The Saint :: Fall 2015 Issue 1

In Memory of Evan Kimball The Aquinas Community mourns the loss of beloved student, athlete, and friend

theSaint

page 8

Wednesday, October 28, 2015 Volume 35, Issue 4

TheSaintAQ.com

Once a Saint, Always a Saint

>>NEWS Letters from Rome | 2 Saint Reporter Natalie Smith fills you in on her adventures in Italy this semester Elliot Walker | 3

Saint Reporter Tom Doetsch spotlights this international student

Andrea Wirgau is welcomed back to the Aquinas family as the new Dean of Students

By Tamara Tiethoff The Saint Reporter

>>CULTURE Harmony Hall | 5

Culture Editor Abigale Racine reviews Harmony Brewing’s sister opening in West Grand Rapids

American Horror Story | 6

Managing Editor Aaron Campbell reviews the first episode of Ryan Murphy’s latest installment in the American Horror Story series

>>SPORTS Griffins | 7 Saint Reporter Charlie Crowley reports on the Griffins season slump and what to expect next Men’s Basketball | 8

Saint Reporter Madison Wilder previews the upcoming season for AQ Men’s Basketball

Once a Saint, always a Saint. If there is any one person who embodies this saying, it is our very own Dean of Students, Andrea Wirgau.Following the footsteps of her grandmother, father, and sister Andrea chose Aquinas because of her strong roots here, her Catholic heritage, and the overwhelming sense of community. After graduation, Andrea worked across the country and traveled from state to state doing experiential education work to enjoy the outdoors. Recently, she found herself back in Michigan and decided that Aquinas would still be a good fit for her.

“It’s very satisfying to be able to give back to the exact same population I was a part of,” said Wirgau.

While studying communication at Aquinas College, Wirgau got involved with the various opportunities Aquinas has to offer. She was highly involved in Campus Ministry, led the CYBIAC retreat, participated in study abroad in Ireland, participated in many service projects like Into the Streets, played intramural sports, was a student worker in the advising office, and an intern in the alumni department.

“I was the equivalent of the folks that dabble in everything,” explained Wirgau.

When asked about some of her favorite parts about her college years, Wirgau was quick to choose her trip to Ireland. Along with the many memories from the trip, she felt like it was one of the biggest things that contributed to her growth. The trip was one that truly opened her eyes to a new way of living.

“I learned [that] I can choose my own path and not live by default, nor by other

Month of Pink:

Breast Cancer Awareness

By Adrianna Triche The Saint Reporter As many of you may know, October has been designated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Organizations such as Hungry Howie’s, Lee’s Jeans, and H&M have shown support to bring public awareness to this disease. Aquinas College is also showing its support.

Different sports teams throughout the years, have participated around campus: A women’s basketball team, our volleyball team, and our men’s and women’s lacrosse t e a m s h a ve d o n a t e d t h e i r proceeds to breast cancer research programs.

Breast cancer is not only a disease affecting women; men are also susceptible. In the United States in 2015, there are expected to be 231,840 new cases of invasive cancer in women and 60,290 non-invasive. The total expected for men are 2,350. The numbers have decreased over the years but Breast Cancer deaths still rank number one.

Some things people like you and I can do to help support breast cancer awareness are: talk to your friends and family about the risk factors like smoking or drinking, talk to your relatives about your family’s cancer history, start a new exercise program, eat an extra serving of vegetables at every meal, o r e ve n s t a r t a g a r d e n . b r e a s t cancer awareness is not only about increasing awareness of the disease but also making sure your loved

ones are healthy.

In 2011, the AQ women’s basketball team participated in the “Pink Zone,” where money earned went to the Kay Yow Cancer Fund for breast cancer research. The women’s volleyball team also participated in Breast Cancer Awareness Month by having a “Pink Out” game. This year AQPB is hosting a Day of Pink on October 28 where they will be creating candle-lit bags and having yoga and meditation to support loved ones who have both won and lost the battle to breast cancer.

It will be in the Wege Ballroom from 8-9:30 pm. Please swing by and participate in these activities.

O t h e r events that have happened in the Grand COURTESY WOTV 4 Rapids area to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month included Couture for the Cure, which was held October 9, featuring a fashion runway, cocktails hors d’oeuvres, makeup stations, and fashions; Pink Saturdays where uninsured women can receive free mammograms throughout the month of October: a 5K run on October 25 through downtown Grand Rapids and Bras across the Grand, where decorated bras will be hung on the blue pedestrian bridge to honor those lost to the diseases. All donations will be to support free programs and services for cancer patients. Grand Rapids, Kent County, and Aquinas College should be proud of their support towards ending the fight.

people’s choices or perceptions, whether that be for good or bad. I chose my own path with intention,” stated Wirgau.

After careful consideration, Wirgau realized that input, learner, intellection, empathy and positivity, as defined by Gallup through the Strengths movement, were some of her greatest assets and the most logical place to use those for her was in student affairs.

“I like to gather every resource I can get my hands on (input). I knew I wanted to lead, and I knew I wanted to work with others who were in the business of learning and thinking (intellection). My personal mission in life is to facilitate positive growth opportunities (positivity), and I wanted to do all of this within the context of higher education (learner),” said Wirgau.

One way to view Student Affairs is through the lens of what takes place on campus to support and bolster the learning in the classroom. At Aquinas College, it envelops Career and Counseling Services, Campus Ministry, Academic and Learning Services, Campus Safety, Campus Life, Residence Life, and more.

“I like to think of it as facilitation of life lessons outside the parameters of the classroom,” stated Wirgau.

Wirgau felt like being a part of student affairs would give her the opportunities to help as many students grow as much as possible in whatever way or manner they could. She strives to have people understand that they are unique and can be exactly who they want to be. Recently she was at a community panel discussion talking with K-12 educators about what were the most important things to teach students. Although there was many great answers she really felt that allowing students to find and use their uniqueness

to succeed resonated the most with her.

“The best thing a student can do is to use their voice, trust their voice, and learn to advocate for themselves. I think there are a lot of competing things in this world and a student knows him better than anyone else. The best thing anyone can do in any walk of life, but specifically as a freshmen at Aquinas, is learn what your voice is; not your parents voice, not your best friends voice, not your roommate’s voice. What is it that you believe, and what you feel is your path, and use that to succeed,” encouraged Wirgau.

Along with giving students the opportunity to grow and be exactly who they want to be, Wirgau has a few longterm goals for Aquinas College as a whole.

She hopes to be a part of the sustainability for the future and also build and sustain systems for the Aquinas family. One of her major long-term goals for Aquinas is to increase and improve the safety systems that are already in place at Aquinas.

“My goal is to make it … the safest place that it can absolutely be. Safety is not only fences and rules and regulations, it’s also a healthy educational process so students, staff, and faculty know how to take care of themselves on many levels,” said Wirgau.

Along with giving students growth opportunities, Wirgau has many things that she has enjoyed about being the Dean of Students so far.

“My absolute favorite thing is the pleased look on people’s faces in the community when I tell them that I work at Aquinas. Everyone has a story of connection [to Aquinas],” explained Wirgau.

One of her favorite things about being on the campus specifically was having the

opportunity to teach one of the freshmen experience classes this year. She wanted to give a special shout out to the eighteen girls in her class. She is thankful for the many laughs and experiences they have shared and the way that they have all gelled together.

Overall, Wirgau encourages college students to spread their wings and embrace everything that comes their way.

As Wirgau said, “This is the time to stretch and grow and it’s an awesome opportunity. I want students to know that failing is growing, fail forward, use all the opportunities to reflect and learn what you could do differently or what you did well.

Among other things, liberal arts suggests that success is unique to each individual.

It’s in large part up to the students, along with advice and input and learning experiences in the world, to define that for themselves.”

COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS

Find a dancing partner in Downtown Grand Rapids Parks Circle, where they played music out of their cars.

Today, the group spends its summers dancing around Grand Rapids at locations like the Blue Bridge, Rosa Parks Circle, and Ah-

for the off chance that they could meet a person of interest like he did.

Upbeat and jazzy music, The group hosts special twirling skirts, and fancy guests and has even broken the footwork are among the world record for most people many things that one would swing dancing. encounter on any Recently that g i v e n Tu e s d a y title was taken o r We d n e s d a y from them and evening at a Grand Zaagman stated, Rapids Original “ We ’r e g o i n g t o Swing Society get it back.” The (G.R.O.S.S.) group needs at gathering.

It least 1,200 people brings people to come dance in from all over unison for five Grand Rapids and minutes to win surrounding areas back the title, and and occasionally plans on hosting those from out the event in of state. It brings December. people together The event and provides a plays a large role great atmosphere i n Z a agman’s to grow and meet life. He says it new people. “ r e p r e s e n t s o ve r A q u i n a s COURTESY MLIVE a d e c a d e o f m y College first-year A l i s s a C o s t e l l o Grand Rapids Original Swing Society: Swing Dancers convene at Rosa Parks l i f e … l o t s o f blood, sweat, and s a i d t h a t t h e Circle in Downtown Grand Rapids. tears.” group was “very H e h a s energizing,” and that there are Nab-Awen Park and dancing their watched people grow from being people who will come and talk to w a y t h r o u g h t h e c o l d w e a t h e r clinically shy to being comfortable you even if they don’t know you. a t l o c a t i o n s l i k e T h e M a s o n i c in the large groups in a matter G.R.O.S.S. was originated by Center, The Grand Rapids Public o f m o n t h s . H e h a s wa t c h e d s i x S t e ve Z a a g m a n w i t h a p a s s i o n Museum, and Woodland Skate proposals and “Swing Babies” to encourage the community Rink. come about because of this group. to take part in an intimate and A m o n g t h e m a n y p e o p l e o f When asked why he keeps doing friendly environment, and has the Grand Rapids community that t h i s , Z a a g m a n r e s p o n d e d w i t h been a success for the past 12 regularly attend the event, Zack a shor t but sincer e answer : The ye a r s t h a n k s t o t h e w o n d e r f u l Salinas is one of those dedicated people. members of the community members who has been swinging and the volunteers who come for eight years. This past summer to support it. It started with he proposed to his dance partner Zaagman and a girl of interest and girlfriend on the Blue Bridge. at the time and some people When speaking about swing, who loved to dance as much as Salinas said, “It’s really intimate,” they did. They were dancing in and went on to humorously say a wa r e h o u s e i n t h e b e g i n n i n g that he encourages friends to go stages and soon moved to Rosa

By Kenzie Wilson The Saint Reporter

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THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2015

Aquinas: Contemporary Writers Series: Carlos Eire

Michigan: A grant that would help to prevent Grand River flooding

National: Processed meats are linked to deadly cancers

International: The nation’s deadliest road accident in France

The final event for this semester’s Contemporary Writers Series will be held on Tuesday, November 10, in the Wege Ballroom at 7:30p.m. Writer, professor, historian, and theologian Carlos Eire will read from his latest memoir “Learning to Die in Miami: Confessions of a Refugee Boy”, published in 2010. The memoir recalls his childhood growing up during the Cuban Revolution.

