The Saint :: Issue 4

Writer Spotlight | 6

Death with Dignity Saint Reporter Natalie Przybyla explores the idea of Death with Dignity as a hot topic in society.

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Wednesday, November 5, 2014 Volume 34, Issue 4

>>NEWS Changes at The Vatican | 2

Saint Reporter, Natalie Przybyla tells us about big social decisions being made from the Vatican

I AM AQ | 3

Learn about the I Am AQ initiative to recognize student leaders, reported by Staff Writer Tom Doetsch

>>CULTURE TSwift’s Takeover | 5

Staff reporter Haley Brink lets you into why you need to check out Taylor Swift’s newly released album

Carmen | 6

Culture Editor Abbi Racine reviews the highly praised opera

>>SPORTS Women’s Soccer | 7 Saint Reporter Sam Delamarter reports on the AQ Women’s Soccer team as they prepare for the WHAC Championship World Series Wrap Up | 8

Staff Writer Zoe Harmon wraps up the World Series as Giants take all

We’re shaking it off, Taylor.

Rocking out for awareness Code Blue for Autism wraps up week with Autism Awareness benefit

By Mayra Monroy Editor-in-Chief During the week of October 27, Aquinas’ campus was filled with the color blue.

The week, dedicated to Autism Awareness, was filled with an events put on by the student organization, Special Saints. With activities varying from tree planting to tie dying, spectators and the AQ community joined together in a discussion of the reality of autism.

Code Blue started as a small program in the mind of junior Alan Lally during his high school years. In honor of his autistic younger brother, Lally formed Code Blue to raise awareness for those with disabilities and those that supported them.

“My brother Brendan was put on the autism spectrum... I had no idea what autism [was],” said Lally. “I realized that there were a lot of people who still might not know or understand autism, and I realized that needed to change.”

Lally cites his brother’s struggle as the catalyst behind his movement.

“Code Blue for Autism has become something so much bigger than I ever imagined and I’m so glad Aquinas makes it easy for us to stand up for what we believe in,” said Lally.

Special Saints is an organization of students in the movement workings towards stamping out the stigma of disabilities in the community.

“We are excited that our first ever Special Saints Awareness Week went so well. We are excited to see the club grow,” said sophomore Alex Karatkiewicz, President of Special Saints. “I am thankful for everyone who helped make it happen.”

The week included activities like a tree planting by the library pond, tie dying for a cause and a discussion in the Cook Carriage House with Assistant Professor of Education, Dr. Gina Garner.

World News Update Iran, South Africa and Ukraine experience changes

By Anna Musiyenko Staff Writer Iran Reyhaneh Jabbari, a twenty-six year old woman, was executed by hanging from the government of Iran in Tehran prison on October 25, reports BBC.

Jabbari was arrested in 2007 for the murder of Morteza Abdolali Sarbandi, a secret ministry spy, who made an attempt to sexually abuse her.

Jabbari made a confession under the threat that she stabbed Abdolali Sarbandi with a knife in the back, however, there was one other person in the house who actually killed the ministry agent.

Human rights and the difficult situation around this case attracted the attention of both the US State Department and British Foreign Office, who were trying to make Iran abolish the use of the death penalty.

“This is another bloody stain on Iran’s human rights record,” Hassiba Hadj Sahraoui, Amnesty’s Deputy Director for the Middle East and North Africa Programme said.

According to the Sharia law, the official moral code and religious law of some Muslim countries, the woman would be not only punished for trying to prevent the sexual assault by using force but also for not stopping a rapist from having the sexual relationship and provoking him by inappropriate dress.

“Tragically, this case is far from uncommon. Once again Iran has insisted on applying the death penalty despite serious concerns over the fairness of the trial,” Sahraoui said.

South Africa Senzo Meyiwa, the national soccer team’s captain of South Africa, was shot and killed in a robbery attempt at the township next to Johannesburg on October 27, reports The New York

Grand Rapids Griffins | 7

Times.

M e y i wa wa s s t a y i n g i n h i s girlfriend’s house when two gunmen entered the place and a third person was waiting outside. The attackers asked for money, cellphones, and other valuable goods. Trying to protect his girlfriend from a firearm, Meyiwa was shot through the chest by a single round. The police declared his death by the time his body reached the hospital.

Since 2013, South Africa has had one of the world’s highest murder rates. From April 2013 to March 2014 the number of people killed in the state rose to more than 17,000.

The South African’s government are currently in search of Meyiwa’s killers and have offered an award of $23,000 for any information about the attackers.

Ukraine The preterm parliamentary election in Ukraine on October 26th 2014 became one of the most significant days in the history of the country, reports CNN. Going through the strict monitoring by official international observers, Ukrainians proved their support for the ideas of the February pro-European revolt in the capital and rejected far-right neo-nationalist parties.

“I asked you to vote for a democratic, reformist, pro-Ukrainian and pro-European majority. Thank you for having heard and supported this appeal,” President of Ukraine, Petro O. Poroshenko, said.

In order to prevent proRussian separatist movements and pressure of Kremlin, Ukrainians did not allow a single Communist Party candidate to be elected in Parliament. It would be the first time in 96 years that Communists would not be represented in the Ukrainian legislature.

COURTESY PAULINA PEI

#CodeBlueforAutism: Nelson enjoys the musical entertainment at the Code Blue for Autism benefit Saturday.

There was also a Blue Out on campus with students wearing all blue to support autism awareness.

Saturday was the cherry on top of a perfect week. From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Wege Ballroom, the community convened to raise funds and fun for the Code Blue for Autism Week. Through the work of Special Saints, and the volunteers from AQ clubs like Programming Board, the AQ Acts of Random Kindness, Art Club and the Education Club, the hard work paid off.

With performances ranging from dancing to the headlining band, the event proved to be pure success.

“Originally we were hoping that at least 150 people would attend, and we met our goal easily,” said sophomore Kelsey Cotton. “We had an amazing group of performers and volunteers who helped

make the night truly a joy to be a part of.”

The cost of admission was a $2 donation or unused school supplies. The money was donated to the Autism Alliance of Michigan and the supplies to Congress Elementary School in Grand Rapids. A donation bought spectators a seat to a benefit that would ultimately raise $400 for the Autism Alliance. With a variety of musical performances from AQ students, there was also a performance from Arts in Motion, an art studio located in Eastown that provides people living with disabilities a chance to participate in art, music and theatre activities.

“It was honestly so rewarding to be a part of the Code Blue for Autism benefit concert,” said sophomore singer Maggie Wissman. “It’s so important that people take the time to understand Autism and

make a better life for people with those needs. This was an amazing step towards that acceptance.”

In the future, expect to see more collaborative programs from Special Saints by monitoring their Twitter and Facebook accounts.

All in all, the one ultimate goal was accomplished: awareness.

“I think we gained a lot of awareness this week,” said sophomore Special Saints Vice President Genni Terrana. “We had a lot of students attend as well as friends and family who have a connection with autism.”

“It was great to see the response of all the club members, volunteers, and guests throughout the week and their willingness to be part of something dear to my heart and the hearts of many others,” said Lally.

Making it up as they go ICE Improv debuts for the first time this year and share their changes everyone laughing. The first was a game of interruption, where a man tried to propose to his girlfriend in They’re bigger. They’re better. a public restroom but kept getting They’re louder. They’re funnier. i n t e r r u p t e d b y e ve r y t h i n g f r o m women’s rights advocates to a man They’re back.

They are the Aquinas College in a wheelchair who fell off his improvisation troupe known as In seat in a stall. Eventually, the man Case of Emergency (ICE) Improv was finally able to propose in this and on Wednesday, October 29, they unlikely setting, which led into the returned to the Moose Cafe for a second game, Superheroes. This new season and new cast in front of game followed Insomnia Man and his friends; a Malfunctioning Robot with a packed house.

Wednesday night, ICE delivered an Attitude, Snot Girl, and Motor Oil seven fun-filled games that had Man as they tackled their greatest foe yet, a world full of germs. Other games included “I Can Do Better”, a game where players get replaced in a scene by another p l a ye r w h o t h i n k s they can repeat the action of the other and improve on it; “Interrogation”, a guessing game reminiscent of Clue™; “Switch”’ a game where four scenes would rotate o n e a f t e r a n o t h e r, “Inanimate Object”, a game where an inanimate object talks to a human (who is the only person who can hear the object); and “Chariots of Fire”, a slow-motion game that is the troupe’s signature way of ending each show.

MARY WEBSTER//THE SAINT Aquinas senior Back and Better Than Ever: Junior co-captain Paul Katie Glossop, ICE’s DeAngelis and the troupe kick of the year with a co-captain, is looking performance in The Moose cafe. forward to working

By Carlos Hernandez The Saint Reporter

with the new recruits to the troupe.

“The beginning is always fun because you’re beginning to know everyone’s senses of humor. Everyone has a different sense of humor, so it’s always cool to know what makes someone laugh and what they think is actually funny,” said Glossop.

Since auditions, the Improv players have been hard at work, sharpening their skills twice a week to understand each other better.

This year, only seven performers make up the roster: Captains Katie Glossop, junior Paul DeAngelis, returning members sophomores Regan Rohrs and Ian Scheidel; and new members freshmenNoah Kellogg, Jack Farrell, and junior B r i d g e t t e D e g e n h a r d t . D o n ’t b e fooled, however, this does not mean the troupe is any weaker than in years past. In fact, Glossop sees advantages in having a smaller group, saying that “It’s a little more intimate.

We definitely have to depend on each other a lot more for those interchanging roles within games, so everyone has to be willing and versatile to play a lot of different roles with a smaller troupe.”

It is safe to say that ICE is off to a strong start. With a popular turnout, a debut night of many laughs, and a dedicated crew who l o ve s i m p r o v i s a t i o n . T h e y m a y make it up as they go, but their spirits match that of people who have practiced for a life time. Come by a show in the future and see for yourself!

