The Saint :: Issue 6

Gray wolf hunt | 3

AQ basketball | 7

Thor: The Dark World Editor-in-Chief Stephanie Giluk reviews the latest superhero installment.

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theSaint

Wednesday, November 20, 2013 Volume 33, Issue 6

We’re hungry like the wolf in your backyard.

Speaking up

>>NEWS LLC Spotlight | 2 Staff Writer Mayra Monroy takes a look at the LLC Woodcock Hall, whose theme is empowerment.

Harry Potter | 3 A little magic will hit campus this spring in the form of the highly anticipated class.

>>CULTURE Avril Lavigne | 5 Take a look at the Canadian rocker’s latest self-titled album.

12 Years a Slave | 6 Staff Writer Nathan Gimby reviews Steve McQueen’s Oscar contender.

>>SPORTS Fall sports recap | 7 The Saint has everything you need to know about the end of the season.

Carly Bardwell | 8 Sports Editor Alyssa Frese interviews the senior basketball player about her time at Aquinas.

AQ senior Jessie McCormick advocates for homeless student aid and the community responds

By Laura Farrell News Editor College is not easy. Imagine how much more difficult it would be without a place to call home. Senior Jessie McCormick has managed to successfully navigate through her three and a half years of college even without a place to call home.

Wi t h n o c o n s i s t e n t p l a c e t o go to on different breaks and her on campus housing unavailable, McCormick decided to do something about it, not only for her but also for other students who lack permanent housing.

Through the website change.org, McCormick started a petition during this fall break. In her petition, McCormick called for Aquinas College to “provide safe housing for foster and homeless students during break periods, especially during the cold winter months.”

McCormick described how s h e wa s a h o m e l e s s y o u t h a n d successfully finished high school and was accepted into college, but her struggles with housing have been serious cause for concern.

In her petition, McCormick noted that “Aquinas College provides opportunities to rent on-campus apartments during the summer months, and allows international students and in-season athletes to maintain their housing over fall and spring breaks.” She notes that students without stable homes are “left without options” during some of those breaks.

McCormick started the petition October 20, and by October 31, her petition had reached 100,000 signatures. In supporting McCormick’s cause, many people

Healthcare hiccups Frustration over Affordable Care Act divides Democratic Party

By Nathan Gimby Staff Writer President Obama’s popularity has been sliding amidst unforeseen flaws in the Affordable Care Act’s implementation. Frustration over the ACA has divided the Democratic Pa r t y , a s l a s t F r i d a y 3 9 H o u s e Democrats broke ranks and voted in favor of a Republican-sponsored bill that would curtail key portions of the health care legislation.

The bill, which passed in a 261-157 vote, would allow health insurance companies to keep selling policies that do not meet ACA requirements.

Dubbed the “Keep Your Health Plan Act,” the proposal is a response to a slew of insurance companies cancelling health plans that fail to meet the standards despite promises by the Obama administration that citizens would be able to keep their old insurance plans.

The bill is not expected to pass in the Democratically-controlled Senate “but it is seen as the most significant legislative rebuke yet to the law,” according to BBC News.

Most Democrats claim the bill will “gut” the ACA and have rallied behind the president who has proposed “administrative fixes” that will likely include a year-long extension on plans that do not meet ACA minimum requirements, the Washington Post reports.

At a p r e s s c o n f e r e n c e l a s t

Thursday, Obama addressed concerns about the ACA, namely the botched roll-out of the online healthcare exchange in October and the policy cancellations.

Technical issues with the federal exchange site, healthcare.gov, have prevented thousands of Americans from enrolling in healthcare policies.

Since the site went live on Oct. 1, roughly 27,000 have been able to enroll with an additional 79,000 enrolling through sites run by individual states, according to BBC News.

“The problems of the website have prevented too many Americans from completing the enrollment process, and that’s on us, not on them. But there’s no question that there’s real demand for quality, affordable health insurance,” Obama said at the Oct. 14 conference.

But it is unclear when the site will become fully operational. Initial estimates by the administration promised a fully functional website by the end of the month but Obama’s comments at press time seemed to indicate lower expectations than previously stated, according to CNN. “The website will work much better on November 30, December 1, than it worked certainly on October 1,” Obama said before noting, “That’s a pretty low bar.”

stated their reasons for supporting the petition.

Although many supporters were affiliated with Aquinas College, McCormick’s petition quickly gained support around the country.

Many people noted their awareness of homeless students, but seemed to be startled by the lack of housing support during breaks.

On Monday, November 18, a common read panel was held in the Cook Carriage House. The panel was sponsored by the Inquiry and Expression Program in honor of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. McCormick served on the panel alongside Administrator of Covenant House Academy Doreen Mangrum and National Higher Education Liaison LAURA FARRELL / THE SAINT for Homeless Youth Cyekeia Lee phoned in to round out Speaking up: Covenant House Academy administrator Doreen Mangrum sits alongside Aquinas senior Jessie McCormick at the common read panel on November 18. the panel.

The panel focused helps 16-22-year-olds gain their high h o m e l e s s n e s s i s a r e a l p r o b l e m on the obstacles that homeless school diplomas and prepare for life affecting even the most successful teenagers face, especially during the after high school. Mangrum stressed s t u d e n t s . M c C o r m i c k , w h o process of college. During the panel, how vital it is for homeless students i s m a j o r i n g i n S o c i o l o g y a n d McCormick discussed her lack of a Community Leadership, hopes to to “prioritize survival.” home from a very young age and S h e a l s o n o t e d t h a t e v e n have started an awareness that will captivated the audience with her students who have “a roof over aide future AQ students. honesty. their heads still might not have a “If I could leave something here She explained how she finished home.” Lee emphasized the need that could make it so that students high school and got to Aquinas with f o r m o r e e m p a t h y f o r h o m e l e s s who have experienced similar things the help of her vice principals at students and a centralized way for could have it that much easier, I’d be West Catholic High School in Grand homeless students to seek assistance so happy,” said McCormick.

Rapids and the organization Arbor on campus.

Circle.

The panel left the audience Mangrum heads Covenant with the stark realization that House Academy, a program that

World news

By Yashowanto Ghosh The Saint Reporter INDONESIA – A volcano in northern Sumatra has become active again after over 400 years, spewing stone and ashes for longer than two months now, with a column of ash shooting 7000 meters into the sky on Thursday, November 14. More than 5,000 people have been forced to flee their homes, but there have been no casualties so far. The volcano, Sinabung, is 1.5 miles high, and is one of about 500 volcanoes on the island nation.

J A PA N – J a p a n lowered its Kyoto Protocol goals of reducing carbon dioxide and greenhouse gas emissions to 25 percent b e l o w 1 9 9 0 l e ve l s b y 2020, it announced on COURTESY TOM CASADEVALL Friday, November 15.

The new goal would be Fiery eruption: Sinabung, a volcano in Indonesia, has become active once again after a 400 year a three percent increase standstill. from 1990 levels. The r e a s o n w h y t h e o r i g i n a l g o a l i s to dismiss chairs of city committees killed over 5,000 in the Philippines no longer viable is the Fukushima or the Deputy Mayor, as well as his in 1991. nuclear disaster of 2011, after which power to govern the city in a state of CHINA – President Xi Jinping new security measures forced cut emergency. announced reforms, including downs on nuclear energy, increasing THE PHILIPPINES – A category repealing of the country’s one-child the country’s dependence on fossil 5 t y p h o o n , T y p h o o n H a i y a n , policy and the abolition of its labor fuel. devastated the central Philippines camps, on Friday, November 15. A CANADA – Toronto mayor Rob with six landfalls for half a week, Chinese couple may now have two Ford admitted having used crack k i l l i n g o v e r 3 , 0 0 0 p e o p l e a n d children if at least one of the parents cocaine after months of persistent affecting over 10 million others. is an only child. The one-child and highly publicized allegations. Some estimates put the death toll at policy had been in force since 1979.

Cell phone videos of Ford smoking over 10,000. International aid has The labor camps were set up in the cocaine, rumored since May to be been slow in translating into relief early 1950s by Mao Zedong for “rein existence, were acknowledged by b e c a u s e o f e x t e n s i ve d a m a g e t o education” through labor of “class Toronto police. The Toronto City infrastructure, allegedly resulting in enemies” numbering in millions.

Council voted on Friday, November widespread looting for survival in 15, to remove Ford’s mayoral powers the affected regions. A tropical storm

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THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2013

Aquinas: New Apartment E building set to break ground soon

Michigan: Ravenna sisters arrested for hiring hitman

National: San Fransisco turns into Gotham City for cancer patient

World: Lost WWII art stolen by Nazis found

With an increased demand for on-campus housing, administration is responding with the construction of a new apartment building. The groundbreaking for Apartment E will be held on November 20, at 10:30 a.m. in the Donnelly Center parking lot, where the building is to be constructed.

Two sisters from Ravenna, MI, were arrested last week after trying to hire an undercover policeman to kill one of their husbands. The sisters, Diane Marie Hart and Vickie Lynn Brill, were set each to a $100,000 bond and their preliminary hearings are scheduled for November 27.

On Friday, November 15, a portion of San Francisco, CA was transformed into Batman’s Gotham City as Make-a-Wish recipient Miles School, also known as Batkid, saved the city. With thousands of people partaking in the day’s events, Scott took down infamous Batman villains in the heartwarming event.

Over 1,400 pieces of art “seized” by Nazi forces in the midst of WWII were recently discovered in Munich. Many of the pieces come from renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse. Experts say the collections value is “too high to estimate,” according to CNN.

Cinematic goldrush? laura farrell |news editor It is certainly the most wonderful time of the year. And it is not because Santa has been sitting outside of Macy’s.