Kent County and West Michigan asked for $230 million from the federal government to prepare for natural disasters like the Grand River’s flooding in 2013. Officials pointed out that if the Grand Strategy plan is selected, it would mean less local money be involved in the project. The Grant applications are due October 27 and should be awarded in early 2016.

According to The Washington Times, ham, sausage and other processed meats can lead to colon, stomach, and other cancers. The World Health Organization’s cancer agency put red meats in the same category as cigarettes or asbestos. They also reported that grilling, pan-frying, or other high-temperature methods of cooking red meat produce the highest amounts of chemicals suspected to cause cancer.

A fierly crash between a truck and a bus full of retirees killed 43 people and injured four others in southwest France. Only eight people, including the driver of the bus, escaped after the driver opened the door, but others were trapped as flames quickly consumed the vehicles. This collision is France’s deadliest road accident in more than 30 years.

World News

Liquid water found on Mars

Letters from Rome Aquinas student shares her experience studying abroad in Italy

Cape Town, South Africa: Riot police fired tear gas at hundreds of students during university fees protest.

COURTESY THEATLANTIC

Mars isn’t so different after all: Scientists confirmed that briny water flows seasonally and caused these dark streaks on the Red Planet.

By Tom Doetsch The Saint Reporter

COURTESY FLICKR

By Natalie Smith The Saint Reporter I a m st a n d i n g a t m y r e g u l a r “ Wi n e B a r ” t u c k e d j u s t a r o u n d t he co rn e r o f S t . Pe t e r’s s q u a r e , jockeying to place my order in choppy Italian: “Cappuccino, per fa v ore . ” M y f ee t a r e a l r e a d y killing me, but it is cheaper if you do not sit down. This is how t h e I t a l i a n s d o i t . I t i s j u s t a minute bef ore my d r i n k a r r i ve s on a s a u c e r wi t h a s m a l l s p o o n .

I st and a n d d ri n k it t h e r e a t t h e bar, n o mo re t h a n t h r e e s i p s o f t he b est c of f ee i n yo u r l i fe . T h e n I scoop the delicious foam out like an American, but I do not care be c a use i t i s t h e b e s t p a r t .

There are so many new cultural norms to pick up, but if you a re wi l l i n g t o wa t c h a n d list en, you c a n d o it . We ’ve b e e n here since the October 3 but it feels like much longer with all the new experiences packed into each day. Our very first day here consisted of a 5 a.m. wak e- up, wh i l e we we r e s t i l l a l l suffering jet lag, an hour long bus ride, and a Papal Mass inside St. Peter’s. Our motivation to g e t u p a t o - d a r k - t h i r t y wa s t h e promise of a cornetto (the best versio n o f wh a t we w o u l d c a l l a croissa n t ) o r a s t h e s e m i n a r i a n s call it “ su ga r a n d a i r . ” We we r e fort un a t e t o h a ve t i ck e t s a n d b e able to sit on the aisle so we were literally within arm’s reach of Pope Fra n c i s a s h e wa l k e d b y .

Every day yields new lessons and memories, whether it is which stop to get off of as we make our way to class at the Angelicum, or that there is an extra charge for putting tables together at a restaurant. I’m working on not tripping over the cobblestones and tiled streets and starting to zone out the constant and most annoying sirens in the world (the police sirens actually sound like the bee-do bee-do noise that minions make) . I t i s a t ri a l b y fi r e i n t h e words of an Aquinas senior, Mary Carra, “ I ’ ve n ever r i d d e n a ci t y bus be f ore . O r t ra i n. Or t r a m . Or anyt hin g. A n d I ’ ve d o n e i t a l l i n t he pa st wee k. ” Each orange sunrise over the Piazza del Gianicolo brings a fresh day in the eternal city and ea c h d a y i s d i f fe r e n t . I t ca n be ove rwh el mi n g a t t i m e s b u t i n the wise words of Rome program advisor, Dr. Connell: “Semper incipit , ” mea n i n g a l wa y s b e g i n .

When you manage to bring that spirit of beginning into your everyday life, wherever you might be, each moment is someth i n g t rea su re d , s o m e t h i n g magic a l .

Recently, NASA has found evidence that shows liquid water flows on Mars. This feeds into the eternal conspiracy of whether or not mankind is alone in the universe.

“Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) provides the strongest e v i d e n c e y e t t h a t l i q u i d wa t e r flows intermittently on presentday Mars,” NASA posted on their we b s i t e o n S e p t e m b e r 2 8 . S i n c e then, newspapers like The New York Times, The Huffington Post and others have jumped on the story.

The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter uses an imaging spectrometer, which aids scientists in “detect[ing] signatures of hydrated minerals on slopes,” said NASA. For a long time humanity has wondered whether or not we are alone in the universe, and for the first time in recorded history there is viable proof that life could exist outside of planet Earth.

Kenneth Chang, a writer for The New York Times said, “John M. Grunsfeld, astronaut and associate administrator of NASA’s Science Mission Directorate, talked of sending a spacecraft in the 2020’s to one of these regions, perhaps with experiments to directly look for life.”

Space explorations in the past have usually been to examine different planetary landscapes and environments. Now, imagine if astronauts were sent into space with

COURTESY THEGUARDIAN

By Ty Smith The Saint Reporter

the specific task of communicating with other life forms.

“Using an imaging spectrometer on MRO, researchers detected signatures of hydrated minerals on slopes where mysterious streaks are seen on the Red Planet,” NASA said.

They go on to talk about how salts on the mountain slopes m i g h t h a ve a c o r r e l a t i o n t o t h e development of liquid water. Salts l o we r t h e f r e e z i n g t e m p e r a t u r e allowing the ice to melt faster, especially in warmer weather.

“Our quest on Mars has been to ‘follow the water,’ in our search for life in the universe, and now we have convincing science that validates what we’ve long suspected,” said John Grunsfeld. Yes it is important to understand where the water came from and how the climate allowed it, but the underlying motivation is to search for extraterrestrial life.

“It’s already known that there is water in ice form at Mars’ poles, as well as water bound to minerals beneath the surface of the planet.

NASA also believes Mars was home to a massive ocean some 4.3 billion years ago,” said Ed Mazza, a writer from The Huffington Post.

Since there was liquid water that long ago, it possible there might’ve been lifeforms that could’ve gone extinct, when the water ran out.

They say history repeats itself.

CANADA—The 2015 Federal Elections resulted in a clear majority for the liberal party, CBC reports. Justin Trudeau will take the office of prime minister. This means that Canada will have a new prime minister for the first time in nearly ten years. Trudeau promised to implement a series of tax changes within his first 100 days, including hikes for the highest earners and cuts for middle-income Canadians.

He also promised to revamp child benefits, legalize marijuana, and to begin electoral reform. Trudeau has pledged to limit Canada’s involvement in Syria and the Middle East, and informed President Obama of his decision to withdraw Canadian fighter jets from air strikes against ISIS hours after taking his new post.

SOUTH AFRICA—Riot police have used stun grenades and tear gas to disperse protesting students outside parliament in Cape Town, ABC News reports. The students were demonstrating against rising university fees. The students forced their way into the parliament complex and gathered at the entrance of the national assembly building, and police tried to force them back. Protesters kicked police shields and threw bottles during the clashes and sang popular protest songs and antiapartheid slogans. They also demanded to speak to Education Minister Blade Nzimande. The goal of this protest was to disrupt the reading of Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene’s interim budget.

SINGAPORE, KONG HEE—The founder and head pastor of popular

megachurch City Harvest Church was found guilty of misappropriating more than $35.5 million in donations to support his wife’s singing career, ABC News reports. He was convicted with five other church leaders. The State Court found that they stole 24 million Singapore dollars ($17 million) designated for building and investmentrelated purposes through sham bond investments, and that they used a further 26 million dollars ($18.5 million) to hide their first embezzlement.

“They were not genuine transactions because the accused persons controlled these transactions,” See Kee Onn, the presiding judge, said of the proceedings.

“Evidence points to a finding that they knew that they were acting dishonestly, and I am unable to conclude otherwise.”

No date for sentencing has been set.

They face a maximum of ten years in jail and a fine for falsifying accounts and a maximum of a life sentence for criminal breach of trust.

SAUDI ARABIA—The New York Times reports that an activist has been sentenced to ten years in prison and barred from international travel for tenyears after that. The activist, AbelKarim al-Khadar, is a professor of Islamic Studies from the conservative Qassim Province. He has been under arrest since April 2013 and has been charged with disobeying the ruler, founding a human rights organization and supporting protests. He was considered among the most vocal critics of religious extremism and militancy, and posted videos online giving lectures in support of women’s rights and religious coexistence. He is the third rights activist to be sentenced. to prison in the past week.

Apple v. Microsoft

By Natalie Jo Przybyla Staff Writer

Latest technology faces off

In one corner there is Apple with a new concept for a gadget small enough to fit on your finger, but not big enough to play Flappy Bird.

In the other corner, Microsoft tries to outwit Apple with a folding keyboard in their new laptop. And, off in the sidelines, consumers spectate: What do we get our millennials for Christmas?

Te c h n o l o g y i n o u r c a p i t a l i s t society has become more stylish lately. The shoe company, Nike, made self-lacing sneakers just like Marty McFly’s in Back to the Future. MasterCard made a payment verification program, which will only let a payment through if the purchaser is proved to be the cardholder with a selfie. Apple, of course, has made the Apple Watch, which is priced between $400 and $17,000, and Apple now has the concept for a new iRing. Microsoft is also jumping on the style bandwagon with their new Surface Book.

Apple’s iRing will be an accessory for the iPod, which has been n e g l e c t e d o ve r t h e ye a r s a s t h e iPhone became more popular. The

News Editors

iRing will have features like tracking heart rates and being able to change the song on your finger instead of on your iPod. The iRing might seem useless and redundant to some consumers, but it is all part of the company goal to bring efficient and stylish technology to our hands.

Apple is also gaining a lot of good press for the Apple TV, which runs off of applications instead of cable. The device is innovative and practical considering how cable viewing has gone down since video streaming applications such as Hulu and Netflix became more popular. And now, the Apple TV offers a larger viewing option for applications like Netflix, so you no longer have the fear dropping your iPad on your face while streaming.

Microsoft has been caught in the turbulence caused by Apple’s hype the past few years. The competitor company may still have a few tricks up their sleeve besides more tablets a n d Wi n d o w s 1 0 . T h a t i s r i g h t : Microsoft made a new laptop, which doubles as a tablet. See, the laptop called the Surface Book is different from the other 2-in-1 tablets because the screen does not detach from the keyboard. The new laptop has a sleek new design which looks

Anna Musiyenko and Chucky Blackmore E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

suspiciously like a MacBook, but unlike the MacBook, the Surface Book bends in half to accommodate for its 3D modeling feature with AutoCAD for all the architects out there.

Microsoft is also coming out with the Surface Pro 4, which is similar to the Surface Pro 3, but it weighs less and is once again thinner with about an hour more of battery life.

