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THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF MANHATTAN COLLEGE | SINCE 1924
Volume XCVIII, Issue 13
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NEW YORK, NOVEMBER 20, 2018
Commencement Addressed at Student Government Assembly Meeting Megan Dreher Features Editor
Snow Comes to Riverdale The trees are covered in snow and students are bundling up even more after the unexpected half foot of snow that accumulated in New York on Thursday. BRIAN ASARE / THE QUADRANGLE
Snowstorm Strands Commuter Students Taylor Brethauer, Cathy Goodyear & Rosa Ortega Editor-in-Chief, Social Media Editor & Contributor
The snow started coming and it did not stop coming for many hours on Thursday, Nov. 15, causing many commuter students to become stranded on campus. What was predicted as a light snowfall plus a mix of frozen rain quickly turned into approximately six inches of snow according to NBC New York. In some areas of the boroughs, commutes turned a simple drive down the highway into a 10-hour or more trek home. This was no different for Manhattan College’s commuter population. Snowfall began around 2 p.m. and continued to pile up into the night. The College officially sent out a statement at 4:39 p.m., closing up for the evening and to reevaluate in the morning. “The College is closed as of 4:30 PM today,” the MC Jasper 911 system stated in e-mail and text. “This includes all offices. Essential personnel should continue to report.” Some students, like senior Sebastian Peña, a chemical en-
gineering major, were still in class at the time the e-mail was sent. “At 4:30 p.m. I had a class on Thursday and it was already snowing. There was a pretty good amount of snow on the floor and was still snowing hard [...] the teacher did not know about the e-mail so we were still working like a normal class,” said Peña. They continued class without realizing the college was closed. It wasn’t until the class began an online quiz did they see the e-mail. The professor decided to carry on with the quiz and end class after its completion. “Once that was over I left the building and it was even worse than before. There was a lot of snow and I was stuck in school since then,” said Peña on Friday. At this point in the evening on Thursday, traffic on Broadway and all side roads were backed up as road conditions worsened. Interstate 87, a major highway many students use to get home, was riddled with accidents, causing extreme traffic. Trains were cancelled and the subways were running on a delayed schedule. The city, much like the snow, was frozen. “An important reason on why I chose not to take the risk and just go home was that I was
IN FEATURES: Finals Preparation MC Alumnus on on Campus Begins Working As a College Advisor on p. 5 on p. 9
IN NEWS:
reading and hearing from different people that there were buses and cars stuck on the road and by checking the GPS traffic, to go home would take more than 3 hours. On a good day my commute is normally just 15 minutes. I was waiting for the conditions to get better but they didn’t so I ended up staying over,” said Peña. This left commuter students in an unfortunate predicament. Most could not go home due to the traffic or train delays, some were relying on rides from other students or family members who could not get there in time. Peña remained on campus for 32.5 hours in total. Students Liam Moran and Rabea Ali contacted administration, requesting that the Kelly Commons stay open for the night to house commuters. Moran stepped into the role of helping commuters after speaking to Provost Clyde, vice president of student life, Richard Satterlee and dean of students, Michael Carey. At 10:29 p.m., Student Engagement tweeted out, “Attention all commuter students: the first two floors of the Kelly Commons will remain open all night if you can’t get home! If you’re stuck at Manhattan Col__________________________ CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
On Wednesday, Nov. 14, students gathered in Kelly 5A at the Student Government assembly meeting to address their concerns regarding the location of Spring Commencement with members of the Manhattan College administration. Members of the administration in attendance include William Clyde, Provost and executive vice president; Charles Clency, new director of residence life; John Bennett, director of student development; Lydia Gray, executive director for marketing and communication; Ann Mavor, new director of health services; Tiffany French, assistant dean of students; Richard Satterlee, vice president of student life; and Gail Conklin, events manager for marketing and communication. Patricia Gunn Doherty, director of special events and commencement, was not in attendance. Following the introduction of the administration, Jaycie Cooper, student body president, opened the floor to students who wished to voice their concerns as well as ask questions directed towards the administration on the issue of commencement. It was the largest showing of students at an assembly meeting in the college’s recent history. During this time, students shared personal accounts of why two tickets were not ideal for their familial situations, whether it be that they were the first in their families to go to college, or that they were uncomfortable choosing between family members to sit inside of Draddy Gymnasium. “I’m married, and the first in my family to graduate college. How do I tell my wife she can’t come inside of Draddy so my parents can attend?” said Michael Giraldo, a student vet-
IN A&E:
MC Singers Perform at Radio City Music Hall on p. 8
eran here at Manhattan College. Other students were less concerned about the number of tickets, though agreeing it was not ideal, but focused more of their concern on the temperature inside of Draddy. “I am a performing arts scholarship student, so that means I have had to be present for the past several graduations as well as the baccalaureate mass. A huge issue that that venue has always had is the sweltering heat. My father is extremely sensitive to those sorts of conditions, so I know that the heat alone would be preventing him from being able to see me gradua t e , which I think is very unfortunate,” said Erin Plitt, a senior gradua t i n g Provost Clyde in the GABRIELLA DEPINHO / Spring. THE QUADRANGLE Clyde had the opportunity to respond to some of the comments and questions that students voiced. “We have been talking about this for four years, and we have explored different options. One thing I will put out because it was discussed a couple of times, we have a solution for air conditioning in Draddy,” said Clyde. Outside venues were discussed, including Gaelic Park, according to Clyde. But Clyde also noted that previous conversation proved that there was “at least mixed, and not a majority of interest” in graduation occurring off campus, so long as on campus accommodations would include the adequate amount of seating. __________________________ CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
IN SPORTS:
Graduate Student Matt Billings on Running on p. 12
Opinions & Editorials
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the Quadrangle Volume XCVIII, Issue 13 NOVEMBER 20, 2018
The Editorial Board
Taylor Brethauer Editor-in-Chief Stephen Zubrycky Managing Editor Jack Melanson News Editor
Gabriella DePinho Joseph Liggio Asst. News Editors
Megan Dreher Features Editor
Lauren Schuster Asst. Features Editor
Rose Brennan Arts & Entertainment Editor Managing Editor
Alexa Schmidt Asst. Arts & Entertainment Editor
John Jackson Sports Editor
C. Garrett Keidel Asst. Sports Editor
RikkiLynn Shields Catherine Goodyear Social Media Editors
Anja Pollozi Photography Editor
Alyssa Velazquez Production Editor
Samantha Walla Asst. Production Editor
August Kissel Michevi Dufflart Web Editors
Mohsin Ahmed Shannon Gleba Copy Editors
Abby Crowell Distribution Manager Nicholas Gilewicz Faculty Advisor About The Quadrangle A tradition since 1924, The Quadrangle is a news organization run by the students of Manhattan College. We strive to cover news around campus and the greater community, publishing weekly in print and daily online. Our goal is always accuracy, relevancy and professionalism. The opinions expressed in The Quadrangle are those of the individual writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Board, the College or the student body.
THE QUADRANGLE
LET T ER TO The Editor LIAM MORAN writes: Dear Editor, On November 15th a snow storm struck and paralyzed both the transit systems and major road networks of New York City. The major Interstates in the region became parking lots and in some portions were even closed due to the hazardous conditions. These condition required emergency action, which was initiated, and we were able to accommodate our commuters stuck on campus. I want to thank each and everyone who helped commuters in this time of need. Additionally I would personally like to thank: The Dean of Students Dr. Michael Carey, Vice President of Student Life Dr.Richard Satterlee, and Provost Dr. William Clyde who worked with us to keep Kelly Commons open and worked behind the scenes to ensure commuters were taken care of that night. Gourmet Dining who provided us with food and snacks to make it through that long night and a warm breakfast that beautiful Friday morning. Public Safety for keeping us safe and adjusting their schedules to the situation. The Multicultural Center who donated drinks and lent us their games, many a game of dominoes was played. The O’Malley Library who also lent us their games, star wars dominoes was an interesting twist and I personally might be borrowing it more often. Rose Brennan, Conlan McDonald, Sydney Kukoda, and Lauren Schuster who lent us pillows & blankets to make sure we were warm and got some rest that night. Jaycie Cooper, Rabea Ali, and Anna Rosario who helped advocate for Kelly Commons to remain open. The multiple people and organizations on campus that helped spread the word, including but not limited to Samantha Wilson, Cheyenne Ubiera, and JustPeace. Best Deli for their donation of fruit. Finally but most certainly not least of all, Marilyn Carter for picking up even in the long hours of the night and early morning to give guidance and update us on the plan of action. There is no doubt we can do things better. Yet, in this moment we can also appreciate we did something right and if anything we’ve taken one small step in the right direction.
