Zorbing, Reading, "Green"-ing

Recently the Rolling Stonehill got the chance to catch up with Andrew Norkiewicz, who's currently studying at Oxford University in England.  Read all about his amazing experiences below- from country hopping, to "Fire Shots," to getting the chance to roll in a zorbing ball!

RS: How has your abroad experience been so far? What places across the world have you explored? 

AN: My abroad experience so far has been extremely diverse and I am very glad that it

Bodleian Library

has been. I have mixed a lot of academic work (I now know the inside of the Bodleian library better than MacPhaidin) with sport, volunteer work, and travel. Though I have not had much time during term to travel, I managed to make my way around England (Stonehenge, London, Bath) as well as Galway, Ireland in the fall semester. In the spring I was able to spend a week in Vienna, Salzburg, and Munich and I have been currently living in Wales on an organic farm for over a month now.

RS: What’s the craziest thing you’ve done abroad yet? 

AN: If my parents are reading: On Easter Sunday I ran on a high coastal path in Wales that took me onto cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. I ran until the sun set over the ocean and Welsh headlands and was accompanied by four wild horses at one point. If my parents aren’t reading: in Vienna I went to a dive bar that offered a “Fire Shot” for only a euro or so. I thought it was just something that would burn on the way down. Rather, it was a shot of alcohol that was lit on fire while in my mouth. All I can say is that Brother Mike’s should invest in this.

RS: What are you excited most about to bring back to Stonehill?

Water zorbing

AN: Two things. Farming and water zorbing. Working on an organic farm in Wales for over a month has been one of the greatest aspects of being abroad. It has been a great break from bookwork and it has given me a variety of practical skills which have helped me to develop a much more comprehensive understanding of my academic studies. I am very much looking forward to returning to Stonehill with what I’ve learned abroad about sustainability, global perspective of environmental issues, and organic growing in order to help make Stonehill a greener college.

On a more important note: I would very much like to start an initiative that would see the ice-skating rink in front of the science center to be changed into a large pool during the warmer months and used as a water-zorbing station for students. During the Mansfield Ball at Oxford, such a station was created and I can honestly say: running around in a human-sized hamsterball on top of a pool of water was probably one of the greatest/claustrophobic/nauseating experiences of my life.

Carolyn Meklenburg '14
Image credit: Guardian.co.uk

Away We Go

Stonehill's own Rex Macipinlac is at it again!  This Spring, Rex's newest work to hit the world's eardrums is called Celebrate Your Soul.  A bright "west coast rap inspired life anthem, dazzled with references to Super Mario, Ramen, and Armani suits," this song from his newest EP Full Bloom Universe speaks on all kinds pop culture frequently discussed today.  Commenting on everything from Barack Obama to ideas about the apocalypse, the track is both humorous and introspective, all while preaching the resounding message that each day should be "celebrated."  Check it out below, and keep an eye out for Full Bloom Universe!

Cultural Osmosis: Gaining Perspective and Acculturation Through Travel

Over Spring break, I travelled farther than Virginia for the first time in my life, going abroad to Germany with my fellow LC members. Leading up to our travel, I felt nothing but anxiety and fear: What if the plane we fly on crashed? What if I am stuck sitting next to someone with body odor? What if I get the window seat and have to force the person next to me to get up multiple times because I need to utilize the facilities? What if I lose my luggage? What if I can’t find anything to eat? And the list goes on. Everything that someone who has not travelled before worries about, came across my mind. After a lengthy flight, we touched down in Munich with no problem, easing my anxieties partially. We then left the airport and headed towards our bus, and as I looked around at the second largest city in all of Germany, I realized how life changing an experience I was going to have: gaining perspective and cultural diversity through my travels.

Travelling to Germany had its obvious advantages: the chance to see more historical German landmarks than most will ever see in their life in the course of 13 days, the opportunity to experience a vibrant and youthful German nightlife, the chance to sample a new cuisine, the chance to test the language skills I have been honing all year in my German class, and the ability to check something off my bucket list, leaving the United States and going abroad. These were all amazing advantages and experience gained from our time in the Vaterland, but upon arriving back here at Stonehill I found I have gained something even more valuable: perspective. I have lived on the South Shore my whole life, and have rarely left without the company of family. Going to Germany threw me into a new culture, and allowed me to see how others live beyond the Stonehill, and Southern Massachusetts bubble.