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THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2014

Aquinas: President Olivarez’s father passes away

Michigan: Bones found at Downtown Grand Rapids site

National: One World Trade Center opens for Business

World: Migrant Boat sinks off the coast of Turkey

The Aquinas community was informed on Saturday November 1 that President Juan Olivarez’s father passed away in Texas.

There will be a memorial mass on campus soon to honor Dr. Olivarez’s father.

Un-specified bones were found at a demolition site downtown Grand Rapids on Monday, November 3. They were taken to the Grand Rapids morgue for a species identification. They were found at 24 and 41 Division Ave. It was reported on Tuesday that the bones belonged to that of a cow.

Thirteen years after the original twin towers were destroyed one of the world trade centers opens. The addition to the New York skyline awaits the opening of the other world trade center but for now employees begin moving in.

More than 24 people have died and are missing from a migrant carrying boat that sank in Bosphorus, where it meets the Black Sea. Refugees could have been attempting to travel to Bulgaria or Romania but the nationality of the passengers is unclear at this point.

Science Update:

Inside the Ebola Virus

Big Changes at the Vatican The Vatican discusses changing views on divorce and same-sex marriage

COURTESY FLICKR

Nick Pierce The Saint Reporter Ebola is a virus which has a ninety percent death rate and this has become an issue of national health.

Ebola causes symptoms such a s h i g h f e ve r, h e a d a c h e , s o r e throat, and weakness. In severe cases, the virus attacks the organs and the immune system within t h e b o d y. T h i s c a n c a u s e t h e symptom of vomiting or coughing up blood. Due to these statistics, research on how the virus spreads and interacts within the body has increased. One big discovery that has been revealed by the research is how the Ebola virus attacks the immune system.

Proteins are sequences of DNA that encode for chemical compounds called amino acids.

These amino acids link together and carry out a function within the body. Dr. Henshaw, a chemistry professor at Aquinas College, said, “The sequence of amino acids provides an eloquent example of how nature reacts chemically.

By having different sequences of amino acids, this can lead to different shapes of a protein which provides a different function.”

Dziubanska, the head author of this research, experimented with a protein found in the Ebola virus called a nucleoprotein (NP).

Dr. Hess, a biology professor at Aquinas college, states “The NP closely associates with the RNA genome of the Ebola virus and looks like it helps the virus with viral gene transcription, RNA replication, viral packaging, and the assembly of viral particles before the viral particles leave the host cell for another host cell.” In other words, the purpose of this protein is to package and prepare a “good for shipment”. The “good” in this case is the part of the virus that cause problems when a cell gets infected.

NPs are important because other viruses, such as the cold and flu viruses, do not have NP’s.

This means that when someone is infected with Ebola, there is an abundance of NPs. Since there are a lot of NPs, a test can be created to determine if a cell contains them.

In order to study the protein, t h e p r o t e i n wa s c r y s t a l l i z e d s o a picture can be generated. The picture shows the NP that is found in Ebola. Dziubanska explained that “The NP found in the Ebola virus has a certain fold that plays a mechanistic role in an infected a cell.”1 This fold causes the Ebola virus to attack the immune system in a certain way which plays a key role in creating a vaccine or a drug to manage the Ebola virus. Based on this information, researchers can determine a way to use this new information to hopefully find a vaccine.

COURTESY CATHOLIC CHURCH ENGLAND

A Big Change: Recent changes in the Vatican are ringing out in the Catholic Community. Are they for the better?

By Natalie Przybyla The Saint Reporter Within the past decade, there have been many changes in the world. We went from there being hardly any divorce in the 1950’s and earlier to a teeth-gritting statistic of nearly 50% of couples who get divorced. The LGBT+ community was once hush-hush and it was outrageously abnormal to run into an “out” person, whereas now, it is not uncommon for someone to hear of two men getting married.

But what does the Church think of this? Well, with a change of mind in society, the Vatican may closely follow.

Pope Francis and the bishops of the world are currently working on the completion of the most recent document of synod about possibly accepting divorced couples and gays into the Church along with their families. The document is now being reviewed and commented on by bishops around the world. Those comments and criticisms will be sent back to Pope Francis and he has the power to make a decision of what happens after that.

The Pope has said that we must bring back love to the family, but also discuss the welcoming of non-traditional

families into the Church. This is the first time in history where this subject has come up, and some are extremely excited about it. Many can see this synod having the potential to bring the branches of Christianity back together and maybe gain some followers in the process.

Not all are too keen on the possible changes. There are still some conservative traditionals that wish for the Church to remain as it is.

Father Stan Drongowski commented on the subject. Along with giving much information about the synod, he took time to reflect on the possibility of the Vatican changing some of its values.

Father stated, “In the end, God through the Holy Spirit is going to win. There are all sorts of ways that the working of the God might be impeded, but there is no way God is going to lose.”

Many Christians would agree with Father Stan’s reflection: no matter what happens within the Church, God will always come out on top.

Only time will tell what will happen in the Vatican within the next year or so with the final part of the synod, but in the mean time, be sure to keep an eye on the Vatican. This could change some very important and prominent world views.

Human Trafficking:

Modern slavery continues to occur in all parts of the world today

By Mackenzie Murphy Staff Writer The International Labour Organization estimates that nearly 20.9 million people are trafficked into various sex and labor markets, located in brothels, farms and factories.

Fortunately, the initiative of numerous individuals, governments and agencies are working to change that.

A $150 billion dollar industry, human trafficking affects victims from all backgrounds. The Polaris Project, an organization working to prevent human trafficking and provide assistance to victims, reports that the demographic of victims span all spectrums of gender, age, race and nationality. Men and women, adults and children, U.S. citizens and foreign nationals are all trafficked and forced to perform labor they have not consented to. Traffickers, however, typically target their victims based on a number of vulnerabilities: displaced war refugees, homeless youth, international laborers, and victims of sexual and domestic assault. Traffickers usually share some common trait with their victim (such as nationality) in order to understand and control their victim.

The Southern African CounterTr a f f i c k i n g A s s i s t a n c e P r o g r a m (SACTAP) reports that the most common way international victims are lured into the system is through the false promise of an employment opportunity. The trafficker will promise an overseas job opportunity, s u c h a wa i t r e s s i n g p o s i t i o n o r domestic help, and convince the victim to obtain a passport and other necessary papers. Once the victim meets up with the trafficker, the trafficker will exploit the victims’ language inadequacies, cultural ignorance, and fear to control them

and sell them into various markets— labor, sex, or organ trafficking.

In the United States, most human trafficking has taken the form of sex trafficking. According to The Polaris Project, street prostitution, escort services, residential brothels, and disguised massage parlors as well as spas all serve local and national human trafficking rings. Once an individual is made a victim, the traffickers will confiscate their identification records and use emotional and violent manipulation to coerce them into performing unwilled and unpaid labor.

Organizations around the world are helping to stop the forces of human traffickers through crime enforcement, p r e ve n t i o n , a n d a wa r e n e s s . T h e FBI reports 19 major cases of sex trafficking convictions in October alone. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Justice Programs report that convictions in the state have doubled since last year, meaning that newer victim-centered approaches are working to crack down on cases that would otherwise have gone unknown. Globally, Awareness Against Human Trafficking (HAART) works to increase the awareness of the crime in Kenya, which is a major transit and destination for many traffickers. During ArtPrize this year in Grand Rapids, Women at Risk (WAR) led a number of initiatives to help provide awareness and prevention of trafficking. To help identify and rescue victims of trafficking, WAR partnered with an outreach program entitled “Save Our Adolescents from Prostitution” or S.O.A.P. Volunteers packaged bars of soap labeled with the human trafficking hotline and donated them to local hotels and strip clubs, which are major hubs of sex exploitation during influxes of tourism, such as the case of ArtPrize.

To l e a r n m o r e a b o u t h u m a n t r a f f i c k i n g v i s i t w w w. traffickingresourcecenter.org or www. polarisproject.org to discover ways that you can help make an impact.

International Student Profile: Mohammed F. Al-Ghamdi

By Anna Musiyenko Staff Writer Following his dream of receiving a high-quality college education and explore himself, Mohammed F. AlGhamdi, a freshman at Aquinas College, came to the United States from Saudi Arabia.

Al-Ghamdi is a full-time student at Aquinas College whose major is computer information systems.

“I want to work as a programmer to deal with computers, softwares and applications. But I am still expending myself in the major and discovering more options for me,” Al-Ghamdi said.

Al-Ghamdi started his college education back in Saudi Arabia being involved in the management information system program.

However, he did not truly enjoyed t h a t m a j o r w h i c h d i d n o t h a ve enough connection to computer programing.

The Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission offered Al-Ghamdi a chance to get into an educational institution in America in order to be capable

of achieving the country’s goals of Al-Ghamdi said. future progress and development.

Even though trying to get “I really appreciate that I have an excellent grades at Aquinas College opportunity is a priority to study in f o r A l A m e r i c a Ghamdi, he w h e r e is involved in everyone vol u n t e e r i ng can speak and helping their mind people with and express special needs. themselves Achieving an w i t h o u t experience as borders,” Ala volunteer Ghamdi said. in different Though organizations, the cultural helping to differences feed people a n d and providing uncommon them the traditions necessities for are usually living made the most Al-Ghamdi challenging t o b e a ve r y issues for COURTESYMOHAMMED F. AL-GHAMDI open-minded almost all international person and be students, Mohammed F. Al-Ghamdi free from any type of discrimination. wa s a b l e t o q u i c k l y “ c a t c h ” t h e “I believe that all human beings American lifestyle. are equal. So I do not understand “When I first came here I was when people are able to judge others shocked how honest people can only by the way they look, their be about their life. I was raised in race or religion. For me looking in another culture and did not have people’s eyes after helping them is the same experience back home,” priceless,” Al-Ghamdi said.