Join The Quadrangle The Quadrangle’s staff holds weekly open meetings on Tuesdays at 4 p.m. in Kelly Commons Room 412. All are welcome to come and join the club. Connect with The Quadrangle
mcquad.org @mcquad @mcquad mcquad
A thankful, Liam Moran Speaker of the Manhattan College Senate
CORRECT ION In last week’s coverage of the Women’s Basketball Game, the title of the article incorrectly named the opponent as St. Francis Brooklyn. The team played against LIU Brooklyn, as correctly stated in the article.
News
NOVEMBER 20, 2018
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Commuters Slept in Kelly and O’Malley After November Blizzard __________________________ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 lege you’re welcome to go there for the night. Public Safety will be there too.” The news spread quickly across social media platforms. At 11:29 p.m., the following e-mail was sent out by Marilyn Carter, director of commuter services and outreach: “To any and all commuters stranded on campus, please come to Kelly Commons. Administration has allowed commuter students to stay overnight in the building. You will need you [sic] ID. Please try to make it by 12am.” The e-mail ended with her office’s phone number. Moran felt that majority of students were relieved at the opening of Kelly Commons. “It was a huge relief to be able to make it to a place and know ‘hey I can actually stay the night.’ especially with the snow and such as it was. We as commuters often stay on edge when the weather changes and we can’t get home; which oftentimes results into restless nights or even all nighters waiting for traffic or the trains to start working again,” said Moran. While most students did make their way to the Commons, many stayed in O’Malley Library, which is open 24-hours anyways. Karthik Maddur, a senior Electrical Engineering major, is one of the students who stayed in Kelly late into the night. “I am commuting from Yonkers, New York, which is very close by. I have my own personal vehicle, a car, I had planned to take the train, a bus, or my car but I had to eliminate my car just because of the traffic and the amount of snow there is. The traffic on the highways was ridiculous and train would
have taken way too long and couldn’t take the bus because some of the buses stopped running,” said Maddur. Ali, who was personally affected by the storm, felt strongly about the situation in a personal context. “Quite simply, I was one of many stranded on campus and should I not have had amazing gracious friends, I’d have been screwed should the Commons have closed at midnight as the original intention was. Furthermore, I was thinking of others in the same situation and those that were trying to make it to MC after attempting the transit and realizing it was incredibly unsafe and unrealistic. One of the people attempting to make it to MC for the evening happened to be my brother,” said Ali. These quick accommodations saved many students from traveling in the storm, but some students thought a plan should’ve been in place before the snow began falling. In terms of food, since Starbucks and the Marketplace were closed, Best Deli on W 242nd St. donated fruit for the evening. In the morning, Locke’s Loft was opened to all commuter students for free. It is unclear what plans will be made to prevent something like this happening again. Maddur had her personal opinions about this, “first I think it is very obvious the school needs to tell everyone that the school is closed before this entire thing happened. That would eliminate all of this trouble, the second is if this were to happen again, the school should have a plan on where commuters should stay, for example, lounges, extra dorms, in Kelly which happened because of the Commuter students Association and
Liam, and food to be provided.” Moran, who served as point person for the entire evening, had his own thoughts, “the biggest issue of this situation was how late we got the okay and the word out. We and the NYC area were caught off guard by this storm. I know administration will be working on a contingency plan to make sure this doesn’t happen again. This is a step in the right direction. The storm last night placed a lot of commuters at risk, something I feel we as an institution have the moral obligation in mitigating,” said Moran. Friday, Nov. 16 began on a delayed schedule with the College not opening until 9 a.m. Classes that started before 9 a.m. were cancelled. Some students were given excused absences in order to go home, like Ali who had to miss a 9 a.m. exam. Two of her classes were cancelled. Others were given unexcused absences despite not going home the evening before As of right now, there is no snow forecast for the days leading up to Thanksgiving break. Moran wanted to thank those that helped during the night, saying, “Gourmet Dining really came to our rescue, Nick personally bringing food and drinks brought tears to my eyes as I was really worried how I was going to get commuters food. Best Deli also helped with their donation. To the multiple resident students that bought extra pillows and blankets, I’m still beyond thanks and touched at your compassion. It helped us so much. A big thanks also to my boss Marilyn Carter for picking up in the middle of the night and early morning to give hourly updates on the situation and giving me guidance.”
Open Forum Held at Assembly Meeting Regarding Commencement __________________________ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Students rebutted against Clyde’s claim that students “preferred” to graduate inside of Draddy. Clyde responded by stating that there was a survey sent out in 2014 on this matter, but agreed that there should be a survey sent out to students and parents more frequently. None of the off-campus options seemed “viable” due to the fact that they were not available from the venues’ perspective, so Gaelic Park was looking more promising. After running into issues with the clearance for capacity in Gaelic Park, the venue was taken off the table as an option in August 2018. In terms of capacity concerns inside of Draddy Gymnasium, the building is rated to
host different capacities based off of different events. For commencement, the building is rated for 3600 people. That number is based off of the number of accessible exits in the venue. As of right now, with that capacity rating and the current enrollment of the Class of 2019, the amount of tickets available to students is right on the cusp of three per person. In an effort not to oversell the venue, the restriction of two tickets per student was decided upon. Though the discussion around commencement concluded after 36 minutes, students demanded that their voices were heard. Members of the administration were invited to stay to continue the conversation after the assembly concluded, but only Clency,
Bennett, Mavor, French, and Satterlee remained in attendance. The resolution regarding the Manhattan College Commencement Exercises, sponsored by over 346 currently enrolled students, was passed by the voting members of the Assembly, and will now move on to the Senate. The Senate meeting will occur on November 20 in the Alumni Room of O’Malley Library at 3 p.m. All students are invited to attend to continue addressing their concerns. Further action will be addressed contingent upon the Senate meeting decision. Follow the Quadrangle for continuing coverage on this matter.
