Opinion: Liberating Skidmore: SGA's unilateral endorsement of Occupy Wall Street brings home our lack of intellectual diversity

Posted by Michael Kraines

In an email sent last Wednesday night titled "Occupy Skidmore" in bold green and yellow letters, student body President Jonathan Zeidan invited all students to participate in a "passive protest" to be held in Case Center the next day, in coordination with the Occupy Wall Street movement and nearly a hundred schools across the country. The protest has not yet taken place and according to Student Government representatives will be rescheduled for a date in the near future.

This endorsement of the so-called Occupy Wall Street movement by Student Government betrays a lack of intellectual diversity that is endemic to our college campus.

At first glance, the ideas behind this protest appear reasonable and universally appealing: across the nation the recession has left students swimming in a pool of debt and has mired our futures in uncertainty. Surely all of us want to close the achievement gap in education. But beneath the veneer of our common concerns the Student Government has endorsed and aligned itself with a movement that is ideologically progressive.

In a recent piece in the Washington Post, George Will summarized some of the demands posted in Occupy Wall Street's name. These include "guaranteed living wage income regardless of employment," a $20-an-hour minimum wage, ending the fossil fuel economy, and among other ideas, opening the borders so "anyone can travel anywhere to work and live."

Representing as it does all of the student body, and not merely those who endorse the movement, the Student Government should not have aligned itself with the Wall Street protests nor provided materials for picket signs with money that is funded by the college.

If we discuss these initiatives on their own terms, the titles "Occupy Wall Street" or "Occupy Skidmore" suggest ending deliberation about the issues and imposing ideas on the entire community. Why must ideas be imposed? Why must the call for change amount to an occupation? Such intolerance is characteristic of protests generally and antithetical to the notion of diversity that is dear to Skidmore and critical to attaining a genuine liberal education.

Thankfully, the protest intends to be "passive" and students have been told not to miss class to participate. President Zeidan cautiously reminds us that "this will not be a protest against Skidmore but rather a movement for a better future."

But what is unsettling about the Student Government's endorsement and extension of the Wall Street protests, suffused as they are with political ideology, is its implicit assumption that we all agree on what is good for us or on what is "better for our future."

I suspect that this article will come as a surprise to our student reps who undoubtedly have the best intentions. But their silence about the specific demands of the protest is curious. Either they are unaware of the politics motivating the Wall Street protests or are under the impression that the students all agree on the desired policy changes and therefore need not speak of them. The latter possibility would cast doubt on the existence of genuinely diverse opinions on campus. Diversity emerges, after all, not from a consensus regarding our afflictions but from our differing antidotes.

The email speaks to those who wish to "make their voices heard." Here is another indication that the protestors are not interested in debating the issues but are merely "making a statement." In the Politics, Aristotle argues that our uniquely human capacity for speech allows us to reason about the good and the bad — the just and the unjust — and distinguishes us from animals that can only voice pain and pleasure. Awareness of this distinction between speech and noise is what is missing from the Occupy Skidmore initiative.

If indeed we are most fully human when engaged in rational deliberation about politics as Aristotle says we are, then we ought to seriously engage one another rather than simply "make our voices heard" under the assumption that we alone know what it is best. This will be the beginning of moral and political seriousness. 

EAC composting initiative in Northwoods: Environmental Action Club lessens food waste in student apartments

Posted by Andrew Shi In the spring semester of 2011, Talia Arnow '13, chairwoman of the Environmental Action Club's (EAC) Compost Subcommittee, created the compost initiative, which is now active in the Northwoods apartments.

A food waste audit was conducted in the Murray-Aikins Dining Hall last semester to determine how much food the college wastes on a weekly basis. The results came out to nearly half a ton of wasted food per day in pre- and post-consumer food, totaling 6986.50 pounds in one week. The Compost Subcommittee has now moved the initiative to Northwoods, and hopes to eventually expand the system to the rest of the college.

"The residential composting initiate has been very successful and has met [EAC] expectations," Campus Sustainability Coordinator Riley Neugebauer said.

At the beginning of the semester, each apartment is given one white two-gallon pail, and a pamphlet explaining what can be composted. During the week, residents are expected to put scraps of uneaten food into the bucket and then, when the bucket is full, dump the waste into a larger grey bucket situated outside each building near the laundry room.

Every Friday afternoon, EAC volunteers take these grey buckets to a large, four-part compost bin in Scribner Village. There, the compost is converted through several steps into the fertilizer used for the Student Garden.

The original cost of the compost initiative, Neugebauer said, was approximately $2,200-2,300. These funds were allocated mostly for the purchase of the large compost bin, the smaller buckets, lids, shovels and other tools. However, composting now "costs nothing to maintain per month because it is being handled [by] volunteers in EAC," Neugebauer said.

