utLook STUDENT PRESSO Vol. 43 Issue 11 February 28, 2011 Outlookpress.org

SUNY Palooza Planned to Fight Budget Cuts

In the face of Governor Andrew Cuomo’s proposed $1.1 billion cut to SUNY, the SUNY Student Assembly is organizing a second annual “SUNY Palooza,” a day of student advocacy in Albany.

“If our kids aren’t getting educated, we can’t have a future,” says RCC Student Government President Marvin Mathew. “Every RCC student should try to make it [to SUNY Palooza].”

The SUNY Palooza event is planned for March 15, and the RCC Student Government is working on arranging for buses

to take students to Albany, as they did last year.

According to RCC Executive Vice President Mort Myers, as per education law, the State of New York should contribute 40 percent of RCC’s budget, but since 1970 this has only happened once, he said. This funding gap leaves students forced to cover the difference,

in the form of tuition.Explains Myers, “The way

the system actually works is that it’s not that Albany will take a look at our overall operating expenses and write us a check. We get funded based on a base aid rate.”

A base aid rate is where the

SEE SUNY PAGE 3

Veterans of Color RecountTheir Service, and Their Lives

Comics by student cartoonists that will

make you laugh.Check out Outlook’s

Funny Pages

“In all seriousness, art students hate boyfriend-girlfriend art.” “In Love Part One”

“Out of the dark abyss of space comes the shining beacon of justice.” “Gamma Veldar, Prince of Space”

“On this list, perfect for the young open-minded student, you will find the eclectic mix of realistic

goals with just the right amount of ridiculousness.”

Brittany Coard, Student

Features 5

“Bring some of this reckless aviatrix’s style into your own look without ever leaving the ground.”

Brittany Flynn, Student

STYLE 9

Attain the retro fashion style of Amelia Earheart

in a few easy steps.

State Senator Joseph Robach (R-56), a SUNY graduate, addresses students from the steps of the state capitol building at year’s SUNY Palooza.

Cou

rtesy

of S

enat

or Jo

seph

Rob

ach

Decorated servicemen from World War Two, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War were among the Rockland County veterans assembled at a panel recounting the military service of persons of color.

As the veterans spoke of their experiences with racism and segregation, along with their triumphs in both their military and professional careers, they highlighted the issue of race in this country, and the perseverance of racial minorities throughout our history.

Judge Joe Thaxton served in the U.S. Navy from 1950-1954,

worked with the famous all-black Tuskegee Airmen, and became the first black judge of Rockland County. “Regardless of whether it’s the Navy, Army or Air Force, it’s still your country,” he said.

Even with the proud service of all the panel members, each in his own way faced adversity due to his color. Judge Thaxton’s military career was threatened with a Navy court martial because of his skin color, he said.

Lieutenant Colonel Charles H. Butler excelled in his examinations and in boot camp,but like many other young black servicemen, he said, he was denied further training and ordered to be a flag carrier. He was also told

SEE VETERANS PAGE 3

SATIRE 11

Josh BlachorskyNews Editor

A peak into the bucket list of an RCC student.

Governor is proposing SUNY cuts of $1.1 billion

Willie J. Trotman, President of the Spring Valley NAACP, answers questions during the veterans panel.

Ian MauroManaging Editor

Ian

Mau

ro /

Out

look

Stu

dent

Pre

ss

News2 February 28, 2011

“How can we stop the bullying?” a freshman at RCC, Julie Stevens asked. “I see it go on all the time.”

On Feb. 17, a panel of local experts on bullying came to RCC to try to solve that problem, in the theater in the Cultural Arts Center. Inspired by recent suicides of young adults, the meeting was called to

find solutions to the widespread problem of bullying.

Moderated by News 12’s Brian Connybeare, members of the community asked the panel various questions ranging from legal recourse in the event of bullying to dealing with school administrators who claim they cannot provide solutions.

In the past, students accused of bullying would be treated as first time offenders. In response to claims that bullies aren’t brought

to justice, DA Thomas Zugibe told of his program that brings together information from schools, police, and the DA’s office to judges.

While most of the people who addressed the panel were victims of bullying or the family of members of victims, former “bullies” also spoke on the need for education on the impact of words.

“How do you let people know [that]they’re bullying?” asked student Tom Warner, and stressed the need to teach “the power of words, how (does) it affect people.”

John Haber, author of “Bullyproof Your Child for Life,”talked about the importance of recognizing that not all bullies are insecure. He referenced research showing that many students attempt to maintain their social status through verbally and physically abusing others. These types of bullies are likely to get away with more because they can connect with teachers.

Although the general consensus was positive, some felt that some issues weren’t addressed. Suffern High School student Courtney Cramer thought that the discussion was informative, but “no real solution” was reached.

However, it seemed the large majority of the students came out of the discussion with a positive outlook.

“I liked it,” said sophomore Ana Aparicio. “ I think it’s great [that] they engaged students.”

It was generally agreed that community involvement would be necessary, in order to truly win this fight. While one person may

be able to help a victim of bullying, it will take everyone to keep it from happening in the first place. Clubs and activities can help students, who may have no other support structure in their life, to deal with bullying. Cyber bullying was addressed many times by the panel, but little was offered in the way of solutions. Haber’s advice was “never respond” when dealing with cyber bullying, as this will only lead to further attacks.

Additional panelists included: Ellen Morehouse; executive director of Student Assistance Services, Terri K. Needle; Professor and Counselor at RCC, Linda Grimm; principal of Mildred E. Strang Middle School, and Michael Digeronimo, President of the Monroe Woodbury Board of Education.

Clubfest Matches Students With Campus Clubs

The Battle Against Bullying Comes to RCC

On Thurs, Feb. 17, room 3218 in the Student Union Building was buzzing with activity. Numerous clubs gathered together for Clubfest, the bi-annual festival where clubs and student groups gather to show their organization to attempt to gain new members. Posters were set up, fliers were passed out, and a few dancers were enjoying the lively music that blared from the International Dance Club’s stereo. The room was filled with a plethora of activity from the wide range of clubs.

Various cultures are celebrated in clubs such as the L.U.N.A. club, which stands for “Latinos Unidos Nostros Americanos”. This energetic group is devoted to sharing characteristics of Hispanic culture. “We want students to appreciate their heritage while assimilating into American culture,” Yaiza Betances stated. Other international clubs include Italian club, Haitian club, and the Filipino club.

Also present were clubs that offered creative outlets such as the Organic Gardening club, Photography club, and Art Club.

Melanie Mowery, President of Art Club, described some of the trips that the club would be taking to places such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art. Secretary of Art Club, Crystal Cabrera, listed the various workshops and activities that the members do. Both she and Melanie encourage students interested in the club by saying, “You don’t have to be an artist. All you need is an appreciation for art.”