(TOP) Commuter students in Kelly Commons, which remained open overnight. (BOTTOM) Commuter students stayed in O’Malley Library, which is open 24-hours. ROSA ORTEGA & FATOUMATA SAHO / COURTESY
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THE QUADRANGLE
Student Government Assembly Meeting Has Large Turnout, Introduces New Directors and Discusses Committee Updates Taylor Brethauer Editor-in-Chief
Student Government held one of its largest meetings on Wednesday, Nov. 14 in Kelly 5A due to the outpour of student concern regarding commencement. The Cooper administration invited multiple college administrators, including the provost. For in-depth coverage of the open forum, see the “Commencement Addressed at Student Government Assembly Meeting” article on page one. “Thank you again to the administration for coming here and listening to our concerns,” said Jaycie Cooper, student body president, afterwards. Immediately following the discussion, which was held during the first half hour of the meeting, the assembly returned to their regular agenda. New Directors Two new directors were introduced to the crowd that remained after the open forum. First was Charles Clency, the new director of residence life. He comes to Manhattan College with 22 years of prior
-----------------------I want to hear your voices as we try to march forth and make improvements,” said Charles Clency, the new director of residence life. -----------------------experience and previously worked at the University of North Carolina, Greensboro campus in Greensboro, N.C. “I have a lot of different ways and approaches on how to build and enhance and make the program even better than it has been,” said Clency. He has spent his first week meeting with administrators, faculty, staff and residence assistants to discuss what can be done within the residence halls. He also spoke about his three children: one already graduated from college, one in college and a young one at home. “I’ve run the gamut and I understand what your parents may be asking, because I’ve been one of those parents-- I am one of those a parents as we speak,” said Clency. He is optimistic to begin addressing concerns head on as he begins at Manhattan Col-
lege. “I want to hear your voices proactively as we try to march forth and make improvements,” said Clency. Then there was Ann Mavor, the new director of health services, who began on Nov. 1. She previously worked at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT. “I’ve gotten e-mails from a few students already [...] we’re hoping for a healthy school year. We’re offering health care to those that need but also do outreach if that’s possible,” said Mavor. Food Ser vice Committee (FSC) Updates The head of the FSC, Fatoumata Saho, updated the assembly from their previous meetings. One idea that came up was providing reusable mugs in the dining hall, a project that would be co-sponsored by Just Peace. “We are planning to have reusable mugs in Locke’s [...] our planet is falling apart so we’re trying to save it by using these mugs,” said Saho. Nicholas Valinotti, resident district manager of Gourmet Dining at MC, was in attendance. He announced some events and menu plans for that week. Educational Affairs Committee (EAC) Updates The last of the big announcements came from Kerry Cavanagh, vice president of academic affairs. She updated the assembly about the EAC. Addressing independent studies, there was a rumor that the college had done away with all independent study courses. “I brought that up in the EAC and it appears as though the policy has not changed. But they are being told to limit the amount of independent studies that we have so chairpersons can decide if they want to continue holding them but the policy [has not changed],” said Cavanagh. She then mentioned that the Holocaust, Genocide and Interfaith Center would be moving locations from the third floor of the library to the fifth floor. The original location would then be switched into a study room. Then, she spoke about the Global Business major and its removal from the O’Malley School of Business. “They have not heard about it. We are going to follow up on that,” said Cavanagh. The minutes were accepted and the meeting was adjourned. The next and final assembly meeting of the semester will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 5 at noon in Kelly 5C.
(From left to right) Jaycie Cooper, Jack Melanson, Jara Giner and Haley Nightingale listen to Provost Clyde as he addresses the crowd during the open forum about commencement at the beginning of the meeting. GABRIELLA DEPINHO / THE QUADRANGLE
The assembly meeting was widely attended due to the commencement discussion. Afterwards, the Cooper administration carried on with their usual assembly agenda covering committee updates and new directors. JOE LIGGIO / THE QUADRANGLE
News
NOVEMBER 20, 2018
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Finals Week Prep Has Begun Katie Heneghan Staff Writer
Every year, Student Government and the Resident Student Association lead a Stress Relief Week the week before finals to help students relax prepare for final examinations. Final Exams will take place Dec. 10 to Dec. 14, and stress
stress relief tips, studying advice and will have the opportunity to write encouraging messages to other students. The messages that students write will be posted in the library so that students can look at the words of wisdom for encouragement while studying. Also, at 7:30 p.m. there will be a free yoga class with Rikki Lynn Shields open to all students to
for Stress Relief Week introduced this year that Student Government is looking forward to holding. Friday, Dec. 7th, there will be a giveaway on the first floor of Kelly Commons from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a Starbucks Gift Cards and a Bookstore Gift Cards. They will also be giving away study supplies to students as well.
-----------------------“It’s just to have some fun activities planned throughout campus to keep students engaged and relaxed during their studying for finals. It gives students an opportunity just to leave their room and do things around campus,” said Haley Nightingale, vice president of club administration. -----------------------relief week events will be held on Monday, Dec. 3 to Sunday, Dec. 9. Isabel Quinones, vice president for residential affairs, leads the charge on Stress Relief Week in order to help students manage the pressure of finals. She is assisted by Senior and vice president of clubs administration, Haley Nightingale who says, “It’s just to have some fun activities planned throughout campus to keep students engaged and relaxed during their studying for finals. It gives students an opportunity just to leave their room and do things around campus”. Student Government has planned a “Mindfulness Monday” on Dec. 3 which will include “Positive Thinking” in Kelly Commons 1st Floor, where students will receive
assist in keeping students relaxed and focused. Additionally, Student Government has worked with Gourmet Dining to offer discounted coffee at the Kelly Commons Starbucks from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Tuesday Dec. 4. Iced coffee will be $2, Hot coffee is $1. Gourmet Dining is also working with Stress Relief Week to offer a Midnight Breakfast at Lockes Loft from 10 p.m. to 12 a.m. on Wednesday Dec. 5. The Midnight Breakfast will be open to residents and commuters as well. Thursday, Dec. 6 the Resident Student Association and Student Government will hold a Holiday Party in Jasper Hall. “Were going to have giveaways, and holiday-themed stuff, holiday music and it’s just a time to get away from studying” says Quinones. This is a new event
Also, Senior Haley Nightingale is working with Athletics to hold a Stress Relief Men’s Basketball game on Sunday, Dec. 9th in Draddy. It is still unsure who the team will play, but the hope is to get students away from studying for a few hours to help them relax and do something fun on campus. The Stress Relief Week events help students find a balance between work and play by giving them outlets to relax, while also helping them stay engaged and focused throughout the week with the various events and different strategies offered to students. Be sure to look out for flyers with further details of Stress Relief Week events in the coming weeks. Editor’s Note: Rikki Lynn Shields is the social media editor for The Quadrangle.
O’Malley Library will be prepared for the influx of students during finals week, but other spaces will also be available as study spaces during the end of the semester. ANJA POLLOZI / THE QUADRANGLE
On Tuesday, Dec. 4, Starbucks will have discounted prices. On Friday, Dec. 7 there will be a giveaway for Starbucks giftcards. ALEXA SCHMIDT / THE QUADRANGLE
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Arts & Entertainment
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THE QUADRANGLE
Scatterbomb Teams Up with English Department for “English Night” Taylor Brethauer Editor-in-Chief
The improv comedy troupe, Scatterbomb, hosted another hilarious show, partnering with the English department. On Friday, Nov. 16, Hayden 100 was filled with students eager for the annual “English Night.” The annual tradition of English Night is when Scatterbomb invites English professors to tell a crazy or funny story from their lives. The troupe then creates improvised scenes inspired by details of their stories. The first professor was Deirdre O’Leary Cunningham, associate professor of English. She began talking about when she teaches the Edward Albee play “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”, students will ask how the characters stay so long at such a terrible party. O’Leary Cunningham usually agrees, until she experienced a terrible party of her own at a neighbor’s house. She eventually admits that she made her baby daughter cry so her and her husband find a way to escape. Scatterbomb took to the stage to begin performing scenes based on anything that came to mind while listening to her story, the first scene with Jenn Bueti and Kevin Donald. The two are counting money when they realize there is some missing and call in their
wait staff. The staff is questioned until the scene reached its peak level of absurdity and was ended to begin a new scene. Donald, Meredith Taylor and Moira Delaney sit around Aeden Roney comforting him as he cries. “Does this mean Rusty isn’t coming home?” asked Roney. It wasn’t until Taylor began sifting through Roney’s unpleasant vomit that the audience finds out that Rusty was Roney’s favorite penny that he accidentally swallowed. The scene cuts to Roney meeting with his dietician, played by Brendan Hanney. Roney explains he’s been eating money, including cryptocurrency. This puzzles Hanney as he asks how that’s possible. The scene then cuts to Roney out on a date with Bueti, with Donald as their server. “Our specials today are the Dolla Dolla Burger, a Checkbook Salad and a shrimp bisque,” said Donald. He also mentions a Chase credit card dessert. “It’s just a credit card for dessert and you just eat it whole [...] it’s expensive but it’s worth it,” said Donald. The scene ends and switches to Sydney Waitt and Bueti out eating together. Waitt tells Bueti she is vegan, except Bueti remembers Waitt not being vegan the day before. The scene cuts to that, where Waitt gets excited about
Scatterbomb holds an annual “English Night” where members of the English department tell stories and the improv troupe builds scenes based on those stories. TAYLOR BRETHAUER / THE QUADRANGLE eating a giant steak. “We see she’s wearing a full leather jumpsuit,” said Donald from offstage, creating a mental image for the audience. Waitt explains to Bueti that she has an idea for melted cheese on a steak. The scene cuts to Waitt pitching this idea to Roney, who freaks out. “I mean, I don’t think Sears was the right place to come to but you can do big things with this,” said Roney to Waitt. Donald then hears of this idea and starts throwing chairs and screaming because of his excitement and shock over the steak idea. “Don’t do this in the lawn mower section,” said Roney. Donald keeps pantomiming getting on a riding lawn mower.
