Player Interview: Nataly Mendoza: Freshman Paulina Phelps sits down with senior tennis captain Nataly Mendoza

Posted by Paulina Phelps

Freshman Paulina Phelps sits down with senior tennis captain Nataly Mendoza to discuss the team's fall season and how it wrapped up, her tennis career, and what the future holds.
PP: How long have you been playing tennis?
NM: Since I was nine; quite some time now!
PP: Where are you from and what year at Skidmore are you?
NM: I'm a senior and I'm from San Francisco, California.
PP: How's senior year feeling so far? Can you give any advice to soon to be seniors on ways to prepare/what to expect?
NM: It's a different feel. It definitely feels like time is flying by. Something I'm definitely learning how to deal with is looking ahead to not only just choosing classes but also to where I'm going to be and what I'm going to do in the real world.
PP: What do you play on the tennis team?
NM: I play singles and doubles with Lee Ford, who is a junior, about the same amount.
PP: How would you describe the dynamic of the women's tennis team at Skidmore?
NM: It's a little different from years past only in the sense that it's a very tight knit group. We've always gotten along and there have never been huge personality clashes, but this year everyone is pretty great friends. We all hangout outside of tennis a lot which adds a cool feel to the team.
PP: How is the team doing so far this season? How is fall season different from spring?
NM: Our fall season is all tournaments so in a sense there is a lot of individual wins and defeats but we always take these as team successes and losses. We've had a few pretty big tournaments like the New York State Tournament and the ITA (Intercollegiate Tournament Association) Tournament, which we did really well in. We've also had a few dual matches we've done well in, like our match against RPI, which we won 9-0. Fall season sets up the rankings for the spring so even though we don't play as many matches and it's a shorter season there is still pressure to play well. The spring is when you get into the dual matches typically playing two to three matches a week.
PP: What do you feel is the team's greatest strength? What do you feel is your greatest strength as a player?
NM: I think the greatest strength of the team is the support we have for each other. Win or lose we offer each other great support. Through cheering each other on we help each other get through tough matches and even practices.

PP: How has it been balancing studies as well as athletics?
NM: It's been great. I definitely manage my time much better during tennis season because in-season you've got much more on your plate.
PP: What do you enjoy to do when you're not playing tennis?
NM: Hanging out with friends, just typical stuff.
PP: What is your favorite part of playing tennis at Skidmore?
NM: Having a really supportive group of girls on campus that I can always count on and being able to do something that I love.
PP: What's your favorite thing about Skidmore?
NM: I love the people at Skidmore and the town of Saratoga Springs.
PP: In your opinion does the school support athletics enough?
NM: I think over the years Skidmore has made an increasing effort to support all of our athletic teams and I would like to see this continue and expand!
PP: What has playing tennis taught you over the years?
NM: There's always room for improvement, a lot of room for improvement.
PP: What is your major and what are your plans for after Skidmore?
NM: I'm a health and exercise science major. I'm looking into professions in the medical field but have yet to decide on a career path.
PP: Anything else you would like to say?
NM: I'd like to thank my teammates for a great fall season. The girls pushed me to become better than I ever thought I could be. I love them all.

Hit with the Nationally Ranked Skidmore Men's Tennis Team: Come swing your racket with Skidmore Saturday, Oct. 19

Posted by Julia Schwartz

The Skidmore men's tennis team is offering the opportunity to hit with the members of the team Saturday, Oct. 19th.

It will be a fun morning of instruction and drills from top DIII college players. The men are excited for the opportunity to work with both the College and Saratoga Springs community.

They feel it will be a great way to show and share what the College's men's tennis program is all about. Whether you want pointers, a good workout, or an opportunity to see how you stack up, you can find it here.

The program runs from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Skidmore College Tennis Courts. The juniors program is from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., the beginner adults program is from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and the advanced adults program is from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The team is raising money for their spring break trip in March where they will compete with other top teams from across the country. Clinics are $20 per individual. Private hitting is available for $35. Donations are welcome.

For additional questions please contact Alec Hoblitzell at ahoblitzell@yahoo.com.

Pro-Choice rally held before Senate debate

Posted by Rachel Kim

On Oct. 17 NARAL (National Association for the Repeal of Abortion Laws) Pro-Choice New York, Planned Parenthood and students held a pro-choice rally by the College's main Broadway entrance before the Senate debate took place at the Arthur Zankel Music Center. 

NARAL Pro-Choice NY is a political advocacy organization that has worked with women's organizations, health care groups and legislators to protect reproductive rights and secure access to reproductive health care for the women of New York.

The organization works to organize communities on both a local and state level. Planned Parenthood is a not-for-profit organization and the nation's leading sexual and reproductive health care provider and advocate.

"Even to us the local elections are really key. We're basically bringing information to the people so they know the information and can make voting decisions for themselves," said alumna Emily Zahn '11, who currently works with NARAL Pro-Choice New York.

The organization, along with Planned Parenthood, gathered to support incumbent senator Kirsten Gillibrand, who supports a pro-choice position. Republican challenger Wendy Long holds a pro-life position.

"Supporters have gathered today to show their support of Planned Parenthood and will not stand for the health care of three million women, men and teens nationwide to be jeopardized," said Planned Parenthood Advocates of New York President M. Tracey Brooks.

Also present were students involved with Skidmore Vox: Voices for Planned Parenthood, an organization formed to mobilize students to advocate for reproductive rights on campus. Aside from the rally, Vox has held other events to keep students politically active on campus.

"Vox and Christian Fellowship were co-sponsoring a voter pledge campaign where students come by and basically pledge to vote. Everyone knows what a big election this is, so I don't think there are many students who aren't thinking about it," said Vox President Emily Rooke-Ley '14.

The Senate debate and the rally are all signs of the recent slight increase in student political activeness on campus. Dianne Patterson, who works with Family Planning Advocates of New York State, stressed the importance of student voices.

"These young people have really never known anything but access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare without restriction. Unfortunately, we are being tested now and safe legal abortion is being challenged, and without the young generation coming up to help fight this fight again, forty years later, it would be discouraging, so we are very enthused about having young people partner up with us," Patterson said.

Students and members of the two organizations continued to rally until 7 p.m. at which point they moved to Zankel to watch the debate and support Senator Gillibrand.

"She is an incredible pro-choice champion and it is important to maintain a pro-choice Senate. With this rally we're saying to Senator Gillibrand, 'We understand this is a big deal for you, so welcome to Skidmore'," said Zahn. 

Career Jam to kick off Celebration Weekend: The event will host 81 volunteers to speak with students about their futures

Posted by Adrian Appleman

To kick off Celebration Weekend, the Career Development Center will hold the fourth annual Career Jam, a networking opportunity for students to learn about how to enter potential fields of interest once they are armed with their Skidmore degree.

Approximately 81 volunteer representatives from various firms and organizations, willing to share their industry insights with interested students, will fill the second floor of the Murray-Aikins Dining Hall on Friday afternoon from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

As a collaboration of the Parents Council, the Alumni Association and the Career Development Center, Career Jam consists of volunteers from local businesses, national brands and organizations, Skidmore Parents and Alumni and current employees. In the works since June, the event incorporates the vast network of the extended College community to provide students with a perspective on the various courses professional lives can take after college.

The increase in volunteers, from approximately 40 last year, comes from an increased focus on local businesses.

"We deliberately increased local representatives for students who are looking to intern while in college," said Deborah Loffredo, director of the Career Development Center.

Although some of the companies represented will be hiring, the event is not considered a hiring event. Career Jam centers on building a foundational professional network for students, and assisting in building effective and useful networking skills that can be utilized for the rest of their careers.

