The Saint :: Issue 11

The Place Beyond the Pines Reporter Paige Graham checks out the new flick starring Ryan Gosling and Bradley Cooper.

New busing system | 3

page 5

theSaint

Wednesday, April 24, 2013 Volume 32, Issue 11

‘Til next year.

Resilience

>>NEWS Prof. Gary Robertson | 2 Reporter Paige Graham sits down with the economics professor for a spotlight.

North Korea | 3 The Saint has everything you need to know about the volatile country and their current relations.

>>CULTURE Fall Out Boy | 5 The band makes a long awaited appearance after five years with their new album, Save Rock and Roll.

Hotel Cassiopeia | 6 Culture Editor Paris Close reviews the intriguing play that hit campus last weekend.

>>SPORTS Aquinas softball

| 7

With a string of games postponed for rain, the team looks to finish the season strong.

Carlie Giarmo

Men’s lacrosse | 8

| 8

Reporter Brian Kalchik interviews the senior softball standout.

Americans rally after a week of tragic loss in Boston and Texas

By Laura Farrell News Editor Senator John Kerry put it best when he said, “In the past few days, we’ve seen the best and we’ve seen the worst in human behavior.” Starting with the Boston Marathon on Monday morning, this past week began like any other week. Four hours into the popular race in downtown Boston, however, it only took twelve seconds to let the nation know this week would not be like any other.

At approximately 2:50 p.m. on Monday afternoon, a bomb exploded near the finish line. A second bomb exploded seconds later about one hundred yards down Boylston Street.

These bombs, reportedly created in pressure cookers, contains high amounts of shrapnel, hoping for mass causalities.

Chaos ensued as spectators, runners and volunteers were critically injured and confused. Over 180 people were wounded and taken to area hospitals.

Three people died from injuries sustained by the blasts.

Rumors and speculations were flying as Boston police and the FBI quickly dealt with a large and complex crime scene.

Immediately after the attack, volunteers, medics, and civilians rushed to the aide of the injured. It did not take long for the heroics of Boylston Street to be seen around the world. Moreover, hours after the horrific and unexplained act, the people of Boston began to show their resilient character even more as displaced runners found refuge in locals homes.

As investigators poured over the intense crime seen and hundreds of images and video footage, the following days were tense. On Thursday, April 18, around 5 p.m., the FBI released images

Sturrus Phase II still in progress Construction will continue when funding goals are met

By Stephanie Giluk Editor-in-Chief Students at Aquinas have been able to enjoy the benefits provided by the first phase of construction for the Sturrus Sports and Fitness Center since its completion in November of 2010. The renovations included upgraded competition areas, three new academic classrooms, new locker rooms, an expanded Athletic Training facility with new offices and treatment areas and much more.

Phase I of Sturrus’ construction was only the beginning. Phase II is still to be implemented and seems to have been stuck in relative limbo for some time now. According to the Phase II page on Aquinas’ website, the second phase, once completed, will bring “70,000 square feet of new space for the Aquinas College community” and will “offer a 200 meter track with all of the amenities for track and field events, but also additional wooden floor courts for basketball, volleyball, cheerleading, and dance.”

There will also be new practice areas for various sports available and “an extensive curtaining system” which “will allow for multiple uses [of the space] simultaneously.”

Alumnus Greg Alksnis and his wife Sally Alksnis donated $1.5 million dollars to get Phase II started, according to Aquinas’ press release for Phase II written in July of 2012.

Phase II was originally projected to begin construction in the fall of 2012

and reach completion “within a year.”

As summer and fall of 2013 loom closer, it’s clear that construction for Phase II is not nearing completion.

Vice President of Advancement Greg Meyer confirmed that construction for Phase II “has been pushed back. The cost of the project went up about $1 million dollars so we had to continue fundraising.”

The recent flooding that has impacted downtown Grand Rapids and even caused several buildings on campus to lose power has raised concerns about the location of some of the intended renovations and the electrical stations that power Sturrus.

Meyer said, “We had some things that changed in the project. We have to do some work on the creek. We have to fix that for the city because it will control all the flooding downstream.”

Meyer added, “Phase II has been split into two parts.” In addition to the renovations already in place, there will also be a “new entrance to the college” off of Fulton that will be a “more formalized entrance to the college,” Meyer said.

There is no set timeline in place for Phase II renovations, as all the effort is now going toward raising the remaining funds in order to set Phase II back in motion. “It is our number one priority to get Phase II done,” Meyer said. “We are working feverishly to meet the million dollar mark.”

and a video of two suspects who were later revealed to be Tamerlan and Dzhokar Tsarnaev, also known as Su s p e ct # 1 a n d Suspect #2.

Hours later, a collection of tragic events began to unfold. The brothers reportedly shot down an MIT police officer, and preceded to car jack a Mercedes S.U.V. They reportedly told the car’s driver t h a t t h e y we r e involved with the Boston bombings but miraculously let the man go free.

An intense police chase began after 11 p.m.

COURTESY DENISE SANDERS with bombs and Taking action: President Obama is briefed about Boston updates with Lisa Monaco, the assistant to the grenades being President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism and Chief of Staff Dennis McDonough. thrown at the among the rubble for bodies. Fourteen police by the suspects. Tamerlan then throat injury.

He was charged that afternoon with bodies were recovered and 60 people exited the car with a suicide bomb strapped to him, but was run over by two federal counts of using a weapon were still unaccounted for. of mass destruction to kill, injure, and Over 200 people were injured and his brother, shot by police and killed. over 50 homes and buildings had been Police continued to chase Dzhokar, cause widespread damage.

In West, Texas, on Wednesday night, destroyed. Many of those among the who fled on foot. Friday, April 19, April 17, a fertilizer plant exploded and dead were first responders and in a town saw Boston and surrounding areas were essentially shut down as police left the town of 2,800 people devastated. so small, many of them were volunteer The cause of the fire and blast is still firefighters. continued their search.

A we e k f i l l e d w i t h t r a g e d y It was not until 10 p.m. that the unknown but video footage of the suspect was found in Watertown and blast and the town after the explosion ultimately showcased the American apprehended. Dzhokar was taken to the detail the impact it had. The blast even spirit and camaraderie that is so easily overlooked in a time of crisis. Financial, registered a 2.1 on the Richter scale. hospital with injuries.

The blast leveled area homes and logistic and emotional support were seen On Monday, April 22, Dzhokar was able to communicate with authorities caused damage to buildings miles away. both in Boston and Texas throughout the by writing down answers, as he has a The days following the blast left crews week. with the incredible task of looking

Graduation information

By Lianne Crouthers The Saint Reporter May 4 is going to be a big day for many Aquinas students.

Commencement has been long awaited by many and culminates the collegiate educational experience.

Before the big day, preparatory activities help secure a stress-free commencement for the Aquinas class of 2013, including RSVPs, ticket ordering and apparel pick-up.

Graduation tickets can be picked up from the President’s office in Holmdene anytime from April 8-26 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Graduation apparel— cap, gown, honor cords—will be distributed in the bookstore starting April 23 and will continue through May 3. All graduation COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS accoutrements are property of the graduates and will not need A new step: At last year’s commencement, students make their way to the Sturrus Sports to be returned to the bookstore and Fitness Center for the graduation ceremony. after commencement. Apparel can also Donnelly Center as well. Both events and guests with pink special seating tickets be picked up on the Holmdene lawn are complimentary and open-house will be seated. At 1:00 p.m., will call and during Grad Fest on Tuesday, April 23, style. Graduates are asked to RSVP for white ticket holders will be the next to find between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Grads themselves and their guests to Maureen their seating in Sturrus, while green ticket will also be able to purchase tickets for the Poirier: poirimau@aquinas.edu, 616-632- holders can enter the Wege Ballroom for commencement brunch and update their 2883. live feed viewing of the ceremony.

Career Services information. There will be The commencement activities will Graduates must report to the an alumni gift for grads who update their begin on May 4 with a Baccalaureate Academic Building no later than 1:15 p.m. contact information with the Alumni Office Mass at 10:00 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Processional positions are determined and a photo booth available to all attendees. Andrew. Graduates are encouraged to alphabetically and by degree. Once the Any graduate interested in attending wear their caps and gowns, without their queue has been arranged, graduates the Commencement brunch should hoods. The assembling for this event begins are asked to remain where they are purchase their tickets—$9 apiece—at the at 9:30 a.m. with the academic procession placed; stepping out of line to mingle is President’s office or at Student Accounts beginning at 9:50 a.m. Aquinas will discouraged. in Hruby Hall between April 8-26.

The academic procession begins at provide transportation from the college A reception for Graduate and to the event.

1:45 p.m. and the Commencement begins Continuing Education students is held on Commencement brunch will be held at 2:00 p.m. Following the ceremony, Thursday, May 2 from 5:30-7:00 p.m. in the after the Baccalaureate Mass in the Wege graduates are official Aquinas College Donnelly Center. Traditional graduates Cafeteria between 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

Alumni and a new, thrilling stage of life are invited to attend their reception on Beginning at 12:30 p.m., the doors of begins!

Friday, May 3, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. in the Sturrus Sports and Fitness Center will open

news

page

2

<<

THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24, 2013

Aquinas: Exam Cram is here again to relieve some stress

Grand Rapids: Nonstop rain leaves parts of GR underwater

National: Gun control advocates stay determined despite Senate

World: Former Pakistani leader under arrest

As students and faculty alike are feeling the effects of the end of the semester, exam cram is here to help again this semester. Old favorites like extended library hours and “moosages” are here again, along with some new additions. A schedule of events can be found on the campus life page.

After days of heavy rain, Grand Rapids areas were quick to flood. On Friday, April 19, Kent county declared a state of emergency, a day after Wyoming county. Many roads were completely under water. Aquinas campus also felt the effects, with Wege pond widening and power outages in multiple buildings on Thursday, April 18.

On Wednesday, April 17, the U.S. Senate did not reach the sixty votes that it needed to pass the amendments which would modify the background-check provisions on gun ownership. President Obama did not hide his frustration, stating that their advocacy for gun control was far from over.

Former Pakistani military leader Pervez Musharraf was surprisingly arrested and taken into custody on Friday, April 19. From 1999 to 2008, Musharraf held high power as an army chief in the country where military rules. Musharraf had been in exile, self-imposed, for the past four years in both London and Dubai.

Positive laura farrell |news editor At 10:30 p.m. on Friday night, I could finally change the channel.

