COSA: A Day Of Variety

By: Brandon Kamin, David Yourgrau, and Roger Lee

Ursinus’ celebration of student achievement will be held on April 23rd on its campus. This year promises to exemplify the diversity of interest of the student body. Some of the main attractions range from scientific research, to superheroes, to theater.


For instance, Ursinus College sophomore Josh Steinhouse has been passionately collecting and reading comic book since he was three. With a collection of four to five thousand comics, Steinhouse transformed this recreational passion into academic research.


Did you know that EVERY major character in comic books was created by members of Jewish faith?




Well, maybe not every character, but the majority of them for certain.






Superman? Jerry Seigel and Joe Shuster.






Batman? Bob Kane and Bill Finger.



Trying to incorporate his Jewish heritage with his loyalty to the comic world, Steinhouse has chosen to do an independent research on the affects of Judaism on comic books as his nucleus for his honors thesis for next year.


Referencing Superman’s “Man of Steel” nickname, Steinhouse has entitled his independent research “The Man of Schmear.” The word “Schmear” is Yiddish for “spread” and what better way to incorporate one’s faith than to talk about the stereotype of Jewish people and their obsession with bagels and a variety of spreads.


Steinhouse’s research will be on display at 1:00 p.m. in Olin 108.


From fantasy to reality, Ursinus Junior Christopher Reeves takes on a project that not only fulfills a research requirement, but could significantly change the world of science.


This daring biologist is doing extensive genetic research on C-Elegans with Dr. Lyzack and will be presenting his hypothesis during COSA.


Reeves, inspired by Dr. Lyzack’s research on PAM-1, decided to look at another gene known as PTL-1. “We are the first ones to investigate these two proteins,” said Reeves, who argues that one of these genes is detrimental to the nematode known as the C-Elegan.


“Once we understand the relationship between PAM-1 and PTL-1, we can further analyze how it impacts the C-Elegan,” explained Reeves.


Reeve’s presentation focuses on his hypothesis and some of his findings. However, there is much more to be accomplished. Reeves proclaimed, “I can’t wait for summer fellows!” This is when the junior will prove his hypothesis and engage in more extensive research.




Reeves plans to look at how PAM-1 and PTL-1’s impact on C-Elegans can possibly link to Alzheimer’s research.


From the lab to the stage, theater student and Breakaway Productions President Zach Shamberg will be hosting the annual drama presentation for COSA in Black Box Theater.


The performances will be seven short scenes performed by ten Ursinus College student. Admission to the event is free.



Each scene will be performed by two Ursinus students and the whole event will last roughly a half an hour. Of these ten talented students, two will be chosen by the judges of the American College Theater Festival to attend a drama workshop at Carnegie Mellon in Pittsburgh, PA.


Last year, the theatrical event at Ursinus College hosted an estimated sixty people, most of whom were Ursinus students.


This year Shamberg hopes for an even bigger audience.


“I don’t think enough people came to the shows and appreciate how good Ursinus Theater really is,” said Shamberg. “We want to show off the talent that Ursinus actors and actresses have to offer.”


According to Shamberg, most of the scenes will contain comedy, which is the strength of the performers.



“The best thing you can do when putting on comedy scenes is to make people laugh,” explained Shamberg, who thinks the group does this quiet well.



The only way to find out is by attending.

Motivations of Violence

Violence is reaching a new high in 2008. According to statistics, Philadelphia has seen more than 315 deaths just this year. A recent murder committed by teens on a subway platform has left many worried about their safety at school and while traveling.

“It can happen anywhere!” proclaimed New Jersey native Michael Flores. “I believe that the violence is stemming from a series of problems and frustrations that extend beyond today’s culture and music.” The college junior feels that today’s youth are split into two categories; “You have the side that’s scared to even walk outside and then there are the teens that don’t care because they think nothing can ever happen to them.”

Perhaps the latter was the mentality of four teens involved in last Wednesday’s subway beating in Philadelphia. Police charged one 10th grader with murder and conspiracy in the death of Sean Patrick Conroy. The victim was coming from work at a local Starbucks when four teens attacked him on a center city subway platform. Conroy was sent to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead. “It’s a stupid, random act of violence,” said Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter.

