The Hofstra
HEMPSTEAD, NY VOL. 79
Issue 24
Chronicle
THURSDAY May 1, 2014
KEEPING THE HOFSTRA COMMUNITY INFORMED SINCE 1935
Town Hall Talk
By Lauren del Valle assistant news editor
One Hofstra senior held the floor for upward of 35 minutes while students and faculty were wall-to-wall at the annual Town Hall Meeting on Wednesday. Dan Lewitt, a senior accounting major, presented a doublesided piece of loose leaf listing proposals for improvement. Having increased his role as a student leader in his final year, Lewitt felt this was the best forum for his suggestions. “As [seniors] it is our duty to be able to lay the road for the people behind us to try to make the University better,” said Lewitt. Panelists included President Stuart Rabinowitz and Joseph Barkwill, vice president of Facilities and Operations. Sandra Johnson, vice president of Student Affairs, and Public Safety Director Karen O’Callaghan also represented the administration. Student Government Association President Andrea Strandowicz and Public Relations Chair William Finnegan rounded out the panel of six. Commuter parking on the academic side of campus was among the hot-button issues. Sophomore accounting major Leah Sax expressed her concern with the lack of parking in close proximity to classrooms. Vice President Barkwill clarified that there is ample parking on campus; much of it, however, is on the south side. Shuttle services run throughout campus, assured Barkwill. Rabinowitz lamented the costliness of a vertical parking structure, breaking the expense down to $25,000 per parking space in such a structure. Lewitt proposed the implementation of two common hours per week, moved to Tuesdays and Thursdays in
order to increase student activity involvement. “I feel Hofstra becomes a place people go to. I think we need to make it a destination. Where they want to stay at and become more involved in, because when we get everyone involved, that’s when we’ll start to be able to make things really happen here. And I think we don’t really have that right now out of a lot of our student body,” Lewitt said. While agreeing with the need for an additional activity period, administrators said that scheduling issues and classroom availability currently prevent an additional study block Monday through Thursday. The Hofstra community’s aversion to Friday classes aroused laughter in the room as Rabinowitz joked that no one would show up to a Friday common hour activity. Newly appointed Career Center Executive Director Gary Miller spoke of future academic initiatives to offer credit for resume and cover letter courses. Miller also noted the elimination of preliminary criteria that previously stood between students and the Pride-CMS job-inquiry software. Much to the visible chagrin of the panel, Lewitt returned to a long-debated issue, suggesting a free-market approach to food services on campus in order to drive down prices. As per usual, Rabinowitz noted the five-year contractual agreement with Lackmann and promised to reevaluate the situation in three years come expiration time. Barkwill directly addressed Lewitt, explaining that such a competitive system would not necessarily benefit the University. They attributed the inflated prices to the incorporation of employee benefits and salary expenses into unit costs. Lewitt drew particular attention
Photo by Chris Owens Senior Dan Lewitt addressed the administrative panel for 35 minutes at the Annual Town Hall Meeting on Wednesday.
“I feel Hofstra becomes a place people go to. I think we need to make it a destination..” to the convoluted semantics muddling SGA legislation that currently governs bureaucratic processes, by which clubs must abide. “I think a lot of the administrators do take proactive steps to make things better. I
just think the turn around time on some of these things can be slightly slow,” Lewitt said. The newly elected SGA President Mark Atkinson assured Lewitt that the club packet defining such processes is to be done before the beginning of next
semester. “To be honest with you I’m just looking at what doesn’t work, what sort of works, and what we can make better,” said Atkinson. “A lot of asking people questions about how has it always been and why has it always been like that.”
A 2 • May 1, 2014
NEWS
The Chronicle
Fire alarms rack up student summons By Shannon Nia Alomar staff writer
In the 15 cases in which evacuation was not adhered to, a total of 72 summonses were issued to students, according to Karen O’Callaghan, Director of Public Safety. Summonses are issued when students fail to evacuate their rooms during an activated fire alarm, because Public Safety can be subjected to fines from the Fire Marshall’s office. “Students must understand that these are not false alarms, but actually activations not usually because of fire,” O’Callaghan said. “I can’t think of a reason why a student would ignore a fire alarm, but in many cases, students stated they were sleeping and didn’t want to get up,” O’Callaghan said. Public Safety has responded to 78 fire alarms this semester. Fire activations are frequently caused by popcorn, excessive shower
steam and hair products. But that has not stopped students from staying in their rooms. Bryan Kugler, junior journalism major, received a summons for exiting his building too late after an alarm went off due to his noise-cancelling headphones. He expressed his understanding of the Res Life and Public Safety rule, but he believes if residents leave their buildings they should not be issued a fine, even if it is not in the respective timeframe. Kugler noted that not all fire alarms are, in his view, worth the evacuation. “Most of the times it’s because some girl doesn’t know how to use her blow dryer or hair straightener or kids are just smoking in their rooms, which is why I feel the alarms should be made with less
sensitivity,” Kugler said. Another student who believes the alarms are not a good enough reason for leaving her building in the middle of the night is junior film and television major, Molly Holtzinger. “I don’t think any of the alarms are worth exiting for. They go off so frequently that it can’t even be
evacuations are the result of students’ accidently setting off the sensitive fire alarms and should be handled in a more efficient manner so that students can [get] back into the buildings as soon as possible. Many times Public Safety is aware of what set off the alarm, yet they stand around and let students wait forty-five minutes to an hour just to get back inside,” Williams said. In her particular situation, much like Kugler, she exited her building late during a fire drill. Williams received a letter informing her that she would need to meet with her Resident Director (RD) but had to reschedule her initial appointment. Although Williams said a response email was never sent to her regarding her attempt to reschedule, Williams received an email stating she was fined $100 for failing to comply. Student Financial Services sent her the bill on April 24 and the due date was that following day. “I do not think students should be fined $100 for leaving the building six minutes after a fire [alarm goes off]. It’s just another way for the school to take money from students,” Williams said. The rules are set and students can choose to abide by them or not, but Public Safety urges that students are receptive to the regulations because their safety is at stake. Amanda Horvat, associate director of Residential Programs, brought special attention to the “Living Factor,” a pamplet given to all residential students at the beginning of the year has a “Fire Safety Guidelines” section on page 10. The Evacuation/Fire Alarm Procedures inform students what to do when the actual alarm is sounded. “For your own safety, evacuate. There are too many tragedies of students perishing or being seriously injured in fires on other campuses not to take an alarm seriously. We did have two instances of paper burning in residence halls, so it isn’t a case that it doesn’t happen here,” O’Callaghan said.
“Most of the times it’s because some girl doesn’t know how to use her blow dryer or hair straightener or kids are just smoking in their rooms...” expected to be taken seriously. I always hide in my wardrobe when they go off [and] I think the six-minute rule is stupid. I really don’t think you should have to leave if you don’t want to. I don’t get why it’s mandatory,” Holtzinger said. Holtzinger was a residential student in Enterprise last year. Although she did not receive an actual fine for not leaving her room, on one particular occasion Public Safety “yelled” at Holtzinger and her mother for not evacuating her dorm room. She explained to the officers that they had slept through the alarm but the officers lectured them on the possibility of what could have happened if it were a real emergency. Alaysia Williams, junior community health major, expressed her frustration at receiving a summons, although she believes it is valuable to evacuate during alarms. “I think it is a good safety precaution to evacuate for every fire alarm. However, most
The
Chronicle
www.thehofstrachronicle.com
203 Student Center (516) 463-6921 Editor-in-Chief Samantha Neudorf Managing Editor Sophia Strawser Business Manager Jake Nussbaum News Editors Magdalene Michalik Ehlayna Napolitano Assistant News Editor Lauren del Valle Entertainment Editor Katie Webb Assistant Entertainment Editor Elizabeth Merino Sports Editors Mike Rudin Sean Williams @ Hofstra Editors Isabela Jacobsen Jana Kaplan Editorial Editor Jacquie Itsines Assistant Editorial Editor Jen Sifferlen Copy Chief Ben Suazo Photo Editor Che Sullivan The Chronicle is published every Thursday during the academic year by the students of Hofstra University. The Chronicle is located in Room 203 Student Center, 200 Hofstra University, Hempstead, N.Y. 11549. Advertising and subscription rates may be obtained by calling (516) 463-6921. The Chronicle reserves the right to reject any submission, in accordance with our written policies. All advertising which may be considered fraudulent, misleading, libelous or offensive to the University community, The Chronicle or its advertisers may be refused. The products and opinions expressed within advertisement are not endorsed by The Chronicle or its staff.
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NEWS
May 1, 2014•
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Relay for Life participants walk to fight cancer By Beatrice Arner staff writer
This year’s Relay for Life raised $83,000 for the American Cancer Society—$32,000 short of their $115,000 goal. The Hofstra community came out to the intramural fields for the seventh annual Relay for Life to raise cancer awareness on Saturday, April 26. Contributions were made towards the foundation by the 67 participating teams and individuals on and off campus. With rain and temperatures in the 30s and 40s, students, faculty and community members still walked the intramural fields showing their support for the cause. “Every Relay is a success, but in my eyes, this one truly embodies what the event is about,” Kimberly Wilkens, a junior English major, said. Wilkens has participated in seven Relay for Life events, her first during her freshman year of high school. This is also Wilkens’s
second year as co-chair of Hofstra’s organizing committee. “We not only raised $83,000 for cancer research, trial medications, programs, facilities and information deeming us the top collegiate event across all of Nassau and Suffolk County, but we also proved that despite the weather, nothing is going to stop us in this fight. That is what the event is all about: sacrificing and dedicating our time for those who fight each and every day,” Wilkens said. There was never a dull moment during this year’s event. Performers such as Blue Lenex, Mike Tedesco, the Hofstra Dutchmen, and Banghara kept participants entertained throughout the 12 hours on the field. Students who came out to participate, no matter if they had been to a Relay for Life event before or not, knew how powerful this event was. Victoria Dempsey, a freshman English major, felt that this event hit close to home for
her. “I have two close family friends that have battled breast cancer and both won. Although I’ve never been to Relay before, I wanted to participate because of them,” said Dempsey. After this Relay for Life, it was clear that this was more than just a fundraiser. Logan Richmond, a junior music education major, shared its meaning for him. “Relay is so important to me because it’s an opportunity for the entire community to come together and fight a very worthy cause,” Richmond said. Though it is tough to put together such a large event, Wilkens always felt rewarded in the end. “Putting together an event of this size is bound to bring challenges at times, but the support we have from all our dedicated committee members, the University and from participants always enables us to persevere,” Wilkens said.