There are several clubs, each with their

own approaches to reaching out to those in need. The Advocates of A.D.A. (Americans with Disabilities Act) club is dedicated to making RCC’s campus more accessible for handicap students. Members of Habitat for Humanity are taking their charity work on the road, traveling to New Orleans in the spring to aid in rebuilding what was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. Secretary Katherine O’Neill explained that the club will have several fundraisers to collect money for the trip.

Other student organizations are raising awareness of current issues in our society and around the world. Democracy Through the Eyes of Women informs of crucial matters such as domestic violence while the heinous crime of humantrafficking is addressed in the Anti-Slavery Committee. Mental health issues and suicide prevention are discussed in the Active Minds club.

Other clubs include the newly formed Book Club, and the Transfer Club, which helps RCC students transfer to other colleges

once they have graduated. Other clubs are more academically focused such as Alpha Beta Gamma. This business club will be taking a trip to the stock market, an excellent opportunity for students pursuing business majors.

Clubfest proved that there is a club for each student. Whether it’s to meet people that share a common interest, use a talent, or become involved in the community, joining a club at RCC is a productive and fun way to spend some of your free time.

Louie Gaitancontributing Writer

Kuldip Singh (left) of the Student Government Association recruits fellow students at the Spring 2011 Clubfest.

Lindsay ButeuxStaff Writer

Ian

Mau

ro /

Out

look

Stu

dent

Pre

ssIa

n M

auro

/ O

utlo

ok S

tude

nt P

ress

Ian Mauro / Outlook Student Press

News 3February 28, 2011

that he “wasn’t college material” by his commanding officer. Colonel Butler went on to earn three degrees, including a masters.

David C. Smith, former President of the Chamber of Commerce, served in Special Operations during the Vietnam War. He became an officer to a battalion of 1,000 men and earned over a dozen service medals and awards. When things came to a head during his tour, he said, “The only color we knew was red…no matter who you are we all bled red.”

African-American history is “beautiful,” he said, expressing pride in the accomplishments of new generations.

The panel conveyed that their wartime experiences motivated them to make a difference in a country still struggling with racism.

Willie J. Trotman, President of the Spring Valley NAACP, served in the U.S. Army. Expressing his motivations, Trotman said, “If you get something and don’t share, no one knows you have it.” His experiences and his accomplishments could only help others if he gave back to the community, he said.

After serving in Special Reconnaissance in Cambodia during the Vietnam War, Chief Dwaine C. Perry of the Ramapo Lenape Tribe, returned to join the NAACP and American Legion. As the elected Chief of the Ramapo Lenape, he said, he continues to work against discrimination and to strengthen awareness of cultural differences.

Angela Vasser Cooper, MSW, said she needed to reciprocate the help she received as a woman in the armed forces, and is now the President of the Women Veterans Association of the Hudson Valley.

state gives a certain amount of money per full time student.

In 2007, the base aid rate was $2765 per student— for 2011 it was $2034, a nearly 27 percent reduction. This leaves students having to hypothetically pay more in tuition to make up for the lost revenue.

And while a nine percent rise in enrollment has helped keep RCC afloat,

according to Myers, “I just don’t see those numbers staying that way. Graduating seniors are only up one tenth of a percent for Rockland County.”

The state’s budget gap, estimated to be around $10 billion, is one of the largest in the nation. Governor Cuomo, who ran on a platform of limited spending, does not state in his 27-page budget platform that he is “cutting” SUNY spending, only that the SUNY system will not be funded in a way that meets all its costs.

According to sophomore Ilana Grant, “The state has such a large deficit, everyone, including students, needs to share in the pain.”

Others disagreed, seeing the governor’s proposed “funding gap” as shortsighted and “atrocious.”

“Students are the future,” said Ashley Cole, a sophomore and treasurer of SGA. “If we don’t invest in them, there is nothing to look forward to; the state should try as hard as they can to help us.”

The SUNY Student Assembly is calling for a “rational tuition policy,” one that takes all factors into account when talking about raising tuition.

According to Mr. Myers, “We cannot talk about rational tuition without discussing a rational state aid plan.”

Any cuts that affect RCC will likely not be felt immediately, Mr. Myers said. Tuition is not set to rise drastically, and there are no planned program or teacher cuts.

Veterans Recount Lives at War and at HomeVeterans of color recount their wartime experiences at a Black History Month panel.

SUNY Palooza Planned to Give Students a Say in Albany Budget Talks

>> VETERANS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

>> SUNY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Ian

Mau

ro /

Out

look

Stu

dent

Pre

ss

Ian Mauro / Outlook Student Press Ian Mauro / Outlook Student Press

On Tuesday, Feb. 22, Dr. Daniel M. Miller, a registered geologist and head of the Rockland County Department of Health Water Supply Bureau, hosted a discussion debunking the myths and dangers between bottled and tap water in Academic I room 1106 CETL.

Dr. Miller discussed with students and faculty the ways of which the county delivers water. Through his brief 45-minute power-point presentation, he addressed the questions of multiple RCC

students and teachers mostly based on water testing and water purification on a county level.

“I’d say that tap water is just as clean to drink as bottled water, in our county that is,” said Dr. Miller.

He addressed issues regarding the truth behind exposure of water bottles to the sun, suggesting that if plastic bottled water is left out in the sun for long periods of time or in warm places with direct contact from the sun, bacteria can begin to grow.

Dr. Miller agreed that bottled water maintains its tastefulness for longer but warned that if left in the sun for too long the organic compounds of BPA can be released into ‘purified water.’ If this occurs, the water may be contaminated with plastics, which is unsafe for consuming.

On the topic of bottled water, Miller stated that storing bottles is unnecessary. “The beauty of tap water is that it’s always there,” he said. Furthermore, he pointed out that if one was to store tap water for drinking purposes, a Brita or PUR system is a good choice as long as the filters are being changed frequently.

Closed water resources provide Rockland’s water so there is no fear for pharmaceuticals running off from waste systems into our water. However, he advised that people check water with water testing kits at least every couple months. All in all, Dr. Miller ensured that our counties’ tapped water is just as clean as the water in bottles, if not better.

news4 February 28, 2011

Myths and Ideas of Tap vs. Bottled Water ExploredHead of Rockland County’s water supply debunks the dangers of tap water

Marvin MathewContributing Writer

Chris BarkerContributing Writer

On Feb. 10, Dr. Komozi Woodard and Dr. Jeanne Theoharis led a civil rights lecture in the Technology Building, which was open to all students.

Some of the many topics discussed ranged from the sources of inspiration for history’s civil rights leaders to how racism is still prevalent in the United States today.

“Black History Month is a month where we have a lot of celebration about the civil rights movement,” said Theoharis, after describing some of the many accomplishments of great civil right’s activists.

Woodard delved into the issues of inner city gentrification and how it affects children inhabiting those areas. “New York City has a segregated school system; black children are going to bad schools, Latino children are going to bad schools, and white kids are going to much better schools,” stated Woodard.

He further went to say that the south was not the only region in the United States with racism issues, but that the North contributed to those issues and still do to this day.