News Editor Yasmeen Ahmed E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

Phone (616) 632-2975

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

In addition to being involved to the college and community programs Al-Ghamdi enjoys spending his free time on discovering new places in Grand Rapids, traveling and tasting cuisines from different parts of the world. The desire of getting to know foreign cultures and meet people with different mentalities is pushing him to visit countries such as Germany, United Kingdom, France, Canada, Lebanon, Malaysia, Indonesia, and even distant New Zealand.

“I think Lebanon is one of my favorite countries because it has an amazing nature and gorgeous views.

In Saudi we have big and beautiful cities but that would be it, once you are out of the city all that you will see is sand and desert,” Al-Ghamdi said.

In the virtue of America, challenging international students to become the best version of t h e m s e l v e s , M o h a m m e d F. A l Ghamdi stepped outside of the personal comfort zone and started the new chapter of his life being on an American journey at Aquinas College.

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NEWS

THE SAINT WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2014

here? Can you see it’s not like it usually is?’”

Shortly afterwards the bus would be flagged down by two men. The two who looked like college students got onto the vehicle and asked, “Who is Malala?”

A first thought for some is that they were

of British doctors in Pakistan. She was transported to the UK for treatment. A portion of her skull was removed because Malala Yousafzai, 17, becomes the off of the pressure that was on her brain, and youngest recipient of the award for her problems such as her kidney’s shutting down, activism in education. circulation and heart problems, and unstable Malala continues to be an inspiration, blood pressure were threatening after surviving an assassination attempt the young girl’s life. from the Taliban back in 2012. She’s Some call her story a miracle, known for her activism, especially for and Malala went through physical her work with female education. Her therapy after being taken out of courageous story and strength before, a medically induced coma. She during, and after the incident is what started attending school in the UK, sets her apart and earned her the Nobel and also in 2013 gave a speech at Prize. the United Nations. The speech Malala was born on July 12th 1997 at the UN was entitled, “Malala in Mingora Pakistan. Growing up she Day”, and was both her sixteenth attended a school founded by her father. birthday and the first time she’d A writer for Bibliography.com wrote an spoken since the attack. article in 2013, saying, “After the Taliban Malala co-wrote a book with began attacking girls’ schools in Swat, British journalist Christina Lamb Malala gave a speech in Peshawar, called, I Am Yousafzai: The Girl Pakistan, in September 2008. The title of Who Stood Up for Education and her talk was, “How dare the Taliban take

COURTESY NYMAG.COM Was Shot by the Taliban, which away my basic right to education?” #Malala: Malala Yousafzai becomes youngest recipient of was released in October 2013.

In addition, “In early 2009, Yousafzai the Nobel Peace Prize began blogging for BBC about living It was announced the Nobel under the Taliban’s threats to deny her an journalists, and her friends by staring at her Peace Prize for 2014 was to be awarded to education. In order to hide her identity, she accidentally identified Malala to the men. Kailash Satyarthi and Malala Yousafzai, “for used the name Gul Makai. However, she was Raising his hand, one of the men revealed a their struggle against the suppression of revealed to be the BBC blogger in December gun and within seconds shot Malala who was children and young people and for the right of that year.” just 15. BBC.com reported, “She was initially of all children to education.” This makes her Threats from the Taliban were being conscious, but restless and agitated, moving the youngest winner of the award and during sent to Malala and her family because of her all her limbs,” while adding, “The entry a press conference in Britain she thanked activism. On October 9th 2012 she boarded wound of the bullet was above her left brow. her father for, “not clipping my wings and a bus after school. Sitting with her friends on From there it had travelled down through her for letting me to fly.” She plans on spending her way home she noticed something was neck and lodged in her back.” her share of the $1.1 million prize money in off. She asked them, “Why is there no-one Luckily, at the time there was a team Pakistan for educational projects.

By Veronica Burns Staff Writer

Contemporary Writers Series

Malala Yousafzai

Americorps:

Grand Rapids

Doing work all over the country, Americorp projects continue to improve our local community two passionate college students that are not It’s easy for us (as disappointed humans) to get caught with what up in the moment, AmeriCorps has often forgetting about allowed them others around us who to experience. are in desperate need But they are of help. In an effort to not the only educate and advocate members with its members about the close ties to the greatest challenges Grand Rapids i n t h e c o m m u n i t y, and Aquinas one national service community. program stands tall: K r y s t l e AmeriCorps.

Duthil, Aquinas Administered senior studying by the Corporation psychology and for National and communication, Community Service works alongside (CNCS), AmeriCorps Coffman as is a broad network of a M C A H over 70,000 individuals r e p r e s e n t a t i ve JESS COFFMAN/ THE SAINT who belong to local, educating people s t a t e , a n d n a t i o n a l Community: Americorps members, including some of Aquinas’ own students, on poverty and organizations that seek prepare for an event with the American Red Cross homelessness, to fortify citizenship often taking part and the ethic of service throughout the prevent, prepare for, and respond to in nationally-recognized days of U.S. AmeriCorps efforts are similar disasters,” said Yuill. service like MLK Day, 9/11 Day of Jess Coffman, a junior studying Remembrance, and Make a Difference to those of the Peace Corps, but AmeriCorps focuses heavily on issues communication and journalism at Day. Duthil’s participation with that affect American life. Think of it as Aquinas, is another AmeriCorps Degage Ministries downtown includes a more domestic approach to the Peace associate who is revitalizing her assisting patrons with finding lowCorps--a service much smaller in scale community’s needs. Coffman serves income housing and jobs. but aligned with proactive change for as an AmeriCorps member with “I want to advocate to others and the Salvation Army Social Services give them the tools to succeed,” said social injustice in our country.

Although the program is recognized Housing Assessment Program. She Duthil, talking about the clients and nationally, there are AmeriCorps works firsthand with the homeless volunteers alike. members right here in our community. and those at high risk of becoming As a first-generation American, These individuals with close ties to homeless. Like Yuill, Coffman was Duthil’s understanding of Grand the Grand Rapids family have put also introduced to the Together Rapids has increased significantly; forth a great deal of their time and We Prepare program upon joining to her Rapidians are deeply rooted effort to ensure areas of need are met. AmeriCorps. in helping one another. She assumes “I joined because I enjoy helping the role as the unofficial AmeriCorps Ashley Yuill, a 2013 Alma College graduate earning a degree in political others,” said Coffman, “and knowing liaison of the organizations she has science and international relations, that in some small way, I am trying to been involved in. In addition to s e r ve s a s t h e D i s a s t e r S e r v i c e s make the world a better place.”

Degage, Duthil has volunteered at the C o f f m a n a l s o r e p r e s e n t s t h e children’s museum, Broadway Grand Associate with the American Red Cross of Greater Grand Rapids. Her M i c h i g a n C o a l i t i o n A g a i n s t Rapids, along with many opportunities role as a second-term AmeriCorps Homelessness (MCAH)--a nonprofit in work study.

Shifting into a members has compelled her to serve membership organization formed to career of training and development, in her own country and state where provide housing programs to those in Duthil hopes to establish community she grew up with rich passion for need. Parts of downtown GR express partnerships that would allow others a significant need for programs like to become more empathetic towards helping.

“I joined AmeriCorps,” said Yuill, MCAH. Coffman’s roles include these causes. “because I knew that I wanted a career outreaching, identifying housing As three young and passionate in public service, and it seemed like a o p p o r t u n i t i e s , a n d d e v e l o p i n g social entrepreneurs, Yuill, Coffman, strategic plans regarding housing and Duthil extend their gratitude for great way to start.”

Yu i l l ’s p r i m a r y f o c u s i s w i t h and homelessness. the AmeriCorps experiences they have Coffman enjoys the options that so graciously taken part in and will Together We Prepare, one of the largest AmeriCorps programs in AmeriCorps has allotted her as a continue to be a part of.

Michigan with nearly 30 members college student. Since it gears towards “I will carry this commitment with statewide. TWP’s efforts closely members 18-24, AmeriCorps can me this year and beyond,” said Yuill. relate to those of AmeriCorps, with a sometimes go unheard of. Coffman “It would be nice for [AmeriCorps] concentration in providing emergency believes it is a positive option for to become known as another option assistance to victims of disasters, and all college students who strive to for college students who would like to readily prepare citizens for future succeed. to dedicate themselves to a year of “My goals as a member,” said service and gain experience in the disasters before they strike.

As she continues her journey with Coffman, “are to serve my community professional world,” said Coffman.

AmeriCorps, Yuill hopes to improve to the best of my abilities through my “A m e r i C o r p g i v e s m e t h e the capacity of the ARC’s Disaster program, and to spread awareness of opportunity to seek out things I am Services program, sustaining the AmeriCorps.” passionate about to help make a AmeriCorps has empowered many difference in the world,” said Duthil. timely responses to sudden disasters. “ My goal is to increase resiliency young people to get involved with in our community and to help people organizations that satisfy the needs of the community. Yuill and Coffman are

By Chucky Blackmore Staff Writer

News Editor Yasmeen Ahmed

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

Essayist John D’Agata talks poetry and science-fiction the second century. Plutarch was an essayist, not in the academic sense that we think of today, but h e u s e d i t t o c o n ve y e m o t i o n s .

D’Agata read a part from What We Have which is a letter Plutarch wrote to his wife about the death of his five year old daughter. In it he

By Tom Doetsch Staff Writer

We l l k n o w n e s s a y i s t J o h n D’Agata came to Aquinas on October 10 and presented some of his work in the Wege Ballroom.

D’Agata read some excerpts from his book About a Mountain and talked about one of his favorite writers a third century essayist, Plutarch.

D’Agata works mostly with non-fiction a n d p o e t r y, t h e s t u d y of his masters degrees f r o m U n i ve r s i t y o f I o wa , which is considered to have one of the countries best graduate schools for writing. One of his more we l l k n o w n b o o k s A b o u t a Mountain is about the g o ve r n m e n t s t o r i n g t h e i r most dangerous nuclear w a s t e i n s i d e o f Yu c c a Mountain. His speaking and great introductions made evident just how skillful of a writer he is. His use of imagery, transitions and diction make for a masterful composition.