It is because it’s movie time. With the award show season starting up at the beginning of the new year, November, December and January, are always sure to be jammed packed with Oscar contenders.

I have already gotten some of those moves out of the way. I splurged bigtime on a 3D IMAX showing of Sandra Bullock’s Gravity. Starring Sandra Bullock and George Clooney, it took a few minutes for my eyes and mind to get adjusted to the incredible cinematography, and no, not because of Mr. Clooney’s beautiful face. The high intensity movie has you feeling like an astronaut yourself, floating in desperation right along Bullock.

I get my movie obsession from my parents, a tradition heavily carried on by myself and my two siblings. Oscar buzzed and highly acclaimed movies are always on tap for a Farrell family weekend. Hailing from Muskegon, MI, the Harbor Theatre, located right on the lakeshore, was always the place to go. A small, hometown theatre complete with a vintage sign, the Harbor Theatre used to run foreign and independent films, Oscar contenders, as well as a few blockbusters.

My family and I saw some incredible documentaries such as Mad Hot Ballroom, Exit Through the Gift Shop Door, and a personal favorite Religulous at “The Harbor.” I also saw Oscar favorites like Hurt Locker and An Education. Although the number of moviegoers dramatically varied, the quality and diversity of films did not.

But like most small business and things in Muskegon, “The Harbor” was not easy to keep afloat. Even charging lower prices for both tickets and concession, as compared to Celebration Cinema’s Muskegon theater, “The Harbor” had persistent financial troubles.

Acclaimed documentarian and Michigan native Michael Moore helped out all he could, hosting an event to benefit the theater. Although “The Harbor” was the only place to see such films without driving great distances, it sadly closed its doors in January 2011.

It is no shock to admit that the industry of cinema is a giant. Actors are paid millions upon millions of dollars to appear in films. Like my girl Jennifer Lawrence, for example, who received a salary of $500,000 for The Hunger Games plus franchise bonuses. For this week’s Catching Fire, the second installment of The Hunger Games, Lawrence received a salary of $10 million before any bonuses.

Quite the promotion I would say.

A night at the movies seems to now always be my bank accounts worst recurring nightmare. Tickets are not shy to price up to $20 for IMAX, 3D, Dbox, etc. I can’t even talk about the prices of movie theatre popcorn or refreshments.

For a lot of people, movies are a major source of culture and entertainment.

Some of the greatest movies, like The Shawshank Redemption or Gone with the Wind, are not only entertaining, but they are so because they are full of life, lessons and emotion.

I worry that with movie studios running the world of cinema, we are in fact losing a great deal of culture. One documentary or independent film at $10 a ticket at Celebration Cinema is not going to cut it.

I understand that movies are not for everyone, and neither are nonblockbuster movies. This is evidenced with the Harbor Theatre’s reopening.

More blockbuster movies are shown, with prices a little more expensive.

Documentaries and independent films still remain a welcomed friend to the Harbor, however.

So this brimming blockbuster filled holiday season, I urge you all to head out to a theatre “off the beaten path” (try the UICA or Wealthy St. Theatre), and choose a movie you might not have before chosen. Let it surprise you. I’m confident you and your wallet will thank me.

Crisis abroad

Student Senate update

Typhoon takes a toll in the Philippines

AQ writing center looks to aid students and faculty

By Emily Elias The Saint Reporter Student Senate always keeps busy throughout the school year, finding new ways to improve the school or to help keep the students entertained with exciting activities. The end of the fall semester is proving to be just as busy.

“Currently we are working on raising money for the Research Fund that senate runs,” said academic affairs

headed off to Ireland for the spring semester. Junior Madeleine Burns will be taking over for Gimby during the spring semester as she returns from her study abroad trip in Rome.

Upcoming construction events include the groundbreaking of apartment E, which will be held on Wednesday, November 20. Some resident assistants have been asked to be groundbreakers during this ceremony. The city of Grand Rapids

<< “Currently we are working on raising money for the Research Fund that Senate runs”>> director Charles Hyde.

Many of the current Senate projects are the long term goals that are being worked on campus-wide.

Senate is doing their best to look into sustainability issues to assist with the efforts of being zero waste by 2014.

Senate has put together a sustainability committee that recently met up with faculty and staff discussing obstacles and challenges to reaching zero waste status.

Senate is also preparing for the winter season, making sure that the whole campus will be safe when the snow falls. Senate chairperson Brandon Heritier is leading the winter initiative.

Executive secretary Kaela Bouwkamp is in charge of planning activities for commuters to take part in for the rest of the academic year, as well as producing the monthly commuter newsletter.

Budget director Nathan Gimby is finishing up his term, as he will be

has approved the parking lot extension between Fulton house and Hruby lot.

With the end of the fall semester comes a wide variety of tasks and small projects for Senate to complete. “We are looking into a service for students to be able to transfer money into Papercut at any time,” said junior representative Jacob Harris. The upcoming Exam Cram will include extended library hours, among other events, sponsored

by Student Senate. Other notable initiatives include the electronic signups for the German Club Trip to Chicago.

Junior representative Tyler Clark serves on the Safety Audit committee, who is currently gathering student perspectives. “What we’re doing is preforming a campus-wide survey of our safety policies and procedures,” said Clark. The committee is also working hard on putting into effect the tobacco policy on campus.

COURTESY PETER ELLIS

Hand in hand: With the typhoon’s devastating effects, help from around the world is making its way to the Philippines.

By Laura Farrell News Editor O n N o ve m b e r 8 , a t y p h o o n ripped through the Philippines, devastating the surrounding areas.

Typhoon Haiyan, or as it is locally k n o w n , T y p h o o n Yo l a n d a , h a s become one of the worst tropical storms of all time. The heavily populated islands of Cebu, Bohoi and Leyte were hit the worst.

The storm’s path ran right through the heart of the Philippines, affecting popular areas as well as more remote, less populated areas.

Even two weeks after the storm, the damage across the country is still too great to measure. Filipino President Beningo Aquino declared the storm a “national calamity.”

According to NBC, the storm was 370 miles wide and had sustained winds of 195 miles per hour, with some gusts reaching 235 miles per hour. With over 3 million people displaced from the storm, the islands remain chaotic.

Even with the storm’s

forewarnings, the winds proved to be too much for the islands’ population.

Over one million citizens evacuated or took shelter, but the winds of Haiyan were unprecedented.

Lack of communication makes the rising death toll hard to count, but some sources estimate that it could reach up to 10,000, perhaps even greater. Two Americans have been identified among the dead so far.

Over 18,000 people have been injured and around 1,600 people were still reported missing as of Monday night.

With the full scope of needed aid yet to come, relief efforts have been underway across the world.

A barge full of supplies, medicine, and food was set to reach Cebu on Sunday, November 17. The Red Cross immediately began taking monetary and supply donations.

The Red Cross and other organizations took to social media as a form of receiving monetary donations. Text REDCROSS to 90999 to give a $10 donation to the Red Cross for Philippine relief.

Living Learning Community spotlight:

Woodcock Hall

The ladies of Woodcock want the Aquinas student body to empower themselves Each LLC on Aquinas’ to get out and meet new campus has devoted their people. With this event still mission to certain aspect of in the works, plan to see it what they’d like to see change happen mid-December. or elaborate, such as the overall The dynamic in the community atmosphere, health, house is a friendly, familial sustainability, etc. However, there atmosphere that can only be is one LLC that does not want seen in such a close group of you to change. They want you to women. “We’re a family; it’s a empower yourself. supportive community,” said The Empowerment LLC, Morath. Among the women, located in Woodcock Hall, the idea of an Empowerment houses seven women who want LLC was developed in belief to embrace all of the four charisms that empowering yourself of the Aquinas community. “Our and another would impact main goal is to empower people the campus in a powerful through the four charisms, to light along with motivating empower people academically, students. spiritually, through the “If students are more community and through service,” empowered, they will want said sophomore Alyssa Moritz. to do more things and do T h e f i r s t e ve n t t h a t t h e what they really want to do house held was the creation of and achieve their goals,” said “vision” boards with freshmen Moritz. participants. The vision boards These women make it project was an event held midtheir mission to create an September and was a craft that exclusive, welcoming home COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS to Aquinas students and will would help freshmen envision w h a t t h e y w o u l d l i k e t o Empowerment: Woodcock Hall is home to the Empowerment LLC this school year. stop at nothing to emphasize accomplish in their academic the importance of the four school year.

“It’s going to be the spiritual charism. and how they can empower themselves charisms and the power that comes with A future event that the house wants We want to make it so that people have to give more,” said sophomore Kelsey empowering yourself. to hold is a Christmas party/open house. a chance to reflect on the giving season Morath.

By Mayra Monroy Staff Writer

News Editor Laura Farrell E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

Phone (616) 632-2975

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

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THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2013

NEWS

Hogwarts or Aquinas?

The hunt begins

Harry Potter class finds room in busy spring semester

Michigan’s first gray wolf hunt is underway in the Upper Peninsula

The class has not only gained interest and popularity in the just the student body, but also faculty and staff. “Father Stan, who would

Though the class is based on the highly popular series by J.K. Rowling, DeRose cannot wait to explore why this specific series was loved and Among the read by so many classes many. “The being offered students are at Aquinas, a the age of when recent addition the books came to the Spring out. It’s as if you 2014 semester grew up with has created a these people positive buzz on as friends,” campus. Harry said DeRose.