The scene ends with Roney telling Donald about two more ideas: a hot dog with a bun made of steak and a cup of water, but the cup is more steak. Donald screams again and rides the lawn mower off into the store. The last scene based off of O’Leary Cunningham’s story featured Taylor, Hanney and Bueti. Taylor and Hanney are complaining about their dirty house before guests come over when Bueti shows up saying she can clean it for them. Hanney is skeptical since Bueti is asking for them to leave their house while she cleans. But Taylor continues to talk about each item in their house based on the quality and the price she could sell it for on
eBay. Bueti then invites in her workers, Roney and Delaney in to help clean, but Hanney is still skeptical. The scene ends as Delaney hilariously points out, “but I have this squeegee.” The second half of the show featured Rocco Marinaccio, professor of English. He talks about how he doesn’t like costumed characters, especially those at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla. He talks about cussing out and strangling a guy in a parrot costume that was in his hotel lobby and how terrorized he __________________________ CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
A November Snow Storm on Campus THIS WEEK IN PHOTOS
Photos by Brian Asare, Staff Writer
NOVEMBER 20, 2018
Arts & Entertainment
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Senior Uses Creative Eye to Make Original Pieces ON-CAMPUS FASHION FINDS August Kissel Web Editor
Katherine Clyde is a senior majoring in mechanical engineering at Manhattan College. Clyde has a passion for fashion and enjoys making her own clothing. She sat down and discussed her style with us. The Quadrangle: How would you describe your style? Katherine Clyde: I don’t really know, I feel like my style, I work hard to not be able to be described. One day I’ll be the cute little sunshine girl with a frilly dress and nice shoes, and the next day I’ll be gothicy with the leather jacket, all black with a little bit of dark purple. I feel like every style I wear I’m just excited about, it’s not necessarily who I am, it’s just a cool thing. I want to have a little part of this and a little part of that. TQ: Where do you find most of your pieces? I also know that you sew some of your pieces. KC: The stuff that I sew, for awhile, was coming from one, random scraps of fabric I managed to convince my mom needed to be turned into something else and two, my sister had a bunch of sewing patterns so I would steal them and sew stuff. I started to gradually move into finding something on the internet that was really cute, or I would go to the store and find a piece that was cute and that I liked but it wasn’t perfect. Sometimes it was a little too short or a little too much cleavage, something that I wouldn’t normally wear, and I would go home and I say “How can I manipulate something to be similar to that, a similar style but not necessarily ‘it’?” Most of my clothes I put together, I saw someone else wearing something similar like maybe I saw it on a TV show, a video game, literally anything. For example I went to one basketball game during my existence at this school, and the dance
team had this really cute shirt, so I made a shirt that was similar to that. The actual clothing, I tend to either sew or I have designated thrift stores as the main place I’ll buy clothing from and I also have clothes that used to be my grandmother’s. Some of the clothes I have are just made out of necessity; there was a skirt I stole from her closet. It was really pretty but it was too small on me so I cut it down one of seems and sewed a tie into it, it wasn’t to make this more pretty or unique, it was I need this skirt to be bigger so I’m going to add a piece of fabric here. TQ: Since you have been at Manhattan, would you say your style has adjusted or changed at all? KC: Maybe not for the better, as the college years have gotten harder and harder I feel as though I have spent less time on my outfits. Before I would put this whole thing together. For example, I love Halloween because I love dressing up so each day of the week before Halloween I would put together a different Halloween-like outfit and then fully dress up and wear this intricate outfit on Halloween. This year I didn’t wear anything but the actual Halloween outfit. I feel like my style has slowly become super grungy, that’s what somebody described it as. I guess as I have gotten older I haven’t seen a change. My boyfriend makes fun of me because he describes it as a variety of different things, sometimes he says I look like a ten-year-old or a two-year-old, and there was one time I wore a jean dress with an orange turtleneck sweater and he said I looked like an art teacher or a mom and I was like “Well, that’s not a bad thing, I think they’re cute.” There is this big contrast because I never put time into my hair and I don’t wear makeup, I don’t even paint my nails too fancy, but I do love to put time into my outfits. TQ: How would you recommend someone could branch out and try new things in their
fashion and clothing? KC: The best why I can describe it is this I felt like it was too cold this past week, and I was like “this is ridiculous” so I put together a spring outfit. I wore bright colors and something that you clearly wear in the spring or the summer. And I was like “You know what, here I am!” and I wore tights and bright socks to keep me warm. But I decided this is what I’m doing. Sometimes that’s just what you need, a little bit of brightness. TQ: The closest thing I can compare that to is what I call a power outfit, and when I have a day and I know I need to get through that day, I fill put on an outfit that I know will carry me through. KC: Things like that, go with your mood. Maybe I’ll just wear a piece with all black so then “It” is it. It’s like the centerpiece in a museum. And then other times I wear every single exciting thing I can find. I love themes. And I’ll have strappy as my theme, I’ll wear suspenders, I’ll wear a spaghetti strap shirt. Or sometimes I’ll do theme weeks and I’ll do all red, so each outfit has to have a little bit of red in each of them, and this will be the stand out color in each outfit. Or sometimes, if I’m reading a book, like in high school I was reading Peter Pan, I would dress up as the different characters. Like for Wendy, I wore a pale blue dress and a necklace with an acorn stuck onto it because in the book an acorn is a kiss. Or for Peter Pan, I wore a green shirt and brown pants, I had a charm bracelet with “fairy dust” or glitter in it, and an orange ribbon in my hair. This is something that I am excited about at the moment, but it was really subtle so no one knew except me and then if somebody asked “I like your outfit, what are you trying to do?” and I would say “I’m trying to look like Peter Pan.” Try to find something you’re excited about. Not that I idealize certain people but I will be going through Instagram
Clyde (left) enjoys creating her own outfits and wearing clothes from an array of styles. KATHERINE CLYDE / COURTESY or Pinterest or watching a TV show and I’ll say, “Wow that girl’s outfit is super awesome.” So I won’t wear the exact outfit but I’ll pull things from it and be like I really like her shirt or I really liked this. I really let anything inspire me. TQ: Which thrift stores do you recommend? KC: Anything that’s cheap. I love Unique because it’s right there. At home, I go to Goodwill or Salvation Army. I like to go to different ones, like the Goodwill near my house, you have to wait a month before they really have new stuff. TQ: If you were given $1,000, what would you buy? KC: I try really hard to spend my money in places where I think it’s going to help.
I like 10,000 Villages and Fair Trade locations, or Goodwill and Salvation Army. TQ: What is your favorite piece of clothing? KC: Something that I was really impressed with myself with, as I like to think my clothes are well done, but when I finished this one I was like, “This is freaking, amazingly well done, I am very proud of myself” was this green dress that I saw something similar [to] in Macy’s. It’s a light green dress, it has turquoise and a faux collar, and then it’s kind of short with two blue turquoise stripes on the bottom, and all of the turquoise is the same material. Instead of sleeves it’s has turquoise edging. I was really proud of that.
