A Hearty Hello...This semester has been by far the

most interesting. Granted it is only my second, I can not imagine any other semester being like this one. I had the opportunity to work with this year’s amazing staff and learn the ropes that led me to where I am today; I am writing as next year’s Editor-in-chief.

I could not picture working without some of our staff members next year, but I do not have a choice in the matter. The current Editor-in-chief, Jess Miles, and our photographer Ben Bolding, are both leaving us. It has been a pleasure working with both of them and we all will miss them and what they have contributed to the paper, as well as to Cayuga Community College. I have worked closely with both Jess and Ben throughout the entire semester and have become good friends with them. It will be hard to see them leave.

The upcoming staff will include myself as Editor, Andy Brown as Assistant Editor, Jesse Cases as Sports Editor, Martha Reutlinger as Ad Manager, and Kenny Alnutt as

photographer. I am looking forward to continuing to work with this staff.

I am currently a Telcom major with a focus on radio broadcasting. I will be working as PSA Director at the radio station as well as Editor for the Collegian. It seems like quite a work load, but I am confident that I

can handle it. If you are

interested in writing for the paper, or in a position for the following year, please feel free to stop by the Collegian office and talk to us; or even just stop by to say ‘hi.’ You may also want to consider signing up for Mary Merritt’s Telcom 204 Journalism Practicum class and earn credit for writing for the Cayuga Collegian. This is a great opportunity to write

for the Collegian, and still earn credit toward your degree.

I feel this coming year will be an excellent year and we will have a great staff putting the paper together. We have big shoes to fill, but we have the ability to do it and I believe we will. So, until next semester, have a great summer everyone!

Natasha KingCollegian Editor-in-chief

New Collegian Websitewww.cayuga collegian.com

A Motivational Essay by a Candidate Running for SGO President

www.CayugaCollegian.comwww.CayugaCollegian.comPAGE FOUR

Student Government Organization presidential candidate Chris Braun has high hopes for CCC students and the drive to back them up. Wanting to utilize the old college book store and encourage communication between the Auburn and Fulton campus are just a few examples of what Braun wants to do if elected president. Fixing the unease between the two campuses, however, is the main issue on Braun’s mind. “Some students are anti-Auburn or anti-Fulton and we need to put an end to it. We can’t have any more of this.” He expects to visit the Fulton campus frequently in the event he should win the office of president.

A Closer look at a Presidential Candidate: Chris BraunBy Meghan Rindfleisch, Staff Writer

The current Judo Club president believes that his experience in the SGO student senate will help him as president. “The true power of the SGO lies within the senate, and people don’t realize that,” Braun said. “Working with the senate and knowing how it works helps you understand student rights.” He was a former SGO senator and has consistently worked with the SGO board unofficially for the past two years.

Braun also hopes to increase student involvement in SGO: “I’m willing to listen to students’ ideas, no matter what their opinion.” He says his true dream is to one day

have a suggestion box for students outside of the SGO office. Braun also anticipates increasing his office hours if he becomes the new SGO president in order to make himself more available to students.

Enjoying the freedom of his Liberal Arts major, Braun has also decided to pursue a degree in Administrations & Corrections next semester. After graduating from CCC, he plans to transfer into SUNY ESF in Syracuse. Yet, when it comes to college, grades are not the only thing on Braun’s mind. “College is about the overall experience and figuring out what you like,” he replied.Chris Braun

SGO President Candidate

SGO: A Year in Review by Garret Komarisky By Garret Komarisky, Contributing Writer & SGO President

The Student Government Organization (SGO) of Cayuga Community College has had their work cut for them this past year. This year, the Student Government left the organization of events such as craft fairs and talent shows to the Student Activity’s Board. In past years, SGO has contributed with these small scale events and even added such things as dodge ball and volleyball, but this year, we thought big!

This year the Student Government Organization opened the Washington D.C. trip, which is usually exclusive to Student Senators, up to the entire student body. This was in the spirit of allowing students who wanted to join in the fun a chance to view the nation’s capital. It was a beautiful weekend in Washington and a lot of fun, I encourage all who can to partake next semester!

Along with this student centered spirit, SGO is planning another large scale trip this semester May 10th and

11th to NYC. This again is open to all students and has been subsidized by the Student Government and Student Activity Board to reduce the cost per student to $65!