No matter if one is a supporter

Phone (616) 632-2975

of Apple or Microsoft, technology in general is becoming better, more reliable, and more aesthetically pleasing. Soon the days of tying our shoes and turning pages in books will be history. And, hopefully one day someone will fix buffering.

Website www.thesaintaq.com

COURTESY ULDISSPROGIS

3

NEWS

THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2015

International Student Spotlight

The Man, The Myth, The Legend:

Elliot Walker

By Yashowanto N. Ghosh Staff Writer

arrangements here. Instead of living in a dorm he would’ve shared a flat, similar to an apartment he Elliot Walker is his name, tennis would’ve had his own bedroom and is his game. He’s a freshman who a shared kitchen. is originally from the United “The pros of living in America Kingdom and more specifically a r e : g o o d s u m m e r we a t h e r , i t ’ s Manchester, a good life and yes, experience, ladies, he’s experiencing single and a different ready to culture is mingle. a l wa y s g o o d “I came to become to Aquinas more openbecause I minded, not l o ve p l a y i n g to mention tennis and this will look wanted to great on my k e e p o n r e s u m e , ” p l a y i n g .

Wa l k e r s a i d .

T h e r e Among the isn’t much cons he said, collegiate poor winter tennis back weather and home so he does not I decided see family or to come to friends for the States,” long periods Wa l k e r s a i d . at a time, He would which is hard go on to talk on him. about how W a l k e r he talked didn’t know with various International Spotlight: Elliot Walker is a freshman from the United Kingdom and a future any of his c o a c h e s star of the men’s tennis team. roommates from a lot coming into of different Novak Djokovic or Roger Federer. A q u i n a s b u t t h e y a l l g e t a l o n g colleges, then liked Aquinas the Walker said he likes going to great. They do a lot together such m o s t , a n d h e r e h e i s . Wa l k e r ’ s c o l l e g e i n a d i f f e r e n t c o u n t r y as play pool at the moose, eat at f a v o r i t e c l a s s i s F i r s t Ye a r because it forces him to mature. Wege, and of course occasionally Experience and he’s leaning U n l i k e s o m e o f h i s f r i e n d s , h i s play video games. He’s happy to be towards majoring in business p a r e n t s a r e n ’ t r i g h t d o w n t h e placed with such great guys whom because “it is a general degree in road or a couple hours away but he considers to be close as brothers, terms of a job afterwards. It works are separated by a whole ocean. and is eager to continue exploring for a lot of different areas around H e wa s s u r p r i s e d b y t h e l i v i n g America. the world.”

Traveling the world is something Walker would like to do sometime in the near future. Like the vast majority of college students he isn’t very sure what he wants to do after graduation. His dream job is to be a professional tennis player like

By Tom Doetsch The Saint Reporter

Clothesline Project: Bearing Witness to Violence against Women

violence; likewise, while the t-shirts are displayed without wearers, the Project makes visible the often invisible lives Throughout the year, the Aquinas of those affected by violence against College Women’s women. As Center holds many such, it is about different womenhonoring these related events lives.” to recognize the After years importance of of suffering numerous issues that abuse in may go unnoticed s i l e n c e , otherwise. This year women were the Women’s Studies b r o u g h t Center held the together to Clothesline Project in express their downstairs Wege. need to be The Clothesline heard. During Project has been t h e Vi e t n a m around since 1990 and Wa r 5 8 , 0 0 0 originated in Cape soldiers were Cod, Massachusetts. killed. While The program was these brave formed to bring soldiers were COURTESY ADRIANNA TRICHE attention to the issue fighting for of violence against f r e e d o m women. It is a way Clothesline Project: Women’s Studies Center held the Clothesline Project in i n a n o t h e r downstairs Wege to bring attention to violence against women. for women and their country, here families to express in America, their shared feelings because of their sexual orientation; 51,000 women were fighting their by decorating shirts and hanging and black for women attacked for own war and lost. them on a clothesline--this acts as a political reasons.

The issue of women’s violence is testimony to the violence women have Dr. Amy Dunham Strand, Director one that has been downgraded and faced and continue to face. of the Jane Hibbard Idema Women’s made to seem not as shocking as it According to the clothesline project Studies Center,said, “In its twenty- really is. The Clothesline Project is website, each woman tells her own fifth year, the Clothesline Project is one form of addressing the women’s story in a unique way using words or an important, longstanding testimony fight against violence. It will not artwork to decorate her shirt. Each to the problem of violence against stop the violence completely, but will shirt color represents the different women here and around the world. bring attention to the plight of women type of violence endured: white for At root, though it is a ‘silent’ display around the world. the women who have died; yellow of t-shirts, the Project is really about or beige for battered or assaulted raising a collective voice against women; red, pink, and orange for survivors of rape and sexual assault; blue and green for survivors of incest and sexual abuse; purple for the women who have been attacked

By Adrianna Triche The Saint Reporter

My Pants

Writer Spotlight

a poem by Tom Doetsch Finally, both had come on just right One warm one cold, it felt very odd One tight, one loose, it was quite the sight I was on my way out for the night When I realized, it was all a facade.

Two paths diverged in a dark plane I only wish I could go one way Curiosity snagged away my pain I had to understand the arcane Thus I set out, on my way to play.

I slid into the first one, feeling a dark chill It was comforting, yet lifeless and stiff I looked down – all the way downhill Its twin was loud, like a fire drill I walked closer, till I tripped into the cliff!

This material I was wearing, Was no more than a sham!

The damn thing was tearing So I stood there comparing Till I threw on some shorts then had to scram.

News Editor Anna Musiyenko & Chucky Blackmore

Contemporary Writers Series: Carlos Eire

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

Carlos Eire will read from his creative nonfiction at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 10, in the Wege Ballroom at Aquinas College for the second event of the current season of Contemporary Writers Series.

Eire’s latest memoir, published in 2010, is Learning to Die in Miami: Confessions of a Refugee Boy, a sequel to his earlier memoir, Waiting for Snow in Havana: Confessions of a Cuban Boy, which won the National Book Award for Nonfiction in 2003. If you are interested in literature, this should be an evening you will enjoy.

Both memoirs are based upon Eire’s experiences around the Cuban Revolution, which interrupted his childhood as a son of a Cuban judge living in Miramar, Havana, and led to his and his older brother’s evacuation to Miami as part of Operation Peter Pan (and to their subsequent lives in the USA). If you are interested in political science, this will be your chance to meet a man who has experienced your subject first hand.

Eire’s mother tongue is Spanish and he learned English as a second language—first at school in Cuba, then as a refugee in the USA—and he writes in English. In Learning to Die in Miami, he includes his experience of becoming bilingual. If you are

interested in languages, this reading will have something for you.

Like many writers, Eire has a day job: He is also T. Lawrason Riggs Professor of History and Religious Studies at Yale University. In Learning to Die in Miami, he describes how he, when he was still in elementary school and living in a foster home in Coral Gables, decided to become a historian.

Further in the book, he also describes how he, when he was in junior high and living with the family of an uncle in Bloomington, Ill., had a mystical experience that led him to specialize in the history of Catholicism. He even narrates scenes from graduate school and his later life as a professor. If you are interested in history, theology, and/ or catholic studies, this will be your chance to watch a distinguished scholar of your subject, and—depending upon which passages from his books he reads—you might even hear something about your subject at his reading.

Even if you are not into any of those things—literature, languages, political science, history, theology, catholic studies—even then, this will your chance to come see an event that should be interesting in that many different ways.

Also, this will be your last chance this semester to attend an event of the Contemporary Writers Series: The remaining readings this season will feature memoirist Mardi Jo Link on Tuesday, March 15, 2016, and poet Edward Hirsch on Thursday, April 14, 2016.

Student Senate Update AQ Student Senate serves students throughout the 20152016 academic year

COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS

By Tom Doetsch The Saint Reporter The Rapid is increasing its Aquinas fee from $.90 to $1.05; however, Student Senate has made a deal with the bus system so Aquinas students only have to pay $.25 upon showing his or her school I.D. Student Senate President Jake Eccleston said, “Student Senate allocated $3,000 from our budget to cover the increase so that our students don’t feel the burden of paying more than the 25 cents.”

They realize that college students most of all aren’t made of money so they’re making matters better by trying and keep as much money in their constituent’s pockets as possible. The regular Rapid fee recently rose twenty-five cents to $1.75, but Student Senate is working hard to keep it at a mere quarter for their constituents.

Aside from brokering the deal with The Rapid, the 2015 Student Senate plans on becoming more jovial and sociable. A sophomore studen t Senator Naomi Schmidt said, “The number one goal of Senate this year is to connect with the students. We want as many people as possible to know that they can come to us at any time, to our constituent hours, and to our meetings.”

Student Senate is prioritizing everything going on at the moment,

Phone (616) 632-2975

and connecting with the students is at the top of the list, especially since most college students are trying to balance homework, social life, job, and getting enough sleep.

Another sophomore student Senator Rebecca Kurkowski said, “This year student senate is trying to be as transparent as we can by letting the student body know what we’re working on and how we’re serving them.”

Did you know Student Senate co-sponsored the Eboo Patel event? Eboo Patel founded and is president of Interfaith Youth Core, an international organization that encourages religious pluralism. This is just another way that this year’s Student Senate is improving life for Aquinas students. Student senate Vice Chair junior Zoë Collenburg said, “We are also still staying in contact with Campus Ministry to continue to promote Interfaith. We worked with them heavily to bring Eboo Patel to campus, and we wish to keep that spirit going.”

Student Senate is working hard each and every day to make Aquinas a better place for all. From reducing fees to connecting more with constituents, they’re certainly getting the job done.

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

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THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2015

Save your unfounded judgments about Lamar Odom

FROM THE CROWD

APPLAUSE TO...

Trader Joe’s, for finally opening shop in Grand Rapids; Adele, for gracing us (once again) with her majestic presence; Grand Rapids Comic Con, for giving Grand Rapids its healthy dose of geek; Robinette’s, for supplying us with our much needed cider and doughnuts; Service learning trips, for going out and doing good in the world; Bernese mountain dogs, for existing and be cute and fluffy; Halloween, for all of the clearance candy it’ll provide on November 1st; Fulton Street Construction, for still not being finished.

By Nick Howe The Saint Reporter When news broke that Lamar Odom had been found unconscious at a brothel outside of Las Vegas earlier this month, mass media of all forms went rampant. TMZ was in the hospital snooping around for updates. Kendall Jenner was tweeting “please don’t go.”

The 24-hour news stations were giving status updates hourly. Unfortunately, the attention it brought was for all of the wrong reasons. Today, Odom is most famous for his relationship with Khloé Kardashian, but he was never a stranger that randomly crossed paths with her. Odom was famous, talented, and successful long before Khloé.