Photo courtesy of University Relations Relay for Life raised $83,000 on Saturday for the American Cancer Society.
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A 4 • May 1, 2014
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Holocaust survivor shares liberation story By Briana Smith staff writer
When 76-year-old Holocaust survivor, Alex Konstantyn — then 7 years old — was liberated from the underground hideaway he had been staying in for two years, he stepped on Poland soil, overwhelmed with fear as he came in contact with Russian soldiers. “I was told to be afraid of uniforms,” said Konstantyn. “I was crying. My mother was smiling.” Russian soldiers surrounded him in a circle, some tapped him on the back, while others picked him up and gave him candy. “I became a mascot to them,” said Konstantyn. “A little Jewish kid survived.”
April 30 marked Holocaust Remembrance Day. Hofstra’s Jewish Chaplain’s Office and Hofstra Hillel sponsored two events in commemoration. The first event, “Six Hours for the Six Million,” was a memorial reading of the names of Holocaust victims, and during the second event, Konstantyn told an audience of about 40 Hofstra students about his experience. “It’s an extraordinary opportunity to hear someone’s personal journey,” said Rabbi Meir Mitelman, a rabbinic educator of Hofstra Hillel and University Jewish Chaplain. “Alex
[Konstantyn] has an impact on students and myself, and helps us really appreciate our blessings.” Hofstra Hillel continues to host these ceremonies to make others
junior elementary education and Jewish studies major. “There isn’t a better way to learn about it [the Holocaust] than to hear about it from someone who had firsthand experience.” Konstantyn told students about the many obstacles he had to overcome to survive, to show them that he never surrendered without a fight. At times, he had to walk through the snow, he ate food his mother found in the garbage or he did not eat at all, he slept underground in cramped spaces for years, and, his worst memory of all, witnessing his father’s death. “The most significant thing I
“... Even when times seem rough, there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel.” aware of the Holocaust and prevent any further tragedies. “We have these events because if you do not teach about the Holocaust, then it is at risk of happening again, and a lot of people in this world think it didn’t happen,” said Jennifer Gold, the Hofstra Hillel president and a
learned is that even when times seem rough, there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel,” said Russell Vogel, a Hofstra Hillel member and sophomore psychology major. “You can always overcome obstacles. Just need to remain perseverant.” Konstantyn continues to speak at schools, synagogues, and other Jewish communities to not only share his experience, but inspire others to speak up and put an end to corruption. “We cannot be silent,” said Konstantyn. “We have to do, in our limited capacity, whatever we can to speak up against evil things happening around us. We are learning to live with and tolerate evil; that’s not good enough.”
On-campus ATM Music Fest preparations complete moves to Dutch Treats By Amanda Valentovic staff writer
By Nico Machlitt staff writer
Students may have noticed something new on their late night runs to Dutch Treats. The Student Government Association has recently added a new NEFCU (Nassau Educators Federal Credit Union) ATM in Dutch Treats. SGA’s “On The Corner” program revealed that 81 percent of students expressed a desire for another ATM located at Dutch Treats. Ariana Queenan, a junior, lives in Vander Poel and is in close proximity to Dutch Treats. “Of course it’s really convenient, it’s right outside of our building. I would rather go there than walk to the Student Center to get cash,” Queenan said. “With a shuttle stop right outside of Dutch Treats, it will be very easy for students to go get money and go wherever.” Mikio Manuel II, the student
services chair for the Student Government Association, wrote the resolution for a new ATM on Campus. He said there has been a very positive response from students. “Once we wrote the resolution, about a week or so later I got an email saying that they were going to be moving one of the NEFCU ATMs over to Dutch Treats,” Manuel said. Along with Queenan, sophomore Nikeya English, who lives in Nassau Hall, has heard about the new ATM in Dutch Treats. “I know about the new ATM in Dutch Treats. I don’t really use an ATM that often, but I know it is very important to my friends to have an ATM so close to where we live,” English said. SGA has also proposed to get a Redbox machine, to rent DVD and video games added to Dutch Treats.
“With a shuttle stop right outside of Dutch, it will be very easy for students to go get money and go wherever.”
Hofstra will taste a dose of “Cough Syrup” this weekend. Young the Giant will be headlining this year’s annual Music Fest on Saturday, May 3 at the intramural fields. Jhene Aiko, Vic Mensa and ASTR will be supporting acts, along with “Battle for Music Fest” winner, Hookz. The full lineup for Music Fest was not announced until this past Monday, generating talk about who the performers could be from the hints that event sponsors Hofstra Concerts and Entertainment Unlimited had been dropping. “We wanted to get people talking and get people excited,” said Jade-Ryan Williams, junior public relations major, who is the publicity chair of Hofstra Concerts. “This is our biggest event so we wanted to have big social media presence and get the word out to as many students as possible. We just have rules that we have to go by when it comes to announcing artists.” One of the hints said: “You might need some cough syrup after we announce this,” referring to Young the Giant’s song, “Cough Syrup.” A Lollapalooza schedule was also posted as a hint, mentioning that Hofstra’s Music Fest had three acts in common
with the schedule, also saying that one of them had performed on Saturday Night Live, that artist being Jhene Aiko. Planning for a large event like Music Fest begins in the fall. The year starts off with a list of possible artists to try and bring to Hofstra, including names drawn from a student suggestion box that are taken into consideration. “People are never really shy about who they want to perform on campus,” said Alex Rexha, the president of Entertainment Unlimited. The next step requires Hofstra Concerts to find the most popular artists that are available to come to campus. “We have to go through what the majority of our school would like and then what artists are available,” Williams said. After that process, an artist is agreed on, and offers to the artist are negotiated for a while. For this year’s show, Young the Giant happened to be on that original list. To make Music Fest a memorable event each year, Hofstra Concerts and Entertainment Unlimited join forces. While Hofstra Concerts is in charge of the music side of the day, Entertainment Unlimited lives up to their name by organizing the carnival. “Entertainment Unlimited
deals with the grounds logistics, carnival, food, vendors, and giveaways,” said Rexha, a senior mathematical economics and Asian studies major. “We work together for our advertising and social media campaigns.” Public Safety will be operating in full force throughout the day, with officers patrolling the grounds. “We treat it as a normal event,” said John O’Malley, associate director of Public Safety. “It’s an annual event, and we’ve never had any problems with it.” While there will be a few extra officers around campus due to the amount of people, it will be treated like a normal event. There will also be student public safety managers on the grounds for extra enforcement. The proceeds from Music Fest’s fundraising and publicity are donated to a charity. This year, that charity is the VH1 Save the Music Foundation, a nonprofit that works to bring music programs to public schools across the country. “It was something we all though was great and we wanted to show support for them!” Williams said. Music Fest starts at 12:30 p.m. and is free to any student with a valid Hofstra ID.
NEWS
The Chronicle
May 1, 2014•
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• The American Society of Civil Engineers is a new club on campus. They want to help their members get internships and give them hands on and real world experience. This group will work with professionals in the field and will go to civil engineering conferences. • The Hofstra Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists has been revived. They want to enforce what journalism majors learn in class and plan to host networking events network with other students and professionals in the field.
SGA WEEKLY
• The Hofstra Association of Graphic Artists is a new club on campus. Their club is open to everyone and will be reaching out to other clubs. They want to connect with professors and other artists around campus to teach students about graphic arts.
WRAP UP Compiled by Nico Machlitt
• The Nature Club is a new club on campus. This club will be used as a way to bring students outside of the school environment. They will hike, canoe and kayak. They want students to enjoy the outdoors and use it to de-stress and get away from homework.
Public Safety Briefs Compiled by Ehlayna Napolitano On April 23, a PSO on patrol found laundry detergent spilled in the hallway of Stuyvesant Hall. The detergent was also smeared on doors in the hallway. The person responsible was not found during a search and the custodial staff was notified for cleanup. A female student reported that her car was dented in the rear parking lot of Breslin Hall on April 23. Police assistance was declined. A female student reported on April 23 that she was being harassed by her ex-boyfriend, also a student, on the Internet and through other means. She requested a stay-away order and a summons was issued to the male student. On April 24, a female student reported that four males outside
Enterprise Hall approached her and aggressively engaged her in conversation. She texted her RA, asking for PS to be called. The males left before PS arrived and a search did not identify the men. A male student was cooking in the graduate hall on April 24, when he heard a loud cracking noise. He discovered that the outside window had been broken and reported this to PS. A search proved negative and the plant department was notified. A physical altercation between a female and male student occurred on the night shuttle on April 25. The female kicked and hit the male student repeatedly, until the two were separated by other passengers. The driver notified PS, but the male student got off the bus before they arrived. The female
student was issued a summons. A female student’s Range Rover was egged in the Netherlands South parking lot on April 25. An investigation is ongoing. Three students failed to evacuate during a fire alarm activation in Breslin Hall on April 25. Summonses were issued to all the students. A former student and a current student were apprehended in Hofstra Hall on April 26, after the two were discovered attempting to remove trophies. The student was issued a summons and the alumnus was banned from campus. A PSO on patrol discovered several flower pots and trash cans overturned, as well as six
benches damaged, on April 26. A search proved negative and the Plant department was notified. A female student left her cell phone in Axinn Library overnight on April 26. It could not be located the next morning. A search did not turn up the phone. A campus sorority reported on April 27 reported receiving fake Facebook messages of a threatening nature. An investigation is ongoing. A male student was found in possession of alcohol, a bag of baggies, a scale and a jar on April 28 after another student reported smelling marijuana coming from a room in Rensselear House. The student was issued a summons. On April 29, a student reported that his wallet was
taken from his vehicle at an off-campus location. Police assistance was declined and the student was issued a new ID card. A student reported that their car had been keyed in the East Circle lot by the Student Center on April 29. Police assistance was declined.