Our focus on the importance of student’s at Cayuga Community College doesn’t stop at these large trips. We have encouraged the emergence of two new clubs on the Auburn campus and a branch club on the Fulton campus. The Chess club and Record club have been strongly embraced on the Auburn campus, while the much anticipated Nursing club is sure to be on the right foot for next years nursing students, modeled after the ever growing Auburn Nursing club.

These clubs are an essential part of our college as they offer a way for a multitude of students from differing majors a chance to come together for fellowship and friendship enjoying a subject they all have in common. They also play

an important role in another key focus of this year’s SGO, the Student Government constitution, as they have contributed many necessary additions and corrections.

All and all, this year has been a great one for the Student Government, displayed through many successful blood drives, including this past one, which included an iPod, which was raffled to a lucky donor! The Student Government helped maintain the $77 activity fee during negotiations with the banner system and supported the idea of a means for students to access their funds on campus, such as the new ATM machine.

With elections coming up in the next few days and graduation shortly after that, we are sad to see all of the faces we have come to enjoy go, but are certain that CCC is heading down the right path and with the right support from it’s students, will maybe even put Auburn back on the map!!

Garret KomariskySGO President

that when Larson had worked at National-Louis University he was voted outstanding administrator and employee of the year and had only been working there a short period of time. In his closing statement referring to Dr. Larson he said, “If he can not get through to you, then he will sing to you.”

When it came time for Dr. Larson to give his Inaugural Address, everyone had been relaxed by the good statements and the laughs of old memories. His speech seemed as though it

President Larson...CONTINUED FROM FRONT

CCC Student Martha Reutlinger sings the National Anthem at the ceremony.PHOTO BY BEN BOLDING

could go on forever, but Dr. Larson stated every intention he had for the coming years at Cayuga. He also warned that if we were to meet his family members in attendance that all the stories we would hear were purely fiction. As he quoted Robert Frost’s “the road less traveled,” we realized that he would like to take Cayuga down a path of new beginnings and great opportunities. His closing statement was “We have accomplished much and much more is yet to come… We have only begun.”

CCC student Jennifer Tissot was not born blind. She acquired the ailment R.P.O., Retina Operathy Pre-maturity, which is the deterioration of the retina that leads to blindness. It happened to Tissot in 1994 when she was in the second grade.

Jen, as she likes to be called, grew up in Moravia N.Y. and was home-schooled prior to her condition.

She attended public school for a while to learn how to read and write in Braille. She also learned how to use computer programs that assist her in her studies today. She returned to home school and received her high school diploma.

Jen is 22 years old and resides at Lattimore Hall. She says she enjoys living there very much. Her roommate is Tara Updike who is a Resident Counselor for the Hall. Jen is independent, determined and motivated. In order for her to attend CCC, she needed to get an advance layout of the campus, which took her three months to to learn. She says it took a few weeks to find her classrooms on her own. She says there is help from students to assist her if she needs it at times.

The computer is an asset to her because it can scan her books and translate the text into synthesized speech and even print them in Braille. “I use specialized software that scans the books, it’s called Jaws,” Jen said.

Jen says she is always willing to share

Meet CCC Student: Jennifer TissotBy Kevin Cool, Staff Writer

some of her most treasured memories of sight. She says one of her memories is of sunset, and finds it to be the most beautiful. Jen said her favorite color is,” yellow.” She said,”I almost think the color yellow even if it doesn’t look good on me…” She is, “Mesmerized,” by the color and its brightness. She does have a vivid memory of sight.

Before school became a priority, Jen worked at a Subway restaurant, the Cortland S.P.C.A. and the Pet Depot. She has a cat, collects figurines and enjoys music. The types of music she enjoys are Rock, Jazz, Electronica, and Native American, and she plays the drums by ear. Jen would like to “play in a group if she gets the chance”. She did play at the Auburn Public Theater on a couple of Tuesdays and was very excited to have the chance to play out for the first time with some friends.

Her favorite movie is “Back to the Future” with her favorite actor Michael J. Fox.

Each day Jen catches the bus on her own carries her books and computer to school.