When D’Agata read a COURTESY WELOVEYOUSO.COM portion from his book it brought the imagery to life. John D’Agata: Essayist and poet speaks about his A lot of what D’Agata love of writing and interests said was quite captivating also how a large portion of this excerpt was geared towards says “If I come home and find you scientific fiction, even though he uncontrollably grieving I would w a s n ’t i n t r o d u c e d a s s o m e o n e f e e l wo r s e t h a n I wo u l d l o s i n g w h o h a s e x p e r t i s e i n t h a t a r e a . her.” The feeling of losing his wife A t o n e p o i n t D ’ A g a t a s a i d is more significant than that of “Human culture will most likely him losing his own daughter. He dramatically change in the next speaks against extremely radical t e n t h o u s a n d y e a r s b u t h u m a n and deep emotions maybe for the e m o t i o n s w o n ’t . ” C i v i l i z a t i o n s reason that when people become rise and fall but the one thing that extremely emotional they tend to has remained constant throughout not be themselves. Plutarch leaves all of history is emotion. D’Agata us with one last remark “If you a i m s t o c o n v e y t h a t n o m a t t e r neglect the pleasures of life, then what happens to the human race you can easily forget that you’re e m o t i o n s w i l l r e m a i n c o n s t a n t . alive.”

People will always feel happy and sad, depressed and elated.

D’Agata didn’t read any of his poetry but instead he shared work from one of his favorite writers, Plutarch an essayist from

I AM AQ

Aquinas recognizes student leaders in the “I AM AQ” program, to be celebrated at the Leadership Conference in Februrary

By Tom Doetsch Staff Writer

Leadership is a good trait to have and those that have it will now be recognized. In the words of student organizer Alexis Hartman a junior, “the program is to recognize and show appreciation for the students on campus who exemplify best what leadership really means.”

This program is meant to emphasize leaders who go above and beyond in their own way to make Aquinas a better place. I AM AQ is based around the leadership conference that happens February 28. These leaders exemplify all four charisms; study, prayers, service, and community and they go out of their way to make the AQ difference.

It is no coincidence that this is happening right after All Saints day. Everyone is a leader in their own unique way but this is a how, as a community, we can congratulate and celebrate these people that really embody leadership. I AM AQ is looking for these such leaders, the heroes/heroines of Aquinas.

This isn’t the first year that Aquinas has done this. A couple things have changed and some have stayed as they are. Last year this

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was launched along with the leadership conference and Madeleine Burns, senior, another student organizer said “The I AM AQ campaign will carry the leadership initiative though the year and lead up to this years Leadership Conference on February 28th, and continue afterwards. One element that will stay the same is the I AM AQ t-shirts that students received and wear on select days to show how many leaders we have.”

This year, all year Aquinas leaders will be recognized and appreciated for their leadership in the community. Instead of ending with the leadership conference, this will go year round. Students will wear their t-shirts as well, on specific days to show how many leaders Aquinas has recognized.

Aquinas should be proud of their leaders and this is the perfect opportunity to give them credit.

However this isn’t only Aquinas leadership on campus but also off campus and in the surrounding community. Leaders like CAVA, will also be thanked for their contributions to making the community a better place for all.

Nominations are open (available online on Student Senate website) Tuesday, November 4 - November 11, students selected will be announced on November 19. February 28 is the Leadership Conference open to all students for free!

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THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2014

The Right to Death

FROM THE CROWD

By Natalie Przybyla The Saint Reporter

APPLAUSE TO...

Rock the Vote, for having free corn dogs and educating the Aquinas campus; Alksnis Sports & Recreation Center, for finally being open to the public; Student Senate Commuter Committee, for making Commuter Week spectacular; Political season, for being over so that the negative ads will stop; Autumnal foilage, for making Aquinas the most beautiful place in Grand Rapids; Christmas, for only being seven Saturdays away.

HECKLES TO...

Fall Break, for ending far too quickly; Michigan weather, for letting it snow on Halloween; American Horror Story, for keeping us up at night; Pumpkin smashers, for littering our campus with plant matter; Starbucks, for inevitably taking away our Pumpkin Spice Lattes soon; America, for panicking over Ebola but completely ignoring HIV/AIDS.

Classifieds...

Nursing & Teaching majors: get your CPR & First Aid requirements done when you want at GR Healthcare.

2180 44th Street SE, Grand Rapids Sign up for an easy class at www.grhealthcare.net.

Lots of classes available

theSaint 2014-2015 E D I T O R I A L B O A R D Editor-in-Chief News Editor Culture Editor Creative Director

Mayra Monroy Yasmeen Ahmed Abbi Racine Emily Higham

Sports Editor Opinion Editor Managing Editor Adviser

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Taylor Hodges Chuck Hyde Aaron Campbell 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

Opinion Editor Chuck Hyde

Assisted suicide has been an issue since 1997 when Gonzales v.s. Oregon was upheld in court, legalizing the procedure in the state of Oregon. Since then, Washington state and Montana followed the same path. Slowly but surely, this practice is spreading to the rest of the nation.

Some are skeptical of this law, thinking it is immoral and dangerous, that, in slippery-slope fashion, this law will make suicide normal and completely acceptable. That surely is not the case.

When it comes to physician-assisted suicide, there are two main ways of getting things done. One is lethal injection by a doctor in a hospital; the other is a prescription to take home to be with family and friends.

In the United States, one has to be terminally ill and mentally stable in order to receive the pills or the injection.

The examinations of the body and mind are so the doctors (and the government) know that this person is willing to put themselves out of misery and there is no chance of survival whether the procedure is followed through with or not.

Most patients who receive the pills do not follow through with the act. Either process is painless and is compared to falling asleep.

Regular suicide is very different from physician-assisted suicide. The people who commit suicide are 32 times more likely to suffer from a mental disorder such as clinical depression or schizo-

phrenia. It is often done to solve a problem they cannot escape. Men are more likely to commit suicide than women.

The biggest risk for men is being single and for women the risk is held in being unemployed.

Suicide is a risk in itself. It doesn’t always work, and people who attempt and fail are at high risk of bodily problems, especially with the use or drugs or hanging. Many who commit suicide have attempted before, so it is clearly not 100% effective and, in most cases, painful.

The Constitution states: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. By law, the family of a person on life support is able to “pull the plug.” It does not matter if that person is able to consent. Yet, when someone pulls their own plug, it’s not lawful. By law, we have a right to live, and we should have the right to die in peace.

Life allows us to be who we are without being discriminated against. Liberty allows us to control our bodies and have a dignity given to us by law. Finally, to be happy and prosper in our lives.

These provoke a question: If one cannot be happy living, why should they continue pursuing the life which they were told they have liberty over?

The three states that allow this procedure understand that a right to live comes with a right to die with liberty and be happy in death. If a person wants pills to stop the pain from their terminal illness, they should have a right of doing so.

From the perspective of many, the process of death is frightening and unde-

sirable. Sometimes, though, death is the only option we have. Think of your old dog who had to be put down.

My dog, Mandy, had to be put down because the arthritis she had all over her body was making her nearly paralyzed in pain. I grew up with her and I considered her family. She was my best friend.

But if I were her, I wouldn’t want to live with such amounts of pain that I can’t go to the bathroom without falling over. At least I know that she died with what dignity she had left in her.

Animal euthanasia is a little different from human euthanization, but it has the same reasoning: put them out of misery so they don’t have to die in pain. With physician-assisted suicide, people willingly take the shot or the pills. It isn’t any different from refusing a life-saving surgery, and it involves more consent than when a family member takes another off life support or euthanizing an animal.

Since 1997 with Gonzales v. Oregon, assisted suicide has been a big issue in the U.S. Assisted suicide is safer (as safe as killing yourself can be) than regular suicide, it is more consensual than pulling the plug or euthanizing a pet and supported by our constitutional rights.

America’s third president, Thomas Jefferson, once wrote in the original draft of the Declaration of Independence, “We hold these truths to be sacred and undeniable… among which are the preservation of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” Happiness is not waiting eight months for cancer to slowly and painfully kill you. Happiness is knowing you lived a great life and will go out in peace.

Bigotry, Hatred, and Internet Culture

By Chuck Hyde Opinion Editor The internet can be a scary place. Filled with people hiding behind anonymity that feel free to say anything they please about any topic that happens to be brought up, many parts of the World Wide Web are straight up terrifying to enter.

In many ways, the internet is the most important invention of the last fifty years or possibly even longer than that.

It has also provided an avenue for all of humanity to communicate instantly no matter where they are in the world. On top of all this, however, it has become a breeding ground for hatred of all sorts.

With the aforementioned anonymity so easily assumed, people feel free to let out whatever horrible opinions and thoughts they have on their mind. Misogyny and racism are rampant, with many people spouting their distrust or distaste for races, genders, sexualities, or religions other than their own. This shameful practice is encouraged by many of their peers on various message boards, with websites such as reddit, 4chan, and others having sections that are devoted to dehumanization of a certain group.

Sites such as often disguise their bigotry as masquerading for a cause, attacking people for while fueled by their feelings about a certain group the person belongs to. For example, indie game developer Zoe Quinn was put through massive torment due to an alleged scandal that involved her sleeping with online journalists to gain notoriety for her game Depression Quest. Despite many of the details being proved false, many people attacked her online, showering her with death threats, personal attacks, and slut shaming.

Misogyny is perhaps more rampant than other forms of prejudice, with nude photos of celebrities and other women alike being leaked to the internet daily.

When the subjects demand they be taken down, men cry that this constitutes censorship, some going so far as to say they deserve it for taking the photos in the first place. This negative approach to sex and objectification of women is all to common online.

This is not all that unusual, unfortunately. People have had their lives completely ruined over things that have been perceived by the internet masses to be immoral. Infamously, image board 4chan drove teenager Amanda Todd to commit suicide due to their constant harassment to both her and her family.