Scatterbomb Holds Annual “English Night” __________________________ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 was by this giant bird. The audience was in shock and filled Hayden 100 with uproarious laughter. Scatterbomb took to the stage again, this time with Bueti carrying Donald in with handcuffs. Roney joined the scene as well. Donald was being arrested for messing with Goofy and Bueti and Roney were playing the cops. Donald kept spitting
in their eyes to keep them from questioning him. “I don’t know what kind of stuff you’re pulling off in Magic Kingdom, but this is Animal Kingdom baby, and we got saber-toothed tigers,” said Roney. Eventually the scene transforms into Walt Disney’s return from being cryogenically frozen for multiple years. Delaney, playing Disney, tries talking to Donald. Bueti and Roney attempt to pitch a song to Disney and Hanney, who came in to the in-
terrogation room as the Disney fact-checker, judges them for attempting to take advantage of a guy who was frozen for many years. “Well we pitched a live action movie about Donald the Duck before,” said Roney. They cut to the set of that movie, where Roney plays Jared Leto who is performing method acting as a duck. Everyone on set is getting annoyed with his approach and Donald suggests someone else to play the role of the duck, in-
cluding the Aflac duck. “Everything has been downhill since 30 Seconds to Mars broke up,” said Roney. The scene quickly crumbles into chaos as Roney has to attend tutoring sessions with the on-set tutor. He eventually gets fired as the scene changes. The show ended with a scene between Taylor and Hanney, where Hanney, as the husband, was expected to be doing things for his wife without being told to do so.
The scene takes a dark turn, as Donald and Bueti, playing cops, tell Hanney his wife has murdered fifteen people. “You gotta keep on top of that,” said Donald to Hanney. Donald ended the show by thanking O’Leary Cunningham and Marinaccio. The final show of the semester is scheduled for Dec. 7 in Hayden 100 and will have a holiday theme, with ugly sweaters encouraged.
Arts & Entertainment
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THE QUADRANGLE
MC Singers’ “Spectacular” Performance at Radio City Music Hall Gabriella DePinho Asst. News Editor
As the audience for the 11 a.m. performance of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular settled into their seats on Saturday, Nov. 17, Manhattan College’s Singers took the stage and sang for the crowd. Andy Bauer, director of performing arts at Manhattan College, had been approached by a representative for Radio City Music Hall at the end of the summer about having Manhattan College Singers do a prelude to one showing of the spectacular. “At first, I was a little surprised that Radio City Music Hall was contacting us because I hadn’t personally had contact with them - they reached out to us,” said Bauer. He continued. “They told me somebody who worked in their office had known about the music department at Manhattan College and had seen our concert of Lessons and Carols and felt that it would be a really good match of what they were looking for,” said Bauer. “They do this with some frequency where they have choirs from colleges, the community and some other organizations where they come in and perform a short prelude before the Christmas Spectacular and they thought Manhattan College would be a good fit for that so they personally invited us and we gladly accepted.” While Radio City reached
out, Bauer and members of Singers’ executive board had to help coordinate and make sure this happened. Seniors Erin Plitt, president of Singers, and Kelsey Sullivan, secretary of Singers, were the two students Bauer had helping him set up this performance. “So Kelsey and I were kind of the two people Andy delegated us to orchestrate being in contact with Radio City and working out the details and I remember it was all within about two hours, we did calls back and forth. Andy was calling to and from Student Engagement and literally in an hour or so, we knew this was something we were going to be doing our senior year and it was just insane, I was on such a high all day from experiencing that and having that news,” said Plitt. While Plitt and Sullivan were working to get the performance setup, Bauer got in touch with Student Engagement to see when the school intended to sell discounted tickets to the students. After he found out the day and time, Bauer asked his contacts at Radio City if the slot before the 11 a.m. show was available for Singers to do the prelude. The slot was available, so the Singers jumped on the chance to perform for an audience that contained some fellow Jaspers. Fortunately for Singers, almost everyone in the group was able to come. Radio City Music Hall has a 50 person limit on the stage, but Singers was able to squeeze 52. While
Plans for the performance at Radio City Music Hall were made in the summer, when Andy Bauer, director of performing arts, was approached by a representative from Radio City. MANHATTAN COLLEGE / COURTESY the club is actually comprised of more than 60 members, for various reasons those other members were unavailable for the performance, so no one had to be cut. After setting up the performance, Singers had to get to work to prepare for singing at Radio City. Bauer said, “There are two pieces that we’re singing at the Christmas Spectacular. One is “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and the other is “Carol of the Bells” and they’re both particular arrangements of these wellknown pieces and they’re acapella. One of the stipulations of Radio City is that it’s an acapella performance unaccompanied. It also has to be memorized we can’t bring any handheld
object or paper or anything on the stage. We don’t typically memorize music for Singers … so we have been rehearsing a bit differently.” For Singers, these arrangements and stipulations presented a new challenge in preparation for the performance. “It’s a lot of reminding all of Singers that this needs to be off-book and it’s not that they don’t want to but we just have to remind them… I think they challenge us,” said Audrey Sabatino, Singers vice president. Plitt concurred that the preparations posed some challenges from the group. “We’re not usually an acapella group so to really be able to get off book as well as be acapella is something we’re not
used to at all and it’s definitely been a challenge for us but I’m excited to see how it turns out, especially in the venue we’re performing at, you can hear every little detail,” Plitt said. “I’m excited and I’m sure we’ll do well but I’m excited to see where we are as a group, what can our sound be and where we can go from here as a group.” While this is a special occasion, for Singers, this is just another chance to show off the strength of their performance ability. “We’re working very hard to do our best, but we’re not working any harder for Radio City than for Lessons and Carols. We feel all our public performances must be at a very stellar level,” said Bauer.
“Amazing Fantastic Incredible: A Marvelous Memoir”: Looking into the Life of Stan Lee THE BOOK NOOK Haley Burnside Senior Writer
This past week, self-proclaimed comic book geeks around the world mourned together as the news of Stan Lee’s passing spread. Lee passed away at age 95 after a long and creative life that can only be described as marvelous. Stanley Martin Lieber was one of the most successful and well-known comic book writers. The New York City native got his start in the industry in 1939. He used the pen-name Stan Lee so that his professional reputation would never be tainted by the fact that he had once been a writer for silly comic books. He planned to write serious novels, but because of his immense talent and incomprabile imagination, he made a real name for himself in the industry. For the
rest of his life, he was known as Stan Lee. This origin story is one of the many anecdotes told by his memoir, “Amazing Fantastic Incredible: A Marvelous Memoir.” He worked alongside writer Peter David and illustrator Colleen Doran. Loyal to his roots, he chose the book to have the colorful and graphic layout signature of comic books. The memoir begins in his childhood in New York City during the Great Depression. It follows him through his first job with Timely Comics at the end of the 1930s, and it recounts his time serving in the Army during World War II where he was responsible for illustrating and writing the educational film materials for the troops. Though these portions may seem like enough to fill an entire book of their own, the story does not take off in full until it
reaches the beginning of his career at Marvel Comics, the company where he would be one of the most influential creators by the time of his death. While writing for classic characters like Captain America, Lee created some of Marvel’s most iconic new heroes. Spider-Man, Iron Man, the Black Panther, the Incredible Hulk, the Fantastic Four and the XMen are just a few of his most enduring creations. “Amazing Fantastic Incredible” then gives the behind the scenes view of the superhero comic book industry through its prosperous times (1970s), its difficulties with censorship (Comics Code Authority crackdown of the mid 1950s) and funny little stories in between. The memoir traces through Lee’s career as well as his personal life. The brilliantly-drawn illustrations help narrate the
sweet story of Lee’s fifty-year marriage to his wife Joan. While sharing the treasured insider information of the Marvel company, the book tells the stories that influenced the comics. The result is a memoir that is both entertaining and informative, and is enjoyable for those who are lifelong fans of Lee’s work as well as those who are just familiar with his iconic creations. It, like the man on which it focuses, truly lives up to its ambitious title. As the world mourns this legendary man, “Amazing Fantastic Incredible” serves as one of the many reminders that Lee not only lived a fulfilling, exciting life, but he provided generations of people around the globe with touches of excitement through glossy pages of comic books and the action on the big screen. Stan Lee truly was a New
Stan Lee’s Memoir. HALEY BURNSIDE / THE QUADRANGLE Yorker in every sense. To encapsulate the man, I would like to leave you with this iconic quote of his from an interview with “Playboy Magazine.” “You know, my motto is ‘Excelsior.’ That’s an old word that means ‘upward and onward to greater glory.’ It’s on the seal of the state of New York. Keep moving forward, and if it’s time to go, it’s time. Nothing lasts forever.”