Key PS- Public Safety PSO- Public Safety Officer RA- Resident Assistant
@HOFSTRA
A6 • May 1, 2014
The Chronicle
O ve r h e a rd @ H o fst ra Compiled by the Hofstra Chronicle staff
In Roosevelt Hall: Girl 1: Are you a generous drunk? Professor: I’m a wife-beating type of drunk. Girl 2: There’s therapy for that. In Student Center Girl: He favorited my tweet so I think we’re more than just hook-up buddies now. In Brower: Professor: “God could have sent [Moses’] tablets down saying, ‘Thou shalt kill your neighbor, thou shalt steal your neighbor ’s lawnmower, thou shalt rape your neighbor ’s dog.’” In Student Center: Girl: My bagel just jizzed on me.
In Breslin: Guy: There should be a show like The View for guys to talk about their problems.
OVERHEARD SOMETHING FUNNY?
In Herbert Hall: Guy: It’s a bit nibbly out! Girl: Nibbly? Guy: No, nippley. In Enterprise: Girl: I don’t think I’ve ever been to the library, but technically I had to walk through it to get to one of my classes last semester.
SEND IT TO US!
Outside Breslin Hall: Guy: How are you going to spend Cinco De Mayo? Girl: I’ll probably bring a bottle of Jose to Chipotle, while wearing a poncho and a sombrero.
CHRONICLE FEATURES@GMAIL.COM
We’re always listening......
Senior send-off: Jana Kaplan By Jana Kaplan FEATURES EDITOR
It’s still so mind blowing to me that after more than 18 years in school, I am finally entering the real world. I had a late start here at The Chronicle: it wasn’t until my junior year that I had even become a journalism major, let alone become involved in extracurriculars. But as soon as I had the opportunity to start writing for features, I did. From there, I became
assistant features editor and this past fall had moved up to editor. I can’t thank the staff enough for welcoming me
alums who graduated last year and those whom I continued to work with this year, I have made some great friends and
on by people sometimes, we are a great contribution to the Hofstra Pride and have helped continue the almost 80-year legacy it has established. I wish everyone the best of luck and keep doing what you love, no matter what the world throws your way. I will never forget my experience here with you; love your faces!
“I have made some great friends and have co-contributed some pretty kick-ass content to this paper.” with open arms and teaching me all there is to know about print journalism. Between the
have co-contributed some pretty kick-ass content to this paper. As much as we get s**t
Photo by Jana Kaplan Graduating senior saying farewell to The Chronicle
Dorm Room Dish: Fruity twist to a frozen treat By Janet Lee STAFF WRITER
With about two weeks left until the end of the semester, I’m sure all of Hofstra’s students are planning on cramming for exams and finishing up some last-minute assignments. However, do not stress yourself out too much. This was a tough semester because of this winter. However, the freezing, gloomy days are over. The tulips on campus are officially blooming, meaning that spring is finally here. Get excited! The weather is finally warming up
and summer is just around the corner. Before the campus goes into official “finals” mode, take a break and treat yourself for making it through another year of college, and for graduating seniors, treat yourself for making it through four years. This week’s Dorm Room Dish might be one of the easiest recipes. It satisfies your sweet tooth while adding a “healthy” twist. You can make two different desserts with this recipe. This particular dessert
includes: • Chocolate ice cream • Raspberries • Blueberries Or just grab a tub of your favorite flavor of ice cream and add your favorite fruits! It is as simple as that. Once you are done with your ice cream fruit bowl, you can put the leftover fruit in the freezer and enjoy them as a frozen snack. You can even enjoy the frozen fruit as a study snack and take them with you while you are writing your final paper or studying for your final
exam. As we conclude another semester and another year, great work to you upperclassmen, and congratulations for finishing your first year of college to you freshman, and congratulations to the graduating seniors. Unfortunately, we are not officially done with the semester yet, but really Photo by Janet Lee close. Good luck to us all, Add fruits to your chocolate ice cream to but more importantly, I hope finish off your frozen snack. you enjoy this recipe!
The Chronicle
@HOFSTRA
May 1, 2014 •
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Seniors, welcome to your quarter-life crisis By Priyanka Jaisinghani STAFF WRITER
Go back in time — just to when you were about 7 and now think, what did you want to be? If you ask a classroom filled with 7-year-olds you’ll get a diverse range of answers — astronauts, pilots, Superman, Barbie doll, protector of your teddy bear, ballerina and the list goes on. When we were asked the same question in high schools, we all still had ambitious dreams — but maybe a bit more realistic. The answers varied, but we were all dreamers. We were told that if we put our mind to it, we have the power to do anything we want. Seniors, now here we all are, just a month away from graduation. When asked the question, “What do you want to do?” some of you already have a life plan set where you have a job and you know what the future holds. Many of you might
be in the same boat I am — in a quarter-life crisis. In this boat, we have more questions than answers. As a freshman, it’s all about living in the moment and YOLO. Nobody tells you how hard it will be finding a job or coming to terms with the reality of bills and baby shower invitations. This isn’t about our crisis, it’s about coming to terms with the greatness we are about to become. The road ahead is unknown, but we know we are going towards greatness. Maybe it’s not about where we’ll end up but, as Miley Cyrus says, it’s the climb. The climb seems rocky and shaky as we figure out the path unknown. When you’re on this path, don’t forget these things: 1) Take a risk. Take even a small one. You don’t start living until you get our of your comfort zone. Try and test everything out. Fail once, fail twice. You will get back on that saddle. This is
your quarter-life crisis and you can do anything you want. If you won’t do it now, when will you do it? Take advantage of all the opportunities life presents your way. You don’t have to get your life together in this one moment. 2) Figure out what you like doing. If you have a variety of
those passion/interest tests that you can easily find on Google. Find it and make strides to work towards it. 3) Do your own thing. It’s our differences that make us all unique. You and I could be similar, but our paths are all different. Do your own thing.
this moment. You don’t have to follow what is making others in the same age range happy just because you are of a certain age. This will lead you to a life of unhappiness, as you will never be able to pinpoint what motivates you. Get real with yourself . Don’t focus on the things you don’t have or haven’t accomplished yet. Go on that journey of self-discovery. Life won’t always be rainbows and butterflies. Some days will be good and others will be bad. At the end of the day, this is your life and work towards what makes you happy. Life won’t always be rainbows and butterflies. Some days will be good and others will be bad. At the end of the day, this is your life and work towards what makes you happy.
“The road is unknown, but we know we are going towards greatness.” passions, try many things until you realize what you like. For more immediate results, clean out your Sunday schedule and whip out a notebook. Spend the night sipping wine and write out all you enjoy (writing, singing, event planning, construction or even shoe-making). What is that one thing you truly love? For further assistance, take one of
Don’t be afraid to go against the grain and figure out the best plan for you. A job or even graduate school might not be your flavor. Whatever it is, go confidently on the path in your direction. 4) Let go of your expectations: This is going to be a hard one for some of you (and me). We have created an image of how life will be after
Club Spotlight:
Hofstra Equestrian Team makes strides
By Jenna Grasso SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE
Hofstra University Equestrian Team, also know as HUET, is an environment for all riders who love horses and want to form a bond with many other riders of all different levels. HUET’s members spend 10-12 hours a week together. They are together in good and bad weather while competing and showing their support for each other on the team. Debbie Ritterreiser, coach of HUET, has been coaching for 16 years. Ritterreiser said, “I believe the IHSA [Intercollegiate Horse Show Association] has a great concept, because the riders ride as a team rather then riding individually.” For many members of the Hofstra team, the IHSA helps them form bonds by dealing with the issues of unpredictable horses at the horse shows. No matter how a team member does at a show, the team comes together in order to help each other.