What drives her? How does she do it? It’s her determination and desire to be independent that does it. She is a Liberal Arts focusing on creative writing and advertising. Her sight on the future is to have a positive productive outlook with the desire to succeed.

www.CayugaCollegian.comwww.CayugaCollegian.com collegian@cayuga-cc.edu PAGE FIVE

As technology is evolving and improving schools such as Cayuga Community College are taking full advantage of the situation. The majority of the students currently attending can remember doing homework and tests using pen and paper. But as time passes the pen and paper we all remember using is becoming a distant memory.

My Math Lab, a series of online math courses, is being used by many of the math professors here at the college. The program allows students to do their homework, quizzes, and even tests online. But many students have strong opinions on the program both bad and good. “For me it’s a lot more helpful when a teacher sits down and explains the material to me rather than trying it for myself on a computer. I like the one on one you get from a teacher,” said first year student Sara Fraher.

The program includes examples

Spring is a time for nicer weather, for the shorts to come out of the bottom of your drawers, and for school to come to an end. And for college students such as yourselves, your friends are coming home from their respective colleges. But, to get to this point of almighty happiness, all college students have to undergo the most stressful part of the semester: Finals Week.

So what people do is you prepare for these finals, they study, stay up late, and they stress. They complain until their jaws are ready to fall off about how they’re going to fail, and how they need to study for the next week straight in order to pass. But then there are the ready test-takers, the non-procrastinators, that study prior to the night before the test.

When asked how he prepares for his finals, Ryan “Pun” Foley, of Cayuga, explained that he “[goes] over all of my homework, and I go to the ASC and I get help on questions that I don’t know. I get a solid night’s sleep and I get a hearty breakfast that includes my mom’s famous omelette.” That seems like

A Closer look at a Presidential Candidate: Chris BraunThree members of the Cayuga Community College class

of 2008 have received the highest recognition given annually by the State University of New York to students across the 64 SUNY campuses. Among the 275 statewide recipients of this year’s SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence are: Jan Elizabeth Baum and Sherry L. Eichmann, both residents of Fulton enrolled at the Fulton campus. Kathleen E. Brown, an Auburn resident attending the Auburn campus.

Statewide, the grade point average of the 2008 award recipients averages 3.75 out of a possible 4.0. Besides recognizing outstanding grades, the Chancellor’s Award honors students for significant accomplishments in the campus or community. Nominations from the campuses are reviewed by a SUNY committee before final selections are made by the Chancellor.

“This year’s recipients of the Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence are among the most gifted and talented students in the entire SUNY system,” said SUNY Interim Chancellor John B. Clark in announcing the awards. “I congratulate them, their families and the campuses for all their achievements.”

The Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence was created 11 years ago by the State University of New York.

Three CCC Students Win SUNY Chancellor’s Award

Jan Elizabeth Baum Kathleen E. Brown Sherry L. Eichmann

Recycling is one of the biggest concerns on the minds of many people around our campus these days. President Daniel Larson has gotten a work-group together to discuss our recycling habits as well as other issues, including energy usage and safeguarding information that we throw away. Larson says the group first met about six weeks ago, and has met a couple more times since then. He also says that the purpose of the group is to come up with a good recycling process that is beneficial as well as educational.

This fall semester they are hoping for a new recycling process that is “more formal and helps people stop and think about what they are generating and make better choices” Larson states.

Larson believes that unless there is a pushing factor behind students and many other people, we will not recycle even though we should. “By fall we will be ready to do a better job at recycling” Larson says. The Fulton staff does

Finals: The Final CountdownBy Andrew Brown, Staff Writer

an average preparation.Mark Ringwood, also of this great

college, explained that he “[finds] a well-lit area, free from distractions and noise. I put on some music, some quality Phish, some good, subdued music to set the tone. I then lay out my books to make everything well organized, and I do work.” That was a little unorthodox, at least more than Ryan’s methods.

But the golf team’s Chris Querns described the most unconventional method of preparing for a test. “I do nothing. I chill, I shoot some hoops, play some ping-pong, anything that’ll get my mind off of the test. I go in blind, well not totally blind, because I will have the material in my memory from the whole semester. But I don’t study, or cram...I just get my mind off the tests, get a good breakfast, grab my number two pencils, and I’m ready for my finals.”

So whether you study a lot, or not at all, everyone has their own methods of preparing for finals. All there is to be said about this years finals now is…good luck!