Potter in Critical Another aspect and Cultural that is planned C o n t e x t , to be discussed shortened by is the findings most as “the that came to Harry Potter light o nc e the Class,” is a series reached semester long its final book. three hour block Harry Potter o n Tu e s d a y s will also be taught by discussed in Director of terms of its Insignis and connection to P r o f e s s o r Tolkien’s Lord of English of the Rings. This Dr. Michelle connection ties DeRose. The COURTESY CARLOS CRUZ i n t o a n o t h e r class, offered class that will as an elective to Lively magic: Six years after J.K. Rowling penned the final installment and two years b e o f f e r e d i n students, is in since the last film was released, Harry Potter remains incredibly popular with fans. The t h e s p r i n g , its second run, Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a popular part of Universal studios in Florida.

Tolkien, Narnia first offered to and Catholic Insignis students three years ago. love to sit in, was invited in to Imagery, taught by Dr. Stephen The class, already completely full t a l k s p e c i f i c a l l y a b o u t C a t h o l i c Davis. at 25 students, will examine multiple Theological principles,” said DeRose.

Overall, the class will explore the t h e o r i e s a n d h a ve a d i s c u s s i o n T h e s e r i e s w i l l n o t o n l y b e different themes, theories, cultural element as students explore the examined through different contexts and general significance of the Harry several aspects of the series. “We’re but will also include different aspects Potter series. The class is offered on not just reading the series,” said of religion that could be evident Tuesdays 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. but has DeRose. “We’re going to read the in the series. “We’re focusing on reached its full capacity. series and then choose different different aspects of culture that cultural filters and lenses through are heightened in the series,” said which we talk about them.”

DeRose.

By Mayra Monroy Staff Writer

COURTESY JIM CLARK

Howl: The hunt has already yielded several kills in the Upper Peninsula, which would allow for 43 gray wolf kills before the year is up.

By Kane McLoughlin The Saint Reporter As of November 18, 2013, the DNR (Michigan Department of Natural Resources) confirmed the deaths of six more wolves in Michigan’s controversial wolf hunt: one wolf was harvested in Gogebic County, four others were harvested in portions of Baraga, Houghton and Ontonagon counties, and another was harvested in portions of Luce and Mackinac counties.

DNA officials anticipate a slow start to the hunt due to the rule that all wolf killings must be reported to the DNR within 24 hours, with a 72-hour window to bring the carcass to one of the five check-in stations spread across the Upper Peninsula. The DNR also expects that only three percent of the 1,200 licensed wolf hunters will be successful. However, some are skeptical in predicting the course of the hunt once it starts yielding more deaths.

Whether or not the hunt will deter wolves from human interaction is an issue that DNR spokesperson Ed Golder voiced in a recent interview with ABC News.

“Our hunt is specifically designed around chronic conflict between wolves and humans where other

me t h o ds of r e sol u t i on we r e n ot successful,” Golder said. “The hunt may also change the behavior of wolves in the hunt unit – make them more wary of people, residential areas and farms –and reduce the abundance o f w o l ve s i n t h e se ma n a g e me n t areas that have experienced chronic problems.”

The state estimates Michigan’s 658-strong gray wolf population will not be hurt in the long term by the hunt. However, some conservation groups are skeptical. The effect the hunt will have in the long term and whether hunting wolves in Michigan will become an annual event is a concern of conservation groups such like Keep Michigan Wolves Protected.

Keep Michigan Wolves Protected advocates that the reclassification of the wolf population as a nonendangered species came about too soon. They fear that this hunt undermines decades of bringing the wolf population back from the brink of extinction. Keep Michigan Wolves Protected recently tried to gather 255,000 signatures statewide to place the wolf discussion under Michigan voters in a referendum, but they were unsuccessful. With six out of 43 wolves already harvested, the next seven weeks will reveal more about the effects of this hunt.

Stormy days Bad weather hits the Midwest and AQ is no exception

By Laura Farrell News Editor

Grand Valley’s Master of Science degree in biology gives students the opportunity to study at the graduate level in exciting areas such as genetic and cell biology, organismal biology, aquatic and terrestrial ecology, and natural resources.

UNIQUE. Students and advisors collaborate to establish a highly individualized, planned program of study designed to meet the personal goals of each graduate student.

VERSATILE. Choose from optional natural resources or aquatic science emphases, both of which provide research and study opportunities at GVSU’s Robert B. Annis Water Resources Institute on Muskegon Lake.

FLEXIBLE. Graduate programs are available to full- or part-time students, and many classes are offered at times convenient for working professionals.

Apply today. Visit www.gvsu.edu/grad/biology or contact Dr. Mark Luttenton at (616) 331-2503 or luttentm@gvsu.edu for more information.

News Editor Laura Farrell

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

As storms rolled through midwestern United States this past weekend, Grand Rapids was not exempt from high winds and heavy rain. Other parts of the midwest were severely hit, as multiple tornadoes whipped through at least six states, Illinois being hit the hardest. The tornadoes and severe thunderstorms hit 11 states in all.

A tornado went right through Washington County, Illinois, leaving a path of destruction three miles long.

Any building or car in the tornado’s path was destroyed leaving massive damage. At least eight people, six in Illinois and two in Michigan, were killed by the November 17 storms.

Relief efforts began on Monday morning, as the storm’s damage was initially assessed.

In West Michigan, the storms started Sunday afternoon and went on through the evening. A tornado watch was in effect Sunday afternoon for Kent County until 3:45 p.m. Storms later that evening persisted, blowing out the power in large parts of Kent County.

The Aquinas campus was

Phone (616) 632-2975

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

unfortunately no exception to the power loss. Power went out across campus late Sunday evening, cancelling most events such as intramural volleyball.

The power stayed out across campus, with campus safety working round the clock to accommodate residents.

Classes were canceled on Monday until 5:30 p.m. as the power returned to most classrooms sometime around 4 p.m.

Students were provided refuge with hot chocolate in the Cook Carriage House, provided by Campus Life.

Wege Dining Hall and the Grace Hauenstein Library remained open for student convenience.

Many other parts of Grand Rapids have also been without power due to the storm. Consumer’s Energy estimated that nearly 6,000 customers were without power on Monday morning. The intersection of 28th Street and Division Ave., an area hit hard by last spring’s flood, remained underwater on Monday.

By Monday afternoon, a good portion of campus had its power restored. Some areas on the East side of campus, including apartments A, B, C, Dominican Hall and most LLC houses, did not have power until around 8:30 p.m.

opinion >> FROM THE CROWD

APPLAUSE TO...

All the people on and off campus who worked hard to restore our power; The power outage, for cancelling our classes on Monday; Lady Gaga, for proving she doesn’t take herself too seriously; Catching Fire, for coming soon to a theater near us; The Shakk at Wege, for being delicious; Celebration Cinema, for showing the 50th anniversary episode of Doctor Who; Vine, for providing endless amounts of entertainment and procrastination; Campus Life, for providing free hot chocolate when the power was down.

Squirrels, for their insatiable desire to chew through everything; Final paper deadlines, for still being much closer than we thought; Fancy TV channels, for limiting our access to our favorite shows; Winter hats, for being surprisingly hard to find even though it’s almost winter; Thor: The Dark World, for not being about Loki; Delivery fees, for even existing in the first place; Natural disasters, for destroying people’s lives; Justin Bieber, for making “PYD.”

theSaint 2013-2014 E D I T O R I A L B O A R D Stephanie Giluk Laura Farrell Paris Close

Sports Editor Managing Editor

Alyssa Frese Michelle Szczap

Adviser Dr. Dan Brooks *** Please note that the views expressed on this page are those of their respective author(s), and do not necessarily represent the views of The Saint as a whole.

MISSION The Saint has worked diligently for the past 31 years to produce an informative, entertaining and journalistically-correct student publication. The Saint is distributed by students at Aquinas College and in the surrounding community.

Our goal is to continue to provide an open forum for the ideas, views and concerns of the Aquinas community.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR All letters must include a signature, typed or handwritten, and include a phone number for the sole purpose of verification. The Saint reserves the right to edit letters to the editor based on content, punctuation, length and libel issues.

Letters should not exceed 300 words. We will not print anonymous letters to the editor and will not accept letters to the editor over the phone.

>> write us a letter!

e-mail — saint.editors@aquinas.edu, or use the form on our website.

physical copies – AB, Room 20

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THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2013

The benefits of choosing the right college

By Chuck Hyde Staff Writer Sometimes people question my choice of colleges. I am nonreligious, so people that don’t go here (and even some that do) don’t understand why I would choose a Catholic college. They say it as though I am offended by the mere thought of religion. I’ve even had some people say that they didn’t think “non-believers” were allowed at Aquinas. Granted, they were from an older and far different generation.

These criticisms actually point to one of the main reasons I chose Aquinas. No one cares that I’m not Catholic or even Christian.

They accept me, and I feel more at home here than possibly anywhere

else I’ve ever been. This may be a Catholic college, but the inclusion and compassion of all of our peers makes everyone feel welcomed.

As I sat in an upper level class of mine the other day, I considered the open and accepting nature of the student body here. Our generation, despite what the ones before us may say, is the most open and accepting generation there has been. We were discussing the lack of biological research into the roots of homosexuality, and it made us realize that we can change that. Soon enough we will be the ones making important decisions and determining research and political movements. Personally, I think this is a good thing.

Many of those older than us worry that we won’t be able to deal with the economic crises that will

likely still be around when we grow into ourselves (ones that they helped cause, of course). However, more people are attending college than ever, which won’t hurt us. Again, the social conscience of this generation will help everyone will be happier and maybe even healthier. Our generation can help make the country into a place where everyone is welcomed, and that is a good start.

Back to Aquinas. I have to admit that I was initially surprised by how welcoming the community is. I knew next to nothing about the campus when I applied, but it felt right.

The sheer amount of support for everyone, the friendliness I always run into and everything else makes managing all of the different classes, jobs and clubs in my life that much easier.

Open season on the best game in town

By Stephanie Giluk Editor-in-Chief

HECKLES TO...