As to how much the compost initiative has saved the college, "it is not likely to be saving a lot of money currently, if any, because it isn't affecting the number of times that Springer Waster [the company hired to remove the college's waste] has to haul waste offsite from campus as of now," Neugebauer said. The amount of waste composted by Northwoods is, in respect to the total amount of waste by the college, too small to financially benefit it, although not insignificant.

Neugebauer said the current initiative is partially experimental, and, depending on any issues that arise, the project may be expanded to Scribner Housing and further. Neugebauer said that the EAC members will most likely "consider expansion once we are confident that there are enough people to handle the workload, and decide whether another bin is needed to handle the additional waste."

Neugebauer says current Northwoods resident participation in the compost initiative is at 17 percent. She adds that most residents were satisfied and excited about the initiative. Annie Wu '12, a Northwoods resident, agrees with this consensus. "I like the idea of it, but there is a concern that it attracts and breeds flies."

Lids for the buckets were included this semester to help ward off the flies, but this still seems to be an issue that the EAC will have to deal with.

This project is an important step in creating a more environmentally geared and conscious campus, Neugebauer said. "The more we can tie conceptual information from the classroom to real-world projects, the more accessible, practical and possible sustainability will be." Arnow said that she supports all the information provided by Neugebauer, adding that she believes the initiative has been a great success for EAC and volunteers.

Neugebauer said that "it is necessary to look at the larger scope of waste and how we can reduce the waste stream in multiple ways... which in total has the potential to reduce costs and reduce emissions and be more sustainable." The compost system is only one method employed to reduce waste. Students are encouraged to lessen waste in the dining hall, in their apartments and dorms, and to be environmentally mindful every day.

Thoroughbreds go 3-0 at RIT

Posted by Skidmore Athletics

ROCHESTER - After a 3-0 win over Bard on Friday, the Skidmore College volleyball team posted a pair of 3-1 wins over Vassar and RIT on Saturday to go 3-0 in Liberty League play this weekend at Clark Gymnasium.

The Thoroughbreds improve to 6-3 in league play and 18-8 overall.

In the win over Bard, Corrine Palmer '14 had 10 kills, while Mallory Mendelsohn '13 and Emma Wilberg ‘14 each finished with 12 assists. Wilberg came into the game at a critical point and gave the Thoroughbreds the extra spark they needed.

Against Vassar, Carolyn Bottelier '13 had a double-double with 10 kills and 14 digs. Kelley Vershbow '12 added a match-high 16 kills and Sam Friedman finished with 15 digs.

After dropping the first set against RIT, Skidmore rallied to win the next three and finish the weekend a perfect 3-0. Mendelsohn recorded a double-double with 36 assists and 11 digs. Bottelier finished with 21 digs, while Vershbow finished with 13 kills and Palmer had 10.

The Thoroughbreds return to action on Oct. 21 against RIT at Union.

Skidmore Athletics

Skidmore claims five of nine NY State tennis titles

Posted by Skidmore Athletics

ROCHESTER/MOBILE A.l. - The final count was Skidmore five and the rest of the state four as the Thoroughbreds won five of a possible nine NY State Division III Women's Tennis titles on Sunday at the Mendon Racquet Club.

The amazing part of the dominating performance was that two of the team's top players were in Alabama competing in the USTA/ITA national championships.

The Skidmore College doubles team of Nataly Mendoza '13 and Lee Ford '14 finished fourth at the USTA/ITA National Small College Championships at the Copeland-Cox Tennis Center in Mobile.

In the New York State tournament, Skidmore had players in all six singles finals. Winning were Tory Engros '12 at No. 2, Alex Smith '15 at No. 5 and Zoe Valella '15 at No. 6.

Engros beat Elkie Vandenbeemt of St. Lawrence 6-0, 6-0. Smith won in three over Anisha Kurien of Vassar 6-4, 3-6, 10-4 and Valella beat Megan Moore of NYU 6-1, 6-0.

The number two doubles team of Robyn Baird '14 and Smith won 8-2 over Lindsay Kantor and Hannah Van Demark of Vassar, while Melissa Hirsch '14 and Yumi Karlshoei '15 beat Melanie Horn and Kurien of Vassar 8-6.

Hirsch lost to Maitevera Antelo of RIT 4-6, 6-2, 10-4 in the number one singles championship match. Baird was unable to complete her number three singles championship match and Molly Nolan '14 lost to Linsday Kantor of Vassar 6-2, 6-2 in the fourth singles championship.

Skidmore Athletics

Thoroughbreds cruise past Wheaton, 6-1

Posted by Skidmore Athletics

SARATOGA SPRINGS – Eight different players recorded a point as No. 5 Skidmore defeated Wheaton, 6-1 in Sunday's non-league field hockey matchup at Thoroughbred Field.

