The Saint :: Issue 12

Summer Music Fests | 6

A Man’s Perspective on Feminism Saint Reporter John Sainz explores the foundation and ideals of feminism through a modern lens

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Wednesday, April 29, 2015 Volume 34, Issue 12

>>NEWS Art of the Lived | 2

Staff Writer Natalie Przybyla reviews the latest art exhibit at the Urban Institute of Contemporary Art

Baltimore Riots | 3

Saint Reporter John Sainz gets you up to date on the riots in Baltimore

>>CULTURE I Hate Hamlet| 5

Saint Reporter Mariah Cowsert reviews this well received AQ Theatre’s twist on Shakespeare

Get Hard | 6

Saint Reporter Kati Doering reviews Will Farrell’s latest blunder, Get Hard

>>SPORTS AQ Fishing | 7 Staff Reporter Mitch Ringer fills you in on the possibility of a fishing club at AQ AQ Baseball | 7

Saint Reporter Crysta Paganelli reviews the Men’s season and how they stuck together amidst injury

Have a great summer! XOXO, The Saint

On the Road to Zero The 19th Annual Wege Speaker Series brings sustainable architect to discuss the Road to Zero

By Chucky Blackmore News Editor On Thursday, April 23, the nineteenth annual Wege Foundation Speaker Series continued with a discussion on the rapidly changing future of architecture in a world of urban sustainability. Ed Mazria spoke at this year’s event; Mazria is the head and founder of Architecture 2030, an organization designed to transform the architectural world from one that contributes to the production of many greenhouse gas emissions to one that serves as a solution to many energy crises.

Before Mazria was introduced, guests welcomed Andrew Goodwillie, grandson of the late Peter Wege, who talked about his days growing up in Ada, Michigan and exploring the rustic woods behind his house.

Goodwillie reminded the crowd how important the environment was to his grandfather: “For Peter Wege, everyday was Earth Day.” At the beginning of Mazria’s presentation, entitled “The Road to Zero,” he talked about the big infrastructural change in Toronto, Canada from 1891 to 2010. Coal mines and fossil fuels were increasing resources for energy, but life expectancies of coal miners averaged around 30 years old. Mazria said that things needed to change for the future of building, both for the economy and the environment. In 1928, the International Congress of Modern Architecture (CIAM) was created in Europe to spread principles of modern industrial design to the rest of the world. From this modernist movement, the Lever House in New York City was created in 1952, paving the way towards a more sustainable world for architecture firms everywhere. Though CIAM disbanded in 1959, its influence on people

Forever a Saint The future looks bright for the Class of 2015

be going on to teach at Glen Helen Outdoor Education Center as a naturalist. Robertson’s job will consist of educating inner-city Some were here for four years, others for children, caring for her personal owl, and six. Some leave with memories of friends and putting on skits for the children throughout long laughs and tears of joy, frustration and their outdoor experience. stress. No matter where they stood or where Molly Robertson will be leaving they are going, they will walk next week with Aquinas with silly memories of sassy nuns heads tall and futures ahead. who release squirrels into house mother’s The Aquinas College class of 2015 is a rooms and a desire to finally have more time class of finallys and alreadys. Dale Domer is to volunteer. finally graduating! At the same time, I can not Chemistry major Nick Pierce is believe Molly Robertson and Nick Pierce will looking at graduate schools to expand and be gone already. define his place Fine Arts in the scientific major Dale community as a Domer is excited researcher and and terrified pharmaceutical to become his developer. own voice. He T h e is currently incredibly interning at intelligent Pierce Frederik Meijer is leaving us Gardens and with the words enjoying his of wisdom: time installing “It’s good to COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS and caring for the have fun and sculptures. Domer procrastinating is a fifth-year student whose fabulous art is okay.” work can be seen all about the AMC in the Pierce is paving his own path towards BFAArt Show. Domer has incredible balance the West, looking into places like the and harmony within his sculptures; some University of Denver, the University of would say that Dale Domer is a sure shot Colorado and the University of Hawaii, and to run with the big art boys around GR and also in the east at Stony Brook in New York. might one day have his work displayed at Pierce mentioned the chemistry Frederik Meijer Gardens with many great department’s high standards they kept and others. could not single out one professor from the Domer is excited to move on, but he will mix to thank. Pierce also wanted to remember miss the art department for all they have done his very unique set of friends who got so close for him and helped him with. He has come that the inside jokes grew into almost a new so far in his work and leaves Aquinas with a language for them. Nick Pierce will soon walk new knowledge of values and a rhythm to away from Aquinas remembering the lost step into the art world. dog he once saved from the harsh conditions Environmental Studies and English Grand Rapids and how he connected more major Molly Robertson has quite the setup with the dogs on campus than the people. after college, but says she will always love and Aquinas will miss our graduates greatly miss Aquinas. Robertson wanted to honor the and wish them the best of luck with their art, entire English and Geography departments. their work, and their studies. We hope to see Professors like Jennifer R. Dawson, Rebecca their names in lights, on chalkboards, and on J.Coogan and Richard E. McCluskey came patents. Cowabunga, class of 2015. It looks up a lot in her stories from the classrooms of like you finally made it.

AB. They would be glad to hear that she will

By Natalie Przybyla Staff Writer

Haley Jacob | 7

COURTESY WEGE FOUNDATION

On “The Road to Zero”: Ed Mazria, head and founder of Architecture 2030, attended this year’s Speaker Series to discuss the future of architecture and sustainability. like Mazria has been substantial.

Later in his presentation, Mazria discussed that we were in the midst of a big problem: by 2030, the world population will roughly inhabit 8.3 billion people; 1.16 billion of those people will live in big industrial cities, creating more than 900 billion feet of infrastructure (equivalent to building a New York City every 35 days). Without an effective approach to constructing large-scale buildings, carbon dioxide emissions are expected to increase significantly.

In the early 2000s, Mazria states, big architecture firms are adopting “The

Road to Zero” plan to eliminate the use of fossil fuels by 2030 (zero emissions).

The shift for these firms have produced many positive outcomes. From 2005 to 2013, consumers spent $560 billion less on energy; this is money that stays in the local economy and can be used for important things, like sending children to school, rent, and much more.

Near the end of his presentation, Mazria offered some relevance to the Catholic Aquinas community. He stated that Pope Francis is scheduled to meet with environmental councils to discuss the different methods of cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions to ensure

God’s earth will provide its people with a healthy living environment for many years to come.

Optimism concluded Mazria’s presentation when he mentioned that, as of 2013, 58% of the world’s energy is created by renewable resources, like solar and wind power, and hydroelectricity.

“The problem is simple to solve,” said Mazria. “We are just too focused on storing the emissions rather than eliminating them.”

At this year’s Wege Speaker Series, Ed Mazria proved “The Road to Zero” is in fact achievable if we each take part in making the world a better place to live.

Relaying to Save Lives The AQ community bands together to raise over $5,000 in proceeds for cancer research

By John Sainz The Saint Reporter As the ground outside begins to thaw, spring offers opportunity for a lot of firsts on the AQ campus; one of these opportunities was the first Aquinas College Relay For Life event held at Alksnis Athletics and Recreation Building that took place last Friday.

Hosting approximately 65 attendees and raising a total of $5,801.17 for the American Cancer S o c i e t y, t h e A q u i n a s c o l l e g e Programming board and Saints For a Cure decked out Alksnis for a night full of fun, commemoration, a n d c h a r i t y. T h e e v e n t l a s t e d from 8pm Friday until 2am the following morning, incorporating a free dinner, open mic, giveaways, dodge ball, yoga, and other carnival entertainment. The new track was well broken in by Saturday morning.

There was never a dull moment at the relay, as AQPB designated themed laps to be walked around the 200-meter track, such as throwback, Pajama, Lung cancer awareness, a n d p u r p l e l a p . T h e n i g h t wa s also segmented into four different c e r e m o n i e s : o p e n i n g c e r e m o n y, l u m i n a r i a c e r e m o n y, f i g h t b a c k ceremony, and, of course, the closing ceremony. The programming board balanced fun and games with respect and memory for those affected by cancer.

At 10:30pm, the lights went down as dozens of candle-filled, decorated paper bags illuminated the building in memory of those lost and afflicted.

Senior AQPB coordinator Mackenzie Glaros stated: “The luminaria was one of my favorite parts of the night, even

JOHN SAINZ//THE SAINT

On Track for a Change: The AQ community aligned the track in Alksnis Athletic and Recreation Building on April 24 to help raise money for cancer awareness. though it was a more somber part.”

Junior attendee Miranda Burel commented that, “It was a beautiful experience with a lot of emotion, and I am just so thankful to have such a good group of people behind me here at AQ. Oh, and I cried a lot.”

The event was organized and coordinated by AQPB and Saints For a Cure with the help of Campus Life Assistant Director Timothy Ramsay, and Choir Director Dr. Mark Webb.

“We couldn’t have possibly done it without Mark and Tim,” says Junior AQPB coordinator Colette Chapp.