Editor-in-Chief News Editor Culture Editor

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As many of you are no doubt aware, hunting season in the state of Michigan is in full swing and has been for some time. I only have to scroll through my Facebook feed on any given day to see happy hunters holding the bloody, majestically antlered heads of their prey to remind myself that if I go through the appropriate channels, I too could dress in camo and shoot living things so I can hang their heads proudly on my wall.

This year is particularly exciting to hunters, because gray wolves have come off the endangered species list. As a result, Michigan has issued 1,200 hunters licenses in order to kill 43 gray wolves before the year is up.

It’s estimated that there are a total of 1,467 wolves in Wisconsin and the UP, and we can all agree that’s just a few too many.

Even though Escanaba-based State Senator Tom Casperson revealed recently that the story he told to encourage the hunt to move forward (which claimed several gray wolves repeatedly appeared at and

threatened a day care full of children) was false, I say it’s exciting that hunters get to face off against these beautiful predators. In fact, I think the hunting season should be taken one step further.

Casperson claimed that these wolves were a threat to children and the people living in the UP, and though his story was fictionalized, it is true wolves were spotted in people’s backyards, and, though it hasn’t happened yet, wolves theoretically could attack people living in the UP. But if Casperson and other Michiganders are worried about the danger a couple of wolves could pose to the citizen of the UP, just think what danger other people pose to the citizens of the UP. So you’re worried wolves are going to attack and kill you and/or your children? Well, other people are a danger to you and your children! A child is more likely to be kidnapped and killed by a human being than they are to be killed by a wolf--in fact, there have been only two instances of someone dying from a wolf attack in North America in the past 13 years.

But when was the last time someone in Michigan killed someone else? Ac-

cording to Michigan Department of Human Health, in 2010, 786.5 per every 100,000 people died in Michigan from a variety of causes. Of those 786.5 people, 6.4 out of every 100,000 of these deaths are due to homicide.

Statistically, another person will kill you before a wolf can get to you.

So you think the wolf population is getting a little big? Last time I checked, the world population was 7.125 billion and Michigan’s population was 9.883 million. That’s a lot of people, and humanity has been off the endangered species list for some time now. I think the human population of Michigan needs to be culled a bit before all those pesky humans suck up all the state’s natural resources, destroy the remaining vegetation, pollute that fresh UP air and start showing up in daycares, snarling at helpless children.

Petition your senators. Explain that the human population, for the greater good, must be reduced so we can all sleep a little better at night.

File your teeth down to points, buy a big game rifle and call yourself General Zaroff. Why shouldn’t you get to hunt the most dangerous game?

Options for housing should be available to all students, all the time

By Paris Close Culture Editor In case you’ve been living under a rock, or beneath piles of homework, as I have, or just simply haven’t heard anything of it at all, there has been a ton of hubbub going around campus concerning housing during times when the entire campus is closed.

As you may know, when campus is closed (namely for breaks), Aquinas usually offers students the option to request residency on campus for a charge of $12/night (but exempts athletes, student workers and international students). However, this option is not entirely extended for the most daunting season of the year: winter.

What does that mean?

On Friday, December 20, at 6 p.m., the entire campus shuts down for winter break and will not open its doors until nearly two weeks later, on Thursday, January 2 (only a week away from the spring semester). This means during those two weeks of not being

allowed on campus, students must arrange transportation back home or find lodgings elsewhere.

Despite my feelings for having to pay such a costly amount, it beats having to slumber out in the shivering cold.

Unfortunately, this is what happened to one student, who is now leading an admirable petition for those, like herself, to never have to endure such hazardous living conditions again by proposing residential assistance for future winter breaks to come.

For sake of discretion and redundancy, I assume you’ve read or heard about the advocate behind this movement and will stand by her.

I am one among many of the ineligibles to be exempt from the fees and conditions and feel it is unjust to be marginalized in such a way. In fact, it is nepotistic and borderline discriminatory to be ignored like this. Who’s to say that athletes, student workers and international students are the only individuals allowed accommodation?

And freely, at that.

What about students from out of state or those living hours away? Or those having jobs in the city who cannot afford to commute back home for two weeks for risk of losing said job?

Or, more disturbingly, students who have no home to go to?

Sadly, I do not think we have been considered enough and this system is in dire need of renovation.

Certainly I am not insisting facilities be open to any and everyone with these issues without pay, but perhaps a happy medium can be met. I am sure there are students reading this message, right this instant, facing the same dilemma as me, who would not mind meeting such fees if it were offered to them.

These are serious concerns and should be answered accordingly.

Though the petition may seem far overdue, it’s either now or never.

So I am standing behind the advocate who’s pushing for change now rather than not at all, and I hope you will too.

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Movies: More squad members added to The Avengers sequel

Television: Taylor Swift to perform at Victoria Secret’s Fashion Show

Music: Lily Allen mocks Miley Cyrus in new single “Hard Out Here”

E l i z a b e t h O l s e n a n d A a r o n Ta y l o r Johnson (of Kick-Ass) are just a few faces among many to be added to the cast of The Avengers: Age of Ultron. Olsen and Johnson will play Magneto’s children, the Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver. The Marvel epic is due for release in 2015.

T-Swizzle jumps back into the spotlight, setting up to perform at the 2013 VS Fashion Show at the Lexington Armory.

Swift will strut her stuff alongside the half-naked models of VS and belt out some of her girl-power tunes. Catch the event on CBS December 10.

If you like what you hear in Allen’s latest tune, you must check out the scandalous music video. If you haven’t already, here is a hint for what lies in store for you: lots of twerkin’, crotch-grabbin’ and a seemly subliminal blow to Cyrus’s and Robin Thicke’s egos.

“Sexier” Men Alive paris close | culture editor Leave it up to the good ol’ people of superficial America to elect the Sexiest Man Alive, and the following credentials are a must-have: a killer smile, flawless face but more specifically, the perfect bod. In other words, not your average Joe. Combine all three of these “magnificent” elements together and you have yourself every woman’s dreamboat, every man’s gymspiration and every teenage girl’s poster-boy. Following suit, these men will join the league of other wanted hunks, welcomed by the warm, touchy-feely hands of People Magazine.

During one slow night at the library, I decided to Google the phrase, “Sexiest Men Alive,” on Google Images, which only validated my suspicions on just how pretentious a nation we have actually become.

Or have we always been this way?

I suppose that question is best left unanswered.

Despite my obsession with pop culture, I had never been too keen on People or its content either. But that made me all the more curious and so I could not help but sift through their archives to see who else had been awarded the coveted title over the years: Channing Tatum (‘12), Bradley Cooper (‘11), Ryan Reynolds (‘10) and Hugh Jackman (‘08). These were all faces I was definitely familiar with, and instinctively, I approved them all!

I mean, I am not going to deny just how attractive these men actually are but the pattern I noticed was unmistakable and a shallow one at that. Of course, the sense of diversity is sparse, seeing as Denzel Washington has been the only face to stick out like a sore thumb among his fair-skinned brethren since his induction, nearly two decades ago, in 1996.

However, my concern is not with the lack of a diversity initiative, but with who they award the title to.

Let’s face it, not every man on the planet—since we’re talking about the “sexiest alive,” here—has these qualities. We have not all achieved the sculpted physique of Jackman, such unblemished skin like Reynolds or the unimaginable celebrity status of Adam Levine, who is rumored to be this year’s latest inductee into the magazine’s hall of handsome men.

Nonetheless, we wannabe famous, go-getter men out here look up to these icons. We envy them, as People has so cleverly constructed us to at the event of the annual announcement.

I’d be playing a losing game if I were to complain about this message.

So... if you can’t beat em’, join em’, right?

Still though, I don’t see enough appeal in The Voice judge to crown him the “sexiest,” but I do not speak for all of America either. Granted, he is charming and quite the looker with a decent amount of scruff but calling him the “Sexiest Man Alive” is about as much an exaggeration as the title insists by itself.

Getting back to that last thought, though, it would be interesting to have the ruling opinion, or at least some pull on the final decision anyway. In that case, let’s explore this idea with a few faces I had in mind to replace Levine’s own. I promise, I won’t let you down!

And so, your nominees for People’s “Sexiest Man Alive” of 2013 are: Ryan Gosling: His charm and oceanic-blue eyes have the power to convert an entire sea of Beliebers alone.

Just about everyone swoons at the very mention of his name, but disappointingly, he has not been put on for the title.

Josh Bowman: How the hell did Bowman get oversighted by Levine?

Okay, I am a little biased because I’ve been latched onto Revenge so strongly.

Either way, Bowman is a brunette, boardwalking babe, and his consideration is long overdue.

Drake: Drake’s handsomeness is just totally unfair and so is his talent: smile (check!), charisma (check!) and who could resist that hypnotizing voice of his (check, check!)? God bless Canada for this gorgeous man.

As fun as that was, what’s done is done and I’d hate to sound like a whiner. Congrats Levine! If the rumors are true, may your cover be as much eyecandy as your Cosmo UK spread from 2011!

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THE SAINT |WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2013

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

>>justin bieber

Model Tati Neves told the UK Sun, the Biebs was “unforgettable” in bed, remarking on their alleged rendezvous in Brazil. Hold on, it gets weirder.

Shortly after, video footage exposing a half-naked Bieber was supposedly leaked by Neves’ now-former friend.

Thor: The Dark World lacks Loki

Missing the mark: Thor: The Dark World has fancy features but flakes on anticipated brilliance.

By Stephanie Giluk Editor-in-Chief Thor: The Dark World, or, as it should be called, Thor: Not Enough Loki, is a fun, entertaining romp through Asgard that ultimately lacks much substance.