I observed many things about the Germans, but there are a particular few worth mentioning here. The first thing I noticed is their impeccable time management skills: whether it was a tour guide, member of the hotel staff, or a waiter, all the Germans I encountered were timely and conscious of the hour. The beauty of their precision in regards to their schedules was that they were not on time because they were constantly in a rush as we often are here in the states, rather they moved at a normal pace and yet were never late. Germans also place a large emphasis on utility, be it their vehicles, their showers, their souvenirs, you name it, they were all well-made and built to last. Germans also treat money different than we do, when one prepares to pay at a restaurant you pay right at the table, you don’t send your payment off and wait for the waiter or waitress to come back, it all happens right in front of you in a shockingly transparent process. It is also not a shock to a server if they receive no tip, for their wages are high enough as it is so they do not have to work strictly for gratuities, they make a respectable wage no matter what you tip them. Perhaps most shocking to Americans, nearly every German restrooms require a fee for entry. This may sound obnoxious, but these restrooms were kept impeccably clean and stocked with nearly every amenity one could imagine. Germany was just an entirely different world, and I liked it. It was amazing because even the most trivial of tasks such as paying a waiter or using the bathroom were the polar opposite of what I was used to, and therefore an experience worth having.

I do not mean to downplay the significance of my time abroad by highlighting such specificities, but I would like to use them as a springboard to explain the more broad societal themes of Germany. Through my day to day interactions, I realized the German people place an emphasis on utility, transparency, punctuality, a normal and deliberate pace, cleanliness, cordiality, and the ability to make a respectable living despite one’s profession. Not to beat a dead horse, but can any of us say that we have never commented on the lack of such characteristics in our own country? I know that as Americans we like to go it alone, but maybe we can learn more from the Europeans than we may think.

Brendan Monahan '15

Image credit: Brendan Monahan

Who does fake news better?

If you frequent Rolling Stone’s web site as often as I do, than you are well acquainted with their infamous top 50 lists, top 50 guitarists, top 50 hip hop songs etc. Their most recent list published was “The 50 Funniest People Now”, full of today’s greatest comedic minds such as Chris Rock, Louis C.K., and Tina Fey. The list seemed well thought out and assembled, until I reached the top 5. Both Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert had placed in the top 5, but Colbert at number 2 and Stewart at number 4. I have to be honest, for a moment I was speechless.

Jon Stewart has been on the air since I was 6 years old and Colbert since I started junior high school. Since I was old enough to, I have always had an appreciation for comedy and politics, so you can imagine why these programs have been stalwart favorites of mine for so long. I have spent many a night watching these shows back to back, laughing until I cry over the years and yet also noticing the subtle changes and adjustments that each show has undergone, Stewart constantly making new stars in the comedy world through the famous “correspondent” role on his show, and Colbert giving the world renowned “Colbert Bump” to any who he sees fit. Before high school, I became obsessed with The Colbert Report, watching it every night at 11:30 in my bedroom before I fell asleep. At the time, I tried to watch The Daily Show too, but it just couldn’t hold my attention. I loved Colbert because he was the epitome of hyperbole, never breaking his ridiculous and unyielding conservative character he had modeled after Bill O’Reilly. His jokes mocking our beloved political system were pure sarcasm, and made me laugh uncontrollably. And yet, by the time I reached high school me and Stephen had lost touch, and suddenly a new funny man came to fill the comedic void in my heart: Jon Stewart.

As I got older, I came to appreciate Stewart for all the reasons I had hated him before. As I matured, I became more interested in the real news that Stewart was covering in a satirical manner, than the utterly ridiculous antics of Colbert which were getting a bit old to me as the years went on. Since then, I have remained a fan of both shows, but I live for my 30 minute lunch break between classes from Tuesday to Thursday when I can watch the episode of The Daily Show from the night prior.