Dr. Woodard and Dr. Theoharis have been involved in the civil rights movement for most of their lives. Woodard

was inspired to join the civil rights movement in high school due to the harsh mistreatment of an African American woman named Fannie Lou Hamer.

Throughout Dr. Theoharis’ life, she has always been interested in African American studies. At Harvard University, Theoharis majored in African American Studies.

Upon leaving Harvard, Theoharis taught African American Studies at high schools in Boston and Los Angeles.

The discussion appeared to have a large impact on students.

Sophomore Christian Dougherty said, “I was truly amazed when I attended the panel discussion about civil rights. I thought I fully understood civil rights before I attended, but I can honestly say I learned things about civil rights that I did not know about. I feel more students should take advantage of these discussions held on campus.”

Civil Rights Panel Makes Big Impact

Not a question you hear every day, now is it? For those familiar with recent programming like MTV’s The Buried Life, this question has been appearing more and more in pop culture. The premise of the TV show is a group of 20-somethings trying to accomplish the lofty goals on their bucket list while helping others achieve a dream of their own. Ten years ago one would have items such as “win the Super Bowl” or “become a Spice Girl” on the list of things to do before they “kicked the bucket.” Today, one is more likely to see “find a reasonable-paying job” on a list than “be a professional wrestler.” On this list, perfect for the young open-minded s t u d e n t , you will find the eclectic mix of realistic

goals with just the right amount o f r i d i c u l o u s -

ness.

1-Become a millionaire 2-Hang out with Lady Gaga for a weekend 3-Participate in a flash mob (for those unfamiliar with the term, YouTube it) 4-Jump on Oprah’s couch 5-Go to the Coachella Music Festival 6-Go backpacking across Europe 7-Visit every major attraction in each continent (yes, including Antarctica) 8-Start a charitable organization 9-Interrupt Kanye West during an acceptance speech 10-Ride a camel 11-Visit Neverland Ranch 12-Swim with sharks 13-Attend New York Fashion Week 14-Study Abroad for 5-12 months 15-Participate in the “Running of the Bulls” in Pamplona, Spain 16-Go skydiving 17-Be a guest on a talk show (for a positive reason, and no, not a paternity test) 18-Start a band 19-Brush Justin Bieber’s hair 20-Fist-bump President Obama 21-Get bitten by a viper in Morocco (it’s actually a tourist attraction) 22-Dance with Ellen Degeneres on her show 23-Bungee jump in Sydney, Australia 24-Guest star in an episode of Glee 25-Start a dance craze 26-Play dress-up with the cast of Gossip Girl

27-Have a giant water balloon fight in Times Square 28-Go to the Grammys 29-Go to the Academy Awards 30-Write a novel 31-Write a song 32-Fall in love 33-Do the “Single Ladies” dance with Beyoncé 34-Earn a Master’s degree and a doctorate 35-Participate in a high-speed car chase (à la Jason Bourne trilogy) 36-Learn how to do a cartwheel (personally I can’t do one, and it’s sad) 37-Be a panelist on Chelsea Lately 38-Cheer excessively loudly at a golf tournament 39-Meet Queen Elizabeth II 40-Sit in a bathtub full of money (see item #1) 41-Have Morgan Freeman narrate my life for a month 42-Host SNL 43-Fly a plane 44-Climb Pride Rock (and subsequently hold a lion cub above my head) 45-Touch Nicki Minaj’s butt 46-Learn ballet 47-Attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry 48-Start a beef with a rapper (superficially, of course) 49-Find ultimate happiness in life 50-Have a party in the United States with Miley

Features5 February 28, 2011

Brittany Coardcontributing writer

What to Do Before You ‘‘Kick the Bucket’’?An inside look into an RCC student’s bucket list

If you know what you want to do with your life, blogging is the most efficient and low cost way to start out. When most people think of blogs, they think of Tumblr or Blogger, which are essentially online diaries used to type out a quotation worth repeating or post a noteworthy photograph. Those too are considerably beneficial to a college student, but a lot of people don’t know that there is a whole world brimming with opportunities due to blogging. The list of motives to blog is extensive, but there are a few prominent reasons worth naming.

ONE: Networking. Believe it or not, many high powered individuals check blog sites in order to scope out interns or get some extra information on the people entering the field. Show that you are passionate about what you do and you might just get lucky. You should always post your resume on your blog and use keywords in your title that are associated with your career objectives. Your blog posts can easily be accessed by Google when the keywords of your blog are typed in. Your blog will be revealed in almost every search engine which can help you acquire some dedicated readers.

TWO: You might actually learn

something. Continually writing about your achievements, desires, and ideas will keep your mind operating. You will also be writing all the time, so becoming a more effective writer is inevitable. You will acquire information about that thing you love doing, making you more educated on the subject. If you want to succeed in matter can only improve your chances for success.

THREE:Confidence. Seeing your work, images, research, rants, etc., all in one place can really trigger positive thoughts in one’s head. People who take pride in their blogs usually embed some sort of look and tone to the page. You would want it to represent you in all of its aspects and have it organized in a personal way. Seeing all of these features collected onto one page that you probably check at least five times a day would make you feel like you’ve achieved something. You will always be able to cultivate and see your improvements through the blogging process.

FOUR: Release stress. Not every student uses a blog just for their future, but rather for expression and art. As we all know, college stresses us out so much that it can actually make us feel numb. If we write down our feelings or go on a tangent about something that feels like an anchor pulling us down, it can help absolve the pressure. Letting

others read some of your problems can often help you feel appreciated and understood. Posting your favorite memories or song lyrics can alleviate the anxiety that has been hiding behind school work.

FIVE: Make money. When a blogger is elevating on the success

scale, the blog site will actually pay the person to blog. It can sometimes be hundreds of dollars for just writing and researching what you love. When you get dedicated readers, they will sometimes donate money to you because they get to feel a connection and an understanding towards the blogger.

Shara BeitchContributing Writer

Blogging: Every Student’s Way to NetworkFive reasons why every college student should blog

Style & Entertainment8 February 28, 2011

While in the midst of award season, the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards did not fail to entertain its viewers. With amazing performances and nominees, audience members were sitting on the edge of their seats waiting to see what would happen next.

Red CarpetPlenty of music’s biggest stars came

out to walk the red carpet in their finest or craziest outfits. It was no surprise that Lady Gaga made quite an entrance on the red carpet. As most celebrities would arrive in a limousine, Lady Gaga was carried inside an egg. She was reported to be incubating and wouldn’t be born until her performance later that night.

Another interesting female to walk the red carpet was Nicki Minaj. She dressed in as what seemed to be a Flintstones character, wearing a cheetah print dress and poufy hair but she definitely worked the diva factor into her ensemble. When asked about her outfit, Minaj described it as “ a miraculous piece of lioness meets her cub, meets fierceosity, meets fabulousity, meets fashionista, meets runway meets everything.”