The movie opens by introducing us to the movie’s bland Big Bad—the Dark Elves, led by Malekith (an unrecognizable Christopher Eccleston), who

want to bring darkness back to the universe using the Aether (pronounced ether), which is a Thing That Does Bad Stuff and is of Great Power much like the tesseract, seen in Captain America and The Avengers, was a Thing That Does Bad Stuff and is of Great Power.

In other words, the Aether is another building block Marvel is using to craft its mega-franchise, a hint at villains and plots to come more than it is a real threat in TDW.

One of the unfortunate downfalls of the highly entertaining Marvel franchise movies is their forgettable and boring villains who could easily all be interchanged with one another. The advantage the Thor movies have over other Marvel movies is that they contain the one exception to the boring villain rule: Loki.

The movie, already benefitting from funny, snappy dialogue (courtesy of screenwriters Christopher Yost, Chris-

the sky/ Let them know that we’re still

Culture Editor Paris Close

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

topher Markus, Stephen McFeely and a rumored Joss Whedon), really comes to life when Loki, imprisoned for the crimes he committed in The Avengers, spars verbally and physically with his adopted brother Thor. Not only do the sass levels go off the charts when Loki’s around, but the deeper conflict between the brothers, fueled by sibling rivalry and betrayal, rises up out of the murky plot. Tom Hiddleston, as Loki, is clearly having great fun, playing the villain with the perfect amount of sly evil, humor and seething rage. It almost seems unfair that the hero isn’t as interesting as the villain, despite what Chris Hemsworth, playing Thor with the right amount of charisma and strength to make us believe he could really be the god of thunder, does with the character. But what can you really do when your brother’s the god of mischief?

The video-game-style battles Thor fights in a beautifully rendered Asgard and other fantastic realms are thrilling and epic, but his love story with Jane Foster, (Natalie Portman, a bit underwhelming) the jilted astrophysicist, is treated as an aside. Jane plays the damsel in distress (but she’s also good at Science™! So it’s okay!) so Thor can smash things with his hammer and think about the cost of ruling, but their relationship never seems entirely authentic.

TDW is highly enjoyable but only excels when Loki and Thor are together. Be sure to stay for the mid-credit and after-credit scenes, as the former is really weird and the latter gives the movie its emotional closure.

Artist Spotlight:

Avril Lavigne still reigns as the princess of pop-rock rock ‘n roll.”

Following that same vivacious energy is the lead single on the album “Here’s To Never Growing Up,” delivering a playful meaning while reminding us of those high school days when, no matter what clique you were a part of, “Girlfriend” had everyone up and dancing.

Although many of us hardly consider those days of acne-proned skin, awkward dance functions and heartbreak as a nostalgic pastime, “17” captures the COURTESY DARYL TAN gist of adolescence: laying out on roofReturn to rock: Avril Lavigne’s fifth album screams tops, smoking cigs nostalgia. and drinking soda on those warm summer nights.

By Paris Close “Let Me Go,” a powerful duet with Culture Editor husband Chad Kroeger of Nickelback, Avril Lavigne’s self-titled album flushes out tears of love and resenttakes a turn for the good, the bad and ment, as the newlyweds are “breaking even has us asking, “What the hell?” free from those memories” that had at some points. Since spray paint- damaged their past. This tender testaing the music scene as the pint-sized, ment is also translated in songs “Hello band-T wearing 15-year-old with a big Heartache” and “Falling Fast,” unlockvoice and even bigger stories to tell, ing that former vulnerability the “What the punkster has not only changed her the Hell” singer is known for.

Speaking of “What the hell,” you fashion sense but the direction of her will definitely demand and explanation music as well.

Trading in her angsty tear-jerkers from Lavigne once you hear the unthat essentially made her the phenom seemly “Bad Girl” with Marilyn Monshe is today in exchange for a more ex- roe. In the song, the singer sings explicperimental (and rather perky) sound in itly about being exactly what the title earlier records, her fifth proves most says, a “bad girl.” Strangely enough, the singer’s take on sexy sounds forced tentative.

The singer rightfully vindicates and is unnecessary since her attitude is and solidifies her title, still rocking her hot on its own. “Hello Kitty” is just as skulled-out tiara, as the “Mother----in’ tasteless and embarrassing. The childlike chorus does not assist in making Princess” of pop punk music.

Say what you want about Lavigne’s this song appealing either, as Lavigne new-found pop personality. She’s still sings: “Hello Kitty, you’re so pretty… rock n’ roll, and celebrates her rockstar ka ka ka kawaii.”

Aside from the scary Manson colroots in “Rock N Roll.” The tune shares lab and the misplaced kitty cat tune, the same foot-stomping action heard in Queen’s notorious American anthem Avril Lavigne is solid. If you are like “We Will Rock You” and it is merely by most fans, yearning for that old school happenstance that the rockstress chants Lavigne with only a slight tang of a similar free-spirited verse: “What if mainstream motivation, you will love you and I/ just put up a middle finger to the rocker’s latest record.

COURTESY JAY MAIDMENT

COURTESY FLICKR

Jukebox the Ghost

COURTESY SHERVIN LAINEZ

Just dance: The music of D.C. natives Jukebox the Ghost will have you groovin’.

By Chuck Hyde Staff Writer Artist: Jukebox the Ghost Genre: Piano-rock, Indie-pop Current Album: Safe Travels Comparisons: Ben Folds, They Might be Giants Popular Tracks: “Somebody,” “Schizophrenia” & “Hold It In” When it comes to music, some bands are so focused on flashy production that their music has no substance. Jukebox the Ghost has no such problem. They combine simple guitar riffs, catchy drum beats,and bright piano to produce infectious poppy music that spreads happiness.

The band initially formed in Washington, D.C. at George Washington University and is composed of Ben Thornewill, Tommy Siegel and Jesse Kristin. Their particular brand of piano rock is charged with emotion, though uncertain about what exactly that emotion may be.

More often than not, their music is filled with joy, even if it masks a deeper, more complex, meaning.

Their song “Good Day,” taken from their third and newest effort, Safe Travels, for example, could easily be understood as a happy tune but it’s actually a sarcastic look at whether or not people are actually happy when they say they are. The album is probably their best yet. Each song is well-written with beautiful piano pieces, bright guitar chords and the occasional riff. Other highlights from the album include “Adulthood” and

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“At Last.”

Much like the latter, themes of wonder continue, though their lyrical content is about as varied as one can get. Another tune from their third installment, “Dead,” fittingly enough, ponders the experience of death and wonders what it is like to be “stuck in a dull dream about nothing that never ends.”

It is much more somber than most of their other songs, which shows the versatility that makes them so enjoyable to listen to. They, of course, have obligatory songs about wanting to find someone. “Somebody” is a great example which, while expressing familiar themes, does it in a catchy and addictive fashion. You’ll often find yourself humming along to the chorus, and will be stuck in your head intermittently at first listen.

Their previous two albums also have some well put together songs.

Before Safe Travels, they would often relate narratives of a sci-fi nature intermixed with personal notes. One of the band’s most popular songs is from their second album, Everything Under the Sun. Entitled “Schizophrenia,” the tune is a fast-paced song that is, like most of their other music, irresistibly catchy.

Their music inspires adventure, contemplation, and joy. Overall, Jukebox the Ghost is a band great at getting foots tapping and heads nodding, and provide a nice little ditty for whatever mood the listener is in.

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

6

CULTURE

THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2013

It’s about time you see About Time

By Jessa Challa The Saint Reporter If you had the power to travel back in time, how would you use it and for what purpose?

When Tim finds out he can travel back to any moment in time at his own expense, he decides to use his talent to find the love of his life.

From the writer of War Horse, Richard Curtis curates About Time, a witty and incredibly charming story set in London, focusing on the essence of love, happiness and family.

The story follows the graceless protagonist, 21-year-old Tim Lake (played by Domhnall Gleeson of the Harry Potter series) who comes to realize his striking ability to defy both space and time. Before this revelation, Tim was nothing but a shy, awkward and borderline boring character. That is until his father enlightens him on his inherited ability to time travel. After testing his newfound powers, Tim’s adventures (and misadventures) through time begin.

Rachel McAdams plays the role of the patient and kind Mary, with whom Tim falls head over heels for.

She is insecure and quirky but an adorable match for Tim. Though a little cliché, the two characters share a believable and completely endearing relationship that will make audiences fall in love all over again as well.

Despite the film’s strong focus

on the essential aspects of love, another thriving theme in this romance is family.

A s the film progresses and the relationship between the two l o ve b i r d s evolves, the attention to family, COURTESY UNIVERSAL PICTURES however, is forgot- Time flies: Richard Curtis touches hearts with a flick too adorable ten. Short- for its own good. ly after turning 21, Tim abandons his home Mary. The film stands out because for law-school and a life with Mary. of its powerful message: choosing to He becomes so wrapped up with his see the beauty in life and living it to love for Mary that he becomes oblivi- the fullest because time is of the esous to the tragic happenings going on sence.

When all is said and done, the with his family. Despite his efforts to film is a touching, love-filled roreadjust and alter the sad events of mance perfect to see with family or his past, even Tim comes to realize that some things are just out of his your significant other during the upcoming holiday season. control and are destined to happen.

About Time possesses a genuine and sincere atmosphere which emanates from the love between Tim and

Fall Jazz Night

By Annie DeSmith The Saint Reporter The AQ jazz band gave yet another fantastic performance Thursday evening, November 14, with Dr. Paul Brewer playing the piano and various soloists sharing the spotlight.

The band performed several classic Jazz pieces from the AQ Jazz Jam in early October, such as Oliver Nelson’s “Stolen Moments,” Harold Arlen’s “Come Rain Or Come Shine,” and the old band favorite, Horace Silver’s “Sister Sadie,” as well as many other fresh renditions.