Returning to the Rolling Stone list, I feel that a mistake was made placing Colbert above Stewart for multiple reasons. The first being that there would be no Stephen Colbert without Jon Stewart! Colbert was originally a correspondent on The Daily Show, and through his on air antics with Stewart became far better known than his multiple appearances on Whose Line Is It Anyway. Stewart provided a platform for Colbert to display his comedic genius, one that Stewart essentially helped create. I also believed Stewart to be funnier because he doesn’t put on the same show every single night. Each night Stewart covers a different kind of story with a different comedic approach, be it in a gut splitting dialogue with Larry Wilmore or John Hodgman, or a video compilation narrated by Stewart’s classic rants. While Colbert seems to go through the same routine each night, receiving a standing ovation as the show begins, ranting in character for two segments sometime outright or through segments like “The Word”, and then interviewing someone also while in character. I feel that Stewart deserves recognition as the better comedian because he can make both the ridiculous and delicate news topics humorous, and therefore easier to discuss.  Colbert’s constant sarcasm and hyperbole, his ridiculousness for a lack of a better word, can be annoying at times and requires far less creativity than Stewart’s method of comedy. Stewart’s varied approach to both the ridiculous and the delicate news story give him a comedic edge over Colbert, which should have placed him higher on the list above his protégé.

Despite my ramblings, I am still avid member of Colbert Nation and will no doubt be forcing my roommate to watch both programs with me tonight, laughing in a manner that can only be induced by the ingenious comedy of the two most famous fake newsmen in the world.

Brendan Monahan '15

Image credit: Pulse2

Popular Folk Rock: A Breath of Fresh Air to the Music Industry

The day after Christmas, my brother and I went to see The Roots at the House of Blues in Boston. We were lucky to catch them on a short touring stint as they took some time off from The Jimmy Fallon Show, seeing them was like a blast from the past. The last time I had seen them perform was at least 3 or 4 years ago. But anyways, per the usual The Incredible Roots Crew was, well...incredible. As my brother and I left the show and headed to the parking garage near Gold’s Gym where we had parked, he popped in the new Lumineers CD and “Ho-Hey” came on. Which got me to thinking: is folk rock making a comeback on the popular music scene?

Now let me first say, that I understand that the concept of folk rock is one that is very fluid and that differs between listeners. But when I think folk rock, I think Bob Dylan, acoustic Paul Simon, Neil Young, some of CSNY or James Taylor’s work. Most of this music has faded into the past, still being listened to by children of the 1960’s and 70’s, or even some of us in college now. Nonetheless, the last decade of popular music has been dominated by artists such as Ke$ha, Flo Rida, Pit Bull, and the list goes on. And yet, in the last 3 years we have seen a re-emergence of the more traditional sense of artists and musicians onto the popular music scene beginning in 2010 with the release of Mumford & Sons’ first album in the U.S., “Sigh No More”. All of a sudden, these foreign folk rockers were flooding American radio waves with amazing tunes like “Little Lion Man” and “Timshel”. To me, this marked a turning point, as what I perceived as “real music” (no offense to other popular artists, or their fans) was becoming popular. I could turn on a popular radio station, and actually hear a song or two that I enjoyed.

I think we have come to another impasse fairly recently, as the Lumineers’ new hit single mentioned above becomes more popular by the day, with I am sure many more to follow. It is hard to put my thumb on it, but pop music is undergoing some sort of progression or transformation, one in which we are getting back in touch with our musical roots. This may either be a passing fad, or perhaps a new era or popular music, either way I plan to enjoy it while it lasts. I will begin by returning to the House of Blues on February 4^th to see the Lumineers bring down the house, bass drum, banjo and all.

 

Brendan Monahan '15

 

Image credit: Just Jared

That Gnawing Thought: Zombies in Popular Culture

Looking at bestselling books and popular movies, a person might conclude that vampires are in style. But amongst the ranks of the undead, vampires are miles behind another group of ghouls when it comes to overall cultural significance. From video games like Left 4 Dead to the television series The Walking Dead, zombies are on the rise out of the grave and into public consciousness. Interest in these shambling horrors has spiked in recent years and only continues to grow. As I write this, I can glance and spy a book I plan on reading over winter break on my shelf: Theories of International Politics and Zombies, written by Professor Daniel W. Drezner. Disbelief at my own dorkiness aside, the truth of the matter should shock you. Zombies have even penetrated academia.

"Braiinnnnsssss...."

Why such a fascination with zombies? What sets them apart from the witches, vampires, ghosts, and demons? I have a few suggestions. Scientists argue that there is at least the possibility of zombies existing. Similar occurrences are no stranger to biologists; take the fungus Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, for example. That is the main difference between zombies and the rest: they are plausible. There is nothing magical about them. They could exist. Remember the story on the news this of the cannibal who devoured the face of a homeless man? More than a few people grew nervous about the possibility that this was some type of zombie. Even when the police announced it was bath salts that caused the man to act in such a way, it does not erase that fact that our minds jumped to the possibility of a zombies.