Technology and LearningBy Rachel Tomlin, Contributing Writer

on how to complete each problem and also has a “Help Me Solve This” button which goes step by step with students on how to do it. “I feel like I am not learning anything because I am tempted to just use the help me solve this button instead of figuring it out on my own,” said Sarah Casselman. She goes on to say, “Sometimes the teacher teaches it differently than the program. It gets confusing.”

Students who use My Math Lab for tests are also having difficulties but also like it better. Sara Fraher stated “Questions can be tricky and there is no partial credit. But the great thing about it is that I’m not timed so I can take as long as I need. All in all it’s a great tool to use but it also all depends on the student too.” Many students can agree that the program is great to use, but they can also agree that there are many kinks that need to be worked out.

GOT PAPER?By Natasha King, Editor-in-chief

their recycling individually.One of our biggest concerns

should be white paper because of the abundance that we use. Plus, we should be concerned with what information we throw away. Anyone can get a hold on that paper and use it to their advantage.

Brian Henry believes that recycling is important because “it helps to keep animal habitats safe; decreasing the rate of extinction in the animal kingdom, and it also keeps the ozone layer from becoming too polluted and increasing the risk of destroying our earth”.

We students have more of an impact on the future of our planet than we realize. By recycling now, we can preserve the earth we live on forever.

“Students have a stronger sense for responsibility for this world than in previous years” Larson declared. “Lead by example, because we are literally stewards of this world”.

Raising gasoline prices are causing panic among Cayuga Community College students this spring. As Cayuga County en-ters prime travel season, many students are not only concerned about gas prices today, but the price at the pump in the months to come.

“I won’t be surprised if it reaches $4.20 in the summer, considering the fast increase in price now,” said Dusty Archambo, a criminal justice major.

According to NewYorkStat-eGasPrices.com, the average price of gas in the state on April 22 was $3.63, compared to the $2.96 it was one year ago. Yet, that’s no surprise, considering that the Associated Press report-ed that oil reached an all-time high price April 22: $118.05 per barrel. As of April 22, the Kwik Fill on West Genesee Street, lo-cated near Tops Friendly Mar-kets, was the cheapest location in Auburn to buy gas, with $3.55 per gallon.

Students are finding that holding steady jobs and making money are essential for keeping their gas tanks full, especially considering that the majority of

the student population drives to campus. Yet, for students with fixed incomes or in between jobs, paying for text books and tuition can be hard enough. Sam Mar-zano, a freshman, is finding it dif-ficult to get around with high gas prices while she is in between jobs. “I’m like, ‘Great. The bus is starting to sound really good right about now.’”

“It’s hard for college students to pay a lot for gas,” said Emilee Salato. “We’re being gipped and somebody is making money off of us.” Salato believes that since Americans have such a high stan-dard of living, increases in gaso-line prices hit harder on their minds and wallets. “Just think—in Europe, people are paying much more for gas.”

Yet some students hope that raising prices will push alterna-tive fuel sources onto the scene. “I can definitely see [alternative fuel sources] in the future. It’s something that’s got to happen in the next few years, or else, we’re in trouble.”

GOT GAS?By Meghan Rindfleisch, Staff Writer

www.CayugaCollegian.comwww.CayugaCollegian.comPAGE SIX

I interviewed Tim Schmidt, captain of the Cayuga Men’s Lacrosse team. They were up for a rough season after losing 12 players from last years team. Elysia Moore: How many returning players do you have this year?Tim Schmidt: We have seven returnees.EM: What position do you play? TS: Mostly midfield but I also play attack and defense.EM: Wow, it sounds like you’re a pretty important asset to the team. Who are your captains?TS: Myself, Tim Schmidt, Pat Cameron, Nate North, and Zach

SPARTAN SPORTS

The Spartans of Cayuga Community College ended their 2007-2008 lacrosse the same way it started, with a blowout loss to a highly nationally ranked opponent. This time the opponent being the Vikings of Hudson Valley Community College. The 20-1 loss to the Vikings came after the two other losses the team suffered just after accumulating their first win of the season with three games left. Goalie Pat Cameron scored again to raise his goal total for the season to 2 in the loss to the Vikings.

After the win vs. Dean College of Massachusetts on April 19th 2008, the team traveled to Jefferson CC and SUNY Delhi before the game at Hudson Valley CC. The team, however, failed to leave both hostile environments with a victory. Leaving the Spartans with just 1 win on the season compared to 14 losses.

