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(05/01/18 6:32am)
By Eric Preisler
Staff Writer
The 2018-2019 base budgets for the College Union Board, Student Government and Sports Club Council were voted on at the Student Finance Board meeting on April 25.
SFB partially funded CUB, which requested $825,117 for its base budget.
However, SG tabled CUB’s requests, wanting further detail and justification about various costs. These costs would cover events such as bus trips, Nooners, Silent Disco, Late Nighters, Funival and fall and spring comedy shows, lectures and concerts.
SFB partially funded SG’s base budget while tabling the national membership fee and T-shirt swaps. SG’s funds would cover costs for publicity, office supplies, insurance for Spirit Week, a volleyball tournament, field games, rally towels, the Blue and Gold ceremony, the SG retreat, the upcoming Epcot-inspired cultural expo and legal fees. SG later voted to table its budget.
SFB voted to make revisions on their expanded base budgeting agreements with both CUB and SG. It was voted that memos, which are used to move allocated funds to cover different costs within an event, must be approved by SFB even for allocation below 40 percent of budgeted lines.
These votes were made after CUB wanted notes to be only submitted, instead of signed, for allocations below 40 percent of budgeted lines.
SFB believes these changes in the expanded base budgeting agreements will make it easier to keep track of various allocations an organization wishes to change.
SFB fully funded the Sports Club Advisory Council $125,000 to cover expenses for 22 club sports, soon to be 23 with the addition of men’s club basketball.
A four-person student committee from the Sport Club Advisory Council decided how much to request based on its budget proposal.
“The decisions were made based on what was thought essential for the ability of the clubs to function on a day to day basis,” the proposal stated.
This budget will help to cover the sports clubs’ total expenses, which total $365,229.31 for the 2018-2019 academic year.
The Intramural Sports Club was also fully funded $44,057 for its operating budget. The operating budget is intended to cover the costs of paying student employees and purchase equipment.
The majority of the costs cover the payroll for TCNJ EMS and officials who oversee intramural games. Other costs cover National Intramural Association membership fees, Grit ‘N Wit fees, golf league fees and equipment fees.
(04/24/18 6:20am)
By Eric Preisler
Staff Writer
Five events were funded at this week’s Student Finance Board meeting on April 18.
The i-Tunes A Cappella group was fully funded for its annual spring concert, which will be held on May 6 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Mayo Concert Hall.
SFB funded i-Tunes $433 for the costs of student technicians, the student house manager, a student usher and supplies.
This concert will benefit the College because it will provide attendees with a diverse repertoire of cultural music, the proposal explained.
As a celebration of the i-Tunes’ anniversary, alumni of i-Tunes will also be joining the current members in performing a joint song, according to Mallory Ilves, the treasurer of i-Tunes and a junior special education and women’s, gender, and sexuality studies double major.
“This is i-Tunes’ 10th year, so we’re doing a 10th anniversary concert,” Ilves said.
The Omicron Epsilon Chapter of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority was fully funded for its event, Finer Fitness: Trap AerobicZ Edition, which will be held on May 2 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the Travers/Wolfe Fitness Center.
SFB fully funded The Omicron Epsilon Chapter of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority for the cost of a personal trainer to lead the event.
“We found a fitness trainer that uses stepping stools and other gym equipment in order to incorporate an upbeat dance routine that’s very cardio based,” said Meme Cisse, a senior sociology and African American studies double major and member of Zeta Phi Beta.
This event will also offer a cultural component that students may not normally be exposed to at the College, Cisse explained.
“We wanted to incorporate a cultural aspect to it and a lot of the music that they use are from Caribbean islands or from African countries,” Cisse said. “We really wanted to offer that not only health and wellness perspective but also the cultural learning component to it.”
Chabad was fully funded for its event, Lag Ba’omer Israel Celebration, which will be held on May 2 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Alumni Grove.
SFB funded Chabad $1,085 for the costs of traditional Israeli cuisine, paper plates and utensils.
Lag Ba’omer is a festive Jewish holiday that is celebrated with joyous events, such as outings, bonfires, outdoor games and parades, the proposal explained.
SFB also partially funded Student Government’s event, “Connect the Dots” Epcot, which will be held on Tuesday, May 1 inside and outside of the Brower Student Center, as well as on Green Lawn.
SFB provided $1,636.12 to cover the costs of decorations, a caricature artist, VIVA dance studio, a DJ and photo booth. The cost for a waffle food truck was zero funded due to the high cost of food already allocated for this event.
This is the first year the Epcot event is being labeled with a theme of “Connecting the Dots,” the proposal explained.
“Our theme of Connecting the Dots will emphasize cultural consciousness and highlight the dynamics and intricacies of culture that often go unnoticed,” the proposal stated.
TCNJ Swing Dance Club was fully funded $1,698.41 for its event, “Lindy Hop, Time Hop,” which will be held on Saturday, April 28 from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the Allen Hall Main Lounge.
SFB provided TCNJ Swing Dance Club with $1,698.41 for the costs of a band, a sound technician, a plastic table cover and twisted fringe garlands.
The purpose of this event is to provide an opportunity for students to get involved in swing dancing while still providing a fun and inviting atmosphere for non-dancers, according to the proposal.
“It’s just an event to invite everyone to enjoy swing music and to celebrate the end of two semesters of lessons,” said Shannon Stewart, the president of TCNJ Swing Dance Club and a senior elementary education and iSTEM double major.
(04/17/18 4:08am)
By Eric Preisler
Staff Writer
Six events were funded at this week’s Student Finance Board meeting on April 11.
The Outdoors Club was fully funded for its Harriman State Park overnight trip, which will take place from 8 a.m. on April 28 to 2 p.m. on April 29.
SFB provided $460.16 to cover the costs of food and reimbursement for gas.
This trip will allow students to participate in a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, running and camping, the proposal stated.
SFB fully funded the spring edition of the Lion’s Eye literary magazine, which will be printed and distributed throughout campus at the beginning of May, according to Kelly Vena, a junior English major and treasurer of the Lion’s Eye.
The Lion’s Eye received $2,000 to cover the cost to print about 350 copies of the literary magazine.
The biannual production of the Lion’s Eye allows students of any major at the College to submit poetry, short stories and photography, the proposal explained.
“It promotes and showcases the student talent,” Vena said. “Students from all different types of majors and different academic schools can submit (work) or even join the club.”
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority was fully funded for its Healthy Cookout, which will be held on April 28 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Quimby’s Prairie.
SFB funded Delta Sigma Theta $307.84 to cover the costs of food, supplies and decorations.
This event is intended to educate students about preventing certain health conditions by eating healthy foods. There will also be a dietician at the event who will speak about maintaining a balanced diet, the proposal stated.
“The Healthy Cookout is pretty much about promoting a healthy lifestyle, a healthy diet to the TCNJ community,” said Kashana Ricketts, a senior urban elementary education and history double major and president of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.
The Society of Creative Endeavors was fully funded for its bus trip to the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on April 29. Non-students can attend, but they will be charged a fee of $10.
SFB funded The Society of Creative Endeavors $3,280.20 for the cost of two buses.
This bus trip will take students to Sakura Matsuri, the annual cherry blossom festival at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, according to Emily Zbyszynski, president of The Society of Creative Endeavors and a junior English major.