Zombies are also unlike other creatures in the effects that produce on a society. Recent depictions of vampires, for example, show them coexisting in the world with regular people. They merge with our own institutions or create new ones, sometimes threatening that of humans, but the world continues onward. Zombies change everything. There is little chance of coexistence; humanity either survives or dies. Typical social structures disappear completely in an outbreak. It is a crisis that alters the world in a horrifying and irreversible way.

I believe this is the crux of the matter. Zombies are considered fictional, but the disaster they could create is very real. In entertaining the idea of a zombie apocalypse, it raises questions about how prepared the world is for other catastrophes. A pandemic infection, for example, is a very realistic threat to our entire species, especially in this age of globalization. Zombies allow us to tackle difficult questions about public policy that need solutions now, before the crisis emerges. Thinking about dangers to the entire human race makes even the best uncomfortable and leaves rest either in a panic or unable to comprehend its magnitude. Zombies help bridge that gap; by using zombies as a substitute, we can start discussion topics that would normally remain best left unsaid.

Stepping back from the grand scale and peering into the more personal interest in zombies, they also present individuals with the chance to think about circumstances they never had a chance to before. Could I survive if society collapsed? Could I find food and water? Could I use a weapon? Would I kill someone, even to save myself? What would happen to my family and friends? What skills or knowledge do I have that give me an advantage? Larger moral dilemmas emerge: would you kill an infected loved one to spare them turning into a zombie? Would you kill yourself? Does individual need or the common good matter more? What about liberty and security?  If you even manage to survive, do you bring children into such a world? If you could, do you rebuild society? How do you shape it? During a zombie apocalypse, you and the world are one giant tabula rasa. Zombies allow people to ask challenging questions about themselves in a fictional setting. Placed outside of reality, a person can explore questions that they would otherwise never have a reason to entertain.

Zombies will outlast vampires in terms of culture significance. Vampires are like shiny baubles (after all, they do sparkle now) that are more show than substance. Zombies let us discuss both larger problems and personal dilemmas by creating circumstances that are fictional but nonetheless applicable to other disasters. It is a thought exercise in which all can participate, a philosophical experiment that all can understand and contemplate. Vampires, demons, and ghosts are simply too supernatural. When the credits roll, they and the horror they bring slowly dissipate away. Zombies, and the big questions they force us to consider, linger much longer.

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Joey Gale '13

Spotify Has Forced me to Admit it

Spotify has Forced Me to Admit It: I Have a slight Appreciation for Modern Technology

I have often made it clear in prior pieces published, and even in general conversation amongst those who can bear to hear me speak for an extended period of time: I have an absolute and utter disdain for modern technology. By my view, modern technology has slowly robbed all of us of our ability to appreciate the wonderful sound of silence, or even to focus for an extended period of time. Rather than e-mails I wish to write letters, rather than text messages and phone calls, I prefer face to face conversation and interaction with the rest of the human race. I seem to hold the opposite opinion of many, in that I do not want to be in constant contact with the world around me. I would like to be able to lie down on the beach or in a grassy knoll and stare at the sky, without having to hear the incessant buzzing, beeping, and ringing of a cellular device. I would have lived better in an age where the most advanced technology available was the telegraph. Nonetheless, every once in a while something will come along that will force you to question, and perhaps even violate your most basic principles: for me that was Spotify.

I can still remember the day I first met Spotify: it was a cold, rainy day in January. The Sem was ever so quiet on a Thursday afternoon, and my friend Kraig and I were relaxing  in his room listening to music and doing homework. After a solid round of Frank Sinatra’s Live at the Sands, an advertisement began playing with a catchy acoustic melody and a cheery sounding fellah speaking about something called “Spotify”. Now you can imagine my confusion, I had experienced Itunes before, which obviously entailed no advertisements. I had even tried Pandora Radio for a short spell, but after hearing Israel Kamakawiwo'ole’s Somewhere Over the Rainbow nearly 20 times on Jack Johnson radio in one sitting, I quit on that too.  I had come to despise these services due to their costliness or inefficiency, but Spotify seemed different. At first glance, it appeared simple, straight forward, and perhaps most importantly, free! Once Kraig gave me a little background on the service, I sprinted out of his room to my own (Upper A35 to be precise), and downloaded the program onto my own laptop. And so began my love affair with Spotify.