"Career Jam is a networking event," said Loffredo, "not a job fair. There are some who are looking to hire, but most are here to talk about their careers. They provide the opportunity to allow students to ask questions like, 'Do I need a graduate degree to enter your field?' or, 'What's a good entry-level job for me to get my foot in the door?' They are there to offer advice, and so many people want to help."

To help build anticipation for the Jam, events on Thursday begin with the What-Not-To-Wear fashion show on the second floor of the dining hall at 6 p.m., an instructional fashion show on how to properly dress in professional environments. Following the show, there will be an informational meeting with alumna Anne Wargo '89, who will provide tips on how to make the most of what will be many students' first networking experience.

Friday, the Jam will be in full swing, beginning with a presentation on the MB-190 course entitled "A Brand Called Me," which focuses on creating an effective, marketable self-image, in Gannett Auditorium at 1 p.m. The Career Development Center will then offer time slots for resume critiques and conducting mock interviews at the Center from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., on a first-come first-serve basis to those who sign up ahead of time at the Center.

"It's never too early to start looking," said Loffredo. "It's never too early to search for internships. Career Jam it not just for Seniors-it is for everyone!" 

U.S. Senate debate held at Arthur Zankel Music Center

Posted by Jesse Shayne

On Oct. 17, the debate between incumbent Democratic senator Kirstin Gillibrand and her challenger Republican Wendy Long, took place at the Arthur Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College immediately following a pro-choice rally outside.

The debate was sponsored by YNN and NY1 (branches of Times Warner Cable) and was moderated by Capital Tonight host Liz Benjamin and Inside City Hall host Errol Louis.

Journalists from the New York Times, the Associated Press, the Albany Times Union and a slew of other news outlets were present, along with 575 spectators-about half of whom were Skidmore students and faculty members, the other half comprised of invitees of YNN and NY1, Skidmore trustees, members of the political world and the public. The event was broadcasted on YNN, NY1 and News 12. It was also streamed on C-Span's website and aired on WNYC Radio.

President Phillip A. Glotzbach started the event with a speech to the immediate audience-prior to the live broadcast-where he emphasized the importance of debates for political and educational purposes and as the foundation of democracy. He thanked the producers and senators and also mentioned the significance of the event to Skidmore.

Liz Benjamin and Errol Louis then took the stage and warmed up the audience with jokes and questions. They asked those present in the auditorium to raise their hands in support of either candidate, to which Gillibrand received an overwhelming majority.

The debate then began, as did the airing, with one-minute opening statements from both candidates. Gillibrand stressed the importance of job growth as the number one concern of the election, and mentioned her belief in fighting for the middle class.

Long emphasized the significance of equality and noted the struggling economy of New York-a testament to Gillibrand's service in her opinion.

The candidates were then asked a number of questions by the moderators pertaining to issues such as the recent attack on the U.S. consulate in Libya, the effectiveness of the stimulus package passed under President Barack Obama, gun control, abortion (and the constitutionality of the Supreme Court's decision in Roe v. Wade), tax-cuts and the economy.

Gillibrand and Long both came out aggressively, interrupting each other often and going over-time on their answers quite frequently. Both stuck to party lines, advocating for their respective party's presidential candidates and their platforms.

"It was interesting how a lot of the issues directly overlapped with the presidential campaign," said Xan Goldberg '13 who was a student assistant at the event.

A lightning round of yes or no questions followed the initial round. Many of the questions contained references to pop culture icons such as twitter and Fifty Shades of Grey, but some were more serious. The candidates were asked if they believed in reinstituting the death penalty in the state of New York to which Gillibrand responded in the negative and Long the affirmative.

A cross-examination round of questions followed in which Gillibrand asked Long if she was willing to break Grover Norquist's GOP anti-tax pledge and Long asked Gillibrand about the recent sexual harassment scandal involving New York State Assemblyman Vito J. Lopez.

The moderators then took back over and asked questions about health care, Iran, U.S. involvement in Afghanistan, hydro-fracking in upstate New York and immigration. The hydro-fracking issue received more discussion time given recent consideration to allow New York hydro-fracking by Governor Andrew Cuomo.

When Long came out in support of fracking with an emphasis on job creation and energy independence she received boos from the audience. Gillibrand took a more modest approach stating that she would not allow fracking in New York until studies have proven it to be safe.

After the last round of questions the candidates made their closing statements and left the stage. Both Senate-hopefuls stuck around to receive questions from the media afterwards.

The event was a collaborative effort between many parties-YNN, NY1, the campaigns and the college. At times the audience applauded and booed despite being asked to remain silent by the moderators, but overall it went smoothly.

"Hosting the debate was a real team effort among Campus Safety, Special Programs, the Communications Office, and, of course, our colleagues at the Zankel Music Center," said Executive Director of Communications Dan Forbush. "It was a great opportunity for our students, giving them a front-row seat in a key political race, and it was a great opportunity for the College to show off Zankel to a vast new audience."

The college placed an emphasis on student involvement in the debate by reserving about 200 tickets for the student body, which were distributed on Oct. 3.

"It was easily accessible for students and free, which was nice," said Leslie Valasquez '14.

Student involvement ranged from spectating to helping run the event. Zankel student ushers were present as were volunteers from the student body recruited by Associate Director of the Office of Campus Life, Robin Adams, who sent out an email asking for student assistance for the event a couple of weeks prior. Xan Goldberg was one of those students.

"It was kind of like being an intern or a production assistant for the event," Goldberg said. "It was a great opportunity for someone who is interested in production and politics to get some experience,"

Members of the public seemed impressed by Zankel, which opened in 2010. The moderators and politicians all thanked Skidmore for hosting the event, and noted the allure of the auditorium.

"Zankel is an outstanding venue for this kind of event," said Forbush. " We know that YNN is so pleased both with the building and with how things went that they will be considering Zankel for similar events in the future." 

U.S. Senate debate held at Zankel Music Center

Posted by Jesse Shayne

Last night, the debate between incumbent Democratic senator Kristin Gillibrand and her challenger Republican Wendy Long, took place at the Arthur Zankel Music Center at Skidmore College immediately following a pro-choice rally outside.

The debate was sponsored by YNN and NY1 (branches of Times Warner Cable) and was moderated by Capital Tonight host Liz Benjamin and Inside City Hall host Errol Louis.

Journalists from the New York Times, the Associated Press, the Albany Times Union and a slew of other news outlets were present, along with 575 spectators-about half of whom were Skidmore students and faculty members, the other half comprised of invitees of YNN and NY1, Skidmore trustees, members of the political world and the public. The event was broadcasted on YNN, NY1 and News 12. It was also streamed on C-Span's website and aired on WNYC Radio.

President Phillip A. Glotzbach started the event with a speech to the immediate audience-prior to the live broadcast-where he emphasized the importance of debates for political and educational purposes and as the foundation of democracy. He thanked the producers and senators and also mentioned the significance of the event to Skidmore.

Liz Benjamin and Errol Louis then took the stage and warmed up the audience with jokes and questions. They asked those present in the auditorium to raise their hands in support of either candidate, to which Gillibrand received an overwhelming majority.

The debate then began, as did the airing, with one-minute opening statements from both candidates. Gillibrand stressed the importance of job growth as the number one concern of the election, and mentioned her belief in fighting for the middle class.

Long emphasized the significance of equality and noted the struggling economy of New York-a testament to Gillibrand's service in her opinion.