PerformancesThe Grammy’s had non-stop

performances from the hottest acts in the music business that are heard all over the radio. Each performance had its own unique and eye-catching set. To open the awards, five very talented performers sang a tribute to the amazing Aretha Franklin. Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson, Florence Welch from Florence and the Machine, Yolanda Adams and Martina McBride all belted out the 18-time Grammy winner’s most famous hits.

Lady Gaga was the second performance of the night and as predicted, she emerged from her egg to sing her newest single “Born This Way.” The costumes were simple,

some dancers looked as if they weren’t wearing anything at all and everyone on stage, including Gaga, had what looked to be protruding bones coming out of their shoulders and foreheads. The choreography was amazing and her vocals were spot on.

Miranda Lambert then performed her two-time nominated song “ The House that Raped Me” followed by Muse, who sang their famous tune “Uprising” to flashy lights and dancing rioters below the stage.

Bruno Mars, B.o.B, and Janelle Monae all performed their most current hits like “Nothin’ On You”, “Grenade” and “Cold War”. While Mars performed solo the video effects made it seem like the viewers were back in the 1950s when television was only black and white. It was very creative if you had never seen black and white video before.

Justin Bieber broke many hearts during his performance with Jaden Smith and Usher. The performance started with a video back from 2007 when Bieber first sang for Usher. He then went on to sing an acoustic version of his single “Baby” and then showed off his best dance moves while performing his latest single and the title of his movie, “Never Say Never” featuring Jaden Smith.

Lady Antebellum harmonized beautifully during their performance of “American Honey” and “Need You Now” and proved they were capable of winning the many Grammy’s they did.

Cee Lo Green dressed as a fluffy red bird during his performance of “Forget You” which also featured the Muppets.

Rihanna showed her sexy and savvy sides during her performances. She first was joined by Eminem to perform the song “Love The Way You Lie, Part II” which is featured on her album. Then she left the stage while Eminem, Dr. Dre and Skylar Grey performed their newest single “I Need A Doctor”. Later in the show, Rihanna took the stage again to perform her seductive and catchy song “What’s My Name?” with Drake.

The last performance of the night went to the Canadian rock group Arcade Fire. Violinists and stunt motorcyclist joined the band on stage while they sang “Month of May” which was their first Grammy Performance ever. After their big win, Arcade Fire took the stage again officially closing the show.

The AwardsLady Antebellum was the big winner of

the night, walking away with 5 Grammy’s including, Record of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Country Album and Best Country Song. The trio’s newest album entitled “Need You Now” has been topping the charts ever since its release in early 2010.

Other winners were Arcade Fire who won Album of the Year for their album “The Suburbs.” It was no shock that Lady

Gaga won Best Pop Album for “The Fame Monster” and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for “Bad Romance.”

Bieber fans were disappointed when Esperanza Spalding won Best New Artist. Although Bieber may have made the most commotion this year, the Jazz singer is now the first of her genre to win that award.

There was also Lifetime Achievement Awards given out to musical legends Julie Andrews, Roy Haynes, Julliard String Quartet, Kingston Trio, The Ramones, George Beverly Shea, and Dolly Parton.

The Grammy’s were a music-filled night of many wins and loses for the most popular acts of 2010. The excitement of the performances and the anticipation of the awards definitely make the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards a successful award show.

Julie HirshStaff Writer

53rd Grammys: A Night Dedicated to Music

With more feet of snow than feet in snow boots, winter time can easily cramp your style. With everyone going into at least one sweatpants slump per cold season guarantees the hardship to keep the spring dream alive. That said, no one need be depressed for too long as it is possible to look cute, stay warm and avoid looking like an eskimo.

A few tips and tricks for the cold blooded like moi will hopefully help you get through what’s left of what should be Alaska’s winter.

Layer SmartTo keep cozy, wear more than a long

sleeve shirt and coat. Thermals are both cute and warm. They come in cute prints and are perfect for wearing under a tee shirt or short sleeved sweater. Forgo the tank tops this time of year and stock up on sweaters of all knits and warmths during winter clearance time.. now!

North FaceThe warmth of the North Face jacket

exceeds expectations when layered with a sweatshirt or cute chunky sweater. Wear it as a coat so you don’t have the

bulk of a puffy jacket, then go ahead and take it off as soon as you reach a building to show off a fabulous outfit underneath!

They come in cute colors such as pink and purple and are cheaper if you can fit into children sizes.

Fleece/Shearling Lined Everything

I’m talking sweatpants, leggings, jeans (they should make those, but for now I’ll just dream), even coats. Fleece can keep you warm when worn appropriately. Wearing a f leece lined coat or sweatshirt prevents you from needing extra layers.

RainbootsAn alternative to heavy snowboots

are cute rainboots. They keep you dry and come in cool colors and prints in all shapes and sizes. You can get them as booties or tall. Don’t forget the adorable liners and knee high socks available! Hunter is known for their rainboots but they’re accessible in other stores like Marty’s or DSW.

Cute Boots are wearable!Instead of the usual Uggs, go ahead

and wear cute ankle booties if the weather permits. Make sue to stock up on socks as well. Wear two pairs of regular socks or even one pair of socks and then a pair of slipper socks. Until you take your shoes off, no one will know how your feet stay so cozy. And if your friend or mom wears a size or two bigger than you it gives you an even better reason to borrow.

ScarfsNot a fashion statement for only the

winter months, a scarf is the perfect transitional piece needed for spring. Keep your neck warm and look chic too! Pair it with an oversized tunic, leggings, boots, and big sunglasses for a star worthy look.

Nicole HoffmanStaff Writer

Winter Styles That Keep You Warm fix it

Style & EntertainmentFebruary 28, 2011 9

Sari Ugell: “‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1.’ It followed the book well. Everything they did was so well done, from the special effects to the acting. I love ‘Harry Potter.’”

Jonathan MallonStaff Writer

When you think of fashion icons, Amelia Earhart isn’t the first name that comes to mind. This pilot became famous for being the first woman to achieve a solo transatlantic flight and her legend was cemented when she disappeared during an attempt to circumnavigate

the globe, but a little known fact about her is that she was one of the first celebrity fashion designers.

For his Fall 2009 Hermes ready-to-wear collection, John Paul Gaultier channeled Amelia Earhart, sending models down the runway in modernized versions of her look done in unconventional fabrics, including crocodile-skin bomber jackets trimmed with fur and leather jumpsuits. The models even wore her characteristic goggles. Here’s how to bring some of this reckless aviatrix’s style into your own look without ever leaving the ground.

Fashion: First and foremost, you’ll need Amelia’s classic leather bomber jacket. Luckily, bomber jackets never really go out of style, therefore obtaining one shouldn’t be too difficult. Amelia’s jacket

was brown, but there are jackets sold in black, and primary colors.

To achieve her minimalistic, androgynous style, a simple white collared shirt is all you need. It’s important to make sure this shirt is tailored and fits impeccably.