As a Lakers fan since elementary school, Odom was one of my favorite players. At 6’10”, it was amazing how well Odom could handle the ball in transition, whipping it around like a yo-yo. His unique skillset made him invaluable to any team; he is a two-time NBA champion and was Sixth Man of the Year four short years ago. But it was his attitude off the court that truly made Lamar Odom special. A silver lining to the tragedy that unfolded was the unleashed affinity everyone around the league felt for him. Magic Johnson noted that every season Lamar played in LA, he would buy each rookie two or three

Hot dogs, for containing human DNA; Couples’ costumes, for reminding us of how we’re all so single; Cultural appropriations, for bringing out all of the racist Halloween costumes; The New York Times, for asking its readers if they would kill baby Hitler; Jennifer Connell, for attempting to sue her 12-year-old nephew for $127,000; Pop-Tart non-toasters, for missing out on all of the gooey goodness that is the toasted Pop-Tart;

By Natalie Jo Przybyla Staff Writer While supporters and opposers of gun laws fight over regulatory bills, police brutality, and mass shootings, new acts of terror are being printed in our newspapers every day. The cities aren’t safe, the schools aren’t safe, churches aren’t safe— we need a hero.

One could turn to law enforcement for help. There are some great cops out there who save people from collapsing buildings and cats from tall trees. But there are some cops like in Eaton County, Michigan where an officer pulled over a young man for flashing his brights and ended up shooting him multiple times. The young man did not survive. It goes to show that one cat’s hero is another man’s villain.

AQ fire alarms, for constantly going off; Winter jackets, for making us all look clunky and awkward.

theSaint 2015-2016 E D I T O R I A L B O A R D

Culture Editor

Mayra Monroy Anna Musiyenko Chucky Blackmore Abbi Racine Adviser

Sports Editor Managing Editor Opinion Editor Creative Director

Taylor Hodges Aaron Campbell Mackenzie Murphy Emily Higham

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 32 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

custom suits. Sideline reporter Ken Berger pointed out that mid-game, when Lamar made a basket, he would hear cheers and “Nice shot!” from the stands. Odom would go out of his way to find the fans in the crowd to personally thank them. Everyone who knew Odom loved him, and never negatively associated him with his drug abuse.

Behind the troubled, drug abuser is someone who hurts beyond a foreseeable repair. The “Kardashian reality star” is the one whose father was addicted to heroin, whose mother died of colon cancer when he was 12, who attended three high schools, had his first college scholarship revoked before the fall semester of his freshman year, became a subject of three college investigations, declared for the NBA draft, tried unsuccessfully to pull out of the draft, was picked by arguably the worst franchise in sports, violated the league’s anti-drug policy twice within eight months and after finally getting his life together, went home to New York City for an aunt’s funeral and wound up burying his 6 1/2-month-old son due to sudden infant death syndrome, then getting robbed at gunpoint. This past summer, two of his best friends died, and his marriage was all but over.

When I first heard news of Odom’s hospitalization, I personally grieved

for a man I do not know. Not because I condone his behavior, or even because he was one of my favorite athletes growing up. Rather, I hurt for the man who must rationalize cocaine and opioid consumption to ignore his realities, his undying, stinging conscious.

What we need to understand about Lamar Odom is not that he is tied to the most famous of families in Hollywood and makes terrible life choices, but there is a real person behind the scenes that has been destroyed by his past, and seeks a breath of happiness by disconnecting himself through drugs. As we begin to attack the opiate-abuse problem in America, Odom serves as a good lesson for rehabilitation efforts. Instead of criticism, public shaming, and viewing addicts as criminals who need to be jailed, let us offer these wounded individuals love, empathy, and support. When traumatic, stressful things happen to addicts, they consume drugs to cope with the pain. I would think, then, that bringing these people even more stress and hardships would be the last thing you would want to do. Save your judgments for people like Lamar Odom, because if you don’t have someone close to you who struggles with drug addiction already, you certainly will at some point.

Where are the heroes?

HECKLES TO...

Editor-in-Chief News Editors

4

By Abigale Racine Culture Editor

Some believe even the government has turned against them. Scandals like that of Michigan Representatives Cindy Gamrat and Todd Courser, were the duo used taxpayer money to cover infidelity in their marriages shows how citizens are valued by state officials.

Voters like you and I elect these people. Even if politicians were always honest, the voter can being misinformed or careless about candidates, especially when it comes to local elections. Citizens have the power to vote or not vote, but that power is being misused and abused. We can’t save ourselves with politics.

Is there an action to take if we lack actual superheroes? There is always vigilante justice. Citizens can fix their own issues, solve their own crimes. Citizens can be the witness, victim, prosecutor, judge and executioner all with the help of a permit and a bullet.

In Detroit on October 6, a wom-

an opened fire on an unarmed shoplifter in a Home Depot parking lot.

The shoplifter got away and no one was hurt, but the situation brought up a controversy about concealed weapons:Should the citizens be allowed to posses such deadly weapons in places as public as Home Depot?

Innocent people were put in danger.

People are concerned about being shot, but they refuse to take away a weapon. For the love of all things American— we can’t say bomb on a plane, but God forbid they take away our guns!

What do we do in a place where we can’t look to the people running our country? We can’t trust our police forces who are supposed to be our heroes. We can’t even trust ourselves. It’s an issue that probably will never go away. There’s always going to be the good with the bad no matter who has the guns. All we can focus on is keeping safe.

Why jokes about PMS are never funny

There are plenty of jokes casually dropped into everyday conversations regarding Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS).

Presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton is often the butt of many of these jokes. I should know, I used to crack some of these wisecracks myself.

Until this summer I learned that I may have, like many other women in my family, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder- aka an extreme form of PMS. What, is that a thing? Yes it is, thank you for asking. And yes, it’s a nightmare.

It is common knowledge for those who know me well that from seven to 13 days out of the month, I am out of commission. For a few days before my menstrual cycle, and a couple days through the duration of my period, my hormone levels drop and my body becomes clinically-depressed. If you do the math that’s 84-156 days out of the year that I am in a battle against myself.

I notice when my “favorite” time of the month is on its way.

First is the chemical drop and I feel something is off, then the flashing white lights settle in and I welcome the migraine. The cherry on top is,

without fail, throwing up on the first day of my period. Don’t even get me started on the excrutiating cramps that leave me withering on the floor.

The remaining time of this lovely cycle, my nerves are shot. I am anxious and I have an inability to concentrate. The littlest situation will set me off into a hurricane of emotion. While usually being a self-reliant, confident person, I become extremely insecure of myself and I question the validity of relationships of those closest to me.

Despite my best efforts, I can’t control it. It’s almost as if I become a different person and I have extreme difficulty even getting out of bed in the morning.

I knew I had to do something once my condition started to affect my working and personal relationships. Honestly there is still tension until I notice a lift, when the chemical balance is restored. Even colors and scenery seem brighter– like how one appreciates their good health after recovering from a bad cold.

I used to use PMS jokes as a coping mechanism– as I use humor for most situations. Now, it is a different situation and I am outraged whenever I hear PMS as an excuse or is referred to in a jokingly manner. It is not entirely their fault, they just may not understand how serious a condition can be and, nat-

Opinion Editor: Mackenzie Murphy Email: saint.editors@aquinas.edu Phone: (616) 560-1287

Website: thesaintaq.com

urally, there is the patriarchal culture that is prevalent, wanting to portray males as the victims of the onset of PMS. Hardly not.

Granted, I have self-diagnosed myself with PMDD through intensive research, but I have been talking to my doctor about my situation. It is a long process to diagnose because it’s hard to distinguish between regular PMS and PMDD; I have been keeping a journal, noting my most severe mood swings and have been discussing other birth control options that may assist me.

Given my family’s history, this diagnosis is prevalent in our own young twenties, so I have a feeling that my suspicions are not too inaccurate.

There really isn’t a “cure” either, there’s only learning how to live with it better.

I am sharing my experiences because I don’t want to continue to live this way, nor do I want others to think that they are alone in this situation, because they are not.

I also want others to realize that hormone fluctuations are not something to laugh at.

Now, am I going to blow up Russia like Clinton would if she was in office? Am I trying to use extreme PMS an excuse? God, I hope not, but don’t test me by joking about it– I’m just trying to get through the day like everyone else.

culture Television: Fallon injured again

During a recent visit to Harvard U n i ve r s i t y , l a t e n i g h t c o m e d i a n J i m m y Fallon injured his right hand, accidently tripping over a fan while holding a bottle of Jägermeister. Fallon injured his left hand earlier this June. Hopefully the funnyman can catch a break soon.

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THE SAINT |WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2015

Local: Free tickets to Grand Rapids Opera REQUIEM available to students

Music: Robin Thicke admits he did in fact blur his lines during interviews

Those looking for a culutral event to satisfy your Humanities class requirement or just simply enjoy the opera should be delighted to know that FREE dress rehearsal tickets are available to Giuseppe Verdi’s score REQUIEM at the DeVos Performance Hall are available in the Art and Music Center. The rehearsal is Thursday, October 29 at 7:30 p.m.

Controversal “Blurred Lines” vocalist Robin Thicke certainly has had an embarassing couple of years: between the VMA’s, a very public divorce and a lawsuit. Recently the 38 year old revealed that he “didn’t do a single interview last year without being high on both [alcohol and Vicodin].” Yikes.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT >> STARBUCKS

PSA: A new holiday-themed Frappuccinno flavor sounds scary good and will be available as of Wednesday, October 28. It is a white chocolate mocha which is topped by a bright red, blood-like raspberry syrup and whipped cream.

COURTESY STARBUCKS

Free music: Supporting or strangling our local music

Savory Saints: Harmony Hall far from the wurst

By Joey Frendo The Saint Reporter The ability to stream your favorite band’s newest album for free is a music enthusiast’s heaven. Having the ability to play any artist, any album, at any place or any time is what streaming services such as Pandora, iHeartRadio, and a multitude of others allow their users to do, giving users a world of endless music at their fingertips. However, when taking into account what it means for local musicians, it appears it might be too good to be true.

Popular acts from Father John Mistyto Taylor Swifthave made much to do about streaming services not adequately compensating the plays that their songs are receiving via streaming music apps, most notably Spotify. Some, namely Swift, have removed their music from the site altogether in protest of the cent¬-per¬-play pay structure employed by Spotify. How does this affect our local bands, though?

For acts breaking out on the local scene and trying to make noise regionally, every song play counts. It’s those bands, the up-¬and¬-coming bands that scrounge around for loose dollars in couch cushions and van seats just to pay gas for gigs and recording time, that seem like they have the most to lose. In asking local bands about how streaming services affect their ability to make a living, many answered in way that equated streaming services to a necessary evil.

“Streaming music as a consumer is incredibly convenient, and it’s helped me discover a ton of new music,” said Bigfoot Buffalomember Kyle Brown, who is front man for the Grand Rapids bluegrass/folk fusion band who released their self titled debut LP to a hearty Founder’s crowd earlier this fall. “However, as an artist it’s a joke. It’s better than pirating, but not by much.” Not minutes into our conversation, after checking his band’s Spotify stats and their subsequent payouts, Brown interjected that Bigfoot Buffaloplays (despite being respectably in the low hundreds, a pretty good number for a local band who just released their album) they had resulted in them being been paid a whopping ten cents. “But the use of Spotify has definitely increased my knowledge of music and who/what I listen to, and in turn that’s helped me as an artist,” said Brown, quick to add “I feel like the more I know and the more I listen to, the better writer I become. So it’s so hard to demonize something that’s helped me discover so much.”