This random act of violence has hit home with several college students. It was a wake-up call that violence is not just a city issue, but an “everywhere issue.” Ursinus sophomore Justin Cunard spoke out on this random act of teen violence. “These teens who commit violence don’t realize the life they could have if they put their efforts in better things.”

Student Danny Mak said, “There are a lot of misguided youth with no mentours or places to go after school. When a youth doesn't feel loved and accepted in their family, they seek love amongst themselves or in gangs. This comes at the cost of doing what is socially unacceptable.”

Even on college campuses, some students don’t feel safe. “Honestly, I don’t feel safe if something would happen here on campus,” said Cunard. “If someone got attacked and managed to get to the security button, I wonder how fast security would react.” College sophomore Peter Serratore agrees there should be heightened security on campuses and transportation areas although it will be a trying task. “I think that they could employ more security around the campus environment to make the students feel more confident enough that nothing will happen. But how would that work for subways and bus stops? That's got me stumped,” said Serratore.

With all the fears and concerns, some feel that there are solutions to minimizing the outbreak of teen violence in our cities, towns, and campuses. Ursinus graduate Duncan Ramsey said, “If they were really serious about preventing violence and violent crimes, why not remove the age limit on how people get tried in court?” He continued, “There's no deterrent for crime really. Jail should not be some camp ground for people who just "happen" to break the law. It should be miserable and make people really think hard about breaking the law.”

The Cost of Living in "Reality"

By Roger Lee

As you walk down the aisle to receive your college diploma, it becomes crystal clear that you are leaving the dormitory to start a new life out in the real world. On television this “real world” appears very affordable, but in reality things can get quite expensive for new graduates.

In today’s society the luxury of independence comes with the high cost of car payments, utilities, food, cable and shopping expenses. College junior Errol Ismael is planning ahead for life after graduation. Ismael admits, “I’m pretty worried about the rising cost of living but I’m confident that I’ll be resourceful enough to bring down that cost.” Like Ismael, Ursinus senior Alissa Smith understands the importance of resourcefulness. “I plan on moving in with one of my good friends to help spread the cost of living.”

There are many college graduates who feel that having a roommate will help put their financial woes to rest. This mindset is most likely coming from the media’s representation of life after college. Television reinforces the common belief that roommates will help cut the cost of living. On “Living Single” the twenty-somethings live in a lavish apartment while obtaining dream jobs such as running a magazine. On the retro hit “Three’s Company,” the three roommates keep a full refrigerator while maintaining their spacious apartment. The characters in these shows aren’t exactly making six figures, yet these young adults live in some of the nicest apartments.

These shows work to paint a portrait of “idealism.” They show the happy roommates having a yard sale to come up with the months rent. Of course, they always come up with the money and everyone lives happily ever after. Yet they fail to show the roommate that walks out because he cannot come up with his end of the months rent. On “Friends” the rent may be a few hundred dollars, but in Philadelphia the average rent for a two bedroom two bathroom apartment is currently at $1342. If you think this is bad, try paying for last year’s average of $1430.

With school loans and rent payments, college graduates have a lot to take into account when entering the real world. Sure a roommate can help deduct the cost, but even with one bedroom and one bathroom the average monthly payment is $971. This only secures a roof over your head, leaving out utilities and the all important food bill. On “Friends” Rachel may buy a latte’ for a buck but in reality you are charged $3.25. Last July, the 3,533 licensed Starbucks found in grocery stores upped their prices 3 percent. Within these grocery stores the cost for home foods has increased 6.1 percent over the past year.

Television doesn’t show the struggle of young adults trying to get a handle on the cost of living. “Friends” takes place in a fantasy world where cars run on magic gas and groceries grow like water. In reality, college graduates will have to face the increasing cost of living.

Turn Random Acts of Kindness into Deliberate Acts of Love

By Roger Lee

Random acts of kindness make a difference in everyday life. Whether you performed a nice deed or were a recipient of kindness, these acts are something special. But just how far would a

person go for kindness? Earlier this week one man went as far as he could while losing his life in a random act of kindness.

It’s hard to believe that in this day and time people would risk their lives. Earlier this week one brave hero died trying to save a handicapped man. When two college sophomores were asked if they ever engaged in random acts of kindness, both said yes. They also admitted that they never risked their lives in the process.

