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OFFICIAL STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF HUDSON VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE Thehudsonian.org
Volume 69, Issue 3
Feburary 2nd, 2016
Student with Aspergers aspires to be ‘more than just an ordinary student’ By: Matt Whalen Editor-in-Chief Having a disability can deflate a person’s confidence going into college, but Elijah Hummel has looked past his disability to make the best out of being at Hudson Valley. “I’ve been told that despite how tough things may be or how difficult a challenge you might face, things will be okay,” said Hummel. “You will be able to get over that hill at some point,” he said.
An individual studies Major, Hummel suffers from Asperger’s Syndrome, which is a type of autism. “I was diagnosed with it many years ago and I didn’t even know at the time,” said Hummel. Coming to Hudson Valley was a choice Hummel made after people let him know what opportunities could be provided for him. “When I first started off as a student, I made everyday an adventure taking classes that were very challenging,” said Hummel. “It’s been a blast from there,” he said. Entering Hudson Valley was
scary for Hummel given that he was previously bullied and ridiculed for his disability. “I was scared of what the people might think of me here, and if I would be able to fit in,” said Hummel. Being a college student with a disability, Hummel struggles in certain areas. “I struggle when it comes to academics, depending on what the subject might be,” said Hummel. “I am very good with projects, homework and my attendance is perfect,” he said. SEE HUMMEL PAGE 8
Marison Topinio | THE HUDSONIAN Elijah Hummel sits down in the Marvin Library around 9 a.m.
STUDENT HOUSING DEVELOPER DETERMINED United Group to build 268-bed dorm by 2017
The new student housing complex as seen below will take place of the current and abandoned Hy Rosenblum Administration Building.
By: Tyler McNeil Managing Editor
1 Construction on the 41-acre site is expected to be completed by June 1, 2017. 2 The property was sold to the United group for $268,000.
3 Plans call for a four-story residence with 72 fully furnished apartments holding in total 268 beds.
Courtesy of ugoc.com
4 The new housing complex will include 24-hour security, a fitness center, great room, laundry, bike storage, cable and internet.
5 More than 200 parking spaces adjacent to the building will be available to residents.
The company plans to work with LeChase Construction Services based in Rochester and Architecture+ located in Troy.
ILLUSTRATION BY MATT WHALEN | THE HUDSONIAN
“ASAP,” responded President Drew Matonak after a college trustee member asked for the groundbreaking date of student housing construction at their monthly meeting last week. Later in the meeting, the Board of Trustees unanimously voted to sell the Hy Rosenblum Administration Building property to the United Group over competing bidder Hudson Valley Stargreen. “I think the college and the committee really agree that we really do have an important interest in making sure that this place is managed and that we demonstrate to the public that we really were diligent to make sure this is properly managed,” said Scott Ely, attorney for the college. The decision needs to be approved by the county legislature. The United Group, lead by Michael Uccellini, submitted a $268,000 bid to acquire the property, according to their request-for-proposal response submitted last November. Hudson Valley Stargreen was outbidded by $42,000. Demolition is expected to cost over $1 million. In the event that the United Group is able to save money on demolition costs, the site’s cost would increase up to a maximum of $482,000. Before the United Group obtained approval from the Board of Trustees, both bidders went through a nearly two-month review process from the college. The bid was originally scheduled to be awarded in mid-December, but was delayed. According to Ely, the college moved towards approving the United Group partially due to their experience developing student housing and regional partnerships. “[Hudson Valley Stargreen] is outsourcing from out-of-state, and they don’t have half the experience, or even a quarter of the experience, that the Uccellini Group has,” said Ely. In order to build the site, the United Group is expected to coordinate the project with Architecture Plus and LeChase Construction Services of Rochester. “Student housing is very a tough, very marginal class of business. You have to know what you’re doing,” said William F. Fagan, college trustee. The United Group hopes to erect a four-story, 72-apartment building within one phase. SEE HOUSING PAGE 2
Inside News
Inside Features
Inside Sports
Eating Disorders
Student music survey
Nationals
Project Aware promotes awareness.
Campus majority listens to rap. Page 4
Page 6
Ice Hockey headed back to nationals after big weekend. Page 12
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February 2nd, 2016
NEWS
The Hudsonian Hudson Valley Community College 80 Vandenburgh Ave. Troy, NY 12180 Phone: 518-629-7568 Email: hudsonian@hvcc.edu Editor-in-Chief Matt Whalen
Community Sports Day brings students and spectators together By: Rebecca Jordan News Editor
Managing Editor Tyler McNeil Business Manager Durgin McCue News Editor Rebecca Jordan Creative Editor Jenny Caulfield Sports Editor John C. Longton III Photo Editor Marison Topinio Copy Editor Dae-Jin Yuk Staff Writers Chris Payne Ethan Fobare Evette Linendoll Oksana Pawlush Samantha Longton Shakeema Hill Sophia Jamil
Fans were able to enjoy food and a variety of sporting events during the fifth annual Community Sports Day Saturday afternoon. “Community Sports Day is a way for the college to get more fans to the sports games and show some pride for our teams,” said Dennis Kennedy, director of communications and marketing. The triple-header started off with the women’s basketball team
playing the Schenectady County Community College Royals. After the women’s game, the men’s basketball team faced SCCC as well, and ice hockey had a game against Broome Community College. The Vikings cheerleaders and mascots were energetic supporters for the matches. Community members and students alike were invited to cheer on Hudson Valley athletics, enjoy free subs, wraps, chips and drinks at lunchtime, and participate in giveaways. During the halftimes at both the men’s and women’s basketball games,
fans had the chance to win $250 to spend at the Viking’s Cove Bookstore by making a half-court shot. Contestants came close, but no one ended up taking home the prize. The athletic department partnered with the Student Senate to sponsor the event. Kennedy believes that the event is a great way to get the college’s name out in the community. “It raises awareness about our programs and gets people in the community out to see the games at the college.”