The concert took place in the Kretschmer Recital Hall and was a more formal event than the Jazz Jam, which was held in the Cook Carriage House and was, as Mathematics Professor Dr. Yashowanto Ghosh described, “reminiscent of the 1950s coffee houses ... in which jazz took shape and grew.”

The Fall Jazz Night performance was a more traditional concert, with band members set up onstage with their instruments as spectators watch from the auditorium seats await the musical spectacle.

Although the setting was formal, the concert itself felt very laid back.

The music created a very calm and relaxed atmosphere for its guests, and there was a lot of casual conversation and interaction between both the band members onstage and between Dr. Brewer, as well as the spectators in the crowd.

The audience was small but en-

thusiastic, clapping after each solo performance and bobbing their heads to the catchy beat. The concert was in no way flashy or visually distracting, which kept the audience interested and allowed them to reflect on the music instead of watching what was happening on stage.

Songs performed that night included: Oliver Nelson’s tricky but beautifully phrased “Jazz Bug,” Freddie Hubbard’s mellow “Sky Dive,” Wayne Shorter’s smooth and slow “Infant Eyes,” Kenny Dorham’s “Blue Bossa,” which included an impressive and unique drum solo, and even Thad Jones’ “A Child Is Born,” one of two songs in the lineup that contained a vocal solo.

The finale, “Sister Sadie” gave many of the musicians the chance to perform their own solos, showcasing each member’s talent and recognizing all components of the group while still representing the band as whole.

From a front row view, you could really sense the passion Dr. Brewer and the jazz band had for the music they played. It was inspiring to see a group of individuals so set on keeping an older genre of music alive.

The tone of the group, partnered with interesting and well-performed musical pieces and talented musicians, made the event all the more enjoyable.

Performances by the AQ jazz band are definitely recommended for anyone who has an appreciation for music and a love for the smooth, flowing tones of classical jazz.

Taking the art out of ARTPOP

By Stephanie Giluk Editor-in-Chief

Lady Gaga’s third studio album, ARTPOP, is much more pop-ish than it is arty. The singer, who began her career in 2008 with The Fame, started out as a winking parodist and clever songwriter, poking fun at the outrageousness of fame and pop culture with wild outfits and weird behavior.

But it’s hard to keep reinventing yourself when everyone else is too— Gaga doesn’t seem all that outrageous now that we’ve been all Miley-ed out.

And her album, though predictably fun, doesn’t seem very fresh when there are other pop-rock singers and songwriters releasing albums and doing what Gaga tries to do with ARTPOP just a little bit better.

The majority of the songs on ARTPOP explore the nature and artifice of fame or sexual desire while over-processed electronic dance music thuds in the background. That’s not to say the album doesn’t have its high points; it does, but they are few and far between.

Songs like “Aura,” “G.U.Y.” and “Sexxx Dreams” are raunchy without being all that sexy, with predictable synths and beats that make them unremarkable. “Do What U Want,” however, is one of the few tracks that manages to be genuinely sexy without being corny, thanks to R. Kelly’s smooth assist, Gaga’s growly vocals and an retro R&B melody.

“Swine,” probably the most musically complex song on the album, has Gaga singing a kiss-off with relish,

with lyrics like, “you’re just a pig inside a human body/squealer, squealer, squeal out, you’re so disgusting,” while the track wails and grinds around her voice.

The slowest song on the album, “Dope,” is indeed a dopey love song that has Gaga comparing her lover to her pot stash (“I need you more than dope,” goes the chorus). It manages to be both cheesy and kind of sweet at the same time. If only there were more songs on the album that let Gaga really sing—her voice is powerful enough to carry ballads if she were to write more of them.

The other song on ARTPOP about pot, “Mary Jane Holland,” proves Gaga has the good sense to poke fun at herself: “I know that mom and dad think I’m a mess,/but it’s alright because I am rich as piss.” Like many other songs on the album, it has an entertainingly dancey beat without being all that inventive.

The album closes with “Gypsy” and “Applause,” the latter of which has been played so often on the radio I can’t tell if I like it or not anymore.

“Gypsy,” however, is one of the more personal tracks on the album, examining the transient nature of performing and fame. Gaga wistfully sings, “I don’t wanna be along forever, but I can be tonight/I don’t wanna be alone forever, but I love gypsy life” over an upbeat electronic dancehall melody.

Gaga wants to create a pop album worthy of art, but she’s aimed a little too high with ARTPOP.

The Wanted follows up with an epic party record

COURTESY DANIEL KARLSSON

Rumor has it: The band gets you ready for the club with Word of Mouth.

By Paris Close Culture Editor After nearly two years of production and releasing a prolonged list of singles, The Wanted have finally answered the prayers of many anxious fans with a new record. The UK quintet’s third studio album Word of Mouth, released this month, proves that these crooners were tailored for the spotlight. But does the record give the same impression?

Nevertheless, a bigger question remains: can The Wanted compete with fellow boy-banders like One Direction and newcomers Emblem3?

It’s no secret that these guys have had rivalries with the boys of One Direction, but let’s hope that same energy is translated into what they so confidently told MTV News was their “best album yet.”

The record gets off to a slow start with “The Middle,” a song that expresses the one true testament of love: commitment. However, a song of such meaning is conveyed rather simply. Verses like, “I love the way we fight and stay up all night/ and the way you look in the morning light,” have been recycled by too many artists already.

One thing we can say about the

boy band is that they make awesome songs for both the radio and for those times when you just need to ditch the books and head out to your favorite nightclubs. That is exactly what comes to mind when you hear songs like “Running Out of Reasons” and “Summer Alive,” which does just that, keeping the summer feel alive with its hypnotic beat and an pulsing Congo rhythm that sets in about midway.

Once you’ve gotten about halfway into the record, you are given the impression that the band does well following up the successes of their raving tunes “Glad You Came” and “Chasing the Sun,” but only a few of the ballads supplement their efforts.

“Heartbreak Story,” for example, has an auspicious start, mimicking a mood often invoked in Mikky Ekko’s piano-ballads.

Nearing the records end is “Glow In The Dark, the best track on the album aside from “Walks Like Rihanna,” which has a lot of radio potential and could also be a club contender.

The former hums an ethereal sound that seems like it was produced by Kaskade or Deadmau5, both of which are masters at making house music.

It’s been a long time coming, and the release of Word of Mouth was well overdue. But make no mistake, fans will get everything they would have wanted from The Wanted’s newest record: surprises and even more smash singles are sure to come.

12 Years a Slave makes its way into our hearts and the Oscar season

By Nathan Gimby Staff Writer 12 Years a Slave is a difficult film to criticize. The performances are, for the most part, phenomenal. The cinematography is bold and artful, if somewhat lacking in subtlety. And 12 Years paints a brutally accurate portrait of one of humanity’s most egregious violations of justice and equality. But all these factors come together to make a film that is somehow never quite as thought provoking or emotionally stimulating as it should be. It is a very good film, it just never seems to become more than the sum of its high quality parts.

12 Years is based on the true story of Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a free man in the 1840’s who is tricked and sold into slavery. Following Northup’s journey from one owner to the next, 12 Years is a blunt, historical rendering of Old South slavery complete with extreme physical abuse, religious hypocrisy and unabashed racism. For those familiar with American slavery’s sordid history, nothing here will come as a surprise, but it can still be a very difficult film to watch.

Steve McQueen’s directing revels in brute physical trauma and emo-

tional extremes. McQueen employs an uncomfortably lingering camera, forcing the audience to take in all the passion, despair and pain of the characters on screen. The camera often zooms in close for maximum detail and effect, eliminating any distractions.

It is certainly a powerful tool but one that McQueen employs with such frequency that it begins to lose its bite.

He still manages to produce quite the tour de force of emotional imagery. His juxtaposition of slavery’s horrors with everyday life and the beautiful flora of the south are particularly striking.

McQueen’s directing style in 12 Years would have been wasted, however, without the all-around talent of the cast. Ejiofor handles the difficult task of portraying complex emotions through expression and body language quite well. In certain extreme instances, his acting feels a bit forced but for the most part his performance is undeniably powerful. Oddly, the film’s only weak link is Brad Pitt, who seems to do little more than play himself during his brief stint on screen.

Michael Fassbender’s performance as plantation owner Edwin Epps is easily the most enticing and dynamic, simply by virtue of his character’s malCulture Editor Paris Close

ice and instability.

Plagued by alcoholism, bizarre religious zeal, and a conflicted obsession with a slave girl named Patsey (Lupita Nyong’o), Epps has a complexity that other characters, even Northup himself, seem to lack.

Ejiofor’s s u p e r b COURTESY FOX SEARCHLIGHT emotional control car- A narrative unraveled: Steve McQueen’s latest motion picture is expected to be a frontrunner at the Oscars. ries much of the film but Fassbender steals the Years is missing something. Ultimately that, but the film’s focus on physical show whenever he enters the frame. it is little more than a visceral and emo- and emotional trauma leaves audiences But even as the acting and direct- tionally charged reiteration of a widely with less to ponder than it should. ing come together with few hiccups, known narrative. As a cinematic exit’s hard to shake the feeling that 12 perience, there is nothing wrong with

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sports

page

Detroit Pistons: The Pistons are struggling to win this season

Cashing In: Fan sends Knicks player J.R. Smith $60 cash

Collaboration: Possibility of MLS team in Miami

The Detroit Pistons have had a shaky start to the 2013-2014 season. With an overall record of 3-6, the Pistons are struggling to win games. Losing their most recent game against the Lakers 114-99, the Pistons are looking to be victorious against the Atlanta Hawks on November 20.

A New York Knicks fan sent Smith $60 after the fan bet his friend he could put up more points as Smith on the video game NBA 2K13 than his friend’s Heat team could. The bet was $120 total so the fan decided to split the pot by giving Smith $60.