“Mark brought the idea of hosting Relay at AQ to the student body and Tim put a lot of time and Campus Life knowledge into the event to make sure it went off without a hitch.”

When asked about key students who were fundamental in the night’s

success, Glaros said, “It would be a toss up between Lindsey Friend and Colette Chapp. We all worked so hard on the event since November, and it could not have been done without them.”

Glaros also emphasized that it is her “deepest hope” that the event continues to be held at AQ in the years to come, but stating that it is in the hands of the future committees and clubs, concluding, “Ultimately, we definitely accomplished what we set out to do.”

From Brazier-pong and yoga, t o g r o u p p r a ye r s a n d c a n d l e l i t memorials, the miles walked last Friday night burned a successful trial for the continuation of AQ’s long-lasting tradition, the ACS Relay for Life.

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THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29, 2015

Aquinas: Birdathon holds the AQ Biology Department under its wing

Ohio: A new roller coaster has been added to Cedar Point

National: Baltimore riots turn violent in light of Freddie Gray’s death

World: Nepal on the verge of life and death

The AQ Biology Department has joined TriBeta (part of the National Biological Honors Society) and Grand Rapids Audubon Club to hold the West Michigan Birdathon and Nature Festival. Saturday, May 16 will be the pinnacle day of the Birdathon, which will be held at Donnelly Center and will include an array of activities.

Cedar Point, the mecca of roller coasters, introduces a new attraction: The Rougarou Flyover. The new roller coaster will debut on May 9 and it is the park’s first roller coaster without a floor under the riders’ feet. The name derives from a mythical legend of the swamps; speeds around 60mph send thrill-seekers howling in fear and excitement.

After a reported death of a black man who was allegedly beaten by police, riots in Baltimore, Maryland. Baltimore Governor Larry Hogan declared a state of emergency, calling in the National Guard to help control rioters. After a heavy night of violent protests and looting, Hogan promises that there will not be anymore violence.

An earthquake with magnitude 6.7 occurred near Kathmandu, Nepal on Apr 26, 2015, according U.S. Geological Survey. More than 4,600 people died in the worst earthquake there in more than 80 years, with many more feared trapped under rubble. The U.S. sent a disaster response team to Nepal and provided around $1 million to address immediate needs.

Excellence in yourself can be found

World News

The Art of the Lived debuts in Grand Rapids

By Zoe Harmon Staff Writer Arete—finding yo u r e x c e l l e n c e .

This is what formed the Arete Biking Retreat of 2015.

The group of 20, which was led by Elizabeth Sensing, and co-led by Jimmy B i r n e y, D a n i e l Luckenbaugh, Kateri Sullivan-Golbiw, Alan Lally, and Tara Doud,made the 20-mile journey from Aquinas College to Rockford on Saturday, April 11. It was an adventure that provided growth physically, mentally, and spiritually.

On Friday, April 10, amidst the rain showers, the Arete group came together to start the retreat. Once everyone met and shared something they liked, where they were going, something they hated, something they loved, and an odd fact (also known as “The Hand Game”), we were off to adoration at Bukowski Chapel. As we sat in silence, it was apparent that His Spirit was present and blessing each of our lives.

We had time to reflect and think about ourselves and those around us. This experience proved to be a positive start to a great weekend.

Saturday began early with Mass at Bukowski, followed by a blessing from Father Stan for each biker. It was meaningful to get the group together and thank Christ for this amazing opportunity and the chance to share in this adventure together.

Then it was finally time for biking.

During the 20-mile trek, we stopped multiple times for workshops and reflection. Leaders shared personal stories meant for growth and inspiration, and members split into small groups for a time of self-reflection. What was shared in these workshops and group meetings touched each individual in many ways. It was encouraging to hear stories and establish a deeper connection with fellow students.

There was also plenty of time along the journey for the bikers to talk and get to know each other. Personally, this was one of the best parts of the entire trip. For one, it made the trip fly by. We often got caught up in conversation, asking questions about one another and carrying on conversations throughout the ride. Also, we had the opportunity to create new friendships. This was especially meaningful as some of us had never met before Friday night.

Hearing each other’s stories, likes and dislikes, and everything in between helped us grow together.

We also got to know each other through the “Hat Game,” a fun, crazy game that involves describing and acting out words or phrases that each member had written and placed in a hat. From members having to act like a platypus, to not knowing any words to describe “Uteruses before Duderuses,” this game proved to be obnoxiously fun, and let us all share in laughter together. Mary Clark-Kaiser, Director of Campus Ministry, even got involved, so you can imagine that was pretty awesome.

Overall, Arete was an adventure to remember. Through the never ending hills on Diamond Avenue that my group decided to conquer on the way home, to the meaningful self-reflection we shared with one another, and lastly to the strong friendships that were made, Arete was a wonderful journey in finding our excellence.

ZOE HARMON//THE SAINT

Arete: AQ students biked from Aquinas to Rockford in a spiritual retreat.

Experimental and abnormal art is expressed within the walls of the UICA

By Natalie Jo Przybyla Staff Writer

COURTESY WWW.RT.COM

Shoot to kill: Head of the Chechen Republic, Ramzan Kadyrov, issued an order of attack against people from other regions who operate without permission.

By Yashowanto Ghosh Staff Writer CHECHEN REPUBLIC — Ramzan Kadyrov, Head of the Chechen Republic, issued shoot-to-kill orders against people from other regions operating without permission within his borders in a statement on Friday, April 24, reports The Guardian. The orders were provoked by the killing of Chechen native Dzhambulat Dadaev in Chechen capital Grozny by policemen from the neighboring region of Stavropol on Sunday, April 19. Dadaev had been on Russia’s federal wanted list.

Russian Interior Ministry said Kadyrov’s statement was “unacceptable.”

EUROPEAN UNION — An emergency summit that started on Thursday, April 23, is expected to offer resettlement to only 5,000 refugees in Europe and repatriate the majority; also to increase funds for rescue operations in the Mediterranean and take military action against human traffickers, reports The Guardian. Deaths in the Mediterranean in the last week alone have numbered 1,700.

The volume of asylum seekers is currently the highest it has been since the war in Yugoslavia, says The Washington Post.

GREECE — Russia has offered the debt-riddled Alexis Tsipras government a pipeline deal which would turn Greece into an energy hub, reports The Telegraph.

The deal would guarantee gas supplies for 10 years, create 2,000 new jobs, and provide between 3 and 5 billion euros in advance payment. Greece must repay 750 million euros to the International

Monetary Fund in May, according to Reuters. Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Kotzias said that the USA is preparing a “counter-offer.”

ITALY — Authorities arrested nine people suspected of being part of a terrorist cell in Sardinia on Friday, April 24. Nine more suspects were still being sought, three of whom were still believed to be in Italy, reports The Telegraph. The suspects had been under investigation for ten years for human trafficking and for sending money to the Taliban and to al-Qaeda, and had reportedly been plotting a suicide bombing at the Holy See at one point.

MACEDONIA — Fourteen refugees were hit and killed by a train on Thursday, April 23, reports Reuters. The victims were among a group of 50, most of them from Somalia and Afghanistan, who were following railway tracks from Macedonia to Serbia on foot after dark. The train sounded the horn and stopped, but failed to avoid part of the group. Refugees have been increasingly using land routes to western Europe instead of trying to cross the Mediterranean.

N E PA L — A n e a r t h q u a k e of magnitude 7.9 hit near the capital Kathmandu on Saturday, April 25, reports The Guardian. The earthquake was felt as far away as India and Pakistan.

Over 4,600 people are said to have been killed. Kathmandu is situated in a valley in the Himalayan nation and is densely populated with 2.5 million inhabitants.

The earthquake was the biggest in the region since 1934, when an 8.0-magnitude earthquake killed over 17,000.

A r t o f t h e L i v e d Experiment at the Urban Institute of Contemporary Arts is a sure sight to see.

Offering works o f a r t f r o m o ve r nineteen world-renowned artists and a great pile of masterpieces from Grand Rapids, the UICA is proud to say Art of the Lived has l i ve d i n G R t h r o u g h t h e m .

It is a show whose goal is to take notice to people who live and make art experimentally and a b n o r m a l l y. T h e v i d e o , a u d i o , photographic and sculptural work of The Ship of Fools by To y n b e e S t u d i o s i s a p e r f e c t example of what the UICA has w i t h i n i t s wa l l s t h i s s p r i n g a n d s u m m e r.

The Ship of Fools is a project b y a s t r e e t a r t i s t w h o wa s t o l d t o go int o a ment al hospit al af t er attempting to commit suicide and frequently cutting himself but he said “No, no, no.” The Ship of Fools was a start-up group to gather suicidal people who want another outlet than some pills and a comfortable room. They created the Mental Health Act of 2011, nuces, t-shirts, and photographs from t h i s p r o j e c t a n d e ve n we n t a s f a r to make a simulation of what it f eels like to jump of f a seventeen story building. “Sometimes art imitates life, and sometimes life imitates art.” said the video.