Amelia’s taste in pants veered from one extreme to the other; they were either tight, skinny pants or wide-legged men’s style trousers. For a modern take on the skinny look, purchase a pair of dark wash skinny jeans and tuck them into knee high leather boots. If you’re interested in replicating the wide-legged look, then tweed trousers are the way to go. Amelia was rarely seen without her billowing silk scarf and aviation goggles, therefore it’s important to approximate these two integral accessories. You can either wrap the scarf around your neck a few times and tie it at the side or wear it untied around your neck under your shirt’s collar. Top off the look with a pair of aviator sunglasses for a more practical version of goggles.

Makeup: Amelia Earhart’s makeup was minimal, to say the least. In most pictures, it looks like she wasn’t wearing any and that’s probably close to the truth. For our purposes, I’m going to explain how to achieve a subtle, polished no-makeup look that replicates Amelia’s naturally glowing skin.

First, start with a tinted moisturizer, rather than an actual foundation. Foundation tends to reflect light differently than bare skin, which sometimes can leave one looking slightly artificial. To avoid this problem, you’ll want something with extremely sheer coverage in order to avoid losing your skin’s natural texture.

Recommendations: Urban Decay and Stila both make excellent tinted moisturizers, but if you’re on a budget, simply mix a little of your regular foundation with any generic moisturizer.

After this, lightly apply a concealer wherever you feel it’s needed (blemishes, under-eye circles), but avoid covering any freckles.

Next, take a slightly shimmery powder bronzer and lightly brush around the edges of your face with a fluffy powder brush. When I say “lightly,” I mean lightly; the goal here is to look like you’ve spent a little time in the sun, not like you’re a reject from a Jersey Shore casting call.

Recommendations: M.A.C. bronzer or NARS bronzer. Which shade you use depends on your skin tone, but avoid colors that are drastically darker than your skin.

Once your bronzer is on, it’s time for blush. For this look, you want something warm and summery, so use a peach-y blush and apply it lightly to the apples of your cheeks, starting closer to the nose and blending up and out along your cheekbones.

Recommendations: NARS blush in Orgasm. If you have particularly oily skin, feel free to set all of this with a light dusting of powder, but it isn’t really necessary. Once you’ve finished with your skin, lightly spray M.A.C.’s Fix + over your face to help the powder

Swipe a coat of brown mascara over your top lashes and throw on a dab of a sheer light peach/pink lipstick, lip stain, or tinted lip balm and you’re done.

Outlook’s Fave Films 2010:“Outlook” staff picks their favorite films of last year.

It’s that time of the year again. Major stars are getting designer dresses that some of us will never be able to afford, and major films that many people have or may not have seen are nominated! There are also some quality films that haven’t been nominated or even recognized. Giving honor to both those nominated and overlooked films, I asked the staff about their favorite films of last year. Here’s what they said, in their own words:

Louie Gaitan: “I love ‘Scott Pilgrim (vs. the World).’ The whole movie was over the top. It goes from an average guy playing in a band to the same guy fighting all these other guys. I also liked the comic book elements as well, like the words illustrating the sound effects!”

Demi Moore: “‘Inception.’ It took me to another world. It made me think if life was that way, like if we’re all just dreaming and not living in the real world.”

Ken Grand-Pierre: “‘Toy Story 3.’ It was the most emotional movie I’ve found in a long time. I cried in this movie! It’s a kids movie, but it’s relateable to everybody.”

Elizabeth Maze: “’Inception,’ hands down. The special effects, sets, and overall production had me questioning my reality!”

Josh Blachorsky: “‘The King’s Speech,’” because it was just a very well done movie. ‘Despicable Me’ was a close second!”

Jesse Strauch: “‘True Grit.’ I have a terrible weakness for cowboys, and Jeff Bridges is awesome! The Coen brothers always make solid movies, so I wasn’t too worried about how it’d turn out.”

Ian Mauro: “‘Scott Pilgrim’, because I read the animated comic a year before (the movie) came out, and I still found the movie incredibly entertaining. Michael Cera was better suited for this role (of Scott Pilgrim), and his awkwardness benefited the character.”

Style Icon-1930s: Amelia Earhart

Brittany FlynnStaff Writer

Put a modern spin on this female pilot’s retro fashion.

(more at 11)

Pete DowdContributing Writer

It’s no secret that the United States pumps out stars and public figures left and right. Our nation is home of some of the best talent and most memorable Icons the world has ever seen. The entertainment industry has benefited from celebrity figures such as, James Dean, John Wayne, and Marilyn Monroe. But the last few years has baffled the star gazing public with sub-par celebrities that just simply do not live up to America’s standards that our beloved A-List of the past have created. Why is this you ask? For an answer, you may just want to look to the U.S. Marshals Service. One should think back to when auto-tune first started becoming popular. The wonderful technology that could make a person, who generally could not sing or carry a melody, sound amazing. This afforded the United States Marshals Service an interesting, but infuriating opportunity: the next generation of Witness Protection, and its reach is farther than you may think. Recently I sat down with my source, code name “Two Step,” from deep inside the entertainment industry to have a chat about this growing problem in the music and movie industries. “Honestly, this thing goes further and deeper than a mine shaft in Chile,” he said, while looking around at anyone that moved in the restaurant where

we chose to meet. “No one is who they say they are. It’s a joke,” he added. He goes on to tell me about a mob bookie that was caught with three kilos of cocaine in a hotel room in Atlantic City back in late 2004, a multiple felon and registered sex offender named Curtis “Dollar Bill” Kelley. “He was a worm, a real grease ball…” he tells me as our frozen margaritas arrive. Curtis rolled on every member of his crime family to avoid seeing a prison cell, but to ensure his own survival he took it the next level of disappearing. The Marshals Service sprang for a hasty sex change job in Mexico City and began designing a new young pop star. A pop star you know as “Ke$ha.” “Curtis demanded that the dollar bill sign exist in the name.” But that’s not all. He went on to tell me about a laundry list of celebrities born from this new program. “There is this fat woman from Oregon that will be testifying against corrupt State officials,” Step continued. “They own a local chapter of

a vicious gang and gave her the death sentence for witnessing damaging documents back in 2003...she’s known by the name Kate Gosselin.” The list went on to name Kanye West, Lindsay and Dina Lohan, Justin Bieber as being “protected” as well.The entire cast of the Jersey Shore is made up of low scale mob informers from New York and New Jersey who underwent major plastic and cosmetic surgeries. ‘Snookie’ is actually a short Greek man who used to run his own restaurant. Apparently, Lady Gaga was not affiliated with this program, and is the person who she claims to be. So there you have it. The

next time you’re watching TV, reading a newspaper, or listening to the radio, and you just can’t help but wonder why talentless actors are hogging the spotlight or the air waves, or acting a foolishly in front of cameras, you’ll now they’re really just hiding from murderers who want them dead, no less than you and I.