Since Monday afternoon, I had been absolutely glued to the television, getting updates on my phone, trying to get the latest updates. The week played out like a bad Hollywood thriller, from the tragic Boston bombings to bizarre poisonous letters to Mother Nature’s tearful fury to the devastating explosion in West, Texas.

No doubt we were all touched by the images we saw of heroes, in every sense of the word. People who dropped everything and ran into the bombed area and carried people out. Runners who finished the race and ran to local hospitals to give blood. Police officers and officials who worked around the clock and did not rest.

For all the acts of violence, terror, and disaster that almost erased my faith in humanity, it was restored tenfold by all of the people who did everything in their power to let those in need know that they were not alone. I have never felt more reassured that there are people that are making a difference, no matter how small the act.

Unfortunately, we are not reminded how lucky we are every week. It is really easy to become cynical in college. We are held to crazy expectations as we are supposed to shell out thousands in tuition, maintain high G.P.A.s, hold jobs, be involved on and off campus, and figure out the next ten years of our life while maintaining our sanity. Slowly but surely, it becomes harder and harder to maintain a level of positivity that will get you through the week of homework.

This year especially, I have found it insanely too easy to just stop caring.

Junior year seems to be one in limbo, where you still are trying to figure out your college career, but are also being reminded that you will have to function in the real world all too soon.

By now, I am sure that most people know of our troubles here at The Saint. I walked into this year most excited to get started as the News Editor, my first year on the editorial staff. I would have never imagined what the year would entail.

We have said it once and I will say it again: we take full ownership for any of our faults from previous years. And as we have shown, we have maintained our loyalty, and stuck with the paper the whole year. We feel that getting out news to students by students on campus is important. It has been important for the last 50 years and will be for the next 50.

Clippings of The Saint my dad (who was a student photographer for the paper) kept from his undergrad at Aquinas motivated me to go to Aquinas, transferring from a different university freshman year. I saw firsthand that this school gave its students professional opportunities and challenged them.

I appreciate that there are students who do not agree that the paper is a necessary institution and believe editors and writers should not receive stipends.

But I can tell you that my dad, who went on to medical school, has always considered his work at the paper to be beneficial to his professional endeavors.

I do not think that he would still have those old papers, or encourage his daughter to follow in his steps, if he did not think it was worthwhile.

All of us editors and writers may not be headed to a career in journalism, but The Saint provides a unique experience to be professional, to promote applicable job skills, to expand writing abilities, and most importantly, to connect with the community around us.

For the weeks our budget was cut, all I wanted to do was whine. And I do the same with my homework load, work hours, the weather, you name it. But whining does not do a thing.

If I learned anything this year, especially in the past week, it is that you have to fight for your passions and you have to maintain a positive outlook.

Sometimes it may seem that the world is fighting against you, and it probably is. Nothing will change though if you do not have the tenacity and courage to fight back at it.

Thank you for a wonderful year here at the paper. We could not do what we do without our faithful writers and devoted readers. We tried our best to bring you the best news, no matter how small our staff or budget. So, here is to next year.

Spring World News Formal Students dance the night

By Lianne Crouthers The Saint Reporter

away before finals

SARAH PARLETTE / THE SAINT

A night of fun: Students take a break from the dance formal at the Spring Formal on April 20.

By Sarah Parlette The Saint Reporter This past Saturday at the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, Aquinas College held its annual Spring Formal. Catered by renowned tapas bistro San Chez and hosted

by AQ Programing Board, the event went off without a hitch, with all those in attendance having a great time.

“I loved it! The venue was great and I had such an amazing time with my fellow Aquinas students,” said senior Kristin Heinrich. “This was definitely the best formal, and a great way to enjoy my last few weeks at Aquinas before graduation!”

Beginning around 7:45 p.m., Aquinas students could take small shuttles which ran every twenty or so minutes from the Moose to the UICA. Once guests arrived, they could take the elevator to the fourth floor gallery level, check in, and, if of legal age, receive wristbands and two drink tickets.

“Formal exceeded my expectations. I had heard some bad reviews from last year and I was a little skeptical about going, but I was very pleasantly surprised, “ said sophomore Molly Robertson. “The venue was awesome and the food

was wonderful. Although I might be a bit biased because San Chez is my favorite restaurant.”

In fact, the food, which ranged from a purple, sweet hummus to crispy tortilla chips with avocado to mini frosted cupcakes, was quite delicious and catered to many tastes.

Students could get drinks ranging from soda products to beer to red and white wine.

“The atmosphere of the dance was also great! Once everyone was on the dance floor the party was totally wicked,” said Robertson.

With a DJ lining up dance tunes with beats like “Cyclone” and the Cuban shuffle to slow dance songs for couples, the dance floor began to fill up around 10 p.m. after everyone had had their fill of food. Pink, blue and green lights danced off of the flat, grey concrete walls of the UICA while light from downtown Grand Rapids filled up the large rectangular windows.

“I thought Spring Formal was an excellent way to end the year. It was great fun to eat, chat, and dance with friends,” said senior Carey Mayhew.

“The event was really high energy and that added to the enjoyment of being able to forget about classes for a night.”

the Nigerian state, Bayelsa has set up an information hotline to disparage misinformation among the public.

According to the BBC, the advertising campaign consists of billboards that read: “Say No to Rumor Mongers,” in reaction to the “pandemonium” that ensured after a rumor that the governor of the region had been deposed.

Balyelasn officials are hoping to stem the practice of gossip that impacts both political and domestic aspects of citizens’ lives. So far the hotline has received calls requesting information

The last two weeks have seen an abundance of note worthy news worldwide. Venezuela held elections on Sunday, April 14, choosing a new president for the first time since 1998, when Hugo Chavez was elected. This mercurial leader named his preferred successor, Nicolas Maduro, before he died, following a terminal bout with cancer on March 5. Mr. Maduro, a former bus driver and ardent socialist, engaged in a fierce campaign against his rival for presidency, Henrique Capriles. According to the BBC, Mr. Capriles has had a long history of political dissent and campaign activity.

In fact, Capriles was only defeated by a miniscule margin by Chavez in the October 2012 elections. When the results of the Sunday, April 14 elections were announced, Maduro emerged victorious with 50.8% of the votes.

In light of his 49.0% defeat, Capriles has submitted a formal request for a vote-by-vote recount, even though the National Electoral Council has declared the results irreversible.

Presently, the U.S. is refusing to recognize Maduro’s presidency. But Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, Argentina, and Brazil are accepting the results.

While Venezuela’s political future is tenuous, it is clear that the nation is COURTESYWALTER VARGAS heartily divided. Facing a new postChavez world, Venezuelans will have A leader: Former Venezuelan leader create new inroads for their country Hugo Chavez will be succeeded by Nicoin an ever shifting global landscape, las Madura. regardless of the presidency.

In Nea Manolada, Greece, a a variety of topics. The BBC reports foreman and a farm owner have the calls range from questions about been arrested following the shooting legitimate tax levies to amnesty granted of thirty migrant workers. The BBC to repentant militant groups. reports that the strawberry farm On April 17, Margaret Thatcher, employs predominantly Bangladeshi Great Britain’s longest serving Prime workers. On April 18, approximately Minister, was laid to rest in a state 200 employees congregated to protest funeral. Squelching rumors of faulty a six month remittance of wages. At security in London following the Boston which point, according to channel4. Marathon bombing, former Scotland com, three foremen opened fire on Yard Detective Chief Inspector Arnie the crowed, injuring the 30 workers. Cook posited that London is under As of April 18, a manhunt is being almost complete surveillance on a daily conducted to apprehend the three basis. Responding to Dick Gordon’s foremen implicated in the crime while question on April 17’s interview on the farm owner and another foremen NPR’s “The Story,” he affirmed that remain in custody. The incident there no place to park your car in that illustrates growing economic and city that is not visible by camera. cultural tensions in Greece due to its Thatcher’s funeral was led by the economic recession and quasi-resolved Queen. It included full state honors and Eurozone crisis. was attended by over 2,000 dignitaries Following a rigorous anti-rumor from across the world. mongering advertising campaign,

Professor Spotlight Professor Gary Robertson

By Paige Graham The Saint Reporter Professor Gary L. Robertson was born and raised on the east side of Detroit, Michigan. He is able to remember a prosperous Detroit and says that his neighborhood growing up was the “equivalent of living in the suburbs.”

After attending a Catholic high school, Robertson decided to stay in Detroit and attended the University of Detroit to study mathematics.

Once he received both his bachelors and master’s degree from U of D, he worked in Detroit public housing and later came to Grand Rapids to teach at Aquinas. Professor Robertson came to Grand Rapids in 1969 after deciding to take a faculty position at Aquinas instead of Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant.

When asked why he chose Aquinas, he said that he liked Grand Rapids better than Mount Pleasant and that Grand Rapids had a lot more housing options. Robertson also said that when he came to interview for the position, it was spring and the campus looked beautiful. After teaching here for four years, Robertson left temporarily to study at the University of Toronto.

Robertson is a part of the economics department. He teaches about four economics classes a year and used to teach statistics. Robertson also teaches a class about the assassination of former president John F. Kennedy. Robertson

is the only faculty member to have ever taught the Kennedy assassination class and he will probably be the only one who ever will.

Robertson said that the idea for the class came about early on in his career when the Dean of Students asked faculty members for ideas for summer classes that will be intriguing to students.

Robertson has studied the mystery behind the JFK assassination since the day that it happened.

Robertson says that his interest in the JFK assassination comes from a very personal place. “I was a sophomore in college when it happened and Kennedy was like a shining light for students of my generation. All of the idealism and new things like the Peace Corps that he introduced was a nice contrast to the cold war and when he’s killed, it was a huge shock and you want to know, why? What happened?” He says that he has taught the class every other year and, even though students are becoming less and less familiar with the event as time goes on. He still has about 20 or so students for every class.

In addition to teaching at Aquinas, Robertson also taught advanced placement macroeconomics at Catholic Central High School for five or six years.

He reflects warmly on the experience, saying that Catholic Central had a very warm and welcoming environment. He liked teaching AP level classes because “with AP you get the best students in the senior class. They are all competing

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

to be valedictorian and to be admitted into the best universities in the country.

I often joke around and say, if I had asked those kids to stand on their desks and sing ‘Old McDonald Has a Farm,’ they would have done it. They would have done anything I asked them to do.