The candidates were then asked a number of questions by the moderators pertaining to issues such as the recent attack on the U.S. consulate in Libya, the effectiveness of the stimulus package passed under President Barack Obama, gun control, abortion (and the constitutionality of the Supreme Court's decision in Roe v. Wade), tax-cuts and the economy.

Gillibrand and Long both came out aggressively, interrupting each other often and going over-time on their answers quite frequently. Both stuck to party lines, advocating for their respective party's presidential candidates and their platforms.

"It was interesting how a lot of the issues directly overlapped with the presidential campaign," said Xan Goldberg '13 who was a student assistant at the event.

A lightning round of yes or no questions followed the initial round. Many of the questions contained references to pop culture icons such as twitter and Fifty Shades of Grey, but some were more serious. The candidates were asked if they believed in reinstituting the death penalty in the state of New York to which Gillibrand responded in the negative and Long the affirmative.

A cross-examination round of questions followed in which Gillibrand asked Long if she was willing to break Grover Norquist's GOP anti-tax pledge and Long asked Gillibrand about the recent sexual harassment scandal involving New York State Assemblyman Vito J. Lopez.

The moderators then took back over and asked questions about health care, Iran, U.S. involvement in Afghanistan, hydro-fracking in upstate New York and immigration. The hydro-fracking issue received more discussion time given recent consideration to allow New York hydro-fracking by Governor Andrew Cuomo.

When Long came out in support of fracking with an emphasis on job creation and energy independence she received boos from the audience. Gillibrand took a more modest approach stating that she would not allow fracking in New York until studies have proven it to be safe.

After the last round of questions the candidates made their closing statements and left the stage. Both Senate-hopefuls stuck around to receive questions from the media afterwards.

The event was a collaborative effort between many parties-YNN, NY1, the campaigns and the college. At times the audience applauded and booed despite being asked to remain silent by the moderators, but overall it went smoothly.

"Hosting the debate was a real team effort among Campus Safety, Special Programs, the Communications Office, and, of course, our colleagues at the Zankel Music Center," said Executive Director of Communications Dan Forbush. "It was a great opportunity for our students, giving them a front-row seat in a key political race, and it was a great opportunity for the College to show off Zankel to a vast new audience."

The college placed an emphasis on student involvement in the debate by reserving about 200 tickets for the student body, which were distributed on Oct. 3.

"It was easily accessible for students and free, which was nice," said Leslie Valasquez '14.

Student involvement ranged from spectating to helping run the event. Zankel student ushers were present as were volunteers from the student body recruited by Associate Director of the Office of Campus Life, Robin Adams, who sent out an email asking for student assistance for the event a couple of weeks prior. Xan Goldberg was one of those students.

"It was kind of like being an intern or a production assistant for the event," Goldberg said. "It was a great opportunity for someone who is interested in production and politics to get some experience,"

Members of the public seemed impressed by Zankel, which opened in 2010. The moderators and politicians all thanked Skidmore for hosting the event, and noted the allure of the auditorium.

"Zankel is an outstanding venue for this kind of event," said Forbush. " We know that YNN is so pleased both with the building and with how things went that they will be considering Zankel for similar events in the future." 

Editorial: political life on campus

Posted by The Editorial Board

Wednesday's debate between New York Democratic Senator Kristin Gillibrand and her challenger Republican Wendy Long marked one of the biggest political events that has ever taken place at Skidmore College. This momentous occasion is one to be celebrated for its historic significance for the school, and also for the inclusion of students.

Despite the fact that the use of the Helen Filene Ladd Hall in the Arthur Zankel Music Center was a great influential factor in YNN and NY1s' decision to approach the College about hosting the debate, the administration and the Department of Special Programs in particular - both parties who helped organize the event - did place emphasis on student involvement by saving approximately 200 tickets for the student body and simulcasting (live-streaming) the debate in the Davis, Emerson and Gannett auditoriums as well as in the Murray-Aikins Dining Hall.

This debate served as an opportunity for students to exercise political initiative; an opportunity that was lost and ignored by a number of students. The problem is that a lot of students did not seem to be aware that the debate was even happening and missed out on their chance to secure tickets.

News of the debate seemed to spread mostly through hearsay until an official announcement was made. A single email was sent out by the administration on Oct. 1, merely two days before the release of tickets, which were distributed on a first-come first-serve basis at 8 a.m., Oct. 3 via a webpage. There were no posters. There were no other emails. On the day of the debate many students were still unclear about what was happening and some were still entirely unaware that it was even occurring.

This unfortunate situation only ties into a greater phenomenon on campus-the effects of the 'Skidmore bubble.'

Students have complained that they are unaware of what's going on in the world-whether due to their own negligence, busy schedules or general disinterest. As college students in the age of technology and an ever-more competitive job market, these excuses are not acceptable.

The administration does what it can to foster political involvement by holding events such as this debate and the voter registration function that took place in the Tang on Oct. 4. We are given the New York Times for free five days a week, which is a blessing when you are on a college budget. We are also allowed to vote on campus, which only further limits any excuses students have for a lack of political involvement and awareness.

It is worth noting that as a tax-exempt institution, the College and its faculty members must adhere to strict IRS guidelines when it comes to expressing political opinion, as noted in the 'Expression of Political Opinion Policy.'

In fact, that very policy prohibited former president Bill Clinton from coming to campus in 2010 when he was visiting Saratoga Springs to endorse former U.S. Representative Chris Murphy. Under the 2010 guidelines: "College space and facilities may not be used to solicit political funds or endorsements." The revised edition of the policy, released in May 2012, removed the part about endorsements.

Under IRS guidelines, and the College's policy, students and student groups are allowed to invite candidates on campus for whatever reason. Debates are allowed assuming that they are on an impartial basis.

In 2010, the administration did what it could to address the problem while navigating through strict government guidelines. The College was able to work around and revise the policy to avoid losing out on another opportunity of this magnitude should it arise again.

While it is not the administration's job to force political involvement on students outside of the classroom, it is within their power to continue strengthening their efforts to keep students informed and active through academic means.

The new Inter-Group Relations minor is a great example of a field that takes contemporary issues into account. Other disciplines have courses that take similar approaches, such as the 'Art History Major and Beyond' capstone class in which students must bring in current event articles pertaining to Art, a great example of a non-political subject that still manages to incorporate contemporary information.

Even if current events are not applicable to every department's academics, the College could take the route of simply offering a one or two-credit current events course-an opportunity for students to stay actively informed.

When students venture out into the real world, employers will not be interested solely in the transcripts and resumes-they will ask you about your opinion on what's going on in the world.

The College grooms us for post-college life in just about every other way. The student body should take advantage of the opportunities the administration has given us and follow this growing trend in political awareness and activity on campus.

Born to Bake: Nutella banana muffins

Posted by Grace Harman

Bananas are one of the cheapest fruits you can buy. They're soft, sweet and full of things that are good for you. Thankfully, you can quickly remedy that last part by baking them into a Nutella Banana muffin. Yes, they are as wonderful as they sound.

While this may sound like a challenge to make, the base recipe for these treats is essentially the same as it would be for classic banana muffins. I don't think anyone reading this is looking for something so plain, however, so I went ahead and added a little bit of oomph into the mix.

When I recently found myself with a bunch of bananas on the verge of going bad, I figured the best thing to do was make muffins with Nutella. Nutella is great with pretty much any fruit, and if you haven't had a granny smith apple with Nutella yet you are truly doing yourself a disservice. While the stuff may have about 11 grams of fat in just two itty bitty tablespoons, it's still about as close to ambrosia as we lowly mortals are ever going to get. I personally elect to put it in or on everything, especially banana muffins.