Although the team lost most of their games, it cannot be said that they ever lost hope, or gave up. The team continued to play hard all season long even though it was established early that the team would not be a great success for the season. The

Spartan Lax Men LoseBy Jesse Cases, Sports Writer

team played close games vs. several teams such as Genesee CC, Finger Lakes CC, Tompkins-Cortland CC, Mohawk Valley CC, and Mercyhurst North East. So it cannot be said that the team did not have opportunities to win over the course of the season.

Even though altogether as a team the Spartans did not flourish the field, there were several performances on the field this year which will not be soon remembered. Nate North and Dan Hunt undoubtedly made several on field contributions to the team throughout the course of the season.

It will be hard to forget the two stars combining for 16 goals and 11 assists. North and Hunt are both among the nations finest in goals scored, assists dished out and total points. Goalie Pat Cameron is also ranked nationally in saves made. With several players returning next season, the Spartans look to be a contender; although the team will miss the performances of All American Nate North, Hunt will be returning for his sophomore season and the team will look to him for leadership on the field.

Meet Lax Captain SchmidtBy Elysia Moore, ContributingWriter

Waby. We’re all sophomores.EM: What would you say is your teams’ strong point?TS: Our attacks, Nate, Dan Hunt, and myself.EM: What do you need to work on?TS: Our defense, big time.EM: How long have you played lacrosse?TS: I’ve played 8 years. EM: Out of your eight years, what’s the best advice you’ve ever been given by a coach?TS: “Play every game like it’s your last.” – Mark Fietta Cayuga Men’s Lacrosse head coach.EM: What advice would you like to leave for the returning players next year?TS: Make sure you recruit, recruit, recruit.

To most students Bryan Howland is just another kid trying to earn an education. Out of school, Bryan is one of the most respected sprint car drivers on dirt. After twelve years of racing sprint cars, his nickname; ‘Flyan Bryan Howland’ seems to fit him perfect. It has been a long road, one normally not taken by an average teenager. When kids are out having fun on weekends, his fun is on a dirt track driving over one hundred twenty miles an hour.

After traveling down south to drive asphalt cars this past year, Bryan has found himself once again in the seat of a sprint car. After undergoing a major surgery a few months ago, Howland was nervous as to whether he would be ready to get back in the seat of a dirt car this year. He traveled to Weedsport and went on the track for the first time this year for a few laps of practice.

CCC Student RacesBy Nick Flannigan, ContributingWriter

After just one lap, his talent for driving seemed to be right there in the seat with him.

Recently, Bryan traveled to Dundee for his first race of the season. After starting fifth in his heat, he knew he would have to drive hard if he wanted to qualify for the feature event. Bryan finished fourth in his heat, advancing one place which earned him a third place start in the major event of the evening.

With twenty five cars on such a small track it is very difficult to pass, but easily enough to get passed. After racing twenty five hard laps, Bryan managed to pull off a second place victory. With the jitters of the first race out of the way, Bryan is focused on having a strong season. For more information and race schedules, please log onto www.bryanhowland.com.

The Criminal Justice Society of Fulton cleaned up around the entire campus collecting 20 large bags of refuse on Saturday, April 19th.

Fulton Campus Clean-up

Fulton Chili Cook-OffFulton Chili Cook-Off winners, left to right: JoAnn Harris tied for 3rd place; Joyce Crandall tied for 3rd place; John Lamphere, CJ Society Advisor; Cathleen McColgin, 2nd place winner; Shauna O’Brien, 1st place winner; Jan Baum, CJ Society President

www.CayugaCollegian.comwww.CayugaCollegian.com collegian@cayuga-cc.edu PAGE SEVEN

All there is to be said is what a hit! This year’s Talent Show, hosted by Don Brewer, was indeed full of hidden talent. Full of strong voices, great instrument playing, and a hilarious comedic act, this talent show was one you definitely didn’t want to miss.