Calendar of Events February
Wed 3
American Red Cross Blood Drive 9:00 am – 3:00 pm Siek Campus Center, second floor
Part-time Job Fair 10:00 am – 1:00 pm Siek Campus Center, First Floor Lobby
Intramural Sports: Reaction Ball Grab 12:00 pm – 12:50 pm In the Siek Campus Center
Staff Photographers Mikey Bryant Stephanie Saddlemire Faculty Adviser Rachel Bornn
Thu 4
Letters to the Editor Letters can be delivered to CTR 291 or emailed to hudsonian@hvcc. edu. Readers may have their letters published anonymously as long as their identity can be verified. Letters will be edited for grammar, style, libel and length. Editorial Policy All views expressed in this paper are those of the author, and not necessarily those of the The Hudsonian or the College. The Hudsonian is the exclusive student newspaper of Hudson Valley Community College. It is published every week. To join The Hudsonian, attend our weekly meeting on Mondays at 2 p.m. in ADM 107.
Weather
TUESDAY High/Low 43/33 WEDNESDAY High/Low 56/42
Part-time Job Fair 10:00 am – 1:00 pm Siek Campus Center, First Floor Lobby
Mikey Bryant | THE HUDSONIAN In the middle of the action on Community Sports Day, spectators load up their plates.
FROM PAGE 1
HOUSING “ASAP,” responded President Drew Matonak after a college trustee member asked for the groundbreaking date of student housing construction at their monthly meeting last week. Later in the meeting, the Board of Trustees unanimously voted to sell the Hy Rosenblum Administration Building property to the United Group over competing bidder Hudson
Valley Stargreen. “I think the college and the committee really agree that we really do have an important interest in making sure that this place is managed and that we demonstrate to the public that we really were diligent to make sure this is properly managed,” said Scott Ely, attorney for the college. The decision needs to be approved by the county legislature. The United Group, lead by Michael Uccellini, submitted a $268,000 bid to acquire the property, according to their
request-for-proposal response submitted last November. Hudson Valley Stargreen was outbidded by $42,000. Demolition is expected to cost over $1 million. In the event that the United Group is able to save money on demolition costs, the site’s cost would increase up to a maximum of $482,000. Before the United Group obtained approval from the Board of Trustees, both bidders went through a nearly two-month review process from the college. The bid was originally scheduled to be awarded in mid-December,
THURSDAY
Meditation Thursdays 10:00 am – 10:30 am Siek Campus Center, Suite 270
Mon 8
All College Meeting 2:00 pm - 3:00pm
LEAD@HVCC: Dining Etiquette 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm Siek Campus Center, Room 150
NYS Poetry Out Loud Regional Competition 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Bulmer Telecommunications Center Auditorium
High/Low 44/28 FRIDAY High/Low 38/27 SATURDAY High/Low 45/30 SUNDAY
Tyler McNeil | THE HUDSONIAN Scott Ely, Attorney for the college, speaks in front of the Board of Trustees about approving the United Group to develop student housing.
High/Low 36/23
HUDSONIAN.ORG
The Hudsonian’s next publication will be Tuesday February 9th.
February 2nd, 2016
NEWS
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$72,000 saved this year due to lack of snow By: Oksana Pawlush Staff Writer Winter normally comes with poor weather conditions, no parking spots and dashing across campus in temperatures 20 degrees below zero. This winter has been one of the warmest winters on record, with students and faculty celebrating. The lack of snowfall this winter helped the college with a large sum of money, as the college spent almost $95,000 last year on snow. They spent $45,000
on external plow contracts and $50, 000 on salt and ice melt this time last year. So far this year, the college has only spent $23,000 on salt and ice melt. Dennis Kennedy, director of communications and marketing, says that the lack of snowfall has helped to prevent interruptions in courses and scheduling at the college. “The college didn’t have to pay for overtime expenses for employees who are brought in to plow and clear walkways, or suffer a loss of money from interrupted sponsored campus events due to
cancellations,” said Kennedy. Hudson Valley students also suffered from the winter weather last year. Multiple students mentioned constant unplowed parking lots and snowy sidewalks. Students had to juggle coming to school in bad weather to attend class, or staying home where it was safe and warm. This led to students playing the catch-up game in classwork after cancellations or college closings. Computer information systems major Andy Seay recalls having to battle the weather last year during his commute
BY THE NUMBERS
to school. “In order to hit the interstate, I had to go down a rather steep hill, so there was always a bit of terror when it was icy out,” said Seay. “You were always afraid that you couldn’t make it up the hill and then you’d slide back down into oncoming traffic,” he said. With only a few snowfalls here and there, the students and faculty haven’t had to deal with the headache of canceled classes, hard commutes and bitterly cold temperatures. The college has also been saved from another costly winter.
2015-16 WINTER
20 below zero
15 degrees
Temperatures last year hit as much as below zero which led to a substantial amount of ice.
The average low temperature in the Capital Region this past January.
$45,000
2.6 inches
The amount spent last winter on external snow plow contracts.
The average snow fall around the Capital Region in the past month.
$50,000
2014-15 WINTER
$23,000
The amount spent on salt and ice melts last year.
The amount spent on salt and ice melt so far this year.
$95,000
$72,000
The total estimated amount spent last year on snow and ice removal at Hudson Valley.
The amount saved at Hudson Valley this year from last year.
ILLUSTRATION BY MATT WHALEN | THE HUDSONIAN
Employers regionwide to fill McDonough By: Rebecca Jordan News Editor The part-time job fair being held on Feb. 3 and 4 offers students a variety of job openings to fit nearly any degree program while allowing students to earn some cash and experience. “I think it’s very important for students to attend [the job fair], even if they’re not necessarily looking for a job. It’s a great way to network and experience making that connection with an employer as a kind of practice,” said Gayle Healy, director of the Center for Careers and Transfer. The first floor of the Campus Center will host 67 employers over the course of the two days according to last week’s employer directory. Different organizations will be attending each day offering over 150 positions to students. “I think we have a good representation of jobs,” said Healy. Employers and positions range from cat sitting with Twenty Toes Cat Sitting to working as a teleprompter operator with WNYT-TV. If students are interested in working parttime with children, they can stop at the Mad Science of the Capital District table to get information about becoming an after school enrichment programs science instructor. For those who are more attracted to jobs involving outdoor physical activity, the YMCA Camp Chingachgook program is looking for a challenge course specialist.