Regular banana bread is, of course, delicious on its own, but think about how delicious it might be with some hazelnut -spread swirled in. If the two dozen muffins I made hadn't already been demolished by friends, you can bet I'd be scarfing one down as I write this recipe out.

Ingredients:
? 3 cups all-purpose flour

? 2 teaspoons baking powder

? 2 teaspoons baking soda

? 1 teaspoon salt

? 6 large bananas, mashed

? 1-1/2 cups white sugar

? 2 egg

? 2/3 cup butter, melted

? 1/4 cup Nutella

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350

I'm [a] PC

Posted by Jake Dolgenos

The College's recent decision to rename the new apartment buildings in the face of a minor controversy has drawn some predictable student criticism. But while the change may seem ridiculous, the opportunity to reflect on our campus and countrywide culture of political correctness and the eye-rolling indignation it provokes is well timed. Let's talk about it.

Many of you grew accustomed to calling the new sophomore housing (for that, to our collective upper-class indignation, is what the new apartments will be) "Slopeside" after the college popularized the word by...calling the new apartments "Slopeside." Since then, the official name has been changed to "Hillside" after it was brought to the attention of the college that "Slope" can be a pejorative term for a person of Asian descent (this checks out - watch Gran Torino for some particularly engrossing context to the slur).

We all know that changes like this have to be made occasionally. And acting on the potential for offense rather than the offense itself, the definition of and most frustrating aspect to political correctness, is something all organizations have to do from time to time. The disastrous delay between changes aside, the College hasn't done anything particularly noteworthy in its treatment of a slightly embarrassing incident. But when I heard about the change, I was irritated.

I understand why the College needs to avoid offending people when it names its new buildings. I understand that "slope" is an old and rarely used but nonetheless legitimate slur (after about 30 seconds of confused Googling). I understand that just because the name doesn't offend me or anyone I know does not mean it is devoid of the potential to offend. But I was still irritated. It's the kind of nagging, illegitimate feeling that persists because you feel like somehow, you're being censored, even if it's not the case. I admit, I still somewhat rebelliously (mostly forgetfully) refer to my home as "Slopeside."

For many people, a particular topic may be "off-limits." On the recent anniversary of the terrorist attacks of 9/11, my housemate asked that I turn off an especially wince-inducing episode of "The Burn" with comedian Jeff Ross. My housemate, like many, has a particularly strong reaction to the event, and for him the humor crossed a line. A few friends who are survivors of sexual assault (and a few who simply object to a humorous treatment of the subject) similarly find jokes about rape to be universally unacceptable. A friend who has a brother with severe autism will stiffen when the pejorative "retarded" or a similar word or style of humor is thrown out in casual situations.

It doesn't take special insight to see that many on this campus have such borders around sensitive subjects. How do we lucky few who live unladen with such sensitivities avoid crossing lines of which we may be unaware? How should those of us who have these limits express them without outing ourselves as vulnerable without choice of context? To step back, is there a right to be offended? Is there a right to offend? These are troubling and broad questions about culture and society for which we must each endeavor to select an individual opinion to inform our own discourse. And for those who deny that this constitutes a valid choice (that some subjects should be universally avoided out of sensitivity), consider my final thought.

To paraphrase Mark Twain, "a man is no more free to speak his mind than he is to commit murder. He has every ability to do either, provided he is willing to accept the consequences." To say that we are victimized by offensive language ignores our very real power to create consequences for insensitivity. I believe, for myself, that the right to offend must respect the right to be offended and vice versa. We must understand our right to our words even as those who flinch understand their right to respond.

Consider the costs, also, of coming down too hard on controversial speech. Context is always important-what is offensive in one medium might be excusable in others. Don't forget, humor is how some people are able to heal from traumatic experiences or deal with their own insecurities, and talking about sensitive subjects ensures they are not ignored.

It may seem as though exposing so much harsh light as a society on things which can be raw and painful is unduly cruel; I submit that this opinion is a product of liberal times. We take for granted our ability to safely communicate, it's hard to remember that the right was hard-won and should not be suppressed for its occasional potential to offend or afflict.

In the end, I try to live my life without hurting others. Sometimes this means I consciously change my vocabulary, sometimes it means I make the personal choice to continue speaking about something, even if some find the subject itself offensive or insensitive. I hope that anyone who hears me cross a verbal line feels comfortable enough to call me out so that we can talk about it. In the end, I think that's better than silence. 

Jake Dolgenos is a member of the class of 2014, reads boats and rows books, and consumes Apple products like they grow on Apple trees.

Frugal Foods, Happy Stomachs: Turkey chili

Posted by Ashley Copperstone

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, fellow students, but winter fast approaches. Harsh winds are blowing, the air is getting chilly, and frosted ground seems to be just a few days away. I could've sworn I smelled snow near The Local on Van Dam Street last night!

But don't worry, my friends, because the often painful departure of summer means that good things are also on their way. Wonderful things like Saratoga Apple's cider doughnuts, on-campus events like Moorebid and Thanksgiving break are all growing closer and closer. So, put a pumpkin in your window-seat, grab another blanket for your bed (take one off if you live in the dorms!) and bust out the scarves, hats and ugly sweaters because we are diving headfirst into fall.

In honor of autumn, I bring you warm love and happiness in a bowl. Dig deep into your cabinets for a big pot, because tonight is Chili Night. It may sound like a culinary challenge, but don't be scared because chili, while delicious, is possibly one of the easiest dishes to prepare! This recipe is actually the work of my mom and godmother, so be prepared for something that registers somewhere between cleanliness and godliness.
In the interest of pleasing my readers as I have done in the past, this recipe is already gluten free and you can easily substitute the turkey for beef, chicken, tofu, or even just beans and vegetables. After all, chili is chili no matter what you put in it! If time is a concern, you can also start preparing this dish in the morning and leave it in a crockpot to cook until you're ready to eat it later in the day.

Turkey Chili:
1 lb of ground turkey meat

1 14.5 oz can of Del Monte Diced Tomatoes

1 8 oz can of Del Monte Tomato Sauce

1 can of Beans (Any kind will do! Pick a favorite or two)

1 pack of chili mix (Ortega is good!)

1 portabella mushroom, chopped

1 onion, chopped

3 cloves of garlic, crushed

A pinch of Parsley

A pinch of Cinnamon

A pinch of Basil

A pinch of Chili Powder

Salt and Pepper to taste

NOTE: Basically everything works well in chili. If you have any veggies in your fridge that you want to use, just throw them into the chili pot!

Step 1: Heat saut?? pan to medium-high heat and brown meat.

Step 2: While the meat is browning, empty both cans of tomato sauce into a large pot and mix in the garlic and chili mix and put them on medium heat. Alternatively, place this mix into a crockpot on low for 7-8 hours, or high for 3-5 hours.

Step 3: Drain the excess oil off of the meat, and mix this into the chili pot.

Step 4: Brown mushrooms and onions in the saut?? pan used prior, and add them to the chili mix when sufficiently cooked.

Step 5: Mix in the extra spices.

Step 6: WAIT! Stir when needed! Patience is a virtue.

Step 7 (optional): Grab some chips, bread or something else delicious to dip in the chili! 

Step 8: When your patience is all but gone and the chili meets your ideal consistency, it's time to eat. Enjoy!

Francois Cluzet and Omar Sy Give Dynamic Performance in "The Intouchables": A Car Chase and a Kiss: Admittedly Optimistic Reviews of Upcoming Films at the Saratoga Film Forum

Posted by Eric Stumpf

Oliver Nakache and Eric Toledano's The Intouchables will run at Saratoga Film Forum at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 18and Friday, Oct. 19. The film will also show at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 21.