The team currently has 22 riders. The team meets every week for lessons out at Country Farms in Medford, New York, and meets on Sundays for horse shows with other colleges also within the IHSA, including Dowling College, Molloy College, Stony Brook University and Columbia. HUET accepts riders of all levels and helps riders develop in their techniques as well as confidence. Around 13 riders are in the team horse show, and all riders on the team are encouraged to perform in a horse show at some point. Riders of all levels, from beginners to experts, are riding together. This environment is a great place for beginning-level riders to learn from the advanced riders. “My favorite part of coaching is watching riders develop confidence and watching them develop personally,” said Ritterreiser. Many of the riders are riding horses that they have never been on before, which could lead to some getting
nervous about riding on the daily. “With a great support system, everyone becomes comfortable, and the environment is easy for a rider to develop personally and as a rider. There are no limits for the riders,” said Ritterreiser. HUET also participates in many community services events. Last year, Photo by Laurel Coffman members of the The equestrian team accepts all riders to join their club. team were in Long Beach on weekends helping to restore The world of the IHSA is personally, in terms of what they the community after Hurricane sometimes unpredictable. can accomplish for themselves. Sandy. HUET has also been Horses are not going to have HUET is a great environment involved with raising thousands the same temperament or stride for all riders, and makes all riders of dollars for the Leukemia & that a rider could be used to, and members of the team feel Lymphoma Society, and this year and this leads all members they are within a home and family the team is volunteering at a farm to the experience of getting environment. All of the riders that has a handicapped riding more advanced and getting develop a great bond with each program. All these events are more experienced with how to other as well as with Ritterreiser, done as a team. Last year, HUET become comfortable on different and the environment is great for won a national award from the horses. This environment brings riders of all levels. IHSA for their community service the riders together as a team, efforts. and closer to themselves,
A8 • May 1, 2014
@HOFSTRA
Do more with your summer at Hofstra University! May 21-August 22, 2014 Summer offerings are designed with you and your schedule in mind. Take a distribution class, catch up on credits, fast-track your road to graduation! UÊFlexible options:Ê" i ]ÊÌÜ ]ÊÌ Àii ]Êv ÕÀ ]ÊwÛi ]Ê> `ÊÃ Ý Üii Ê ÊÊÊV ÕÀÃiÃÊ>ÀiÊ>Û> >L i° UÊGraduate education summer workshops:Ê ÊÛ>À iÌÞÊ vÊV >ÃÃiÃÊ ÊÊÊÀ> }iÊvÀ ÊwÛiÊ`>ÞÃÊÌ ÊÌÜ ÊÜii ð UÊStudy Abroad:Ê vÃÌÀ>Ê vviÀÃÊÞ ÕÊÌ iÊ «« ÀÌÕ ÌÞÊÌ Êi>À ÊVÀi` ÌÃÊÜ iÊ ÊÊÊiÝ«iÀ i V }Ê iÜÊVÕ ÌÕÀiÃ]Ê«i « iÊ> `ÊÌÀ>` Ì Ã° UÊDistance Learning:Ê i>À ÊvÀ Ê vÃÌÀ>½ÃÊiÝVi«Ì > Êv>VÕ ÌÞÊvÀ ÊÌ iÊ ÊÊÊV v ÀÌÊ vÊÞ ÕÀÊ Ü Ê i]Ê ÊÞ ÕÀÊ Ü ÊÌ i° -Õ iÀÊÃÌÕ`i ÌÃÊV> ÊiÝ«iVÌÊÌ iÊÃ> iÊLi iwÌÃÊ>ÃÊÌ iÞÊi ÞÊ`ÕÀ }ÊÌ iÊ ÀiÃÌÊ vÊÌ iÊÞi>ÀÊqÊ` ÃÌ }Õ Ã i`Êv>VÕ ÌÞÆÊÃÌ>Ìi v Ì i >ÀÌÊV >ÃÃÀ Ã]Ê >LÃÊ > `ÊwÌ iÃÃÊv>V Ì iÃÆÊÀià `i ViÊ > Ê> `Ê` }Ê «Ì ÃÆÊ> `ÊiÝVi«Ì > Ê ÌiV }ÞÊ> `ÊÀià ÕÀViÃ°Ê Ê>`` Ì ]Ê V> «ÕÃÊ LÃÊ>ÀiÊ>Û> >L iÊÌ Ê ÃÌÕ`i ÌÃÊ`ÕÀ }ÊÌ iÊÃÕ iÀ°Ê
Registration is now underway! Visit My.Hofstra.edu for more information.
The Chronicle
The Chronicle
@HOFSTRA
May 1, 2014 •
The Humans of Hofstra
By Danielle Santucci STAFF WRITER
Dana DiPretoro, Freshman “I have visited all fifty states.”
Isabella DeLisi, Freshman “I can recite every line in Anchorman.”
Nick Manning, Junior “My grandfather was in an All State commercial and his hands started the All State hands logo. They trademarked it after him.”
Todd Granoff, Sophomore “I sing in a Jamaican accent in the shower.”
A9
Relay for Life was held on Saturday, April 26 in the intramural fields. It included performances by the Hofstra Cheer Team (bottom left) and Hofbeats, Amy Schildwaster and other members of Delta Phi Epsilon hugging it out.
amongst others. The event raised $83,000 dollars for the American Cancer Society, more than any other university on Long Island that participated.
Tomi Afolabi of Hofbeats performs at Relay.
Relay for Life Alyssa Legnetti and Kimbely Wilkens enjoying the long night.
Photos courtesy of University Relations / Spread by Che Sullivan
A&E
VOL 79 ISSUE 24
Emma Clark presents: Born and Crazed Photo courtesy of Victoria Espinoza
the
ds
B 2 • MAy 1, 2014
A one-woman show
A&E
The Chronicle
Clark takes SNL training to her own sketch comedy stage
By Heather Levinsky Special to the chronicle
Senior Emma Clark put on one of the most original productions I’ve seen at Hofstra this past Friday night with her performance of “Born and Crazed,” a onewoman comedy show that she wrote, starred in and co-produced with friend and seasoned producer Ciara Musson. Clark has had the idea of a one-woman show for a while, and this past fall semester she decided to finally make it happen. With the help of Musson, advisor Nancy Kaplan, and many of her friends who helped produce taped packages, work the lighting, recording and sound, Clark’s idea became a reality. Clark has spent the past semester interning at Saturday Night Live, where she thrived in the creative environment and further realized her passion for comedy. “Born and Crazed” featured many different characters, and Clark says that most of her characters and ideas come from real life experiences. “Life is full of unintentionally hilarious people, I love that because you don’t even have to make up the comedy, it’s everywhere if you’re open to seeing it.” Clark reassures that although she draws inspiration for charac-
ters from people she meets, she never performs the tribute in a mean-spirited way, and she says the people she draws her ideas from just fascinate her. Clark opened her set with a joke about the audience not being able to leave because the doors were bolted shut. She then suggested anyone tweeting about the show use the hash-tag “I’m trapped”, which she imagined would start trending pretty quickly. Clark started off her characters with a middle school band teacher welcoming the audience to the spring concert. She brought life to the character with a Minnesotalike accent as a lonely woman who likes to dump her multiples health ailments on her students. Her next character was an overweight police officer who was obsessed with performing the military song “Taps” for any audience he could find. The current audience he found himself in front of was unfortunately mourners attending the funeral for a fallen colleague. Clark excelled at not being offensive in what could be a delicate subject, and made the over-zealous, self-absorbed police officer very funny. The next character was probably the best because of how ridiculously simple the premise of the skit was. The character
was a singer, who was promised a cordless microphone for her performance; however she was forced to go on with a cord mic. All Clark really did was constantly trip and fumble over the cord, but you never got tired of watching her do it. Her facial expressions were incredibly funny and had a great range, and her quick outbursts like “I can’t even do a jazz box!” kept the audience laughing throughout the entire scene. Aside from live sketches, Clark also had taped packages playing in between her costume changes. The crowd favorites were a reoccurring lawyer advertisement that had an intense dislike of ferrets, and a rap music video entitled “Menstruation Frustration.” Clark ended her show with a vocal performance of Bob Marley’s “Forever Young.” “I wanted to come full circle, and end my performing time here at Hofstra the way I started,” she said. Clark had a video playing behind her of her performance during her orientation week at Hofstra, where she performed “Forever Young” at the talent show. It was clear not only how much hard work went into this show, but also that this is far from the last we’ll see of Emma Clark.
Photo courtesy of Evan Crochet
The executive board of the Hofstra Filmmaker’s Club.
HFC Spring Film Festival The Hofstra Filmmaker’s club held their Spring 2014 Film Festival this past Friday night. The awards showcased the work of the club’s students throughout the semester. The event was hosted by Maribeth Powers and Sabrina Yates. The big winner of the night was the film “Exitus,” winning five awards including Best Director, Michael Cicchetti, and Best Sound Editing, Nicholas Stonehouse and Michael Cicchetti. Kyra Angione accepted the award for Best Actress for her role in both “Exitus” and “The American Spirit.” “Robocop 5” won Best Art Design, Best Writing and the Audience Choice Award. Other awards were also given and the night was deemed a great success.
Photo courtesy of Evan Crochet
Mike Cicchetti accepts one of many awards for his film “Exitus.”
Joe Taylor promotes positivity through music
Lyrics of hope and optimism come from Taylor’s everyday life occurences
By Petra Halbur Columnist
Positivity in music is a tad rare nowadays. For every “Happy” that’s released there’s a “Blurred Lines” and a “Pompeii” it seems. Fortunately for us all, Joe Taylor exists. Though his songs cover a range of topics and emotions, they all possess a warmth and infectious optimism that is impossible not to love. He’s currently touring the country with the simple, straightforward hope that fans “take whatever they need from my music to
get them through their lives.” For those unfamiliar with Taylor, he’s a retro-acoustic rock musician whose most recent album, “Anything’s Possible,” features an electric variety of songs with memorable titles such as “Better With Our Clothes Left On.” When asked the impossible question of which song is his favorite, Taylor insists that he has too many favorites. “They are all like my children. I love them equally for different reasons at different times,” said Taylor. He derives inspiration for his lyrics from everyday life.
“I write about everything around me from day-to-day experiences to people-watching in various places,” said Taylor. The song “All Around the World,” which was released as a single in 2009 and later included on “Anything’s Possible,” was inspired by “a beautiful day in Los Angeles” and came to him in a peculiar place. “I was in the shower in L.A. at my producer’s place, and I started humming the melody for the chorus. I later headed over to [fellow musician Hillary Bernstein]’s and we banged it out in about two hours,” said Taylor.
The musician has loved music all his life and realized he wanted to be a musician when he was 3 years old. “I was sitting in the car driving to Toronto, Canada, with my family up from Halifax, Nova Scotia,” said Taylor, “and when we saw the skyline I just knew that I was going to play music in big cities and then all around the world.” Following one’s dream is never easy, but it’s worth it to Taylor, who firmly believes that if you do what you love things will fall into place, naturally. “So if music is your passion,
practice to master your trade, meet lots of people, have an open mind and never give up no matter how hard things may get.” He has advice not just for musicians, but everyone figuring out their career. “Follow your passion no matter what anyone says,” said Taylor. “If you don’t know your passion then ask yourself what you wanted to do with your life when you were 4 years old. No matter how silly that might be, you will get to the truth of what makes you tick as a person.”