Miami Heat star Lebron James and former professional soccer player David Beckham are looking to bring a MLS team back to Miami.

Beckham approached James with the idea and James expressed interested in potentially joining Beckham. Though no decision has been made yet, it is something to look out for.

The Detroit Red Wings have had a November many would like to forget. While many of the games were lost in overtime or shootout, the Wings are now in fourth place in the Eastern Conference. Leading the team in points is captain Henrik Zetterberg who has an impressive 21 points in 19 games. Not far behind him is Russian sniper Pavel Datsyuk, who has 20. Aside from Zetterberg and Datsyuk, the Wings are struggling to score goals. While Daniel Alfredsson is third in scoring with 14 points, the next leading scorer is defensemen Niklas Kronwall.

Many of the teams’ top six forwards aren’t producing, which is why the Wings have been busy calling up and sending down players from their affiliate, the Grand Rapids Griffins, to try and get the puck rolling. The Wings have three rookies on their team in Joakim Andersson, Tomas Tatar and Danny DeKeyser, with Andersson being the most experienced in terms of games played. An-

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WHAT TO WATCH

>> MEN’S BaSKETBALL

The Aquinas men’s basketball team is starting off the season right. With a 2-1 record, the Saints have what it takes to be successful this season.

With a combination of returning players, transfer students, and new talent, the Saints are looking to do big things this season. The Saints’ next home game is Tuesday, November 25.

Fall sports wrap-up

Detroit Red Wings

By Taylor Hodges The Saint Reporter

dersson is ninth on the team, with six points in 19 games. While Andersson has exhibited offensive capabilities throughout his professional career, he is more of a bottom six forward that provides hard hits with some scoring. Tatar, who was Detroit’s second round pick in 2009, has been in and out of the lineup this season after only posting three points in eleven games.

Tatar, while short in stature, is a proven scorer and has gotten better every season. DeKeyser, who was a free agent signing out of Western Michigan University, has been playing a more defensive game than his usual offensive one. Having just six points in 19 games, DeKeyser has been defensively responsible around the net and as a result is a plus five this season.

The Wings have upcoming games against the Carolina Hurricanes, Ottawa Senators and Buffalo Sabres all of which are Eastern Conference opponents. With all three teams being in the lower half of the conference, look for the Wings to get some scoring chances and get back on track to winning games.

Cross country to compete at Nationals, soccer teams fall in semi-finals to UNO

Aquinas basketball COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS

Finishing strong: Sophomore Zach Stepanovich and senior Brendan Molony run for the Saints during the regular season. Both men will be running at Nationals for the Saints.

By Alyssa Frese Sports Editor

COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS

Get your head in the game: Junior Alison Heberlein dribbles the ball in home court action. Heberlein and the Saints are undefeated this season, with an impressive 5-0 record. The Saints play their next home game on Tuesday, November 26, against Concordia.

By Alyssa Frese Sports Editor The Aquinas women’s basketball team is off to a phenomenal start.

With an undefeated record of 5-0, the Saints have definitely hit their stride early in the season. With seniors Carly Bardwell, Marisa Marx, Taelor Sanders, Nicci Thomas, Jenna Brower and Lindsey Karpowicz, the Saints have outstanding leadership and a team that is already very familiar with each other.

With much of the season left to the play, the outlook is very promising for the Saints. “We just beat the number 16 ranked team in the nation, so we are feeling pretty good about that,” said junior Alison Heberlein. “Our goals of becoming league champs and going to Nationals I what drives our practices. We have a lot of potential this year as a team.” The Saints will play next Thursday, November 21, at Indiana Tech.

The Aquinas men’s basketball team is off to a winning start as well with a 2-1 record. Their most recent game was played against Spring Arbor on November 16, where the Saints won 71-63. Senior Brett Pfahler led the Saints, scoring 17 points. Senior Kolin Kazen followed Pfahler, scoring 16 points, and senior Austin Semple put up 14 points.

The Saints are determined to finish stronger than the previous season. “The team is starting out with

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THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2013

a more aggressive mind set. After losing 11 games last year by three points or less, we knew we couldn’t let that happen again. Our mindset is no longer to compete but to finish ball games and win, close or not,” said senior Jon Hornak.

The Saints have practiced hard and are ready for a successful season.

With a combination of returning players, transfer students, and freshmen, the Saints have a completely different team this season. “Our team has a lot of depth at the wing position, we have three seasoned seniors at the spot and because of that they are even taking on the role of playing new positions to help the team out,” said Hornak.

“We are also just a great group of guys who get along well on and off the floor. Coach has said we are the most coachable team he has ever been a part of.” The Saints will play tonight at Indiana Tech.

The Saint’s JV men’s basketball team is off to a rough start. With a record of 0-4, the Saints are coming up short in games. Instead of being discouraged, the Saints are learning from these losses are continuing to improve every game. “I think we need to continue to work hard and get better every day in practice as well as work on playing team defense,” said freshman Dionte Williams. “If we work hard, the wins will come.” The Saints will play next on Monday, November 25, at Siena Heights.

Sports Editor Alyssa Frese

The women’s soccer team had an impressive season, with a 12-6-1 overall record and a WHAC record of 6-2-1. The Saints played hard during the regular season and were more than prepared to play in the quarterfinals game against Cornerstone. The Saints won 3-1, with goals scored by senior Elizabeth Vaughan, sophomore Casey Westveer and junior Melissa Hogan.

The Saints then played in the semi-finals against Northwestern Ohio, where they ended up losing 1-0.

With only one senior graduating, the Saints will have an almost all returning roster for the 2014 season. “Overall we had a good season. We played well as a team and really stepped up our pressure defense,” said junior Jackie Gipe. “We wouldn’t have been as successful if not for every single player on our team. “ The team has a lot to celebrate after this well-played season, but they need to look to the future as well. “A good team can always work on improving some aspect of the game. In our case I think we can improve on

putting passes together and playing the ball out of the back,” said Gipe.

“On the offensive side, we scored a lot this season but we can always work on finishing as well. Our goals for next season are to win the WHAC and move on to the next level in tournament play. We want to be the best and we don’t want to settle for anything less than that.”

The men’s soccer team had a very successful season as well, finishing with an overall record of 15-4-1 and an overall WHAC record of 6-3-1.

The Saints played their quarterfinals game at home against Marygrove. The Saints won 3-1, with two goals scored by sophomore Aldony Mendez and the third goal scored by senior Tucker Hogarth. The Saints then advanced to the semi-finals, where they traveled to Northwesten Ohio where the Saints played hard but ultimately lost 3-1, with the lone goal being scored by senior Jonathan Spencer.

“It was difficult for us to adjust to the field that was covered in snow.

We are used to playing on turf and the field was muddy and slick. We played our best but that ended up not being enough,” said freshman AJ Broughton. With only four players graduat-

ing, the Saints can expect to build off the skill they acquired this season.

“Anything is possible next season, but ultimately we hope to win in the semi-finals and go to Nationals,” said Broughton.

The Aquinas women’s volleyball team played an excellent season as well, with an overall record of 25-10 and a WHAC record of 7-4. The Saints finished the season strong, winning the first round of the WHAC Tournament against UM Dearborn at home on Wednesday, November 13. The Saints then traveled to Livonia, Michigan where they beat Northwestern Ohio in the WHAC Quarterfinals 3-2.

On Saturday, November 16, the Saints played Madonna in the WHAC Semifinals and ultimately lost 3-0. “I thought we had a very good season.

We were all very close on the team, like family, and I think that was something that helped us play so well and go so far,” said freshman Michaela Ryan. With only three seniors graduating, the Saints have the makings for another successful season next year.

“We have a lot of potential. Our goals for next season would be to keep getting better and better and to win our conference,” said Ryan.

The women’s cross country team had an outstanding season. Finishing third out of 10 teams at the WHAC Championship, the Saints are sending two runners to Nationals in Lawrence, Kansas, on November 23: junior Catie Rietsema and sophomore Carley Woolcott. Rietsema finished fifth overall at the WHAC Championship with a time of 18:47.51, and Woolcott finished sixth overall with a time of 18:56.09. “Carley and Catie are great role models. They inspire me to try my hardest to make it to Nationals next year,” said freshman Sydney Anderson.

The men’s cross country team had an impressive season as well.

Finishing first out of 10 teams at the WHAC Championship, the Saints will be sending their varsity team to Nationals in Lawrence, Kansas on November 23. Seven runners finished in the top ten at the WHAC Championship: seniors Dan Foley and Brendan Molony, juniors Grant Gunneson and Stephen Glinski, and sophomores Zach Stepanovich, Jeff Cherry and Jacob Towne. The Saints have a lot to feel good about going into Nationals.

“We’re looking pretty good. We didn’t graduate a single one of our starting runners from last season so we are stronger than ever, “said freshman Adam Cichon. “We are ready to put it all out there.”

College football update

By Joe Foldenauer The Saint Reporter After suffering a loss from Michigan State, the University of Michigan Wolverines had a hard time picking themselves up when they played against the Nebraska Cornhuskers, losing 17-13.

The Wolverines, who are currently 2-3 in the Big Ten conference, now will have no chances of winning a Big Ten title for the first time since 2004. In the first quarter, the Cornhuskers made their stance against the Wolverines and established a 10-0 lead at the end of that quarter. The Wolverines defense then stopped Nebraska from scoring again until the last two minutes of the game. Unfortunately, Michigan’s offensive line was playing a terrible game, with poor protection for Gardner. They also did not open up any running lanes for their back field, which allowed only one touchdown for the Wolverines and made

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them rely on field goals for most of this game. Because of this poor protection, Devin Gardner was only able to throw for 196 yards and had a 66 percent completion on passes.