With two outstanding lead performances by Francois Cluzet and Omar Sy, The Intouchables proves to be as inspiring as it is sentimental. The film follows a black Muslim ex-con, Driss (Omar Sy) as he looks for work in France. Driss storms into a job interview with no expectation of being hired, only to find himself offered a job as a caretaker for Phillipe (Francois Cluzet), a white quadriplegic millionaire. The French film is based on the memoir You Changed My Life by Abdel Sellou.

 My brother recommended this film to me, raving that The Intouchables is one of the best films he's ever seen. I respect his suggestion, yet as someone who has fairly strong opinions against unrealistically optimistic plot lines, I was skeptical. The plot description for this unlikely friendship is cause for groans, but that is where they will end. Despite all odds it works, and does so with elegance. It's a bro-mance worth watching if there ever was one.

 The acting and camaraderie between the two leads is wonderful. There is success in both the comedic and dramatic points of the film, and only a truly grumpy film critic would ignore the redeeming qualities of the story as a whole.

The Intouchables has won over five awards at various international film festivals, and  France voted the film as the "The Cultural Event"of 2011. In other words, it's kind of a big deal.

 "There are countless magical moments worth recounting, many with humor and involving the clash of the classes: it is not surprising that the film has been a runaway hit in France and elsewhere in Europe," Louise Keller of Urban Cinefile said.

To me, it is France's rendition of John Lennon's Imagine. Enjoy!

 Relevant Majors: Psychology, Sociology, Education, French and European Integration Studies

Look out next week for a review of "Safety Not Guaranteed," with Aubrey Plaza (Ron Swanson would be proud), which comes to the Film Forum on Oct. 25.

Campus Safety Reports Oct. 5 to 11

Posted by Julia Leef

Incidents of Note:

• Friday, Oct. 5: Criminal Mischief: Numerous signs on campus reported spray painted at 8 a.m. Damage recorded. Report issued and investigation initiated.
• Sunday, Oct. 7: Medical: An intoxicated female reported at 12:10 a.m. at a Toga party at Field House. Officer assessed the subject and requested Emergency Medical Service. Subject was transported to the Emergency Room for medical attention. Report issued.
• Wednesday, Oct. 10: Animals: A squirrel was reported at 1:01 p.m. running up and down the main stairwell in Palamountain Hall. At 1:03 p.m. a male called stating the squirrel was on the second floor of Bolton near the vending machines. At 1:08 p.m. officers reported cornering the squirrel and releasing it back outside.

Further Incidents:

Friday, Oct. 5:

• College Violation: Excessive noise reported at 12:23 a.m. in Howe Hall. Officers dispatched reported that the subjects were gone upon arrival. The area on the second floor was quiet at this time.
• Suspicious Activity: Subjects reported at 12:43 a.m. on top of the covered walkway in the Keyes Quad. Reporting person requested that they get down but they did not respond. Officer dispatched reported the walkways clear.
• Campus Safety Assist: Person requests a referral to Health Services on call at 12:46 a.m. Officer contacted personnel and delivered the message for return contact. Reporting person rendered assistance.
• Suspicious Activity: Wait hill construction gate found open at 1:07 a.m. Officer checked the construction site and found no disturbances at that time. Gate secured.
• Harassment: An act of vandalism that occurred earlier in the morning reported at 11:38 a.m. at Jonsson Tower. Report issued.
• Sexual Misconduct: An act of sexual misconduct reported at 11:38 a.m. that occurred late last October. Reporting person does not wish for police or college involvement at this time. Report issued.
• Campus Safety Assist: Person reported a subject driving a black sedan recklessly at 1:53 p.m. in Palamountain parking lot. Officer dispatched reports the subject gone upon arrival.
• College Violation: Subjects reported at 10:58 p.m. smoking in a room in Howe Hall. Dispatched officers reported the residents left the room prior to their arrival.
• Liquor Law Violation: Officer reported observing a liquor law violation at 11:06 p.m. in Howe Hall. Report issued.
• College Violation: Person reports loud yelling at 11:29 p.m. from a Hillside apartment. Dispatched officers reported a check of the area and the apartment. Subjects were gone upon their arrival.
• College Violation: A large gathering reported at 11:43 p.m. at Moore Way causing a disturbance to neighbors. Officers dispatched dispersed the large group.

Saturday, Oct. 6:

• Liquor Law Violation: Officers reported a large gathering of people at 12:02 a.m. behind 2 Moore Way. Officers reported locating the party and observing several liquor law violations. Report issued.
• Fire Alarm Apparatus: Officer reported at 12:30 a.m. that while on a routine fire and safety check hearing the stopper alarm that covers the fire pull station in Penfield Hall activated. Officer reset alarm and cover. No actual fire alarm activation.
• Campus Safety Assist: Person requested contact with the counselor on call staff at 3:10 a.m. Officer made contact and assistance rendered.
• Campus Safety Assist: Person reported a disturbance at 1:54 p.m. caused by construction workers in Scribner Village. Officer spoke with the construction supervisor and the behavior ceased.
• Criminal Mischief: Officer reported at 9 a.m. finding the fencing damaged leading to the Scribner Village construction area. No known perpetrators at this time. Report issued.
• Campus Safety Assist: Person reported at 6:56 p.m. a dog tied to a tree outside the Dining Hall. Officer dispatched. Subject and dog gone upon arrival.
• Fire Alarm: Fire alarm activation received at 8:31 p.m. at residence on Dayton Drive. Officers, maintenance and Saratoga Springs Fire Department advised. Activation was due to burned food. Report issued.
• Suspicious Odor: Suspicious odor reported at 8:57 p.m. on the second floor of Wiecking Hall. Officers dispatched reported that no odor was detected.
• Suspicious Odor: Suspicious odor reported at 9:16 p.m. by the Kimball Hall West Lot basement door. Officers detected the odor of marijuana with no one in the vicinity.
• Intoxicated Subject: An intoxicated female reported at 10:30 p.m. on the third floor of Kimball Hall. Officers dispatched assessed the subject and requested Emergency Medical Service. Subject was transported to the Emergency Room. Report issued.
• College Violation: Caller reported a loud group at 11:48 p.m. on the third floor of Kimball Hall. Officers dispatched reports the subject gone on arrival.
• Drug Law Violation: Officer reported a drug law violation in plain view at 11:46 p.m. as he exited Kimball Hall. Report issued.

Sunday, Oct. 7:

• Campus Safety Assist: A personal escort requested at 2:20 a.m. from Jonsson Tower to her residence at Wiecking Hall. Officer provided transport.
• Intoxicated Subject: Person reported at 3:22 a.m. that her friend is intoxicated and needed assistance at North Woods. Officer dispatched assessed the subject and found her alert, coherent and responsive. Subject declined further attention. Report issued.
• Criminal Mischief: A large hole reported at 10:17 a.m. in the south stairwell of Kimball Hall, as well as a sprinkler valve cap that had been taken off. Dispatched officer recorded the damage and issued report.
• Suspicious Activity: Two suspicious males reported at 12:33 p.m. at the front entrance of the Williamson Sports Center. Officers dispatched and the subjects were gone on arrival. No further reports.
• Fire Alarm: Fire alarm activation received at 8:06 p.m. at Hillside apartments. Officers, maintenance and Saratoga Springs Fire Department advised. Officer reports the alarm activation was due to cooking smoke. Report issued.