The Thoroughbreds improve to 12-1, extending their home winning streak to 26 games, while the Lyons fall to 7-7.

Just over five minutes in, Ceilidh MacNeill '13 got the scoring started with her sixth goal of the season. MacNeill redirected a shot from the top of the circle by Annie Rosencrans '12 to make it 1-0. At the 24:40 mark, Skidmore made it 2-0 with another redirection, this time by Kelly Blackhurst '14 with the assist to Molly Gile '13. The Thoroughbreds made it 3-0 with 25 seconds remaining in the half on Blackhurst's second goal of the game. Rosencrans sent a perfect leading pass to Blackhurst, who was able to sneak it past Wheaton goalie Ellie Massengill.

Skidmore remained in control in the second half as Rosencrans pushed the lead to four, scoring on a corner for her ninth tally of the season. Lauren Tobias '12 and Hilary Cranston '13 assisted on the goal. At the 51:10 mark, Blackhurst sent a lift in to the circle that Sam Skott '15 was able to control and score on to make it 5-0. Tobias capped off Skidmore's scoring at the 61:22 mark, when she redirected Alison Frey's '12 pass from outside the circle for her 10th goal of the season.

The Lyons were able to get on the board late, Emily Asack sent a shot on goal that was saved by Haley McDougall '15, but Carmela Luzi got the rebound and put it in to avoid the shutout.

McDougall made two saves in 64:54 of action and Amy Beck '15 finished the game in goal for Skidmore, not facing a shot over the final 5:06. Massengill finished with 14 saves for Wheaton.

The Thoroughbreds outshot the Lyons, 27-5 and held a 12-3 advantage in penalty corners.

Skidmore resumes league play on Oct. 21 at Union.

Skidmore Athletics

Skidmore falls 1-0 to Utica

Posted by Skidmore Athletics

SARATOGA SPRINGS - The Skidmore College men's soccer team dropped a 1-0 non-league contest to Utica College, Sunday at Wachenheim Field.

The Thoroughbreds are 5-9-1, while the Pioneers move to 7-5.

The game's lone goal came in the second half when Utica's Jonathon Peterson sent a cross from the right side to the head of Jeffrey Cupka who connected for his second goal of the year at 70:31.

Skidmore had a narrow 12-10 shot advantage. There were only four corner kicks in the game, with each team taking two.

Anthony Caruso had four saves in goal for the shutout. Nick Peterson '12 had four saves for the Thoroughbreds.

Skidmore returns to league action on Wednesday night at 7 p.m. with a home match against Rensselaer.

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Women's soccer wins big at Utica, 5-0

Posted by Skidmore Athletics

UTICA - The Skidmore College women's soccer team rolled past Utica to a 5-0 win, Sunday afternoon at Charles A. Gaetano Stadium.

The Thoroughbreds improve to 10-4, while the Pioneers fall to 3-10.

Skidmore was in control from the start as Kelsey Yam '13 put home a rebound in the eighth minute for an early 1-0 lead. Abby Benton '12 made it a two goal lead in the 16th minute, scoring off a rebound for her second goal of the season.

With a 2-0 lead at half, the Thoroughbreds came out just as strong in the second half, putting up three goals in the period. Sarah LaBella '13 took a pass from Christine Bellotti '14 and chipped it in from 20 yards out in the 69th minute. At the 71:00 mark, Katie Rasche '12 put home her first collegiate goal with an assist from Elena Stansky '12 and Yam capped off the scoring with her second goal of the game, putting home a pass from Michelle Finan '13 in the 86th minute.

Meghan Sleezer '12 earned the win, facing no shots in the first half, while Gab Lawrence '14 played the second half and made four saves. Samantha Glockling finished with 12 saves for Utica.

Skidmore held a 27-4 advantage in shots.

The Thoroughbreds are at Clarkson on Oct. 22.

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Daydreams: Have we forgotten?: We cannot let domestic crises overshadow awareness of our foreign wars

Posted by Richard Chrisman

"Houston, we have a problem." Everybody knows that line. Two-thirds of the way to the moon the three-man crew of Apollo 13 experienced a mission-ending explosion in one of the lunar module oxygen tanks. Their craft had already entered the moon's gravitational field, so turning around at that point was impossible. They certainly did have a problem. How would they ever get home again safely?

I bring up this event because it seems like the U.S. hadn't been in a pickle like that since then, until the Afghanistan war. We went in. Disasters struck. Now the mission can't be attained but, being two-thirds of the way there, we can't turn back. If our troops are to return safely, it's going to take some very ingenious maneuvering.

