Facebook crazy

If there’s one thing that 1 in 13 people in the world have in common nowadays, it’s the fact that they all have Facebook. While the fact that Facebook exists is certainly no secret to the world, I think the extent to which many people are using it would absolutely blow people’s minds to look at on paper. Facebook was originally created for students of Harvard to network and circulate amongst each other, while gradually adding other universities into the mix, until it all became one unit. Many other people began joining Facebook to keep in touch with old friends, long-distance family, and etc. But rather recently, in the opinions of many, Facebook has become out of control. The whole purpose is just being abused by (again, in many opinions) people with nothing else to do. There are many “Facebook personas” that people can easily be classified into, and if one took a look at their own friends list, it would be quite simple to separate each friend into their own individual group, or most anyway; however, there are far too many of these online personalities to name them all, so the following are just to name a few. One very popular persona is the person who uses their Facebook as a diary, frequently posting things that would qualify as “TMI” or “WTF” moments, also classified as the complainer. The complainer is famous for taking the “What’s on your mind?” question in the status box a little bit too literally. A very similar persona is that of the person who logs onto Facebook and gives all who will take the time to read a play-by-play of their day, for example, “Shower, breakfast, getting ready, school, lunch, practice, dentist, homework, dinner, movies, then bed! Wow, got a long day ahead of me!” This is what many would consider a direct misuse of Facebook. The second is the drama starter- mostly someone who posts statuses, usually also complaining or just simply ripping someone apart, without using names, but the recipient to the abuse is usually a clear shot, which 9 times out of 10 turns into a knockdown, drag-out status comment war (these people usually include, but are not limited to, high school students.) Leah Davis, a student at Onondaga Community College, explains her thoughts on Facebook fights, “They’re completely useless, no one ever wins and everyone just pretends to be someone they’re not. Just when you think you won a Facebook fight you realize you’ve been verbally abusing someone from the comfort of your own home and behind a computer screen (*laughs*).” While all of these Facebook users are equally annoying, these are not the only abusive behaviors committed on Facebook, because there are simply too many to name, but just to list off just a few more, we all have: the excessive photo uploader, the “trying too hard to be funny and not succeeding guy,” the aunt or other older relative that feels the need to comment on anything you post/are tagged in, and last but not least, the “friend” we all have, the one that goes out on the weekend and decides to document every drunken mishap. While there are still many people that use Facebook for what it was created for, staying in touch with friends, family, and acquaintances, the ones who abuse it are appearing to far surpass the innocent. “People just take Facebook way too far, you don’t even need to have talked to someone in years and you could know every detail of their life,” says Nathan George, a freshman at Springfield College in Springfield, Mass. That statement couldn’t be truer. Without even ever seeing someone in person you could know everything about them, right down to the outfits they wear each day (see: excessive photo uploader). So, if while reading this a thought entered your mind that maybe you might be guilty of committing any of these offenses, take this advice: set the computer/smartphone aside for a little while, perhaps you could read a book, purchase a diary, or take your dog for a walk, anything to get your eyes off the computer screen; it’s for your own good, and your Facebook friends will thank you.