Features
NOVEMBER 20, 2018
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Once a Student, Now a Teacher ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Brian Asare Staff Writer
Brandon Thomas graduated from Manhattan College in 2006, and majored in psychology with a minor in religious studies. Since graduating, he has worked in a number of high schools in New York as a counselor and college advisor. He has helped many students see the benefits of attending college and has helped students choose the college that will best suit them. Thomas has helped hundreds of students to achieve their goals and work towards their future profession. Quadrangle: After spending a tough four years in school, how did it feel finally graduating? Brandon Thomas: It was a great feeling. I was the first person in my family to attend and graduate from college so I looked at this moment as the
beginning of a different trend within my family. Graduation was also proof to myself that I could succeed at a high level. Q: What would you say were some special qualities that Manhattan College taught you that you use to this day in your life? BT: Manhattan’s Lasallian tradition motivated me to inspire students through education and compassion. At Manhattan I was encouraged to step out of my comfort zone and this is something I challenge my students to do on a daily basis. Q: Who would you say (if any) motivated you to do what you do in life that is/was a staff of Manhattan College? BT: I wouldn’t say that any particular individual motivated me to pursue my current career. However, I had professors that “fueled the fire”. Dr. McCausland and Dr. Bracchitta regularly pushed me to better whether it was through my in-
ternship or research projects. The two of them were instrumental in my Manhattan College experience. Q: What advice will you give current Manhattan students to help them stay on track to achieving their goals? BT: Understand that success is not a straight line, there will be twists and turns but stay on the road because the destination is worth the journey. I tell my students all the time, have fun in college. Yes, you should study hard but you have to be able to relax and have a good time. Balance is key. Brandon Thomas is just one of the many students that has had the privilege of passing through this prestigious institution and has gone on to spread the values he was taught to other students to help them make good decisions.
Brandon Thomas is a graduate from the class of 2006. He majored in psychology with a minor in religious studies while attending MC. BRANDON THOMAS / COURTESY
Jeovanna Badson on Becoming a U.S. Citizen PEOPLE OF MANHATTAN Megan Dreher Features Editor
Jeovanna Badson is a senior at Manhattan College majoring in biochemistry who recently became a United States citizen. The Quadrangle: What led up to you decision to becoming a citizen in the U.S.? Jeovanna Badson: My dad lives in Brooklyn, so that definitely influenced it. He’s been a citizen for almost 21 years. I am originally from Jamaica, but the main reason why I decided to become a citizen is that there are generally greater opportunities available as a citizen of the United States. TQ: What was the citizenship process like? JB: The process was super long and tedious. I started the process in 2014, but only officially became a citizen in August. There’s lots of money involved in the process too. Every time the government asks for a piece of documentation, you also have to send in a money order. TQ: What was the oath ceremony like? JB: The oath ceremony was a really interesting. First, you’re seated in this room where the officials will take your green card and make sure all of your information is correct. Then once they take your green card, you have to sign a
certificate and then wait for the actual ceremony to begin. They do multiple ceremonies per day so once the room is full, the officials will come in and do the oath. Basically, the oath is swearing that you’ll adhere to all of the duties of a United States citizen. TQ: How long have you known that you wanted to be a United States citizen? JB: When I was 16, I knew I wanted to dorm at college. I couldn’t dorm at the college in Jamaica because it was so close to home, so I decided to look internationally, especially since my father was already here. Manhattan was the school that gave me the most money, but I also looked and was interested in schools like USF (University of South Florida). TQ: What are your next steps after Manhattan? JB: I plan on going to graduate school. Currently, I’m in the process of applying and doing my GREs (Graduate Record Examinations). TQ: What have you noticed about American culture as an international student? JB: It was a culture shock for the first few weeks here at college. It’s a pretty big difference from home, especially the social life. But I’ve gotten used to it over the years. It’s a different experience from home, but overall I’ve had a lot of fun! TQ: Have you experienced
Badson has been a member of the Manhattan College Cheer team for four years now. She is originally from Jamaica, but gained citizenship in August 2018 after starting the process in 2014. JEOVANNA BADSON / COURTESY any difficulties during the citizenship process? JB: I actually had a problem when I travelled abroad with the cheer team to Ireland last December. When I landed in Dublin and went through customs, I was informed I couldn’t enter the country because I didn’t have a Visa. I was then given a Visa warning, meaning that next time I went to Ireland without a Visa, they would
put me on a plane back to the United States. I was able to go through, but it was still difficult because I wasn’t a U.S. citizen yet. I didn’t even think about it and that it would be an issue. TQ: What advice would you have for anyone else applying to be a United States citizen? Patience! Like I said, it’s a long and tedious process. Sometimes it’s tricky, especially if you run into any obstacles
with the government that stalls the process. But it was all worth it in the end. I plan on staying in the states for graduate school and then work, but then we’ll see where life takes me!
Sports
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THE QUADRANGLE
International Swimmers Leading the Swimming and Diving Teams Alexa Schmidt Asst. A&E Editor
The men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams at Manhattan College are almost halfway through their seasons. They’ve participated in weekly swim meets, either dual meets or inivationals, with a collective six team wins. Individual performances are tracked and can be followed throughout a season in a sport like swimming and diving. A common trend with MC swimming is the solid performances of their international studentathletes on the team which includes Sarah Hamilton, Andre Van Huyssteen, Branden Deiss and Artur Polyak. Hamilton is a freshman from Northland, New Zealand. So far this season she has finished first in the 200 freestyle, second in the 200 freestyle and 1000 freestyle, third in the 200 IM, 400 IM, and 500 freestyle (twice) and fourth in the 200 IM. Huyssteen is a sophomore from Paarl, South Africa who picked up where he left off last season. So far this season he has already taken home gold in the 50 freestyle (three times), 100 freestyle, 200 freestyle (three times) and 100 Fly (twice). Deiss is a freshman from Benoni, South Africa. So far he has finished first in the 100 freestyle, 500 freestyle (twice) and 1000 freestyle. He also had two second-place finishes apiece for the 500 and 1000 freestyles. Finally to round out the four, is sophomore Polyak from Haifa, Israel. He has finished first in the 100 backstroke (four times), 200 backstroke (twice), and 200 Fly. He also had a second place finish in the 200 IM. Diess and Hamilton are the two freshman of this group. Being freshmen, they have managed to balance practices, meets, workouts, classes and
schoolwork while adjusting to life in New York City all for the first time. These two engineering majors started swimming at a young age. “It started when I was about 10 years old, and when I got to high school I started taking it more seriously,” Deiss said. “I joined a club and started training with the coach for seven years before coming here, so it all just grew. I didn’t say, ‘Okay I want to be a swimmer now.’ I did it for a little bit and then did it more and more.” Hamilton’s location to water played a part in what she does collegiately right now. “Theres’s beaches everywhere, and I used to surf when I was little, so I kind of just got used to swimming, like in the ocean. I’ve been doing it ever since I was little,” Hamilton said. One of the main differences between MC and their home is that they have the opportunity to be student-athletes in college. “At home, university is completely different, sports aren’t associated with colleges so it has to be on your own time through a club,” Hamilton said. “There’s no such thing as a student-athlete, which was kind of one of my big reasons for coming to Manhattan College. Coming here where it’s all integrated is pretty amazing.” They both agree that the city is different than their home, especially with the changing seasons. “It was an adjustment at first, especially coming from a more open environment, to more closed-in with the buildings, and the weather,” Deiss said. “That’s a bit different. But so far it’s going well, I’ve made some good friends.” “I love it here. The swim team is amazing. I don’t get homesick because they’re like my family,” Hamilton added. Deiss swims distance, free-
style and relay races, while Hamilton is testing a few events at the moment, including distance, freestyle, breaststroke and relays. The team practices at Fieldston up the road, with mornings at 6:00 a.m. until 7:30 a.m. and nights from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., as well as midday lifts and dry land practices. “It’s great training with people who also want to take something far and to see how well they can do, and to push each other and to build that relationship inside the pool as well as the classroom. It’s been great,” Deiss said. Deiss noted that it’s more fun to swim with a couple of other teams and gain points, than swim against a large amount of teams. He also pointed out that swimming is based on teamwork. “A lot of people think swimming is an individual sport, but if you train alone verus when you train with a team, you may not be talking with your team the whole time but you’re going through the same things, so you know what they’re going through and you see them pushing so it pushes you,” Deiss said. He continued. “Also outside of the team you’re always cheering for your team at meets or during the session. You see someone struggling, you encourage them more. If you see someone slacking you tell them to pick it up. You don’t get to speak as much as a field sport, but you’re still communicating and it’s still very much a team sport,” Deiss said. “The team has done really well this year. Looking at results from last year there’s been a big improvement,” Hamilton said. “We have ECAC, East Coast Athletic Conference, so that’s going to be our first actual measure of time, so we’re really excited for that.”