The analogy is far from perfect because our present situation is already an advanced tragedy. Vastly more than a small space crew has been mortally involved, and vastly more money. Not to mention the fate of another entire nation and its people, particularly the women who are vulnerable to reprisal. But the analogy makes the point well enough. We might as well be almost 200,000 miles from home. And since the original goal is clearly unattainable according to all professional and popular accounts, people across the country unhelpfully call for some kind of strategy that goes both forward and back.

The geniuses at the Houston Space Center devised a strategy for escape using simple physics and 1st generation computers — plus immense personal fortitude on the part of the crew and support personnel. I don't think that's in the cards for America now. For one thing, the disasters in Afghanistan have translated themselves to the homeland where explosions have ripped apart Wall Street and Main Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. This time our decision-making centers have been disabled — that didn't happen in Houston.

Let's not spend any time debating the merits of the war policy and how we got into it. Worthy or not, the war effort is nevertheless the root of our financial crises today. What we need is a national consciousness and effort that is the "moral equivalent of war." When William James coined this phrase, he was inciting us to challenge the universally accepted assumption that "War is, in short, a permanent human obligation." Do we just want to cave in to this assumption? If we do, war will remain our default position for lack of a voluble critique. So where is the critique? Where are the voices calling out, "By the bowels of Christ, bethink yourselves that ye might be WRONG?" That was Oliver Cromwell's plea when Charles I was about to be beheaded in 1649.

Let's inventory the voices questioning war. Notice that the subject has not come up once in the Republican presidential candidates' four debates (nor did it in the 2010 elections). Notice that there is no discussion about it in Congress or at the White House. And, apart from Ralph Nader, Ron Paul, Dennis Kucinich and a few signs at the Occupy Wall Street protest saying, "Stop the War," the silence is deafening. The religious communities are silent on this as well. But, you know, it is pretty silent around campus, too. Most people think there is nothing to discuss and leave it to our proxies on MSNBC, CNN and FOX News to do what talking there is. How uncharacteristic of the academy that will study and talk about almost anything!

Shouldn't we be worried that, as we go from one crisis to another, the country might completely forget we are running a war this week? It's like leaving the house and forgetting to put the screen over the fireplace!

I once learned from Thomas Hardy that, "If a way to the better there be, it requires a full look at the worst." We need an on-going, spiritual acknowledgement of the very reality faced by Apollo 13 — they had enough consumables (electricity, power, oxygen) for two men for two days, but they were three men who had to go four days with their lives on the line. Would they get back at all? Will our troops? Will they be coming back to the same country they left? They will only do so if the costs of war become present to our spirits, by some emotional or symbolic means, through art, or dialogue or (even) prayer.

What commitment can we at Skidmore make to keep this subject before us, lest we forget that death is ordered every day in our name while we sift through the the playlists on our iPods?

Richard Chrisman is the Director of Religious and Spiritual Life on campus. He enjoys looking out at Skidmore through his office window.

Hitler, Stalin, Mussolini... Oh my!: Professor Flagg Taylor discusses new book on totalitarianism

Posted by Kelsey Nichols

Flagg Taylor's new book, "The Great Lie," is a selection of 36 essays that address the power and scope of totalitarianism, a phenomenon that dominated the 20th century.

The volume aims to make the writings of these notable political authors more accessible and manageable. The work is a hefty piece of reading at around 600 pages and is arranged in six different subsections to help its readers grasp the complex political, philosophical and moral dilemmas detailed in the book.

One of Professor Taylor's favorite sections is titled "Seduction." It emphasizes the allure of the utopia that attracted so many followers. Taylor feels it can be difficult for a generation that did not experience the propaganda of totalitarianism to understand this allure. The most prominent leaders of totalitarian regimes are names that will not soon be forgotten — Hitler, Mussolini and Stalin to name a few. Each leader found multitudes of followers who were seduced by the promise of a better world.

Taylor has always been interested in political science, but it wasn't until he wrote his dissertation about 10 years ago that he found himself overwhelmed by the works of 20th century political dissidents such as Aleksander Solzhenitsyn and Vaclav Havel. In 2005, Taylor had the opportunity to teach a summer class called "Dissident Political Thought," which has since become a regular course offering at Skidmore. After teaching this class, Taylor recognized the need for the creation of a neat compilation of some of the best and brightest authors on this subject.

Taylor's dedication to creating the compilation was prompted by his desire for present and future generations to remember the power of totalitarianism.

"Most of the authors that I collect in the book are either dead or getting old," Taylor said. "We, especially in America, have no direct connection to the experience of what it was like to live under those regimes… [therefore] each generation has to take it upon themselves to learn about political evil and the temptation of ideologies."

Taylor hopes that information about the citizens under these past regimes can prevent the totalitarian temptation from taking hold again. "Evil does not come knocking at the door promising evil. It is attractive and promises good," Taylor said.