This anonymity is one of the many things that is contributing to an overall loss of sense of responsibility among people, both on the internet and off. The internet easily gives an avenue for people to perpetuate horrible crimes, many of them much worse than the aforementioned harassment. Drug trades, human trafficking, child pornography, and other illicit businesses have become primarily online endeavors, making them harder to track down and end.

While incredibly useful, the internet has become a toxic environment where productive and intellectual conversation can be difficult or hard to even find at times. While the anonymous nature of the ‘net can allow people to freely express what they truly think, it also allows for this kind of disgusting behavior.

Ultimately, though, the solution lies in tracking down those that are responsible for death threats and other deplorable activities, rather than censoring the internet as many politicians are attempting to do. A few bad cases do not mean that privacy should be revoked, merely that we as a people should work to better apprehend criminals both on and off the internet.

Letter to the Editor: The Trendy Food Takeover

By Profs. L. Rob Peters and Nathan Poirer Guest Writers We wanted to address an issue from The Trendy Food Takeover Lives On in the August edition of the Saint and expand on it. Overall we are impressed with the article. In it, Peters says, “I don’t see almond milk having much nutritional benefit other than a way to avoid animal protein.”

But, Peters wants to stress that “avoiding animal protein is a great thing for many reasons, which makes almond milk a great choice for many individuals.” While there are certainly nutritional concerns that need to be addressed when considering giving up animal protein, choosing non-dairy over dairy provides undeniable environmental benefits and may provide moral and health benefits. With other things equal, why not choose non-dairy? It’s as easy as reaching for one carton over another.

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

Dr. Peters stresses the huge environmental benefits of decreasing consumption of animal protein. This sentiment is supported by many other scientists. Biologist Dr. Marc Bekoff writes, “in many countries, 50 percent or more of greenhouse gases (GHG) come from cow gas.” Additionally, animal-based food production “is the key land user and source of water pollution by nutrient overabundance” (Eshel1). Consequently, people “now talk about the ‘carbon hoofprint’ to refer to the large amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere by the livestock industry” (Bekoff). An August 2014 scientific publication details the environmental impacts of animal-based foods and the results show that the impact of beef is dramatically greater than the impacts of other animal-based foods (Eshel2). The authors show that the land, irrigation water, GHG, and reactive nitrogen (Nr) required for beef is

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160, 8, 11, and 19 times greater than the average requirements of rice, wheat and potato, respectively. Dairy, poultry, pork and eggs require 6, 0.5, 2, and 3 times the amount of land, irrigation water, GHG, and Nr compared to potato, wheat and rice (Eshel3).

Dr. Peters would like to clarify this statement from the August Saint Article “The Trendy…”: “Even though avoiding animal protein has its benefits, they’re probably not all they are talked up to be.” Instead, the word “may” more accurately reflected his thoughts at the time of the interview than “probably.”

To conclude, it is clear that individuals will provide extensive environmental benefits to society and all inhabitants of the planet by more frequently choosing plant-based foods over animalbased foods.

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THE SAINT |WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2014

Movies: Mockingjay - Part One already setting records

Television: Chelsea Handler slams Instagram for removing topless picture

Music: Dr. Luke sues Ke$ha’s mother

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part One, the third installment of the widely popular Hunger Games series, is already setting the bar high, with the adaptation surpassing Divergent and breaking advance first day ticket sales for 2014. Now, the real question is how does the Capital feel about this?

Comedian Chelsea Handler, formally of E! Network’s Chelsea Lately, has dismayed Instagram after her portrayal of a shirtless Vladmir Putin on horseback was taken down. Handler Instagrammed herself topless while poising on a quadrapred with the caption, “Taking this down is sexist. I have every right to prove I have a better body than Putin.”

Early October, pop’s most crass star Ke$ha revealed that mogul music producer Dr. Luke physically, verbally, and sexually abused her during the years they worked together. Dr. Luke has retaliated, filing a lawsuit against the “Tik Tok” singer’s mother, citing “tortious interference” with her daughter’s contract.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

>>Tom Cruise/Lindsay Lohan

Rumors circulated Halloween weekend concerning actor and famed Sciencetologist Tom Cruise, 52, and wild child Lindsay Lohan, 28, certainly making it a Freaky Friday. Lohan’s representative has announced that the pair is not dating.

COURTESY HUFFIINGTON POST

Bless Me Father

Ouijia proves to be terrifying, even after months of hype

father stan | campus chaplain Fr. Stan, how can i maintain my faith in college when there are so many temptations surrounding me?

Dear Faithful but Tempted, You are facing a fundamental dilemma of real life faced by any and all persons of faith. One thing that makes me crazy is when people talk about college life as opposed to “the real world”. College life is, in fact, a microcosm of the real world. The temptations you face are real, as you well know. This is a time for you to learn to face them in the light of the values in which you have obviously been formed. The first thing to realize is that there is no way you will ever be able to do it alone. This is exactly why we have this thing we call “church”.

My first word of advice to you is to practice your faith in the sense of worshiping regularly. doing this will help you focus on the power of God working in your life.

The second thing you can do is an extension of church. Find others with your values who are similarly struggling. relating to and sharing with others in this way is a tremendous way to find help.

You do not mention what your faith background is. If you are Catholic there are many possibilities available to you, the most obvious being The Catholic Life Club. There are also faith sharing groups that meet weekly all over campus throughout the course of a week and these are open to all students, no matter what their faith tradition. It is too late to connect with one of these for this semester. You can, however, contact Terry Marshall in Campus Ministry for further information.

Fr. Stan, is there something against a Catholic guy going after a Jewish girl, dating wise?

Dear Relational Ecumenist, There is absolutely nothing wrong with a Catholic guy dating a Jewish girl from the Catholic perspective. Depending, however, on the nature and degree of her Jewish observance, you may experience from her everything from, “Sure, why not,” to, “It’s impossible. Don’t even think about it.”

Hi, Fr. Stan, I’m in a bit of a situation. I’m still not over my Ex even though it’s been a year since he broke it off. The problem is, I see him at a weekly dance event where we originally met. I do not want to stop going to the event but seeing him there brings back emotions. What should I do?

Dear Broken Hearted, It is extremely difficult to heal from the end of a significant relationship when, every week, the scab gets ripped off the healing wound. The problem is that when this happens with your body there is always the real danger of an infection setting in. This can happen emotionally as well. The first inclination is to find support and a sympathetic ear from among friends.

My assumption is that you have already done this and it has not helped. Part of the problem is that in these support situations friends try to “help” by trash talking the guy. This, intimately is not only unhelpful but ultimately unhealthy.

It tears you apart because you still have deep feelings for him.

The fact that you have been struggling with this for a year now indicated that this is a situation that is far deeper than a broken youthful romance. My advice is to go to the Counseling Center in Donnelly and talk to the friendly people there. This doesn’t mean to suggest that I think you’re over the edge.

Every once in a while we all need to get deeper help for our problems.

A couple visits to the Counseling Center could really help.

Didn’t see your question here?

Keep an eye out for next issue!

Submit your confessions, questions, and concerns to: ask.fm/tellthesaint

COURTESY UNIVERSAL PICTURES

Plot-hungry horror: Despite the overused concept of contacting the spiritual world, Ouija still terrifies audiences .

By Darcy Vines Staff Writer After months of hype for a seemingly overdone plot, Ouija still manages to provide the scare factor that movie-goers scream for every autumn.

The way that most other humans crave the adrenaline rush of being scared or surprised every once in a while, I crave normalcy and relish in being a fraidy-cat.

With that being said, I still wasn’t con-

vinced that Ouija held an original spot in the “horror” genre until I took it for what it is: a Halloween thriller geared to attract a wide audience.

The beginning sets out in a trite, expected way. The beautiful blonde named Debbie, played by Shelley Hennig, tempts fate with a forbidden ouija board, and suffers instant consequences. No spoiler alert necessary, as this all happens in the first five minutes of the movie. The remaining

85 minutes are spent following Debbie’s group of friends--including protagonist Laine, played by Olivia Cooke--as they try desperately to contact their deceased friend through the ouija board and for the most part all meet the same gruesome fate.

The idea of ouija boards contacting the spirit world is nothing new. We all know the lore surrounding the seances and medium work in which they can be used, and the mystery of how they work

Artist Spotlight: Steve Moakler

No tears on this guitar: T-Swift transitions into the pop scene

with Red in 2012. “I Knew You Were Trouble” and “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” haunted the radio for months.

Her newest album 1989, is already showing signs of over-popularity on our beloved radios.

If you haven’t heard the song “Shake It Off” by now, you must have been living under a rock for the past month or so.

Along with “Shake It Off”, Swift has 9 other songs on the newly released album. Among the bunch are “Wildest Dreams” and “Welcome to New York”.

These two songs are actually pretty catchy.

“Wildest Dreams” is about a boy (but who COURTESY BILLBOARD.COM am I kidding, all of her Wildest dreams: 1989 is the anthem of the straightsongs are about boys). haired and sassy side of an ex-country singer.

This one’s about a bad boy that steals her heart, and she’s hoping

By Haley Brink that he’ll remember her and stuff. So, it’s Staff Writer full of typical T. Swift lyrics.

24 year old re“Welcome to New York” is repetiformed country art- tive. It’s catchy, but it drones on and on ist Taylor Swift has and on and on and on. She has taken on done it again. this whole pop star persona, and she’s In her 10 years really covering up the whole ex-country of being a well- singer thing she had going on. known musician, Overall, the album isn’t all that bad. she became a seven- The only thing that could be bothersome time Grammy win- about it is that, unlike her past albums, ner, and she has somehow managed to the music takes over and covers up her switch genres more times than the aver- voice. age singer in their entire career, while still In her earlier albums, her voice was maintaining a huge fan base. accompanied by a couple of soft instruWe all remember back in 2006 when ments. All the electronic/pop sounds she her first self-titled album came out and has now are great, but her voice kind of “Teardrops on My Guitar” and “Our dwindles in the background if you’re Song” cluttered the radio. Swift dominat- not directly paying attention to her. The ed the charts yet again in 2008 when she sounds are distracting, but in a good way. released Fearless, overwhelming the radio When you actually hear her voice, she waves with “Fifteen”, “Love Story”, and sounds really young.