In April, the college will also be holding a Without the job fair, Valyou said she would fulltime job fair on April 5 for both the public have had to go business-to-business with her and any interested students. “The full-time job résumé. fair is bigger, and we host it in McDonough,” Healy also pointed out that students can Healy said. “We try to give it a more get a head start on the real-world application professional vibe because it’s for professional of their degrees by holding a job. “Pioneer employment.” According to Healy, it’s usually Bank is hiring for a teller. If you’re in a business harder to get students at the fulltime fair program, that’s a great way to get experience in because McDonough is rather out-of-the-way your field without even having a degree,” she and isn’t as obvious for students. said. Though the part-time fair is better“It’s not like applying for a job online; it attended than the full-time according to gives the student and employer the opportunity Healy, the Center for Careers and Transfer to actually make that first connection face-tohas no way of tracking the number of students face, which is important,” Healy said. who attended any of the past job fairs, nor do they have numbers on how many students are offered and have accepted jobs. Amy Valyou is an architecture student who was given a job at the JC Penney portrait studio as a photographer as a result of a college job fair last semester. “[The job fair] was a big convenience because [the employers] were all looking for people Photo from Hudsonian Archive and they were eager to hire people on- Student passes by Monolith Solar at last year’s part-time job fair in the the-spot,” she said. first floor of the Campus Center.
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Renamed department looks to get more than ‘physical’ By: Rebecca Jordan News Editor The Physical Education Department will have two new degree programs to offer students come fall 2016 and a new name to usher in the change. “For years, we only had [the physical education] track,” said Eric Bryant, assistant director of communications and marketing. “The last couple of years, the college and the department especially have realized that we can create more specific transfer pathways for people who want to get to these other careers that are fitness-related, but that aren’t only being a gym teacher.” Those “specific pathways” now include a Health and Wellness A.S. and an Exercise Studies A.S. degree under the health, physical education, and exercise studies department, previously the physical education department. The college continues to offer its associate degree in Physical Education Studies, which provides the first two years of a four-year bachelor’s degree program for students interested in becoming primary and secondary school physical education instructors. In addition, there are three certificate programs under the physical education umbrella – coaching, fitness specialist and worksite health promotion.
FALL 2016
Registration for new program opens According to Colleen Ferris, health, physical education, and exercise studies department chair, “Before this Health and Wellness degree, we could tell students, alright, we can manipulate our current phys ed program and kind of get you where you want to be. Now, we can have our students a little more specialized and get them even more health, wellness and nutrition courses that they really kind of need to be in a better position to transfer.” The Health and Wellness B.S. degree at Buffalo State College and the Health Education and Community Health B.S. degree programs at SUNY Cortland have both recognized the new degree at Hudson Valley and have established transfer agreements for students looking to obtain four-year degrees. Students will be able to register for this new program when registration opens for the fall 2016 semester. Current students in the physical education program who wish to pursue the health and wellness degree have the option to transfer into the major.
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February 2nd, 2016
NEWS
Project Aware raises eating disorder awareness By: Shakeema Hill Staff Writer Some students on campus may not have personal experience with eating disorders, but are still empathetic to the disorders’ severity. The month of February is Eating Disorders Awareness Month, and Hudson Valley already has things planned to inform students. Project Aware will be having a table on the first floor of the campus center to provide information about the disorder. Larry Ellis, Human Services, feels that getting information out about serious matters works best when it is student-run as opposed to run by educators. Apart from the table, there will be students walking around the campus center handing out eating disorder information to students. On Feb. 9 at 10 a.m., there will be a presentation about
healthy eating choices students can attend to learn more about the disorder. “I would like all students to be aware of eating disorders from both sides,” said Ellis. Ellis wants students to understand the importance of eating disorders for males, as well as females. “We just want to give more up to date information and get more students involved and aware,” he said. Carolyne Deitz, a digital media major, was one of many students unaware of February being eating disorder awareness month. “I think eating disorders are still misunderstood by a lot of people,” said Deitz. “People should know how they can affect those who suffer from [eating disorders], as well as how it affects those who are close with victims,” she said. Deitz believes that education is key for those who are suffering with eating disorders, and recommends having guest speakers to talk
about research or telling survivor stories to raise student awareness. “I don’t know how it feels to have a eating disorder because I have not experienced it,” said human services major Dennis Dominguez. Although he has no personal experience with the disorder, he does understand the severity of it. “People who have this issue with their body get depressed with the way their body looks,” said Dominguez. “It becomes an unhealthy and hard to break the cycle,” he said. Amanda Robles, a biological sciences major, thinks the month of awareness will be very positive for students. “We should educate students on the disorder--what signs to look for if an individual is suspected of having this disorder, and the options to help them overcome and get the help they need,” said Robles.
Finding alternate routes to Hudson Valley By: Chris Payne Staff Writer Getting to Hudson Valley every day is a frequent concern for students during the Spring semester. “It’s hard to get to school from [home],” said Rebecca Olsona, a student commuter from Berlin. Olsona finds that her 30 minute trip from Berlin in snow and ice make her travel to the college more difficult. “When it does snow, the roads typically are not plowed,” said Olsen. Rebecca Olsona is one of many students enjoying the winter driving conditions so far. “I like this year so much because there is no snow,” said business major Collin Eastin. “I like it not snowing,” said business student Anthony Wasiyo. With many of Hudson Valley students being daily commuters, it is important to know alternate routes to the college during the unpredictable patterns of winter. Commuting South For students commuting from the southern area, first, take the I-87 or the New York State Thruway to exit 21 B. Continue onto exit 21 B for approximately 11 miles, and proceed onto exit B1 (I-90 West/ Route 9) for approximately 5.5 miles on I-90 West. Get off at exit 11, and take a right onto Route 9 South & Route 20 East. Take route 150 north for over 12.4 miles, and make a final left onto route 136 west. Commuting East For students coming from the east, start by taking I-90 west to exit B3 (Route 22).Take a right off of the exit for route 22 north for approximately 14 miles. Take a left onto route 43 heading west for approximately 12 miles, and stay straight on route 66 north for 6.5 miles.