Taylor and former Government Professor Carl Scott are currently working on another book of essays that touches on these themes about the award winning German film, "The Lives of Others," a film about life in East Germany under Communism in the 1980s.

"The Trip," the summer's hidden gem, will soon be on DVD: British comedy delights despite absence of plot and drama

Posted by Eli Cohen

In light of the summer film season — a season dominated by the likes of Michael Bay and Ryan Reynolds — "The Trip,'' a hilarious, quasi-documentary film starring British comics Steve Coogan (from ‘The Other Guys," "Tropic Thunder") and Rob Brydon, best known to American audiences as the traffic warden in "Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels," received meager attention.

However, that's not to say it was not well received. The comedic styles of the two actors are perfectly in sync, both with each other and with director Michael Winterbottom. This chemistry likely resulted from the trio's working together in the similarly hilarious "Tristram Shandy: A Cock and Bull Story."

‘‘The Trip'' follows two comedians as they tour the finest restaurants of England. Initially meant as a get-away trip for Coogan and his girlfriend, Coogan is forced to invite Brydon when his romantic relationship fails. The two men share a like-despise relationship. Coogan chases after women and flaunts his success, while the less well-regarded Brydon spends the trip doing impressions and pissing Coogan the hell off. And yet, for every socially inappropriate, over the top Michael Caine, Al Pacino or Bond villain impression that Brydon does (brilliantly), Coogan feels the need to one-up him, or at least match him.

The insecurities of Coogan's character (a vastly exaggerated view of himself) shine through constantly. This is especially true when Brydon is recognized at a small hotel and Coogan, most egregiously, is not.

And of course, when the trip is over, Brydon goes back to his loving family, while Coogan is left to listlessly float around his impressively large city flat in what turns out to be a surprisingly gentle and touching ending.

"The Trip" is to posh British food what "Sideways" was to California wine snobs. Like Paul Giamatti and Thomas Haden Church, it soon becomes clear that neither Coogan nor Brydon has any idea what they're talking about when it comes to food. The most astute observation made about the cuisine is that the tomato soup is, in fact, quite tomato-y. But the actors seem to care about the food they're eating about as much as they care about the audience (which does not exist). Instead, the real focus of the film is on celebrity, success, friendship and, of course, how to pull off the perfect Michael Caine impression.

Adapted from a six-part BBC miniseries, "The Trip" does not have the action and excitement of American summer movies. It has no drama or suspense (except the occasional possibility of Coogan actually murdering his companion), and very little plot of which to speak. Yet, it is the perfect hidden gem of the summer. The performances are spot on: witty and profound, annoying and endearing. And, of course, the impressions are fantastic, as is the competition to see who can sound the most like a Bond villain while simultaneously sipping Cognac. This is a must-see movie — a true delight in a season of recycled storylines and plot-replacing visual effects.

Middlebury wins non-conference volleyball showdown

Posted by Skidmore Athletics

MIDDLEBURY, Vt.— The Skidmore College volleyball team lost a 3-0 (25-12, 25-18, 25-22) match to Middlebury College, Tuesday night.

The loss drops the Thoroughbreds to 15-8, while the Panthers improve to 11-5.

Mallory Mendelsohn '13 registered a double/double for the Thoroughbreds with 20 assists and 10 digs. She also had two service aces. Kelley Vershbow '12 had eight kills and six digs and Elise Finnerty '14 added five kills and four blocks (one solo).

Skidmore returns to Liberty League action at 7:30 p.m. on Friday when the team travels to RIT to take on Bard.

Skidmore Athletics

Skidmore drops 2-1 OT decision to Oneonta

Posted by Skidmore Athletics

ONEONTA— Oneonta scored 50 seconds into the second overtime for a 2-1 non-league men's soccer win over Skidmore College, Wednesday, Oct. 12.

The loss leaves the Thoroughbreds at 5-8-1. The Red Dragons are 9-2-2.

Oneonta scored first when Nicolas Lange converted a penalty kick at 62:25. Skidmore tied it at 83:02 when Diegeo Reinero '12 connected from 30-yards out.

Nicholas Gregg got the winner on a header off a corner at 100:50.

Nick Peterson '12 had four saves in net for the Thoroughbreds, including two in the overtime. Oneonta had a lopsided 19-5 shot advantage, but only managed five shots on goal.

Skidmore is home at 2 p.m. on Sunday against Utica College

Skidmore Athletics

SGA Senate holds elections, discusses Scribner Library renovations

Posted by Ani Lordkipanidze

The SGA Senate had the Willingness-to-Serve elections this week. Students ran for positions on the Speakers Bureau, Club Affairs Committee, Committee on Academic Standing, Class of 2012 Secretary, Class of 2015 Secretary, Integrity Board, Skidmore Shop Advisory Committee and Committee on Academic Freedom and Rights.