John Gotti

John Gotti

Snooki

utLook OON PAGE 11

Gamma Veldar, Prince of Space by Vinny Murphy

Owe My Soul (2) by Robert Chamberlain

PYRO by Paul Carlucci

www.justinhubbell.comIn Love Part One Justin Hubbell The Many Adventures of Poit The Cat (2) by Brittany Flynn

Opinion February 28, 201112

Since the 1990’s news has been available for free, to anyone with access to the Internet. Recently news organizations are trending more towards online subscription news and away from paper and free Internet forms. In the near future it is possible that free Internet news could be a relic of a bygone age. The consequences of paid news may be far greater than they immediately appear.

The Internet revolutionized the way news is consumed. With a few clicks one can read all of the; local, national, international, and field specific headlines, read in depth opinions of experts, and watch video coverage of almost any news story. Before the Internet, newspapers and television news were the main methods of consumption. Both these venues have distinct disadvantages when it comes to the amount of material available. Newspapers have limited space and television newscasts have limited time. The advent of Internet news allowed people to browse a wide range of news that interested them. In fact free web news has been so successful that many people are canceling their subscriptions to traditional newspapers.

News corporations are discovering that advertising revenue from online news media does not always exceed the monetary loss of reduced subscriptions of print media. As a result many news organizations are experimenting with paid subscriptions.

The New York Times still offers all of its online articles for free; however, paying consumers gain access to a large database of online crossword puzzles and other “extras”.

Many newspapers such as USA Today, have introduced limited online subscription programs. These papers still offer numerous web articles for free. For a fee, however, you get the entire newspaper in an electronic format. The Journal News has introduced a more inclusive subscription service, articles on their website are free for a limited time only. After that, only paid subscribers can read those articles.

None of these subscription services have threatened the availability of free online news, or the benefits it brings. The recent release of The Daily however, has challenged the idea that Internet news will always remain free. The Daily is an electronic only newspaper created by Newscorp. Designed for, and only available on, Apple’s iPad, the Daily is a game changer when it comes to the world of online news.

The Daily is much like any other newspaper, with its own reporting staff and original content. Of course it incorporates many features not possible in a print newspaper such as local weather information and video.

Many people believe that The Daily willcontribute to the demise of print media. I feel that a greater concern

might be the threat to free online news. What The Daily offers is basically the same as many free online news sites. For now, it is only on the iPad but soon it will be offered on other mobile devices and probably on computers in the not too distant future. If it is successful, other news corporations, who offer their online news content for free, may start similar online newspapers. While it is unlikely that free online news will be discontinued, a severe reduction in content is highly probable.

If the availability of free online news where reduced it could have wide reaching effects. I am concerned that a small number of corporations may be able to control what news we read. When news is offered for free, it allows someone to consume news from multiple sources. However, it is unlikely that most people would subscribe to more than one or two paid newspapers.

As a result, the one corporation that produces the newspaper to which you subscribe decides what news is important for you to read. The overall political views of the news company dictate what is and what is not said about particular candidates. It would be highly unlikely that news that ref lects poorly on the corporation owning your newspaper would even be published. Even with the best of intentions and totally honest reporting, some selection still occurs.

E-newspapers may also extend the time it takes for stories to be reported. If your newspaper breaks the story you will experience no delay in reading it. However, if the news is first reported by another paper, you will have to wait longer to find out.

Much of the paid online content is worth its price. However, it is important to remember how our decisions as consumers might affect the future. If you decide to purchase a subscription to a newspaper like The Daily, you are not just subscribing to a particular service, but you are, in fact, voting on how you wish to consume news.

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

www.facebook.com/OutlookPress

Staff: Lindsay Buteux, Brianna Robinson, Sar-ra Schwarz, Chayim Tauber, Katherine O’Neill, Kristian Dougherty, Christian Dougherty, Ken Grand Pierre, Jonathan Mallon, Sarah Mangs, Nicole Hoffman, Lindsay Goldman, Elizabeth Maze, Kathryn Vunk, Rebecca Gross, Miriam Hoffman, Erin O’Brien

Contributors: Tyana Soto, Vinny Murphy, Shara Beitch, Julie Kaufman, Peter Vey, Norissa Jean-Louis, Chris Barker, Brittany Flynn, Louie Graitan

Photographers: Noe Hernandez, Matt Holland, Jacquelyne Jackson, Ariella Chamish, Marcy Rosa

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

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

Professor Fuentes, Advisor

Susanna Perlov, Editor-in-Chief Vanessa Pastorelli, Production ManagerIan Mauro, Managing Editor Demi Moore, Art DirectorKen Grand-Pierre, Art Director

Josh Blachorsky, News Editor Sari Ugell, Features EditorJesse Strauch, Style & Entertainment EditorJeremy Pardo, Opinion EditorZehra Sheikh, Science & Health Editor

Jeremy PardoOpinion Editor

Paying for Internet News

Outlook Student Press

From watching a CNN debate “Anderson Cooper 360: Ethnic Studies Ban Racist?” it seems that ethnic studies are highly discouraged by policy makers and educational administrators. Arizona Superintendent Tom Home and Sociologist Michael Eric Dyson debated whether ethnic history and culture should be included in the classroom, and what it would mean for the American system of education.

This debate represents a dialectic struggle between those who recognize the importance of race in history and education, and those who refuse to acknowledge it.

Critics of ethnic studies, like Tom Homes, typically argue that emphasizing race over traditional history would separate students in the process of learning, while proponents like Michael Eric Dyson argue that racial education would instead enlighten students on the significance of a multiethnic America. Indeed, Home defines ethnic studies as a race-obsessed philosophy, while Dyson presents it as a racially-conscious philosophy. Home believes that Latino studies, in particular, would promote a separatist agenda. Home also argues that allowing students to learn about their racial history provokes cynical rather than critical thinking. He concludes that ethnic studies encourage a racially divisive mentality by capitalizing on the history of oppression in America and emphasizing race.

Dyson adamantly disagrees. He counter-argues that ethnic studies would diversify our curriculum and perspectives on American society. It would also provide a comprehensive and inclusive education in our schools, rather than confine our curriculum to the current standards propagated by Homes.

According to Dyson, ethnic studies would be an effective tool in helping students to understand why certain ethnic groups follow a distinctive historical path in American society. In essence, ethnic studies can be designed to raise student consciousness on the role of ethnicity in our history and culture.

Introducing ethnic studies into the curriculum (whether in Arizona or New York schools) would be an inclusive rather than a divisive approach to education. Ethnic studies can broaden our perspective on racial American history, rather than narrow our point of view. In agreement with Dyson, it seems that ethnic studies are not just educational in their own right, but historically authentic and culturally empowering for all students, regardless of race or creed.

Ethnic StudiesEthnic Studies in the classroom: Does it separate or educate?

Will E-Newspapers cause the demise Of free Internet news?

Noel ShafiContributing Writer

CorrectionIn Issue 10 the article «Birthright: A Trip to Remember»

was writen by Mike Fleishmann.