Take a final left on route 150 for approximately ¼ mile. Commuting West Take I-90 east to exit 24 off of the State Thruway, and take exit 1N off I-90 to I-87 North. After seven miles, follow route 7 east for approximately five miles. Make a right turn onto 15th Street in Troy. If you do not see a McDonald’s on the corner of the street, you have gone the wrong way. From there, take 15th street to route 2 east. Follow route 2 east for ¼ mile to route 66 south. Take route 66 south for approximately 2 miles, and then turn right onto Winter Street. Keep on Winter Street for approximately 1 ¼ mile. Commuting North For students coming from the north, head onto I-87 to exit 7 (Route 7 east). From here, follow the same route as described for commuting west. Commuting Northeast Start on route 22 south and continue onto route 7 west. Take a left onto route 22 south, and continue on route 22 south for approximately 7½ miles. Make a right turn onto route 2 heading west for approximately 11½ miles. Continue on route 2 heading west, and make a left on Blue Factory Hill Road. Make a right onto Plank Road, and continue onto Route 355 heading west. Take Route 66 off of route 355 heading north for ¼ mile. Be prepared to make a left onto route 150, and continue on 150 until you see route 136.
Tyler McNeil | THE HUDSONIAN Student workers Helen Schneider (left) and Morgan Kunz (right) greet a student stopping by the Student Activities window.
Students serve campus life behind window By: Tyler McNeil Managing Editor Helen Schneider said she wouldn’t give up working at the Student Activities office for a higher paying job. “It is minimum wage and I could be making more, but I wouldn’t because there’s more to life than just money,” she said. “It’s about enjoying what you do,” said Schneider, one of three students that currently work in the Student Activities office. During two-to-five hour shifts throughout the week, student workers’ responsibilities range from creating flyers to selling movie tickets. Off the clock, student workers still make an effort to volunteer for Student Activities events. “We do whatever is in our power and if there is no way, we make a way,” said Schneider. Throughout the summer and academic year, student workers share the office with professional staff. “They really show that they care about you and that you’re not just another employee,” said Schneider. Working with professional staff and the Student Senate, student workers help with the preparation efforts for events such as the commencement in May. “It gives students opportunities to be creative and innovative in how we market the products for student activities,” said Louis Coplin, director of student life. “I love my job,” said Morgan Kunz, the longest-employed student worker at the office. Being ineligible for financial aid in fall 2013, Morgan Kunz was unable to apply for the Federal Work-Study Program. After visiting the Center for Careers and Employment (now the Center for Careers and Transfer), she was directed to apply for a position in the Student Activities office. Working in the office over the last three years, Kunz has witnessed management differences between Student Senate executive boards. For the last two executive boards, student workers typically stocked up the food pantry on their own. “This is actually the first year that I’ve seen [the] Senate work with the food pantry more,” she said. Although Kunz’s workload has increased since 2013, she makes an effort to fit in shifts at the Student Activities office between working two jobs. “They’re more understanding if you have things going on or you need more time off,” said Kunz. Over his last two semesters at the college, Robert Lee Song typically takes time off at the Student Activities office during finals. “School comes before work because education is ultimately what I’m here for,” said Song. In order to be eligible to work at the office, students have to maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0. Song came to Hudson Valley after taking a year off from college at Schenectady County Community College. “When I went there, there was a lot more students just going there and then going home,” he said. “It was a lot like high school,” said Song. Since working in the office, Song has become a member of the Faculty Student Association Board of Directors and a student representative for campus attorney Sandra McCarthy. “I wouldn’t be a board of director [for] a $20 million company if it wasn’t for getting this job,” he said. Song’s involvement with student life at Hudson Valley will reach an end in May. This semester, all three of the current student workers plan on leaving Hudson Valley.“Students who replace them have some very big shoes to fill,” said Alfredo Balarin, assistant director of student life.
HUDSONIAN.ORG
February 2nd, 2016
FEATURES
5
Seasonal Affect Disorder cases treated at Wellness Center By: Evette Linendoll Staff Writer Cases of Seasonal Affect Disorder in the campuses Wellness Center have been brought upon by the change in season. Seasonal Affect Disorder, otherwise known as S.A.D, is a type of depression that is related to the change in seasons. In most cases, Seasonal Affect Disorder starts in the fall and goes through the winter. It can happen just once or every year. Some symptoms include feeling depressed during the day, having low energy and thoughts of harming yourself. “It can bring on seasonal depression in certain individuals,” said Mental Health counselor Sara Donnelly. With the days growing shorter, there is less sunlight and
freezing temperatures. These conditions lead to students feeling the depression brought upon by Seasonal Affect Disorder. “I have certainly seen it here,” said Donnelly. Being a mental health counselor in the Center
for Counseling, Donnelly has had encounters with students with Seasonal Affect Disorder before at Hudson Valley. “Talk to a counselor,” she said. “If a student is affected by it, they may have a hard time fo-
Mikey Bryant | THE HUDSONIAN Between 4% and 6% of Americans suffer from Seasonal Affect Disorder every year.