Every candidate came to the stage and delivered a brief speech, followed by questions from the audience.

Next followed a conversation with Justin Sipher, chief technology officer, and librarians and architects, who talked about the ongoing renovations to the Lucy Scribner Library. According to them, the changes made in the library were based on students' wishes, such as the café, which was recently incorporated into library.

The changes in the library include additional study rooms, works stations, recording rooms and power outlets. Study rooms will operate on a reserve mechanism, so that students may reserve a study room in advance to guarantee a place to study.

Members of several clubs, who are seeking funds from SGA to sponsor their activities, also presented at the meeting.

Senate meets from 8 to 11 p.m. every Thursday in Ladd Hall 307. 

Skidmore finishes 11th in Golfweek Invitational

Posted by Skidmore Athletics

Sandestin, F.l— Despite Anthony Dillisio's '13 final round 67, the Skidmore College golf team finished 11th in the Golfweek Division III Fall Invitational being played at the par-71 Raven Golf Club at Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort.

The Thoroughbreds shot 307-308-295--910. Guilford led from start-to-finish, winning with 290-296-288--874. The tournament featured 18 of the nation's top NCAA Division III schools.

Texas Tyler (291-304-288-883) and Illinois Wesleyan (298-297-288--883) tied for second. Oglethorpe (303-305-278--886) and Rhodes College (296-313—292--901) round out the top five.

Guilford's Noah Ratner also lead the entire way, shooting a 9-under-par 66-69-69--204. Dillisio moved to fifth with his final-round 67, finishing 3-over with 74-75-67—216. He had seven birdies, including two on par-threes.

"Anthony continues to improve and impress," Skidmore coach Josh Cupp said. " He treaded water the first couple days and scored adequately in adverse conditions. When the conditions improved he seized the opportunity and went low. A top-5 finish in an event this strong is quite an accomplishment."

Also for the Thoroughbreds, Zack Grossman '15 (77-79-77--233 tied for 53rd. Garrett Colgan '13 (75-81-78—234) tied for 56th. John McCarthy '13 (87-74-74—235) tied for 60th and Scott Pinder '14 (81-80-77—238) tied for 69th.

Skidmore Athletics

Career Services sponsors third Career Jam this Friday: Programs give students the opportunity to learn more about careers and networking

Posted by Julia Leef

This week, Career Services has hosted a variety of programs for students concerning jobs and graduate schools, culminating in Career Jam, an event that allows students to connect with parents and alumni who work a wide variety of careers.

The College played host to many visiting graduate schools, including Fordham University of Education, Whitman School of Management at Syracuse University and Albany Law School. These schools have had booths set up in Case Center, where students may speak with them and learn more information about their programs.

There were also two information sessions on Oct. 5 and 6 concerning the job-shadowing program, which students must apply for by Oct. 28.

On Oct. 14, students will have the opportunity to speak to volunteers from many different industries, allowing them to make connections and learn more about their fields of interest. An informational meeting on how best to capitalize on this networking event, "How to Get the Most Out of Career Jam," took place on Oct. 13.

"The event is a collaboration between the Parents Council, the Alumni Association and Career Services," said Deborah Loffredo, director of Career Services. "We reach out to recruit volunteers who are parents, alumni and friends of the College to come network with the students so that they can learn about careers within a diverse set of industries."

Participants in Career Jam come from a wide variety of fields, including the military, advertising, the performing arts, business entrepreneurship, psychology, medicine and cell biology.

Students will be provided with short volunteer bios, suggested questions to ask and networking tips. Volunteers are encouraged to promote job openings and shadowing opportunities, and to aid students in their career pursuits.

Loffredo suggests that students follow-up with the volunteers with whom they speak, and to keep in touch in case a position opens up sometime in the future. For other opportunities outside of Career Jam, she suggests visiting Career Services for counseling and checking out its website for a list of upcoming events and opportunities, including a Living the Liberal Arts workshop at 6 p.m. Oct. 17.

Career Services encourages all students of all years to start networking at an early stage. "It's never too early to start thinking about internships," Loffredo said.

Career Jam will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. Oct. 14 on the second floor of the Murray-Aikins Dining Hall. Students are advised to dress professionally. 

The Big Show: TV On The Radio impresses students and Saratogians alike: Brooklyn band's art rock brings crowd to their feet

Posted by Dale Obbie

Starting the first weekend of October on a high note, Brooklyn-based art rock band TV on The Radio performed one of the most well attended Big Shows of the past few years at the College. Austra, a dance rock band from Canada, opened the much-anticipated show in the Sports Center's big gym.

The opportunity cost of the act was beyond the check Student Government Association wrote for the Student Entertainment Committee, the club responsible for organizing the show, because there will be no Big Show spring semester. Ticket prices for Skidmore students were $8 and $25 for non-Skidmore students.