With last Monday, April 2 being Autism Awareness day, millions of people around the country and around the world wore blue to support and spread awareness for a still very mysterious disorder. Despite the many people who wore blue that day, autism is still something that sometimes falls under the radar when it comes to knowledge of the disorder, as well as funding in pursuits of a cure. A very broad definition of autism, according to autismspeaks.org, would be “[varying] difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors,” but there is very many different types of autism and a very wide spectrum of degrees of the disorder. A high-functioning case of Autism can often lead a very normal, self-sufficient life into their adulthood; however, low functioning cases often don’t stand a chance when it comes to living on their own and leading a normal life. Autism roots in early brain development and tends to emerge, and be diagnosed between the ages of 2 and 3 years, as of right now there is no known exact cause or cure to this disorder. Autism is on the rise, with the diagnosis increasing ten-fold within the past 40 years. It affects 1 in 88 American children, and 1 in 54 boys. This year, more children will be diagnosed with Autism than pediatric AIDS, diabetes, and cancer of any type combined; however, it receives less than 5% of the research funding of those less common childhood diseases. Although Autism is not life-threatening, it affects its victims and its victims’ families for life. One example of a mother who is no stranger to the heartbreak that comes when your child is diagnosed with Autism is Toby Jacobs-Mijolovic, of Newport, NY. Toby is the mother of Michael, who, some might describe as a 12-year-old boy genius; however, there was a time when Toby worried if Michael would ever speak. As a newborn, Toby described her son as very verbal and very active, he spoke 10 words by 10 months old. But something happened after Michael received his vaccinations, he “stopped talking, stopped playing, all he would do was stare at ceiling fans and line up is matchbox cars in a row,” according to his mother. When Michael was diagnosed with Autism, his parents, Simon and Toby, were told he would never speak, never go to normal school or have friends, and ultimately never live a normal life, which left them nothing but time to worry. Immediately, Toby quit her job as a teacher to dedicate all her time to helping Michael and volunteering at his school, the Promises Program at Upstate Cerebral Palsy, a specialized program for children with Autism that uses Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy; along with 7 hours of school, Toby worked with Michael for 3 hours a day at home, and all her hard work was paid off when Michael spoke his first word (Mama) after almost 3 years. “A lot is to be said for early, intense, and extensive intervention,” says Toby today, and a lot would agree with her, considering Michael is now a 6th grader, in normal elementary school, excelling in his classes, and preparing to move up to middle school with his class this coming June. Current controversy in the Autism and families of children with Autism community is whether a cure is to be found, or simply just acceptance for its victims. Toby would probably be described as neutral in this conflict, “I want a cure, but I would never want to change Michael, I can’t imagine him being any different.” It’s not imaginable that anyone would want to change this intelligent, caring, and funny 12-year-old, and there’s no doubt that he has an extremely bright future ahead of him. So, although being diagnosed with autism is in no way a death sentence, it presents many challenges for its victims and their families. Many autistic children aren’t as lucky as Michael and will never live a normal life, which is exactly why more awareness, acceptance, and research of the disorder in pursuits of finding a cure needs to happen.

Second Hydrofracking Meeting in Little Falls, NY

Michaela Monohan
4/18/12

                On February 21, the second of three public information sessions were held at the Senior Community Center, located at 524 East Main Street in the city of Little Falls, to discuss the positive aspects of hydrofracking.  Hydrofracking is the technological method of drilling horizontally, deep into the earth’s surface, to extract water or natural gas.   Bruce Przybyl, principal geologist for the New York State Unconventional Gas Service and a project manager for URS CorporaBruce Przybyl, a geologist, for the New York State Unconventional Gas Service and Project Manger of URS Corporation, led the session on Tuesday night.

In order to drill, you need Marcellus shale and Utica shale to properly extract natural gases.  According to Przybyl, the Marcellus shale seems to be absent in this area, but there is still a possibility to hyrdrofrack. According to Przybyl, there are many benefits to drill.

            “Many can benefit from allowing hydrofracking, such as the gas companies, truckers, agricultural communities, farmers, engineers, hotels, restaurants, property owners, and municipalities.  If hydrofracking comes to the city of Little Falls, then gas prices will be lowered, electricity will go down and taxes will be lowered,” stated Przybyl.

            When hydrofracking, there is a release of harmful radiation. Questions arose in concern of this, which Przybyl addressed.  “Low levels of radiation is a natural occurring thing.  We will find out the level of radiation and how it is dispersed.”

            Water contamination is also a huge concern amongst the residents of Little Falls, who voiced their worries at this meeting.  Przybyl was quick to respond. “If there is a problem, the problem will be fixed.”

            Throughout the presentation, individual’s kept referring to the terrible and tragic events, which unfolded in Pennsylvania when hydrofracking disrupted their environment, killed a number of species and contaminated large amounts of drinking water.  Przybyl reassured, “We have learned from past mistakes, we will monitor spills and preventive plans will be put into place and practiced.”

            On February 27, the last meeting will take place at

Little Falls City Hall, to discuss the moratorium. No

questions are allowed, only statements from the public can

 be given.  

Hold on to that!

The crystal football trophy that Alabama received for beating L.S.U. in the B.C.S. championship game in January was shattered when it was knocked off a display table by one of the player’s fathers.

Jeff Purinton, a member of the Athletic Department said the trophy, valued at $30,000, was on display in the Athletic Facility as part of the festivities for the Crimson Tide’s spring football game Saturday in Tuscaloosa, Ala. He says the man accidently tripped on a rug that was under the trophy display and knocked it over.