The judges for this years show consisted of Garret Komarisky, Tiffany Collinsworth, Felicia Wicklund, Brian “Buzz” Black, and Allie Watters. These judges didn’t have an easy task in picking the winners either, because every act followed with large applause and for some, an ovation. But there has to be some winners, so third place was taken by Mark Darling and Sheldon Furrs, and their self-written hit “Logical Goodnight.” Darling played the guitar and sang along with Furrs, who also made heads turn with his fabulous voice. Second place was awarded to Michelle Wright, and he rendition of singer Pink’s “Misery.” Wright set her tone early and made more than the right impression on

Since its humble beginnings of a pitched tent and congregation of 10 in 1939, the Auburn Alliance Church has been reaching out to its community to provide a place of worship. The church is now located up the hill from Walgreens on North Seward Ave in Auburn. The church was recently expanded to accommodate its growing construction. Larry and Janet Brown, the project leaders, say the 1.7 million dollar construction project began July 6, 2007 and is expected to be completed at the end of April. The church, which currently seats 220 people has an average congregation of 300, so it is obvious why the church is expanding. Larry Brown says the new massive platform in the new sanctuary is four feet longer than the stage at the Metropolitan Theatre in New York City where famous operas are held. He say the new house of worship will be able to hold 500 people under the five tons of sheetrock which was used on the ceiling alone.

However, setting aside the exciting and impressive addition, Janet Brown says the people of Auburn Alliance Church want this project to be seen not as an accomplishment, but as an opportunity to reach out to the

Harlequin Productions, the theatre group based at Cayuga Community College, has won cast, crew, and director awards from the Theatre Association of New York State for the recent comedy Dead Men Don’t Itch.

The John Arco play, a spoof of film-noir whodunits, premiered in March at the College’s Bisgrove Community Theatre. TANYS judge Arnie Galin, who attended the March 8 show, announced Roving Adjudicator Meritorious Achievement Awards for Mike DeForrest in acting, Robert Frame in direction, and Virginia Fennessy in scenic design. DeForrest

Fulton Chili Cook-Off

CCC Theatre Wins Awardsis a Cayuga Community College student; Frame oversees the college’s theatre program; and Fennessy is an English teacher at Fowler High School in Syracuse.

Galin credited the play with “the mood and the feel of a 1940 murder mystery,” adding that “DeForrest as. . . lead detective [was] a cross between Bogart and Mike Hammer. His balance of humor and great timing moved this production. . . . Fennessy’s stylish and practical sets were perfect.”

The awards will be presented this November in Batavia, during the 2008 TANYS Festival.

CCC Talent Show a Hit!By Andrew Brown, Staff Writer

both the crowd and the judges with her stunning, and powerful voice. And first place went to Brie O’Connell and her guitar, with her self-written song “Fade.” Like Darling, O’Connell played and sang at the same time, but said, “After awhile it’s really not that hard at all to play and sing at the same time.”

“I couldn’t believe I won it, I didn’t think I had a chance going up against some of the amazing acts that performed,” said O’Connell of the show. When asked about the standing ovation she had received she said she didn’t even notice it. That’s what adrenaline can do for you.

O’Connell picked the song “Fade,” which was written about a year ago, out of her other 13 songs that she has written because she felt that it’s “the most worthy of becoming a single, it’s fresh, and catchy.” She attributes her now three years of playing, and songwriting, skills to Bill Kirby, who taught her how to play simple chords and songs.

Brianna O’Connell received a standing ovation at the CCC Talent Show on the Auburn Campus. She won first place with a performance of her original song.

PHOTO BY BEN BOLDING

Transforming Buildings, Transforming HeartsBy Stephanie Quinn, Staff Writer

community. The building committee for this new project did adopt a vision statement that is as follows, “[That this would be] A church that is an integral part of the congregation’s lives not just on Sundays, but everyday. Also, it would be a place of spiritual growth, fellowship, and refuge from the world. The facilities should be inviting to those unfamiliar with church so that the congregation can show them the love of God and the benefits of living in accordance with God’s Word.”. There is an Open House planned for Saturday, April 26 from 1:00-4:00 in which any and all are welcome to take a tour of the new facilities and learn more about what the church has to offer specifically for you. There will also be a formal dedication on Sunday May 18 in which there will be catered hors d’oeuvres and the President of the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination, Gary M. Benedict, will be an honored guest.“Whether you have enough people to fill an entire row of seats or just one, this church is making room for everyone with activities from kids clubs, to music groups, to senior citizen small groups. We want it to a comfortable, safe and loving place for all.”