They would ask penetrating questions, and it wasn’t just a few of them; it was the whole group of them.” Robertson stopped teaching there two years ago due to budget cuts.

Outside of teaching, Robertson raises cattle at his home in the country. He says that he has about five or six cows at a time. He raises them to eventually send them to be slaughtered for meat.

He also, along with his wife, loves to go traveling. He has been to various places in Europe and owns timeshare in Tahiti.

His only granddaughter lives in France and he visits her at least once a year.

“Fortunately, she is fluent in English,” said Robertson, because his French skills are somewhat limited.

Robertson has been teaching at Aquinas for 40 years and is retiring a year earlier than he had previously anticipated. He says he will miss Aquinas very much and that it will be very different not coming into work everyday. He admits to thinking about what life will be like after Aquinas, saying, “I wonder… will I sometimes dream that I am back in this hallway?” (referring to the hallway in which his office is located). Robertson says that even though he is sad about leaving, he

Phone (616) 632-2975

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

believes that Aquinas will continue to prosper after he is gone. He commented specifically on the new president, Juan Olivarez, and said that he thinks he is “just what Aquinas needs.” After he retires, Robertson wants to take up fishing with his wife and continue to travel.

Gary Robertson has been an excellent member of the Aquinas community for the last 40 years and he will surely be missed. It is easy to say that his students and his colleagues will always remember him. On behalf of the Aquinas community, The Saint would like to wish that the rest of his life be happy, prosperous, and adventurous.

FAV O R I T E S C O R N E R : Movie: Lord of the Rings Book: Foundation series by Isaac Asimov Actress: Meryl Streep Actor: George C. Scott Place to eat in GR: (used to be) Little Mexico Place to Travel: Venice, Italy Sport: Baseball Fun Fact: Once, Robertson had two feeder pigs named Ham and Bacon. He named them these names so that his young sons wouldn’t make the mistake of thinking of them as pets.

3

THE SAINT WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24, 2013

NEWS

North Korea remains Kid Rock keeps unpredictable prices low

By Sarah Parlette The Saint Reporter In light of recent hostilities, it is easy to get bogged down in loads of misinformation regarding the D e m o c r a t i c Pe o p l e s R e p u b l i c o f Korea and its threats to both the United States and the international community.

Most commonly known as North K o r e a , t h e c o u n t r y ’s c a p i t a l o f Pyongyang has been releasing propaganda videos theses past few weeks, as well as becoming more and more vocal about its long range weapons capabilities, particularly to the United States.

Grainy images and video of simulated destruction of the White House and other American national monuments as well as antagonistic rhetoric and the throwing around of the term “imperialist” has caused tensions to rise again and again despite urges from the international community for all parties to remain calm.

Since March, dictator and national leader Kim Jong-un, the third son of previous Supreme Leader Kim Jongil, has been issuing threats to both the United States and U.S. ally the Republic of Korea as well as Japan in retaliation for tighter economic sanctions stipulated by the United Nations.

These sanctions, which came into effect this past March, were in response to a December 2012 satellite

Korean military drills ceased and the sanctions removed.

The question is whether or not the government-controlled country will carry out its threat, and if it does,what are its capabilities?

Recent information from North Korea has stated that the country feels threatened by high American presences on the Korean peninsula, viewing it as invasive due to various military drills that both the United state and South Korea have been jointly w o r k i n g practicing near the North-South border and demilitarized zone.

Pyongyang has been tied to the U n i t e d S t a t e s f o r o ve r 5 0 ye a r s through trade; however, diplomatic relations have always been tense, particularly due to high US military presence on the southern portion of the Korean peninsula since the end of the Korean war.

<<THE PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF KOREA HAS OFFERED TO OPEN CHANNELS OF DIALOGUE WITH THE UNITED STATES AND SOUTH KOREA>> launch, which violated the North Korean Missiles ballistic missiles ban, and nuclear weapons test this past February. The sanctions specifically target North Korean diplomats and severely cut down on the amount of severely needed of food aid.

As of April 18, the Peoples Republic of Korea has offered to open channels of dialogue with the United States and South Korea, stating that such talks would only occur if U.S.-South

Sustainability in general education? with the Chair of the General Education R e v i s i n g One of the biggest issues Committee, that stands in the way of D a n i e l p r o m o t i n g a wa r e n e s s o f Brooks, who environmental problems is encouraged the a lack of knowledge. Two two to continue Aquinas students are making p u r s i n g strides to change this and getting this if they are successful, there class included. will be a wave of students “There are a who will be much more lot of people knowledgeable as a result. who feel like Molly Robertson and Anna these issues Voss, two Sustainable Business are bogus. majors, are urging the faculty They have the at Aquinas to incorporate a mentality that course on sustainability ability it’s our planet in the general education to do what we requirements. want with it, R o b e r t s o n a n d Vo s s but there are expressed that this course others who just would be “incredibly helpful,” a r e n ’t a wa r e not only by educating people but potentially sparking COURTESY BRIAN KELLY o f i t , ” s a i d Robertson. interest in students to take Teaching awareness: Dr. Matthew Teuth instructs a sustainable business With any s t e p s t o s t a r t i n i t i a t i n g class in 2011. luck, Robertson change. According to this course included in the Gen. Ed Robertson, “there is just a general lack requirements signed by their entire and Voss would like to see the class of education” and “education is a step class. They have also received and included in the requirements in the next toward change and action.” The two immense amount of support from two years.

Despite this challenges, both have been working toward getting the students and faculty members. included into the general education Associate Dean of Student Affairs students are still taking steps to show requirement curriculum since January. Jennifer Dawson backed the two the Aquinas staff and faculty that they The class will raise awareness on enthusiastically, providing the two with are serious about this. They have plans sustainability issues with farming, information on what steps they will for a large earth day event, along with promoting the use of alternative fuel need to get this course up and running starting a club that will educate the and removing harmful contaminants as well as suggesting potential material areas youth on the issues that exist in the community and on a larger scale. from beverage containers. They have for the course. already gotten a petition signed to get Robertson and Voss have also talked

By Spencer Wilczewski The Saint Reporter

Flooding problems

By Laura Farrell News Editor Rain, rain, and more rain has caused a headache of a problem for West Michigan. Rain fall measurements and river levels have hit historic levels as flooding has caused major damage around Grand Rapids and surrounding areas like Lowell, Ada, Comstock Park and more. On Sunday, April 21, 2013, the Grand River measured at 21.84 feet, crushing the 1985 record of 19.64 feet.

Many homes found along the Grand River are victims of serious flooding, as homeowners have resorted to rafts and kayaks to retrieve possessions from their homes.

Aerial pictures of the Grand River, downtown and other areas are testament to the massive amounts of displaced rainwater. Volunteers worked over the weekend bagging sand for those who need it.

Aquinas College was not exempt from the flooding as students arrived to campus on Thursday, April 18.

Wege Pond seemed to be triple in size, almost cresting t h e b r i dg e w a l k w a y.

Albertus Hall, the Arts and M u s i c Center, W e g e Center, and Sturrus Sports and F i t n e s s Center all lost power for most of the day on T h u r s d a y.

The power LAURA FARRELL / THE SAINT w a s restored by T h u r s d a y Water, water everywhere: Pipes pump water from various flooded locations back into the Grand River off Fulton St. on April 21. night.

News Editor Laura Farrell

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

By Carly Plank The Saint Reporter Kid Rock will be touring relentlessly this summer behind the 2012 record Rebel Soul on a venture he has dubbed “The $20 Best Show E ve r. ” T h e r a p p e r t u r n e d r o c k sensation from Detroit is known for his working class attitude, but not always for supporting working class politics.

Although the Kid was an outspoken supporter of Republican Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney during the 2012 election, he has been making some highly democratic

How does Detroit’s patron sinner keep prices at rock bottom? He shamelessly plugs sponsors during concerts, sometimes attracting criticism from fans. During the portion of the show before the band returns to the stage for an encore, brands such as Harley Davidson and Jim Beam are spewed across a video screen in mildly distasteful juxtaposition to Kid Rock’s recorded voice chanting about the virtues of American tradition.

M a n y a s p e c t s o f K i d R o c k ’s outrageous character invite mistaken first impressions. Long hair, stage pyrotechnics, and country swagger

COURTESY DAVID MARK

Rock on: Detroit native Kid Rock thinks of fans first as he aims to keep all ticket prices for his summer tour affordable. choices lately, including a recent decision to keep ticket prices as close to $20 as possible for shows on his 2013 summer tour.

When Kid Rock spoke to Rolling Stone earlier this year, he expressed his outrage a policy outlawing what he interpreted as the sale of paperless tickets at event sites in New York.

However, the law in question was put in place to prevent companies such as Ticketmaster from charging extra processing fees on the sale or transfer paperless tickets.

Supporting his fans is not a matter Kid Rock takes lightly. In addition to drastically reduced ticket prices, a section of front row seats will be raffled off to discount ticket buyers at every tour stop, and the prices of beer, food and merchandise will be slashed.

contradict the singer ’s professional work ethic, hometown pride, and loyalty towards fans. Explicit lyrics and a reputation for a hard partying lifestyle often overshadow Kid Rock’s skills as a multi instrumentalist as well as his life as a single father.

Similarly, what appears solely as a commitment to big name sponsors is actually a novel means of keeping concerts affordable for the fan base that helped Kid Rock make a name for himself.

If sponsors can prevent Kid Rock from facing a steep pay cut while simultaneously keeping fans from reaching deep into their pockets to attend his concerts, everyone wins.

New busing system promises easy commutes

By Stephanie Giluk Editor-in-Chief If you’ve never ridden The Rapid before, now might be a good time to consider trying out Grand Rapids’ public transportation system.

According to Mlive, Michigan’s first bus transit line started construction earlier this month right here in Grand Rapids. The Rapid has been planning the Division Avenue Bus Rapid Transit for over a decade and the necessary construction to implement the Division Avenue transit line has just begun and will be completed by summer 2014.

The 33 new stations will be constructed between 60th Street in Wyoming and downtown Grand Rapids, with 29 of the stations to be completed this year and the other four to be completed before August of 2014. The total cost for this phase of the transit line will be around $15.6 million.

The goal of the transit line is to take 40 percent off commuter times, with a bus arriving every 10 minutes during peak travel times (6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.) and every 20-30 minutes during off-times.

There will be special lanes for these buses to travel in, which will help cut down on time as well. The Silver Line bus system will be available in August 2014 as a viable transport

Phone (616) 632-2975

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

option if all goes as planned.