By the end of the experience, I was lost in the project. This and many other pieces had this p o we r f u l o f a n e f f e c t o n m e .

Another cool thing about what the UICA is now showing is work from students of Kendall College of Art and Design. It is t r u l y i m p r e s s i ve h o w t h e wo r k

NATALIE JO PRZYBYLA/THE SAINT

Art of the Lived Experiment: Issac Smith from KCAD painted “Officer Yeezus Putting His Life at Risk, Literally.” these students make matches up with the world renowned artists’.

Tw o o f m y p e r s o n a l f a v o r i t e s from KCAD were Shannon M c D o n e l l ’s Tr a n s f o r m a t i o n f o r its beautiful color palette and m o v e m e n t a n d I s a a c S m i t h ’s O f f i c e r Ye e s u s P u t t i n g H i s L i f e At Risk, Literally for its black a n d w h i t e va l u e s a n d t h e s i l l y wa y i t f i t s i n p e r f e c t l y w i t h t h e other strange pieces of Art of t h e L i ve d .

A r t o f t h e L i ve d i s a l l a b o u t i n c l u s i v i t y. T h e s h o w i s f r e e a n d ran from April 10 and will go until July 31. I would recommend going here to take a break from all the cramming of this week.

The show features not only mediums of paint, photograph, and sculpture, but also video and audio experiences that are s u r e t o m o v e a n d r e l a x m a n y.

Ta k e y o u r m i n d o f t h a t s u p e r hard biology exam. Go to the UICA and feel something.

A jamming new tradition: AQpalooza rocks the campus

By Liz Ptaszynski The Saint Reporter Rain or shine, the show must go on.

That seemed to be the motto here at Aquinas last Tuesday and Wednesday, April 21 and 22. With some whiplash from Mother Nature, we received a little more than we bargained for.

Though this cold weather might have kept some people huddled in their dorms under sweats and blankets, we all know that it takes more than a little cold weather to keep a Saint from performing. April 21 was a big day for AQ. It marked the start to a brand new tradition: AQpalooza. Put on by both the Music Club and The Saint, this two-day festival allowed students the opportunity to hear their fellow classmates perform and showcase their talents. Though AQPalooza was originally meant to take place outside the AMC in the amphitheater, the event was moved indoors to Kretchmer Hall after the sudden drop in temperatures.

But in true show-biz fashion the show went on.

The first day brought us the jazzy melody of the Bossa Brothers, with such a great stage presence, the crowd could not help but to be drawn to them.

Following the Bossa Brothers was the ever talented and graceful senior Anna Egres and the Black Mama Caimans, who hit all the right notes that made

LIZ PTASZYNSKI/THE SAINT

Easing the stress with soothing rhythms: AQPalooza allowed students the opportunity to hear their fellow classmates perform and showcase their talents. everyone want to sing along. The night concluded with the crushing guitar and moving vocals from Long Term Access.

As the audience tapped their feet along to the music, the night was able to end on a high note. The event had a great turn out and offered raffles with prizes from Vertigo Music, Applebee’s, and Meijer. The fun didn’t stop there.

The next day brought the romantic

News Editors Anna Musiyenko & Chucky Blackmore E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

and folk rhythm of Wake Up Autumn.

With various use of instruments ranging from a standup bass to a ukulele, this dynamic duo was able to mellow the audience with an earthy sound that seemed to set the tone for the rest of the night. Next up was the bluesy guitar and soul vocals of Heading Everywhere Nowhere Fast.

“I had so much fun playing at

Phone (616) 632-2975

AQpalooza. It was really great to see people come out and genuinely want to listen to music,” said lead singer and sophomore, Conrad Schaak.

The night closed with the indie-rock melodies of Velcrofibs. With such a well-known name around campus, this band did not disappoint. The crowd bobbed their heads to their favorite originals and sang along to some classic covers.

“I think the show went very well.

It was a blast to play and overall very enjoyable,” said singer and junior, Joey Frankovich.

The event was a great success and a great experience. “I really hope to make this an annual event. Our hopes is to get even more RSOs involved and make this a trademark at Aquinas that gets bigger every year,” said sophomore Mike Pierce, the president of the Music Club, after the event was concluded.

If you weren’t able to come out to this event, keep in mind that Exam Cram Week is now among us. Students will be able to participate in some of the last on-campus activities of the year, so take a break from your studies and come on out. It’s our duty to show our maroon and gray pride as Saints and to end the school year right. These social events are key to our college experience. It’s with them that we are able to interact with other students and truly discover who we are.

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

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NEWS

THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29, 2015

“Free For All” kind of day in the downtown Grand Rapids area

A look into former President Van Buren and his ties to the Democratic Party & Catholicism

Visitors took to viewing several Grand Rapids museums during the fourth annual “Museum Free For All” feedback.

Next up was the Grand Rapids Arts Museum, which unfortunately, because it was busy, I was unable to get a hold of a program director, but from what I could gather, the museum itself did have a couple of interesting events going on. For one, the band Fire Alarm played outside from 2-3 P.M. and the museum would be retiring its “Water” exhibit by Edward Burtynsky. That being said, I have been to this museum a couple of times and have enjoyed what I have seen. Because of the popular response, I can only assume

the two other museums in the event, the Gerald R. Ford Museum and the Grand Rapids Public Museum. At GRFM, I Four years ago, a tradition started in spoke to Public Affairs specialist Kristen Grand Rapids--a tradition that would Mooney who said, “We enjoy being able flood the streets with families and art lovers to be part of the ‘Free for All’ every year.” alike. I am talking about Grand Rapids This enthusiasm showed with the annual “Museum Free For All” event in crowd of people out front and their downtown Grand Rapids, sponsored by signature events for the day, which Amway, an American company that sells included the presence of Girls That Rock, a variety of products through multi-level who played out front from 1-3, and its core marketing. Sunday, April 26 was the exhibits, which included the “Taking the day of the year where all the museums Seas” exhibit. in downtown Grand Rapids offer free The last on the five museum admission to the tour was the general public, Grand Rapids no exceptions. It Public Museum, is a day where which is a marvel the public can to be seen. Even enjoy what the ignoring the museums have events going on to offer and enjoy inside, the GRPM special activities was filled with art and music at each by every square museum. The five inch. It was a museums that museum that felt took part in the alive. I highly extravaganza were recommend the Urban Institute checking this for Contemporary museum out at Arts, the Grand any opportunity.

Rapids Art During the “Free Museum, the for All,” the Gerald R. Ford museum had M u s e u m , Va n all of its exhibits Andel’s Grand open, including Rapids Public “ T h r o u g h Museum, and the the Eyes of Grand Rapids Weidenaar” and C h i l d r e n ’s “Be Curious Museum.

Egypt.”

In One of the more addition, the popular spots in COURTESY ARCHITECTURALDIGEST.COM museum hosted the lineup was It’s a Free for All: People from all around the Grand Rapids area took part in Sunday’s Aerial Tactic, a the Grand Rapids festivities. break dancing C h i l d r e n ’s group, from 1 to Museum, which boasted having the whatever was going on was a ton of fun. 3 P.M. It also had Planetarium showings longest line, almost circling the block.

Another museum in the lineup was for $8, carousel rides for $1, and a tribute Unlike the other museums, the GRCM the UICA, which was the last museum to Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon.” did not have an extensive lineup of to join the yearly jamboree, as 2015 Vice President of Marketing and Publicity events, but instead let what it had to offer served as the first year for the institute’s and Public Relations Kate Moore added inside regularly for the children to be its involvement. Its programs included a her opinion of the day: signature for the event. It goes to show family art activity based off two exhibits, “We [were] very excited to partner that sometimes you do not need special one of which was its “Art of the Lived” with Amway and all the downtown events to become a popular spot, as the exhibit. It also showed “The Goonies” museums to open our doors free of charge place was packed with families. from 12:30 to 3 P.M. to the community.”

Even Executive Director, Bob Dean Communication and Marketing Walking in downtown Grand Rapids said, “We’ll probably have 1,400 people Coordinator Katie Zychowski commented with all the people, I fell in love with the through the doors today.” on the event saying, “We are very excited city once more, and I highly encourage Dean and his staff have participated to share our galleries and theatre with the everyone to attend next year. It was a very in the event since it began four years ago community.” refreshing experience and a great way to and always appreciates the very positive Moving across the river, I stopped by take a break from exams.

By Carlos Hernandez The Saint Reporter

COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS

AQ Lecture Series: Dr. Jason Duncan, a professor of history, discussed the connection between the Catholic Church and the Democratic Party.

By Tom Carr The Saint Reporter On Tuesday, April 21, Dr. Jason Duncan, an Aquinas College history professor, gave a speech on Martin Van Buren and the politics of religion in the making of the Democratic Party. Professor Duncan also expressed the eighth president’s seeming affinity for the Catholic Church even though Van Buren himself was not Catholic. During the lecture, Dr. Duncan made sure to highlight the fact that Martin Van Buren played a much larger role in the creation of the Democratic Party than what most people may think.