Monday, Oct. 8:

• Campus Safety Assist: Person requested an on-call counselor contact her at 12:57 a.m. Officer made a notification and assistance rendered.
• Criminal Mischief: Person reported criminal mischief at 1:06 a.m. to the vending machine in Rounds Hall. Damage recorded and report issued. Investigation pending.
• Accident: Person reported at 7:29 a.m. that a sign was struck by a tractor-trailer at the entrance to the College on North Broadway. Damage recorded and report issued.
• Accident: Person reported at 10:09 a.m. that a female student had fallen off her bike on the Perimeter Road near the Williamson Sports Center and would like to be transported to Health Services. Officer dispatched provided assistance. Report issued.
• Fire Alarm: Fire alarm activation received at 10:13 a.m. at the Hillside Apartments B unit. Officers, maintenance and Saratoga Springs Fire Department advised. Burnt food determined to have caused the alarm. Report issued.
• Campus Safety Assist: 911 emergency activation received at 9:53 a.m. from Officers dispatched to the area. Caller reports call made in a misdial error. Officers confirmed.
• Parking: Officer booted a car at 2:06 p.m. in Cane Lot for excessive tickets. Report issued.
• Fire Alarm: Fire alarm activation received at 2:47 p.m. in the Hillside Apartments A unit. Officers, maintenance and Saratoga Springs Fire Department advised. Officers responding reported the cause of activation was burned food. Report issued.
• Campus Safety Assist: Person requested a transport at 5:35 p.m. to the Saratoga Emergency Room from Jonsson Tower. Dispatched officer completed the transport.
• Campus Safety Assist: Person requested at 10:22 p.m. to speak with Health Services on call staff. Officer made a notification and assistance was rendered to the person at Whitman Way.

Tuesday, Oct. 9:

• College Violation: Excessive noise reported at 4:30 a.m. in front of a Cane Crossing apartment. Officer dispatched reported no one in the area and no noise detected.
• Safety Check AED: Officer reported a check at 10:50 a.m. of all the Automated External Defibrillators on campus. All are operational at this time.
• Fire Alarm: Fire alarm activated at 2:30 p.m. for Hillside Apartment B unit. Dispatched officer, maintenance and Saratoga Springs Fire Department. Officer reported the alarm was caused by burnt food. Report issued.
• Fire Alarm: Fire alarm activation received at 5:44 p.m. from a Hillside Apartment. Dispatched officers, maintenance, and the Saratoga Springs Fire Department. Officer reports burned food as the cause of activation.
• Campus Safety Assist: Person reported an older male subject at 5:23 p.m. entering Jonsson Tower making residents suspicious. Officer reported locating a male employee in Health Services for his flu shot.

Wednesday, Oct. 10:

• College Violation Noise: Noise complaint reported at 2:45 a.m. at Jonsson Tower. Officer dispatched reported three residents complied with the request to lower the volume.

Thursday, Oct. 11:

• Power Outage: An unplanned campus-wide power outage occurred at 11:22 p.m. An e2Campus message was sent out. Officers checked all buildings, elevator phones, and notified all vendors. Power was restored at 12:58 a.m.
• College Violation Noise: Several students reported at 12:45 a.m. running through the halls on the second floor of Wait Hall creating a lot of noise. Officer dispatched.
• Parking Vehicle Towing: Officer requested a tow truck at 2:27 p.m. Matt's towed the vehicle at 2:46 p.m. from campus as it had an excessive amount of tickets this academic year.

Car damages transformer, causing power outage in Northwoods Village

Posted by Rachel Kim

In the morning hours of Oct. 20, a car struck and damaged a transformer located in the Northwoods Village. According to the Saratogian, the incident left three apartment buildings and 114 people without electricity.

"The transformer affecting the power outage to several Northwoods buildings must be removed and repaired, which will take about a week," said Community Coordinator for Residential Life Joseph Murphy in an email sent to Northwoods residents earlier today.

Power returned late Monday afternoon after a generator was installed to temporarily replace the damaged transformer. The generator will supply the apartments with electricity for the remainder of the week.

The driver responsible for the damage done left the scene without reporting it to Campus Safety.

Students and other community members can report tips by calling the anonymous TIPS Hotline at 518-580-8477.

Man who threatened President Obama sentenced to one to three years: Dickinson sent threats from a Skidmore College computer early last March

In a press release on Oct. 15, Saratoga County District Attorney James A. Murphy III announced today that Brent Dickinson of 2601 Maple Ave. Apt. 9 Saratoga Springs, NY was sentenced to one to three years in a state prison in Saratoga County Court for an attempted terroristic threat as a Class E Felony for a crime that occurred on March 2, 2012. 

Dickinson had posted threats against President Barack Obama online using a Skidmore computer in the Sasselin Art building. This charge is still pending with the U.S. Attorney's Office.
 
Dickinson also threatened young school children at an unnamed and nonspecific school in Saratoga County, and it is alleged that he threatened to torture and kill elementary age school children.

"We take any threats against children in schools seriously. We've seen too many of these people take action on threats that result in death and serious injury," Murphy said in the press release. "We have to ensure that kids are safe on the bus and at school. We have to assist teachers and administrators in making our schools a place to learn and be safe; not to be worried about threats of violence and danger." 

According to the press release, Dickinson took full responsibility for sending the emails to the school and to the president.  He fully admitted his conduct was criminal in court and understood what he did was wrong.  He recognized the nature and character of his behavior and realized that his medication is helping him significantly. 
 
Judge Scarano ordered the defendant to seek counseling and stay on his medication while incarcerated and after he is released. 
 
"Mr. Dickinson is presently under the care of a doctor and will continue to be while incarcerated," Murphy said in the press release. "He will also continue to be medicated during his incarceration and after being released.  He has the resources of Saratoga County Mental Health at his disposal in the event he is in need of treatment in the future. "

An Order of Protection was issued against Dickinson, ordering him to stay away from all parochial and private schools in Saratoga County, the Skidmore College campus, all branches of the YMCA of Saratoga and the Saratoga Springs Public Library.
 
The Saratoga Springs Police Department and the US Secret Service cooperated in the investigation.

Skidmore College to host Gillibrand-Long senator debate: The debate will be the only one of its kind this campaign season

Posted by Sarah Rose-Slate

On Oct. 17 at 7 p.m., the candidates for the U.S. Senate seat for New York, incumbent senator Kirsten Gillibrand and her Republican opponent Wendy Long, will face off at Skidmore in a debate to be held at the Zankel Music Center. The debate held on campus is the only one the candidates have agreed to participate in. The debate is sponsored by YNN and NY1, and will be co-moderated by Capital Tonight host Liz Benjamin and NY1 political anchor Errol Louis.

Kirsten Gillibrand, the Democratic incumbent, was elected to Senate in 2010. A former congresswoman, she was appointed senator in 2009, filling Secretary of State Hilary Clinton's vacated seat. In 2010, she won an election for the rest of the six-year term, beating Republican Joseph J. DioGuardi.

As a member of the Senate, Gillibrand has been an advocate for the repeal of the law that banned homosexuals from openly serving in the military, which ended during her term in 2010. Gillibrand also helped passed an initiative to provide health care for rescue workers who were sickened by smoke and fumes during the attack on the World Trade Center. Before the Senate, Gillibrand served in the House of Representatives, where she voted in 2007 to withdraw troops from Iraq and voted against the Wall Street bailout bill. She has shifted her views somewhat since becoming a Senator, as she has become a supporter of amnesty for illegal immigrants as well as a supporter of gun control.

Gillibrand's opponent, Manhattan lawyer and Republican Wendy Long, will challenge Gillibrand for the Senate seat. Long has served as a clerk to Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and on the counsel for a conservative group that supported judicial nominees. She was nominated for Senate by the Conservative Party, helping Long beat her opponents in the Republican primary in order to challenge Gillibrand in the upcoming election.