The Chronicle
A&E
MAy 1, 2014 • B 3
Senior Sign-Off: Movie columnist By Ohad Amram Columnist
Where do I begin? In all honesty, when I was approached by the editor of the arts and entertainment section of The Hofstra Chronicle, for which I write, about writing a senior “sign-off,” I was quite skeptical. Why? Well, because we’ve all read so many “sign-offs,” most of which strike a nostalgic nerve, but ultimately leave us hopeless or despaired, as though the best of times have been had and will forever remain unparalleled. So there I sat, before my laptop, typing away at the last Hofstra Chronicle article that I would ever write and suddenly my skepticism subsided. Much like my first day at Hofstra when I pondered the same question of where I’d begin, it took some serious time to get acquainted with campus and this new chapter in my life. We’re generally told from a young age, either by our parents or grandparents, that college is undoubtedly the best time of our lives: a time of growth and self-reflection. I agree with the latter half of that statement. I think I speak for all of us graduating seniors when I say that the people we are today
have learned about ourselves tremendously over these past four years. However, I refuse to believe that our best years are behind us. The first steps we took in finding our friend groups, professors that continue to challenge us to better ourselves, or the clubs that we would work so hard for and identify with, is all a part of this continuing process. I’ll be the first to admit that I wasn’t ready for it. After my first few weeks, I wanted out. By the end of my first year, I was sure I’d transfer, and yet for some unidentifiable reason there was a small part of me that told me not to. For better or worse, I stayed, and though there are times I don’t love Hofstra, I am ultimately appreciative of all that my time here has taught me. Both as students and people, I see it in myself and peers that we have grown exponentially to the forward-thinking people we are today, and with that I gladly welcome the post-graduate life. Likewise, I encourage all of my friends in the same predicament to do the same, because truth is, without getting too sappy, I don’t believe that the best of times are behind us. In the same vein that we had
no idea what we were in for when enrolling here at Hofstra, with the assistance of our parents, to either Netherlands North or South, most of us are just as clueless as to what’s going to happen come May 19. What I can say, however, is that our dedication and integrity is what’s motivated and pushed us this far. With that as our drive, how could these four years, despite how much we’ve learned, possibly mark the end of the best to come? The answer, plain and simple, is that they can’t. Regardless of the dilemma you find yourself in, whether the job search is keeping you down, or you’ve come to find that your friends are no longer a stone’s throw away, remember just how far you’ve come since the first suitcase you unpacked in your Netherlands dorm, and how things were then compared to where you are now. With that I find myself yet again asking, “Where do I begin?” searching for the response in wanted ads and LinkedIn accounts, but the answer is, I think, that no one really knows. These things, they kind of just happen.
Senior Sign-Off: A&E editor By Katie Webb Arts and Entertainment editor
I’ve never liked goodbyes; they tend to make me stumble over my words. I often just fall into silence, wring my hands or desperately searching for something to fiddle with. It’s never a pretty sight, but I owe this paper far more than a stammering “see ya later” while I try to conceal my blushing face. It’s almost silly trying to think of what to say because I don’t intend on leaving this paper or any of the people that work on it behind. I want all the editors, assistants, and my writers to know that I’ll always be here for them. In fact, I’m sure a few months from now when The Chronicle
has its first layout of the semester, I’m going to be tentatively checking my phone for calls from the staff. Even if you guys don’t really need me, because you’re all incredibly capable journalists as well as leaders, just pretend to have a freak InDesign malfunction, OK? I think that is what I will miss the most. I love having a place to be every week where I am needed, and where I can be surrounded by witty, intelligent, somewhat crazy (in the best possible way) people. You have to be a little crazy to work on a newspaper, clearly. But that is why I respect you all so much, for stubbornly sticking by this print publication with a determination unlike anything I’ve
ever been a part of, to get the issue to the printers every night. Two o’clock in the morning on Thursday will always be my favorite time. In the office, 2 a.m. means cheering as we put final touches on articles, deliriously giggling about unsuitable editorial headlines and — best of all — visits from Glenn and Charlie. The night janitors, just Glenn and Charlie to us, have been two of the most supportive father figures to me. Their heckling to get me out of the office and get some rest was one of the most endearing experiences I had in college. It’s getting closer to Thursday morning as I struggle to type this out. I still can’t say it. Just call me when you guys need me.
Movie Review: “The Lunchbox” By Muhammad Muzammal Columnist
What a pleasure is “The Lunchbox.” In a year filled with independent films that have dark, cynical characters and even darker themes (“Under the Skin,” “Enemy”), Ritesh Batra’s “The Lunchbox” is a soulful crowdpleaser, a movie which effortlessly combines an adorable love story with themes of loneliness and loss. Saajan Fernandes (Irrfan Khan), a Christian who is an insurance claims agent, is lonely and distraught by the death of his wife. His eventful romantic counterpart is Ila (a charming Nimrat Khur), a Hindu stay-at-home wife and mother. She is also lonely because of a cheating husband who ignores her and a lifestyle that gives her only one friend (an unnamed, loud Auntie). In a mistake-led turn of events caused by the dabbawalas of Mumbai (Indian messenger men), Ila sends Saajan a lunchbox filled with an assortment of delicious curry and naan, all intended to be for her husband. They then begin writing letters to each other through the lunchbox, and soon the messages grow from small pleasantries to deep secrets Even though it is created and produced by an India-based film company, I would not classify “The Lunchbox” as a Bollywood film. Batra’s movie is more insightful and intelligent than a simple romantic tale with choreographed dance sequences and clichéd characters (all found in an average Bollywood flick). “The Lunchbox” tells a story about two heartbroken people who suffer from being alone and long to be loved or, at least, appreciated. The movie’s epistolary plot is a deviation from modern world communication. All the informa-
tion exchanged between Saajan and Ila can be said in one Facebook or e-mail conversation. The characters all see the world changing around them and therefore, so do we. Jobs are more competitive, trains are a lot more crowded and happiness is only defined by one’s salary. Despite these changes, food still has the power to bring people together (it connects Ila to Saajan). The world could change but food will always bring joy to people. The biggest message in “The Lunchbox,” though, is not about food or letters. There’s a scene where Ila’s mother (Lillete Dubey) complains about taking care of Ila’s father. “I had to feed and bathe him everyday. Feed and bathe, feed and bathe, feed and bathe” is what she depressingly tells her daughter. Ila’s mother’s daily routine of taking care of a husband who neglected his wife as she kept him alive, is a future Ila fears will be hers. On the other side, there’s a scene with Saajan going to work where he is called “Uncle” by a younger man and is treated like a senior. Saajan, who is significantly older than Ila, comes to the conclusion that he is just an old man. Ila is afraid of becoming an old regretful woman like her mother. Saajan, who is already old, fears to be with Ila because he won’t have as much time left in his life for her. “The Lunchbox” is clearly interpretive. Some will find the movie’s ending anti-climatic. I found it appropriate for its style and mood. It’s a delight to see a movie that is affectionate and sweet yet so grounded in reality. It is not only about the busy hectic life of India, but also about us as human beings.
B 4 • MAy 1, 2014
TV That Matters:
A&E Thursday night’s top two comedy shows thrive
By Christina Murphy
It’s Thursday night. You have no Friday obligations and the weekend is fast approaching. You are left with a handful of decisions. You could go out and sample the elegant nightlife options that the Hofstra strip has to offer, or you could stay in your bed, eat a pint of Ben and Jerry’s and watch TV. If you’ve chosen the latter, let me help you decide what to watch. Thursday nights have become synonymous with comedy. Seinfeld, 30 Rock, the Office and Scrubs have all spent some time in a Thursday night time slot. Currently the two top runners for Thursday night comedies are The Big Bang Theory and Parks and Recreation. Despite the 9 million viewers that enjoy the Big Bang Theory on a weekly basis I have yet to get sucked into its vortex of appeal. In my travels the only people who happen to enjoy this show have been pseudo-intellectuals, middle school boys in honors math, or dads. This show is more proof that the traditional multi-camera setup with a laugh track just doesn’t work anymore. This paradigm is far too limiting in that it lacks the ability to capture subtle nuances as a source of comedy; rather they must rely on predictable punch lines for laughs. In this week’s episode, Penny and Sheldon are told they are annoying by the people most important in their lives, who are secretly hanging out without them, so they join forces. The handful of chuckles I had during the episode occurred while watching Sheldon participate in Penny’s yuppie indulgences that included dinner at an absurd Asian fusion restaurant and a visit to a psychic, which Sheldon made very clear has no scientific merit. The episode touches on Sheldon’s intimate issues with his girlfriend, Amy, which showed a softer side to Sheldon. Amy is played by real-life holder-of-aPh.D-in-Neuroscience/floppy-hat-wearing titularstar-of-90s-sitcom-“Blossom,” Mayim Bialik. The neurobiologist is shy and pedantic but not quite as preposterous of a character as Sheldon. She possesses a very real and sympathetic quality and appears to be the only positive female character on the show. Contrasting to Amy we have Penny who is vapid, unintelligent and has admitted in this very episode that she has never paid for a meal with money. The show has been renewed for three more seasons and can be watched Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.
Review Round-up: By Kendall Gibson COLUMNIST
Columnist
‘The Big Bang Theory’
The Chronicle
‘Parks & Recreation’
‘Nights like This’ - Eli ‘Paperboy’ Reed
There is only so much I can say about Parks and Recreation without making my love for this show ooze out of the text printed on this page. The show’s main fuel is its dedicated fans who have stuck with the show through the many changes that have occurred during its six seasons and can still laugh at the jokes and bits that have been passed through the show since season one. In fact, the show is so confident in its cult-like fan base that it has literally changed the name of one character four times throughout the series, with little to no objection from viewers. This past week Parks and Rec finished its sixth season with a shock-filled finale chock full of special guests. Leslie gets a pep talk from Michelle Obama; Ben must defeat Blake Anderson in a game of The Cones of Dunshire; and Leslie fires Jon Hamm for being a more incompetent employee than Gerry/ Gary/Larry/Terry. The episode centered mostly on the highly anticipated Unity Concert. Performers included The Decemberists, Yo La Tengo as a Night Ranger cover band, Ginuwine and a once in a lifetime performance by Ron Swanson’s smooth jazz saxophone-playing alter ego, Duke Silver. The concert referenced some of the ridiculous things we’ve seen since the reoccurrence of big music festivals, one most notably being a hologram appearance of the late Li’l Sebastian, Pawnee’s beloved mini-horse. Amid the Unity Concert chaos, Leslie must decide if she is going to take a job in the National Parks Department, located in Chicago. The episode features a remarkable twist ending that only Parks and Rec could pull off, but I’ll let you see it yourself. The ending, as well as talk from the creators, implies that next season may be the last. Parks and Rec is on Thursday at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBC. In the end it really comes down to quantity vs. quality when assessing these two shows. The Big Bang Theory’s strength is its simplicity and mass appeal, which has earned the show high ratings but lacks true depth. Parks and Recreation manages to capture something unlike any other show on basic cable today. It is a feel good comedy that can make viewers laugh out loud in one scene and feel warm and fuzzy, eyes welling with tears of joy in the next.