The lecture on our eighth president was very informative and showed Van Buren as an underrated leader. For instance, Dr. Duncan said that people often portray Martin Van Buren as a fool or a dimwit, such as in the movie Amistad. However, as pointed out during the lecture, Van Buren studied law and held the position of vice president and then president of the United States; he was a shrewd politician. On top of that, his ideals and principles helped lay down the groundwork for the principles of the Democratic Party. Although Thomas Jefferson is generally credited for being one of the main moving forces behind the Democratic Party and the group’s

formation, Van Buren usually doesn’t seem to come up as much. According to Professor Duncan, Van Buren started working on a project in the 1820s that would become known as the Democratic Party, but it took until the early 1830s for the political party to be founded.

In terms of religion, Professor Duncan mentioned that Van Buren was not a very religious man. In fact, Van Buren did not affiliate with a particular Christian church; his Christian upbringing was a little ambiguous in terms of what denomination his family practiced. Yet, he encouraged Catholic migration and as Professor Duncan said, he also donated around fifty dollars to the construction of a particular Catholic Church (around $1,300 today).

Dr. Duncan’s presentation on Van Buren was very interesting and left me wanting to learn more about the subject. The lecture revealed much more information about the eighth president of the United States than most people tend to know. As Professor Duncan had mentioned early on in the lecture, Van Buren may seem boring or uninteresting on the surface, but from what was presented in the lecture, it is clear that without him the Democratic Party may either not exist or be a completely different party today.

What you need to know about the Riots in Baltimore Center for Diversity and Inclusion, David Martin, offers his insights on the matter, “being both black and Arabic, as well as a professional in this field of study, I have a personal connection to the issue.” Martin described the growing sense of frustration within communities where we see the increasing frequency of black people hurt and even killed by Police that, “leads to a distrust

in understanding the larger, systematic level of race relations that leads to outbreaks like those in Baltimore; not scrutinizing all The Cause: On April 13th, 2015, 25 police—though we are seeing trends of year-old Freddie Gray was arrested by abusing authority—but adjusting our policy Baltimore police. Sometime between the to more consistent laws and culture.” process of arrest and incarceration, Gray’s Martin furthered by offering the following spine was found to have been 80% severed, example, “After the world cup, there were and he soon after died due to complications extensive riots, cars being turned over, of his injury. The lack of building set on fire, etc. explanation for his injuries and we see that here in the while in police custody states all the time.” The has sparked an array of difference, as alluded by protests throughout the Martin is that, “the tone city of Baltimore. of these incidents in the The protests: The media are based on who demonstrations in is doing the burning and Baltimore began this flipping.” Martin furthered past Sunday, April 26th, that it is, “no surprise that immediately following the more reckless protests the funeral of Freddie are being sensationalized Gray. As we have seen in the media, because that’s by way of the media is what gets ratings, but it the riot-like nature of is imperative to consider the protests, resulting in all perspectives as well, looting, assault, and even and keep in mind who is death. Two MLB baseball reporting these stories.” games in Baltimore have What to take away: been postponed, and the In light of these protests, National Guard has since both peaceful and violent, been employed to the COURTESY BET.COM the question remains: how streets. #FreddieGray: “Our biggest enemy should not be the people who should be should we approach the A c c o r d i n g t o protecting us,” says Rev. Jamal Bryant to police forces in Baltimore.

Baltimore situation as WBALTV, 15 Baltimore people who will observe police officers have been injured, 144 vehicles between the community and the body that it from afar, in Grand Rapids, MI? To Martin, it have been torched, 15 buildings set ablaze, ought to be protecting them.” is fundamentally important that we are aware Martin stated several times that the ideal of where we get our information from, as and over 200 civilians have been arrested— These are the majority of images and news response to a matter like this would ideally be well as pursuing an effective understanding a peaceful one, and that is what we ought to and truth “As responsible people, I would stories we have seen over the weekend.

What we have not seen quite so apparently, strive for. However, Martin also implores us encourage everyone to maintain a healthy are the images of the peaceful protests to, “also bear in mind that state of frustration level of perspective and don’t be too quick being demonstrated by a 2,000-person that comes from feeling like you have no to cast judgment,” furthering, “get the facts, congregation who have become known as other options but to make a scene.” understand the larger issue at play. Everyone Solution: When asked about how a has opinions, and it is very easy for us to “charmingville.” From candlelight vigils and praise songs for the Gray family, to nation plagued by racial disparity and jump on Facebook and post something picket signs and chanting for social justice, systematic discrimination ought to handle insensitive.” Martin also affirmed that this group of demonstrators has not made the issue, Martin stated, we ought to, “engage in dialogue, it is an “Again, peaceful demonstrations are important conversation to have, but make many headlines.

Perspective: To better understand the ideal, and if we have any chance at reaching sure it is sensitive to all viewpoints, ultimately incident in Baltimore, Aquinas College’s any sort of substantial remedy for racial motivated by the better understanding of Student Engagement Coordinator for the injustices, we need to have a conversation what is really happening in our society.”

By John Sainz The Saint Reporter

News Editors Anna Musiyenko & Chucky Blackmore

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

prcgr.com Call: 616-456-6873 Text: 616-284-1545

Phone (616) 632-2975

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

opinion >>

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THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29, 2015

One last opinion

FROM THE CROWD

By Chuck Hyde The Staff Writer

APPLAUSE TO...

Girl Scout cookies, for sustaining two travelers stranded in the Upper Peninsula; CAVA, for organizing a successful Heartside Park clean sweep; “Full House”, for making a Netflix comeback; Res Life, for letting us dunk our RA’s last weekend; JK Rowling, for blessing us with another book; Panic! at the Disco, for releasing a new single last week; Aquinas graduating seniors, for making it through all four (or five) years.

HECKLES TO...

Rick Snyder, for being fickle about running for president; Grey’s Anatomy, for giving us another suprise ending to cry at; Adam Sandler, for still trying to be relevant by being racist; Wege, for not having star tots as often as we’d like; Perez Hilton, for making a joke about Bruce Jenner’s interview with Diane Sawyer; Dieseltec in Grandville, for confusing “good business practice” with blatant discrimination.

theSaint 2014-2015 E D I T O R I A L B O A R D

Culture Editor Creative Director

I have written for The Saint ever since my first year here at Aquinas. I remember going to the first writers’ meeting in September and having to literally sprint to my next commitment. This should have been the sign that I was going to be overcommitted for the next four years, but I don’t pick up on hints too easily.

Nonetheless, The Saint remained one of the few things that stuck with me for four years. I have written for this paper since the first chance I could get and have missed few issues since. I stayed with the paper during hard financial times, and I served as a Staff Writer for two years before finally accepting a position as the first Opinion Editor for The Saint in a decade or more. Even now that my wonderful successor Mackenzie (whose destined to be a much better editor than I was) has taken over, I have still written

Mayra Monroy Anna Musiyenko Chucky Blackmore Abbi Racine Emily Higham

Sports Editor Opinion Editor Managing Editor Adviser

Taylor Hodges Mackenzie Murphy Aaron Campbell Dr. Dan Brooks

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

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

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

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

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

>>write us a letter!

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

physical copies – AB, Room 20

Opinion Editor Mackenzie Murphy

articles for these last two issues.

I don’t think it’s ever really occurred to me to stop writing for the paper. I’m not a journalism, communications, or English student, but I still love writing about the things I love: music, theatre, news, and my own opinions. This experience helped me become who I am, and has prepared me in many ways for the endless papers and theses that I will have to write as I look into Ph.D. programs.

I think that The Saint is such a great piece of the Aquinas College culture. It’s been here longer than any of us, and it will be here for much longer still. I always try to convince people to write for the paper, even if they don’t have interest in journalism. It teaches you how to write, how to talk to people you’ve never met, and how to meet deadlines…although I’m not always the best at that last part myself.

we have at Aquinas, it’s so important to get out of the classroom and do something larger than yourself. My classes have taught me so much here, but I have learned life lessons and made life-long friends through my involvement here on campus.

Now that this chapter of my life is coming to close, I would just like to thank everyone here at The Saint. I may be counting down the days until I graduate (eleven as of this publication), but that doesn’t mean that I won’t miss it here. Thanks Mayra, Dr. Brooks, Abigale, and everyone else. I’ll see everyone later, and I’ll always make sure to pick up the newest copy of The Saint whenever I’m on campus.

No matter what someone is studying here, I think they should get involved. Whether it’s in The Saint , Student Senate, Programming Board, Knitting Club, or one of the many other opportunities

Confessions of a white guy

By John Sainz The Saint Reporter

Student loans, for slowly encroaching upon recent college grads;

Editor-in-Chief News Editors

4

Let’s talk about feminism. Let’s debunk the misconception that feminism is only applicable to women. Now fellas, I know it sounds like “feminine”, but don’t get too insecure about your masculinity just yet. Let’s define that big scary word the way Emma Watson did in her recent UN speech: “The belief that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities. It is the theory of the political, economic and social equality of the sexes.” That’s not so bad is it? Feminism is simply the belief in gender equality.