“It’s a Japanese culture festival,” Zbyszynski said. “There’s food, historic presentations, vendors and most importantly the cherry blossom trees themselves.”
The Chinese Student Association was fully funded for its event, Lanterns on the Lake, which will take place on April 30 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Biology Building Lounge and Ceva Lake.
SFB provided CSA $380.06 for the costs of food, lights, acrylic paint, calligraphy brushes and other supplies.
Students will be given the opportunity to create a lantern, which they will decorate with calligraphy. Students’ lanterns will then be illuminated with candles and set afloat on the lake after sunset, the proposal stated.
This practice has various meanings within Chinese culture, said Hubert Hsu, a senior nursing major and vice president of CSA.
“It is a welcomer of spring,” Hsu said. “It has roots in Buddhist religion (and Buddha’s) ability to bring light to darkness.”
SFB fully funded the Italian Club for its event, “Viaggio d’Italia: A Trip Around Italy,” which will be held in the Brower Student Center Room 100 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on May 5.
The Italian Club was fully funded $1,858.57 for the costs of food, utensils, artificial rose decorations, blow-up swords and gift cards.
There will be activity stations dedicated to various Italian regions and cities, such as Milan, Naples, Rome and Sicily, according to the proposal.
(04/10/18 4:46am)
By Eric Preisler
Staff Writer
After being partially funded and tabled for two expenses last week, TCNJ Hellenic Society was fully funded for Greek Fest, which will be held on April 18 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Decker Social Space.
SFB provided $1,025 to cover the costs of a photobooth and a Cretan dance group.
The purpose of this event is to celebrate Greek culture at the College by providing Greek festivities such music, dancing and food, according to the proposal.
The board fully funded its own organization for its annual SFB Base Budgeting Retreat, which will be held on April 22 from 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the College.
SFB provided itself $244.80 for the costs of food, snacks and water.
The purpose of this retreat is to allow members of SFB to review the base budget for every recognized student organization at the College, according to the proposal.
During the retreat, SFB allocates SAF funds for events that occur before October 15, recurring events and other necessities such as office supplies.
“The entire Student Finance Board and the Student Finance Board director get together to review and approve base budgets,” said Lauren Bsales, the administrative director of SFB and a junior deaf education and iSTEM double major.
Food is important, since this obligatory event will occur throughout the day, SFB explained.
“This is a day-long event because there are so many clubs and organizations at TCNJ,” Bsales said. “We don’t want our students to have to leave the base budgeting retreat (for food).”
The Freshman Class Council was fully funded for its Beach Day event, which will be on April 28 from 10 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. in Asbury Park, New Jersey.
SFB provided $1,860 for the costs of buses, water and coolers.
The Beach Day event would create a fun environment for the Class of 2021 to socialize and relax, according to the event’s proposal.
“It’s basically a fun day for freshmen before finals,” said Suchir Govindarajan, a freshman finance major and president of the Freshman Class Council.
The Muslim Students’ Association was fully funded for its event, Islamic Calligraphy Night, which will be held on April 20 from 5:45 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Brower Student Center Room 104.
Funding was provided for the costs of guest artist Faraz Khan, and art supplies.
At this event, Khan will present about Islamic calligraphy and art, showcase his work and then lead a workshop in which participants will learn how to write Arabic calligraphy. As part of Islamic Awareness Month, this event will help raise awareness about Islamic culture and art, according to the event’s proposal.
(04/03/18 7:45am)
By Eric Preisler
Staff Writer
Five events were funded and two events were zero funded at this week’s Student Finance Board Meeting on March 28.
After being tabled at last week’s SFB meeting, the Iota Beta chapter of the Delta Sigma Sorority was fully funded for its Delta Lessons event, which will be held on Tuesday, April 10 from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the Business Building Room 122.
Funding was provided to cover the cost of the guest speaker.
This presentation is intended as an engaging way to inform students about career development, according to Gayle Mayani, a junior international studies and marketing double major and treasurer of Delta Sigma Theta.
“This presentation is scenario-based, so it makes (students) more actively involved,” Mayani said.
Delta Sigma Theta was also fully funded for its yard show event, which will be held on April 21 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in Alumni Grove. The rain date is scheduled for April 27 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
SFB provided $796.24 to cover the costs of Campus Police, a DJ and an electrician.
This event would expose the college community to the National Pan-Hellenic Council, also known as Divine Nine organizations, which consists of nine historically black Greek organizations, according to the event’s proposal.
After being tabled last week, PRISM was fully funded for its event, Big Gay Nooner, which will be held on April 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Green Lawn.
This event, which is co-sponsored by the College Union Board, the Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies department and the Resident Hall Association, was funded $3,338 for the costs of T-shirts, tie dye, face painting supplies, snow cone machines, cotton candy machines, temporary tattoos and supplies for a rainbow balloon arch.
The purpose of this event is to create an environment that can bridge communities together while celebrating the diversity of gender and sexuality, the proposal stated.
Women in Learning and Leadership was fully funded for its event, Take Back the Night, which will be held on April 18 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the Business Building Basement.
The funding for this event will cover the costs of keynote speaker Katie Koestner, and a portion of her travel expenses.
“Take Back the Night is both a support an educational event that we do every year,” said Elizabeth Nemec, a freshman biology major and co-chair of WILL’s program committee.
At this event, Koestner will share her story with sexual assault and talk about her experience as an activist, and attendees will be given the opportunity to share their experiences with violence and sexual assault.
TCNJ Hellenic Society was partially funded for its event, Greek Fest, which will be held on April 18 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Decker Social Space.
SFB provided $2,305.41 to cover the costs of food supplies and balloons. However, the costs of a photo booth and a dance group were tabled.
“It’s basically just an opportunity for the campus to experience some Greek culture,” said Irene Kontogiannis, a senior biology major and president of TCNJ Hellenic Society.
The purpose of this event is to celebrate Greek culture with the college community by showcasing Greek food, music and dance, the proposal explained.
The Italian club was zero funded for its event, La Bella Notte, which would be held on May 5 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Brower Student Center Room 100.
La Bella Notte was zero funded because the Italian club advertised for the event on Lionsgate before being funded, SFB explained.
The event would mimic a traditional Italian festival by providing authentic Italian dishes, games and trivia, according to its proposal.
The American Medical Student Association was zero funded for its event, The Hippocrates Luncheon, which would be held on April 15 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Brower Student Center Room 100.
The Hippocrates Luncheon was zero funded because AMSA also advertised for the event before it received funding, SFB explained.
This annual event would bring in physicians and other health care professionals who are alumni of the College to inform students about potential careers in health care.
(03/27/18 4:40am)
By Eric Preisler
Staff Writer
Seven events were funded and two events were tabled at this week’s Student Finance Board meeting held over a conference call on March 21.
Iota, Iota, Iota, The Association of Students for Africa, PRISM, Lambda Theta Phi, Latin Fraternity Incorporated and the Union Latina Student Organization were fully funded to have Andrea Ritchie speak at the College on April 19 at 6 p.m. in the Education Building Room 212.
Ritchie is an African-American immigrant, attorney and activist who will be speaking about topics in her new book, “Invisible No More,” which delves into racial profiling, police brutality and immigration enforcement against women of color, according to the event’s proposal.