Students recall previous semester highlights and low points By: Ethan Fobare Staff Writer Though the roads may have been clogged with traffic and littered with potholes, some had a smoother ride than others during the fall semester. Most students had a positive outlook on their last semester at Hudson Valley with common thoughts about the campus itself. For many, the fall semester was their first on campus, and their preconceived notions of a community college being a tiny, out of date, subpar learning institution were shattered by modern and visually appealing buildings, classy cafés offering a wide variety of foods and drinks and a comfortable and extensive library for study and research. Students like criminal justice major Brian Magee tad this experience when he started at Hudson Valley in the Fall. “I like [the buildings], everything is colorful and modern, ” said
Magee. While most liked the campus, some students felt that the buildings were too spread apart, like physical education major Rachel Robert. Robert believes that buildings like the auto tech building are too far away from the main campus.“I just wish some buildings were a little bit closer because my classes are pretty spread out,” said Robert. As well as the buildings that make physically make up Hudson Valley, a majority of students found positive interactions with their professors and classmates that make up the college. There seemed to be little friction between students with most enjoying the people that they attended class with. Magee gave a thumbs up to his classmates and professors from his first semester.“As far as my classmates go, they were all pretty chill,” said Magee. “I like the people, I like the teachers--everything is to my liking,” said individual studies
major Anthony Avola. Although most students enjoyed the fall semester, some were apprehensive about giving their full approval of the staff. “I never had any problems with anyone, except for the professors who didn’t let me wear hats,” said Magee. Some students like mortuary science major Alicia Papalowski found that the pros and cons of her fall semester all depended solely on her professors. Other students found ways to amuse themselves on campus to pass the time. Avola spent his time utilizing the Campus Center. “I played ping-pong and hung out,” he said. Hudson Valley offers a variety of ways to spend time between classes including pingpong and foosball in the Campus Center, studying in the Marvin library or just getting a bite to eat. The overall vibe from students was positive with most looking forward to starting their spring semester.
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cusing on school work or getting work done,” said Donnelly. In more extreme cases, students can struggle with finding the ability to attend classes. Seasonal Affect Disorder has multiple treatments, including the
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use of light therapy, an increase in Vitamin D and taking extra care of your body. In more severe cases of Seasonal Affect Disorder, medication can be prescribed. Donnelly recommends counseling and any type of talk therapy as her means of treatment. “We do mainly talk therapy,” said Donnelly. The Wellness Center, located on the upper level of the Campus Center, is here to help students in need. “We certainly have the means to give students the recourses to find the help they need,” she said. “Get evaluated because it’s well worth it to take the resources and not suffer through the season and wait it out.” “If something is really impeding on one’s life and one’s function, that’s when you know it’s an issue that needs to be addressed,” said Donnelly.
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February 2nd, 2016
FEATURES
By: Jenny Caulfield Creative Editor Rap and hip-hop are the most listened to genres at Hudson Valley according to an anonymous survey taken by over one hundred students across campus. Kaiheem Johnson-Morton, an individual studies major, is one of many students on campus with hip-hop as their favorite genre. “It helps me get through my days,” he said. “It changes my mood and helps me build the confidence to talk to people--it gives me my swagger,” said Johnston-Morton. Twenty percent of students listen to genres like rap because of it’s lyrical composition. “When artists can explain themselves through clever lyrics fastly it fascinates me,” said biological studies major Monica Kreis. Alternative music was the second most popular genre, with 18 percent of students being active listeners. “Most of the time it’s relatable,” said digital media student Brittany Troy whose favorite genre is alternative. “The shows are fun as fuck to go to,” she said. Seventeen percent of students liked other genres like digital media major Simeon Zialu. “It goes with your emotions,” said Zialu on his passion for R&B. “When you’re in your feelings it helps you get through it,” he said.
17% 24%
16%
18% 5% 7% 13% GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATION BY TYLER MCNEIL | THE HUDSONIAN
HUDSONIAN.ORG
February 2nd, 2016
FEATURES
7
Immigrant rapper carries rhymes from West Africa Tyler McNeil | THE HUDSONIAN Around his wrist, Souhimbou Doh Kone wears an elephant bracelet, a symbol of the Ivory Coast which he had given to him by an African immigrant friend in high school.
By: Tyler McNeil Managing Editor Souhimbou Doh Kone listened to gunfire, explosions and rap music while he was surrounded by civil unrest in Ivory Coast. Civil War One of Kone’s friends started knocking on his door in September 2002. After being let inside, Kone discovered that his friend, crying in pain, was struck with tear gas. This was the first time Kone learned about an armed uprising across the country. For over a decade in Ivory Coast, Kone witnessed two civil wars between Muslim rebels and the Christian-led government. “I heard AK-47 [rifles] going off all night and seen missiles fly over my roof,” said Kone. His family often went into hiding. While tension split his home nation apart, Kone found comfort in rap music. He was introduced to rap through his older brother, who created rap groups in both Ivory Coast and India . “Hiphop was always in the back of my head, even when I was growing up,” he said. Kone hopes to eventually use rap music to alleviate himself from trauma in Ivory Coast. “I witnessed some terrible things and sometimes I want to forget about them,” said Kone. “I feel like I have to relieve myself of all that pain and I plan on doing that through my music,” he said.
Kone’s parents moved overseas. Immigrating to the United States, his parents, which worked as educators in Ivory Coast, struggled to find employment. “We started again at the bottom of the food chain,” he said. Coming toAlbany High School in tenth grade, Kone had to start over. “I felt like I was in another dimension,” he said. “I could not hear anything they were saying.” Having limited knowledge of english at the time, Kone described hallway noise at school like “bees buzzing.” In his first year at Albany High School, Kone met Eric Degny, a member of hip-hop business Team NLD and an Ivory Coast immigrant, who helped develop his ability to freestyle rap. “It was hard for me to come up with words on the fly because I would mumble,” said Kone. “He told me ‘just keep mumbling, keep spilling, keep spilling and I just kept
getting better at it,” he said. While working with Team NLD (as ‘Ebuprofen Swaveli’), Kone was able to keep up with academics, athletics, school clubs and partying. In 2013, Kone
earned the UAlbany Multicultural High School Achievers Award. “A lot of people are flabbergasted about how I can be active in so many different ways and do well academically,” said Kone. From Pills to Parkour Unlike high school, Kone had a difficult time adapting to life at Albany School of Pharmacy. Flunking two chemistry classes in his first year, Kone started doubting his future in the pharmaceutical industry. “I couldn’t focus on just school so I started doing worse,” he said.