The feminine connotations of the word make men think women.

Many men hear about feminism and cringe, thinking all these women are man-haters out to get us and take over the world. If you’re really too insecure to say you support feminism, try pro-equality. Guys, if you don’t think women deserve the opportunities you do, you are not pro-equality, and that’s jacked up. Ladies, if you believe that women should dominate and that all men are worthless garbage, you are not a feminist. That’s the problem: when we start seeing groups, and stop seeing people, we enter extremely dangerous territory, plagued with discrimination, misconception, and bitter hearts.

In reality, the more applicable reason that women’s discrimination is so amplified today is this: women are oppressed. It really is that simple. Historically, the subtle, institutionalized inferiority of women instilled in our society

has been drastically underexposed and disturbingly neglected. There isn’t room enough on this page to talk about all the disturbing ways in which women are discriminated against globally, but even in the U.S., women are getting the short end of the stick. It may not seem like it at first glance—its not like the United States enslaves women on plantations or don’t have voting rights—but lets look at some facts: • It took 144 years for American women to gain voting rights • Women typically make $0.72 to every $1.00 a man makes • Tampons aren’t free • Maternal healthcare isn’t free • Currently, of the 535 members of the US congress, 432 are men (this is a record high of women serving) • Rape culture is a thing

When I walk home at night I don’t carry pepper spray. I never have to think, “Better be careful, I don’t want to get raped.” Men don’t tend to have this issue, but they do tend to be the perverted perpetrators.

But not all men are like that.

I’m not raping anybody. It’s not my problem, right? Wrong. If you’re a decent human, applause for you, have a cookie. I know it’s not your fault that these problems exist. But does this mean we ought to stand idly by and ignore it? Well, if I didn’t give a rip about equality, then I suppose I could mark “Not Applicable” and go about my life in good conscience. But that seems like a pretty selfish way to live; and my God is all about helping people. Voltaire tells us, “Every man is also guilty of

the good he did not do.” Though I shun Voltaire for not using gender-neutral pronouns, his words are applicable to us today, and I believe equality is a very good thing. And hey, maybe it’s just me, but I don’t want to fear for my sisters and friends, risking their lives walking home at night because they just happen to have lady parts. That makes it my problem. Fellas, that makes it our problem, too.

Let me make clear that I in no way claim to have the slightest substantial understanding of what its like to be a woman. Therefore, I find that it is not my place to pretend like I do, or speak on their behalf. If I were to guess, girls just want to have fun. Fun-da-mental human rights, that is. Though no man can accurately speak for a woman, we do have a role in solving this issue, and I doubt that any female women’s rights advocate wants sympathy. Rather, we ought to stand alongside our brothers and sisters as people, and support the movement in whatever capacity necessary. Personally, I recommend joining the HeForShe campaign.

I say this, not to guilt-trip anyone for being a dude, but to acknowledge and express what I believe is right. Equality is right. If this means I revoke my premium membership to the blonde-haired-blue eyed-whitecatholic-dude club, then so be it, but gender inequality cannot be ignored any longer. The first step in solving any problem is recognizing that there is one.

The head or the heart: love at first sight

By Natalie Jo Przybyla Staff Writer When I was an angsty teenager, I fooled myself into believing that not only did love at first sight not exist, but also that love itself did not exist. This was despite the countless romance movies I watched, the piles of romance books I had laying around my bedroom, and the many times I heard my dad tell the story of when he met my mom. Love was not real. I did not feel it and I never will feel it. Incredibly depressing, I know, but it was part of my identity for three stupid years of my life.

I first fell in love— not love at first sight— at the age of 15. And when I finally had the chance to feel it, fall into it, and fall out of it, I believed in it. And although I have since lost it, I now understand. Love, when I was younger, had a different face— an impossible face. I did not think it was possible to find that one

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

person. I thought there was only one person for everyone, and when that person was gone, they were gone forever. Love can never come back.

But for me, it did.

The third time I fell in love, it happened right away. I met this person and I just knew. They felt it too. It was an epiphany. Love at first sight is something that one has to feel to believe. It isn’t just an attraction. It isn’t just a likeness or a modest connection. One conversation and you feel lost in them, and you keep feeling it.

I got curious. I spent a few days asking my peers if they believe that love at first sight is true. My results were expected.

The truth is, a lot of people are more head and less heart. They think situations through, analyze their options, they guide themselves to decide to fall in love. I, obviously, used to be even more anal about love, but now I am the other extreme. Not many let passion and intuition lead them through life. It took me a while to do so, but I did it.

Phone (616) 632-2975

My father and my mother met when he was going through a divorce and still technically married.

He was in no way ready for another relationship of any kind. Here are things one must understand: my dad is a very rough man. He looks like Clint Eastwood and has tendencies to act like he belongs in an old western film. A tough guy, a real hard-ass who openly owns and uses a machete, fell in love with my mother when she walked through the door and shortly after, into his arms. They were engaged three months later. This year will make it 29 years of marriage.

So it can happen. And I know it seems far-fetched and reckless, but if more people became more heart and less head, it might help a few angsty teenagers to have a little hope.

I know I could have used it when I started listening to My Chemical Romance and Taking Back Sunday and dressing like Avril Lavigne.

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

culture

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THE SAINT |WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29, 2015

Theatre: Anastasia stage musical set to debut world premiere

Television: Everybody Loves Raymond child star commits suicide

Literature: Reese Witherspoon to voice Harper Lee’s “Go Set a Watchman”

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Yes, you read correctly dear reader; a stage musical version of the 1997 20th Century Fox film will FINALLY be performed onstage. This opportunity is “Once Upon a December”, and is being performed in Hartford, Connecticut.

Hopefully the story based off of the Romanov’s will trickle its way to Grand Rapids...

Every nineties kids fondly remembers the beloved television comedy ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’.

While visiting family in Texas, ‘Raymond’ actor Sawyer Sweeden, 19, shot himself on the front porch. Sweeden played one of the twin sons featured on the show.

Harper Lee’s “Go Set a Watchman”, the follow-up story to the iconic novel “To Kill A Mockingbird”, is set to be released July 14.

Publisher HarperCollins released a statement on Thursday, April 23 that actress Reese Witherspoon will narrate the audiobook version of the novel.

The highly-anticipated reveal of The Joker’s new look, portrayed by Oscar winner and musician Jared Leto, was recently released. Leto, respected as a methodical actor, looks terrifying covered in Joker-inspired tats and sporting silver grills on this teeth.

>> JARED LETO

COURTESY WARNER BROS/ DC COMICS

Not a girl, not yet a woman abigale racine | culture editor Bruce Jenner, former Olympian and the world’s most famous stepdad, recently announced in an interview with Diane Sawyer, “for all intents and purposes, I am a woman.”

This announcement should come as no surprise to anyone who keeps up with the Kardashians. Rumors of the transition and pictures of Jenner in a dress have been circling in tabloids and clogging The Internet for months. Yet, the world is stunned and the story can be found nearly on every single news source- even on ones more relevant and hard-hitting than E! News.

Granted the association with the Kardashian family might have something to do with the media’s infatuation. However, I believe that the uproar just demonstrates how unaccepting and mallicious society can be of those who face struggles with their gender identity. I think it’s fair to say that Jenner’s coming-out is one unlike any other.

Back when he won as an American Olympian during the Cold War, Jenner became the posterboy-epitome of success.

Granted, in recent years, Jenner has been set up for public ridicule because of being on a reality television show, but past accomplishments cannot be overlooked.

Anyway, never on the public scene has a such a male figure; an Olympian; a pillar of American pride, revealed that these accomplishments have been a way of running away from her true self and a method of avoiding internal problems. One secret never revealed on the popular reality series Keeping Up With The Kardashians in the entire decade in its running is Jenner’s true selfidentity.

Sure, other celebrities have spoken up about tough subjects such as HIV-AIDS, but transgender issues are too often tossed to the side and disregarded by society. Jenner is bringing to light a very misunderstood population and I can only hope that this coming-out will bring only good attention to these minorites and educate those unfamilar.

Luckily, Jenner is wealthy enough to pay for the costly surgeries it takes to fully become the woman she felt she has always meant to be. We should consider that there are many people in this world that do not have access to the same resources or the financial means that Jenner possesses and yet they face similar conflicts.

During the Friday, April 25 interview with Sawyer, Jenner reveals one of her deepest wishes- to be able to wear nail polish long enough for it to chip, implying that she has always removed it before stepping outside the house. Society harshly critizes those who identity themselves as trans, forcing people to disguise themselves, and I have witnessed this prejudice and hatred for myself.