Despite the higher price, students were not the only members of the audience. There seemed to be just as many Saratoga residents dancing, clapping and singing along.

One of the highlights of the night was "Golden Age," for which Kyp Malone stepped up to sing the playful staccato lyrics. Lead singer Tunde Adebimpe joined Malone during the choruses in uplifting harmonies, and both of them smiled as they sang about "the joy resounding." When they sang "clap your hands if you think you're in the right place," the crowd's immediate response made it clear that they were right where they belonged.

As a pleasant surprise, the band played an energetic cover of Fugazi's "Waiting Room," showing the band members' love for punk rock. The crowd seemed to share the love. People thrashed around, and at one point, several began crowd surfing.

Another highlight was the closer "Wolf Like Me," one of the band's most well known songs. Adebimpe paced back and forth on the stage and let loose howling vocals, while David Sitek's thin guitar tone echoed his tormented singing.

As soon as the song ended, the crowd burst into applause and began chanting for "one more song." Not long after, the band returned to the stage – smiling and gracious – and played a final two songs, ending the night with the spacey "Satellite."

Students and parents gather for Celebration Weekend: The Office of Alumni Affairs & College Events sponsors events for the weekend

Posted by Julia Leef

As students and parents gather together for the upcoming weekend, they will have the opportunity to attend a variety of programs sponsored by the Office of Alumni Affairs & College Events that make up the annual Celebration Weekend, which takes place from Oct. 14 to 16.

Families will be able to see the college's facilities through events, open houses, interactions with the administration, performances at the Arthur Zankel Music Center and the SGA Club Fair.

"This is our opportunity to really showcase the great things at Skidmore that don't necessarily show every weekend," said Megan Mercier, associate director of Alumni Affairs & College Events, who will be in charge of Celebration Weekend for her fourth year. "It's a great way to engage parents in the life of the college."

Mercier said planning for Celebration Weekend begins in January with making reservations for space on campus to host events. In April, initial callouts are sent to faculty members for participation in MiniCollege, a program that allows families to attend lectures featuring a variety of professors and topics.

These lectures include "Your Brain Is Not a Computer and Your Mind Isn't Computation" with Flip Phillips, director of the neuroscience program and professor of psychology, and "The Beatles ‘I Feel Fine' " with Gordon Thompson, professor of music, and are available from Friday to Saturday.

"We have found over the years that people really enjoy our schedule," said Mercier, citing feedback surveys from families in attendance from previous years.

From April until August, the Office of Alumni Affairs & College Events finalizes the details for Celebration Weekend, working with various facilities to set up events. One such facility is the Williamson Sports Center, which will host "Under the Big Top," an event that allows student performers to showcase their talents, which will take place on Saturday. Advanced reservations are strongly recommended.

Mercier said the Office of Alumni Affairs & College Events tries to make as much use of the college's resources as possible in order to control costs. "We do our best to use our resources carefully to showcase what the college is about," she said.

The Office of Alumni Affairs & College Events advertises for Celebration Weekend all year long.  It informs parents and students about the many events of the weekend through announcements in Scope Monthly, an online news publication, "Save-the-Date" cards sent to parents of the incoming first-year class, handouts given to families at registration and other media outlets, such as Facebook and Twitter.

"It's a real pleasure to work on this weekend," Mercier said. "It is nice to see it all come together, and it's a wonderful time to show off the best of the college."

A full schedule for Celebration Weekend, with information on events, facilities and a campus map key can be found here. Tickets for events may be picked up at the Welcome Desk on the second floor of Case Center.

Middlebury holds off Skidmore 1-0

Posted by Skidmore Athletics

SARATOGAS SPRINGS— An early goal was all Middlebury College needed in a hard fought 1-0 win over Skidmore College, Wednesday night at Wachenheim Field.

The Thoroughbreds are 9-4, while the Panthers snap a two-game losing streak to go to 7-3-1.

Skidmore came out strong with two shots on goal in the first five minutes, but the Panthers settled down and created their own chances. In the ninth minute, Middlebury's Scarlett Kirk rifled a shot toward an empty net for her team's first scoring opportunity, but Skidmore defender Caty Sheridan '15 quickly moved in to clear the ball off the line.

The Panthers kept the pressure on, getting on the board first at 19:11 when Amy Schlueter fired home a rebound from two yards out. The play started with a Devin Perkins header that Thoroughbred goalie Megan Sleezer '12 knocked down right to a waiting Schlueter.

The second half featured end-to-end play with both teams creating chances, but unable to finish.

Skidmore held a 15-11 edge in shots, while Middlebury had a 5-1 corner advantage.

Sleezer had five saves for the Thoroughbreds. Jocelyn Remmert and Elizabeth Foody combined for the shutout with Remmert stopping five shots in the first half and Foody making two saves in the second.