Gone are the days of Eli Reed’s revivalist, blast-fromthe-past soul music, and in are the days of his ho-hum radio pandering. It is ironic that the very thing he brought back in his first album, soul, is the painfully missing ingredient in his latest release. Nothing on it sounds genuine, it just sounds like he is trying to jive with what’s popular. For example: “Shock To The System” sounds like a complete ripoff of Katy Perry’s “Roar.” The faux-ballad piano accompaniment is identical, and both have mundane “life sucks but I can dance through it” lyrics.“Roar,” however, is a complete ripoff of Sara Bareilles’ “Brave,” so I guess I can let Eli off the hook for cheating.
‘Midnight Sun’ - Ghost of a Saber Tooth Tiger This album is like something you put on a shelf and gawk at. Like a pig’s fetus floating in formaldehyde. Neither have much artistic merit, but they still deserve recognition for the sake of being odd. The music contained within this album could not have come from a more appropriate place, now that I think about it, because it comes from Sean Lennon, the only child of John Lennon and Yoko Ono. Only them two could produce somebody who is on the one hand a talented musician (his melodies are complex yet catchy, and he sings like a fifth Beatle), but on the other hand is completely wacked (seriously, I don’t know whether to call some of these tracks Dada or just plain gibberish).
‘Indie City’ - The Pixies Many famous musicians cite The Pixies as being their chief source of inspiration. Dave Grohl, for example, said in 2012 that “the quiet/loud dynamic that’s dominated alternative radio for the last 14 years can be attributed to one and only one band, the Pixies.” The Pixies, however, should be pasted into the dictionary as the sole definition for “hit and miss.” “Ring The Bell” is an example for when they hit and their sound can inspire. The singer’s voice floats, the melody drives forward, and the track ends sweetly. “Bagboy” tells you what happens when they miss. The singer’s voice is shrill, the melody is fragmented, and the track just sort of awkwardly dies. The jumps in between very good and very bad make the overall album jarring and unpleasant.
A12 • May 1, 2014
EDITORIAL
Senior Sign-Off: Editor-in-Chief By Samantha Neudorf Editor-in-chief
not perfect. We may not be The New York Times, but we try our hardest to do our job, even if it
My first two articles published in The Hofstra Chronicle involved some sort of controversy. The first was a journalism assignment from Prof. Goodman’s class about maintenance workers knocking and letting themselves in to dorm rooms. The quotes were fit for a journalism assignment and not a publication. The second was the big club office allocation, where clubs would be kicked out of their spaces and merged with others, including The Chronicle. These two stories, published in the same issue, set the tone for my next couple of years. This year, we had the pleasure of receiving lots of feedback from two editorials. Though most was negative, the point was that we sparked a dialogue and engagement amongst the Hofstra community. You, the readers, have shown that you care about whether internships should be mandatory and how vegetarians are viewed. And for that, I thank you for being involved. I can’t deny that reading some of these negative comments were tough. It was difficult at first to accept criticism from faces behind a computer screen. But I developed thick skin and this experience taught me to step out of my comfort zone. I also learned that you cannot please everyone, through your work and personally. At the end of the day, it must be remembered that we are student journalists. Yes, we will make mistakes, and yes, we are
upsets people. This is just prep work for the moment we turn the tassel on our graduation caps and walk out of Hofstra, keeping in mind all of the experiences we went through. I have grown so much through The Chronicle, and this was one of the best experiences of my college career. All of the tears, coffee, and sleepless nights needed to get through layout were times I will always cherish. There is nothing quite like working with peers who are also your classmates. We are all in the same boat trying to figure this out together for one purpose: to serve you the news. I would like to thank this year’s staff for being a pleasure to work with. From the first layout night we worked on the issue until 5:30 in the morning, to every layout after. And to Sophie and Jake, thank you for always having my back and for the Dunkin runs to maintain our sanity. Kris, thank you for always listening to me vent and for inspiring and encouraging me to be a better writer/ editor. Prof. Goodman, thank you for always pushing me to produce quality work, both inside and outside of The Chronicle. And to my parents, thank you for all of the care packages to share with my staff and for being my number one fans and supporters from 5,000 miles away in Hawaii. To next year’s staff: I hope you continue to find passion in this newspaper. Never shy away from the controversy—be bold and take risks.
Illustration by Matt Subrizi
The Chronicle
The Chronicle
OP - ED
May 1, 2014 •
A13
Tell them what’s really on your mind:
Course evaluations should be constructive, not destructive By Stephanie Kostopoulos columnist
At the end of every semester, Hofstra students are granted the liberty to “grade” their professors with course evaluations and say whatever they desire about the class and the professor’s teaching abilities. It gives students the opportunity to either bash or compliment their professors, all while remaining anonymous. According to Senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs and Dean of Graduate Studies Dr. Liora Pedhazur Schmelkin, “Course and Teacher Ratings (CTRs) have a long history at Hofstra University, going back to the early ‘70s. The University uses them as one source of input in personnel decisions. Faculty use them as diagnostic feedback in order to gauge student feedback and make changes and improvements, as necessary. Students can use them to get a sense of other students’ perceptions of faculty.” In some ways, the course evaluations are similar to the comments and ratings on RateMyProfessors.com.
Students are given the chance to voice their opinions about their professors, the class content, and the education they are paying for. They are able to speak their peace if they feel wronged by a professor’s teaching style or grading, or they can thank the professor for a satisfying learning experience. And it is available for everyone to see. But is the liberty of course evaluations a right? Is the anonymity justified? Dr. Bruce Torff, Professor of Teaching, Literacy and Leadership, believes so. “Students need to recognize that their voices are heard when they fill out these forms. It’s been my impression that students sometimes feel disempowered, as if the university solicits but disregards their responses,” he said. “But that’s not the case, especially when the faculty member is untenured or is seeking promotion. These things count.” Many comments can be very negative, but the students
“...is the liberty of course evaluations a right? Is the anonymity justified?”
are completely in their jurisdiction to remain honest, and their anonymity protects them from any backlash. Senior Vice Provost Schmelkin reassures this. “CTR results and analyses are not returned to the faculty until at least a month after the close of the respective semester. Faculty do not see any results prior to submitting their grades.” It is not appropriate to bash or insult professors, but the feedback can help them improve their class for future students. Conflicting personalities may lead to overly critical evaluations that are not conducive to positive change. So how helpful or hurtful can those comments be? Dr. Torff believes that good or bad, the course evaluations are helpful. “I urge students to respond with candor: if a course is great, rate it accordingly; if it’s not, give low ratings and don’t worry about the fallout,” he said. “There won’t be any, and the university has much to gain by collecting forthright input from students on course and teacher quality.”
“It is not appropriate to bash or insult professors, but the feedback can help them improve their class for future students.”
Have an opinion? E-mail us at editorials@thehofstrachronicle.com.
Love who you hate; don’t hate who you love The finer points of saddling up and settling down
By Kendall Gibson columnist
Having watched relationships start and fail around me on Hofstra’s campus, I’ve noticed that people tend to date for the fear of being single. Just because you can do something, doesn’t mean you should. Heed this advice in life, and also in college dating. The lure of a relationship should be what it gives you emotionally, not socially. You shouldn’t think of them as being black and white. There are many, perhaps fifty, shades of grey. If black is what you want, then you shouldn’t scoff at a dark, dark grey. Expecting your partner to be flawless creates too much
pressure in a relationship, so give them some leeway. Perhaps you’ll receive some in return. The lure of a relationship
had a fight. Arguments, however, can actually make relationships more worthwhile. You gain magnitudes more
“The lure of a relationship should be what it gives you emotionally, not socially.” should not be sex, either. Now that you know the correct reasons for entering a relationship, you should now learn the correct reasons for leaving one. People will often leave their relationship just because they and their partner
insight from heated debate than you do from parroted assent, so living with a person that opposes you has the ironic effect of simultaneously bolstering your
“You gain magnitudes more insight from heated debate than you do from parroted assent...”
opposing beliefs. Therefore, if you have an opinion that differs from your partner’s, you owe it to them to fight. Arguments, therefore, can be healthy for relationships. When you don’t feel like they are healthy, just ask yourself this: is your partner hurting you, or are they just making you angry? If they are just making you angry, then you can still have a healthy relationship. It shouldn’t categorically hurt you when your partner disagrees with you, because it normally doesn’t matter. Unless a person’s views come into practice, you have nothing to worry about in letting them believe. Good relationships should be strong enough to weather small imperfections, so stop worrying.
The views and opinions expressed in the Op-Ed section are those of the authors of the articles. They are not an endorsement of the views of The Chronicle or its staff. The Chronicle does not discriminate based on the opinions of the authors.