When the new stations are done, they will be equipped with emergency phones, bike racks, more seating, kiosks with which people can purchase rides ahead of time (fare will still be $1.50), snowmelt systems for winter months, surveillance cameras and more.

Senior Karen Heeringa is in favor of the new system. “I voted for the new bus line, and I’m excited for it to start. The security they’re implementing will be a nice change, too, because waiting for the bus alone in the dark can not only be scary, but I often worry that the bus driver won’t see me. It’ll be nice to be in a sheltered area as well, so I’m not standing out in the rain. Plus knowing if I’ve missed the bus or not will save time,” she said.

Until the transit line is complete, the right-hand lanes around each station site will be shut down and construction will include sidewalk and street improvements, landscaping and utility relocation.

For more information, check out ridetherapid.com, where you can find a complete construction schedule for the transit line, a route map and much more.

opinion >> FROM THE CROWD

APPLAUSE TO...

Boston police force, for keeping their city safe in a time of crisis; SNL reruns, for keeping us entertained; The Great Gatsby, for giving English majors something to look forward to; The Saint editorial staff and writers, for making this newspaper possible; Hannibal, for being a delicious new TV show; Paper extensions, for allowing us to procrastinate a little bit longer; The Office, for making eight years in an office seem bearable; Summer, for being just around the corner.

HECKLES TO...

News coverage, for jumping the shark one too many times; Snow and rain, for turning downtown Grand Rapids into a swimming pool;

page

THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24, 2013

It’s really just that simple

By Hillary Najor The Saint Reporter What if I told you to give up technology so that you could only live with your essential needs? I’m sure you would think life would be harder, but in actuality, your life would be simpler. Living in simplicity is challenging, but it is a lifestyle that truly makes life easier.

Almost two months ago, I had the opportunity to go to Jerusalem Farm in Kansas City, Mo. One of their cornerstones is simplicity. For five days, they told us to live without our cell phones. Honestly, it was one of the easiest things I have ever had to do. It made me realize how much I use my cell phone to divert myself when I am in awkward situations or how I use my phone when I am bored for about ten seconds during a shopping trip.

At Jerusalem Farm, I did not have that luxury of using my phone.

It made me live in the present. I was not distracted by my phone during any of my conversations, and I actually had to focus on what people were saying. It made me sad to realize how cell phones have stopped me from living in the present. It also made me realize how much I love the simplistic lifestyle.

Splash, for being a show about C-list celebrities diving into pools; Friday exams, for making us stay here all week; Sleep, for being unattainable during these last few weeks of school;

In the article “Summer research at Aquinas,” Dr. Rob Peters and Dr. Jonathan Fritz were identified in the article as Associate Professors when they are Assistant Professors in their respective departments.

theSaint

By Jarrod Irwin Guest Writer I’m writing in response to Daniel Luckenbaugh’s April 10 letter on the Boy Scouts of America’s policy against openly gay members. I share his concern with the tone LGBTrights debates often take. However, his accusations of hypocrisy overlook the damage the current policy inflicts.

The BSA already has gay members. Since boys as young as 10 can become Boy Scouts, many do so before they’re aware of their sexuality.

When gay Scouts summon the integrity to be honest about themselves, it earns them expulsion from an or-

Stephanie Giluk Laura Farrell Paris Close

Sports Editor Managing Editor

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

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

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

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

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

>> write us a letter!

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

physical copies – AB, Room 2

cause of the lapses of a few, but not discipline a straight Scout for his own actions. This double standard has a name: prejudice.

Compare that to how people are fighting for an inclusive BSA: not by spending millions to tamper with state constitutions, but by asking the BSA’s authorities to change their own policy. Gay people wouldn’t do that if they hated the organization.

They respect it, so they deserve to contribute to it.

It’s fair to scrutinize the tone of this debate. However, opponents’ language does not excuse unjust policies or their morally outrageous rationales.

a tender topic

Alyssa Frese Michelle Szczap

Adviser Dr. Dan Brooks

ganization that, as Mr. Luckenbaugh says, is formative to many young lives. That cuts much deeper than the word “bigotry” ever can.

Besides, terms like that typically describe the current policy, not the BSA itself—the policy’s opponents hate the sin but love the sinner. They know the BSA isn’t bigoted. In fact, many Scouts know that a book saying idolatry causes homosexuality (Romans 1:22-27) shouldn’t be the last word on the subject.

Mr. Luckenbaugh’s letter reveals the double standard behind the current policy. After worrying about gay people’s attractions, he dismisses straight people’s unpredictable reactions to gay BSA members. It’s absurd to exclude all gay people be-

Raising awareness about

2013-2014 E D I T O R I A L B O A R D Editor-in-Chief News Editor Culture Editor

living simple because you know what each ingredient is. If you looked on a box of Kraft Macaroni, you would probably not understand half of the ingredients. Those unknown ingredients do more harm than good. If you were to make your own soup, you would know what is going into the recipe. When we live simply, we can put more time into making meals.

If many questions are asked in the process, it is not simple. Knowing easily how things got there is what creates simplicity.

The world we live in creates barriers from seeing what is important.

I have just started to implement simplicity into my lifestyle therefore I know am I still consumed with technology. I have found that after going without Facebook or Twitter for longer periods of time, I find myself trying to interact in person with people more. I find myself not complaining and causing unnecessary stress over a status I have read. Everyday, I am learning how to live simply. It is difficult to adjust to at first, but once you start to de-clutter your life and use less technology, you’ll see how easy it can be. When we live simply, we rid life of pointless anxieties, and that is when we begin to fully live.

Fighting words

Conspiracy theorists, for being crazy.

In the article “Professor Spotlight,” Professor Anthony Burdick was referred to as “Dr. Burdick,” but he does not hold a doctorate.

Simplicity can be implemented in many different aspects of people’s lives. We live in a consumer filled world. We are told to keep buying to keep the economy going. In the end, we culminate more than we need.

Do we really need all those shirts or purses? Probably not, but we think we do especially if the deal going on says two for one. When we hold onto more things, we become attached to them. If we all consumed less, would we not be on a more equal playing field? If we consumed less, we would be throwing away less trash, which equals less harm to the environment.

If we got rid of those unnecessary items, there would be less things to worry about and to cause distraction in life.

The simple lifestyle does not stop at consumption but extends to where things are bought. Shopping at a local farmer’s market is perfect example. I love exploring the Fulton Street Farmer’s Market and purchasing fruits and vegetables that I love or have never tried before. In the process, I know I am helping the local economy and farmers in the area.

Knowing my vegetables and fruit that I am about to eat have not traveled across the United States is a big bonus to me.

Even making your own meals is

Letters to the Editor

Justin Bieber, for assuming Anne Frank would like his music;

Corrections from our April 10 issue:

4

By Paris Close Culture Editor Before I begin, consider this an informative response to a Letter to the Editor in the April 10 issue pertaining to the Boy Scouts of America’s policy on banning open homosexual participation.

While I know little to nothing about being a Scout, I do know something about being a member of another organization: the LGBT. Though we strive for equality and understanding, we receive a boatload of biblical scriptures condemning our lifestyle and are eventually sent on our way.

It’s no secret we live in a homophobic world and this fact is beyond disappointing. However, what’s more disappointing is opening your college’s newspaper and having to endure reading a letter written by a blatantly stereotypical mind.

In the letter, the author poses one question in particular, referencing homosexual involvement: “How do you suggest that Scouting protect against the possibility that gay

Management E-mail saint.business@aquinas.edu

Phone (616) 632-2975

adults and Scouts may want to have sex with their straight comrades on campouts, and similar scenarios?”

The “possibility” of sexual intercourse with straight men is not linked only to gay men. I found this assumption to be offensive to gay individuals like myself, because we certainly do not all desire to have sex with our straight colleagues.

I’d like mention there is nothing wrong with two individuals wanting to have sex, no matter their gender or sexual identity. There is nothing wrong with having consensual sex; however, I would not consider it appropriate behavior for a Boy Scout trip.

While I sympathize with those individuals who’ve adopted such illiberal concepts, I must cast a light of intellect upon those unknowing.

Let it be known, not every gay individual longs to have sex with another individual because they are straight. We are not wild animals who prey on the same sex. In fact, it is that kind of bigoted attitude responsible for the expanse between both gay and straight peoples today.

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

In reality, straight and gay individuals learn from, live and communicate with one another every day without the imaginary fear of being coerced into sex. We see such thriving platonic relationships in everyday life and more importantly, on our very campus.

Although I cannot bring myself to agree with the author ’s assertions against homosexual involvement in the organization, I am glad we are both able to express our thoughts and feelings on a public platform.

Understand, I am not insisting those reading this article change their beliefs or notions of homosexual human beings. However, I expect everyone to keep one particular thing in mind: homosexuals are Homo sapiens as well.

We are not limited by these malignant stereotypes. We too have morals and feelings just as you all do. And that, my friends, is something I hope you’ll never forget.

culture Movies: More Tony Stark, anyone?

If you were among the many who tuned into the MTV Movie Awards this past Sunday, chances are you were equally excited to see the sneak peak for Iron Man 3. What more motivation is there to finish strong on exams than knowing your favorite superhero flick premieres on the last day of school?

Hold tight, May 3 is just around the corner.

page

5

THE SAINT |WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24, 2013

Television: The Office season finale After eight years of nonstop entertainment, NBC’s The Office bids fans farewell as the series comes to its end this May. The sitcom that brought us family favorites Jim and Pam Halpert and the infamous Michael Scott has certainly left a legacy, spawning nine successful seasons. Be sure to catch the finale this summer Thursday, May 16.

Music: A possible Perry album for the summer While most of you are probably still bumping to Katy Perry’s “Teenage Dream,” the singer’s been shaking things up in the studio with her latest record, working with songwriter Sia Furler (cowriter of “Titanium”). While she kept the details to a minimum, according to Digital Spy, Perry plans to release the album in Summer 2013 (fingers crossed).

<<

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

>> KIM KARDASHIAN

Say what you want about Kim Kardashian, but the star knows how to keep herself in the news. And for good reasons, might we add. Lately, Kim K has been spotted rocking her baby bump body with pride, even snapping a few selfies on Twitter for her caring fans.

COURTESY JASON MERRITT

The Place Beyond the Pines

Let’s talk Disney paris close | culture editor It’s almost that time of the year again.