Skidmore is at Utica College at 1 p.m. on Sunday. 

Skidmore Athletics

No. 5 Skidmore downs Utica, 3-1

Posted by Skidmore Athletics

SARATOGA SPRINGS— The 5th-ranked Skidmore College field hockey team won its 25th consecutive home game, defeating Utica 3-1 on Wednesday afternoon.

The Thoroughbreds improve to 11-1, while the Pioneers fall to 8-5.

Annie Rosencrans '12 got the scoring started for Skidmore, taking a pass from Caylyn Sullivan '12 on the wing and sending it home at the 7:13 mark. The Thoroughbreds controlled the game offensively through most of the first half but at the 31-minute mark, Utica's Mallory Mariano lifted a shot that appeared to be going in before Hilary Cranston '13 made a defensive save on the goal line to help take a 1-0 lead into the half.

Skidmore made it 2-0 at the 40:29 mark on Kelly Blackhurst's '14 14th goal of the season. Sullivan sent a pass to Blackhurst in the circle that she corralled and beat Utica goalie Monica Storms. Sam Skott '15 pushed the lead to three goals at the 52:36 mark, redirecting a shot from Rosencrans for her fourth goal of the season.

Louise Steele-Norton was able to get the Pioneers on the board late in the second half, deflecting home a pass from Rebecca Corsones, but that would cap the game scoring, giving the Thoroughbreds the 3-1 victory.

Haley McDougall '15 finished with two saves to pick up her 10th win of the season, while Storms finished with six stops for Utica.

Skidmore outshot the Pioneers 21-4 and held a 14-4 advantage in penalty corners.

The Thoroughbreds host Wheaton at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 16.

Skidmore Athletics

Skidmore Democrats host Meet-the-Candidates night for Democrats running in local elections: Students and Saratoga community meet with candidates to discuss local issues

Posted by Michael DuPr??

Six Democrats running for various positions in New York introduced themselves to students on Tuesday night to share their platforms and connect with the student body.

About 20 Skidmore students and Saratoga Springs residents attended the meeting.

John Silvestri, running for the supreme Court of New York's Fourth Judicial District, touted his 30 years of litigation experience in the Fourth District. If elected, he will strive to be an impartial justice who grants all constituents equal standing before their government.

Brent Wilkes, a candidate running for mayor of Saratoga Springs, spoke to audience members about his life working in public administration. If elected, he promises to make the city's government more transparent and to negotiate new contracts with the police and firefighters unions.

When asked about considering a citywide ban on hydrofracking, Wilkes said he had concerns about the practice and had yet to see evidence of any positive aspects of it.

Wilkes also stressed the need to consider all forms of transportation when new road construction occurs, and insisted that he is committed to sustainability, as part of the Cool Cities Initiative.

Chris Mathiesen is vying for public safety commissioner on the Saratoga Springs City Council and expressed his desire to keep Saratoga Springs a vibrant and safe community. One of his biggest tenets involves moving the last call in Saratoga Springs drinking establishments from 4 a.m. to 3 a.m.

Mathiesen said he believes Downtown Saratoga Springs becomes dangerous in the early morning, and making the last call earlier would reduce the cost of policing the area. He also supports defraying the policing costs by raising revenue from bars that choose to stay open late.

Michele Madigan, who is running for commissioner of finance, pledged a commitment to an accurate budget. If elected, she promises to properly manage the city's budget and to reduce the number of line transfers in the budget and create a three- to five-year budget plan. 

Joanne Yepsen is running for re-election for her fourth term as the Saratoga County supervisor. She thanked students for their collaboration with sustainability groups and encouraged them to vote for all of the Democratic candidates present at the meeting.

Students responded positively to the efforts candidates made to address issues important to the student body. "I think that it is important that the candidates acknowledge that Skidmore is part of Saratoga Springs," Roz Freeman '12 said. "I appreciated Joanne Yepsen's openness and how much she clearly wanted to work with Skidmore students."

Emma Kurs '12 was also appreciative of the chance to hear the candidates' personal stories and plans. "I like that some of the candidates proposed holding office hours and informal conversations with constituents, and generally increasing transparency in the governing process. It was great to meet the candidates in person and hear directly from them because there is not much information online," Kurs said.

"It can be difficult at times to interest students in local politics," said Bryn Schockmel '12, president of Skidmore Democrats, "so it was really nice to have so many students come, and ask the political candidates important questions about the environment and other issues."

Students who are registered to vote in Saratoga Springs can participate in the next general election on Tuesday, Nov. 8. Registered voters will be able to vote at the Case Center polling from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Registrations must be completed by this Friday, Oct. 14, in order to vote this November. Vote registration booths can be found in the Atrium.