“Her experience as a lawyer, her work as an activist and advocate for impoverished women who are victims of state violence and her personal history as a survivor of violence uniquely positions her to educate TCNJ students,” the proposal stated.
The Black Student Union was fully funded $3,363.70 for its Around the World Fashion Show, which will be held on April 14 from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the Brower Student Center Room 100.
Funding for the event includes the costs for a designer, a DJ, a Snapchat filter, lighting, pipes and drapes.
Three separate clubs are contributing clothes for the fashion show. Union Latina is contributing clothes for a Havana, Cuba scene. The Association of Students for Africa is contributing clothes for a Lagos, Nigeria scene and the Indian Students Association is donating clothes for a Mumbai, India scene.
The purpose of this event is to showcase the diversity of multicultural organizations on campus.
This fashion show benefits the campus community by providing a way for multicultural organizations to celebrate their diversity, which is one of the College’s core beliefs, according to the proposal.
Union Latina was partially funded for its Copa event, which will be held on April 21 in the Decker Social Space.
The organization was funded $2,544 for the costs of food, decorations, a DJ and a photobooth, but funding for professional dancers was tabled.
According to the proposal, Copa is an annual Carnival-themed event that combines Latin American cultural influences to create an evening for students to enjoy.
“Copa is an annual event that combines Latin American cultures into one unique and fun evening filled with performances, Latin food and music,” said Erica Bello, a freshman Spanish and psychology double major and Union Latina’s Latino Awareness Chair. “This year’s Carnival theme allows Union Latina to embrace different Carnival traditions into one evening.”
The Mixed Signals were fully funded $4,100 for its event, Rock, which will be held on April 14 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. in Mayo Concert Hall.
This event will consist of an improvisation performance featuring four trained actors and comedians, as well as an improv workshop, the proposal stated.
The Iota Beta chapter of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority was tabled for its event, Delta Lessons, which would be held on April 10 from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the Business Building Room 122.
The event would consist of a professional and life development skills workshop, the proposal stated.
SFB requested more information about the workshop before deciding on its funding.
Chi Upsilon Sigma was fully funded for its event, Paint your Stress Away with a Twist, which will be held on April 19 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the Education Building Room 115.
The organization was funded $2,130 to cover the costs of painting materials, cups and mixed fruit.
A visual artist, Louie Blaka, will teach attendees how to de-stress through painting at this event, the proposal stated.
Chi Upsilon Sigma will also educate the campus community about the benefits of juicing and healthy eating by allowing guests in the audience to create their own smoothies using fruits and vegetables.
The Omicron Epsilon Chapter of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority was tabled for its event, The Empowerment Summit: Revitalizing Your Why, which would be held on April 7 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Brower Student Center.
The purpose of this event is to empower faculty, staff and students by starting from within, the proposal stated.
“We want to offer the campus an experience where they can attend to learn about how they lead, but also why they lead the way they do because of who they are,” the proposal explained.
SFB tabled this event because of high costs and also recommended for Zeta Phi Beta to consider different speakers.
Prism was fully funded $1,000 for its event, Authoring Our Stories, which will be held on Tuesday, April 10 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Education Building Room 204.
This workshop will help participants examine the ways in which events and people shape life experiences, according to the proposal.
Prism’s event, Big Gay Nooner, which would be held on April 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Green Lawn, was tabled.
This event would promote the celebration of gender and sexual diversity while allowing students to de-stress by providing crafts and snacks, the proposal explained.
SFB tabled this event to get more information about the Nooner, as well as to understand how giveaways of T-shirts and food would promote the mission of the event.
Medicine, Education and Development for Low Income Families Everywhere was fully funded $3,191.18 for its event, A Taste of South America, which will be held on April 10 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the Brower Student Center Room 225.
Funding will cover the costs of food, utensils, table cloths, balloons, streamers and flyers.
MEDLIFE will be providing traditional South American food with an emphasis on Peruvian culture, according to the proposal.
(03/06/18 7:33am)
By Eric Preisler
Staff Writer
Six events were funded at this week’s Student Finance Board Meeting on Feb. 28. Additionally, Lauren Bsales, the current administrative director of SFB and a junior deaf education and iSTEM double major, was elected as next year’s executive director of SFB.
TCNJ Musical Theater was fully funded $1,200 for a fight choreographer to help with scenes in its production of “Spring Awakening,” which will be performed from March 28 to March 31 in the Kendall Main Stage Theater.
The fight choreographer will help with violent and intimate scenes that require precise rehearsal.
“This would be teaching violent scenes safely,” said Cat Jannis, TMT’s president and a senior psychology and women’s, gender and sexuality studies double major. “My biggest concern is the violence … because I don’t want anyone getting hurt.”
The choreographer will also help students act out and feel comfortable with the production’s intimacy scenes.
“It’s to making sure it’s flowing well, to make sure that it doesn’t look stupid and also to make sure that everyone is comfortable,” Jannis said. “We also want to make sure we’re presenting it to an audience well because we want to be respectful to the audience.”
The Sophomore Class Council was partially funded $4,135 to provide five buses for its bus trip to Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia on April 7 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., which would allow for up to 190 sophomores to attend a Phillies baseball game.
“The purpose of this activity is to bring sophomores together in a unique setting that most sophomores might not get to experience on a usual basis,” said Justin Lewbel, sophomore class president and a history and secondary education dual major. “Some benefits of this activity will be to socialize with friends and experience a sporting event in a relaxed setting but also a professional setting.”
Synergy Dance Company was fully funded $3,685 for its Synergy Spring Spectacular dance recital, which will be held on April 14 in the Kendall Hall Main Stage Theater.
Funding will cover the costs of Kendall Hall fees, costumes and decorations.
The purpose of this annual dance recital is for members to showcase the work they have been doing for the past year, according to the proposal.
“We work on our dance technique during the fall semester, then dedicate the spring semester to creating and perfecting this recital, which is 100 percent student choreographed,” the proposal stated.
All College Theatre was fully funded for its event, “An Evening of One-Act Shorts,” which will be held on April 21 and April 22 in the Don Evans Black Box Theater.
ACT was funded $2,100 to cover the cost of props, costumes, set pieces, scripts and royalties.
This event usually showcases three to five short performances, which are either student-written or professionally written, according to the proposal.
“They are all student directed, all student pro-staffed and all student acted,” said Molly Knapp, a junior public health and women’s, gender and sexuality studies double major and ACT’s treasurer and production manager. “This is one of our larger events in terms of student involvement.”
The Association of Students for Africa was partially funded $5,359.96 for its Akwaaba event, which will be held on April 20 from 7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the Brower Student Center Room 100.
Full funding was provided for the costs of food, decoration, drinks and utensils. Partial funding was provided for ASFA to select two of the three proposed entertainment aspects of the event, which include the Universal African Dance and Drum Ensemble, a host and a DJ.
Akwaaba is an annual banquet that celebrates and showcases African culture through performances, food, attire and music, according to the proposal.
“The meaning of Akwaaba is to welcome everybody to enjoy the African culture,” said Oreoluwa Nubi, president of ASFA and a senior public health major.
The Japanese Student Association was funded for its TCNJ Night Market event, which will be held on March 23 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Green Lawn.