And I don’t know about you but I’ve been ready for the summer since this semester began. Now that it is finally coming to a close, and the sunny season is vastly approaching, it could only mean one thing: summer jams are cruising in.

Lately, some of Disney’s biggest names have been laying low for some time but are finally emerging this year with new material. Although I could not bring myself to say every return was equally successful or necessary, there have been quite a few artists who have returned with some iPod-worthy material.

So let’s get down to it, shall we?

Selena Gomez: PASS x3 I’ve never liked Selena Gomez. There.

I’ve said it, and now I have egg on my face because I’ve underestimated the musical talents of Bieber’s former love. My use of the term talent is only limited to her musical bracket (teen pop). I heard “Naturally,” for the first time while driving to work in 2010 and caught the worrisome stares of neighboring drivers as I sang and improvised the lyrics at the occasional stop light. But she just couldn’t stop there. No. Gomez had to win me over even more with irresistibly catchy songs like “Round & Round” and the sentimental tune “Who Says.” After withdrawing from her band the Scene last year, the singer has since pursued a solo career. Her first single being “Come & Get It.” If you love Rihanna, as I do, you’re most likely going to enjoy the indigenous reggae tone Gomez has adopted on this soon-to-be summer hit.

Once again, Selena slays.

Miley Cyrus: PASS x2 As if Miss Cyrus wasn’t trying to deviate any further from her Hannah Montana heritage, she goes on to test the flavors of hip-hop for 2013. This is why I give ample praises to Cyrus. Not for breaking away from her Disney tween image but more so for her inclination to take risks musically. I know many fans were either revolted or embarrassed by her return to music in 2010 with “Can’t Be Tamed.”

I’m sure you’ve seen the video where she prances around like a creature you’d expect to see from Harry Potter? Well aside from that catastrophic mess, the album, of the same name, was really as bad (in my opinion, at least).

I was resting on a La-Z-Boy recliner when I first heard Snoop Lion’s “Ashtrays & Heartbreaks,” and almost fell to the floor when I heard Cyrus’ voice. I must say, she’s come a long way to have teamed up with one of hip-hop’s most respected rappers. The song is mellow, relaxed and a winner in my book (and on my iPod).

Demi Lovato: PASS I wouldn’t necessarily consider myself a “Lovatic,” as she so often calls her many supporters. Not because I, myself, am not an avid follower of hers but because the name sounds kind of weird. Nonetheless, I’ve always been a Lovato fan ever since her debut album, Don’t Forget. With every passing record she never fails to win me over with her amazing vocals, which far surpass any other Disney star to date.

“Heart Attack,” her latest success, has become an instant favorite of mine ever since its release in February 2013. I’m sure if she keeps producing breakup songs like this, as well as “Give Your Heart a Break” and “Fix a Heart,” Lovato could easily make Taylor Swift the forerunner of sensationalizing tear jerking music.

Jonas Brothers: FAIL When I heard the JoBros were reuniting for their fifth record, I was probably the only “guy” in the world who actually got all overwhelmed with excitement. I will proudly be the first to admit the music of the Jonas Brothers have tugged on my heartstrings since my time in high school (curse you, adolescent me). But c’mon, you mean to tell me you’ve never gotten the urge to sing “When You Look Me In the Eyes” in the shower or “Burnin’ Up” when no one else is home?

Fine. I stand alone on that one.

Still, no matter how much I adore a band, I will never hand out free passes for a lackluster song. Their supposed comeback single “Pom Poms” is just about as embarrassing to hear as the music video was to watch. Whatever pseudo-soul/ funk direction the band is trying to take is in desperate need of a detour, or perhaps a raincheck on the entire trip. I am officially over this song.

Well this was fun and all but my Biology book is literally calling to me. Paris, have you learned adiabatic cooling yet? Ehh, gotta run. Until next time, enjoy your summer and have fun in the sun!

An authentic American drama

By Paige Graham The Saint Reporter If you’re the type of person who isn’t afraid of the dark, Ouija boards, the paranormal, or the extraterrestrial then The Play Beyond the Pines might just be the perfect movie for you. This movie isn’t classified as a “horror ” film but the story within it is definitely just as terrifying and traumatic as The Exorcist or Paranormal Activity.

The most terrifying part of The Place Beyond the Pines its realism.

The movie is as realistic as any documentary about any average person in any average place. It is truly a tragedy that makes the tears swell and the heart wrench.

The simple story of a couple of young, struggling Americans turns into an explosively dramatic catastrophe and the worst part is that this story could easily be about your best friend, your neighbor, or even you.

Starring Ryan Gosling, Bradley Cooper, and Eva Mendes, The Place Beyond the Pines revolves around the story of a young, degenerate motorcycle stunt rider named Luke (Gosling) who, after having a one night stand with a young girl (Mendes) he meets at a carnival, finds himself in a morally and financially compromising situation. In order to deal with his financial struggles, Luke starts robbing banks and inevitably bumps heads with an ambitious rookie cop navigating a department ruled by a corrupt detective.

The Place Beyond the Pines was directed by Derek Cianfrance, noted for his 2010 movie, Blue Valentine.

Much like his previous films, The Place Beyond the Pines was filmed completely in residential and rural communities, using low-budget and

COURTESY ATSUSHI NISHIJIMA

Scoring big: The Place Beyond the Pines could be the next American classic after scoring rave reviews. handheld cameras to give a more realistic feel. In an online interview with Steve Weintraub, Cianfrance said his extensive background in documentary work played a large part in the creation and direction of this film.

Gosling is nearly perfect in his portrayal of Luke. His bleach blonde hair, irreverent, idiotic tattoos and extremely drab clothing make him very memorable and relatable to the audience. He creates a character that is very distant and impulsive, much like a majority of the one-track minded and poverty-stricken American youth is today. Cooper also pulls his weight with the character

Fall Out Boy makes one heck of a comeback

of Avery, the rookie cop. Cooper allows the audience to experience what many people don’t often think of in modern society—the emotional strife that accompanies the life of a police officer.

Mendes is probably the most surprising with her performance as Luke’s love interest, Romina.

Mendes is not exactly known for very high quality acting but this performance just might change that forever. Mendes portrays Romina, a very soft spoken and troubled young woman who often says twice as much with her face than she does with her mouth. Her subtleness and passion manifests a realness that

might otherwise have not been present in the film.

Rotten Tomatoes has given The Place Beyond the Pines an 81% approval rating with an audience average rating of 4/5 stars. IMDB gave the movie 7.8/10 rating. Personally, I give this movie a 9.9/10 rating.

Although no movie can be perfect, I can honestly say this is the best movie that’s come out in theaters this year. There is not a single person I wouldn’t recommend this movie to, nor do I think there is any person on this planet that would not enjoy this film.

Artist Spotlight:

Caitlin Rose

By Carly Plank The Saint Reporter Artist: Caitlin Rose Genre: Indie, Country Current Album: The Stand-In Comparisons: Kacey Musgraves, Laura Nyro, Tammy Wynette Popular Tracks: “I Was Cruel,” “Own Side Now,” “Shanghai Cigarettes”

COURTESY NIGEL CRANE

It’s about time: Fall Out Boy reunites for an amazing revival album.

By Sarah Parlette The Saint Reporter After keeping everyone in the dark for the last five years, it is safe to say that Fall Out Boy can still summon up a good CD. Their fifth studio album, Save Rock and Roll, released April 16, reinvigorates the band’s old sound and is fairly reminiscent of their earlier tunes.

The new album, full of steady drum beats, holds a lot of anthem-like qualities, from mock-marching rhythms to command-like shouts and battle themed lyrics, despite sort of fizzling out during the last few songs.

Opening the album is “Phoenix,” a hard thumping battle song with lyrics like “put your war paint on.” Fall Out Boy reclaims their former sound and leaves audiences wanting more from the rest of the album while seemingly preparing themselves to fight back for their place on the music charts.

Already released single “My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark (Light Em Up)” drives a thumping, repetitive drum beats with catchy lyrics, getting stuck in one's head over and over. “Alone Together” slows the pace of the album quite a bit but still manages to push audiences through. Vocalist Patrick Stump keeps dreams alive and encourages stay-

Culture Editor Paris Close

ing youthful forever as he croons out the allusive lyrics, “My heart is like a stallion/ They love it more when it’s broken.”

“Where Did the Party Go,” tells the story of a fun couple, their shenanigans, and resurrecting past memories.

While I commend Fall Out Boy for bringing guest artists onto the highly anticipated album, with appearances by Courtney Love, Elton John and Big Sean, they don’t particularly fit in with the story or sound in Save Rock and Roll. For instance, “The Mighty Fall,” featuring Big Sean is a good song and sort of blends well but is a bit overwhelming at first listen. The overlapping sounds make the song seem over-synthesized, burying Stump’s voice, and is way too electronic to match anything else.

“Just One Yesterday,” featuring British singer Foxes, slips in nicely on this song list. A bit slower than the rest, it still rounds out the first five songs cleanly while following the pop-ish theme of love and preparing for life’s adventures.

Overall, Save Rock and Roll is an album that I have had on repeat for a few days and have enjoyed it with each listen. It is a good return album for Fall Out Boy and deserves some attention, if not space on your iPod.

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

Call her Taylor Swift’s more eloquent evil twin.

Compare her to Kacey Musgraves on steroids.

COURTESY LAUREN MITCHELL Just don’t call her a country darling. Caitlin Rose, Well rooted: Rose’s music isn’t to be missed. the chain smoking, Stella Artois drinking 25-year-old Texan mualbum, Rose covered Fleetwood Mac’s sically rooted in Nashville, defies the country-tinged “That’s Alright,” and limitations of genre in a refreshing way. collaborated with other writers for Perhaps the Swift connection songs such as “Own Side,” developing is unavoidable, as Caitlin’s mother, a reputation for tongue in cheek lansongwriter Liz Rose, has earned sevguage set off by a seemingly innocent eral Grammys for songs she penned voice. for Swift herself.

Not surprisingly, The Stand-In was released in March Caitlin Rose has grown up with singer2013 and showcased the maturity of a songwriter aspirations, admiring such talented band, implementing elements artists as Linda Ronstadt, Bonnie Raitt, of country, such as pedal steel guitar and Roseanne Cash. and minimal production, with honest Vocally, Rose has crafted a lilting lyrics and up tempo rock jams blendand soulful delivery with a bell-like ing with the voice of an old soul. The timbre that peaks in the upper range unquestionable highlight of the album of her register. Although no ragged is “I Was Cruel,” a lyrical jackpot with edges are audible, emotion remains just phrases such as “Loving you is the beneath the surface and angst rolls in hardest thing to do/ Hardest thing to with lyrics like thunder clouds gatherdo sometimes” and “I never knew I was ing rain. Complex, intricate phrasing cruel/ Baby, ‘till I met you” that are sure lends originality to the singer’s classical to cut into the core of the song’s inspiracountry and rock influences. tion.