For me, Spotify has come to represent all that is good in modern technology. It still seems baffling to me that a music program could be available to the public that allowed them unlimited access to an astoundingly large catalog of artists and material, ranging from Ella Fitzgerald to Wale, and it isn’t illegal. I consider the interface of the system even more user friendly than Itunes, and it even has a radio feature that kicks Pandora’s tail. An on top of all that, must I mention it again? IT IS FREE!!! Spotify has helped me to discover artists I had never heard of before and delve deeper into the catalogs of artists I have loved since I was a child. I have come to appreciate the program so much, that I pay the 10 dollars a month so I can access Spotify premium. This subscription allows me to listen without advertisements, access the program on my phone, and even download entire playlists to my mobile devices so that I can listen to my music anytime, anywhere, Wi-Fi or no Wi-Fi. Spotify blended the positive aspects of services like Grooveshark, Pandora, and Itunes to create the greatest music providing program known to man.

So congratulations Spotify, you have forced me to sacrifice my core principles and beliefs for the musical convenience you provide. But, I can’t even lie, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

___

Brendan Monahan '15

The Tallest Man in Scotland

Anyone who knows Nick Howard is already familiar with his passion for music, poetry and the arts.  Although campus is not quite as merry without him this semester, we were eager to hear all about his cultural adventures while abroad in Scotland, and even heard he got to meet one of his musical heroes in the process- nearly by accident!

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RS: What influenced you to go to Scotland?

NH: I was influenced to go to Scotland because of the academic reputation of St. Andrews. I did not really process it as being part of Scotland or the UK. I figured that I knew enough about "British" (what I really meant was English) culture that it would not be an issue. It was one of those I will figure it out when I get there things.  

RS:  So we heard you're doing a radio show over there. Tell us a little bit about what you play and discuss on the air.

NH: Yes, I have brought my radio program "The Beach" across the pond with me. It is basically the same show I have at Stonehill, a mix of modern alternative and folk, classic rock, classic indie (The Smiths), a little punk, and everything in between. Basically the mantra for the show is, to quote Mick Jagger, "It's only Rock n Roll, but I like it"

RS:  What's been the biggest culture shock from being in a new country?

NH: In my opinion, culture shock can kind of be like an earthquake, sometimes there are large tremors and sometimes there are just small aftershocks. At the beginning there was a huge quake of "Oh my God, what is this country? Everything is different?" Now I simply enjoy taking notice in the different phrases, expressions, foods, customs, spelling, and culture overall. To summarize, I have continued to learn about the culture, the only difference is now it does not overwhelm me, I embrace it. 

We see you recently got to meet the Tallest Man on Earth. Can you tell us a little about that?

NH: Yes, I did meet The Tallest Man On Earth. Probably one of the greatest moments of my life. To make a long story short, my friend and I ended up in the same cafe as him, so when he stood up from where he was sitting, we went over, introduced ourselves, chatted a wee bit, and got a photo. He was just such a relaxed, yet still so focused guy. He had it in his eye and it all came out in the show.

The "Tallest Man on Earth", Kristian Matsson

RS:  Have you discovered any new music or art in Europe that you wouldn't have picked up in America?

NH: I wish I could say, but unfortunately no. You could maybe count my re-interest in The Who, but that is just because I love 60's rock, before it became big and bloated in the 70's. What has really happened is I go through periods where I listen to marathons of American music. I will devour the catalogs of Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, Neil Young (technically he is Canadian), Bon Iver, Iron & Wine, Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, and Passion Pit. You get the picture. I like to hear my country in my music choice, both classic rock and modern alternative. My goal is to get into one Scottish band that captures what I feel that the sound of St. Andrews is.
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Nicole Colantonio '14
Image credit: Nick Howard and yetimusic.net

Function Meets Style in London

Meg Lewis '14 has always been a fashion presence at Stonehill...and this semester, she has continued to experiment with looks and styles while studying abroad in London.  While still keeping up with the College Fashionista website by submitting regular posts, Meg's style is still making an impact back in the states.  We got the chance to chat with her recently about her experiences with style and fashion on the other side of the pond.
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RS: Describe your style in three words. Has it changed since coming to London?