There was a prickled nature to Brown’s reply that no doubt showed mixed feelings on the role of service in the music industry, citing that while the ability to stream their record was certainly helpful in adding new fans while helping hone his own craft by allowing him to consume loads of music himself, it was still unfair to those who need it most. Other artists seemed less torn by the merits of the streaming services, point to their potential access to fans.

“For a band like mine it’s a great way to get our music to places we’d never be able to get it without a big distribution deal,” said Devin Weber, lead for Grand Rapids’ rock outfit Devin and the Dead Frets. From a band who helped headline Founder’s Fest 2015, as well as recently being handpicked to open for local rock legends Wayland at The Intersection, those are heavy words. Spotify has become an important vehicle for local bands to reach fans, new and old, and get them out to shows, and it does so by utilizing a tool they are already using to listen to their favorite bands. Weber went on the add the importance of playing live shows, noting that at the climate in the music industry today demands bands put fans in venues in order to make money, and that if streaming services help make new fans that will ultimately come out to a show and support the band that he’s just “happy that someone wants to listen.”

Perhaps, though, Brother Adams’ Jairmi Driesenga said it best: “I think streaming services face a lot of snobbery from the artistic communities, but they’re here to stay and it’s because they’re practical, so I think it’s important to focus on the strengths and benefits.” Ultimately, it seems as though like it or not, streaming services have value in many areas and are here to stay. Sure, they could pay artists better, but the bad doesn’t seem to outweigh the good for these local bands, especially if listening on Spotify gets you hooked on the music and gets you out to see them at their next show.

COURTESY MITTEN BREWERY

Rolling with a weiner: Satisfy for your dietary demands of beer and brats at Harmony’s new location on Bridge St.

By Abigale Racine Culture Editor Popular Eastown destination Harmony Brewing has something new to offer to the beer culture in Beer City USA, expanding its business to the Northwest side of Grand Rapids and recently opening its doors to Harmony Hall earlier this month.

For those who appreciate large

quantities of links (both meaty and meatless) and an extensive tap list, this is the ideal hangout spot for you.

Unlike its sister business, Harmony Hall has an abundance of seating in a woodland castle-like environment, capacitating up to 450 beer drinkers , while providing onlookers with incredible views of the West side.

While Harmony Brewing will always serve as the go-to pizza option

in my woodfired heart, after visiting Harmony Hall, I may have a new favorite hangout spot.

Harmony Hall is hip and cozy, and features eccentric wall art of hoppy deer. Thankfully the Hall offers food that is just as scrumptious as its predecessor Harmony Brewing.

On my first visit, I had originally ordered the vegan creole sausage

Artist Spotlight: Jessica in the Rainbow bongos, and harmonizing her vocals.

It’s refreshing to hear about a rising artist that made a name for herself very nearby. “Catalysts” was recorded with Ian Gorman of La Luna Recording & Sound in Kalamazoo, MI. This particular album was nominated by listeners in Grand Rapids for Best Album by a New Artist and Album of the Year. She was even a finalist for Best Jazz Album. She’s not exactly jazz, but it’s the closest genre to slide her into.

Her piece at ArtPrize, “Wake Up (& Apologize (to yourself))”, is one of the songs off “CataCOURTESY JESSICA IN THE RAINBOW Wake up: Some may recog- nize Jessica in the lysts”. It encomRainbow from her entry in ArtPrize, check out her piano passes her familiarity with piano, cello, alto

By Haley Brink vocals, harmonies, and Staff Writer space sounds.

Jessica in the Rainbow, othHer musical piece erwise known as Jessica Fogle, in ArtPrize was meant is a singer, a songwriter, and a to examine the ways we classically-trained pianist. She all try to hurt ourselves has an MFA in Musical Theand question our judgeatre Writing from NYU’s Tisch ments. We do this to ourSchool of the Arts. selves to self-destruct Not only has she released and to improve ourher first studio album “Du Bist selves. The point of her Einen Fogle!” in 2010, but she piece was was to help also created a soundtrack to a musical/movie. She people find the beauty won 15 awards on “Were the World Mine”, one inside themselves. of which was awarded for Best Music in the 2008 As Fogle says, “The Nashville Film Fest. She re-released her album goal of my music is to fa“Melancholy Frog” in 2011 in Chicago. To say the cilitate self-exploration least, this girl is amazing. and discovery, along She made a name for herself in Chicago, playwith healing the heart. I ing at local venues. Fogle had been performing all hope to be a catalyst for over the big city, and opened for Cheer-Accident at the cathartic process of The Hideout. She even got her music to play on the healing, gentleness, and radio on WXRT. self-love in the lives of Fogle released her first album, “Catalysts”, unothers.” der the name of Jessica in The Rainbow in 2014. She Jessica in the Rainhad her own little tour in West Michigan, Chicago, bow is definitely a treaand Minneapolis. sure to be found. Her en“Catalysts” is mostly piano. It is aged and try in ArtPrize 2015 can soothing. She sings along, creating a matured, be found on the ArtPrize jazzy alto feel. She wasn’t alone making the album website. Give it a listen, though, she featured Hunter Zhao on the cello and you won’t regret it.

Maddie & Daphne Jackson on the banjo-ukulele, Culture Editor Abbi Racine

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

but, due to popular demand since its opening, they were out of this meat-free sausage.

Instead, I chose the boudin blanca pork and chicken based brat accented with a cream sauce, grilled onions and fresh thyme. Although I was disappointed in not receiving my original order, the boudin blanc far exceeded my expectations and I was more than satisfied with this delicate sausage.

My adventurous dining companion likes to keeps things spicy, so he ordered the Oaxacan chorizo sausage which proved to be a walk on the wild side.

This seasoned chorizo features Harmony’s own Oaxacan style adobo, ancho and guajillo peppers with jalapeno and cilantro.

One bite of this spicy sausage caused me to gulp down my beer quickly, so it is not recommended for those weak of heart or of palette.

Both sausages were served on an incredible homemade bun with a side of house made fries. Rave reviews of the two types of potato salad were common amongst the crowd. Basically, be prepared to consume many carbs during your Harmony Hall experience.

Other additions on the menu include soups and salads. Harmony Hall is simply delicious, with everything being house-made, including the butchering of sustainably-raised hogs, to the baking of bread and, of course, the production of beer.

Visit Harmony Hall, it certainly won’t be the wurst night of your life.

No offer for The Intern: Sorry, De Niro

COURTESY US MAGAZINE

Lack of qualifications: Despite its cast members, The Intern leaves a lot to be deserved.

By Megan Sarnacki The Saint Reporter Although recently-released film The Intern seems appealing as a fun concept for a movie with the cast of Academy Award winners, it only disappoints.

Written and directed by Nancy Meyers, The Intern is a comedy with a twist on the average intern. Wanting to try something new and exciting, Ben Whittaker (Robert De Niro), a 70-yearold retired widower, starts a community outreach program in which senior citizens intern at a thriving fashion start-up.

After being assigned as the personal intern to Jules Ostin (Anne Hathaway), the founder and CEO of About the Fit, Ben seems to win over everyone at the company, except for Jules. He even becomes a wise father figure to many of the younger workers and develops a romantic relationship with Fiona (Rene Russo), the company’s massage therapist. As time goes on, Jules warms up to Ben once she discovers how useful he can be due to his knowledge and work experience. Jules’s confidante and best friend, Ben gives Jules both work and life advice about hiring a new CEO and marriage struggles with her husband Matt (Anders Holm).

Running for 121 minutes, this film tried to pack in a lot of jokes and drama, but simply was too long and slow moving. There were multiple sub-

Phone (616) 632-2975

Website www.thesaintaq.com

plots that served no purpose to the film, such as the dysfunctional relationship between Jules and her mother.

While it tried to have dramatic points, none of the scenes had any development or even the slightness of arguing. Like the scenes, the undeveloped characters seemed rushed and forced.

It appeared that Jules was supposed to be viewed as an empowered woman, but the film made her look more dismantled than powerful. Her lack of confrontation added to her unconvincing “strong” role. Even though her husband was having an affair, she avoided the subject until the very last minute. When he admitted to the affair and said he was sorry, her response was a hug, automatically forgiving him.

Although the film started out focusing on Ben, it changed midway to Jules, which did not allow Ben’s relationships to grow with Fiona and his fellow younger workers. There could have been some additional funny moments if it centered more on Ben and his new friends (Adam DeVine, Zack Pearlman, and Jason Orley). Pearlman’s joke about having his parents wake him up because he sleeps through his phone’s alarm was the only part I found funny.

Because of the cast, there was optimism for this movie, but ultimately it failed. I would recommend saving your money and two hours of your time.

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CULTURE

THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2015

Grand Rapids welcomes another year of Comic-Con

Suffragette movie evokes emotions

By Eamon Brennan The Saint Reporter

COURTESY ROBERT EBERT

Sister Suffragette: Women’s Suffrage is depicted in new flick starring

By Haley Brink Staff Writer Suffragette came to theaters on Friday, October 23, 2015. It is a PG13 rated drama based in Britain in the early parts of the twentieth century. It stars Academy Award nominees Carey Mulligan and Helena Bonham Carter. Among others, the cast also included three-time Academy Award winner Meryl Streep.

Suffragette was a monumental release due to the emotional connections that can be made by its viewers.

This heartbreakingly passionate film was inspired by true events that occurred during the fight for women’s suffrage. This movie covered the lives of those who risked it all for the right to vote, those people risked their entire lives for the chance to be equal.

Suffragette took place in Britain in the early twentieth century and was based on a woman named Maud. Maud was an activist for women’s rights who fought along with women from all different aspects of life. She was a wife and mother, and she set quite the example for her family.

The movement for the right to vote for women had started and began rolling in the U.K. in 1906. Middle working class women--mothers

and wives--started following and rallying Emmeline Pankhurst.

Women over the age of 30 were allowed to vote in England as of 1918, and women over the age of 21 were able to vote as of 1928. For England, women quickly became the majority of voters.

Suffragette was amazingly drawn up. The trailer was epic, and the movie was definitely as good as it was said to be. If anything, Suffragette was even better than to be expected. It was amazing to see on the big screen how far people will go to support what they believe in.

This film was not just a made up story about some women who were sick of being thought of as nothing, it addressed questions that make one really think. The patriarchal way of life was blasted open as well as how the government fought to dry up the “problem”.

Suffragette was definitely not one of those films that takes a while to get into. Only a few minutes into the movie, you’ll know you stepped into a good one.

Through the hunger strikes, the bombs, and the funeral processions, this movie is the one to watch. It is sad, heartbreaking even, but it’s not without a cause. One moment you’ll have tears in your eyes, and the next moment, a smile on your face.

Whenever Comic Con time comes around, you can be sure to find plenty of self-described nerds and geeks waiting with anticipation for the doors of the local convention center to open up, oftentimes long before the “festivities” are set to take place.