“You Belong With Me”. But she didn’t All of the lyrics are similar, and the stop there. songs feel like they’re all on the same In 2010, she released Speak Now fea- topic, but that is pretty much all pop muturing hits “Mine” and “Back to Decem- sic these days. What matters is that all of ber.” the songs are catchy, and kudos to Taylor Then she changed up her style, as for being able to change up her style so well as her genre, by presenting her fans swiftly.

Culture Editor Abbi Racine

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

(or don’t work) is a great base for a horror film. However, Ouija spends so much time focused on the board itself and the teens’ experiences with it, that for a plot-hungry horror hater, the characters have no substance and the resolution--or lack thereof-seems trite as well.

Does that mean that Ouija doesn’t serve its purpose and scare the pants off of anyone pining for a good scary movie around this time of year? Absolutely not.

The “twists” of Ouija’s undeveloped plot can be seen from a mile away, and the acting overall was hit-or-miss. The deaths of teenagers are played off as nothing too unusual, and the characters never seem to be all that concerned for their wellbeing. The audience knows exactly what to expect when doors start to slam on their own, when “hi friend” gets scrawled into desktops and on brick walls, and when the bodies start to pile up. Somehow, it remains just as terrifying.

Everyone has experienced the frustration of yelling at a silver screen character to not go upstairs, or open the door, or answer the phone, knowing that immediate doom exists on the other side of that decision. Somehow, while our yelling falls on deaf ears, we remain on the edges of our seats and biting our nails. All 90 minutes of Ouija have this feeling. You know what’s happening next, know that it will be horrifying, and yet still jump when a body drops to the ground.

If you’re looking for a suspenseful film that’ll stretch your brain or force you to fall in love with a character, pass on Ouija. However, if you’re an adrenaline junkie with a masochist’s heart, I dare you to sit through the whole movie without screaming a little.

COURTESY STEVEMOAKLER.COM

Wide open: Singer-songwriter Moakler bares his soul on his third studio album.

By Abigale Racine Culture Editor Artist: Steve Moakler Genre: Indie, Country Current Album: Wide Open Comparisons: Matt Wertz, Ben Rector Popular Tracks: “Damn, Do I Think About You”, “Riser”, “Hesitate” On the opening track of his most recent album, Nashville-based musician Steve Moakler shares, “I would rather make a living, just being myself.”

Moakler’s easy-going demeanor and his appreciation for the simple life radiate through the eleven tracks featured on the singer’s third studio album Wide Open, released last spring.

Throughout his musical career, the artist’s intense passion for music and his love for his higher power have been scripted into honest, beautiful lyrics.

On the single “Damn, Do I think About You”, Moakler reveals his life philosophy, detailing, “I don’t care much if I win or lose.

I don’t worry where I am heading to, but damn, do I think about you.”

The song “Riser” is another standout track on Wide Open. Moakler’s melodic voice washes over the listener as he vocalizes, “I’m strong enough to hold you through the winter. I’m mean enough to stare your demons down. Hard times put the shine into the diamond but I won’t let that keep us the ground.”

Even after one listen, Wide Open proves to be ear candy, but an uplifting listening experience as well. Throughout his musical

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career, Moakler has made it clear that making a positive influence was his always his intent.

In 2006, he had moved from his hometown of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Nashville, Tennessee to fulfill his dreams of becoming a singer-songwriter. Even while working a series of odd jobs to make ends meet, Moakler had found the time to record records and co-found FREE THE BIRDS, a non-profit organization aimed toward funding independence and restoration for women and children exposed to human trafficking.

What’s not to love? The man is a philanthropist, and his music is sweetly romantic, while adorned with serious guitar chops.

The fact that he bears a striking resemblance to actor Penn Badgley doesn’t hurt either.

Watching Time Run, released in 2011, remains my favorite Moakler album, based solely on the thoughtful, positive lyrics.

This is proven on the track “Lifetime” as he croons, “My soul, my soul can breathe in your love. I know, I know I come alive in your touch and I won’t let go. Because it would take a lifetime to know all of the love I have to give you.”

Before he settled on a specific tone as a musician, Moakler experimented with a more contemporary singer-songwriter sound with his 2009 debut All the Faint Lights.

Even though he recorded this album when he was younger, Moakler demonstrates promise as a musician with mature lyrics. Steve Moakler has only grown stronger musically and I can’t wait to hear more from him.

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CULTURE

THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2014

Carmen: an operatic success of dramatic proportions

COURTESY MLIVE

Très magnifique: The Opera Grand Rapids performance of Carmen sizzles

By Abigale Racine Culture Editor A complicated love square. Tarot cards. Jealousy. Murder. Bull fighting. What more could be more entertaining on Halloween weekend?

With its recent impressive production of the classic French opera Carmen, the Opera Grand Rapids leaves theatre attendants wanting more- similar to the femme fatale that commands the stage.

In four acts set in Seville, Spain, Carmen follows the derailing of Don José, a gullible soldier who falls for a seductive, temperamental gypsy. Don José abandons common sense and his duties (as well as his mother and childhood sweetheart) to follow Carmen, the fiery woman who has captured his heart.

Along the way, Carmen falls out of love with Don José and directs

her attention toward Escamillo- a hot, young, self-absorbed toreador.

Don José, overwhelmed by losing the love of his life and tormented that he threw his respectable lifestyle away for Carmen, strangles her with rosary beads in a jealous rage.

Under the stage direction and choreography of Candace Evans, the intense storyline was well-executed by a talented cast and was enhanced by the accompaniment of the Grand Rapids Symphony.

Costumes consisted of beautiful, dramatic wine-toned fabrics and incorporated eye-catching beading. The detailed stage setting and props where on-point, giving the sense that one was present in Spain.

The highly-anticipated show drew in a full house at the DeVos Performance Hall, on the night of Saturday, November 1, and the audience did not leave disappointed.

Ginger Costa-Jackson’s performance as Carmen is chilling.

Costa-Jackson can hold a mischievous smile capable of manipulating all those who surround her.

Not to mention that she has the voice of an angel and that her haunting cackle is intoxicating.

The New York Times recognizes, “Ginger Costa-Jackson is a ravishing mezzo-soprano from Italy… Her voice has dark, rich colorings and considerable body.”

Another notable mention is soprano Sarah Jane McMahon in the role of Micaëla, the other woman desperate for Don José’s affections. After considerable effort to re-direct her childhood love, Micaëla is rejected.

John Bellemer ’s passionate performance in the role of Don José is truly what steals the show. Bellemer gives a memorable depiction of a man who has reached the end of his rope and has nothing left to lose.

Did I mention the entire opera was sung in perfect French? The show obviously took a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication and the performers nailed it.

Not only were the acting and the vocal performances superb, but the choreography of the show was flawless and perfectly-timed.

Other shows scheduled for the season include Noah’s Flood at the Fountain Street Church in February and Tosca at the De Vos Performance Hall in May. Carmen, being the first show of the opera’s 2014-15 season, has set the bar high and ensures that culture is present in West Michigan.

Good Eats: Pho Anh Trang

By Nate Gimby Staff Writer Since September, I have been slated to review the Bandit Queen, a brand new ramen bar opening up on Division. Unfortunately for those of you waiting to get some delicious, authentic ramen, the Bandit Queen opened for a day but was been forced to return to port once again on account of mistakes in their paperwork.

Luckily there are plenty of other great places to eat around Grand Rapids that serve delicious bowls of broth and noodles. Lately my mother has been obsessed with a Vietnamese restaurant called Pho Anh Trang. Located on the corner of Eastern and 36th Street, the place is a bit of a drive, but if you want to try some delicious and authentic Vietnamese cuisine, the trip is more than worth it.

If you’re not familiar with pho (pronounced fuh), it’s basically rice noodles, beef broth and meatballs, with the addition of fresh bean sprouts, lime, mint, basil and nuoc mam (fish sauce). Good pho is ideally a perfect blend of rich, savory beef and crisp, fragrant herbs and vegetables and let’s just say that Pho Anh Trang has pho in their name for a reason. A daily 50% off special on the dish means that a bowl bigger than my head only runs about $5.00. This soup is not meant as an appetizer but a full meal so you’ll get your money’s worth and then some.

With that in mind even a college student budget will leave you with a couple bucks to try one of

Writer Spotlight: Tom Doetsch

“Mr. Squirrel” Today I saw a squirrel on a tree. He was sprinting back and forth between branches; and kept picking at the small berries at the tips of those branches. Once he got one he stood up on two feet, held the berry in his two small hands and started to nibble at it. He was just as brown as the branches and not too bigger than the average squirrel, maybe and inch taller. I couldn’t see his teeth but I thought they were working well since the berries in his hands kept disappearing. His movements were very similar to those of a human; if a berry was on the end of a branch he would hug the small twigs (you couldn’t really call them branches) as he made his way down to the next berry.

When he got to it he reached out with one arm and grabbed it, just like someone picking an apple from a tree. He then must’ve thought he was a bat because, he hung from his feet upside down and ate the berry. Soon he’d reach up and grab the branch like he was doing sit ups and move on ready to capture his next prey, only to keep wondering for more.

“The Wind is My Spirit” As the wind blows I see the leaves on the withering trees dance all over, but they are still tied to the tree just as the tree is tied to the ground. However the wind isn’t tied to anything, it floats freely from the ground to the sky, without a worry in the world. It comes and goes as it pleases, doesn’t need to eat or drink, sleep or wake. It is free of all desire and pain, nothing restricts it.

The wind like my spirit, free of worry and hurt. My sprit leaves me sometimes and when it does, I feel dull, asleep. By myself, I’m dead, lifeless, meaningless; but OH! My spirit feels as a nice winter ’s night breeze splashing upon my face when it returns.