Long's stance calls for cutting taxes, reducing regulation, and cutting spending in order to balance the budget. While Gillibrand focuses on bringing transparency and openness to her position as Senator, Long champions the idea of a limited self-government that follows the original principles of the Constitution.

The two candidates also disagree on reproductive rights. Gillibrand has stood by her decision that women should have the right to choose and defends women's right to access reproductive health care. Long, on the other hand, has said she is pro-life and has worked in the past for anti-abortion group Americans United for Life.

The process of deciding to hold the debate at the College and preparing for the event has been extensive. Interim Dean of Special Programs Paul Calhoun says New York-based news station YNN originally contacted the College in efforts to hold the debate on campus, consulting first with Director of Media Relations Andrea Wise. Michelle Curran, Zankel Music Center's concerts and events manager, and the President's Office helped organize the event. The President's cabinet, in conjunction with the Office of Student Affairs, met to coordinate the technical requirements for the debate: power, lighting, and sound, as well as ticketing, catering, facilities and parking. The office of Student Affairs met three times to discuss the event as well.

"The process was a smooth and cooperative one with few complications," said Calhoun.

Response to the debate on campus has been positive, with tickets to the debate selling out within 36 hours. Due to the high demand, the school has decided to broadcast the debate in Davis, Gannett and Emerson auditoriums for people without tickets.

The Senate debate on campus punctuates a rise in political involvement among members of the college and surrounding community. A Pro-Choice rally will be held prior to the debate at 5 p.m. and will gather at the College's main Broadway entrance. Among the groups involved in the rally is NARAL Pro-Choice New York, a political and advocacy organization that advocates for women's reproductive rights. There will also be Voter Pledge Campaign tables in the Murray-Aikins Dining Hall and Case Center encouraging students to vote.

Skidmore Student Emily Rooke-Ley '14, who is involved in campus political and social advocacy groups, noted the importance of the debate being held on campus and being open to the public.

"A lot of important issues such as a woman's right to make their own decisions on healthcare, student loan availability, universal health coverage and energy policy will be decided in this election. Students should get out and vote so they have a say in their future," Rooke-Ley said. 

Editorial: reapplying the honor code

Posted by The Editorial Board

The same day the Daily Gazette published a column praising fellow Liberty League member Union College's new honor code, Skidmore College saw a breach of its own. Late Thursday night, Oct. 4, 13 signs across campus were vandalized with black and pink spray paint, as reported in "Unknown subject vandalize on-campus signs."

As the Gazette article so rightfully advocates, honor codes are an important facet to any secondary educational institution but have unfortunately become a rare fixture in the present day--only about 100 or so colleges or universities in the nation currently have one in place. As one of the few campuses with an honor code, Skidmore's administration has done its best to make students aware of the implications of signing the code, but it seems to have fallen upon deaf ears of at least one member of the community. While this is far from being the first incident of vandalism on campus, the scenario enters grey territory in determining who will cover the costs of repairs. According to Skidmore's Room and Board agreement: "Responsibility for damage to an individual room/apartment is assumed by the resident(s) of that room/apartment...[and] Repair of damage to common areas throughout the residence hall system is shared equally by each campus resident."

Questions of fairness aside, these policies do not seem to apply to the situation at hand. The issue is determining what happens when a case of vandalism takes place outdoors. According to a member of the administration, if there's an instance of destruction not limited to a residential building, the whole school is billed, though the plan for handling this most recent incident has yet to be revealed. The same person emphasized that this policy is not for the intention of teaching a lesson, but has simply been used as a method for covering the costs of repairs.

Regardless of this rationale, it seems unjust for students to see an increase to an already burdening tuition, especially when there is no proof that the perpetrator was even a student. Even if this incident amounts to a negligible addition, which it probably will, the principle seems like it will do little other than perturb the student body. The culprit is hardly punished, and no more so than the rest of the community.

When similar incidents have unfolded in the dorms, the Room and Board policy of spreading the cost has served as a method of pushing witnesses to come forward and present the proper authorities with the miscreant's name. In a situation like this, however, the chances of anyone being cognizant of the perpetrator's identity is ever more unlikely, but we are bound to the College's rules and regulations by the honor code, thus we have to follow them.

When you arrive at Skidmore you are required to sign the honor code, in fact, the College has taken up new measures this year in guaranteeing students' understanding of its importance by having first year students sign the code in front of President Glotzbach during his reception for them early in the Fall. The code explicitly makes clear the fact that it applies to all aspects of college life and is no way limited to academics.

It's hard to protest the effects of an unfair policy amidst a controversial situation such as this one, but the fact of the matter is that the only way we can avoid such instances is by ending vandalism on campus. The 2010-2011 academic year saw between $26,000-$27,000 worth of repairs due to student mischief, and while the heartening reduction to a sum of just under $16,000 in 2011-2012 makes it seem like we are moving in the right direction, it is not enough. Someone has to foot the bill, and it is not the administration's fault when students decide to act irresponsibly.

In the end, this incident simply circles back to a theme that has been prevalent lately on campus and alluded to in other recent Skidmore News editorials, such as "A smoke-free campus." If we are going to solve some of the biggest issues on campus, all we need is to do is to respect one another. The honor code abides us to "be considerate of the rights of others," and if the perpetrator of this most recent case of vandalism had considered that while pulling out his spray can, maybe the rest of the Skidmore student body would not be seeing an additional sum added to their tuition.  

Lee Hirsch's "Bully" Depicts the Grim Reality of School Systems: A Car Chase and a Kiss: Admittedly Optimistic Reviews of Upcoming Films at the Saratoga Film Forum.

Posted by Eric Stumpf

Lee Hirsch's Bully opens at the Saratoga Film Forum at 7:30 p.m. this Thursday, Oct. 11, and will continue to screen on Friday, Oct. 12, and again at 7 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 14.

This documentary film, directed by award winning filmmaker Lee Hirsch, is both hard-hitting and topical. Bully is a polished depiction of the grim realities kids face in today's school systems.

Although bullying has existed in some form since the birth of man, it's on the rise both in occurrence and consequence. Bully is a multifaceted view of this worldwide issue. This strong, character-driven documentary explores various perspectives of both youth and adults, whose lives have been most affected (and in some cases lost) by bullying.

Bullyimmerses you in a merciless world whether you like it or not. In doing so, the film strives to change perspectives about and bring awareness to an issue that may not be understood by many. At its heart are stories and interviews with misunderstood youths, whose courage in the face of helplessness is reason enough to inspire hope and change.

Richard Corless of Time Magazine describes Bully as "A documentary as vivid as any horror film, as heartbreaking as any Oscar-worthy drama." This film, unlike many documentaries these days, is actually worth sitting through. The 'moral of the story' is there, but Bully isn't some relentless arm-twisting one trick pony. It pulls you in with your consent.The stories are jarring and gritty, but they reflect issues that occur every day. Better yet, the cinematography exceeds the average documentary style footage to create a beautiful looking film.

 Screenings of Bullyare a 'Film Forum Special Event'! All three screenings will be followed by a panel conversation with educators, students, and other experts on school bullying today. Check out Saratogafilmforum.com for more information on participants involved in the panels for each night.

Relevant Majors: Psychology, Sociology, and Education.

Look out next week for a review of "Intouchables," coming to the Film Forum on Oct. 18!