With Grand Rapids Comic Con, which was situated at the DeVos Place on the weekend of October 16-18, there was certainly no exception to this rule.

With more than 30,000 people in attendance, the majority of them in some sort of pop culture related costumes, the Con promised a great time to all who attended.

Plenty of celebrities attended to add some star power to the event, including Trina Nishimura from Attack on Titan, Marina Sirtis from Star Trek the Next Generation, and one of my personal comic book heroes, Ethan Van Sciver who fellow DC Comic Book readers will recognize from his amazing artwork in Flash: Rebirth and the early 2000’s run of Green Lantern.

My personal excitement about the event, and the celebrities who

COURTESY GRAND RAPIDS COMIC CON

attended it, seemed to be echoed by my fellow con-goers. Their sentiments, like mine, were focused on their eagerness to meet people who were in the same fanbases, liked the same comic books, and the possibility of buying new merchandise that displays their appreciation for their respective fandoms.

And despite the Con’s proximity to Aquinas’s Fall Break, the average attendant could still make out

a few familiar faces amongst the throngs of people, with some being excited more for the opportunity Grand Rapids Comic Con poses than anything else.

Of the people I saw and spoke with during the day, one of the most enthusiastic was Ryan Makinen, who looked forward to speaking with vendors at the new Game Room in order to promote and discuss a game he personally has designed.

A n d whether their reasons for going were related to business or just wanting to express their unique variety of “geekness” if you will, Aquinas certainly did have a presence at the Con. All of this is not to say that the Con did not have some negative points. It did, such as the severe lack of places to get something to eat and the large areas of empty space that could have been put to better use.

However, despite these, Grand Rapids Comic Con was as it has historically been in its 3 years of existence: a great success.

Heathers the Musical American Horror Story: finally comes to Michigan Ryan Murphy’s bloody imagination

By Abigale Racine Culture Editor What’s my damage? The sensational musical conversion of the 1988 cult culture classic film Heathers was FINALLY brought to a Grand Rapids stage, with performances held at Grand Rapids Community College’s Spectrum Theatre throughout the month of October.

For those unfamiliar with the quirky dark comedic flick, Heathers is centered around a clique of bitchy high school girls, in which curiously most of its members are named Heather.

The Heathers are the bee’s knees of Westerburg High School and control the the social scheme of the school environment through malicious tactics, preying on those unpopular. One individual member of the Heather clique is named Veronica. Veronica is the dark horse of the group who has recently been invited into the elite clique, abandoning her unpopular friends for acceptance and she takes an interest in the mysterious new boy in town.

After a bad night of partying and entering an altercation with Heather Chandler, Veronica and her new found love interest may/ may not have accidently killed off the reigning Heather and cover it up as a suicide.

Suddenly, like wildfire, there are mental health concerns all across Westerberg High School and there is a body count for which the star-crossed lovers are responsible for.

In the climax of the production, Veronica must come face to face with the monsters she has created.

For those sensitive to foul language, violence or to pâté, this is not the musical nor the film for you.

Those indifferent to such debauchery, you may have recognized a few familiar faces in the production of Heathers, including AQ junior Ben Avery as the cocky jock Ram, as well as 2014 graduates Jason DeJager and Mackenzie McElroy in the ensemble.

Avery was humorous to watch onstage in his portrayl of the

By Aaron Campbell Managing Editor

COURTESY ACTORS THEATRE

Corn Nuts: Heathers reminds crowds about the seriousness of wellness. stereotypical jock/bully type. He embraced his role and confidently strutted around in boxer-briefs before the audience, singing of sexual tension and rape culture in the musical number “Blue Balls”.

If you are curious how the musical conversion differs from the popular teen film, I recommend seeing it for yourself and judging from there. To be fair, you cannot go wrong- both mediums are extremely entertaining.

The musical maintains the same 1980’s identity as the film, complete with the Heathers’ signature scrunchies and plaid skirts set against a colorful Saved by the Bell-esque stage. While I enjoyed the Actor’s Theatre’s performance, I found myself longing for Winona Ryder’s snappy, dry portrayal of Veronica versus the wishy-washy character portrayal of her in the stage edition.

The vocal talent of the cast was immense- especially from actress Macey Madias who played Westerberg High loner and victim, Martha “Dumptruck” Dunnstock and wowed audiences with Culture Editor Abigale Racine

her rendition of “Kindergarten Boyfriend” before her suicide attempt. The songs featured in Heathers are both fun and thought-provoking, such as “Seventeen” and “Our Love is God”.

Considering the prevalence of mental health concerns and violence within schools in today’s society, the message behind Heathers remains as relevant since its original release.

It is a cautionary tale, reminding its audience of how the toxic influence of others can affect a community. So please AQ, take care of yourself, take care of others and watch Heathers on Netflix together while munching on a bag of BBQ Corn Nuts and love one another.

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

Sex, drugs, and rock-n-roll were just a few of the things that were smeared, quite literally, all throughout the season five premiere of Ryan Murphy’s “American Horror Story: Hotel”.

The premiere aired October 7, 2015 on FX and was seen by a total of 5.81 million viewers, which is surprisingly down five percent overall from last year’s season four “Freak Show” premiere.

The cast is probably one of the most beloved aspects of the “American Horror Story” installation. As do most seasons, this season “Hotel” reinvents the constantly changing “American Horror Story” plot twists by keeping primarily the same cast from past seasons in the likes of Kathy Bates, Sarah Paulson, and many more, but this time they brought in fresh meat (no pun intended) pop sensation Lady Gaga for her TV series debut.

Of course, Gaga is an enormous addition to the “Horror Story” cast, but I can only celebrate so much because previous leading lady, original “supreme”, and general badass, Jessica Lange, will unfortunately not be sighted in “Hotel” (sigh).

So season five, similar to season three’s “Murder House”, is set in yet another eerie building, however this time it is not a suburban two story home, but Hotel Cortez-an art deco themed hotel located in Downtown Los Angeles, California.

The opening scenes gave light to many things with a few being a stylish and sex-crazed countess (Gaga), a ghostly co-

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caine addict (Paulson), and a deranged, yet dedicated, mother (Bates). As if these characters were not interesting enough by themselves, Murphy also adds to the mix a child brainwashing arcade, a drill bit dildo, and lots and lots of blood.

Hotel’s premiere most certainly outdid its predecessors in the regard of gore. It was quite interesting (semi-disturbing) as a new scene was unveiled only to find that lust, narcotics, and/or guts were present in some form.

Although Hotel got off to a very bold and confusing start, that is totally what we expect from the “American Horror Story” installation.

I do have to give props to Murphy though, because the premiere of “Hotel” was one of the most original plots that I have ever witnessed unfold.

The blood may have been excessive, however, in Murphy’s defense he did give viewers a heads up about the grisly season to come stating during an interview regarding “Hotel” that it (Season 5) was certainly “more dark” than past seasons and “straight horror this year.”

I just wish I would have known about this warning before I told my mother to watch it as an attempt to have a common talking point. Sorry mom.

The “American Horror Story” series has been proven to have a special way of answering questions that viewers start having, in the episodes to come.

My question now is, “Will this blood parade continue throughout all thirteen episodes?”

Something tells me that the show will scream back, “YES!”, but we shall see.

Check into the hotel but, don’t worry- I’ve called in your reservation: Room 64.

Don’t thank me yet.

sports

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Minnesota Timberwolves: R.I.P. Flip Saunders

Maria Sharapova: Back On Serve

Zack Kassian Heads To Rehab

Timberwolves head coach and president of basketball operations Flip Saunders died of cancer at the age of 60 this past week. Along with the Timberwolves, Saunders had coaching stints with the Detroit Pistons and Washington Wizards. Saunders first became an NBA head coach in 1996.

Tennis star Maria Sharapova won her first complete match since competing in Wimbledon at the WTA Finals this past Sunday. The third seed needed over two hours to defeat Agnieszka Radwanska by a score of 4-6, 6-3, 6-4.

Montreal Canadiens forward Zack Kassian entered rehab recently after being involved in a car accident that left him with a broken nose and foot. While Kassian wasn’t behind the wheel, alcohol was being consumed. Kassian was traded from the Vancouver Canucks earlier this year for a player and draft pick.

Pistons Preview

nick howe |the saint reporter As the Detroit Pistons begin their season this week, let’s first look at what we can expect for the upcoming season. Stan Van Gundy is coming off his first season as coach and his second summer as an executive. Today, only three players remain on the Pistons roster since SVG took over as Head Coach and President of Basketball Operations in May 2014. Clearly, SVG knew this team needed a major overhaul, and realized the likelihood of struggling last year. After beginning the season 5-23, the Pistons waived Josh Smith to unclog the frontcourt. Ensuingly, the team won seven games in a row, and 12 of 15. During which time, point guard Brandon Jennings was playing the best basketball of his career, averaging 20 points and 7 assists per game over the 15 game span. However, in late January, the Pistons’ season took a turn after the red-hot Jennings went down with a torn achilles.

Stan Van Gundy addressed his point guard situation a few weeks later, acquiring Oklahoma City point guard Reggie Jackson.

Jackson, the talented back up to star Russell Westbrook, desired an opportunity to be “the guy” and has got his wish in Detroit.

In the 27 games with Detroit after the trade, Jackson averaged 17 ppg and 9 apg, enough to earn him a massive deal, 5 years/80 million, with Detroit this summer.

It is now up to Jackson to prove his worth. Along with offseason acquisitions of versatile forward Marcus Morris, stretchfour Ersan Illyasova, banger Aron Baynes and stud rookie Stanley Johnson, Van Gundy is finally dealing with a roster of players he envisioned 18 months ago.

After scoring a large contract last July, all eyes will be on Reggie Jackson. The Jackson + Andre Drummond pick & roll will be a focal point in the Pistons offense. Jackson has been criticized for his poor assists to turnover ratio, but look for this to improve after working many of the kinks (from learning a new system)out last season and having a full training camp with the team under his belt.

Teams will look to go under screens for Jackson on defense, so how well Jackson shoots the ball this season will be a huge factor in the team’s success.

Finally, Stan Van Gundy can relive his Orlando Magic team’s offensive schemes that led them to the NBA Finals in 2009.

The focal points to those teams in Orlando were pace-and-space, three point shooting, and Dwight Howard. With Greg Monroe out of the picture (and out of the paint), Andre Drummond can fully embrace the Dwight Howard role as the dominant man in the middle, both anchoring the defensive schemes and flourishing in a 4-out, 1-in offense with efficient three point shooting around him. Along with Jackson, much of the fate for Detroit weighs heavily on Andre’s ability to have a Howard-esque season.

Look for both players to have a good shot of making the All Star Team if the team owns a respectable record by the new year.