One of my oldest and dearest friends is transgender. It was our sophomore year of high school when Lillian finally embraced her true self. It was a defying moment when she wore a dress to the Homecoming dance and wore nail polish outside the house.

Living in our consideratly-conservative small town, she faced many great adversities. With these adversities, we learned what hate meant at a very young age. Lillian dealt with prejudice on a daily basis not only from our peers but from those in positions of authority as well.

On more than one occassion her life was threatened by those who disagreed with her lifestyle and beliefs. What most don’t realize is that it is not easy to claim identity as a transgender and the transition is not taken lightly by any means.

Starting as a sophomore, Lillian underwent estrogen treatments and intenselythrough psychological evaluations. Lillian started her full-transition the spring we had graduated from high school, recieving her breasts the day before our graduation.

Later that year, after completing the transition, she had to re-learn how to walk.

Despite it being difficult, Lillian has no regrets. Although she does often joke that she misses the socially-acceptable ability to pee outdoors.

She firmly believes that it was God’s plan for her to transition and she has evolved personally and spiritually since she became a woman. I value our friendship highly and I also value the lessons I had learned, despite my inability to relate. I encourage those who are reading this to think of their own path of self-discovery, be considerate of those whose path is a little different, and to keep your .minds and hearts open.

The Sampler Launch 2015 celebrates student talent

By Joey Frendo The Saint Reporter In a culmination of the seminal creative works of the Aquinas College student body, it was hard to tell if the celebration that was the Sampler Launch for 2015 was a coming or going of the tide.

Serving equally as a remembrance and jumping-off point, the event seemed both happy and sad, as seniors presented their crowning literary and artistic achievements to an attentive audience.

Underclassmen shined bright as well, both groups giving meter, story, and vision to their lives up to that point, simultaneously giving optimism for their collective creative futures while recognizing undoubted hard work on their respective crafts over the past years.

Underscoring deft skill and delicate, nurturing direction from Aquinas faculty, the event held high a certain pride, undoubtedly deserved; pride on the part of students, honored to share their work, pride on the part of the faculty, to show off their pupil’s achievements, and pride on the part of audience, eager and glad to have soaked in the passion of so many talented people.

Senior Rachael Steil, who eloquently set the stage for speaker and performing alike, was quick to point out the unwavering work and support of many faculty members, without which The Sampler would

not be possible, including Professor Pamela Dail Whiting, Professor Gary Eberle, Professor Dana Freeman, Dr. Brent Chesley, Dr. Gretchen Rumo hr-Vo s kuil, Dr. Yashowanto Ghosh, Dr. Michele DeRose, Professor Vicki McMillian and countless others who helped make this year ’s launch possible.

Kicked off by a wonderful reading of his own poetry, COURTESY JOHN SAINZ/ THE SAINT this year ’s final judge for Life in poetry: Aquinas students from all backgrounds had writings featured in the famed booklet. the Academy of American Poets University and “First Name Cassandra, Middle erous donation to make the funding College Poetry Prize Dennis Hin- Name Remembrance” and honor- of The Sampler possible, capping off richsen undoubtedly showcased able mention to Benjamin Stoner ’s what was a wonderful night filled skill and tact abundant in his poem “Bluebird” (whose artwork with warm embraces and kind works, entitled “Electrocution: also graced the cover) both treated words for those so bold as to share A Partial History,” “Farm House audiences to powerful readings of their artistic visions with the cam(Burning Down),” and “Minotaur.” their selected works. Each writer pus. Hopeful for the future while Hinirichsen, a prize winning poet in attendance was also able to read honoring the past, those in attenhimself who has released a number a work from The Sampler, again dance would most certainly agree: of chapbooks, spoke highly of this highlighting the breadth and depth a special night was had by all. year ’s winners, as first place win- of talent on hand.

Dr. Anthony and Linda Foster ner Cassandra Anouthay’s poem were also recognized for their gen-

Artist Spotlight:

Alabama Shakes

Sound & Color: Soul can be found on the latest release.

By Mariah Cowsert The Saint Reporter Artist: Alabama Shakes Genre: Rock-blues Current Album: Sound & Color Comparisons: The Black Keys, My Morning Jacket, Jack White, Dr. Dog, and Drive By Truckers Popular Tracks: “Gimme All Your Love”, “Always Al- r i g h t ” , “Future People”, and “Hold On” Since their television debut in 2012 on late night show Conan, Alabama Shakes has expanded the dynamics of modern rock-blues and made a point to follow the path they choose for their music and not conform to please the masses.

Brittany Howard, guitarist and lead vocalist, said in an interview with the New York Times that she “just wanted to be in a group, to be a part of something that’s bigger than me.”

“That’s what I always wanted,” she added. “And now we’ve got it, this precious little thing that is ours. And we’ve got to be careful with it. We have to cherish it. It’s our passion”.

Their newest album Sound & Color, released on April 21, is more sophisticated and is even markedly trippier than their debut album, Boys and Girls. Their slower, more psychedelic songs entitled “Gemini” and “Dunes” are layered with falsetto vocals, vibraphones, and dimension. Waiting three years to release a new album may have cost Alabama Shakes a few impatient fans but the music that came out of that time is fully worth the Culture Editor Abbi Racine

COURTESY MTV

wait.

In their one of their newest songs, “Guess Who”, Howards sings, “Why is everything so complicated? Why is everyone so infatuated.” Alabama Shakes exhibits relatable lyrics for their listeners and enable us to appreciate the passion in which Howard expresses them.

One of their hit songs “Hold On”, stemmed from an on-stage improvisation of a riff Howard started playing and making lyrics as she went along.

Alabama Shakes had three Grammy nominations in 2013 following their album Boys & Girls and have since debuted two of their singles, “Don’t Wanna Fight” and “Gimme All Your Love”, from Sound & Color on Saturday Night Live in early March. Their performance is chill-inducing and is arguably one of the best SNL has had in years.

Howard performs with raw integrity of emotion and expressive movement that makes her bouncy curls fall and conform to the beat of the song. Experience the depths of Alabama Shakes’ passionate southern rock-blues for yourself by attending one of their shows this summer or streaming their newest album Sound & Color on Spotify, vinyl, or however your ear pleases.

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

I Hate Hamlet brings laughter (and tights) to AQ Theatre

COURTESY OF ANDRIS VISOCKIS PHOTOGRAPHY

Get thee to a nunnery: The virtuous Deirdre swoons over her own Hamlet.

By Mariah Cowsert nior Veronica Bustoz played LilThe Saint Reporter lian Troy with wit and sharp huSword fights, audience inter- mor that gave the German talent action, and summoning spirits to agent heartfelt charm and made aid in the preparation for Shake- the audience move forward in speare in the park made I Hate the chairs with her raunchy jokes Hamlet an absolute hit. about her affair with Barrymore.

There is a bond between AnThe costumes stayed true to drew Rally and the ghost of John the Elizabethan culture and also Barrymore, the famed Hamlet reflected the time period of New that inhabits Deirdre and Andy’s York in the nineties. The set of New York apartment even though was also beautifully constructed Andy resists to play Hamlet and and is the tallest box set Aquinas leave his shallow LA dreams be- has built for the stage to date. hind.

The hard working actors, talented Sophomore Ben Avery as An- director Kyle Westmaas, and undrew Rally, and junior Connor tiring production team shined in Manion as John Barrymore, made every aspect of the show to make the onstage chemistry even stron- it a special comedy that the audiger due to their real life friend- ence responded to with laughter ship outside the theatre realm. and love.

First year student Justina Oullette Between acts, I was excited perfectly encompassed the sassy to see the rest of the show which real estate broker, Felicia Dantine. started with Barrymore’s charmShe captured the audience with ing delivery of a rose to a member her well-delivered, humorous of the audience. middle-school crush on Andrew, I cried at the heartfelt moand the over-the-top seance she ments between Barrymore and used to help summon Barrymore.

Andrew and had tears from laughBrock Gabbert, a first year, ing so hard at the humor that is delivered a fun yet well-estab- weaved throughout the show. It lished performance of an LA tele- was a fun production as Aquinas’ vision producer with ego inflated last show of the season and made charm and money in his eyes as me excited for the next AQ TheGary Peter Lefkowitz. Junior Sar- atre season. ah Osborne as Deirdre showed the To find out which shows you audience her spunk yet virtuous can be apart of or expect to see nature and her desire to be a part next season, visit the AQ Theatre of Shakespeare’s romantic world Facebook page. even with Hamlet’s tragedy. Se-

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6

CULTURE

THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29, 2015

Get Hard or get out

COURTESY WARNER BROS STUDIOS

Get lost: Yet another incredibly insensitive Will Ferrell flick. Save your money.

By Kati Doering The Saint Reporter In a world where revolutionists are rebelling against social norms and racism, Will Ferrell and Kevin Hart are right there to take well-deserved progress back a few steps in their recently-released film Get Hard.

In this racial, homophobically-driven comedy, Ferrell plays a Wall Street millionaire that is caught committing some heinous crime within the workplace, specifically fraud. Hart acts as a respectable, middle-class businessman that Ferrell turns toward for guidance in surviving prison.