(TOP LEFT) Sarah Hamilton, a freshman from Northland, New Zealand. (TOP RIGHT) Andre Van Huyssteen, a sophomore from Paarl, South Africa. (BOTTOM LEFT) Branden Deiss, a freshman from Benoni, South Africa. (BOTTOM RIGHT) Artur Polyak, a sophomore from Haifa, Israel. GOJASPERS / COURTESY
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Sports
NOVEMBER 20, 2018
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Jaspers Drop Third Straight Game with Lopsided Loss to Stony Brook WBB: SB 79, MAN 48 Pete Janny Staff Writer
The Manhattan College women’s basketball team looked to snap their two-game skid when they hosted the Stony Brook University Seawolves on the afternoon of Saturday, Nov. 17th. The matchup marked the sixth ever between the two programs with the Seawolves having won last season’s matchup 74-59 on Long Island. Entering Saturday’s tilt, the Jaspers held a 3-2 advantage in the all-time series. Right from the get-go, Stony Brook looked like the hungrier side as they jumped out to an early 8-2 lead. Fifthyear graduate transfer Candela Abejon and sophomore guard Lizahya Morgan responded with consecutive three balls to help Manhattan tie the score at 8-8. However, Stony Brook answered with six straight points to procure a lead that would never be relinquished. Manhattan’s second quarter was particularly troubling as the team shot 2-of-10 from the field and were outscored 27-8. The Jaspers found themselves facing a 43-17 deficit by the time the first half had con-
cluded. “We got punched in the face in the first half,” said Manhattan head coach Heather Vulin. “I challenged them at halftime to respect your home court and your fans. You might’ve had a bad first half but now you had to use that as motivation to make sure we have a better second half.” The Jaspers showed signs of life in the third quarter with their solid play translating into an 18-18 scoreline for the quarter. Ultimately, Manhattan was unable to overcome their anemic first half performance and fell to the Seawolves by a score of 79-48. Stony Brook senior guard Shania Johnson did her part to sink the Jaspers as she tallied 23 points, seven assists and six rebounds. “We had a gameplan to try to contain Johnson but to her credit she had an excellent game and was able to lead her team to victory,” said Vulin. “I’m disappointed in terms of how we didn’t put our gameplan into effect, but that’s something we’ll continue to work on in practice.” Stony Brook took full advantage of the plethora of Manhattan miscues as they scored 26 points alone on Manhattan turnovers. The Jaspers fin-
Freshman D’Yona Davis scored a career-high 18 points against Stony Brook on Nov. 17. GOJASPERS / COURTESY ished with 21 turnovers when it was all said and done. Vulin believed her team’s turnover number was merely a bump in the road for her young team. “Since we have a young team and it’s early in the season, I am playing a lot of different players just to see what I’m getting from them,” said Vulin. “Twenty-one turnovers isn’t who we are and it’s not what we are about so I think it’s more of just a bump in the road today.”
Manhattan freshman guard D’Yona Davis’s second half offensive outburst was the lone bright spot in a day to forget for the Jaspers. Davis finished with 18 points; 15 of them coming in the second half alone. Vulin was pleased with the maturity Davis showed as the game progressed. “We moved her over to the point guard so she was able to have the ball in her hands which is something that she
likes to do,” said Vulin. “She’s a talented scorer and when she makes a couple she’ll probably make four or five in a row.” The Jaspers will return to action on Saturday, Nov. 24 when they host the University of Detroit Mercy for a 2:00 p.m. start at Draddy Gymnasium.
Men’s Club Rowing Fall 2018 Season in Review Richard Gerling Contributor
Finishing the fall 2018 season, the Manhattan College men’s club rowing team looks forward to the spring season. This year, there were a lot of new rowers, meaning that they started from the ground up in terms of preparation. With this in mind, this next season looks to be stronger as they continue to grow and develop as rowers. This season, the team raced at the Head of the Schuylkill Regatta in Philadelphia, Pa. and at the Bill Braxton Regatta in Camden, N.J. Both the College Freshman/Novice 8 and a Men’s Club Championship 8 raced. The coach of the team, Karla Ward, praised the team’s improvements. “The team has made great strides since day one,” said Ward. “It was great to see families at the local venue supporting their sons; many of whom are first-year rowers.” Senior history major Vincent Wiedemann joined the team as a freshman and is the only returning member from
the previous coach. He described the growing pains that occurred at the beginning of the season that accompanied the first-time rowers. “I think it started off kind of tough,” said Wiedemann. “Last year was the first we revamped the whole program, so I’m the only kid from before the new coaching. There were a lot of novices this year, so you have to practice with kids that don’t know what they’re doing yet, so there was a lot of development in the beginning.” However, as the season progressed, he began to see the fruit of their labor. “I was actually pretty happy to see the progression from where we started to where we are now,” Wiedemann continued. “Obviously, there’s more work to be done, but the novices this year are doing a lot better than the ones last year because they’re really into it.” Junior communication major Topher Nuzzo joined the team in the fall. “I think that there were a lot of new people on the team this year so it was rough starting off, but I think we pulled through and we’re starting to trust ourselves as a team, and
while we might not have necessarily did the best that we could have, over time we are going to be able to develop,” Nuzzo said. As there are many new rowers on the team, the fall season is primarily focused on advancing the novice rowers and getting them to a place where they can race at practice. The strategy this season was to gain as much racing experience as they can. “The strength of this year’s team is the recruitment of upperclassmen,” said Ward. “The potential of this group is tremendous. I think they will surprise themselves come spring and the next few years. If they trust the process and fully commit to one another, success will come.” Until the spring season, the team is focusing on conditioning rather than rowing. There are about two weeks left for morning workouts. “After Thanksgiving, we’re going to have practice every morning during the week at 5:00 a.m. for conditioning,” Wiedemann said. In the spring season, the team looks to come with an even stronger showing. “We have a lot of time to
The team practicing with ergometers in Draddy Gymnasium. MANHATTAN COLLEGE CREW FACEBOOK / COURTESY prepare for [next season] and we’re only growing stronger as a team every day, so I have no doubt that we’ll be able to pull through with quite a few wins,” said Nuzzo. In the spring semester, the team is looking to compete in four indoor races and four outdoor races, one being in Florida. The team will be traveling to Tampa, Fla. for spring break to compete in a regatta, as well as do some training in Wellington, Fla. like they did during spring break of 2018. “We are going to be able
to do a lot of things that we don’t normally do on the water, which will definitely help us get better as a team,” Nuzzo said. “I think that will be a great experience since we’ll get to race against teams that we don’t normally race against in this area.” Wiedemann concluded with his thoughts on the team’s success and outlook for the spring season. “I’m excited to see where we’re going this year. In a couple of years, we might be able to see some good results.”