Kone’s ‘ego’ drove him to stick around at the school for three semesters despite losing interest in pharmaceutical studies. “Sometimes we don’t consider how our ego drives us to make bad decisions,” said Kone. While Kone struggled with medicine, he released stress with parkour or freerunning. Kone was first introduced to parkour as a child after watching District 13, a 2004 action film, directed by David Belle. “I was thinking ‘how do I learn this?’,” he said. Nearly a decade later, after gaining years of experience with martial arts, Kone started to use his agility to pursue parkour across Albany. “I love being free and with parkour that’s something I can really be,” he said. Hudson Valley Fallen Angel After little success at Albany School of Pharmacy, Kone decided to push his future in a different direction at Hudson Valley. Starting 2016 off at a different school inspired Kone to release “Hudson Valley Fallen Angel”, a new song discussing life at Hudson Valley from financial aid to campus diversity. Ever since taking Hudson Valley classes in high school, the college has stood out to him. “I always heard about Hudson Valley and cared about Hudson Valley, said Kone. Next year, Kone hopes to drive his future towards UAlbany in their public health program. He currently considers himself content being undecided about his future goals. “It’s not about reaching a goal, it’s about having something to reach for,” he said. Check out Kone’s music online: www.reverbnation.com/ ebumasterswavey
Moving to the United States Eight months into the Second Ivorian War in 2011,
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FEATURES
February 2nd, 2016
Stephanie Saddlemire | THE HUDSONIAN Elijah Hummel is a big history buff and enjoys learning about the state and world history.
FROM PAGE 1
HUMMEL As Hummel progressed at Hudson Valley, he found that there were several supportive services for him on campus such as the Center for Access and Assistive Technology office, the Academic Engagement office and the Wellness Center.
“I was reassured by people along the way that I have become more than just an ordinary student, and I hope to keep improving myself as time goes on,” said Hummel. Hummel has also found himself being a part of some clubs across campus. He is the club president of the “Not a Bit of Difference” club and a member of the Asperger’s group. “I’ve
been a part of these clubs since I came here and they have been wonderful,” said Hummel. “I have made many friends through these clubs as well,” said Hummel. “Having Aspergers and autism is kind of normal for a person such as me and then there are those people who have a more severe case of it,” said Hummel. “I communicate with them and tell them that things will be okay
and not to let people bully you.” Hummel used to be afraid to share stories about his disability, but now he feels much more confident talking about his story. One thing Hummel wants students with disabilities to know is that it’s okay to be scared, but to try it out and take small steps to see what you like. Hummel plans to continue his time at Hudson Valley part-time, and hopes to
have a career in something that he enjoys. “When I do graduate Hudson Valley, I see myself having a career in something that I like to do. I could see myself being anything I want to be such as a comic writer, historian, state worker or whatever else I want,” said Hummel.
FREEDOM By: Brody O’Connor Guest Contributor
Of all dangers to freedom, the biggest is greed The lack of self-discipline necessary to separate our wants from our needs Our government’s purpose is to protect our basic rights, not guide our lives But our freedom is slowly eroding due to our false belief in politician’s lies We allow ourselves to believe that the government is there to fix all of our problems And selfishly cave to the promise of quick fixes It’s time to take personal responsibility in our electoral process Take time to consider the elections consequences Not just presidential But local too Responsibility lies not on the government, but on me and you.
Matt Whalen | THE HUDSONIAN
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February 2nd, 2016 Vikings Sports Schedule Women’s Basketball Wednesday 02/3/16 vs. Clinton @ 5p.m. (Home)
Men’s Basketball Wednesday 02/3/16 vs. Clinton @ 7p.m. (Home)
Men’s Ice Hockey Wednesday 02/3/16 vs. Mohawk Valley @ 7p.m. (Home)
Bowling
Saturday 02/6/16 Boulevard Bowl Invit. @ 11:30a.m. (Schenectady)
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Women’s basketball team soul searching By: John C. Longton III Sports Editor The women’s basketball team hosted the Schenectady Royals on Saturday and fell short 73-60. Their record has dropped to 1-18 and they can’t seem to get over the hump. A team riddled with injuries and and little interest dressed only six players for the Schenectady game and ran out of gas toward the end of the game. Last year the team went 18-9 and had an 11-5 conference record. That was due large in part to the presence of My’Asia Alston. Alston averaged 24 points a game and seemed to score the ball at will. She was 5th in the nation in points per game and was rewarded with a full ride scholarship to
Merrimack College in Massachusetts. This year, the team has no My’Asia and have to rely on each other to score. It’s a tough task when your bench is only one person. Sophomore Deirdre Werner from Brunswick, leads the team in scoring with just over 11 points a game. She also grabs about five boards a game and is a big contributor to the team on the court. “There was a lot more experience on the team last year,” said Werner when asked what the difference was between this year’s and last year’s team. “Its different not having My’Asia. She handles the ball and was a lot of our scoring,” added Werner. The dynamic of the team this year is constantly changing with injuries and fatigue. Games become very long when your whole
team has to play 30 plus minutes a game. They still show up and put in work. “I think they’ve come a very long way long way,” said head coach Rich Gilooly. “A lot of teams in a season like this could pack it in and not work. They come out and work hard every day.” Gilooly is a first year coach at Hudson Valley and currently has an interim title. Despite his slow start his players but into his system and believe that he should remain the women’s basketball coach. “I think he’s doing very well to be honest,” said Werner. “He’s a very good experienced coach. He’s very good at explaining the game.” Gilooly faces the tough task of only having three returning players and some of his staff ha-
ven’t played basketball in years. He seems to have his team playing hard, but it’s tough to finish games when your roster is only six or seven players deep. “It’s easy for me because I only have to make one substitution,” stated Gilooly facetiously. He is really impressed that his team has not faltered and still give it their all. The team has six games left on the season then it’s time for Gilooly, the players and the athletic department to hit the recruiting trail and fill a roster for next year so that they don’t run into the same problems they’re facing. Their next home game is in two weeks when they play host to North Country Monday Feb. 8 at 5 p.m.