Purinton said the school is working with the American Football Coaches Association, on getting a replacement for the broken one.

Florida‘s 2006 trophy was destroyed when it was accidentally knocked off a pedestal by a recruit in 2008. In 2004, Florida State had two trophies stolen.

Unfortunately, accidents do happen. And after this happened all schools (including Bama') will be way more careful handling their winning trophy's.

Alabama's Trent Richardson holding up the $30,000 National Championship Trophy.

Flyers in control of first round

Three games into the series, The Flyers are up 3-0 over the Penguins. One of the top teams in the NHL has been playing bad but the Philadelphia Flyers don’t mind. They’re rather pleased with the opposing team’s performance and maybe even a little surprised, that they are not playing like they would in past playoff seasons.

The Flyers lead the first-round playoff series, three games to none, and can eliminate the Penguins with a victory Wednesday in Game 4. Pittsburgh has allowed 20 goals in three games. The so called “elite defense” has been playing terrible along with Pittsburgh’s special teams.

But that begins to explain why the Flyers have gained such fire or spark to their play. Before the series, the Flyers have been playing almost below average hockey. The team had discussed the value of playing hard, but clean. They would play this way from first whistle to final whistle. They have done so. And clearly Pittsburgh has not.

The N.H.L. suspended a number of players in this heated series. This 3-game series has been full of fights. Craig Adams was one of the suspended player’s one game for instigating a fight late in the 3^rd period.

Their behavior has been uncharacteristic for the Flyers. They had led the N.H.L. during the regular season with an average of 16.1 penalty minutes a game. They were in third place with fighting majors, having 57.

All in all the Flyers have been playing better hockey and if the Penguins want to stay alive they have to come out with discipline and heart tonight in game four.

Section Ones Biggest Star Finally Chooses School

Section 1 Recruiting writer Joe Lopopolo recently spoke with his former New Rochelle teammate Jordan Lucas about Lucas’s decision to play football at Penn State University in 2012. Lucas, a 6-foot, 176-pound safety, played this past fall at Worcester Academy, a prep school in Massachusetts, after graduating from New Rochelle High School in 2011. Lucas came a long way and improved a lot during his semester at Worcester. The Nittany Lions contacted Lucas last week and told him that they would possibly offer a scholarship. Lucas waited, even though it meant putting his guaranteed scholarship at Temple University in jeopardy. It turned out to be well worth the wait.
Here’s Lopopolo’s Q&A with Lucas on his decision to attend Penn State.

Lopopolo: How does it feel to finally commit, especially to a BCS school?

Lucas: It’s a great feeling, I mean the recruiting process was very stressful like always, if it’s out of prep school or out of high school. Penn State University has great tradition and I take it as a challenge with what they´re going through. They want to build on the tradition that they have and keep things going in the right direction. I´m happy to be a part of it. But now that it’s almost done I’m glad I picked the right school and I cannot wait until signing day so I can just relax.

Lopopolo: What other schools were you considering?

Lucas: Akron, UMass, Old Dominion and Villanova.

Lopopolo: What were the main factors in your decision?

Lucas: I chose PSU mainly because of the opportunity I have once I get there. I have a chance to get playing time right away as a freshman at safety and on special teams, so I’m making sure I take full advantage. Coach O’Brien made it seem like a great place, playing in front of 107,000 great fans every game and the academics PSU had to offer. I got a good taste of all that when I went on my unofficial visit and I loved the campus and environment.

Lopopolo: What are your strengths as a player and what style do you think you play?

Lucas: My strength would probably be my awareness. Knowing where everyone is on the field and knowing what to do in whatever situation I’m put in. I also really like to prepare myself during practice week on and off the field. I love to watch lots of film so you know what your opponent brings to the table. In terms of my style of play, I think I bring lots of speed and smarts to the game, but at the same time physicalness. I love to hit and tackle the football.”

Lopopolo: What were your thoughts on your season at Worcester Academy?

Lucas: It was definitely a great experience. I got to do a lot of things I’ve never done before. I played a lot of special teams and got to return kicks and punts all season. On the offensive side of the ball I played receiver and even wildcat quarterback. On defense I played cornerback and safety. It was a lot of fun. Coach let me be an athlete and do what I do best.

Lopopolo: Has Worcester Academy improved your skills in terms of football and/or academics?