JSA was fully funded $3,899 for tents, a fortune teller, digital signage, a banner and various food items, but JSA was tabled for the cost of a food truck. SFB requested further explanation for the food truck and how it adds to event’s mission.
TCNJ Night Market will celebrate the street markets of Asian nightlife and feature food from various countries such as China, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, the Philippines and Vietnam.
The Korean Student Association, Barkada, the Chinese Student Association, Asian-American Association, International and Domestic Student Organization, Alpha Phi Omega and Student Government will be co-sponsoring this event.
“TCNJ doesn’t have anything like this,” said Christine Papas, president of JSA and junior mathematics major. “Multicultural buffet is kind of similar but it only features food rather than activities and performances.”
There will also be a fortune teller, which reflects the current pop culture of various countries, said Elisa Liang, treasurer of JSA and a sophomore psychology major.
(02/27/18 7:58am)
By Eric Preisler
Staff Writer
Student Finance Board gave students a chance to experience European, Asian and Caribbean culture when it funded four cultural events at its weekly meeting on Feb. 21.
The French Club was fully funded $1,641.70 to cover transportation and parking fees for its annual NYC Excursion, which is set for April 7 from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The club will visit a French exhibit called “Public Parks, Private Gardens: From Paris at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.” Attendees will have the option to buy lunch at a nearby French restaurant, La Bonne Soupe.
The excursion is meant to involve students in activities aimed at increasing interest, knowledge and appreciation of French culture, according to the proposal packet.
“It’s a really fun trip, it’s a fun way to explore French culture,” said Allison Smith, president of the French Club and a junior chemistry major.
The Indian Student Association was fully funded $1,667.50 for its Bollywood Night event, which will be held on March 24 from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. in the Decker Social Space. Funding for this event covers the costs of decorations, food, utensils, plates, napkins, drinks and a DJ.
“We showcase various dance styles,” said Jasmine Mahajan, treasurer of ISA and a sophomore biology major. “We have all of the Indian dance teams perform at Bollywood night.”
A wide variety of Indian music will be played at the event to showcase the multifaceted culture of India, according to the proposal packet.
“The music played will range from traditional bhangra, Bollywood melodies and modern hip hop, showcasing what influences young Indian-Americans today,” the proposal stated.
The Asian American Association was fully funded $2,524.03 for its annual TCNJ Mystique of the East event, which will be held on April 15 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in Kendall Hall.
The funding will cover the costs of Kendall Hall fees, a banner and digital signage for advertising in the Brower Student Center.
Mystique of the East will include performances inspired by various Asian countries, such as China, Japan, South Korea and the Philippines, according to the proposal.
Barkada, the Chinese Student Association and the Korean Student Association will be cosponsoring Mystique of the East, according to the proposal.
The Haitian Student Association was partially funded $749 for its Ambiance event, which will be held on Saturday, March 3 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the Brower Student Center Room 225.
Funding will cover the costs of decorations, such as flowers, balloons and floor standups.
The purpose of Ambiance is to celebrate Haitian culture and educate the campus community, according to the proposal.
“Throughout the room and on the tables there will be facts displayed about the country and its culture,” the proposal stated. “As our theme this year is focusing on highlighting different cities in Haiti, we will show their culture and historical importance not only in Haiti but in the world itself.”
The Freshman Class Council was tabled for its karaoke night, which was proposed to be held on March 8 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the Traditions Lounge.
SFB suggested that the FCC should lower the event’s cost per student ratio by looking into other on-campus food options and locations to host the event.
(02/20/18 8:16am)
By Eric Preisler
Staff Writer
Chi Upsilon Sigma, Chabad and Hillel and the Black Student Union, were funded for their events at this week’s SFB meeting on Feb. 14.
The College’s chapter of CUS, a national Latin sorority, was fully funded $220.20 for its event “Be A Yogie,” which will be held on March 6 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Empower Yoga in Campus Town.
The funds provided will cover the costs of the Empower Yoga rental fee and supplies needed to make informational pamphlets for attendees.
At the hot yoga session, there will be a yoga instructor who will be able to work with both beginners and experienced “yogies,” according to the proposal packet.
“We’re doing yoga exercises and practicing different techniques,” said Dianelis Mendoza, treasurer of CUS and a junior nursing major. “We’ll also be providing education and providing services.”
Students who attend the session will be able to make pamphlets with nine different yoga positions and mantras, which will allow people to include their personalized goals, the proposal stated.
Chabad and Hillel were fully funded $700 for the costs of a caricature artist, jester and balloon man for its Purim event in the Education Building Room 212 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on March 1.
SFB funded these previously tabled expenses after costs were reduced from $1,000 and further justification of these costs were provided to board.
“The purpose of this event is to celebrate and educate the campus community about the Jewish holiday of Purim,” the proposal stated. “Often considered the most festive and joyous holiday on the calendar, it commemorates the miraculous survival of a persecuted people.”
The Black Student Union was partially funded for its “Black Excellence Ball,” which will be held Tuesday, Feb. 27 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. in Decker Hall.
SFB funded BSU $2,450.30 for the costs of decorations, drinks, serving tools, food, a serving wall and the band Soulful Sounds.
After the event was tabled at SFB’s Feb. 7 meeting, BSU provided further justification for the cost of Soulful Sounds.
The band’s performance was free in past years when its members, who are alumni, attended the College.
“We really like the way they sound. We connect with them well. We think it’s important to use the same people over and over again,” said Anisa Douglas, treasurer of BSU and a sophomore early childhood education and psychology double major. “Since they are a business now we think it’s important for them to be properly compensated for their time.”
The purpose of this event, which is held in honor of Black History Month, is to honor specific students, faculty and staff for their achievements that represent the community in a positive light, the proposal explained.
The Association of Students for Africa’s event, “Akwaaba,” which would be held in the Brower Student Center Room 100, was tabled due to increased costs from last year, according to SFB.
“The purpose of our club is to celebrate, promote and express the African culture to the TCNJ community,” said Oreoluwa Nubi, President of ASFA and senior public health major. “At this banquet, this is where we really show our African culture with performances, attire, clothing and food.”
Akwaaba exposes students to African culture and unite people of all cultures, the proposal stated.
The event will be representative of various African cultures and subcultures by serving both East and West African dishes, explained Ifeanyichukw Adibemma, treasurer of ASA and a sophomore health and exercise science major.
The proposed main performance would be the Universal African Dance and Drum Ensemble, which is musical group that consists of drummers, dancers and masquerade soloists.
(02/13/18 8:24am)
By Eric Preisler
Staff Writer
Six events were funded, one event was tabled and one event was denied funding at this week’s Student Finance Board Meeting on Feb. 7.
The i-Tunes a capella group was fully funded for its first annual “Blends with Benefits Invitation” on April 16, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Mayo Concert Hall.
$601 from SFB will cover costs for expendable supplies, student technicians, student ushers and the student house manager.
A capella groups from Ramapo College, Drew University and Villanova University were invited to perform alongside i-Tunes.
“This concert benefits the student body because they can attend the event and listen to a diverse repertoire from multiple groups,” the proposal stated. “It will attract students from on and off campus, giving them a chance to see something new and fresh from our acapella community.”
The College’s chapter of Chi Upsilon Sigma, a national Latin sorority, was partially funded for its event “Snuggle your Insomnia Away,” which will be held on Feb. 22 from 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the Social Sciences Building.