“The Dragon and the Truth” Oh woe is he who lusts for he is already dead. Lust is like a dragon, its talons cut deep, being bigger than the slayer, its wings larger than house, its skin impervious to anything. It is fast enough not to be seen by the eye, and this is when it strikes, in the dark where the eye can’t see and when you are alone.

Oh how mighty he who is chaste is, armed with knowledge, he doesn’t strike its skin like the fool does, nor does he deny the dragon’s existence like the ignorant ones do. First the soldier of truth slashes the wing so it can’t escape, then he shies away from the talons because he knows they are deadly. Second he chops its feet so it cannot run away, and the beast falls just as easily as a house of cards. It lies there crumbling away like dust in the wind. The fool walks up and asks “How did you strike it down? Its skin is impervious” The wise soldier replies “Did you see skin on its feet? Or on its wings?”

COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS

Culture Editor Abigale Racine

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

Phone (616) 632-2975

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

their appetizers. I would recommend their spring rolls, which are like egg rolls but not fried or greasy.

Fresh lettuce and cucumber accompany a combination of shrimp or sliced or ground pork for a hearty but refreshing snack.

Another entrée I would recommend if you’re not in the mood for soup is one of their meatball or roast pork noodle dishes. The pork comes served up on a bed of noodles and a side plate of lettuce, cucumber, mint and basil (seeing a pattern here?). Basically the thin rice noodles and pork are meant to be wrapped in the lettuce with the other veggies and dipped in nuoc mam. It can be a bit messy for the uninitiated so don’t be afraid to ask for a bowl to eat the ingredients like a typical pasta instead.

On that note, don’t be intimidated by the complicated Vietnamese names for dishes either. The menu features English descriptions and numbers next to each item. If something sounds good, just pick a number and the friendly staff will be happy to explain the dish for you.

The one thing I might avoid at Pho Anh Trang is their shakes with tapioca pearls. The papaya shake I ordered tasted oddly like an Orange Julius and the tapioca bubbles were chalky and most of them stuck together at the bottom. Other than that, Pho Anh Trang has delicious, affordable food for anyone looking to try something a little different.

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THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2014

WHAT TO WATCH: New York Jets in trouble

Oklahoma City Thunder: Westbrook out four weeks

Ohio Girl leaves it all on the court

WHAT TO WATCH: Bruins sign Julien to extension

The New York Jets dropped their eighth straight loss Sunday losing to the Kansas City Chiefs 10-24. Michael Vick’s first NFL start in a year didn’t prove to help, as the former Hokie was injured in the fourth quarter and left the game briefly, before returning to finish the game.

The Thunder will have to deal with yet another injury. After reigning NBA MVP Kevin Durant injured his right foot, Russell Westbrook joined the club as the point guard broke his right hand after a collision with teammate Kendrick Perkins. Westbrook will be out of commission for at least four weeks.

Freshman forward Lauren Hill of Mount Saint Joseph University was diagnosed last fall with an inoperable brain tumor. In a game against Hiriam College, Hill lived a life-long dream of playing in a college basketball game.

In front of a sellout crowd Hill scored a lefthanded layup within the first 17 seconds.

Boston Bruins head coach Claude Julien can sleep a little better tonight after he signed a multiyear extension with the club. Julien is the second longest tenured coach in the NHL behind Mike Babcock of the Detroit Red Wings. The 54 year old led the Bruins to a Stanley Cup Championship in 2011. The Bruins currently sit with a record of 7-6.

What In The World

Griffins Remain Confident

taylor hodges | sports editor While many of you are excited about the return of the NBA season and more importantly Lebron James teaming up with Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love for Cleveland, I’m shaking my head in embarrassment for the Buffalo Sabres and Carolina Hurricanes of the NHL. The Sabres and Hurricanes both belong to the Eastern Conference and subsequently, are the worst teams in the league this year. Surprisingly, the Sabres are doing better than the Hurricanes, albeit only by one point.

The Sabres are probably the least talented team in the NHL right now. Even more so since they sent back their second overall pick, Sam Reinhart back to juniors, which was the right decision in my opinion.

After getting blown out by the powerhouse Pittsburgh Penguins over the weekend, the Sabres have a lot to do if they want to keep fans coming to the rink. They have a couple scoring threats in forwards Chris Stewart, Matt Moulson and Cody Hodgson.

After that, they have a roster full of bottom six forwards and players trying to ease into the NHL game, some who would be playing in the AHL if they belonged to any other organization.

While they possess some scoring threats, there has been speculation that they are looking to trade right winger Stewart for a sizeable return. In my opinion, they need to go-ahead with rebuilding the team.

If they traded Stewart, they would only do so for a first round pick, a young, promising prospect, and either a top six forward or a top four defenseman.

At this point, the Sabres are almost guaranteed to land a top two pick in this summers draft due to their poor start and lack of depth.This summer’s draft features a plethora of talent, but what separates this draft from the rest is that there are two generational talents in Erie Otters forward Connor Mcdavid and Boston University forward Jack Eichel. The Sabres are more than likely going to end up choosing one of those players in the upcoming draft. They have the potential to choose both since they own the New York Islanders first round pick, but the Islanders are more than likely going to make the playoffs since they possess more talent.

The Hurricanes aren’t doing much better. After finally winning their first game of the season against the Arizona Coyotes, the team has not expected this disastrous of a start. Their poor start mainly lies with injuries to their top players. Unlike the Sabres, the Hurricanes have the depth and star power to at least make the playoffs. Their goalie Cam Ward, helped them win a Stanley Cup in 2006 and they have some promising prospects in defensemen Haydn Fleury, Ryan Murphy, and Josh Wesley.

Their captain, Eric Staal is back centering the top line after being out with an upper-body injury. Also back from injury is solid third-liner Patrick Dwyer. Eric’s brother, Jordan Staal will be out for much of the season after breaking his leg in a preseason game against you guessed it, the Buffalo Sabres.

The Hurricanes however do have hope. They have great, young talent in wingers Jeff Skinner and Elias Lindholm.

They also have a sniper in Alexander Semin.

While Semin hasn’t been performing up to par lately, the Russian should get back on track after being benched and scratched in the last two games.

The real problem for the Hurricanes lies in their defense. They possibly have the worst group of defensemen in the league.

After youngster Justin Faulk and veteran Andrej Sekera, their defense corps consists of players bought out of contracts and washed up players. The good news for fans is that they drafted a couple great defensive prospects in the last couple of drafts, so bare with them for awhile longer. Their goalie Cam Ward needs to be better if he wants to be a fixture on this team. His numbers are terrible for a starting goalie and the backup, Anton Khudobin, could be stealing his job any moment.

Chances are if you don’t watch hockey, you’ll see one of these teams make the Sportscenter Not Top 10 list. Take a deep breath though, Lebron James coverage will be back on soon.

Struggling at home

By Darcy Vines Staff Writer The Grand Rapids Griffins have yet to win a game at home at Van Andel this year, but they remain confident in the veterans returning to the ice, as well as the new talent joining the team this year.

Six games into the new season, the Griffins have split wins and losses evenly, but by no means do they expect this season to be a mediocre one.

“Comparing this year to last year is pretty hard, but it’s early,” said senior director of public relations for the Griffins, Randy Cleves. “We’re thrilled with the group of players that we have this year.”

And thrilled they should be. Three of the Griffins’ defensemen--Alexey Marchenko, Ryan Sproul, and Xavier Ouellet spent time with the Red Wings last season, and according to Cleves, these players as well as defensemen Mattias Backman and Nick Jensen could be ticketed to the NHL for longer, if not permanent stays this season.

The Griffins also welcome back right winger Teemu Pulkkinen, who proved to be invaluable last year as the team’s leading scorer, and begins the season with four goals in six games. Pulkkinen continues to be a leader on and off the ice, inspiring his team to do better each game. After an uncharacteristic 5-4 loss to the Lake Erie Monsters on October 24th, Pulkkinen commented that the team

wasn’t playing defense, and according to Cleves, “that was an honest assessment.”

“As a team, we don’t allow five goals,” said Cleves. “Teemu was right, that was an anomaly. It’s not an offense against defense thing, it’s a team thing.”

New to the team dynamic in Grand Rapids is center Stephen Weiss. Weiss signed a contract to join the Red Wings last year from the Florida Panthers, but spent a good amount of time on the injured reserve list in Detroit. Recently, he was assigned to a two-game conditioning stint with the Griffins, and they’re eager to see where he can fit in this team composed largely of Calder Cup winning veterans.

“Usually it’s a seamless transition,” said Cleves. “We play very similar to Detroit, and Weiss is a good guy who knows the staff and the players. We’re not sure how long he’ll be here, but it’ll be good to have him.”

It was reported that Weiss injured his groin in the Griffins game last Wednesday against the Rockford IceHogs. He will visit with doctors to determine the next step in his recovery.

The month of November will see five home games and six away for the Griffins, including the chance to even the newly begun season series with the IceHogs on November 8, and a three-game road trip to face the Rochester Americans and the Adirondack Flames at the end of the month.

More Than a Game

By Sam Delamarter The Saint Reporter The Aquinas Women’s Soccer team is truly a family that continues to fight for each other. Sitting at the head of this family is Coach Rodger Garner.

It may be Garner ’s first season as the head coach of the team, but he is far from short on experience. Garner has a deep soccer background spanning many levels of the soccer world including, being involved with the Aquinas soccer program since 2002.

Having said this, by no means is he taking the credit for the remarkable season they are having.

“All the credit goes to the ladies on the team, I just try to make sure they realize that the team comes first, and they all have bought into that,” said Garner.

It’s evident that they have all done this. There is an all out effort from every member on the team.

“From the players who play all the time to the players who seldom play, you really can’t tell a difference in their attitudes,” said Garner.