Lucas: Oh yes, of course. This school has done a lot for me so far, especially academically. But I mainly came for school to improve my grades. I thought the transition from high school to college was going to be hard, but I adapted quick and it shows with the 3.6 GPA I earned this semester. I definitely feel like Worcester Academy is preparing me for the future.

Lopopolo: What was your number one highlight, whether it was at Worcester Academy, New Rochelle HS or even Pop Warner?

Lucas: I think my number one highlight would have to be senior year at New Rochelle against White Plains. It was a very important game, let alone it was a huge rivalry. I kind of took it personal that I hadn’t scored against them since my sophomore year, so I told myself I had to this game. I scored a 53-yard run, breaking six tackles and the play actually gave us the lead. The funny thing is that the play actually helped me get recruited. It was an offensive play but it showed how much of an athlete I was, so I would have to go with that as my biggest highlight.

Herkimer Lacrosse

Herkimer County Community College has announced the appointment of James Ireland, of Norwalk CT, as head men’s lacrosse coach for the spring 2012 season. Ireland is an HCCC graduate with the Class of 2004, and was a member of the Herkimer Generals 2003 national championship lacrosse team and was a two-time first team All American and 2004 NJCAA Player of the Year. He served as assistant varsity and junior varsity lacrosse coach at Newtown High School in Newtown, CT. A private lacrosse instructor, Ireland works with athletes of all ages. Jamie has tremendous love for the sport and for Herkimer.

If you have been following any type of lacrosse in the past 20 years you probably at some point heard of the program at Herkimer County Community College. And recently you have probably heard about how the program is in a slight downfall. If you are not familiar with the program you might want to read the history of Herk Lacrosse, the rise of the program to dominance, and their recent fall in the world of lacrosse.

For decades Herkimer was THE school for Junior College lacrosse. So what happened to this once top program? The basic history is that Herk had a team for decades and that they were the primetime JuCo of upstate NY until OCC (Onondaga Community College) took over the title.

Herk won their last JuCo title in 2005. Paul Wehrum was the coach at the time (he is now at Union College – NCAA DIII), and he heavily recruited some of the best players, and helped them move on to 4 year colleges after finishing their time in JuCo. He was like a father figure for the kids and helped them with great success.

After Wehrum left for Union College (NCAA DIII) in 2004, Scott Barnard, who also won a NJCAA championship at Herk, took over.  He is now the head coach at Hamilton.

After Barnard left in 2008, Rich Dommer, also a Herk Lacrosse Alum, took over for a couple of years.

The great coaches kept coming and we also can’t forget that Herkimer also had campus adjacent housing, which is something that almost no other JuCo in the country had. The players basically lived in a two story condo with no RAs. But by the time Dommer had taken over, Onondaga Community College had started a team and had on campus housing and were coached by former Herk Lacrosse players.Things changed fast.

With Wehrum as coach, Herk always had a strong advantage on bringing in Native American players. But he couldn’t stay with the program forever, and Native American players could now go to a school which was also closer to a Reservation (OCC) and was making a real investment in the sport of lacrosse. The native americans are the creators of lacrosse and are key to this game.

So can Herkimer ever get back to the levels of success they once enjoyed? For a program that won 9 JuCo National Championships between 1988 and 2005, it would almost be too sad to imagine that they cannot step up to the plate. If anyone can turn this program around, it would be Coach Ireland.



“I would just like to personally thank each and every one of you for your support through out these past few weeks. You have all been so great! Our love for Herkimer and the game of lacrosse is now stronger than ever. As we all know, this is a very special place for us and this has only proven that more. I encourage all to come to as many games/practices as possible. A more formal letter will be sent out very soon. Thanks again for everything, I hope to see you all soon.” - Coach Ireland

“Jamie is a remarkable young man. I have been impressed by his desire to improve his own lacrosse abilities and remain a student of the game. He is enthusiastic and loves new challenges. He is determined to build back the program that we all love at Herkimer.” - Paul Wehrum

“I am excited and optimistic that Jamie will quickly provide direction and commitment to our current lacrosse student-athletes. Jamie’s playing and coaching experience makes him an excellent selection for Herkimer Lacrosse. As an alum and a member of the Herkimer “Lacrosse Family,” Jamie knows the importance of commitment, excellence and opportunity that all of our Lacrosse Alumni have experienced at Herkimer.” - Athletic Director Donald Dutcher.
New Head Coach: Jamie Ireland