A 14 •May 1, 2014
SPORTS
The Chronicle
Baseball looks to CAAs By Zach Mongillo staff writer
The Hofstra baseball team came away with one win in its three-game road series against the College of William & Mary last weekend. The Pride faced some stiff competition against the Tribe, a team that ranks first in the CAA with a .324 batting average and a 140-run lead over any other team in the league. The team’s win came in the nightcap of Saturday’s doubleheader against the Tribe. Hofstra won the game 7-4 as pitcher David D’Errico allowed only 2 earned runs in 6 full innings of work. D’Errico has been excellent for the Pride since returning from an elbow injury about a month ago, holding a 2.52 ERA and walking just two batters for the season. The score was tight for most of the game, as the Pride held a 4-3 lead through the first six innings. The offense added some insurance runs with a 2-run single from David Leiderman in the seventh inning and another as Eric Ferguson scored on a William &
Mary fielding error in the eighth. Closer, Brett Schreiber, sealed the deal for the Pride with a 3-inning save, giving him 8 saves on the year and sole possession of the record for the most saves in a single-season by a Hofstra pitcher. The team’s two losses in the series came as they dropped the first game of the doubleheader1-12 on Saturday, and then lost the series finale 0-7 on Sunday. The team recorded eight hits and one run throughout the two games, as the offensive struggles continued. Things did not get much better in the team’s non-conference game against Monmouth University on Tuesday. Hofstra lost the game 4-14 at home, as the bullpen fell apart toward the end, allowing nine runs in the final two innings. With 14 hits, aside from the loss, it was encouraging to see some of the Pride’s more reliable players swinging their bats well. Kenny Jackson, who held a .242 batting average prior to the game, went 3 for 5 with a double and 3 RBI.
Hofstra holds a 5-7 record in the Colonial Athletic Association, which makes them the 6th-ranked team in the conference. The Pride will face Northeastern University for a three-game series at home this weekend and then the College of Charleston for another threegame home series the following weekend to close out conference. These six games will decide whether or not Hofstra will participate in the CAA tournament, with the team needing a few victories. “I think we have to win the series this weekend against Northeastern. We need to take two of three. They’re a team right there with us in 7th place,” said Coach Russo. Hofstra will have a lot to overcome in these two series, as Northeastern and Charleston are arguably the best pitching teams in the CAA. Charleston ranks first in the conference with a low 2.83 ERA and Northeastern is right behind them with a 2.90 ERA. “We have to try to keep with the small ball, just play for one run at a time. I don’t think we’re going to have big innings against great
Photo courtesy of Hofstra Athletics The Hofstra baseball team needs some wins and a little bit of luck to make the CAA Tournament.
pitching,” said Russo. Playing small ball will only be good enough if Hofstra’s pitching can hold their end of the bargain. Hofstra’s three likely starters for these series’, Nick Kozlowski, David D’Errico, and David Jesch, hold a combined 3.13 ERA on the season, with the potential to give the team a chance to win. Coach Russo stated in the preseason that his goal was to make it to the conference tournament.
The CAA tournament would be a notable achievement, as the Pride has made the tournament only two times since joining the CAA in the 2002 season. Before securing the CAA tournament, the Pride will have their hands full with Northeastern first. The first game of the series will take place this Friday at 3 p.m. on the University Field.
Softball tries to hit stride despite bad weather By Alex Pineda staff writer
Weather has been an obstacle since the beginning of the season for the Pride and it continues to be an issue, as the team had its doubleheader against Central Connecticut State University canceled on Tuesday and a matchup with St. Johns canceled on Wednesday. “This year we’ve had really bad weather,” said fifth-year senior Rachael Senatore. “Very different from anything we’ve ever experienced before.” The Pride have had 10 games canceled this year. Despite the issues presented by the weather, the Pride have gone 29-11 overall and 8-4 in league play as they have gotten results from many players allowing them to be successful and win in different ways. Maggie Hawkins, sophomore, took a tremendous step forward this season as she is leading the team with 9 homeruns, 41 RBIs, 79 total bases and a .585 slug-
ging percentage. Hawkins has also been solid on defense as she has had only one error in 273 chances, giving her a .996 fielding percentage. Fellow sophomore Chloe Fitzgerald has provided a spark at the top of the lineup, leading the team with a .375 batting average and a team high of 50 hits. Transfers Morgan Lashley and Taylor Pirone have been everything fans could’ve hoped for, as they have anchored the Pride pitching staff. Lashley has gone 15-4 with a 1.90 ERA, striking out 137 batters in 132.1 innings, while Pirone went 14-5 with a 1.50 ERA, which is second best in the CAA. “There’s been so many different contributions from so many different people in the lineup,” said Senatore, who gathered up 43 hits after missing all of last season with an injury. “You never know who’s going to come through and it’s amazing to watch.”
The team will wrap up the regular season this weekend as they look to extend a current seven-game win streak with a three game set against CAA counterpart Drexel. Although the Dragons are currently sitting in last place in the conference, with an overall record of 17-24, the Pride won’t overlook them as they are eager to get back on the field. “Successful teams play really consistently and play to their standard no matter who they’re playing against,” said Senatore. Following the regular season, the Pride will travel to the highest-ranking team in standings out of James Madison, standing 38-13, and the College of Charleston, standing 37-14, as they look to win a third consecutive Colonial Athletic Association championship. “We got all the talent, all the skill in the world,“ said Senatore. “We have all the pieces, all we have to do is play our game and enjoy it.”
Photo courtesy of Hofstra Athletics Catcher Erin Trippi takes a hack at a pitch. The catcher has been a spark plug for the team all year.
The Chronicle
SPORTS
May 1, 2014 •
A 15
Morgan Lashley on and off the softball field By Mike Rudin co-sports editor
Morgan Lashley transferred to Hofstra with a gorilla on her back, having to replace Hofstra’s former ace Olivia Galati. The pitching staff relied on Galati for the last three seasons, especially last season when she started 52 of the 59 total games. Despite the pressure, her addition to the team provided great relief. Lashley strut her stuff while still attending the Military Academy at West Point, New York. She won the Patriot League’s Rookie and Pitcher of the Year awards in 2012. Her career record with the Army is 62-30. Morgan Lashley made an impact on the team in her first year, not only leading the team as their ace but changing the approach to how Hofstra softball handled the pitching staff. Instead of trying to take on most of the workload like Galati, Lashley shared a good portion of time on the mound with Taylor
Pirone. Lashley started 22 games this season while Pirone started 14 of the first 37 games. Even Maggie Hawkins made a couple appearances, including one start. While Lashley is the leader of the rotation, she enjoys working with her fellow pitchers. “We’re very well staffed [in pitching this year] instead of a one man pitcher and I think that’s great. It makes our team more cohesive and we work really well together,“ Lashley said. Before the 2014 season started, Lashley was adapting to life at Hofstra during the fall semester. Lashley mentioned how her roommate and teammate, Erin Trippi, helped her transition to being a Hofstra student athlete. “She was there for me in the fall when I was having a hard time adjusting with all the workouts and school [work]. It was different than it was at West Point, and she always found a way to make me smile during the day. I honestly wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for her,” Lashley said. Lashley described how the
daily routine at West Point differed from Hofstra’s, juggling between school and softball practice. “[At Hofstra,] we wake up at 6 a.m. every day and lift in the morning and then go carry out our school day and then we do practice in the afternoon. Workouts are very rigorous and very long. It was really different because at West Point it was centered around school than softball. Now here it’s still centered around school but very centered around softball as well, and I working out a lot more than I was at West Point,” said Lashley. “It was a different type of culture I was trying to adjust to and it was difficult for me to understand at first, but when I finally started understanding it, I got a lot better,” Lashley said. Her transition to Hofstra has panned out very well for the 2014 season. She’s leading the team with the best record of 14 wins and 4 losses. Lashley also leads in 125.1 innings pitched, 123 strikeouts, 15 complete games
and 5 shutout performances. Lashley noticed that the intense training Hofstra softball put her through has allowed her to reach new heights. “Hofstra has brought out at least double [the strength] I’ve been. They definitely pushed me to limits that I didn’t know I could reach and the coaches, the players helped me get better. Even better than I thought I could possibly be,” said Lashley. Despite being a five-foot-threeinch pitcher, her training dating back to her high school days helped her overcome the slight disadvantage. Her pitching in high school was renowned for breaking the strikeout record, with 301 strikeouts and going 20-4 in her senior year. She was also awarded the district’s Player of the Year. Off the mound, Lashley finds the time between school and softball to unwind. Primarily rap and country music have been her go-to means of relaxation. “I’ve been to every concert [Lil Wayne] been to now in Charlotte,
North Carolina for the past six years now … Lil Wayne is my favorite artist and I love country, I love Luke Bryant, I love Florida Georgia Line,” Lashley said. She’ll get a weekly massage with her roommate as well, to take away the stress and pressure. Despite her intimidating performances on the mound, Lashley still considers herself a very feminine person. Whether it’s fixing her bow in between innings or just enjoying compliments received by her teammates for certain accessories. Even though Lashley has no problem getting her hands dirty, she says she enjoys anything with glitter or that sparkles. Speaking with Lashley, you can sense she is a kind, thoughtful and respectful person. It’s shown off and on the field. Morgan Lashley shows she’s very passionate in everything she does and handles, especially through her hard work training as an elite pitcher.