Since day 1, Stanley Johnson has been lights out since putting on a Pistons uniform, showing the poise and decision making abilities of a veteran. Johnson is a tank of a human being at 6’7”, 240 lbs. Early comparisons are most commonly to (a younger) Ron Artest and Jimmy Butler, both incredible two way players. Keith Langlois, the Pistons official beat writer, has swooned over Johnson, describing a unique, head-turning aura in the rookie. Which first year guys have exemplified the star-level swagger in a Pistons uniform before? Langlois pointed out the rare air, noting that he’s only seen this twice before: Isiah Thomas and Grant Hill, both first ballot hall of famers. Marcus Morris likely receives the nod for the starting job when the season starts, but look for Stanley to ultimately overtake the position at some point this year.

As it stands today, Detroit is on the bubble for making the playoffs. The Pistons play in the most competitive division in the Eastern Conference, the Central Division (with the Cavaliers, Bulls, Bucks and Pacers.)

All four of these teams are expected to make the playoffs. After splitting with Josh Smith, the Pistons went 27-27, in spite of switching up several important rotation players.

I speculate this season will not be as bumpy now that the roster is closer to SVG’s ideal model.

Not to mention, Stan Van Gundy is one of the best coaches in the league. In his second years with Miami and Orlando, Stan improved the team’s record from their previous season by 17 wins and 7 wins respectively.

Look for Detroit to improve their record in a similar fashion, maybe somewhere in between those numbers. My projected record is 42-40 with the Pistons making the playoffs.

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THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2015

WHAT TO WATCH

>> Men’s HOCKEY

The Aquinas Men’s Hockey team is off to a great start, having posted a record of 5-2-1 so far in the young season. Leading the team in points is sophomore Billy Warren with 11. Tied with four goals apiece is senior Matt Kryzkwa and first-year Nathan Aloisio. The Saints next game is on November 7 against Adrian College.

Aquinas Bowling: Women’s Basketball: Fresh Faces Leading Starting Strong

By Taylor Hodges Sports Editor The Aquinas Bowling team’s are off to a great start this year after placing third in their first competition. The Saints only home match is on November 7 at Westgate Lanes in Grand Rapids, MI. Like many teams at Aquinas, there are always first-years trying to make a mark, but sometimes that doesn’t come easy.

“As a team we are very young so lack of experience in the college bowling atmosphere is a huge challenge we face,” said junior Allie Neal. “This is personally my third year of college bowling however, we had a big recruiting class this year so it’s important that we use this year to not only gain experience and knowledge but also strengthen our bowling games, both physically and mentally.”

Even though the teams are young, they still have some strengths.

“We all get along and help each other out when someone needs it,” said senior Dakota Neff.

Neal commented saying “This is a difficult question for me because I struggle with confidence in my game. If I had to choose though I would say probably my drive to continue learning and share what I’ve learned as well as my diligence with the game.”

While Bowling is a team sport, many of

the players have personal goals set for themselves.

“A personal goal would be to be WHAC all conference,” said Neff.

Neal commented with a little more detail saying “Personally I would love to figure out my mental game. Bowling is so much more complex than people realize and there’s a lot of skill and knowledge that goes along with it.”

After a few matches in November and December, the team will turn its focus towards preparing for the WHAC Championships in which they hope to have an outstanding performance. If the team does well during the season, especially the conference tournament, they will have an opportunity to compete at Nationals. For this to happen, the team will be counting on a couple of players to lead the way.

“Both Chelsey Purdum and I come from different collegiate programs that were nationally ranked so we bring a lot of experience to the team,” said Neal. “Everyone, new or returning, brings something to the table and that’s exactly what we need.”

Neff stated “One key player would be me, I’m the only senior so I need to take the lead and set a good example. Two more key players would be Ryan Lovett and Jared Edgerton because they are the only other returning starters.”

GR Griffins: Rough Start

COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS

Catch me if you can: Sophomore Anna Omness dribbles down the court as she shakes an opposing player. of work done in our time frame. We

By Zoe Harmon push each other in practice to be the Staff Writer best we can be.”

As a young Coach Linda Nash adds, group, the Aquinas “Our workouts are very intense Women’s Basket- and competitive. We are striving to ball team has been get all of our players on the same page working hard to en- working together.” sure success. They With this kind of drive, it will be have been putting in interesting to see the team progress many hours both on throughout the season. the court and in the In every competitive sport, a team gym, and are look- has at least one rival in their confering forward to showcase their talents ence. Most of the Saints’ players and beginning at the end of October. coaches feel that Davenport has been a The Lady Saints have a fresh, powerhouse, however Nash notes, young team with six first-years, five “They have a new coach so it will sophomores, and only two upperclass- be interesting to see how they do.” men (one junior and one senior). It is Regardless of who is coaching, clear by the comment from first-year Davenport is certainly a team that the Hannah Brefeld, in which she said Lady Saints want to beat.

“Young but hungry,” that despite their It is clear that the team is prepared experience level, these ladies have the to start games and show their compassion to succeed. petitors what they have. Spitzley was They also have the skills to suc- quick to say “We are a gritty team and ceed. Sophomore Katie Theut notes, we give 110% every time we step out in “Our biggest challenge this year the court.” With a hard-working and will be our inexperience. However, determined attitude, nothing will stop we make up for our inexperience with these ladies from winning. quickness, aggressiveness and pure Be sure to catch a Women’s Basskill.” ketball game at Sturrus as soon as you The hours that they have put in for can. The ladies have their first game on practice will certainly help them on the Thursday, October 29 at 7:00 p.m. They court. will host Bethel College and fight for Dedication to practice has been their first win. If you cannot make it on and will be key for the team. Right Thursday, check out their schedule onnow, the ladies have morning lifts line to find an upcoming game. These three days a week and practice in the ladies will be fun to watch, so do not gym five days a week. Katie Spitzley, miss out. the team’s only junior, commented about practices mentioning, “They are intense and we get a lot

COURTESY ROXANNE KING

Moving As One

Strike A Pose: Griff poses for the camera during an outing.

By Charlie Crowley The Saint Reporter It’s almost the end of the month, which means out with ArtPrize and in with the Griffins here in Grand Rapids. The Grand Rapids Griffins, American Hockey League affiliate to the Detroit Red Wings, have begun their season at Van Andel Arena; problem is, that just like their parent team in Motown, the Griffs are off to a bit of a rough start. The Griffins started their first six games at a dismal 1-5 record.

The AHL can be a little tricky at times for players and coaching staffs. When problems of any sort arise with the big club, they look to the farm team to help out, thus picking up the better players from the squad to boost their team. This also plays backwards in that a guy who struggles at the top level can have success a notch below. With the Wings having some early injuries, the Griffins haven’t had the firepower that Teemu Pulkkinen brought for most of last year, or the efforts that Dylan Larkin contributed in the Calder Cup Playoffs. However, the team does have some firepower still available. The offensive charge so far has been led by defenseman Ryan Sproul, who leads the team with 1 goal and 4 assists. Martin Frk, drafted by the Wings in 2012, leads the team with Sports Editor Taylor Hodges

2 goals, both coming against the Charlotte Checkers. The Griffins will also get some help from NHL veteran Dan Cleary, who was sent down from the Red Wings.

Jared Coreau and Tom McCollum have shouldered the load in goal, with former Griffin Petr Mrazek starting the season with the Red Wings. Both are off to a shaky start, with Coreau holding a 1-1 record with a 2.12 goals against average, and McCollum sitting at 0-3 with a 2.93 GAA. The Griffins and the Wings have a lot of similarities to start the season, most notably with a new coach at the helm. With Jeff Blashill getting promoted to Motown, the Griffins hired Todd Nelson as their new head coach.

Nelson spent time last year coaching both the Oklahoma City Barons of the AHL and the Edmonton Oilers of the NHL. Nelson, the first player ever signed in Griffin’s history, will look to continue the success the team has had in recent years and building off of their conference final exit from last year’s Calder Cup Playoffs. With the season still extremely young he may have some help sent down from Detroit, but for the most part will keep the core of his team intact. The Griffins will look to heat up again in the coming weeks to get an early foothold on the playoffs in their quest for the Calder Cup.

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

By Aaron Campbell Managing Editor The Aquinas Women’s Soccer team is coming in hot as they approach the final two games of the regular season. The team, now 9-4-2 on the season, believes the five game winning streak that they are coming off of is just the start of what they plan to bring into the WHAC tournament play.

The Lady Saints are certainly capable of making a run for the WHAC title considering that they currently stand in fourth place overall in the WHAC standings. The team most recently won against Madonna University by a score of 1-0, only after previously toppling Davenport in a 5-0 victory.

The team and coaches both attribute the team’s recent successes to figuring out what works on the field but more importantly, how to make it work.

It is this determination that pushes the team forward at a very crucial point in the season.

After the Saint’s victory over Davenport, Head Coach Roger Gardner explained the secret to the team’s recent string of triumphs, “It took the coaching staff a few games to figure out how to use each player’s strength the best. The players have bought into their roles, and realized that every person on the team makes a difference in how the team plays. It is really the players who have stepped up and are playing great at this time.”

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Coach Gardner and the team makes sure to note that this is just the start of a progressive building process.

“We are getting better every day.

The girls are working hard, and when they see their hard work pay off it makes them work that much harder,” said Gardner. “Everyone is figuring out their roles, and doing whatever they can to make the team better.”

However, it’s not only Coach Gardner that has noticed the recent unity within the team.

Jessica Parry, a standout junior transfer from Schoolcraft College explains what she has watched happened with the closely bonded team.

“I believe our team has really been coming together strongly within the past few games. I think a lot of people are starting to step up at this point and prove themselves, which has helped with the momentum and energy of the team as a whole.”

From a player’s perspective, Parry explains that there has been an internal drive pushing the Saints forward.

“I believe these past wins have come from the heart. Personally, I believe that the team has outworked every opponent that we have played in the past 5 or 6 games,” added Parry.

It is certainly this collective effort from the team that has placed the team in its current position as they approach tournament play in high spirits.

The team will battle Lourdes this afternoon in their second to last game of regular season play.

8

SPORTS

THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2015

Larkin Leads Wings

By Charlie Crowley The Saint Reporter When October comes around in Michigan, there are a few assumptions that one can have: the Tigers may or may not be in the playoffs, the Lions have no chance at the playoffs, and Michigan and Michigan State football are in full swing. However, October also brings back hockey to the Mitten State, and fans across the state turn their attention to the Detroit Red Wings. The Wings are off to an average start, finishing 4-3-1 in their first eight games. They went on a tear out of the gate jumping to 3-0, but were outscored 19-18 in their next four to drop to .500.