Rose broke into the Nashville inIf Nashville’s edgy girl next door die scene in 2007 when her band Save continues to top previous releases as Macaulay was signed to a local record she has since 2008, taking on more volabel. She left shortly thereafter to purcal and musical risks each time, there sue solo ventures, releasing her 2008 EP is no telling what territory she may Dead Flowers, which features a Rolling cover. Visit thecaitlinrose.com and pick Stones cover as the title song. She folup Own Side Now or The Stand-In to get lowed up with 2010’s Own Side Now, a taste of everything current pop and earning critical acclaim and broadencountry sensations are missing. ing her fan base considerably. On the

Phone (616) 632-2975

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

6

CULTURE

SAMPLER XXV

THE SAINT |WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24, 2013

Yeah Yeah Yeah’s Mosquito

By Sarah Parlette The Saint Reporter & Paris Close Culture Editor Each year, a handful of Aquinas College’s very own talented artists submit works of poetry, short fiction, creative nonfiction and art of various styles to the school’s literary publication, the SAMPLER. A ceremonial reading is held to commemorate these selected artists for their outstanding contributions to the publication.

In addition to the reading, an honorary judge is chosen to present the award for the Academy of American Poetry Prize sponsored by the Academy of American Poets Contest for Colleges and Universities.

Poet and writer Keith Taylor was selected as the final judge for the 2013 prize.

This year’s victor was senior Sarah Branz for her poem “The Spinner,” and the Honorable Mention title went to fellow senior, Danielle Alexander, for her poem “Mother.”

The SAMPLER, now in its 25th year of publication, is a celebration of the creative talent at Aquinas. What makes the publication so special is that it welcomes artists from all walks of life and gives students the opportunity to showcase their artistic abilities.

“It feels absolutely amazing,“said Branz, referring to her win. “It is always so satisfying to be recognized for doing something that you’re passionate about.”

Branz’s winning piece, “The Spinner,” describes the relationship between her and her father as they spin fishing line.

Branz said her poem was inspired by a pottery and textile show where she watched a group of spinners making yarn which reminded her of her father stringing a fishing pole.

While the poem is subtle and succinct, it captures the memory of her father and creates both vivid and nostalgic images perfectly.

For Branz, the SAMPLER win was an unexpected one and something that she still cannot quite believe.

Despite having written “The Spinner” for herself, Branz hopes readers will draw their own meaning from it. “If it reminds them of something in their past or if they can relate to it in some way, that’s what I’d like the poem to emphasize in their own minds.”

Clutch takes GR’s Orbit Room by storm

COURTESY DAN MARTENSEN

Tunnel vision: The eclectic trio takes listeners on an intergalactic ride with a luminous ending.

By Carly Plank The Saint Reporter Mosquito, the fourth studio album by pop-punk trio the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, is the band’s most cohesive and understated effort to date. The textures and emotions of a search for identity within the labyrinthine world of the New York underground give way to dreamy, escapist themes voiced by the inimitable and always intense Karen O. Although the album has its share of low points, a band with a unique vision shines through the darkness.

“Sacrilege,” the album opener, is an exquisitely produced rocker infused with the energy of a gospel choir. The song’s subject matter stands in ironic juxtaposition to the religious fervor of church singers glorifying the immediacy of sin and the curious ability of struggle to infuse lost souls with life. The Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ ode to all things unholy builds powerfully and ends with the final breath of voices in the choir. While listeners will surely be baited and hooked by the ambitious track, the rest of the album fails to reach the standards it sets, although several subsequent tracks are not far from the mark.

“Subway” is a poignant reminder that life in the city is not always filled with human companionship.

The song opens and closes with the rhythm of subway cars while the central character contemplates her identity. The lyric “Caught my reflection in the subway car/ Thought, look at you, whoever you are,” the album’s most insightful, sets the tone for the rest of the journey.

Underground travels border on monotonous until nearly halfway

through the album with “Area 52,” signaling a shift in mood and location. Suddenly soaring above the American West and contemplating aliens, the band finds their groove again with catchy rhymes and energetic guitar riffs. But regardless of a promising introduction and imagery reminiscent of an old science fiction flick, the song begins to drag and continues about two minutes beyond the reasonable attention span of a listener.

Although the middle songs quickly become repetitive and lyrically bland, there is light at the end of the tunnel, in the form of two pseudo-ballads rich in lyrical description and lush instrumentation.

“Despair,” a surprisingly uplifting ode to the powers of dark emotions, showcases Karen O’s triumphant vocals to the heartbeat of ambient drums and shimmering guitars.

“Wedding Song,” a lyrical triumph, ends the record by fusing heaven and hell, proclaiming “In flames I sleep soundly/ With angels around me.”

Despite trudging through the depths of a city for an annoying amount of time, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs manage to redeem themselves on the basis of an artistic statement.

By molding a distinct atmosphere, themes laid out in the first few tracks are carried through to the final words with a lyrical coherence should not be taken for granted.

Whether Mosquito reveals the band’s vision of New York, an alternative America, or simply the emotional trip of a soul in the city, the album captures the beauty of lonesome strife.

COURTESY TODD OWYOUNG

Passion: Lead vocalist Neil Fallon belting out glorious lyrics like a true rock vet.

By Spencer Wilczewski The Saint Reporter On Saturday, April 13, the Orbit Room was aurally transfixed by the grooving thrash of Clutch as they ripped through Grand Rapids on the Earth Rocker Tour. The night was filled with great performances from some of the finest stoner/southern rock bands to grace the stage of the Orbit Room in a long time. With solid sets from Lionize, Orange Goblin and Clutch, it is no wonder the show was sold out.

The thing about a Clutch show is they draw in fans from all walks of life due to their extremely diverse sound because they really do have something for everyone. Clutch’s set started out with the pulsating bass line of “Big News I,” a classic track from their self-titled album. Immediately, it was clear that this was going to be a high energy set. Vocalist Neil Fallon paced the stage like a man possessed, arms flailing in a fury as he shouted out lyrics seething with political criticism and pure heartfelt emotion.

Everyone in the crowd was transfixed by the music. Tim Sult’s guitar lines seared through the speakers, ranging from funky wah driven riffs to straight up thrash.

Clutch kept fans happy by playing songs from nearly every album. It was truly an insane set that lasted over an hour.

“Crucial Velocity” and “Earth Rocker ” were also played with uncanny precision. It seemed everyone was cracking a beer and singing along when they busted into “Elec-

tric Worry,” which was clearly one of many fan favorites. There wasn’t a dull moment during their entire set.

Orange Goblin, from the United Kingdom, gave a valiant set that consisted of straight up stoner jams.

Though the crowd was a little hesitant receiving their sound at first, you could tell as it progressed everyone seemed to warm up to their uniquely grungy tone. Overall, they put on a solid set that gained them at least one new fan.

Lionize’s set was also very impressive. Their music is fantastic: a unique blend of Black Sabbath riffing meets Sublime’s reggae jams. It was great to see a band embrace the jam sound, and to see fans get into a 10 minute long instrumental. The high point of their set was “Dr. Livingston,” a track that truly encapsulates Lionize’s sound, complete with brooding organ lines and an extremely catchy chorus.

Nate Bergman and Henry Upton’s vocal delivery was great. Their voices complement each other in a way that only further enhanced the dynamics of their set. It was a phenomenal night of music, and an allaround good time.

If you missed this show, you missed out big time. It would be well worth it to check out Clutch’s upcoming shows, because no other band come in comparison to their live performances.

Hotel Cassiopeia 42 scores a home run A fantastic visual spectacle

By Paris Close Culture Editor Walking into Aquinas College’s Circle Theatre on Saturday, April 20, was perhaps the best and most memorable decision I’ve made this semester thus far. I had the pleasure of attending the redolent, dreamlike spectacle Hotel Cassiopeia this weekend and I’m immensely grateful I did.

I was both patient and inquisitive while reading the first line of the Director ’s Notes from the play’s brochure: “The play you are about to see is strange.”

Together, we are woven by the same string of curiosity which brought us here.

Cassiopeia immediately grabs hold of you, unraveling the bittersweet, serpentine existence of American artist Joseph Cornell (Kyle McCrumb) whose inquietude steers audiences through his rather peculiar visions.

The production, written by Charles Mee and directed by Randy Wyatt, delicately demonstrates the capacity of dreams, memories and fears. And while the beautiful minimalist set captured much of the unearthly essence of moonshine and starlight shimmer, the most dazzling feature of the performance was, in fact, it’s awesome array of characters.

The sagacious specialists: the Astronomer (Chris Skurka), Herbalist (Jason DeJager) and Pharmacist (Stephen Wright) were without a doubt an entertaining trio with undying chemistry.

The ballerina triad who gave an enchanted recital were especially delightful, more notably, the Singing Ballerina’s (Marisa Purcey) carefully controlled caroling.

Characters like the Poet (Emily Blakowski) and Ticket Girl (Kelli Burns) were appealing and their periodic appearances kept the play at a familiar pace.

AQ’s Cassiopeia was meticulously constructed. I thoroughly enjoyed the silhouetted scene transitions, the incredible bubble show and those silver screen flashbacks to timeless 1940s classics like To Have and Have Not because it only added to the play’s wonderful nature.

While some may become impatient with this play, believe me when I tell you, it is well worth your money and especially your time.

For having taken on such an extremely difficult role of a jittery, socially inept character like Cornell, McCrumb does an astounding job with his remarkable portrayal.

The entire cast is an assemblage of skilled, well-trained actors and actresses. Their performance demonstrates just how naturally each character gravitates towards the other in a rather uncanny way.

The play is indisputably strange and that is the core of its effervescence. A play should stimulate the spectator ’s mind, drawing emotion from every angle. Cassiopeia does both of these things flawlessly and effortlessly.

You find yourself at ease with the calming hymns of the elegant ballerinas, smacking your knee caps at the ever so witty Astronomer and weeping with both sorrow and joy at the expense of Cornell’s fantasy coming to its close.