A 16 •May 1, 2014
SPORTS
The Chronicle
Athlete spotlight: junior midfielder Mike Malave By Kyle Kandetzki staff writer
For those who have followed Hofstra lacrosse this season, a name that has appeared more and more on your stat sheet has been Malave. And expect it to stay that way as the Pride kick off postseason play. Junior Mike Malave will be making his first appearance in the CAA tournament this week and vying for his first NCAA tournament appearance as well. Malave and his team don’t need a No. 1 seed to know they’re ready for battle. “I’m very confident this team can win the CAA tournament,” said Malave. “We’ve just got to get back on track to our winning ways, and we’ll be set for Wednesday.” Malave comes from Wading River, New York, and is an alum of Shoreham-Wading River High School. He not only succeeded in lacrosse, but also earned letters in track, golf and basketball during his time there. But obviously, lacrosse is what stood out in his high school career. Malave racked up 58 goals and 38 assists, including 27 in his senior year, even though he missed time due to injury. This impressive season earned him all-division honors, as well as election to the Suffolk County championship team. Malave was well-recruited going into college and appeared
to be all set to attend Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. After officially committing, Malave’s financial package changed and was too much of a burden on him and his family. This forced him to go back out into the recruiting process very late in the year. After some schools said they had already made their scholarship commitments, Malave found the “perfect fit” in Hofstra not only as a lacrosse player, but as a finance major as well. Malave’s impact on the squad was felt immediately, as he quickly picked up All-CAA Rookie honors and picked up 9 goals in 8 starts as a true freshman. Malave then went on to start all but one game last season, and picked up 11 goals on another team that just fell short of making the CAA tournament. Another important facet of Malave’s Hofstra career is his commitment to academic excellence, as he picked up the CAA Academic Award and a spot on Hofstra Athletics’ Honor Roll in 2013. But despite the early success Malave has experienced, he says he has gone through many changes and improvements in his game. “The team has become a really tightly knit unit over the years,” said Malave. “The junior class has come together to become an integral part of this team, and us
along with the senior class have really become key over the past few years.” Malave and his teammates came into 2014 trying to figure out where the Pride was headed, after changes were made to the roster due to departing seniors. Hofstra opened up their season expecting to beat a relatively new Marquette University program, but instead were embarrassed 11-9. Hofstra would then crawl to an 0-2 start following another loss to Princeton University, a point at which many fans and observers were highly concerned with Hofstra’s abilities. Malave, though, says losses like that kept them in check. “A lot of us thought we would be a good team this season, and that Marquette game showed us that any team can compete,” said Malave. “That game got us focused on the goal, and really helped us have the type of season we are having.” The rest of the season has been history for the Pride, as they went on to go 10-2 for the remainder of the season, and Malave was a consistent goalscorer through victories against Fairfield, Georgetown and Delaware, among others. But as the season has progressed, Malave has become one of the main offensive attractions. In a tough OT loss to St. John’s, Malave scored three
Photo courtesy of Hofstra Athletics Midfielder Mike Malave charges through defenders. The senior has stepped up as a leader this year.
Photo courtesy of Hofstra Athletics Junior Mike Malave brakes in order to change direction moments later.
goals, including a key late goal to force the overtime period. Malave then provided two key goals in a close win against Siena and three goals and an assist versus Marist College. But Malave did anything but tone down his play as the season wore on. His play in Hofstra’s final two wins earned him backto-back CAA Player of the Week honors. Against 6th-ranked Cornell the game went to overtime and Malave was the hero by providing the game-winning goal by bouncing the ball right by the goalie. The following week Malave put up a season high five goals to lead the Pride to an 11-6 win over UMass. But a season filled with triumph wouldn’t go perfectly. After Hofstra clinched the top seed in the CAA tournament, their season finale was an 8-7 loss to Penn State. Malave added a goal and an assist, but Mike says lessons similar to what they learned from Marquette can be taken from the loss. Coming into postseason play, Malave has become Hofstra’s second-best goal-scorer with 24, and is fourth in total team points with 30, both his best as
a member of the Pride. As he prepares for his first postseason play career, Malave cites his teammates for helping him get to the point where he is now. “My teammates are some of the most unselfish guys, and they’re always going to help me beat my man or get me a great shot,” said Malave. “As for personally, gaining confidence in my shot has seemed to pay off a little bit.” As he has become a prime player for the Pride, Mike has continued to stress the key role that good chemistry has added for this team. Captains Torin Varn and Anthony Zappone are among the names Malave mentioned as leaders of the group. “Last season, sometimes we would hang our heads after a loss,” said Malave. “But our vocal leaders and our comradery have made us better this season.” Different players have stepped up to lead Hofstra to victories throughout their 2014 campaign. And though Malave says he can only play at such a level with his teammates beside him, any opponent should keep a close eye on No. 7 when the ball is in his possession.
The Chronicle
SPORTS
May 1, 2014 •
A 17
The Altomare sisters side by side for the Pride By Nick Mazzarella staff writer
When they were little kids, Brittain and Taylor Altomare would play lacrosse with each other in their backyard. Today, the sisters are playing college lacrosse for the same school: Hofstra. Brittain, a junior attacker, and Taylor, a freshman midfielder, both started playing lacrosse in sixth grade. Brittain (lacrosse, basketball and soccer) and Taylor (lacrosse, basketball and crosscountry) were both three-sport athletes at Middletown High School in Middletown, Maryland, but lacrosse has always been their number one. “We’ve always loved lacrosse more, and it’s just always what we’ve been best at,” said Brittain. “It’s what we played on our club team, so that’s what we were doing year-round.” For the sisters from Wolfsville, Maryland, playing on the same team is nothing new. In high school, they won two county championships together. The Monocacy Valley Athletic League (MVAL) rec. team on which they played together was always undefeated. Before joining the Pride in 2012, Brittain was considering Hofstra and every other school in
the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) at the time except Drexel. After visiting Hofstra, she didn’t waste much time before committing to the school — just two days. “I fell in love,” said Brittain. Taylor, however, didn’t feel the same way as Brittain in the beginning. “[Hofstra’s] nothing like where we live, but the more I looked at it, I came to realize that I should do something different,” said Taylor, who was considering also Vermont and UConn. Asked about her role in recruiting her younger sister to Hofstra, Brittain said that it wasn’t a big one. “We really tried to let [Taylor] decide what was best for her,” said Brittain. “She was more mature in the whole process because she watched me go through it.” Similarly, Taylor did her best to act objectively. “I really tried not to let [Brittain’s] being here affect where I was going,” said Taylor. Playing a Division I sport is special in and of itself. Sharing that experience with a sibling, though, adds a little something extra. “Playing here together is probably something we’ll talk about
our whole lives,” said Brittain. “You’re on a team, so everyone has your back,” said Taylor. “But [Brittain] has a special place – she’ll always have my back, and I’ll always have her back.” Brittain and Taylor have reaped the benefits of being on the same team. Since Brittain has already gone through the summer workouts twice, she helped Taylor with hers last summer before Taylor’s freshman year. On and off the field, the two are each other’s biggest supporters. “We both get down on ourselves, and having someone there who’s family is really nice,” said Brittain. Now in her third year on the team, Brittain has taken on more of a leadership role. But she says that she’d be the same leader whether or not her younger sister was on the team. Taylor looks up to her older sister, and her motivation stems from Brittain’s accomplishments. “I would love to do the things that [Brittain’s] doing eventually in my lacrosse career,” said Taylor. And having spent two years on the team together, Brittain and Taylor are clear on what they’d like to do in that time: win a CAA championship. “We all want rings,” said Brittain. “Badly.”
Photo courtesy of Hofstra Athletics. Maryland natives, Brittain Altomare (top) and Taylor Altomare (bottom), have reunited on Long Island.
HOFSTRA ATHLETIC CALENDAR Away Home
Baseball
5/1 Thursday
5/2 Friday
5/3 Saturday
5/4 Sunday
vs. Northeastern University 1:00 P.M.
vs. Northeastern University 1:00 P.M.
vs. Northeastern University 1:00 P.M.
SOFTBALL
5/6 Tuesday
5/7 Wednesday
CAA Championship 3:00 P.M.
MEN’S LACROSSE
WOMEN’S LACROSSE
5/5 Monday
CAA Championship Game (if necessary) 1:00 P.M.
@ Towson University CAA Semifinals 5:00 P.M. vs. Drexel University 3:00 P.M.
vs. Drexel University 12:00 P.M.
CAA Tournament
A 18 •May 1, 2014
SPORTS
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Women’s lacrosse stays alive to go to CAAs By Sean Williams co-sports editor
The Hofstra women’s lacrosse team had its back against the wall going into a game against Drexel University in the unfriendly
confines of Vidas Field, north Philadelphia. In one of the biggest games of Shannon Smith’s young career as head coach, the Pride came out with a win, qualifying for the CAA championship as the fourth seed.
Photo courtesy of Hofstra Athletics Hofstra star April Ianetta directs her teammates down the field.
The 10-2 victory was anticlimactic after the tense, weeklong anticipation of a game that was to decide the final CAA seed, but it was a victory Smith couldn’t complain about. “[The players] knew what they had to do to come out here. We win, we continue our season for another weekend; and if we lose, we pack our bags and go home,” Smith said after the game. Brittain Altomare, a junior, had 4 points from 2 goals and 2 assists. The ever-reliable member of the Pride’s attack has accumulated an incredible 65 points on the year. Jenn Ward, a senior, scored three goals off the bench. “Jenn had a tremendous game, and obviously she didn’t want her career to end yet — she came out here with a lot of fire, played extremely hard,” Smith said. “On the offensive side of the ball we got a lot of production from a lot of different players, and we’re going to need to continue that going into next week.” April Ianetta, the multitasking
midfielder for the Pride, scored two goals and added an assist. But the offensive success of the team paled in comparison to the staunch defensive effort. The defense has been the recurring strength of the Pride all year, and Saturday’s game was no exception. Kelsey Gregerson’s 11 saves paced the team as she allowed only 2 goals. The Pride jumped out to a 5-0 lead by the half, stonewalling the Dragons’ offense while mustering up an attack of its own. Drexel responded quickly in the second half, scoring two goals. But Hofstra had no problem handily putting the game away, going on another five-goal run. “Our defense played tremendous, and I believe April had a heck of a game out there and so did Kelsey,” Smith said. “Kelsey’s been the heart and soul of our team all year. She’s been the one consistent piece on our team.” The Pride only took three more shots from Drexel, but Gregerson’s performance, and only four saves from Drexel’s
Teresha Bradley, resulted in a lopsided score. The only statistic the Pride struggled in was draw controls, taking only 5 draw controls to Drexel’s 9. “We continue doing it for our 12 seniors that are on the team. They’re great leaders and we’re happy with the win. We played great on both the defensive side and the offensive side today,” Smith said. The Pride travel to Williamsburg, Virginia, to face Towson University in the semifinals of the CAA Tournament. Smith said, “Towson’s a tremendous team, very wellcoached, and we’re going to have a battle next Friday.”
Back Cover: Senior Jenn Ward refuses to lose in what could have been her last game, scoring three goals.
The Hofstra
Chronicle Women’s lacrosse ends the regular season on a high note, destroying Drexel 10-2.
Charging into CAAs Photo courtesy of Hofstra Athletics