PHOTO BY BEN BOLDING

In Auburn the name Fight Night Mansion is synonymous with being scared. For the past 20 years A.P.E. Productions has put on a haunted house every October. The director

of A.P.E. Productions, Mark Purcell, says plans are already u n d e r w a y for next year. Purcell says he and his staff spends all year dreaming up ideas and working on

sound effects. “We do it for fun,” Purcell says.

“All of our profits go to charity, and so it is for a good cause.”

Purcell says it takes a full year to plan, build sets, create sounds and put the marketing in place.

“You will see some of your favorites but it is definitely going to be in your face. Many people think it only takes a few months to put it together and they would be right for the building but the hardest part is planning. That takes months,” he said.

Mark and a group of others spend all year dreaming up ideas and

The Calm Before the FearBy Matthew Lupien, Contributing Writer

working on sound effects. There are six main people in the group that help out all year long. Those six are Mark Purcell, Christopher Sweet, Travis Poole, Matthew Lupien, Christina Casbohm and Shari Ball. Each of them have their own part of the process. While Mark watches over the entire process and makes the final decision on what to keep, Chris and Matt are the production managers. They make sure all the ideas come on paper and will work. Travis is in charge of safety and security while the other two help out with advertising and getting donations.

“It is not just the six of us there are almost 40 volunteers that help out with the building, setup, and painting.” said Christopher Sweet production manager.

So if you’re looking to get scared or if you’re just would like to have some fun while donating money to charity look for A.P.E. Productions Fright Night Mansion this fall. If you have and questions for the people from A.P.E. Productions you can contact them through their Myspace page.

www.CayugaCollegian.com

DID YOU KNOW? Collegian Movie Trivia

BIRTHDAYSMay 4 – Randy Travis 1959, Audrey Hepburn 1929 May 5 – Chris Brown 1989, Craig David 1981 May 6 – George Clooney 1961, Lynn Whitfield 1953 May 7 – Mike Wilks 1979, Ricky West 1943 May 8 – Enrique Iglesias 1975, Harry Truman 1884 May 9 – Billy Joel 1949, Rosario Dawson 1979 May 10 – Bono 1960, Fred Astaire 1899

J Camel’s milk does not curdle.J Alexander Hamilton was shot by Aaron Burr in

the groin.J The first Ford cars had Dodge engines.J Leonardo Da Vinci invented the scissors.J It takes about a half a gallon of water to cook

macaroni, and about a gallon to clean the pot.

A REVIEW by STEPHANIE QUINNThe Virgins

earTasha

Send your stories and questions to Tasha at collegian_advice@yahoo.com

Relay for Life: Auburn High SchoolJune 6-7, 2008 starts at 6:00 PM to 7:00 AMOpening Ceremony with Survivor Lap to startJoin us for Ceremonies, team laps, entertainment, games and food!!Volunteers raising funds and bringing cancer aware-ness to the community All funds raise go to: Education, advocacy, research, and patient/family servicesCancer never sleeps! For more information on this event and volunteering go to http://events.cancer.org/RFLcayugaNY

May 7th – Engineering Tech Club Meeting 11am-12pmMay 9th – 24th Annual Accounting Banquet Owasco Country Club 7:00pmMay 9th – Spring Semester Classes EndMay 10th-15th – Final ExamsMay 18th – CommencementMay 18th – Alumni Awards Brunch 9:30am Springside Inn

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Dear Tasha - So I met this guy a week ago. I’m so intrigued with him. I think about him a lot. He knows I’m interested in him, and so is he because my friend gave him my number like I told him to do. I saw him on Friday, and he walked me to my car when I left he hugged me and kissed me. I called him back the next day, and yesterday. But I still haven’t heard from him. Am I just worrying too much because I haven’t heard from him or is there a reason for this? -Anxious Dear Anxious – First of all, give him some space. Second, you might want to keep looking. Don’t settle on this guy, because from the way it sounds, he really isn’t as interested in you as you would like to think. -Tasha Dear Tasha - My boyfriend is really obsessed with me and I don’t like it at all, he calls me literally every 10 minutes. I’m getting really sick of it, and I’m starting not to like him. What should I do or tell him? -Worried Dear Worried – You should probably tell your parents just so they know there is something going on and are aware of your situation. They might suggest reporting it to the authorities. You might want to see what your parents think you should do, they could help you through this. If you do end up discussing this with him, make sure you word what you say very carefully, but make sure the point gets across. -Tasha

You’ve seen them before, answering phones and directing students to class. But just who are Cayuga Community College’s switchboard operators and greeters? The Collegian decided to take a closer look at the three ladies who help get things (and people) moving along at CCC.