The play is pays homage to love, loss and dreams unfurled. Above all things, Cassiopeia is tragically beautiful, like clutching a handful of gold then feeling it vanish between your fingers.

Culture Editor Paris Close

COURTESY WARNER BROS

Honoring legends: Warner Bros.’s latest bio-pic pays tribute to the groundbreaking Jackie Robinson.

By Joe Foldenauer The Saint Reporter If you’re in the mood for a feelgood, successful American dream story, 42 is just that. 42 is about Jackie Robinson breaking color barriers by becoming the first AfricanAmerican to play for an MLB team in 1947. Unlike its original, The Jackie Robinson Story, this film focuses mainly on Robinson’s life from 194547.

Newcomer Chadwick Boseman plays Jackie Robinson and proves to be a great actor by showing Robinson’s true athleticism and emotional struggle with many of the Dodgers players and competition.

Harrison Ford plays the religious and capitalist Dodgers executive, Branch Rickey. Rickey is a Methodist who often quotes the

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

Bible and believes players, whether black or white, bring in dollars that are still green, which is the one reasons he insisted Robinson sign for the Dodgers.

What this film does is plainly depict the uglier side of America many of us have only heard of but never experienced.

Racism and segregation at this time were prevalent problems in America and Jackie Robinson was one of many African-Americans responsible for the end of many of these barriers. His wife Rae (played

by Nicole Beharie) grew up on the West Coast, and was previously never exposed to the amount of harsh segregation in public arenas.

Many of the fellow players on the team had a hard time deciding how they felt about Robinson. Some wanted the player gone, some en-

Phone (616) 632-2975

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

joyed him being on the team but a majority did not know what to think of having Robinson as their teammate.

Pee Wee Reese (played by Lucas Black from Friday Night Lights) is one of the few who acknowledged all the hard work Robinson had done and what he’d gone through and offers Robinson to stay with them.

All in all, this movie was very entertaining and inspiring to watch.

Harrison Ford gives one of his best performances since the ‘90s.

Once the movie is over you will want to go out and play a game of baseball with your friends. For a feel-good family friendly film, you cannot go wrong with 42.

sports

page

7

THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24, 2013

Chicago Blackhawks: Duncan Keith in trouble

Soccer: Player punches referee in the face

Grand Rapids Griffins: Beating out the competition

Duncan Keith was accused of sexism as he made rude comments to reporter Karen Thomsen after the Blackhawks’ 3-1 loss against the Vancouver Canucks on Monday night.

Keith was bitter with the loss and was making inappropriate and rude remarks to Thomsen.

In the Indonesia Premier Soccer Leagues this past Sunday, Persiwa soccer player Pieter Rumaropen was so upset with a call against his team that he laid a left hook on the referee’s face. The game was held up for ten minutes as the referee recovered.

The Grand Rapids Griffins have had quite the season. The Griffins are ranked number one in the Midwest Division with an overall record of 42-26. The Griffins have two games left against the Houston Aeros. The Griffins could win big with the success of these next two games.

Finishing Strong

<<

WHAT TO WATCH

>> TRACK AND FIELD

The Aquinas men and women’s track and field teams have had a successful indoor and outdoor season. Taking top places in events such as the long jump, pole vault and 4 by 800 relay, the Saints are pushing the boundaries and improving with every meet. Their next meet is Saturday, April 27.

Detroit Red Wings

End of season draws near

By Hillary Najor The Saint Reporter

COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS

Safe: Senior Renae Tubergen slides into third base in home field action this season.

By Taylor Hodges The Saint Reporter The Aquinas women’s softball team has had an impressive season despite the unfavorable weather.

With an overall record of 17-12 and a conference record of 3-3, the team hopes their confidence will sustain them heading into the remainder of the season. While the rain caused problems in West Michigan and delays for the team, they are not letting it put a damper on their season.

“This season has been very stressful and at times a bit sad.

However, we have not nor will we be shaken,” said senior Renae Tu-

Roundbowl Classic returns

bergen. “It has only made us a more technical and better team. We don’t take a single play in each game for granted because we have had 22 games cancelled.”

Twenty-two games is quite a large number when it comes to cancelled games in a single season.

Tthe team, however, is finding other ways to improve their game on the field while also having some fun off the field.

“With all of the indoor practices, we have been able to refine and perfect our swings in the cages,” said Tubergen. “Since we never play, our team could beat anyone in euchre. It’s a daily thing for us.” With

The Red Wings are on the brink of missing the playoffs for the first time in 22 years having a 3-5-2 record in the last 10 games, with a current 10th place ranking.

On Thursday, April 11, the Wings played a close game against the San Jose Sharks. The Sharks would score in the first period, but the Wings came back in the second to tie it up.

Both teams scored in the third, which lead to play in over time. With neither team scoring in over time, a shoot out was played to decide the game. In the end, the Sharks were victorious with a final score of 3-2.

Then the Wings went on to play the Chicago Blackhawks on April 12 hoping to redeem themselves from the night before and to make up for their previous embarrassing loss to the Blackhawks.

Lots of action happened in the second period, with the Blackhawks

scoring once, and the Wings scoring twice. The Blackhawks would score in the third leading to similar events from the previous night, overtime and a shootout. The Wings again would end up losing 3-2.

From there, the Wings went on to play the Nashville Predators on April 14. The Wings got this much needed win with a score of 3-0. Jimmy Howard received his third shutout of the season.

After a few days of rest, the Wings went on to play the Calgary Flames. The Wings were down after one period, but eventually tied it up in the second.

In the third, the Flames bounced back with two goals. The Wings scored at the end of the third, but their momentum did not last. The Wings ended up losing 3-2.

The Wings only have four games left to push for a playoff spot amongst many other teams who are vying for that coveted playoff spot.

Aquinas Tennis

the impressive talent of euchre players on the team, they’ve managed to transfer that talent on the field. “We swept Olivet Nazarene University who was ranked seventh in the nation,” said Tubergen. “It definitely put Aquinas on the radar.”

With six games left in the regular season before the WHAC tournament in the start of May, the team is looking to not only play some games but win them so they can reestablish their momentum heading into the tournament The Saints will play on April 28 at 11 a.m. against Kalamazoo College.

Both teams look to impress as playoffs near

A rough start Detroit Tigers look to gain momentum after lackluster open lander, coming back from a 7-0 lost against the Yankees, had six strikeouts and a low earned run average of 1.96.

Scoring home-runs in that game were Torii Hunter, Fielder, and Peralta.

Sanchez had a 10-1 victory over Oakland as well. Allowing for only one run and four walks, Sanchez was able to strike out eight of the 28 players he faced. Scoring the only home-run for the Tigers was Austin Jackson in the second inning.

alyssa frese |sports editor

By Joe Foldenauer The Saint Reporter

This Friday, a sporting event will be occurring on campus that has not been held for over two decades.

The Roundbowl Classic used to be one of the biggest sporting events of the year. The game was a throwdown between the men of St. Joe’s and Regina, the two first year residence halls. This tradition was rediscovered by junior Ian MacNeil when he was browsing through an old Aquinas yearbook. MacNeil and junior Joe Broderick decided to co-plan this event to facilitate participation from both residence halls.

This year’s Roundbowl Classic games will be played on Friday, April 26, with the girls beginning at 6 p.m. and the boys at 7 p.m. Women’s basketball Head Coach Linda Nash, Campus Safety Lieutenant Officer Mark McCann and Director of Campus Safety Kevin Kwiatkowski will be refereeing. This event could mark the beginning of a rekindled tradition for many years to come.

With coaching assistance from Aquinas basketball player seniors Clare Conway and Brett Pfahler, competition will be high between both teams as residents from both halls will be participating in this oldschool competition.

The Roundbowl Classic was played when Dean Brian Matzke was an Aquinas student. Comparing it from then to now should be quite the transition. Back then it was an annual event and now the Classic is being resurrected after 20 years.

This fun competition is a great way to get a variety of residents, both athletes and non-athletes to bond and compete to have bragging rights over a rival residence hall.

The Tigers have hit a small slump as we move further into the MLB season. Currently they are ranked second in the AL central standings, but after a 10-0 loss last Saturday against the Los Angeles Angels, that standing no longer remains.

Justin Verlander has not performed as well as Tigers fans would have hoped.

Right now he has a 2-2 record, allowed for 23 hits, six runs and one home run. However, Verlander has struck out 29 batters.

If Verlander is going to live up to his new contract he is going to need to step it up. On a higher note, Miguel Cabrera is having an impressive season, having 25 hits, two home runs, COURTESY SD DIRK and 18 RBIs. Over the last Winding up: Tiger’s fan favorite pitcher Justin Verlander has few weeks there started the season with a 2-2 record. have been a few big highlights. First on the list would be Lately the Tigers have not been pitcher Doug Fister’s 11-1 victory over playing as well. As of Saturday, Detroit the Toronto Blue Jays. Fister pitched has a three game losing streak losing eight innings, struck out five players, against the Seattle Mariners in their final and allowed for only one earned run. game and having lost all games to this Also during that game helping get the point in their series against the Angels.

11 runs needed were Cabrera, Prince In the Seattle game, Verlander was Fielder, Jhonny Peralta, Omar Infante, able to strike an impressive 12 people and Austin Jackson. out, but was not able to prevent nine Three days later in California, Ver- runs from occurring. With more games lander had a nice 7-3 win against the and practice, anything is possible this Oakland Athletics which would start a season for Detroit. four game win streak for Detroit. VerSports Editor Alyssa Frese

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS

Fire back: Junior Aaron Hendrick returns the ball to his opponent in home court action at Orchard Hills this season.

By Taylor Hodges The Saint Reporter With the tennis season winding to a close, the men’s team is riding high on a 14 match win streak. After recently concluding their last regular season match against Kalamazoo, in which they won 8-1, the team is in good shape heading into the NAIA Regionals and the NAIA National Championships.

With two seniors showing tremendous leadership skills along with match play, it comes as no surprise that the team is feeling confident heading into playoffs. Senior Kyle Masteller has been sensational this season, going 4-0 in the WHAC and 18-3 overall in singles. In the doubles area, Masteller is finding the same success being partnered with freshmann Kristoff Saari as the tandem has an overall record of 10-4.

Senior Michael Sendor has chipped in with an overall singles record of 4-3 and 1-3 doubles record to help the Saints to an overall record of 20-4. The freshmen have made quite an impact on the men’s tennis team and have gone for a combined singles record of 53-12.