“All I did was open a door,” recalled Collin Commiskey as he described the time he helped an older gentleman with a bad leg. “I never knew him personally, just saw him at Church once or twice,” recalled Commiskey. Sophomore Mike Chavones had a different story. “Whenever I see cars stranded on the side of the road, I stop and help,” admitted Chovanes. These sophomores would like to believe that if they saw someone in need, they will try their best to help. But what if the person in need could cost you your life?

That tragic thought played out yesterday morning on the Vine Street Expressway in Philadelphia. A motorist stopped his vehicle to help a disabled man stuck in an outer lane of the expressway. He was facing oncoming traffic when Joseph Kelly spotted him around 1:50 a.m. He parked his car and courageously traveled three lanes of traffic to wheel the disabled man to safety. As the two made their way to the far right lane, a pickup truck trying to avoid a pileup slammed into both men. They died almost instantly, police said.

When Mike and Collin learned of the tragedy, they rethought their own acts of kindness. Collin admitted, “If this happened to me in the middle of the daytime with lots of traffic, I’d think twice about stopping and helping the man.” Mike chimed in, “The morality of a decision should not be based on expediency, but rather what is right and wrong.” The roommates both agree that the act was courageous, noble, and a true testament to acts of kindness.

In light of the unfortunate deaths that occurred last Monday morning, people may in fact try and find ways to be nicer to one another. Although Joseph Kelly died trying to save the disabled homeless man on a highway, we as a society have the power to be kind on a smaller scheme. The little things like holding a door or helping a stranded car can also make a big difference. Random acts of kindness cannot be measured by their quantity, but their true intention. Helping is helping no matter what form it comes in. But if more people looked for ways to help one another, random acts of kindness would grow into deliberate acts of love.

QUIZ QUESTION NO. 3- RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS COSTS A MAN HIS LIFE

Random acts of kindness go a long way in today’s society. Along the Vine Street expressway, one act of kindness cost a man his life earlier this week.

Last Monday, a motorist stopped to help a disabled man stuck in an outer lane. Joseph Kelly traveled three lanes of traffic and wheeled the disabled man to safety when a truck slammed into both men, killing them instantly.

When two college sophomores were asked if they engaged in random acts of kindness, each said yes.

Collin Commiskey recalled, “I just opened a door.” He held the door for an elder with a bad leg. “I never knew him personally, just saw him at Church once or twice.” Sophomore Mike Chavones had a different story. “Whenever I see cars stranded on the side of the road, I always stop and help.” These sophomores would like to believe that if they saw someone in need, they would try their best to help.

In any case, college students should be careful while driving. They should aware of their surroundings at all times while making well thought out decisions. The popular “spur of the moment” instinct could cost a student their life out their life.

Secrets will never be the same again

By Roger Lee

We live in a “secret-obsessed” society full of reality television and advanced technology. We love hearing other people’s secrets because they make us feel better about ourselves. With the “Dirty Little Secret” campaign at Ursinus, people will have the opportunity to read secrets and tell their own.

“Voice your opinions, stand up and be heard!” smiled Resident Director Jared Rodrigues. In an interview, Rodrigues spoke about the program sponsored by Residence Life. The project promotes free speech while serving as a creative outlet for students. “We wanted to do something outside the box,” said Rodrigues.

But just how outside the box is this project? Junior Specner Jones said, "I think the whole idea behind "Secrets" is clever because we learn a lot about each other through the secrets." A sophomore added, "I would take one or two of the secrets seriously, but the rest of them seem like jokes."

If these are supposed to be jokes, not everyone will be laughing! Some students may be disturbed by the more controversial secrets. When asked how they felt about the postcards, some students were turned off while others embraced them. Some even feared that the author of the cards may be discovered. In any case, everything gets posted.

This unique form of secret telling first became popularized in 2005 by the website http://postsecret.com/. The site encourages people to post their secrets online for the world to see. The site became so successful that creator Frank Warren wrote a book with over 300 pages of secrets. Warren wrote “I hope people continue to bravely share their secrets on the site and viewers continue to share their understanding and compassion.”

When Residence Life caught wind of PostSecret, they decided to bring the phenomenon to Ursinus. They began the project this past January by creating postcards, drop boxes, a Facebook page and advertisements.

“We post everything!” said Rodrigues as he reflected on his favorite aspect of “ Dirty Little Secret.” He enjoyed posting all the light-hearted postcards along with the most serious ones.