ML: AH this is tough, probably "function meets style." I think it definitely has changed a little since being here. Living literally in the middle of London gives you a wide range of other people's styles on a daily basis, and I quickly began to realize people really don't care what other people think of what they wear, they wear what they want and that is that! It was eye-opening. I have pretty much worn whatever I pleased to a degree before coming here, but I have definitely stepped it up in the personal style department.

RS: What is the biggest difference you've noticed between European and American fashion?

ML: Everyone has their own way of wearing what they want to wear, while at the same time remaining very functional and comfortable. Living right in the city has taught me a lot about layering and wearing functional pieces, especially in London where it literally could rain, hail, and be 70 degrees within the span of 8 hours. I have definitely learned my lesson to always make sure my bag is big enough for my umbrella.

RL: Have you noticed big style similarities or differences in the different countries of Europe?

ML: The men are so impeccably groomed and styled pretty much everywhere in Europe. I know returning home will be a rude awakening in this respect. When thinking of the different countries in Europe, the only thing I think I can really put my finger on is that when I went to Prague, when people went out at night, they were significantly less dressed up as they are in London or Paris. However, girls seemed to be dressed to the nines when going out in Galway, Ireland which really took me by surprise!

RS: So I hear you got to go to Fashion Week, what was that experience like?

ML: I did! It was amazing. I got the chance to attend a trend show at the Somerset House in Central London which was so amazingly cool. It was right at the tail-end of Fashion week, so they were summarizing the different trends seen in the past week with pieces from some of the shows. I write a personal fashion blog as well as doing a remote internship for CollegeFashionista, so I took a bunch of pictures for those, which were both really well recieved.

RS: Give us a hint as to what might be big this Spring season.

ML: Something that was really present were prints, especially stripes and polkadots. It's hard to believe these designers don't collaborate on their collections considering it seemed that stripes were the staple of Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, and Tommy Hilfiger, three pretty big names. Also, for a change of pace, there was quite a bit of leather on the runways for the spring, which is usually a fabric considered for fall, so I am pretty excited to see how that translates.

RS: Fashion aside, what has been the biggest culture shock since coming to Europe? And what things do you like the most that we don't have in the States?

ML: Probably the biggest thing that shocked me was how easily we are spotted out as Americans, and how that is typically a bad thing. I also was shocked, and excited, by how well dressed everyone was for class every single day! There were Americans in my classes, but also a bunch of English and other international students, and instead of a sea of sweatpants, it was a stampede of heeled boots and wedges!
What I'll probably miss the most is how much people care about their sense of style on a daily basis, and living in a city and having the ability to see so many different things within walking distance.  Also these things called Jaffa Cakes, they are orange and chocolate flavored cookies that are TOO DIE FOR. I will be bringing many back to the Stonehill community to open their worlds to the wonder. I miss them already.

Lewis on historic Abbey Road

You can check out Meg's style and fashion blog at http://clothezonelayers.blogspot.com and check out her posts for College Fashionista here.
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Nicole Colantonio '14
Image credit to Meg Lewis

Don’t Be Afraid to do Your Civic Duty!

I recently voted in my first ever official election, and what a thrill it was! I was out for the day with my father, and before I returned to our beautiful campus, I went to North Junior High School in Brockton to cast my vote. I walked through the double doors, showed the kind elderly woman who was working the front table my license, she crossed my name off the list and handed me my very own ballot. For years I had enviously watched my parents enter those curtained booths and select their preferred candidate, and now it was my turn. As I filled in the blank dot next to my preference, I got a real adrenaline rush. I left the building feeling splendidly accomplished and proud.

My question is this: why doesn’t anyone else want to feel this great? I have been talking to many people around campus, even some of those who are registered to vote, and they are actively choosing not to vote. I do understand that many in our generation view American electoral politics with great disdain, and justifiably so due to the dirty campaigning, a lack of fulfilled promises from past candidates, or even just the inconvenience of having to head back home or get an absentee ballot to vote. Despite such deterrents, we should not allow such trivial things to stop us from doing our civic duty. There are very few things in this country that present absolutely equal opportunities to all individuals despite their backgrounds. Those who are wealthy can buy more than those who are of modest means, people with the right connections can get a particular job or position through whom they know leaving all the candidates applying in the dust, but every single person in the country can vote and every vote is equal to one another.