Vikings Scoreboard Men’s Ice Hockey
WIN
Jan. 27 HVCC v. Mohawk Val. 9-1
WIN
Jan. 30 HVCC v. Broome 7-2
Women’s Basketball
LOSS
Jan. 27 HVCC v. Adirondack 53-71
Mikey Bryant | THE HUDSONIAN The Vikings take a time out to set up a game plan but struggle to finish a they receive another tough loss.
Jan. 30 HVCC v.
LOSS Schenectady 60-73 Men’s Basketball
WIN WIN
Jan. 27 HVCC v. Adirondack 71-59 Jan. 30 HVCC v. Schenectady 99-70
Sports writers wanted!
IF YOU LIKE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING, CONTACT SPORTS EDITOR JOHN C. LONGTON III @ J-LONGTON@HVCC.EDU - SPORTS FANATIC - ATTENDING GAMES - WRITING FEATURES AND GAME RECAPS - GETTING PAID
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February 2nd, 2016
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Hitting their stride By: John C. Longton III Sports Editor After getting pummeled by eighth ranked Herkimer 95-56 last Saturday, the men’s basketball team has responded well and put together three wins in a row. After their Saturday loss, the team had to hit the road and face a 9-8 Broome team in Binghamton. In that game, the Vikings defeated the Hornets in overtime, 83-75, but getting to overtime didn’t seem like it was going to happen. With 10 seconds left, the Vikings trailed 71-68 and looked as if they were going to be handed their second loss in a row. Freshman John Palmer from East Greenbush, received a pass from freshman Jordan Nelson from Troy, and put the team on his back, hitting a three with a man in his face to send the game into an extra period. “It was a crazy shot. I’m just happy Jordan passed me the ball,” said John. “I didn’t really have a good look, but I shot it anyway.” John didn’t have time to think about his shot when the ball left his hand. “I just tried to get back on defense so they couldn’t do the same thing to us,” he said. Palmer totaled 18 in the game and the Vikings outscored the Hornets 12-4 in overtime. That was due in large part to freshman Diamond Corker from Scotia. Corker came off the bench and had five of his nine points in overtime. Freshman Kleon Davis from East Greenbush, was the Viking’s leading scorer with 19 points. On Wednesday, the team traveled up to North to face
the Adirondack Timber for their second road game in a row. They handed the Timber a 12 point loss and won 7159. The Vikings were up by 11 at the half and weren’t really threatened in the contest. John Palmer led the Vikings with 16 points, five more than his season season average of 11. Freshman Kabongo Ngalakuandi from Manchester, N.H., also scored over his average, adding 14 points. Freshman Kevin Lenehan from Duanesburg, chipped in 12 and Kleon Davis and Jordan Nelson both had 10 in the win. The young team seemed to be hitting their stride just in time to host their long time Route 7 rival, the Schenectady Royals. The Royals traveled to Troy to face the Vikings at home this past Saturday, on community day. There was free food in the foyer and the Vikings were serving up their own dishes on the court. They flushed the Royals with a 29 point victory beating them 99-70. Davis led all scorers with 25 points. “I felt great today. I filled the lanes, and John gave me the ball. I probably got him like eight assists,” said Davis. Talking about his team. Davis went on to say, “When we first started we had a bunch of good players, but we didn’t really all know each other. Now we bonded more, we hang out all the time and we play together more. We play team ball.” The Viking’s team didn’t have a returning player on its roster, but these kids have gelled together as if they’ve been playing on a team since AAU. Also in the game against the Royals,Ngalakuandi to-
Mikey Bryant | THE HUDSONIAN The men’s basketball team has a big week winning both their games to improve their record to 15-7 on the season.
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taled 15 points. Lenehan got into foul trouble early and didn’t play much in the first half. Lenehan scored 14 of his 16 points in the second half and when he was on the court his presence was felt. “I love playing with these guys. This is probably the best team I’ve ever been on,” said Lenehan. “We all know how each other plays and we are ready.” In terms of Kevin’s goals for the rest of the season he says, “We have six games left and our goal is to win the rest of these games and do great in the playoffs.” “It’s a pleasure to see and it brings a smile to my face,” said head coach Mike Long on how well his team is playing together. “Just to see the comradery that they have. They all really like each other and are pulling for each other. John Palmer is leading the team in scoring and today he probably had five or six points and he’s asking me how many assists did I get? That meant more to him than being the leading scorer.” Long’s team has come together and really grew up quite quickly over the season. They have seven regular season games left before regional play begins. If they keep progressing and playing the way they are they have a shot to go deep in the playoffs and possibly make nationals. They have two home games in the next two days: tonight, Feb. 2, where they host SUNY Orange at 7 p.m., and tomorrow, Feb. 3, where they welcome Clinton. Go out now and catch a game and support a Viking team that has the potential to have a historic season.
Mikey Bryant | THE HUDSONIAN John Palmer helps the Vikings defeat the Adirondack wiht 16 points as well as a handful against Schenectady.
February 2nd, 2016
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A conversation with Kevin Lenehan By: John C. Longton III Sports Editor Kevin Lenehan is the starting center on the men’s basketball team. He’s a freshman from Duanesburg and is having a surprising season. Kevin is transitioning really well into the college level even though he himself didn’t think he was even going to start this season. He averages about 13 points to go along with the six rebounds in the 23 minutes that he averages per game. Coach Mike Long thinks that he’s going to be recruited by a DI program by the end of the season. I sat down with Kevin for a conversation and it went like this: Q: When did you start playing basketball? A: I started when I was in third grade. I did AAU for four or five years for Voorheesville actually. The Voorheesville swish. I played CYO when I was younger and high school basketball. Q: When did you become a starter for the high school team at Duanesburg? A: Tenth grade was my first year on varsity and that’s when I started. I pretty much started every year that I played. Q: Did you play any other sports growing up? A: Yeah I did wrestling for a little. I also played soccer, baseball and football to. Q: What sport did you stick with the longest besides basketball? A: Football. I played pee wee all the way through high school. ory?