Leading the freshmen charge with 19 wins is Saari, who has been phenomenal this season. Not far behind him are fellow freshmen Andy

Phone (616) 632-2975

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

Struble and Frankie Fischer, with 17 wins. Already winning the WHAC championship, there is no reason to doubt the team’s ability to go far in the national tournament.

The women’s team has had similar success, going 11-9 overall facing top tier teams. Currently on a roll after beating rival school Cornerstone 9-0, the team is now looking in the direction of the NAIA Regional Tournament.

Leading the charge is junior Lauren Ramey, who has an impressive singles record of 11-5 overall and has gone undefeated in conference play going 3-0. That record has carried over into doubles, where Ramey and freshman partner Rilie DuShane have gone 7-4 overall.

Also contributing to the success of the team are freshman Marjeanne Bothma and sophomore Ariana Kabodian, who have an impressive doubles record of 10-6 overall. While there are no graduating seniors this year, the team has had strong leadership from junior Lauren Ramey, which is going to be important heading into the NAIA Regional tournament.

8

SPORTS

THE SAINT |WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24, 2013

Senior Carlie Giarmo stays motivated and focused on the games ahead

Aquinas men’s lacrosse Saints determined to finish strong

COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS

Never back down: Senior Carlie Giarmo pitches in actions for the Saints this season. Giarmo graduates this year with dual major in Political Science and Business Administration.

By Brian Kalchik The Saint Reporter Initially going into college, senior Carlie Giarmo was hesitant about playing softball at the collegiate level, but after some try-outs at various colleges, Giarmo decided to join the Aquinas Saints.

“After getting to tryouts and talking with Crystal Laska [Aquinas’ head coach], I knew that Aquinas was the best fit for me, both in the classroom and on the diamond,” said Giarmo. Coach Laska has had a huge influence on Giarmo’s career. Giarmo notes Laska as one of the main reasons she decided to join the softball team at Aquinas.

“The first time I met Carlie I knew that she was going to be successful in whatever she chose to pursue. She is a strong, independent and fiercely loyal person,” said Laska. “These qualities make her an exceptional college pitcher. In four years she has put up amazing numbers and continues to set higher goals for herself to achieve.”

Giarmo loved that Aquinas was a small and tight knit community where everybody knows everybody.

“I love the small community experi-

ence, getting to know faculty, staff and other students,” said Giarmo.

Giarmo will be graduating this May with a double major in Business Administration and Political Science.

Giarmo has accepted a job in Detroit at Quicken Loans to learn how to become a mortgage broker. In her time at Aquinas, Giarmo is known for her positive attitude and hard work ethic.

She has maintained a job working at the Sturrus Sports and Fitness Center.

“Carlie began working in the athletics office in the summer of 2012. She has been a large part of the success for day to day operations in the Athletic office as well as with event management,” said Sturrus Building Manager Annie Skukalek. “She was always my go-to gal during basketball season as I could always heavily rely on her to help with anything that I needed.

Her upbeat and friendly personality made the office environment positive on a daily basis.”

Giarmo has many accomplishments that she has achieved over her four years at Aquinas. Giarmo was the Student of the Month for November 2012 for her service during the winter holidays, according to her November 2012 profile. Giarmo is also a Red Cross representative who was re-

sponsible for spearheading the Aquinas Athletic Red Cross Blood drive, which collected 40 pints of blood earlier this year.

Giarmo’s favorite memories during her softball career are not of any particular game or moment, but the relationships that have been built within each season. “Every year, memories were created when bonding with new teammates; it feels like having a new family every year,” said Giarmo.

Junior teammate Ashley Milheim feels that Carlie’s humor both on and off the field really help the team settle down when there are some nerves.

“Carlie can take the pressure during a game… she will make a joke that has everyone shaking their heads and smiling, off the field she has a good balance between having a humorous side and a serious side,” said Milheim.

Despite the amount of games that the Saints have missed due to Mother Nature, Giarmo still believes that the Saints have what it takes to win the conference. “We have a lot of games in just a few days, but if we concentrate and play like we should, there is no reason to think why we can’t win the conference,” said Giarmo.

Aquinas Women’s lacrosse take third place Baseball The Saints at Nationals

By Taylor Hodges The Saint Reporter The Aquinas men’s baseball team has had an outstanding season. Sporting an impressive overall record of 19-12 and 10-5 record in the WHAC, despite having most games cancelled, has given the team confidence heading into the remainder of the season. “The most important games are ahead of us, and if we perform like we are capable we will be in good shape,” said head coach Doug Greenslate. “Our expectations are high to finish strong and make a run at winning the conference tournament.”

The senior leadership has been important during this season, which includes a lot of rained out games and only one outdoor practice. “The weather has impacted college baseball more this spring than I have seen in over 30 years,” said Greenslate. “We have a veteran team with very good senior leadership, so I think our guys will perform up to their capabilities.”

The pitching has been spotty at times this season even though the team has many talented pitchers.

“We have hit a rough patch here recently with winning games due to inconsistent pitching, and lack of timely hitting,” said Greenslate. “ It has been hard for pitchers to establish rhythm and consistency because of the wind and cold weather.”

With upcoming games against Cornerstone and Siena Heights, the team will look to have a strong showing in hopes of making the conference tournament.

COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS

Looking for the pass: Sophomore Alexa Burns looks to pass the ball while sophomore Haley Jacob looks on .

By Alyssa Frese Sports Editor This past week while Grand Rapids was getting pelted by rain and unfortunate weather, the Aquinas women’s lacrosse team traveled to St. Louis, Missouri to play in National Women’s Lacrosse League Tournament. The Saints played three games while in St. Louis. On April 18, they beat Midland 19-12 in the quarterfinals. The next day, the Saints played a hard match against SCAD which resulted in a 15-10 loss for the Saints.

This did not discourage them as the Saints came out the next day hungrier than ever for a final win. With a final victory of 22-12 over Robert Morris, the Saints were able to take home third place in the NWLL Tournament. This was a great way to end Sports Editor Alyssa Frese

a well-played season for the Saints.

“The team played great, we really started playing as a whole instead of individuals. Third place is great, but I feel that we could have won it all,” said junior Alisa Skluzacek. “At Nationals I realized how much this team is my family, and how all the girls are a huge part of my life. I am truly going to miss the seniors next year.”

The Saints finished the season with an impressive record 14-6, going 4-2 in the WHAC conference.

With only four seniors graduating, anything is possible for the Saints next season “Even though we did not end with the result planned for, we still played well as a team overall,” said junior Bailey Terebinski. “It was great to send off our seniors with a win.”

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

ALYSSA FRESE//THE SAINT

Prepare yourself: Junior midfielder Dylan Oxender plays offense in action for the Saints this past Saturday against Taylor.

By Hanna Dugan The Saint Reporter The Aquinas College Men’s Lacrosse team has had a challenging season. For this young team, the year has a learning experience. The team is composed mostly of freshman and sophomores with only a single graduating senior, Connor Sutton. The Saints were led by Head Coach Luke Griemsman and Assistant Coach Doug Seites. Between the two of them, there is an obvious love for the sport. This same love is evident in the players as well.

One such player is freshman attack and offensive mid-fielder Ryan Ruschmann. Ruschmann has been playing lacrosse for 10 years and has an obvious passion for the sport.

When asked to evaluate AQLAX as program, he identified their strength as being their athleticism.

He stated, “Even though our passing and catching skills may not always be there, we tend to always have more athletic ability than our competition.” He also gives great credit to Jimmy Watt, “our goal keeper. He is very skilled at his position. As a captain he is a very vocal leader. He can tell the defense who’s hot and who’s cold.” This vocal ability is something that Seites emphasized as being crucial to a strong defense.

When examining this year ’s defense, Seites admitted that AQ “defense is our stronger point so far as a program. We are still really young defensively and this can cause headaches now, but will be an advantage later.”

One standout defensive player this season has been freshman Austin Phillips. Seites described him as “a good athlete who’s already got the physical side. As he has been playing this season he has slowly figured out the mental game.” His teammates and coaches all agree that he will be a rock for the defense in the years to come.

Phillips, who has also been playing lacrosse for 10 years, described the season as “a rollercoaster. There were obvious disappointments, but it was a good season.” He notes that the biggest of those disappointments was the team’s second loss to Indiana Tech.

Phillips believes the loss is the result of making basic mistakes, something that Griemsman would agree with. He admits that most of their struggles “come from not having players grounded in strong fundamentals.” Griemsman recognizes that a large percentage of the team started playing lacrosse later in life and are still cultivating those skills.

But that does not mean anyone should count the Aquinas lacrosse

Phone (616) 632-2975

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

team out. Amongst this group of young men, there is enormous potential for success. In fact, Seites suggests that this class of freshman might be the best Aquinas has seen since the outset of the program.

The freshmen class is strong, diverse and commanding. However, one would be remiss in failing to mentioning players like Tim Hansen and Connor Sutton. These are young men who approach everything with a “game seven” mentality, in not only games, but practice as well.

Sutton, the team’s only graduating senior, brought heart to the team that will be missed. Phillips notes that “his attitude, even in practice, will be missed. It motivates all of us.” He also believes that emulating Sutton’s attitude will lead to more AQ victories.

Ruschmann similarly pointed out that Sutton was a player who “went hard every day. It didn’t matter if it was raining, snowing or beautiful outside. He was consistent.” Sutton is what one coach described as the ideal lacrosse player as far as dedication and character are concerned. Griemsman said of Sutton, “He was a pleasure to coach.

There was never a cool or negative attitude.”

In looking to Sutton’s example, the team will learn some of the focus the Ruschmann believes they lack at the moment. Potential players who could step up and fill that gap upon his graduation are Jimmy Watt and Hunter Perry.

With such a young and strong team, the future of AQ lacrosse is bright. There is a desire to win, a desire to be great and a desire to represent the school with integrity and strength. Seites points out that “even when we’ve ended up on the wrong end of the scoreboard, I never see a guy give up in a game.”

Looking to the future of Aquinas lacrosse, there is great and obvious potential. Phillips noted his passions for Aquinas lacrosse, “I play because I love the sport, because there is potential here, and because I want to build a powerhouse. I could have played somewhere else and sat on the bench for a few years, with little playing time. But here, as a strong freshman class, we could be the team that starts it all. As a team, we could be the ones that take the program to the top. We can have an impact here.”

With most of the team returning, the Saints are looking forward to another great season next year.