Sports
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THE QUADRANGLE
Expanding Passions: The Man Who Won’t Stop Michevi Dufflart Web Editor
For some, running is just a pastime, but for J. Matthew Billings, a graduate student studying civil engineering, it is much more than that. An avid runner and strong supporter of cancer research, Billings is no stranger to long distance races. During his undergraduate years at Christian Brothers University, Billings ran cross country and also participated in the St. Jude Memphis Marathon about seven-toeight times. While marathons can vary in length, they are no small feat and require months of preparation. However, no marathon mileage compares to the over 4,000 miles Billings and 20 other runners ran this past summer to raise money and awareness for cancer research. Through the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults, 21 college-aged runners, including Billings, participated in a 49-day run which began in mid June in San Francisco, Calif. and ended in New York City, N.Y. in early August. Together, these 21 strangers embarked on a journey across the country and experienced some highs and lows, met some inspiring people, visited a number of cities and towns, and lived humbly through the generosity of others. Each morning, all the runners would wake up at 4:30 a.m. and begin the day. Billings explained that all the runners were split between two vans each day. “The first van [had runners] that would wake up and immediately start running and then the second van would drive to the halfway point [and those runners would run] from the halfway point to wherever we slept for the evening,” said Billings. The group of runners who began at 4:30 a.m. would typically finish around 2:00 p.m. and the second set of runners who started at the halfway point would typically finish around 3:00 p.m. or 4:00 p.m. Although these hours were long, the runs were completed
in relay style, allowing Billings and each of his teammates a short period of time to rest. Billings explained, “If it was me and you in the same van I would get out, and let’s say I had five miles for this stretch of leg, I would run five miles and the van would drive up five miles and meet me and then you would hop out and run five miles and then I would hop in the van and we’d drive up. So it was like playing leapfrog with the van.” Billings and his teammates could each run anywhere between 10 to 30 miles per day, even when the weather was not in their favor. On hot and humid days, they would typically take water breaks every mile in order to prevent dehydration. Billings also mentioned that they would place wet towels near the air conditioning in the van and use those to keep cool in the 90-degree weather. However, weather was not the only thing these runners endured. Emily Guth, a senior exercise science major studying at Brooklyn College was one of the other 20 runners who journeyed across the country this past summer. For her one of the difficulties she faced was being away from home. “Forty-nine days is a long time to be away and constantly changing location,” said Guth. Billings also faced several challenges himself including running into barbed wire and receiving 22 stitches in each thigh. Despite this, Billings continued to run less than 12 hours later and made it to the top of the Rocky Mountains the next day. “Matt is a risk-taker, but in the best way possible,” said Guth. “Meaning, he gives 110% of himself to every situation he is in, whether 110% is the right amount to give or not. He doesn’t back down from a challenge and he finishes everything he starts. He cares about the well-being of his teammates and uses his whole heart to support them.” Leon Wu, a junior computer science major at MC who met Billings in the library one night and offered him cold pizza
Billings (right of sign) and several of his teammates at the top of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. J. MATTHEW BILLINGS / COURTESY
Billings someday hopes to run in the Berlin Marathon in Germany. J. MATTHEW BILLINGS / COURTESY in exchange for some tutoring in one of his courses, also expressed similar sentiments about Billings. “Although he got injured … he still persevered, and that speaks volumes on his character,” said Wu. As these 21 runners made their way across the country, they also dedicated some of their time to visiting cancer centers and cancer research hospitals. One story that struck Billings in particular during one of his visits was about a 17-year-old girl fighting cancer in Utah. The girl, who was about to graduate high school and had received a $3,000 scholarship from the Ulman Cancer Fund, was engaged to another patient going through the same battle. “[The girl and her significant other] didn’t know if they were going to have any other time or opportunity to express their love for each other unless they got married,” said Billings. With this, the runners were able to hear some unique stories from those they were supporting. Seeing the patients fight through their battles also gave Billings and his teammates hope. While there, the patients expressed that what Billings and his teammates were doing was the hard part, and that they, as in the patients, had it easy. Billings emphasized how this was one of the things that stuck with him the most from the visit. Yet cancer patients were not the only people these runners met along the way. Often times they would meet people who would ask them what they were doing and why they were doing it. Their answers shocked and amazed people. So much so that Billings and his teammates were able to raise about $5,000 from road donations alone. This goes to show that the kindness of strangers can go a long way. Aside from visiting cancer centers and running, these group of teammates also spent time walking through cities and
towns when the day was over. Sometimes they would even find a creek or a river and sit in it to enjoy the feeling of the water around them. Throughout their 49-day excursion, Billings and his teammates also frequented locations that sold an iconic summer treat. “We all had a goal of eating ice cream in every major city we went to, and it wouldn’t be like ‘Let’s go to the Dairy Cream,’ [it would be more like] let’s go to the local ice cream store.” For Billings, some of the best homemade ice cream came from Ann Arbor, Mich. In the end, the 21 runners ended up raising over $900,000, and making some great friends along the way. “It was interesting, because here we are, a group of strangers, now basically living in a van together 24/7. We all had a pretty instant connection though, bonded by a common goal, and by the end it was like we had known each other for years, not just seven weeks,” said Guth. Yet Billings’ journey did not stop there. Since then, he has also been involved in several other runs and marathons such as the New Jersey Marathon, where he ran a 2:43 and the TCS New York City Marathon where he ran a 2:58, finishing in the top 2% of runners. In April, Billings plans to run in the Boston Marathon for the first time. He is currently running about 20 miles a day in preparation for this event. Billings also has goals of competing in the Beaverhead 100K, a 62-mile mountain race that happens in rugged and varied terrain of Idaho and Montana. “[Matt] is very hard on himself when it comes to competing, which is a necessary trait in order for athletes to surpass their mind restrictions and discovering that no human is limited,” says Wu. Billings hopes to use the Beaverhead 100K to qualify for Western States, a 100-mile
endurance run. For an understanding of how long each of these races may take, Billings believes he can complete the Beaverhead 100K in about 9 to 11 hours and the Western States in about 18 hours. Additionally, Billings would some day like to run in the Berlin Marathon, which he calls the fastest race in the world, because it is mostly downhill. Billings looks forward to a race like this because the weather is usually just right. However, for Billings the most surprising thing he noticed this past summer, is what he calls, the resilience of the human spirit. “Seeing the resilience of all my teammates kind of helped me continue that trip even after I got my stitches and when I got a concussion,” said Billings. “I wanted to give up but watching my teammates go out there every single day is what kept me out there as well.” Over the past six years Billings has raised over $1,000,000 alone for cancer research by applying his passion for running and translating it into something good for the community. He encourages others to seek out their passions and incorporate them in a way that makes them excited to give back as well. Caroline Shea, a junior political science major, has come to know Billings through working with him in the Residence Life Office and only had good things to say about him. “...Running is more than just exercise for him,” said Shea. “It is truly awe-inspiring to hear him speak with such love and passion and how he has taken his passion for running and used it to give back to people.” Billings will graduate in May with a master’s degree in civil engineering. From there he then hopes to go on to work in his field, while continuing to run until he one day retires and uses his experience to teach in the classroom.