Last weekend, Michigan pulled off a miracle 27-19 win against the Northwestern Huskies in 3OT. Before the first overtime, it looked highly unlikely that the Wolverines could pull off a win. Both teams didn’t score a touchdown until overtime and Northwestern had the lead for most of the game due to poor blocking and multiple fumbles. In the 3OT Gardner was able make a five yard run to score for the Wolverines, followed by a two-point conversion, winning the game. The Wolverines will play against the Iowa Hawkeyes this Saturday.

A few weeks ago, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish suffered a tough loss to the Pittsburgh Panthers 28-21.

The Irish have had a bit of a rough season, which was especially noted in this game. Tommy Rees threw for

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two interceptions in the late fourth quarter, which only furthered Pittsburgh’s victory. Along with multiple fumbles, plus one unrecovered forced fumble, the Irish have a lot of work to do. Last weekend, the Irish had a bye week and will be playing against the BYU Cougars this Saturday in South Bend.

The Michigan State Spartans continue to dominate on the field with their victory against the Nebraska Cornhuskers last Saturday.

The Spartans beat the Cornhuskers 41-28. Quarterback Connor Cook was 15 for 31 for 193 yards. Running back Jeremy Langford ran 32 times for 151 yards and scored two touchdowns while wide receiver Keith Mumphrey caught a 27 yard pass from Cook when the Cornhuskers came within six points for the Spartans. The Spartans will be playing against the Northwestern Wildcats on the road this Saturday.

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THE SAINT |WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20,2013

Grand Rapids Griffins Introducing a few new faces

By Taylor Hodges The Saint Reporter The Grand Rapids Griffins had a close game with the Milwaukee Admirals last Wednesday. Scoring the lone goal for the Griffins was Mitch Callahan off an assist from Andrej Nestrasil. This proved to be just short, as the Milwaukee Admirals scored two goals for a final score of 1-2. Nestrasil, who split time with the Griffins and Toledo Walleye of the ECHL the past two seasons, is set to play his first full season with the Griffins and has posted five points in 14 games so far.

Long time veteran of the Griffins locker room Cory Emmerton is off to a good start, having accumulated nine points in his 12 games. Emmerton has been playing with the Griffins since the 2007-08 season and has seen time with the Red Wings. Seeing as how the St. Thomas, Ontario native is approaching the age where he should be fully developed as a player, the Red Wings will have to decide whether he fits in with their plans of moving forward or trade

him if they are headed in a different direction.

There will be a couple new faces wearing the Griffins’ jersey in the upcoming week. Patrick Eaves, Luke Glendening, Jordin Tootoo and Xavier Ouellet were all assigned to the Griffins within the last two days.

Eaves and Tootoo have the most NHL experience having played most of their careers in the NHL. In 175 games with Detroit, Eaves has posted 51 points and was most proficient as a energy type player.

Much like Eaves, Tootoo is also an energy player and has posted eight points in 50 games with the Wings after being signed as a free agent in 2012.

The Griffins are set to face the Admirals again on Wednesday, Nov. 20, at their home arena. Fans can present their Grand Rapids Public Library or Kent District Library card at the box office to save seven dollars off a lower level ticket. The Griffins are then on the road for games on November 22 and 23 against the Iowa Wild and Chicago Wolves.

Senior Carly Bardwell excels on the court and in the classroom

By Alyssa Frese Sports Editor Being a student athlete is not easy, but senior Carly Bardwell makes it look like it could be. Bardwell has been playing basketball since she was in first grade. “I joined basketball because my parents encouraged me to try it. I started in the first grade in a YMCA league and I have been playing ever since,” said Bardwell.

Bardwell’s parents have definitely played a large role in her basketball career. However, Bardwell credits her high school basketball coach as the person who has been the most influential.

“My high school played a huge role in my career. I was on varsity all four years of high school. My coach was there for me on and off the court. School was always a priority and he stressed how important school was,” said Bardwell.

Bardwell’s love for the game led to her college career.

An Allendale native, Bardwell loved the idea of being close to home and getting to take advantage of the science program Aquinas has to offer.

“I loved the school aspect of Aquinas.

They have a great science program which was what I was looking for and I love the campus. It’s nice being close to home,” said Bardwell. School has continued to remain something that has been important to Bardwell in her Aquinas career. Last year, Bardwell was named an Academic All-American.

“I never realized how hard it would

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be to be a student athlete. It is a lot of work. I follow a rigorous schedule,” said Bardwell. Bardwell not only excels in the classroom, but she excels on the court as a player and as a role model to the other players.

“Carly is the type of player that every team needs.

She does all of the little things that sometimes don’t get noticed in the game statistics. Her game has evolved throughout her career at AQ and I’m looking for her strong leadership to be a major factor in the success of this year’s team. We are trying to take one game at a time and to focus on the little things that we can control,” said AquiCOURTESY CARLY BARDWELL nas women’s basJump: This is Bardwell’s final season playing for the Saints. ketball head coach Linda Nash. “Carly is a competitor in every sense of the word. Whether she’s is in leagues or for fun. I think I would battling for a rebound or diving for a enjoy coaching. I guess I will see where loose ball into the bleachers, she always it takes me when the time comes,” said gives it her all. She was elected by her Bardwell.

Bardwell is currently playing in team mates as a captain this year and her leadership has been exemplary. her final season for the Saints. She is deShe brings so much energy to floor and termined to win and plans on finishing she has so many different dimensions strong. “From the moment Carly came to Aquinas College I knew she was goto her game.”

Bardwell maintains that strong ing to be one of the hardest workers leadership in the classroom at Aquinas in the program,” said Nash. “Because as well. Bardwell is a Biology major of her toughness, she exudes so much with a Pre-Vet emphasis. She plans to confidence for our younger players that attend veterinary school after she grad- are still learning the system. She has uates in May. She would ideally like to become a mentor and I see her helping her team mates on a daily basis.” attend Michigan State University.

Bardwell and the Saints are undeBardwell has been involved with feated with a 5-0 record. Anything is basketball for such a long time that it would be impossible for her to not be possible this season with Bardwell as involved in some way post-Aquinas. “I captain. will always play the game whether it

Detroit Lions

The brightest collegiate minds in West Michigan are collaborating to solve a truly Wicked Problem.

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By Joe Foldenauer The Saint Reporter

Wege Prize is a yearly transdisciplinary design competition that gives teams of five the chance to work collaboratively, use design thinking principles, and contend for $30,000 in total cash prizes, all while helping to show the world what the future of problem solving looks like.

The Detroit Lions have claimed the number one spot in the NFC standings. A few weeks ago, Detroit played a tough game, with a close victory against the Chicago Bears 21-19.

Celebrating his 100th career game, Calvin Johnson played a great game, as he had six receptions, ran for 83 yards and had two touchdowns, one of which was in the last two minutes of the game-clinching the win for Detroit. Matthew Stafford also had a good game, completing 18 of 35 passes, three touchdowns and one interception. Reggie Bush also had a great game rushing for 105 yards off of 14 receptions. With Detroit finally being alone in the number one spot of the NFC, playoffs are looking likely.

Unfortunately, the Lions were not able to continue the short two game win streak they had when they lost this past Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers, 37-27. The first half of this game was a back and forth between Detroit and Pittsburgh. The

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first quarter of the game was a disaster for the Lions, with the Steelers establishing a first quarter 14-0 lead.

The Lions gained a 27-20 lead against the throwback Steelers. Then, during the second half, the Steelers prevented Detroit from scoring and scored three times to establish their victory. Because of this, Matthew Stafford had a tough game completing only 41 percent of his passes, with one interception and was sacked twice.

On a positive note, Stafford was able to throw for 362 yards and two touchdowns, with his first one of the game being his career 100th touchdown pass. Stafford now has 16,005 career passing yards, which is a new Detroit Lions record. Reggie Bush had a tough day as well, with 31 yards off of 12 carries. Megatron played a good game with six passes, 179 yards and two touchdowns.

Although Detroit may have lost this game, they are still ranked number one in the NFC (tied with Chicago who is also 6-4). This Sunday the Lions will be playing against the 2-8 Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Aquinas hockey

By Alyssa Frese Sports Editor The men’s hockey team is continuing to stay on top of their game.

With a record of 9-2, the Saints are doing the right things on the ice.

The Saints were on a five-game win streak that was ended by University of Louisville in their second game against Aquinas, which the Saints lost 4-3. Goals scored that game were by sophomore Kyle Jansens, who scored two goals, and freshman Corey Giffel, who scored the remaining goal. The game before, also against Louisville, was won by the Saints 4-3. Two goals were scored by senior Brent Steele and the other two goals were scored by senior Jimmy McDonagh and junior Cody Edwards.

Before facing Louisville, the Saints won one game against Notre Dame at home with a final score of 6-2, with two goals being scored by Giffel as well as goals by Edwards, Jansens, sophomore Doug Zelenka, and sophomore Justen Caudill.

“I think we are coming together

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Kendall College of Art and Design, Ferris State University Sports Editor Alyssa Frese

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really well as a team,” said freshman Graham Gates. “The team chemistry is coming into place and it is evident on the ice when we play. I think we can improve in every aspect of playing and we have the ability to improve.”

The Saints play next against Calvin College this weekend, November 23 and 24, in one game at home and one at Calvin. The Calvin Knights hold a record of this season of 11-4, so the Saints will have some tough competition. If the Saints can continue to play the way they have been playing and put in extra effort at practice as a team, then a double victory against the Knights should be attainable.

With leadership from four seniors Hugh Ingalls, Brent Steele, Christian Potter and Greg Baranyai as well as the new talent the Saints have acquire this season, a win is very possible this weekend. Communication on the ice will be key for these two victories and many more victories to come this season.