The club was partially funded $250 to cover the cost of fabric that will be used to make blankets.
The purpose of “Snuggle your Insomnia Away” is to provide the campus community with information about how to deal with insomnia and create better sleep habits, according to the proposal packet.
There will also be an interactive component in which students can make their own blankets.
“Through this program we provide an education of how much sleep is enough sleep, how to better regulate your sleep and how much time you should take for a nap,” said Dianelis Mendoza, a junior nursing major and treasurer of CUS.
This event matches up with the sorority’s core values, which are based on helping the campus community, explained Mendoza.
“Based off of our organization we have four awarenesses –– educational, political, cultural and social,” Mendoza said. “This program will target an educational and a social issue.”
CUS did not receive funding for its proposed event, “Red Affair.” Red Affair, to be advertised only as a social event, was meant to educate the campus community on rape culture, domestic violence and sexually transmitted infections by integrating music and dance sessions.
The proposal was not funded because of a lack of organization, conflicts with advertising and issues with the way in which the mission of the event would be carried out, SFB explained.
While SFB is not against the mission of the proposed event, some members expressed concerns about creating a party atmosphere at an event that is supposed to educate students about risk management.
TCNJ Chinese Students Association was fully funded for its annual Chinese New Year Celebration, which will be held on Feb. 24 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Brower Student Center Room 100.
SFB provided $3,433.74 to cover the costs of food, utensils and delivery fees.
Chinese New Year has great significance to the Chinese culture, members of CSA explained.
“Chinese New Year is one of the most important and major holidays in Chinese culture,” said Alice Li, a senior statistics major and treasurer of CSA. “It is a festival that celebrates the turn of the Chinese lunar calendar.
The Chinese New Year celebration is more traditional and authentic than other events hosted by CSA, according to Stephanie MacDougall, a sophomore international studies major and president of CSA.
This event will also provide educational components about Chinese culture. Between performances, attendees will be presented with a narrative intended to help students learn about the history of Chinese culture, according to the event’s proposal packet.
The College’s Black Student Union was fully funded for its event, “Melanin Expressions,” which will be held on Feb. 21 in Mayo Concert Hall from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., and was tabled for its “Black Excellence Ball,” which would be held on Feb. 27 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. in Decker Hall.
SFB contributed $613 for “Melanin Expressions” to cover the costs of Mayo Concert Hall fees. Originally called “Black Monologues,” the name of the event was changed to “Melanin Expressions” to allow for a wider range of self expression than just monologues.
“This is an event that allows faculty, students and staff a safe place to express themselves,” said Anisa Douglas, a sophomore early childhood education and psychology double major and treasure of BSU. “This really hits TCNJ’s core values of inclusiveness and self reflection.”
The Black Excellence Ball, which cost more than $1,000 last year, was tabled because SFB wanted further justification for the costs of the band and decorations requested by BSU.
Eurasia/Middle East Society was fully funded $4,275 for its event, “Nowruz,” a Persian New Year’s celebration, which will be held on March 22 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the Education Building Room 212.
Funding will cover costs of food from King Pita Palace, decorations, flowers, traditional Middle Eastern music and a sound technician.
“(The event) exposes our campus to a global celebration that many haven’t had experience with before, and it creates a community atmosphere for Middle Eastern students and for students interested in the Middle East,” according to the event’s proposal packet.
Best Buddies was fully funded $2,343.88 to have Lauren Potter, an actress with Down syndrome who starred on the TV show, “Glee,” visit the College as a guest speaker. The event is set to be held on March 7 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in Mayo Concert Hall, but Best Buddies are still awaiting confirmation on the appearance from Potter following the approval of funding.
Funding for this event will cover costs of Potter’s appearance, Mayo Concert Hall fees, security fees and refreshments for after the event.
This event is part of Best Buddies’ week-long “Spread the Word to End the Word” initiative, which aims to spread awareness about the detrimental effects of using of the word “retard,” according to the event’s proposal packet.
“During this week we spread awareness as to why using the word ‘retarded’ is derogative, offensive and exclusive to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Melissa Heintz, president of Best Buddies and a junior special education and women’s gender and sexuality studies double major.
Best Buddies hopes that by having Potter speak about this issue, people will be less likely to use offensive language in the future.
“We feel as though having Lauren Potter here will spread awareness in a more wide variety than just our club,” said Melanie Loth, a member of Best Buddies and junior mathematics and statistics double major. “Her presentation will help to create a more inclusive environment at TCNJ.”
(02/06/18 9:24am)
By Eric Preisler
Staff Writer
TCNJ Chess Club, TCNJ Musical Theater, College Union Board and Chabad were all funded for events, while Lamda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority’s event was tabled at this week’s Student Finance Board meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 31.
Lamda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority’s event, “The Latinx Experience in the Age of Trump and the Alt Right,” which would be held on Feb. 22 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Education Building Room 115, was tabled after SFB requested that the sorority provide more research about the speakers listed and that the organization look into inviting other speakers.
Dr. Rebecca Martinez from the University of Missouri and Dr. Romina Pacheco from Fairfield University were invited to speak about the Latinx experience following the election of President Donald Trump. Latinx is a gender-neutral term for the words Latino and Latina.
“They will be talking about their experiences but also their research in their fields of study, bringing in their publications about the Latino experiences on college campuses,” said Thelma Carrera, a senior philosophy and Spanish double major and president of Lambda Theta Alpha.
The board’s request was made to encourage the sorority to show more initiative in planning the event, and to prevent the College’s academic departments organizing the event and choosing the speakers, since funds are intended for student use rather than department use, SFB explained.
Most of the funding for the event would come from the African American Studies Department, Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies department and the Women in Learning and Leadership program.
TCNJ Chess Club was fully funded $414 to compete in the World Amateur East tournament, which will be held from Feb. 17 to Feb. 19 at the Hilton in Parsippany, New Jersey.
Funding will include the tournament entry fee, a hotel room and gas.
World Amateur East is one of the few chess tournaments in which players do not compete solo, according to Andy Chen, president of TCNJ Chess Club and a junior mathematics major.
“This is one of the few events where it is four on four and you have to work in a team environment,” Chen said. “This is a really unique opportunity for our members.”
TMT was fully funded $3,300 for lighting equipment for its annual musical, “Spring Awakening,” which will be performed from March 28 to March 31 in the Kendall Main Stage Theater.
Lighting plays a critical role in the production of this show, members of TMT explained.
“This production is a very lighting and tech-intensive show” said Thomas Hudson, a senior communication studies major and a lighting designer for TMT. “(We) want to be able to evoke the moods using lighting equipment to help the audience deal with the major issues that are discussed in the show.”
After being tabled last week, CUB was fully funded $25,000 to hold an outdoor concert at Funival, which will be held on May 4 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. in Lot 6.
The concert component of Funival will create a positive and stress-free environment for students, according to the event’s proposal packet.
“Adding a live music component to Funival will provide the event with an energetic and enjoyable atmosphere that will undoubtedly enhance the recreational experience of attending the College’s end-of-the-year legacy event,” the proposal stated.
CUB took SFB’s advice, as members cut expenses and allocated more money from different parts of Funival’s budget, reducing the requested amount by $2,900.