I will not try and say that this year’s election is any more important than others have been, every Presidential election plays a role in determining the future of our great nation, that is a pretty big deal! It does not matter what your political views are, or if you have none at all. I am merely advocating that everyone capable should vote, if you don’t like either candidate write in Mickey Mouse or Paul Newman! It is more the principle of the issue that concerns me. Millions of men and women have died for our civil liberties, particularly to vote. There are individuals dying every day in various countries across the world fighting for their own right to vote, not a privilege, but a right that they have never had the pleasure of experiencing. So all those who are capable of doing so, go vote and bask in the glory that is our civil liberties as Americans, in honor of all those who died so we may have such a right, and all those who continue to fight for such rights even now.

Brendan Monahan class of 2015
Image credit: http://www.theresolve.org/blog/archives/3071028041

Poem: Taking and Forsaking

Editors' Note: Kristen sent us this poem she wrote for a class... it's an great look at the economic and cultural structure of our society. Just think: What can we do to fix the way our culture values resources?

Taking and Forsaking

Is it money for the making or resources for the taking?
Right now I am sure that the resources are worth more
But it is money they wish to be making.
The poor are left without a choice, they also lack a truly heard voice,
Unto them this business is forsaking.
The prices are high and the pesticides strong—there is something so wrong
For our economy is truly flaking.
The more that business takes—the fewer land, streams and lakes
And the future sees insufficient supplies for our baking.
Of this I am certain; we must draw down this power-surged curtain
For the health of our land is truly aching.
With our nation divided sustainers must stay united to defend this great land for its own 
   sake at hand
For the future is ours for remaking.
Despite property rights and gritty monetary fights
The land is not ours to keep staking.
With a broader horizon our country must wizen
To prevent this catastrophe from waking.
Preservation is vital so let us quit feeling entitled;
Living more simply is the true answer to our ecological breaking.
And so this is my ode to the start of a new economic code:
We have but one planet—now do you see what you’re taking?

By Kristen Kennedy

Your Voice

By Lauren Mahncke

Over the past few weeks, despite the lack of mainstream media attention, Occupy Wall Street has garnered up a lot of discussion about the current state of affairs in the United States. Despite differences in opinion on the movement, one thing that can be said about the movement is that this group of protesters is making their voices heard. And in a society that often prides fitting-in and conformity, a great lesson can be learned from the Occupy movement— silence does not set you free.

I believe that the one thing everyone has in this world is a voice, and this voice gives you power. When you start to figure out your voice, you start to figure out who you are.  When you begin to speak out, it’s a lot harder to be ignored. Realistically, one voice cannot change the world. But being a rebel in thought doesn’t get you very far until you begin to speak and act on your voice. And when a lot of voices join together, they become harder to ignore. Even if you don’t think you’re being heard, speechlessness does not protect you, it simply hides you. Only your voice can make your presence known.

For our generation, it is easier than ever to make our voices heard. Blogging in particular is an easy way to get your voice out, especially among your peers. So I invite you, the Stonehill community, to submit your posts to this blog. State your claim, tell the world what you think, and hear what others have to say. You never know who is listening.

"As Long as He Doesn't Hit on Me: Unpacking Heteronormative Culture at Stonehill"

Click the title to be brought to the video page.


Video by: LucyRose Moller, Molly McKitrick, Kaitlin Foley, and Mandy Malachowski

Torpedoed Again, Eh?

by Christina Mondy

Are you one of those people who go on YouTube just to find funny videos? I wouldn’t be surprised. I’m one of those people. However, when I get tired of talented toddlers and animals doing wacky things, there’s always one video that I can rely on to make me laugh every time. When I’m feeling down, I just type “John Lennon in the bathtub” into the search bar.

It brings me to a hilarious clip from my favorite movie, A Hard Day’s Night. It was The Beatles’ first feature film in 1964. The movie is supposedly a realistic yet whimsical portrayal of The Fab Four’s everyday adventures as Britain’s #1 sensation. If you like black and white movies, British comedy, the 60s, quick-witted dialogue and cute boys from Liverpool, this movie is perfect for you. Then again, I recommend it to almost everyone I meet because I’m so certain it will change their life, or something of that nature. Yes, it’s just that good.