Restaurant Review: Hattie's

Posted by Tegan O'Neill

I was not impressed the first time I reviewed Hattie's. When I recall the experience, hurried waitresses and disappointing plates of food come to mind. I wanted to give the famed spot another shot, though, because that one bad experience could have been a fluke. I had hope that this time around, I would feel compelled to join the extensive Hattie's fan club.

Right off the bat, the atmosphere felt different from the first time I was there because only a handful of tables were filled and thus, it felt less hectic and stressful. It took longer than it should have for a server to approach our table, and when we were finally greeted, it was with a half-audible excuse as to why we had been neglected--something about not realizing we had sat down yet. This would be an understandable remark had the restaurant been filled, but it was not.

People drive for miles for their fix of fried chicken, and I will admit, this chicken is pretty delicious. Hattie's knows how to cook up some serious comfort food. On the outside, the fried chicken is crackly and crispy; on the inside it is smooth and tender. The level of salt in each bite rests in that perfect zone between undetectable and overwhelming. Order the fried chicken, and you have a plate of salt and meat that unapologetically taps into a primal human yearning. If you add the maple syrup that comes with the fried chicken and waffle combo ($9.95), you have the trifecta: sugar, salt, and fat. It is a no-brainer why people flock to Hattie's year in and year out.

Understanding why the waffle is a necessary part of the equation, though, is a bit more puzzling. I understand the tradition, but if they are going to stick with the same old scheme, it better be a perfect recipe--and their waffle recipe is not. The waffle is bland and boring and no match for the chicken with which it is paired, though this can be remedied with the use of the provided hot sauce and maple syrup. Without these two sauces, however, it is far from anything special. Where is the spunk? Food offers a canvas for artists to flex their creative muscles, but at Hattie's it feels like the artists in the kitchen are working from a script that they are afraid to tweak.

I did glimpse inspiration when it came time to dig into the Cajun Omelet ($9.95). The rich egg, savory Andouille sausage, and sweet caramelized onion amalgam left me wanting for more every time I finished a mouthful. The flavors balanced each other out ridiculously well. The toast on the side was practically drunk with butter, and what could be better? I would feel guilty making such a thing at home, so I am glad that a restaurant could do it for me. The potatoes dusted with a generous dash of tangy cheese deserve a shout out too, as they accompanied the greasy omelet perfectly.

My one last gripe with Hattie's has to do with timing. We ordered the beignets in addition to our two main plates as an appetizer, but the entrees came before we were even half way done with them. Beignets are definitely better hot, especially with loads of powdered sugar, but we did not have enough time to enjoy them in this fashion before being tempted by other distractions. We also ordered a Caf?? Con Miel ($7.00)that came out sometime between the beignets and the main dishes. It came too late, too cool, and it tasted like weak coffee with too much bourbon. I can only hope the other drinks Hattie's mixes are better.

Hattie's makes good fried chicken, but it will not be until they pick up their service game, however, that I will be telling anyone that Hattie's is a must when visiting Saratoga Springs.

To read more of Tegan O'Neill's outings, visit her blog at http://tegan-and-sarah.blogspot.com/

Unknown subjects vandalize on-campus signs

Posted by Rachel Kim

Campus Safety received reports of vandalism the morning of Friday, Oct. 5, regarding on-campus signs.

Approximately 13 parking and stop signs were either partially or completely covered with black and pink spray paint. The signs were primarily in Northwoods Village, but also in other locations including Jonsson Tower, Perimeter Road and North Hall.

There were no specific designs or tags, leaving no kind of an identifier.

"I believe, in these cases, that this is being done by somebody who is living on campus, just by the nature of it and how it's being done," said Director of Campus Safety Dennis Conway.

When any damage to campus property occurs, the repair costs are billed to the individuals involved. If no one can be found responsible, the costs are charged to all students' tuition as a part of the Room and Board Agreement. If an outside guest is visiting a student at the College and is found to be guilty, both the guest and the host are found accountable. According to the Room and Board Agreement, repair of damage to residence hall areas and the apartments is shared equally by each resident if the persons responsible do not come forward.

Though no one has been identified for the damage done this past weekend, it is suspected that students are responsible for the damages.

"In the past, vandalism on campus - whether it's indoors or outdoors - would be from the school community," said Associate Director of Residential Life Don Hastings.

"Whatever the rationale, to me it's just disrespectful. This is your home," said Conway.

Vandalism on campus is not new to the College. For the 2010 to 2011 academic year between $26,000 and $27,000 of damage repair was charged to students. The following 2011 to 2012 academic year, however, saw a large decline and just under $16,000 was charged.

Despite the recent incident, Hastings expects to see the numbers continue to decline.

"We're very hopeful and I think that the community is looking forward to that trend." Still, Hastings stressed the importance of acting to remediate and prevent future incidents.

"The community really needs to take care of itself. Here's where we would rely on the community population, including guys like myself, to actively, directly get involved - in this case, by calling in the tip line," Hastings said.

Students and other community members can report tips by calling the anonymous TIPS Hotline at 518-580-8477. 

Saratoga Cycling Studio offers an exciting new alternative fitness option

Posted by Sara Gagnon

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to take a spin class? I hadn't, until I tried out a class at Saratoga Cycling Studio, located at 24 Hamilton Street. Opened in early May by husband and wife Gerry and Angela Amedio, the studio is Saratoga Springs's only Official Spinning? Facility.

Don't allow yourself to be fooled by the formal title, though; the space had a comfortable atmosphere and warm, inviting employees and members. I took a regular spin class with Angela, who lives right around the corner and grew up in a house about twenty minutes outside of Saratoga. Of the seventeen bikes in the room, only one was left empty when the class began.

"You can make it as easy or difficult as you want," Amedio said of spinning. "It's up to you to choose your fitness level. We get people who want to lose a hundred pounds and we get pro hockey players."

The people in my class ranged from Skidmore students to senior adults. There was a great range of experience present as well, with novices and spin instructors alike present and ready to work up a sweat.

We grabbed towels provided by the studio and mounted the bikes as Angela showed me the ins and outs of adjusting my bike to a suitable height and setting. The class began as the lights dimmed and the music blared-not what I had expected at all.

The workout Amedio led was reminiscent of the mountainous hike she and her husband had ventured the previous weekend. It gradually increased in intensity as you worked through different exercises, including "flat roading," which required a seated position on the bike, as well as second and third positions, which required that you stand.

Amedio directed us with positive attitudes and we pedaled to the music, which fit each part of the workout. I'd never thought I'd get into spinning, but by the end of the class I had already decided to return, excited to continue one of the most fun workouts I've ever taken part in.

Amedio began spinning over ten years ago, when she joined a gym in an effort to lose weight. Intimidated and discouraged by the treadmills, she saw a group people leaving the gym's spin class, drenched in sweat but smiling, and decided to try it out. Since then, she's taken an active interest in spinning and has begun instructing classes in Saratoga Cycling Studio, her very own location.
"I've worked in a lot of places, so I've seen all the mistakes," Amedio said, seeming confident that she and her husband Gerry had gotten it right.

If any students are interested in alternative fitness choices, Saratoga Cycling Studio is definitely worth checking out. Classes are $12 each, and there are several package options available. Those interested can choose from regular spinning classes as well as combination courses that incorporate yoga, pilates and ballet.

The center also hosts a number of fundraisers, most recently including Spin for a Cure on Oct. 19, which will benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation, and Ride to Recovery on Nov. 3, which will raise money for spin bikes used for rehabilitation of men and women of the Armed Forces.

Whether you're a beginner or a spin guru, Saratoga Cycling has something for you. For a full list of upcoming classes, events and more information visit the website at http://www.saratogacyclingstudio.com/.