The thing is Ferrell thinks Hart has experience with the prison system because he’s, well... black.

Hart doesn’t want to admit it though because Ferrell is paying him thirty-thousand dollars, which obviously outweighs the racial stereotype.

He then introduces the imbecilic Ferrell to a street-wise gang that will teach him to harden up. Hart eventually gives up on training Ferrell to survive and takes him to a gay club where Ferrell will learn

how to perform sexual acts for fellow prisoners, which is a delicate and rather insensitive rape joke.

It was really difficult to tell what was a joke and what wasn’t.

Not even ten minutes into the movie, the audience had to witness Ferrell’s awkward nakedness twice, which is not really funny at all. And let’s not forgot about his hot, money-hungry girlfriend that fits perfectly into the misogynistic mold.

According to Forbes, Get Hard had a solid start; opening weekend raked in almost $13 million.

However, sales are dropping rapidly. And it’s no wonder why.

When was the last time Ferrell actually had a decent movie?

The only one that really sticks out in my mind is The Other Guys, which premiered in 2010.

Why are Ferrell’s adult-oriented movies turning sour? It seems to be that movie-goers are getting tired of the same old routine.We are sick of grubby and hairy Ferrell using his incompetence to spark some laughter.

Of course, it’s normal for him to be offensive in his comedy, but Get Hard pushes the breaking point,

especially considering the United States is still sensitive after the murders of Mike Brown, Eric Garner, and so many others.

So, if you’re really interested in seeing this movie, I’d recommend seeing another boxoffice smash like Furious 7 and then sneak in afterward.

This movie isn’t worth the money and definitely not worth telling your friends about.

A summer of music: Where to find the hottest shows this summer

COURTESY MICHIGAN DAILY

Electric feel: Soak up the sun and catch a show this summer solstice.

By Joey Frendo The Saint Reporter Music in Michigan will be alive kicking again this summer, with some great concerts coming to the Mitten during the warm weather months.

A trio of country music heavyweights will undoubtedly bring with them jams to help ring in the summer, with Keith Urban, Tim McGraw, and Jason Aldean touching ground north of the Mason-Dixon Line. Urban and McGraw will be making their way to Soaring Eagle Casino in Mt. Pleasant for shows on June 25 and July 26, respectively, while Alden will be playing at the Van Andel on May 7 with support from Cole Swindell and Tyler Farr.

Other industry stars making appearances in Michigan this summer come by the way of the annual Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens.

Acts including Gary Clark Jr. on June 24, Doobie Brothers on July 5, Mat Kearney on July 6, Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo on July 13, The New Pornographers with Thao & the Get Down Stay Down on July 15, and Brandi Carlile

with special guest Anderson East on July 30, as well as countless other great acts, are scheduled to perform for the ever-growing Grand Rapids staple that runs into the first week of September.

Equally impressive is the docket of shows that local venues have staked out for the summer. The Pyramid Scheme is constantly welcoming great bands to west Michigan, and this summer is no different, as acts like Pokey LaFarge (May 14), Temples ( June 2), and Delta Spirit ( July 29) highlight the summer calendar for one of the Midwest’s best venues.

The Intersection, equally as important and prominent in the regional music scene, boasts a great line-up of their own, as Tyler the Creator (May 10), Eli Young Band ( June 5, Moon Hooch ( June 21), and Josh Garrels ( July 24) are the heavyweight names to watch here.

Another underappreciated but emerging place to soak in the sun while enjoying the songs of summer is the state’s burgeoning music festival circuit. Happening all around Michigan and all season long, don’t forget to support not only great, well-known events like Common Ground Music FesCulture Editor Abigale Racine

tival in Lansing and Electric Forest in Rothbury, but lesser-known destinations including Hoxeyville Music Festival in Wellston, Dunesville Music Festival in Interlochen, Holler Fest in Brooklyn, and Earthwork Harvest Gathering in Lake City, where Michigan music is highlighted and is sure not to disappoint.

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

Phone (616) 632-2975

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint

sports

page

NFL Draft: Who’s going where?

Anthony Davis: A superstar in the making

Calgary Flames: Best fans in the World

In Barry Wilner ’s latest 2015 NFL mock draft selections for The Washington Post, he has quarterback Jameis Winston going to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, wide receiver Amari Cooper going to the Chicago Bears, and defensive tackle Eddie Goldman going to the Detroit Lions.

Davis and the New Orleans Pelicans are expected to negotiate on a new contract that could pay Davis up 140 million dollars over the next five years. Davis averaged 30 points and 10 rebounds in his first four NBA playoff games.

Flames fans were excited the other night when their team beat the Vancouver Canucks 7-4. With the win, the Flames move onto the next round. After the game, fans flooded the streets and began celebrating their team’s huge accomplishment.

AQ Fishing: Team One

mitch ringer |the saint reporter

Warm weather, birds chirping, and relaxing days on the lake. That’s right Aquinas, Summer time in West Michigan is fast approaching. The state of Michigan has more than 11,000 inland lakes, and 36,000 miles of streams. This is directly correlated with one of the most popular leisure activities in the state: fishing.

There are a ton of licensed sport fishermen in our great state, including some of our fellow students here at Aquinas. But what about our fishers that have a bit of a competitive side? If you enjoy fishing for fun, but want the chance to say, “na na na boo boo, I’m better than you,” I have found your answer.

Aquinas student, Jack VanWieren, loves fishing; I mean LOVES it. He spends his free time in the summer at either Reeds or Dean Lake. He’s out there just loving life, catching some fish, and throwing them back. Here’s the thing with Jack though: he also loves competing and winning. He is a junior on the Aquinas Men’s lax team, a former high school football tight end, and an avid weightlifter.

On top of his athletics, VanWieren has been fishing for most of his young life.

He has always wanted to fish at the collegiate level, so this past fall he decided to try and cast-off the first club fishing team here at Aquinas.

“I have always had a passion for fishing, and saw this as a great opportunity to start fishing at the collegiate level,” said VanWieren with a grin. “I was surprised that Aquinas didn’t have a fishing team and brought it upon myself to make it happen.”

As far as procedures go, Jack is well on his way to making this club “oFISHial”. He already has the club’s constitution drafted, and also has sought tips and insight from collegiate fishing coaches, including the head of GVSU’s program.

“As of right now I am waiting for Campus Life to give us the official okay,” said VanWieren. The formalities are almost finished, now it’s time for Jack to get into the nitty-gritty of finalizing his club team.

VanWieren has put a lot of work into planning this team. He has so far recruited three other students to join him on team one of AQ fishing. With his three new teammates at his side, Jack will be able to enter his team into the Michigan College Bass Circuit (MCBC). The MCBC is currently composed of ten colleges and universities in the state of Michigan, and one in Ohio. Some notable teams include: MSU, WMU, CMU, and Lake Superior State.

VanWieren’s team currently has the league minimum of team members needed to compete (four). In order to compete, participants must be registered full time students and a dues paying members of the MCBC. Teams must also provide their own two-person boats. Boats must meet all MCBC codes and requirements.

The AQ fishing team is planning to compete in several MCBC tournaments this Summer, with the first being on June 6 at the beautiful Gun Lake. The Saints will be up to the challenge in their inaugural year, facing top notch competition.

Last season, the Spartans of Michigan State University took home the Team of the Year award with a whopper of a summer, reeling in 87 points. The Western Michigan Broncos came in a close second with a respectable 73 points.

Founding father and president of the new AQ fishing club, Jack VanWieren, is excited for what the future has in store for he and his team. They are close to receiving official recognition as a club sport by the college, and are almost fully prepared to compete in the first MCBC tournament of the Summer. They are in the grassroots stage of their program, but rapid growth is surely imminent. It’s a little late in process to add members to the roster, but VanWieren, is still open to the possibility.

“It is tough to have anyone join because you need to provide your own boat in order to do so.” Though, with that being the case, Jack would not turn down a couple of experienced fishermen that already have a boat and who are eager to compete.

If you find yourself interested in joining the Aquinas College’s inaugural MCBC fishing team or have any questions, you may contact Jack VanWieren himself at jjv002@aquinas.edu. You can also find more information, view tournament dates, locations, and results at http:// www.michigancollegebassfishing.com/.

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THE SAINT | WEDNESDAY, APRIL29, 2015

As the season draws to a close, the Aquinas Softball team continues to fight. They may not have their ideal winloss record, but they have certainly put in outstanding effort and made lasting memories through-

out the season.

After speaking with the team, most of them noted that they are hoping for more wins next season. Senior Chelsea McWain commented, “I hope that the team is able to continue to hit the ball well next year. When one member of AQSB [Aquinas Softball] hits, we all hit.

I also hope that they can keep the family unit strong, because that is essential for this group of [women].”

Overall, the team is made up of a great group of women who get along well and have one another’s back. It is important for them to keep up the teamwork to produce wins.