SCIENCE & HEALTHFebruary 28, 2011 13

This is the first generation to experience the social networking boom. Texting, Facebooking, and twittering are new perks that did not exist even 20 years ago. It has brought people closer. With all the constant communication going on sex is bound to surface.

Sex is a hot topic as is. It’s often on our minds but can be awkward to talk about, especially face-to-face with that special someone. Texting can make talking easier, and it’s not as awkward as calling someone on the phone.

In a study by Shape and Men’s Fitness magazines about whether or not texting leads to sex sooner with a new partner, 80% of women and 58% of men believe that using instant messaging with a new partner leads to sex sooner. However, regardless of what they believe only 38% of women said that they slept with a partner earlier than they would have otherwise.

In the same survey, 65% of the respondents said they were asked out through a text. 39% of men said they texted more than they called, and all of women said they texted more often than they called. It can make an early relationship seem longer and more intense if they’re texting several hours of the day. Flirting

and talking about sex are easy topics when words are typed and read over a screen. Sexting can also contribute to sex sooner if a couple is exchanging revealing photos over their phones.

One could also argue that texting can strengthen a relationship. Original, sweet, thoughtful messages can keep each other going throughout the day, and it means that they’re thinking about one another. Humorous texts are another way to show that you care. Send messages that let

your partner know how you feel.

It

may even be easier fo men to send messages about their feelings rather than saying so in person. Texting is also an easy way to get to know each other.

For those who want to take things slow and actually get to know each other, here are some simple suggestions on how to text appropriately in a new relationship.

1. Don’t over text and smother them with constant attention. Give them time to respond without making them feel l

like you are desperate. 2. Relationships cannot be built on text

m e s s a g e s alone.

It takes a while to get to know each other and the best way to converse is to spend time together in person.

3. Text messages can be read by others, so beware of what is being said and to whom. If something steamy or even embarrassing is texted it could easily be shown to others.

It’s not just texting that can lead to sex sooner, but many social networking sites may be doing the same thing. MySpace and Facebook are two incredibly popular social networks where people can chat, browse friends’ pictures, and keep in touch. Posting sexy pictures and making cute or dirty comments/messages are not uncommon things. Flirting online seems very harmless and casual, leading to more and more couples being formed. The online dating sites contribute the most compared to other social network sites. Websites designed to create new couples are bound to increase the chance of partners hitting the bedroom.

Texting can be great way to maintain an emotional closeness throughout the day. Couples that really care for one another enjoy being in close contact. However, a good thing about texting is that one never has to respond immediately. There is always time to think about what should be said. The single most important thing is who you are texting with. Texting can lead to earlier sex but it depends on the individual.

Instant Messaging: A New Love Connection?Being technologically connected can help your love life

How to make almond-goji cacao chip cookies

Claire WebberStaff Writer

A Guilt-Free Cookie Recipe

Many people associate chocolate with the term “guilty pleasure”, assuming that the consumption of it is inevitably followed by regret. The real “guilt”, though, is not in the chocolate itself but rather in what it is combined with, generally being unhealthy milk fat and refined sugar.

The truth is, chocolate is one of the healthiest foods on our planet. In its raw unprocessed form, chocolate possesses a tremendous nutritional profile, serving as a fantastic source of fiber and an abundant supply of antioxidants. In addition, raw chocolate contains ample amounts of minerals, two of which are magnesium and iron, and these important substances assist our bodies in maintaining strong bones and healthy cells.

The following recipe mixes raw chocolate nibs with goji berries, which are naturally high in Vitamins A and C, and almonds, which are a great source of protein and heart-healthy fats. This combination of chocolate, fruit, and nuts keeps the body satisfied and encourages it to function energetically throughout the whole day.

This recipe is incredibly simple to make and can be prepared in less than five minutes, qualifying it as a treat anyone can put together at home. Plus, it requires no kitchen gadgets and no baking, thus saving

you the hassle of cleaning up afterwards while also sparing you oodles of time. Including quality raw chocolate

in your diet gives both your body and your taste buds what they crave, satisfying your nutritional needs as well as your indulgences. So with nothing to lose but your guilt conscience, why not give this recipe a try?

Almond-Goji Cacao Chip Cookies

½ cup almond butter3 tablespoons agave or maple syrup¼ teaspoon salt1 ½ cups almond meal¼ cup goji berries, or any other desired

dried fruit¼ cup raw cacao nibs

1. Stir together the almond butter, agave syrup, and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the almond meal, goji berries, and cacao nibs and mix well.

2. Drop the dough by 1 ½ tablespoons onto a sheet tray lined with parchment paper. Use a fork to press the balls into flattened cookies, as you would for peanut butter cookies. Serve right away, or freeze for an hour to firm up.

3. Will keep for many weeks in the fridge or freezer. Thaw for 5 minutes before eating.

Recipe courtesy of Ani Phyo from Ani’s Raw Food Desserts

Monica PowellContributing Writer

In-Car Connectivity systems (or “Infotainment Systems” as they are sometimes known) allow you to connect most popular mobile devices to your car allowing for audio to played through the speakers and device functions to be controlled by voice commands.

SYNC is one of the first of this kind of system. It was created by collaboration between Ford and Microsoft. Microsoft was initially bound by an exclusivity agreement, but it is now free from this. You can now find similar systems in other brand’s vehicles, such as the Kia Sorrento, where it is known as UVO.

SYNC features instant voice recognition which allows voice control without having to train the system to your voice. In addition to controlling entertainment and communication, SYNC provides GPS navigation and 911 assist, which will call 911 in event of an accident.

Ford has released a study showing that SYNC reduces distractions while driving. However, this study only compared it to driving while using a device by hand. Given all the new options that SYNC provides, it has the potential to be more distracting than driving without these features.

It can make a much safer driver, but its ease of use might get some people talking on their cell phones that wouldn’t have previously. It is for this reason that SYNC, and other similar technologies, are under scrutiny from the National

Safety Council. Ford is combating this by implementing features such as “Do not disturb”. All this feature does is block incoming calls and texts while still allowing access to other phone features.

SYNC is not without issues. Unfortunately, not all phones and MP3 players function with SYNC, and even the devices that do, aren’t always completely supported. Some devices may cause problems with SYNC when updated, such as when an iPhone update caused malfunctions.

Ford does update the software, so support can be added for more devices. Software updates can be accomplished by downloading an update from the Internet to a f lash drive. A Ford dealership can perform the update, but they will charge for one hour of labor.

The voice recognition software is not perfect. Some users reported having to raise their voice or having to attempt a command several times.

Ford has created a fix for problems like this, but some owners are unhappy with it because it involves adding an additional microphone that is not aesthetically pleasing. A main problem with SYNC is that most of the early adopters have been turned into guinea pigs for Ford.

While SYNC and other Infotainment Systems may make driving safer, they are still glitchy. It may be wise to wait until other companies start selling better systems before purchasing one.

Even with the problems, SYNC is still helpful for those who are continually talking while driving. Hopefully, SYNC and other such systems will save lives in the future.