Chabad was partially funded $4,408.27 and tabled for other requested funds for its Purim event, which will be held on March 1 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. the Education Building Room 212.
Funding includes the costs of a Jewish freestyle rap artist, traditional Purim cuisine and other supplies.
“We are trying to incorporate all of the different aspects of the holiday,” said Erica Levin, a junior biology major and president of Chabad.
Costs for a caricature artist, jester and balloon artist were tabled.
SFB advised Chabad to give a more descriptive itinerary of its event and to provide more justification for the tabled items.
This event is intended to be celebratory and educational, according to the event’s proposal packet.
“Often considered the most festive and joyous holiday on the calendar, it commemorates the miraculous survival of a persecuted people,” the proposal stated.
The carnival theme, caricature artist, jester and balloon man will represent aspects of royalty and the beauty pageant present in the story of Purim. According to Levin, planning for this event is different from previous years.
“For our past Purim events we have done very similar things and we are trying to really branch out,” Levin said. “We are trying to incorporate the story of Purim to have a more educational side to it this year, so everything we are doing does have an aspect that relates to the story of Purim and the holiday itself.”
(01/30/18 5:45am)
By Eric Preisler
Staff Writer
At the first Student Finance Board meeting of the spring semester on Wednesday Jan. 24, All College Theatre was fully funded for its production of “Medea,” and the College Union Board’s request for the funding of an outdoor concert at Funival was tabled.
ACT received $8,625 to produce “Medea,” which will be held in the Don Evans Black Box Theater from Feb. 28 to March 3.
Costs will include carpentry materials, set materials, props, costumes, hair and makeup, programs, lighting, sound and stage management supplies.
ACT was previously funded for the rights and scripts of “Medea,” an ancient Greek tragedy, during winter break, according to Molly Knapp, a junior public health and women’s, gender and sexuality studies double major and ACT’s treasurer and production manager.
ACT’s performance was created to provide an opportunity for students to work with professional director Scott Glading, as well as to attract a wide audience, according to the event’s proposal packet.
The production “provides an educational experience for those involved in the entire process as well as an entertaining show for TCNJ’s campus and its surrounding community,” according to the proposal packet.
CUB’s request for $27,900 for an outdoor concert at Funival was tabled.
Funival has featured an outdoor concert almost annually since 2011. Previous shows include Fun., Cash Cash, Magic Man and Rob Stone.
Funding for the concert, which would be held in Lot 6 on May 4 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., would include the headliner and opener, stage production, an agency fee and hospitality costs.
CUB’s proposal stated that it intended to reallocate $4,500 of expenses saved from previous events, $3,100 from its “nooner” program and $1,400 from its transportation costs for the concert, but SFB explained that even with the allocations listed in CUB’s proposal, costs still exceeded those of last year’s concert.
CUB stated the financial benefits and conveniences of holding a concert at Funival. Some CUB members argued the importance of funding the event.
“Providing an event like this would give students a chance to see acts that they normally haven’t seen in a safe and controlled environment,” junior public health major Stephanie DiPietrantonio, event coordinator and chair of CUB, said.
Other CUB members said that the event doesn’t need as much funding as originally requested.
“We can put on the concert for much less than normal,” said John Calcerano, a senior finance major and director of CUB. “Things like porta potties, that would already be on the grounds for Funival, we can utilize for the concert.”
SFB advised CUB to make the cost of the concert closer to last year’s.
(12/05/17 2:14am)
By Eric Preisler
Production Manager
The Student Finance Board tabled the Haitian Student Association’s annual Ambiance event and fully funded the Lion’s Eye literary magazine at its weekly meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 29.
HSA’s annual Ambiance event is scheduled to occur in March in the Brower Student Center. There are plans to display information about Haitian culture throughout the room at the event.
HSA is preparing for its Ambiance event far in advance because the event attracts numerous students and alumni. Between 220 to 230 undergraduate students and 30 alumni are expected to attend, according to the event’s proposal packet.
“This is a big event for alumni and people that have graduated,” said Rosebernoude Chérilus, the president of HSA and a senior sociology major.
Additional funding for the event would cover a musical performance, Haitian food, a Haitian comedian, decorations, a DJ and other expenses.
SFB tabled HSA’s event because the expenses for their initial request were too high. The organization advised HSA to implement a method of crowd control to prevent students from entering solely for food, and to choose between a DJ or musical performance. The club was also asked to lower the costs of food, entertainment and decorations.
While SFB held off on funding HSA, it funded the College’s literary magazine, Lion’s Eye, to print its fall 2017 issue.
Lion’s Eye was fully funded $2,000 to print 375 copies of the magazine, although the number of copies is subject to change. The club is aiming to complete and print the magazine by Wednesday, Dec. 6.
Lion’s Eye exclusively accepts student work, which can include poetry, prose, short stories or photography, according to Kelly Vena, the Lion’s Eye treasurer and a junior English major.
“Students from all disciplines and academic schools are welcomed and encouraged to submit work,” Vena said.
The purpose of Lion’s Eye is to showcase student talent and creativity as well as to promote love for literature on campus, according to the event’s proposal packet.
(11/28/17 2:41am)
By Eric Preisler
Production Manager
The Student Finance Board funded all kinds of speakers at its weekly meeting on Nov. 15.
The Class of 2021’s event, Night on the Winter Town, was fully funded after being tabled at last week’s meeting. The event will be held at Freddie’s Tavern, a local restaurant and catering hall, on Dec. 2 from 8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
SFB provided $3,036 to cover the cost for security, Freddie’s Tavern venue and service fees and busses. The costs proposed last week were reduced after deciding to use a playlist and speakers instead of paying for a DJ.
A wide range of food, non-alcoholic beverages, entertainment and music will be provided at the event, which is intended to promote class unity and to allow different types of people to interact in an environment outside of school, according to the event’s proposal packet.
SFB fully funded Women in Learning and Leadership $7,823 to have keynote speaker Vandana Shiva speak to students for Women’s History Month at its weekly meeting on Nov. 15.
The event, which was tabled at SFB’s Nov. 1 meeting, will be capped at 310 people and will be held on April 12 at 5 p.m. in Mayo Concert Hall.
WILL was able to reduce the amount of SAF funds needed for the event after receiving funds from several of the College’s schools and departments, including $10,000 from the office of the dean of Humanities and Social Sciences, and other contributions from the Office of Diversity, School of Science, Office of Leadership, School of Engineering, School of Nursing, Health & Exercise Science, School of Business and department of biology.
Shiva was invited to speak as part of Women’s History Month and to address the College’s theme, “Who We Are,” from her perspective as an internationally renowned Indian scientist, author and environmental policy advocate, according to the event’s proposal packet.
“The interdisciplinarity of Shiva’s perspectives will bring together a broad-cross section of the TCNJ community,” the proposal packet reads. “Her world-class stature as an intellectual and activist will also connect TCNJ to groups in the surrounding community who are concerned about environmental science and policy.”
Students, faculty and community members will also be given the opportunity to meet with Shiva in smaller groups.
The Leadership Development Program’s event, Leadership Lock-Up, which will be held in the Brower Student Center on Jan. 20 from noon to 7:30 p.m., was partially funded $4,207.10.
The event will give students an opportunity to network with each other through presentations and group activities, which will have an emphasis on team building and leadership skills, according to the event’s proposal packet.