“When we show up and play as a team, we can beat anyone or at least come close to it. We’ve proven that to ourselves again and

again, but we need the whole team to win,” said sophomore Ann Hardin. It sure looks like teamwork is what it takes for these ladies to make the magic happen.

In fact, the magic happened quite recently. On April 18, the Saints knocked out a tough win against the Davenport Panthers.

After a 0-6 loss in the first game of the doubleheader, the Saints were prepared to fight back.

The game was tied at 2-2 at the top of the seventh inning when Davenport threatened a run, but could not produce. In the bottom half, with junior Lexi Popma on third, sophomore Ellie Adams stepped up to the plate. Adams proceeded to hit a laser through the infield to score Popma, giving the Saints a win. Popma ended the day 3-3.

Thanks to Adams and Popma, junior pitcher Caitlyn Hensel gained a win for the books. This made her 6-5 on the season, finishing Saturday with only two earned runs allowed. Last week, Hensel was awarded the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC) Pitcher of the Week. She had gained three wins in her three appearances for the week. A huge congratulations to Hensel!

Throughout a season, it is not necessarily the record that matters, but rather the effort given and the memories made. The Aquinas Softball team has certainly accomplished both of these aspects, making for a wonderful 2015 season.

AQ Baseball: Battling Adversity

COURTESY HALEY JACOB

Pearly Whites: Haley Jacob is all smiles after having an outstanding career at Aquinas College.

By John Sainz The Saint Reporter “Positive.”

“Driven.”

“Goaloriented.” These are just a few of the words used by members of the AQ Women’s Lacrosse squad to describe senior midfielder, Haley Jacob.

Coming to us four years ago from Rocky River, Ohio, Jacob enrolled at Aquinas in the Fall of 2011. Since then, she has committed to pursuing her degree in Athletic Training with an emphasis in Group Exercise Leadership.

Sporting jersey number 10, Jacob has spent the last four lacrosse seasons in maroon and white for the AQ Saints, raking in nine goals and four assists this year alone. When asked about Jacob, sophomore Kendall Carr stated, “She’s just such a compassionate teammate,” going on to say, “she really knows how to motivate people.”

Jacob recalls her favorite memories on the lacrosse team to be the Spring Break trips to kick off the season, stating, “Nobody really knows each other quite yet, so it’s a great bonding experience where our chemistry as a unit is built.” The squad most recently spent their spring break in Atlanta, GA, traveling to Tennessee and South Carolina for scrimmages as well.

Jacob aspires to be a professional athletic trainer, focusing on clinical rehabilitation, “Being an athlete myself, I know

With only four regular season games left, the men’s squad, led by coach Doug Greenslate, has high hopes of advancing to the conference tournament. The Saints have an overall record of 17-22 for the season, with a WHAC record of 1115, which ranks them seventh overall in the conference.

The men’s team consists of thirty-four players and has eight seniors this year. Senior, Brendan Penny, who has had a great baseball career as a Saint, has confidence in his team’s ability.

“In my final season, I want our team to play well in the last two weeks, so we can make the tournament and make a run at a conference championship,” Penny stated.

Being apart of the squad has been a great experience for sophomore Mike Priest, who has stepped up to be a great asset to the crew this season.

“The guys are just so great on the team. I love coming to the field everyday and playing for my good friends. The team just has great chemistry,” said Priest.

Unfortunately, injuries have been a problem for some of the men this season.

“Our team has battled through injuries and tough times, so we haven’t lived up to the expectations, but the season has been good Sports Editor Taylor Hodges

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

how disastrous it can be to get injured, and that inspires me to be the best trainer I can be.” Regardless of where she ends up in a career, Jacob continued to say, “I want to help people.”

While she may be hanging up her cleats for the last time, Haley Jacob will not be leaving Aquinas just yet, as she plans to return for one more semester at AQ in the fall. In fact, she will likely remain in the Grand Rapids area for some time, as she alluded by saying, “I see myself staying here in Michigan, I’ve built a real foundation and network here, and I love Grand Rapids.”

When inquired about what sort of advice she would give to her younger teammates and those to come, Jacob stated, “I would encourage them not to stress over the little things, and that you really do miss 100% of the shots you don’t take, so don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone.”

Whatever Jacob’s future has in store, we can rest assured that she will be joining her fellow Saints at AQ for at least one more semester before graduating in December. Until then, Jacob can be found prepping for wedding season at her job with Martha’s Catering, giving tours as an ambassador, working out, Zumba dancing, filling out graduate school applications, and of course, catching the latest episode of Scandal.

Chase For The Cup

Marksmen: Junior Matt Krzykwa eyes the ball as he throws a near-flawless pitch. for the most part,” said Priest.

One of these injures to strike was to junior Casey Wila. Wila was off to a great start this season, achieving the single season record for the most triples. However, in a game against Davenport, he went to slide into second base and fractured his ankle, as well as tearing his deltoid ligament. Wila missed out on his freshman season due to an ACL injury, so having this occur was a disappointment for him.

“I just really miss playing ball and being around the guys. My injury has taken away both those things and it’s just tough. I was finally starting to play well and the team seemed to be picking up steam. It was an unfortunate occurrence but that’s life. I’ll be a cheerleader the rest of the year and try to help the boys the best I can,” said Wila.

The men will wrap up their last two home games on April 29 and 30 vs. the Indiana Tech Warriors.

They hope to end their last regular season games on a high note. The WHAC Conference tournament will take place at Siena Heights between May 4-7. Six of the ten teams will advance onto the tournament play. The Saints goal is to be one of those lucky teams that will fight for a chance to be this year ’s 2015 WHAC Conference Champs.

The Aquinas Women’s Tennis team had a season to remember. In the WHAC tournament, the Saints sweeped Lawrence Tech before having a hard battle against Davenport University.

The Saints would eventually fall 3-5 against Davenport. This puts their overall record to 17-11.

A journey from start to finish

COURTESY ANDRIS VISOCKIS

By Crysta Paganelli The Saint Reporter

>> WOMEN’S TENNIS

Athlete Spotlight: Haley Jacob

AQ Softball: Memories Made

By Zoe Harmon Staff Writer

WHAT TO WATCH

By Charlie Crowley The Saint Reporter Ah, April. A time to reflect on a coldhard winter, break out the shorts and flip flops for summer, and put on your favorite sweater – hockey sweater, that is. The National Hockey League’s Stanley Cup Playoffs are in full swing currently and the electricity that fills arenas day after day can be felt from Winnipeg to Washington.

The Stanley Cup Playoffs are a test for every team that enters it: 16 teams enter, and only one can emerge victorious for a chance to lift the Stanley Cup. This year’s race for the Cup features fresh faces and seasoned vets in terms of teams. Most notably, the Detroit Red Wings start off their quest against the Tampa Bay Lightning in round one of the Eastern Conference.

The Eastern Conference, besides featuring the Wings – who have made the playoffs for an astounding twenty-four years straight – also feature other usual suspects such as the Montreal Canadiens, the Pittsburgh Penguins, and the New York Rangers. Teams like the New York Islanders, Ottawa Senators, and Washington Capitals return to the playoffs, boasting such players as John Tavares, Erik Karlsson, and Alexander Ovechkin.

Although the seeds mean something in terms of who they play in the first round, the East is certainly up for grabs with tight series between the Capitals and Islanders, and the Red Wings and Lightning. Montreal has all eyes on them as always, as many believe they have the best chance of the five Canadian teams in the playoffs to

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win the Stanley Cup. The last time a Canadian team won the Cup was in 1993, by the aforementioned Canadiens.

On the other side of the spectrum, the Western Conference, and its rough and tumble style of hockey, will prove a test for the eight teams vying for the Cup. The Anaheim Ducks have already swept their opponent, the “new” Winnipeg Jets, who made the playoffs for the first time since they returned to Winnipeg.. Aside from the quack attack, the Chicago Blackhawks, St. Louis Blues, and the Minnesota Wild all return to the playoffs from last year. The Calgary Flames, Vancouver Canucks, and Nashville Predators put their name back in the hat as well. Last year’s champion, the Los Angeles Kings, did not qualify for the playoffs this year, and the President’s Trophy champs Boston Bruins did not make the cut as well.

Every series this year has remained tight, but distance is starting to be made.

At the time of this article being finished and sent out, Montreal is up on Ottawa 3-1, the New York Rangers are up 3-1 on Pittsburgh, Chicago up two games on Nashville, Calgary up two on Vancouver, and Anaheim sweeping Winnipeg. Both conferences have a series knotted at two, and Washington is up 3-2 on the Islanders.

As the days get warmer, the quest for the Cup will heat up as well. The season may last until June, but every player still in the hunt does not care about time. All they want is to lift the beautiful silver chalice that waits at the end of the road.

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SPORTS

THE SAINT |WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29, 2015

Sports Editor Taylor Hodges

E-mail saint.editors@aquinas.edu

Phone (616) 632-2975

Website www.aquinas.edu/thesaint