Today the dollar doesn’t go very far, even in the world of Apple who lets those buck apps pass as excuses for games. It seems that every small time programmer is out to get their $0.99 download on the market. Even the most frugal iTunes spender knows that anything free is a tease. With the ever constant lite versions, and the increasingly sneaky advertising, user review has never been so needed.

Not everything with the free or lite stamp are scams or demos. Apps that allow previews of full content are annoying since they usually stop their demo right before they’re useful or entertaining.

Here are some that still have that banner of demo but are extensive enough to use happily:

Almost any classic classroom time-waster can be found for free. Dots, tic-tac-toe, Sudoku and hangman can’t be intruded upon by money mongers and should be standards already on your device. You should also never pay for your favorite board games. Flipside5, Inc. offers free and premium versions of

some of your childhood favorites without forcing you to buy the full version to enjoy a quick game.

If you’ve adapted to modern society and need a bit more stimulus than X’s and O’s, Raptisoft brings some very colorfully animated worlds to your fingertips. Taking a new spin on slots, a chance puzzler “Get Lucky,” gives a less frustrating alternative to pull lever and lose. It also doesn’t hurt that the text is bubbly and rainbow. A decent amount of puzzles and a requirement of skill makes this game last long enough to keep your attention for a few days.

If you’re the type who actually uses their apple mobile to play games then you can’t pass up Trundle. Made by Mobile Bros LLC it’s an amazing plat-former that prides itself on difficulty. The free version is an abridged one, but that won’t make much of a difference as it will still frustrate you level after level.

You play as a wheel which uses the tilt functions of your device as its controller and tap to jump. The silhouetted landscape with deeply colored background is a stylized visual achievement. It makes you wonder why this game is free in the first place.

Games aren’t for everyone, some prefer their mobile to do something else. Maybe music is your deal. That being

the case you probably already have the Pandora app. It ups your playlist to infinite…provided that you’re in wi-fi range.

If making music is what’s entertaining to you, two free apps to check out are Guitar Free and Beatwave. Guitar Free, developed by Better Days Wireless, simulates an acoustic guitar rather nicely. I’m sure veteran musicians will notice a million problems but what do you want for free. The iPhone and iPod touch just happen to be around the same width of a guitar neck and the strumming and fretting are suitably adapted to a touch screen.

While only a small section of chords can be played at once due to the size of the device, it does give you the full range to work with along with lessons.

Collect3 is responsible for Beatwave. It’s a digital sound workshop. By tapping the sequence of square you want, a wave passes over the squares providing a small loop of tones. Tempo, pitch and sound style can all be adjusted as you see fit. Combining layers of sound, you can make a fully developed, although short, track of music.

For those musically inept, or those who are more suited to holding a brush than an instrument, check out DoodleBuddy. Pinger, Inc. made this

touch sketch pad simple and easy to use. Besides the obvious sensitivity problems when you work on a small surface it can produce some decent doodles. If you’re creative with its use, you can bypass the limits of the app and make some unique art.

Like reading? The e-readers like nook and kindle have their own apps, as does google books. However, you still need an account to transfer purchases or you still have to buy the books in order to read them. iFlow is a free reader app that gives you free books.

Before you jump to the app store know that you still have to buy books despite what the initial description says. iFlow is one of the highest rated reader apps that gives you around fifteen free demo books.

Otherwise you have to pay for additional books. When you get 15 books for free on one of the best apps, why would you complain?

If literature doesn’t interest you, web comics might suit your lower brow preferences. You really can’t get much lower than Cyanide and Happiness. Luckily they have a free app that allows you to view the many Explosm greats. Mark your favorites, filter by date, laugh at things you shouldn’t, and pay nothing for it.

technology February 28, 201114

Ian Mauro Managing editor

Louie GaitanContributing Writer

Cars Not in Tune With SYNC Feature

Free apps save you money without compromising quality

The Perks of Free Apps

Drivers experience problems with latest automobile software

sportsFebruary 28, 2011 15

The Super Bowl’s over, Spring Training is just getting under way, and be honest, would you really read a hockey article? The NBA season is at its midway point and, coming on the heels of the most turbulent off-season in league history, there are a few trends, stars, and surprises that have emerged.

The breakout stars of this year’s NBA season have been some easy calls: Russell Westbrook and Derek Rose who were both projected to be All-Stars this year. Amar’e Stoudemire has been a multiple time All Star and All-NBA second team but he’s playing at an NBA caliber and doing it without All World point guard Steve Nash for the first time in his career. Lamarcus Aldridge has put up monster numbers all years, crucial considering the loss of franchise player Brandon Roy, and Kevin Love has been a double-double machine leading the league in rebounding as well as being in the top five in three point shooting.

The real treat of this year’s season, has been the play of some of this year’s rookies. Demarcus Cousins has had some big games for Sacramento and thirty ninth overall pick Landry Fields has been the steal of this year’s draft providing the Knicks with energy, savvy, and skill that

no one could have predicted. He leads all guards in the NBA in rebounding. Still, he is behind number one overall pick John Wall who’s shown flashes of brilliance (while healthy) for a truly awful Washington team, and breakout star Blake Griffin.

The man has earned himself his own paragraph. He is the single biggest attraction in the NBA today, doing the impossible on a nightly basis and, accomplishing the seemingly more impossible, making the Clippers a relevant

topic in LA again. If there’s one guy in the league you will make sure to DVR, this is the guy. Griffin has exploded onto the scene in a way few have before Of course, it helps that the team that shares a home court with Blake, the two-time defending champion Lakers, are looking old and it seems as if their championship hopes are in serious peril. The Thunder, despite being stacked with young stars, have played inconsistent defense all season and have not played up to their preseason expectations.

In the East, the big surprise has been the play of the Knicks who have distinguished themselves as a playoff caliber team. After an early season trade, the Magic have been dreadfully inconsistent and painfully mediocre as have the Atlanta Hawks. The crème of the East are the Celtics and Heat.

The Celtics are talented, playoff tested, seasoned, and cohesive. They have a ton of depth off the bench, especially in the paint (where big bodies are at a premium). Sharpshooter Ray Allen just recently became the all-time leader in three pointers.

The Heat, after a slow start, have finally started gelling and at times, look like the indefensible team everyone was predicting over the summer. They are one of the clear favorites to contend for the championship because of their concentrated star power as well as the versatility of the role players coming off of their bench. They are a spectacle when clicking.

Of course the biggest story of the NBA season is the new address of Carmelo Anthony. The Anthony saga had extended for months in a very public fashion. When New Jersey Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov (‘Melo’s biggest suitor) publicly announced the Nets’ withdrawal from negotiations, the Knicks were left to land the prized free agent. Now that the Knicks have ‘Melo, he and Stoudemire could go a long way in making the Knicks more than just watchable, they could be contenders for the first time in this millennium.

Chayim Tauber Staff Writer

The NBA Season Hits its Stride The turbulence of the off-season and the season startup is thankfully behind it