Speakers at the event will include Don Trahan, the College’s director of diversity and inclusion, and Darryl Bellamy, a professional speaker who specializes in diversity and inclusion within leadership. Bellamy will speak on the importance of creating networks in a multidimensionally diverse era, according to the event’s proposal packet.
“We hope to be able to allow leaders on campus who decide to attend the event to gain a better understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusion,” said Adwoa Nantwi, the vice president of programming of the Leadership Development Program and a senior biology major.
PRISM and Amnesty International’s event, World AIDS Week, which would include speaker Scott Fried, was fully funded $2,500. The event will be held on Nov. 30 from 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the Science Complex.
Fried is a noted speaker on HIV/AIDS and has discussed his experiences throughout the country as an individual living with HIV. This would be his second time speaking at the College after visiting last year.
“He speaks about his experience with becoming HIV positive and he goes into other details such as self-love and self-care in the face of stigma,” said Max Nazario, a senior chemistry major. “It is very emotionally impactful, but at the same time very uplifting and inspirational.”
I-Tunes, an a cappella group, was fully funded $307 for its winter concert, which will be held on Dec. 9 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Mayo Concert Hall. Funding for this event includes the costs of recording materials, paying a student technician and student house manager, ushers and expendable supplies.
This event can benefit the campus community because it provides a diverse arrangement of cultural music in a cappella style, according to its proposal packet.
“We incorporate a lot of international music into our repertoire, which encourages the student body of all different walks of life to attend our event, which sets us apart from the other a cappella groups on campus,” said Mallory Ilves, a special education and women’s, gender and sexuality studies double major.
(11/13/17 10:29pm)
By Eric Preisler
Production Manager
One event was partially funded and one event was tabled at the recent Student Finance Board meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 8.
The board partially funded Indian Student Association $1,425 to host its Diwali Dinner, set to take place on Nov. 17 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the Business Building.
SFB tabled the Diwali Dinner at its Nov. 1 meeting, but decided on Nov. 8 to give ISA funding for food from Mahek, an Indian restaurant, as well as decorations, utensils and drinks.
The Diwali Dinner will allow students to bond with their peers and educate others about Indian culture, according to the event’s proposal packet.
The Class of 2021’s event, Night on the Winter Town, was tabled. It was planned for Dec. 2 from 8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
The event would be held at Freddie’s Tavern, a Ewing-based restaurant and catering hall. Expenses for the event include security costs, Freddie’s Tavern’s venue fee and service charge, busses and a DJ, according to the event’s proposal packet.
The event’s purpose is to create a fun environment for the Class of 2021 where students can socialize and dance, according to the event’s proposal packet.
“It’s basically more of a cozy casual kind of event,” said Suchir Govindarajan, the president of the freshman class and an economics major. “It’s to get to know other people in your class that you don’t necessarily interact with on a daily basis and to get to know your class council.”
The event was presented as a laid-back class unity event, where students would dress casually.
“We decided that we wanted something more friendly,” said Sam Koch, the vice president of operations for the freshman class and a philosophy major. “We didn’t want something so extreme since this is the first time everybody is connecting after Welcome Week.”
This event could allow students to socialize with one another away from the stress of schoolwork and activities, according to the event’s proposal packet.
“The whole friendly environment is also to get people at ease because it is right before finals so people are going to be a little more stressed,” Govindarajan said.
(11/07/17 12:43am)
By Eric Preisler
Production Manager
After months of work and preparation, the College’s Orchestra and Lyric Theatre debuted the musical “Sunday in the Park with George” on Thursday, Nov. 2, on the Kendall Hall Main Stage.
The show was inspired by the painting, “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte” by Georges Seurat, and was produced by lyricist and composer Stephen Sondheim, and director and playwright James Lapine. The play used art to give insight into lessons about life and society. The musical centered around the protagonist George, a fictionalized version of Seurat who immersed himself in his artistic work.
The show shined a light on struggling artists who use creativity to make the audience question current societal trends and people’s destinies.
While several of the cast members found the production challenging to perform, they nonetheless appreciated the complexities of the characters they portrayed.
“(Dot) constantly has to choose between what her heart wants and what is best for her,” said Brianna Carson, a sophomore music education major who played Dot, George’s mistress and muse. “This definitely was the biggest challenge of preparing for performances.”
Other cast members found it a challenge to mirror the character’s demeanor and way of speaking. Megan Hyjack, a junior graphic design major, had to modify how she spoke to reflect her German character, Freida.
“I’ve always been uneasy with accents, so that was my biggest challenge for the entire show,” Hyjack said. “Lots of rehearsal time, and listening to many German YouTube videos helped me get into character.”
Some cast members who were new to theater observed and learned from fellow cast members.
“One of the most difficult things of preparing was that I have never acted before,” said James Mikula, a freshman music education major who played Louis, Dot’s love interest. “I kind of had to watch other people and observe how they did things, and try to pick it up on my own.”
The cast also shared certain qualities they liked about the characters. Each character added dimensions to George’s story while also adding their own magic to the performance.
“I chose to audition for (Dot) because I admire her humor, intelligence and passion,” Carson said of her character. “Dot is such a lovable and fun character, but is also extremely complex.”
Even if they didn’t have the biggest role, cast members appreciated the opportunity to contribute to the performance, and their hard work paid off.
“I enjoy the fact that even though I have a minor role,” Mikula said of his character Louis, “my character helps push the plot along.”
McEwan thought the dissonant harmonies and rhythms of Sondheim’s music added to the drama onstage.
“Sondheim’s music is incredible –– there is absolutely nothing like playing in a Sondheim show,” McEwan said. “At first listen it may not all make sense, but the more you delve into it, everything comes together to create something beautiful.”
Members of both the cast and orchestra were pleased with the performance –– their preparations were well worth the positive reception at opening night.
“I feel as though the entire production came together seamlessly,” Carson said. “The whole cast came together to tell a beautiful story.”
(11/06/17 4:51pm)
By Eric Preisler
Production Manager
Three events were tabled at this week’s Student Finance Board meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 1.
Thanksgiving Remix, proposed by the Black Student Union, was tabled first. The event would be in the Brower Student Center on Nov. 18 from 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
The event’s purpose would be to highlight diversity on campus by allowing students to experience the different foods and traditions of various cultures, according to the event’s proposal packet.
“What might be on your Thanksgiving dinner table may not necessarily be on someone else’s Thanksgiving dinner table,” said Gayle Mayani, a junior international studies and marketing double major and the treasurer of BSU. “We wanted to show a mix of how people incorporate their ethnic identity with their national identity.”
Thanksgiving Remix would bring together cultural organizations that do not usually co-sponsor events together, according to the event’s proposal packet.
If passed, this event would be co-sponsored by several multicultural groups including the Indian Student Association, the Spanish Club and the Union Latina.
ISA’s Diwali Dinner, which was proposed to be held on Nov. 17 from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. in the Business Building lounge, was also tabled.
The event would allow students to celebrate Diwali with food and decorations while spending time with friends. There would also be games such as Jeopardy for ISA students and the campus community to partake in, according to the event’s proposal packet.