I know a lot of music snobs will get annoyed with me for saying this, but after watching A Hard Day’s Night for the 23^rd time I realized that technically The Beatles were the first real boy band. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not calling them the first band that had ever been composed of boys and I’m not calling them lip-syncing dancers. They are, however, the first rock-and-roll band that ever had a ridiculously huge following. In fact, they pretty much set the stage for pop music. If you watch the movie, you’ll know what I mean. For instance, in the first scene they are being chased by rabid fan-girls. In the last scenes they are playing a concert on TV in front of a live studio audience full of screaming girls (who, apparently, were not actresses but actual fans). While pretty much all of today’s big artists have big fan-bases, I can think of two recent girl-magnets that get similar attention: The Jonas Brothers and Justin Bieber. Their talent is debatable, but whether you like it or not, these boys are so popular that they have even wormed their way into our vocabulary. (Oh my Jonas! I don’t belieb it!)

After making these comparisons, I am forced to slyly mention that the Jonas boys put out their own movie, Jonas Brothers: The 3D Concert Experience, in 2009. Then, of course, we have Biebs’s new 3D flick Never Say Never. Both of the aforementioned are concert movies which also include documentary footage of the stars. While A Hard Day’s Night is fiction (and, in my opinion, way more entertaining) the premise is similar, as is the general exploitation of their fame. It’s funny that even back in 1964 popular musicians got movie roles for their charm.

As a final comparison, I can’t help but notice that a lot of people hate on Justin Bieber and The Jonas Brothers today. In fact, to demonstrate how overrated and talentless they are, people often relate them to bands like The Beatles. I wonder if these people realize that The Beatles initially received the same criticism compared to other musical legends. It seems that history repeats itself. So, what comes next? What is the next big thing? All I know is…it just won’t be the same as John Lennon in the bathtub.

OBITUARY- Thailand Restaurant

OBITUARY

Thailand Restaurant | South Easton, MA

A great restaurant within walking distance of Stonehill’s campus, Thailand Restaurant closed on Wednesday, February 23, 2011 in the late evening hours. It was 21 years of age. Though the specific circumstances of death are unclear, employees close to the restaurant revealed it had to close because they were unable to renew the lease. Thailand Restaurant is survived by numerous employees who are always friendly, attentive, and hospitable to both new and returning customers. Thailand Restaurant offered excellent food at very reasonable prices. It was well known for amazing Pad Thai, super curry dishes, and an excellent all-you-can-eat buffet. Thailand Restaurant was a great getaway for students and local community members alike. It was known as a great spot where families of Stonehill students can go when they come to visit for a weekend, or perhaps after move-in day in the Fall or move-out day in the Spring. A place where students could escape the bland weekend cafeteria food, it was something different and delicious. It was an ideal location for a date, with a pleasant atmosphere. It was respected for not following the norm near a college campus of being either a pizza place or a liquor store, but instead being a culturally diverse and more adult/real-life dining experience. Thailand Restaurant, you will be missed dearly by many

Allyson Hansgate

Facebook Status Categories

By Erin Horan

The “Dear__, Sincerely, ___”

Dear Alarm Clock, Please feel free to take a vacation day tomorrow.

Sincerely, Lazy Ass.

The Sympathy Plea

Soooo sick today, can barely move ugh!

The “I Have Friends!”

Evelyn Brown and Jessica Smith are the funniest people in the world!!

The Shameless Plug

My band’s playing at McFarrell’s tonight, come check us out!

The Sports Update No One Needs

THE STEELERS ARE IN THE SUPER BOWL WOOT WOOT

The Weather Update No One Needs

It’s snowing!

The I Feel Guily for (staying up so late watching YouTube, drinking my body weight in alcohol, eating that entire pizza) so I’m Getting It Off My Chest

Four shots of vodka + five beers in two hours = bad idea

The I Need Plans Tonight!

Anyone going out tonight?

The I Have Plans Tonight!

Going out in Boston tonight with my besties!

The I Had So Much Fun Last Night!

Had a blast in Boston last night with my besties!

The This is How Much I Hate Homework/ Grad School Apps/ Work!

Why, why, why do I always leave writing essays to the last minute…

The Happy Holiday!

Happy President’s Day!

The Status of the Week

It’s Sister Week! If you have a sister who you love and will love forever, copy and post this status!! Or it’s like you’re saying you really don’t love your sister!!

The Optimum Way to Contact Me in the Near Future

Lost my phone so facebook me! or

Will be away from my computer this weekend so text me!

The Obscure Song Lyrics

“And the seasons, they go round and round, and the painted ponies go up and down…”

Annnnd of course:

The Intimate Details of My Daily Life

Just ate lunch (turkey sandwich with mayo and chips) now time to clip my toenails! They’re disgusting!