Although the Wings have had a rough start to the season, there have been a few bright spots, such as 19 year old phenom Dylan Larkin. Larkin, who made the opening n i g h t r o s t e r w i t h Pa v e l D a t syuk sidelined, is averaging a point per game with 2 goals and 5 assists. Larkin impressed the Red Wings fans and brass alike during training camp and the preseason, but there was speculation he would start the season in Grand Rapids to help him develop. Also leading the charge for the Wings is captain Henrik Zetterberg and Muskegon native Justin Abdelkad-

er, both of whom joined Larkin on the Wings’ top line for a series of games. Zetterberg has 2 goals and 9 assists, while Abdelkader has 4 goals and an assist of his own, with three of those goals coming against Toronto on the first night of the season. Goaltending has been split evenly between Jimmy H o w a r d a n d Pe t r M r a z e k , w i t h Howard posting a 2-1-1 record and 2.24 goals against average, while Mrazek sports a 2-2 record with a 2.75 GAA. Despite the rough start to the season in Motown, Red Wings fans should not be alarmed at all. With a new coach at the helm in former Grand Rapids Griffins coach Jeff Blashill, it will take some time for players to adjust to him; however, many current Wings have played under Blashill in the past and know what to expect and what is expected out of them. Also of n o t e , t h e M a g i c M a n Pa v e l D a t syuk is still out due to ankle surgery he had this offseason, but Ansar Khan of MLive reported that he will ramp up his skating in the coming weeks.

He is expected to return in the next few weeks. The Wings may have suffered an early speed bump, but should be back up to full speed in no time.

AQ Cheerleading: All Smiles

COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS

Hi Mom:The cheer team shines those teeth for the camera during a halftime performance.

By Taylor Hodges Sports Reporter The Aquinas Cheerleading team is gearing up for another important season. Backed by coaches Emily White and Amy Stover, the team is looking to provide some school spirit while also taking a stab at the National tournament.

Last year, the team was struggling to find participants, thus limiting the amount of routines they could perform, but should be in the clear this year due to an abundance of newcomers. This year’s team has 19 rostered members with a handful being first-years. Returning for

the Saints are seniors Jackie Bourdon and Brandon Harris, and sophomore Katie Hann. While the team is young, everyone is looking forward to the season.

“I’m very excited to start our competition season,” said first-year Hannah Kidder. “I’m excited to see what we will be able to accomplish from all of our hard work.”

The Saints kick-off their season on October 29 when they perform during the Women’s Basketball game against Bethel. On top of performing during the Men’s and Women’s Basketball games, the team will also be partaking in compe-

titions. Their first competition of the season takes place on January 24 in Concordia, MI. In the meantime, the team will be perfecting their skills through countless hours of practice and putting on a couple cheer clinics for some of the local schools.

While most of the team consists of first-years, many might be shocked to find out that most of the members have little to no experience cheering. Don’t let their inexperience fool you, as the coaches and members are working diligently to ensure great performances.

“Cheering for Aquinas is special because I was given the opportunity to work alongside some of the best athletes and friends the school has to offer,” said first-year Josh Atherton. “Coach Emily and Coach Amy push us to do our very best and helped me realize I have talent for a sport I never imagined myself playing.”

First-year Dominique Tomlin also chimed in saying “This is the first time I’ve ever done cheerleading, unless you count sideline in early middle school (which I don’t).”

Aside from their honesty, the team is also made up of some very interesting people.

“Well, an interesting fact about me would be that I did ballet for 14 years previous to attending Aquinas,” said Kidder. Atherton commented saying “Before I was a college cheerleader, I was a varsity swimmer in high school for three years.”

Make sure to come out and support your Aquinas Cheerleading team as they take the floor during the Men’s and Women’s home basketball games.

#EvanStrong

Aquinas community loses friend, student, and athlete

By Chucky Blackmore News Editor There is a deeper meaning behind being a Saint than just an enrollment at Aquinas College. A Saint embodies each and every person who becomes a part of the past, present, and future of our school’s profound history. Firstyear Evan Kimball, who passed away unexpectedly on Monday, October 12, is most certainly an AQ Saint.

Kimball grew up in West Branch, Michigan, fueling his love for sports at a young age. He was an avid multisport athlete throughout school, taking an interest in baseball, football, wrestling, and basketball. At the age of four, Kimball started playing baseball for the West Branch Little League; from then on, his ambitious little heart would be set on making baseball a pastime in his life and the lives of his loved ones.

Before making his way to Aquinas, Kimball attended Ogemaw Heights High School and shared memories with every person he came in contact with.

“He was a freshman in high school when I was a junior,” said AQ junior Karin O’Brien. “I began to know Evan very well between classes and after school activities.”

O’Brien recalled first meeting Kimball through his mother, Lydia, who worked in the high school at the time. A close relationship was built between all of them, and it didn’t take for

O’Brien to be considered an unofficial member of the Kimball family.

“Evan is basically the little brother I never had, and I thought he was just the cutest thing,” said O’Brien.

As big of a sports fan he was, Kimball also possessed a knack for acting--well, maybe with a little convincing from O’Brien.

“I was involved with our theatrical department in high school. Evan and I had theatre class together,” recalled O’Brien. “I saw a little performer in Evan while we did skits and activities in class, so being the “big sister” that I am, I nagged at him day in and day out until he finally tried out for the high school’s production of The Pink Panther. He rocked his role and from there on out, he was a remarkable performer. I loved watching him grow throughout the years.”

Kimball had always shown an interest in attending Aquinas College after graduating high school. His dream was to make it onto the men’s baseball

team. Any hesitation he had about coming to AQ had been eliminated

by O’Brien when she described to him

had on them.

“Evan was fellow catcher,” said senior Tyler Golembiewski.

“He always had a positive attitude and was willing to help whenever he could.”

Golembiewski recalled a time when selfless Kimball added some humor to practice.

“There was one day where all the pitchers had to throw and we were all prepared to help out. That’s when our coach went to Evan and was like, ‘I’ve got COURTESY FACEBOOK good news and the inclusive nature of the school bad news. The good community. After an hour-long dis- news is each pitcher is only throwing cussion at a wedding reception about 15 pitches. The bad news is you have AQ, O’Brien recalled Kimball’s cheer- to catch all the pitches.’” ful response: “I’m not sure if I fully Another teammate, junior Micollected everything you just said...but chael Priest, offered more words about okay, I’ll come to Aquinas!”

Kimball’s humor and personality.

His dream of playing collegiate “He was always making jokes… baseball at AQ had come true when but you had to listen closely to hear he entered the field as an athlete and them because he wasn’t flashy about a Saint. Though his other teammates it by any means,” said Priest. “If you didn’t know him very long, their were lucky enough to catch one of his words express the impact Kimball had jokes, you couldn’t help but laugh.”

AQ Dance

Men’s Basketball Preview

By Madison Wilder The Saint Reporter The 2014-15 Aquinas Men’s Basketball team proved to be successful finishing with a winning record of 19-13 last year. As the 2015-16 season approaches, players have begun preparing for the upcoming tournament at the Indiana Wesleyan WHAC-Crossroads Challenge on Oct. 30.

Head coach David Hammer has a few new players who may bring some surprises as the season begins. This includes first-year’s TJ Hunter and Taylor White. Hammer also lists Grand Valley State University transfer, Rashaud Orange, as a key player this year.

“Rashaud Orange is one of the best athletes in the conference,” said Hammer. “[He has the] ability to score in the open court and half court and is an explosive player.”

Hammer also highlighted senior point guard Jacob Bullock as a key player because of his leadership as well as his consistency on the court. Last season, Bullock was the second leading scorer, averaging 7.75 points per game. Bullock believes that along with himself, the returning seniors will allow the Saints to dominate the court.

“Our four seniors Zac VanBeek, Loren Johnson, Bryan Mitzner and Kail Venema will play key roles this year as returners and I believe I also must contribute for our team to be successful,” said Bullock.

Va n B e e k and Mitzner were right behind Bullock as the third and fourth leading scorers with VanBeek averaging 6.61 points per game and Mitzner with a 6.53 average points per game.

Johnson averaged 2.97 blocks per game last season, while also contributing 55 points and 70 COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS assists total.

Venema was Eye on the rim: Junior Ryan Schall keeps his eye on the basket third on the while fending off two opposing players. team in real championship,” Bullock said. bounds averaging 3.13 per game and put The team will face several chalup 116 points for the Saints throughout lenges this season, including integrating the season. new team members onto the court which Over the course of the season, the may be difficult, as well as dealing with Saints will be competing in a difficult injuries. conference, one of the toughest Hammer “We have had several injuries in earhas seen since his time as coach. Their ly pre-season practices,” Hammer said. opponents include two teams that were “Once we get these players back we will previously in the Final Four NAIA II start building for the season.” national tournament, including CornerHammer has high expectations. stone, who won the national tournament.

“This should be an exciting team to “[We] Always want to win a league watch.” championship and strive to win a nationSports Editor Taylor Hodges E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

“Even though I didn’t know him very long, he has left an everlasting impact on my life. I will try to better myself everyday by taking the #Evanchallenge, which is doing something to better the community, someone around you, or even yourself.”

Kimball indulged in the AQ lifestyle upon arriving this year: adjusting to the dorms and college classes, the endless meal plan, on-campus events and sports, and meeting new people.

He decided on an athletic training major due to his love for sports and helping others.

“Evan James Kimball is my personal hero,” said O’Brien. “It saddens me greatly that his radiant personality is no longer walking around AQ, but I am blessed to have someone like him looking after me. He never had a mean bone in his body. He could have been having the worst day ever, but refused to put himself first. He was too concerned about the people he dearly loved. His legacy will live on forever.”

As AQ Saints, we all share memories with one another that bind us together as a family. These memories remind us of who we are and what we can all accomplish as a community.

Although Evan is no longer with with us, the memories will surely live on forever.

Young and Hungry

By Kirsten Fedorowicz The Saint Reporter For some, dance is a way of life. The Aquinas College Dance team is preparing for an awesome season. With their biggest team yet, thirteen athletes, the team has more possibilities and opportunities than ever before. The team is pretty young, with nine first-years, but all of them have dance experience between three and eighteen years. The size of the team has allowed for more different kinds of dances, stemming from the skills and experience of the team. So far, the athletes have learned pom routines and Jazz routines. Soon, they will add a hip-hop and another pom dance.

“We have some really strong hip hop talent,” Coach Renee Richards said about her skilled team. “This provided us an opportunity to ask a couple members of the team to show off their talent and choreograph a routine to perform.”

The athletes work hard to learn these routines, occasionally having practices that last all day in order to learn their multiple different dances.

As part of their halftime performances, they have also learned shorter dances to do during fouls.

“We’re already off to a great start,” first-year dancer Betsey Cook said. “I can’t wait to see where the season takes us.”

The team will start performing at

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halftime during Basketball games in November.

The team does more than just perform at halftime, they are also doing an exhibition for high schoolers in December. The team is currently working towards competition at Dance Regionals. With all the skills of the athletes, the Aquinas Dance Team has high hopes to succeed at regionals and make it to Nationals.

“Dance is an emerging sport through our conference, NAIA. This is such an exciting time for all of us,” Coach Renee Cavaliere said.

Competition dances are different than their halftime performances, with their own special theme that has not yet been released.

“We feel like we can accomplish this goal given our talent, competition routine, drive within the girls, and the determination to do our best.” Coach Renee Cavaliere expressed.

The team will compete against other college students starting in February.

Nationals takes place in Florida during Spring Break.

The Aquinas College Dance Team Members are easily recognizable by their black sweatshirts, complete with embedded glitter stone names. They’re from different classes and majors, different dance histories and strengths; but they all share enthusiasm for dance.