Jasmine Mahajan, a sophomore biology major and the treasurer of ISA, said that how people celebrate Diwali is similar to how people celebrate Thanksgiving. Families spend time cooking together, and there are a lot of different foods and decorations involved in the celebration.
Women in Leadership and Learning’s event, which would include guest speaker Vandana Shiva, was also tabled. The event was proposed to be held on April 12, at 5 p.m. in Mayo Concert Hall.
Shiva is educated in quantum physics and is involved in environmental research. She founded the Research Foundation for Science Technology in 1982 and Navdanya, an organization that protects biodiversity, according to the event’s proposal packet.
“She is an Indian scientist and also an ecofeminist,” said Abigail Moor, vice executive chair of WILL and a junior special education and women’s, gender and sexuality studies double major. “She is world-renowned in her field.”
Shiva’s appearance would tie in with women’s history month and the College’s theme, “Who We Are,” according to the event’s proposal packet.
SFB advised WILL to look for ways to prioritize seats at the event for students, change the timing of the event so it would not conflict with students’ schedules and potentially include fees for non-students.
Colleges Against Cancer was fully funded $789 for the Great American Smokeout, which will be held on Nov. 17 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Green Lawn.
There will be an advocacy table at the event to inform students about the dangers of smoking, how to quit the habit, and ways to get help in addition to the festive hamburgers and hotdogs. Students can also make pledges to stop or decrease smoking habits at the event.
(10/31/17 6:24pm)
By Eric Preisler
Production Manager
As the semester progresses, work accumulates, exams commence, and stress begins to consume me. As soon as the workload of the semester piles up and challenges approach, it can be easy to look forward to the end of the semester. Eyes gazed into the distance, it can feel natural to go on autopilot as I look forward to the future, and the present flies by.
Wishing and preparing for the future comes naturally to me. In high school, I anticipated for graduation and the beginning of college. Even recently, I am focused on getting into the best graduate program and landing a good job. In the midst of pressure and chaos, I have a tendency to focus on the end goal without attending to my surroundings in the present.
After a stressful week of projects and midterms, I realized that I have not been fully living in the moment or appreciating my time at the College this fall. I realized how finite our time at college is — just a year ago the campus still seemed new to me, and by next year I will be close to graduating.
Our time at the College is fleeting and we should make the best out of these years by recognizing our full range of emotions, including our lows and our highs. While reflecting on the causes of my stress, I realized that I have a lot to be thankful for. Just being in college, and having that be the focal point of my struggles puts me in a more privileged situation than most of the world.
It is also important to recognize the mistakes we make — this may be one of the only times in our lives when can do poorly on an assignment, flunk an exam, or screw up in some other aspect of our lives without immediately facing serious consequences. Living in the moment can allow us to learn and grow from the mistakes we make in the present.
Wishing away our limited number of semesters also prevents us from creating positive experiences and memories. Solely focusing on the importance of the future and the end of a chapter only inhibits the potential at which life can be experienced.
The time we spend in college is ephemeral — in just a few years we will move onto a new chapter of our lives and an entirely different population will make up the College. Since our time here is limited, we should focus on enjoying and learning as much as we can from the present moment. Growing from our experiences in the present can contribute to our success in the future.
(10/30/17 9:51pm)
By Eric Preisler
Production Manager
TCNJ Musical Theatre, Chabad and the Chinese Student Association all received funding for events at this week’s Student Finance Board meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 27.
TCNJ Musical Theatre was fully funded $2,495 to rent 17 microphones for its production of “Sweeney Todd,” which will run from Nov. 14 to Nov. 18.
“The music is complicated but it is also very intense,” said Cat Janis, TMT’s president and a senior psychology and women’s, gender and sexuality studies double major.
It is “impossible” to hear the cast without microphones, according to Janis, who said the microphones are essential for production. Many tickets for the event have already been sold.
“We don’t want them to pay only to not be able to hear all of the hard work that we have been doing since the end of August,” Janis said.
Chabad was partially funded $3,355.26 for its celebration, Chanukah Beat, which will be held on Dec. 4 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in room 212 of the Education Building.
Funding from the board covers costs of traditional foods, an inflatable bear and a drumming performance.
“They put on a drumming performance to the story of Hanukkah so it incorporates that religious aspect into it,” said Erica Levine, junior biology major and member of Chabad.
This event is open to all students and is intended to unify the campus community.
“The purpose of this event is to bring the campus community together to celebrate and learn about the jewish holiday of Hanukkah, giving them tools and inspiration to be more successful in life,” to the event’s proposal packet said.
The proposal also initially included the construction of a menorah made out of ice, but this was not funded. The ice sculpture would have represented the celebration of making fire into oil, according to Levine.
The Chinese Student Association was fully funded $1,550.27 for its teahouse event on Nov. 11, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the Travers-Wolfe Lounge.
“This allows for students to have an experience with Chinese culture through foods like egg tarts, traditional dim sum and teas,” said Stephanie MacDougal, president of CSA and a sophomore international studies major.
Students can learn about the history and importance of tea in Chinese culture at this event.
“Tea houses are an embodiment of the Chinese tea culture and also Chinese people’s leisurely lives,” said Alice Li, treasurer of CSA and a senior statistics major.
CSA hopes to have a diverse range of performances at this event. Other cultural clubs on campus will be invited to perform vocal and dance exhibitions.
“We’d like to keep it open so all students on campus can enjoy it, because this isn’t just meant for Chinese American students on campus,” MacDougall said. “This is meant so everyone can enjoy the culture and everyone can experience it and just have a good time.”
(10/22/17 6:15pm)
By Eric Preisler
Production Manager
Two events planned for November were fully funded at this week’s Student Finance Board meeting.
The Haitian Student Association was funded $510.01 for HSA Caribbean Night, which the board tabled at last week’s meeting. The event will be held on Nov. 30 in the Student Center from 8:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
This event allows students to come together and relax before a stressful week of finals. Students can play games such as dominoes, which is common in Caribbean culture, according to the event’s proposal packet.
“Caribbean Game Night is a chance for the caribbean students to experience a fun game night filled with laughter, jokes and music, “ the proposal explained.
HSA wants to represent other Caribbean cultures at this event, in contrast to previous years. Instead of exclusively serving Haitian dishes, HSA plans to include Jamaican dishes, such as jerk chicken.
“It’s our way of including other Caribbean cultures on campus, because we are HSA but we are trying to expand to other Caribbean clubs on campus,” said Rosebernoude Cherilus, the president of HSA and a sociology and anthropology double major.
All College Theater was fully funded $1,975 for its annual Interactive Dinner Theatre, which will be held on Nov. 10 and Nov. 11 at 8 p.m. in the Decker Social Space.
Tickets will cost $8 for students and $10 for general admission. ACT expects a turnout of 150 people per night.
Expenses include funding for catering, props, costumes, and hair and makeup.
“It allows a lot of students to get involved in different aspects,” said Natalia Byrdak, a senior interdisciplinary business major and president of ACT.
The show will also provide some improvisation between the performers and the audience.
“It gives all of the actors a really good opportunity to improvise and a really good opportunity to interact more one on one with the audience,” said Molly Knapp, a junior public health and women’s, gender and sexuality studies double major and the treasurer of ACT.
The show is written by students, and includes roles for actors, directors, stage managers, designers and other positions. Extras are also used in the show, so no one who auditions is cut from the production.