No matter how serious the secret, each postcard had its own creative identity. The artistic skill level and thought that went into the postcards really took Rodrigues by surprise. He also acknowledged the emotion associated with the postcards. “When you see other people’s secrets and see that others can understand and get it, it’s a cool emotional experience.”

With so many postcards, there is a chance that someone on campus can learn and grow from a secret they have seen. Thanks to an overwhelming response of about 300 secrets within the two week posting period, “Dirty Little Secret” seems to have struck a chord on campus.“Even I have secrets up there!” laughed Rodrigues.

Although the secrets campaign ended February 8, Ursinus is currently looking for a place to keep the secrets. With such artistic postcards, a possible mural or design project could be in the works. The sky is the limit for these postcards and the Ursinus chapter of “Dirty Little Secrets.”



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MORE LINKS
Check out Emily McCloskey's blog for more info on the history of PostSecret.
Read Mark Iacolucci's view on Ursinus' own "Dirty Little Secret" campaign.

*WATCH THIS YOUTUBE CLIP OF POST SECRET SUBMISSIONS!*

Celebrities going crazy for primary candidates!

By Roger Lee

When Oprah Winfrey publicly announced that she would back Barack Obama in the 2008 primaries, other celebrities began endorsing their favorite candidates as well. The sudden increase in celebrity support may actually have an impact on this years primary election.

Natalie Wood, a marketing expert at St. Joseph’s University has done extensive research on celebrity endorsements. She feels that opinions from family and friends will carry more weight with young voters than celebrities. Professor David Jackson of Bowling Green State University feels that young voters will be influenced by celebrities. Through studies Jackson found that stars have the power to reinforce popular beliefs amongst young voters. However, Woods argues that celebrities can actually push young voters away from supporting a particular campaign.

In any case, stars have not stopped supporting their favorites in the upcoming primary. This star-studded support has been around since 1920 when a host of Broadway stars endorsed Republican Warren Harding’s presidential campaign. By the 1930’s, celebrity endorsements had become a common practice in America.

The stars of today are not shying away from their political pals either. Marla Maples, former Ms. Trump donated $2,000 to Hilary Clinton’s campaign while former Cincinnati mayor Jerry Springer gave more then just his two cents. “She is smart. I don’t mean just clever. I mean smart,” raved Springer who donated the maximum $4,6000. Even Willie Wonka’s Gene Wilder is getting in on the action. The actor made his first political financial backing with $2,3000 in support of Barack Obama.

Adult star Jenna Jameson is also getting involved. She is backing Hilary Clinton’s campaign for a number of reasons. “Hilary is pretty conservative for a democrat,” says Jameson. She adds that it would be nice to see a woman in office and a step in the right direction for our country. “There will be less focus on war and more on bettering society,” said Jameson.

But who can forget Oprah's support of the Obama campaign? For over two decades Oprah Winfrey has dominated the talk show circuit while becoming an actress, author, and entrepreneur extraordinaire. Her elite celebrity status makes people wonder whether her endorsing Obama will have the same powerful impact as her other endorsements. In a recent poll, 30 percent admit that Oprah will influence their vote. Out of those influenced, 15 percent said they would vote for Oprah’s choice and the other half said they would vote against it. The Democrats were pretty supportive of Winfrey’s endorsement with 23 percent admitting they would be more likely to vote for Oprah’s favorite candidate.

Oprah’s influence is further examined by Democrat Strategist Steve McMahon. In a FOX interview, McMahon says that Oprah has the potential to be influential in the 2008 primaries. He says that her strength lies in getting new people out to vote. Some are able to go out and collect the same voters who go to the same political events. However, Oprah can get fresh new faces that can really help Obama’s campaign reach new heights. --Rolee 23:58, 31 January 2008 (EST)

VIDEO

WATCH OPRAH ENDORSE THE OBAMA CAMPAIGN ON LARRY KING LIVE!

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MORE LINKS

Top 10 Effects of Celebrity Endorsements in the '08 Primary

Actor Jon Voight Endorses Rudy Giuliani Campaign

Unnoficial List of Celebrity Endorsers for the 2008 Primary! See if your favorite made the list!

Check out the POLL RESULTS of whether Oprah's endorsing Obama will have an impact on the '08 primaries!

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