Q: What’s your greatest high school basketball mem-
A: It was senior night my senior year. I don’t really remember how many points I had, but I remember I had four dunks in the game. That was really fun. I think we beat the team by like forty or something.
Q: Did you think your game would translate to the college level so quickly? A: No actually. Coming out of high school I didn’t think I would even be able to start. I thought I was going to be a sixth player at most. After the first couple weeks of practice then playing other teams. To me it’s not too much different I can still handle it and I like starting.
Q: Are you looking at other schools to transfer to? A: I’m thinking of UAlbany. The only thing I have to do is get my grades up. I think I can put in the work and definitely be a good enough player to play for them. Over the summer I plan on getting a personal trainer and do some weightlifting. I’m close to done growing so I’m gonna start bulking up.
Q: How do you like playing for Coach Long? A: I like him. He’s a really good coach. I like the way he interacts with us. I like how hard he is on us. He’s doing it because he cares about us. Tough love.
Q: You ever think of changing your position to play for a bigger school? A: Um yes. In high school I was always a center. When I came here I thought I was going to play the four (power forward). I am the tallest guy on the team so I kinda still play center, but I can definitely play Like a three or a four position. My shot’s pretty decent and I can definitely get it a little better. Same with my handling.
Q: What sets this team apart from past teams you’ve played for? A: This team we all try to play together. On previous teams especially AAU it was just kind of one on one. We kind of had that problem a couple times this year, but we all are freshman we are all getting used to each other. And we are getting some good team chemistry. Q: You think the more games you guys are getting under your belt the better the team is performing? A: Yeah.
Kevin’s impact to the men’s team was almost instant. He’s getting better every game and is getting noticed a little more every game. He has another year left at Hudson Valley and then will look to add value to a bigger program.
Q: What are your season goals? A: We want at least 20 wins. We are at 11-6 right now. We’ve got 11 games left and we need to win at least nine of them. I think we can win all 11 of them. We just got to come prepared. I hope we do pretty good in the playoffs. I hope we win (regionals), but realistically I want to at least win a couple (playoff) games. Q: What classes are you taking here at Hudson Valley? A: My major right now is individual studies, but I’m probably going to go for a business degree. Q: What are your career goals? A: Get a job, have a family and live happy. Q: Any particular job you’re looking for? A: Not right now. Something that I like.
Marison Topinio | THE HUDSONIAN Kevin Lenahan helped the Vikings defeat Schenectady over the weekend with 16 points.
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February 2nd, 2016
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HOCKEY SHOOTS INTO NATIONALS By: Samantha Longton Staff Writer After winning two big home games this past weekend with a combined score of 16-3, the men’s hockey team has clinched a spot in the National Tournament. It started with a 9-1 victory this past Wednesday as Hudson Valley played host to the Mohawk Valley Hawks. The Vikings were previously 6-8 on the season after defeating Broome at an away game on January 21st and were looking for a spark that would save their season. Considering the last time Hudson Valley and Mohawk Valley faced off, a game which ended in a 2-1 overtime win, attendees believed the results of this game could have gone either way. Freshman player Adam Hosmer from Westfield, Mass., scored the first goal for the Vikings in just over two minutes into the first period. “We just came off of a big win against Broome so it was just good to get back on the ice and keep it going,” said Hosmer.
The Hawk’s only goal came as time was winding down in the first period. Despite leading Mohawk 3-1, the the Hawks seemed to out skate the Vikings during the first period. “I think we are a better hockey team than they are, it just took us a while to get going,” said Matt Alvey, Vikings head coach. “It’s been an up and down season. We’re trying to tighten up everything so we can keep playing and progressing,” said Alvey. The Vikings came back even harder in the second period with scoring three more goals and beginning to out skate the Hawks. By the time the third period came around, Mohawk Valley pulled their goalie, Freddie Peters, and put in Joe Bonanza to try to save the team. Within minutes freshman Nick VanLiew, from Ballston Spa, scored the final goal of the game assisted by freshman Sean Spohr from Westfield, Mass.. This would be the dagger that Hudson Valley was looking for, sealing the Hawks’ fate. Spohr believed that the Hawks’ weak spot was their defensive coverage. “We were open pretty much the whole time.
They just let us stay open and so we could get some quality shots in,” said Spohr. Goalie Nate Muller for Hudson Valley kept up during the game with a total of 29 saves. “I don’t think I faced many challenging shots and I think it was because of the defense,” said Muller. “I think we’re improving as a team and our system is getting a lot better,” Muller continued. The next game was Saturday as the Vikings hosted the Broome Hornets in a game that Hudson Valley needed to get back into contention and they did in a big way. They beat Broome 7-2 and dominated in all facets of the game. Broome didn’t get their first shot on goal in the game until 8:26 left in the first period. By that time Hudson Valley was up 1-0 and did not surrender the lead. Spohr finished the game with four goals and has really come on late for this team. Spohr has needed time to adjust to the collegiate level, but now is seen as a threat by every team in the league. “In the beginning of the season I was definitely having a lot
more trouble clicking and getting used to a new style of play, but one I got used to it it just started working out,” said Spohr. Sean now has 15 goals on the season and things seem to be clicking for he and his team at the right time. The team got off to a 2-6 record to start the season, but with Saturday’s win they are now 8-8 and right back into contention. Most of these kids have never played hockey with each other before the start of this season and now seem as if they’ve been on the ice together as a unit for years. “Our goal is to win the rest of the games,” said head coach Matt Alvey. “Our philosophy is that we come to practice every day and work hard and prepare for each game that we’re going to have each week.” The Vikings and the Hawks will face off again this Wednesday, Feb. 3, at 7 p.m. in the Mcdonough Sports Complex. After that, the Vikings will have four games remaining before Nationals on Feb. 27. If they keep up the pace they’ve been playing at, they have a good chance to win it all a year before the curtain closes. Matt Whalen | THE HUDSONIAN
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