Pat Fyorillo-Bullock has been working at Cayuga Community College since 1999. Starting out in campus services, Fyorillo-Bullock began working the switchboard in June 2001. She is a familiar face around campus, working Monday through Friday from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm. Born in Pennsylvania, Fyorillo-Bullock resided in Rochester before settling in Auburn. Once a registered nurse, Fyorillo-Bullock worked at a chiropractic office in Auburn for quite some time. She lives about one mile from campus and enjoys walking to work, at least when the weather is nice. “I love people and I’m a good listener,” Fyorillo-Bullock says. “That’s why I like working here.”

Working from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Mondays through Thursdays is Norene Bartkowiak. Going on her fourth year at CCC, Bartkowiak has previously worked at many locations in Central New York. Her past jobs have included everything from being a secretary at General Electric to working at a hardware store for 14 years. She was born and raised in the Syracuse area and has lived in

Meet CCC GreetersBy Meghan Rindfleisch, Staff Writer

CNY all of her life. Even though the job can become hectic at times, Bartkowiak loves the variety that it brings her. “You get to know everyone very well, especially the students,” she remarked. Her only concern: “the students always seem to leave too fast.”

Last, but certainly not least, is Arlene D’Alberto, the Sunday greeter and switchboard operator from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. She has been working at CCC since last August after replying to an advertisement for the job in the newspaper. Born and raised in Auburn, D’Alberto has tight connections with the area. She was employed at Off Track Betting (commonly referred to as OTB) for 21 years before starting at CCC. “I don’t mind working just one day out of the work,” said D’Alberto. “The students and workers are so friendly and I love it here.”

PHOTO BY BEN BOLDING

PHOTO BY BEN BOLDING

Pat Fyorillo-Bullock

Arlene D’Alberto

The Virgins are a self-proclaimed sound, made up of New Wave, Soul, and R&B band playing out of New York City. Although their personal virginity is unknown, this four-piece is certainly not a virgin to the music scene. Recently featured on the CW’s mega “bubble gum” hit, Gossip Girl, about rich teens living out their “rough” lives in New York. The song, coincidently titled “Rich Girls” is also their current single featured as the first track on this EP. This track displays the band’s New Wave style mixed with some R&B beats to make a song that poses a strong and random resemblance to some of the Bee Gees’ songs. The second track on the CD was also featured on an episode of Gossip Girl, “Love is colder than Death”. Some of the

lyrics in this song are, “When we’re passing on the street, we both look the other way. Was it just a fantasy? Was it only in my mind? Said it feels so strong, I don’t know. Don’t let your love be colder than death, don’t let no teardrops fall from your eye.” Definitely the most fun of the album is “Fernando Pando” which has an almost Reggae and relaxed feel to it. Moving back to their Progressive and New Wave roots, The Virgins bring a very guitar heavy, distorted song with the tune “Radio Christiane”. Ending with quite the ironic song in “One Week of Danger” where the band’s lyrics directly go against their “virgin” label. However, these Virgins are sure to become very well-versed in the coming years, or at least in the Gossip Girl world.

1. What was the original title of the movie Over Her Dead Body?a. My Dead Best Friendb. Not Over Her Dead Bodyc. How I Met My New Boyfriend’s Dead Fiancéed. Night At The Gazebo

2. How many years before The Simpson’s Movie was created that the internet domain was registered?a. nineb. sevenc. sixteend. one

3. How old was Steve Carell when the movie The 40 Year Old Virgin was released?a. 40b. 46c. 43d. 38

4. Why was production of the movie Enter the Dragon briefly put on hold?a. Bruce Lee was injuredb. Ninja Turtles attacked the setc. They were waiting for additional actorsd. A corpse was found on location

5. How many days did the movie Napoleon Dynamite take to shoot?a. 1000b. 365c. 63d. 22

Answers: 1c, 2a, 3c, 4d, 5d