This team first mentality contributes to the play of their elite defense. As a team, Aquinas is currently ranked second in the nation for total shutouts at 11. These shutouts have been crucial to the Saint’s success, including the 1-0 win over a ranked Davenport team. To have

Basketball Is Back

COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS

By Haley Brink Staff Writer Basketball season is nearing, and both the men and women’s Aquinas basketball teams are ready to play. They’ve been training hard, and are ready for this season’s chain of events. They’ve been patiently waiting to play, and the time has finally come.

The men’s team is looking sharp and ready for this season. With the Head Coach Dave Hammer out for the time being, Associate Head Coach Denny Krynicki is taking the reigns.

“There is a lot of new talent, and a lot of great returning talent,” said junior shooting guard Jeff Cain. “Our guard players should be really nice, and our big men are solid.”

They are up against some pretty strong teams this year, but with all the training the team has been doing, it should turn out to be a solid season. Practices are hard and the players have been working really hard to make this season a clean one.

“We focus a lot on individual skill work,” said Cain. “We practice hard, and I know it will pay off.”

The men’s team’s first game, against Masters, will be a tell-all for how the season will pan out. But things are looking bright. On November 7 and 8, Aquinas is hosting the WHAC - Crossroads Challenge.

Sports Editor Taylor Hodges

The team will play Indiana Wesleyan at 8pm on November 7, and Robert Morris University on November 8. Then, on November 15, there is a home game at 3pm against Concordia.

The women’s team is shaping up nicely as well. There are a lot of new faces on the team, and adapting is always a challenge, but the team seems to be handling it well.

“What we lose in experience, we make up for in talent,” said senior guard Allison Heberlein. “This freshmen class, along with the returners, have a lot of talent, and I’m excited to see where we will go this year.”

Though the first game was lost to Calumet College of St. Joseph (49-64) on October 29, there is still time to turn the season around.

There is lots of time to adapt to the new team dynamic, and even more time for improvement.

“The biggest challenge will be staying patient and getting to know how everyone plays on the court,” said Heberlein.

With all the beginning of the season motivation, the players are ready to take on this season with high hopes. With all the hard work put into training, it will definitely be a great season for the women’s team.

There are three upcoming home games for the women’s team.

November 4 vs. Goshen, November 7 vs. St. Francis of Indiana, and November 8 vs. Huntington. So be sure to get out there and support the Aquinas Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams.

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

Phone (616) 632-2975

prcgr.com Call: 616-456-6873 Text: 616-284-1545 Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

such a strong defensive record is a great feat considering the strength of this year ’s schedule.

Junior goalkeeper, Lindsay Armstrong, is having a standout season by herself but knows she wouldn’t be anywhere without her team.

“No matter if you play every minute of every game, or none at all, each person is relied on to do their part for the team. I trust every one of my teammates to do that,” said Armstrong.

Armstrong and the rest of the Saints will look to continue holding strong in the weeks to come. The regular season is coming to a close but our lady Saints aren’t done yet.

The WHAC Tournament starts this week, with games scheduled for the 5th, 8th, and 14th of November. The tournament is single elimination and will feature the top eight teams in the WHAC. Our women are fully capable of going all the way but it will not be an easy task.

“The WHAC is stronger than it has been in years, with most teams having overall winning records, and three ranked teams most of the year,” said Garner Make sure to cheer on your women’s soccer team as they look to make a run for the WHAC championship.

8

SPORTS

THE SAINT |WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2014

World Series Wrap Up: New champion, new goals

By Zoe Harmon Staff Writer After a full seven games of baseball, the San Francisco Giants came out on top of the Kansas City Royals, but not without a challenge. Starting out with a win in Kansas City the Giants were on top, but the Royals answered back the next game by taking the win.

This left the series tied as the teams traveled to San Francisco With home team advantage no longer on their side, the Royals were still able to take the win for the third game.

As a new team to the Series, it was clear that they finally had the early nerves ironed out and were ready to play. Unfortunately, the next night was not successful for them as the Giants took the win to tie the series back up. After this game, it was clear to see this World Series was going to be one to remember.

The excitement continued into the fifth game, the last one held in San Francisco, when the Giants held the Royals scoreless in a 5-0 win. Of course the Royals were not satisfied with that

and fought back; this time they held the Giants scoreless in the sixth game with a 10-0 win. With this win, the Royals tied up the Series once again, and pushed the series into a seventh game.

Fans of both teams excitedly filled the Ewing M. Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri on October 29 for what was sure to be one of the most exciting games in World Series history. In natural fashion, the teams did not disappoint. During the second inning, both teams out two runs on the board, only adding to the intensity of the game. Moving forward, the Giants were the next team to score; this was one run in the fourth inning, and after that the Royals were unable to answer back. With a gut wrenching end to the ninth inning for the Royals, the Giants were named the 2014 World Series Champions. Although a champion was crowned, it is clear that many people agree that both of these teams should be recognized for their outstanding 2014 seasons, and their fight through October.

As always, there are players that

seem to stick out during intense series like this one. One of the players for this series was Giants starter Madison Bumgarner. After having started just three days prior to game seven, Bumgarner went in to pitch after the Giants got in trouble. Despite this, he was able to pitch for the win. This helped him to enhance his incredible stats to ending the series with two wins, an amazing save, and an earned run average (ERA) of 0.43. Without Bumgarner’s willingness to be a team player, game seven would not have been the same.

The World Series is the conclusion to the 2014 Major League Baseball season. Each team is now reviewing their strengths and weaknesses and already preparing for what they will be working on when players report for Spring Training in February 2015. Both fans and players can hardly contain their excitement for the 2015 season to officially begin, but until March 2015, fans will have to patiently wait to get their “baseball fix.”

New Faces Bring Excitement AQ Bowling takes on feat

By Jess Coffman Staff Writer The Aquinas Bowling teams hit the lanes Saturday, October 26 in the Boilermaker Classic hosted by Purdue University. The Women’s team placed ninth, ahead of teams from Lindenville-Belleville, Elmhurst, and Davenport University.

With eight new members, this is quite a feat.

“We expect great things with all the new bowlers, people should be expecting us to keep improving.

We are a strong team and only hoping to get better,” said freshman Barbara Lawson When asked why she joined the bowling team, Lawson replied, “I fell in love with the sport of competitive bowling. When I came here and found out they had a bowling team, it made me want to come here more.”

Junior Raychel Woelever held her own in the tournament, placing

ninth with a total of 940 pins.

“I personally struggled in the beginning, but adjusted after a tough game and I was happy with the outcome of the tournament. I always have a lot of fun with my team, which helps me bowl better,” said Woelever. “Our team did pretty well with it only being our third year. We shot some of our highest games in school history, which was exciting!”

The Men’s team placed 17th, ahead of both Indiana and Virginia Tech. Junior Dakota Neff placed 47th with a total of 900 pins and Freshman Jared Edgerton knocked down 888 pins for 52nd place.

“The guys were a little disappointed in their finish. We qualified 13th Saturday and felt we could make a move Sunday in Baker match play, but a couple bad games at the wrong time kind of snowballed us in the wrong direction,” said men’s coach Charlie Tapp. “But

as long as we learn from our mistakes it will make us better the next time we face the same situation.”

“Our goal is to get the program turned around and instill a winning attitude,” said Tapp. “Both mens and womens teams have been at the bottom of the WHAC Conference since the program started two years ago and as coaches that’s unacceptable.”

November 7, 8, and 9 you can find the bowling teams competing at the Crusader Classic hosted by Valparaiso. Aquinas will also be hosting its own tournament December 6 at Westgate Lanes in Comstock Park.

“We’d love to see a nice crowd there. Bowling has always been kind of a second fiddle sport and we’d like to change that perception,” said Tapp.

Sports Editor Taylor Hodges E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

Volleyball On The Rise: Playoff bound

By Joe Pelak The Saint Reporter The Aquinas women’s volleyball team is starting to come together at the right time. They’ve always been together as far as closeness but as far as on-court, they have been on point lately. The team is now on a six game win streak and hopes to improve t h e i r streak to seven in We d n e s d a y ’ s h o m e m a t c h against S i e n a Heights.

After u p s e t ting powerhouse Northwestern Ohio in straight sets, the volleyball team carried that momentum into a weekend contest against Lawrence Tech and Marygrove. That momentum proved to work, as the team won three sets to two against Lawrence Tech and three sets to one against Marygrove. Mackenzie Kolstad led the charge with 15 kills and 51 total attempts against Marygrove. Also pitching in with 4 kills was freshman middle hitter Kenzie Haley. The team has four seniors: Rachel Sprenger, Hannah Mahoney, Elle Sturgell, and Kolstad. The seniors have played a vital role in the emergence of the younger players on the team. Each player on the team has played a key role throughout the season which has helped bring them to where they stand right now.

Aquinas is led by a trio of captains in outside hitter Kolstad, defensive specialist/libero Sprenger, and sophomore setter Brooke Wieland. These players have helped set the tone for the team in practices and games throughout the season thus far and look to will the Saints to a deep run in the playoffs.

Along with the captains, another player that has led the way on the court for the Saints is sophomore middle hitter Michaela Ryan.

So far through October 21, Ryan is

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Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

seventh in the WHAC conference for hitting percentage. Ryan has 163 kills out of 402 total attempts which comes to a 26.1 hitting percentage.

“I don’t really attribute my high hitting percentage toward anything because I wouldn’t be anywhere without my teammates,” said Ryan.

“I do put a lot of hard work and determination in each day to try and get to the next level”.

With t h r e e regular season games remaining, the Saints look to finish strong and gain s o m e moment u m h e a d COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS ing into tournament play.

“Our main focus at this point in the season is confidence,” said junior outside hitter Sierra VanTil. “As a team we have the necessary skills to be successful. The only thing that is keeping us from finishing on top is our confidence level.”

The three remaining games are against Siena Heights, UM-Dearborn, and Lourdes, with the final home game being a November 5 matchup against Siena Heights.

Saints players and coaching staff believe that if they play to their potential and continue to build momentum heading into tournament play, they will be tough to beat.

Make sure to pack the house at the team’s last home game, before they gear up for playoffs.