Volume 74, Issue 22
May 2, 2019
FREE | Extra Copies, 25 cents
Students Win Viking Cup CUP | Page 4
Students and faculty hold the game winning cup at the spring fest soccer match PHOTO BY GRIFFIN ONDERCHAIN
The final countdown: tips and tricks for acing that test By: Asan Anarkulov Staff Writer As May arrives, more students visit the Marvin Library. Finals are fast approaching and it’s time to buckle down. Students and professors provide insight into what helps get A’s. “I like to spread my study over time,” Megan Utama, a business administration major, said. “It’s very efficient [and] it helps me to remember more and it doesn’t require as much time as if you study everything in one session.” A similar technique was utilized by David Isaac Robertson, an engineering science student. The biggest strategy he employed came long before the final. It came in the first week of class. “I make sure I understand where the bulk of my grade will come from and that's where I spend the most time and effort,” Robertson said.
Danica A. Nowosielski, an associate professor of chemistry at Hudson Valley Community College, confirmed this method of preparation. “Students should keep in mind from the first day of the semester that the final exam is not really a silver bullet and rarely significantly improves your grade,” Nowosielski explained. “Working with the material all semester long, doing your homework and reviewing as necessary are very helpful.” According to Nicholas Viscio, a part-time adjunct instructor, students should start now by taking small test preparation steps in every one of their subjects. “Some of my tests cover topics I have specifically covered only in the classroom and not necessarily from the text,” Viscio said. “Attending class is key.”
Prof. Benton helps a student prepare for a soon arriving final PHOTO BY ASAN ANARKULOV
Nowosielski agreed class attendance is a very important determining factor for a student’s final grade. “It seems that students who do not attend class do not do as well on the final exam as they could,” she said. Nowosielski also emphasized the importance of review sessions. “Attend [review sessions] even if you don’t have questions yourself,” she said. “Other students in the class may ask about topics that you will benefit from hearing discussed again.” Attendance, communication and early studying are key components of succeeding during finals. However, most of the semester has already passed. Finals are almost here.
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Eric Segerstrom, an engineering science major, explained that he keeps a sheet of paper nearby to write down any important information and formulas that come up. “I try to keep it well-organized so that when I'm done, everything I need to know for that test is on that sheet,” he said. Additionally, Segerstrom reminded students to get proper rest and to eat a proper meal before finals. “Don't sacrifice sleep or food to study,” he said. “You tend to remember more than you think you will if you're well-rested and not hungry.” Luke Mara, criminal justice major, finds it helpful to communicate with his professors.
“Students need to take advantage of their professors’ office hours,” Mara said. “This one-onone time is the best way to review because you get a better idea of the concepts that will be on the final exam, therefore narrowing your areas to study.” Furthermore, Mara encourages students to use school resources. For Mara’s statistics class, he spent countless hours in the Learning Assistance Center (LAC) help desk. “I have never been a good math student getting a B at best in high school. With the help of the LAC, I was able to pull off an A in college,” Mara said.
2 This Week’s Events
Wed 1
Recruiter on Campus: New York Army National Guard 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Biology, Chemistry and Physics Department Student Awards 5:30 p.m. -7:30 p.m.
Thur 2
Transfer Adviser Visit: The College of Saint Rose 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Seasonal Job Fair 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Fri 3
Hudsonian Meeting 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Animal Outreach Club 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Tues 7
Transfer Information Table: The College of Saint Rose 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Investment Club Meeting 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Thur 9
Fri 10
Micro-credentials may be the solution to a dwindling workforce
31st Annual Special Programs Awards Ceremony 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Mon 6
Wed 8
May 2, 2019
NEWS
Instant Admission Day 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Commencement Cap, Gown, Ticket Distribution 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Transfer Adviser Visit: Siena College 10:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. History, Philosophy and Social Sciences Research Award Ceremony 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Commencement Cap, Gown, Ticket Distribution 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Faculty/Staff Honors Convocation 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Commencement Cap, Gown, Ticket Distribution 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Dental Hygiene Professional Awards and Achievment Ceremony 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Weather WEDNESDAY 05/01/19 High/Low 56/51
President Ramsammy gathers with representatives of the Northern Family of Services concerning new “Learn Where You Earn”micro-credentials
By: Omsalama Ayoub Jr. News Editor “New York state has a workforce crisis,” William Getman, CEO of Northern Rivers Family of Services, said at the launch of “Learn Where You Earn” conference held 10 a.m. to noon, April 17 at the Northern Rivers headquarters. Employees are able to attend Hudson Valley Community College through tuition reimbursement and $50 to earn micro-credentials, certifications that build on students’ capabilities. Seventeen students will begin the micro-credential program in May. The conference was a celebration of the partnership between Northern Rivers and Hudson Valley Community College. “Unemployment insurance is low right now,” Robert Wildermuth III, executive director of the Capital Region Workforce, said. “There are people looking for work, but it’s best if the people who are currently working right now get promotions and they can backfill those positions.” Northern Rivers employees
THURSDAY 05/02/19 High/Low 60/49
The Hudsonian Hudson Valley Community College 80 Vandenburgh Ave. Troy, NY 12180 Phone: 518-629-7568 Email: hudsonian@hvcc.edu Editorial Policy All views expressed in this paper are those of the author, and not necessarily those of the The Hudsonian or the College.
Editor-in-Chief Jaimie Albright Managing Editor Kevin Waltz Copy Editor Hailey McLaughlin Layout Editor Jacob Freehart News Editor Angela Scipione Creative Editor Elizabeth Stenard
FRIDAY 05/03/19 High/Low 60/45
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serve for domestic violence abuse victims, child care domestic violence victims and provide mental health services. “Learn Where You Earn,” is a set of micro-credentials that cater to the Northern Rivers human services field and aims to give those employees who have no college degrees certifiable transcripts that show their specialized skill sets that allow them to move up in the organization. “One out of six jobs in the state are in the non-for-profit sector,” Gettman said. “Our turnover rates in our sector exceed 30% every year,” he said. “That means we have 100 vacant positions on any given day, and that impacts the quality of service that we can provide [not only] to families, kids and adults, but also the future.” The Capital Region Workforce Development Board, which provides essential worker training, seeks to aid individuals in finding employment. Gettman stressed that the retainment of employees has become a hefty issue. Yet, Northern Rivers has aspirations to grow their organization, requiring not
SATURDAY 05/04/19 High/Low 58/41
Sports Editor Hunter McIntyre Photo Editor Griffin Onderchain Web Editor Nicole Scipione Business Manager Lya Zhang
Jr. Copy Editor Maggie Helenek Jr. Layout Editor Stephen Brokalis Jr. Creative Editor Kyle Spencer Jr. News Editors Lauren Alford Omsalama Ayoub Jr. Photo Editor Jeremy McEvoy Jr. Web Editor Jie Weng
only retainment but also more specialized employees. “Our workforce is underpaid, under-compensated and under-respected,” Gettman said. “Learn Where You Earn” is projected to improve quality of life for Northern Rivers employees in Albany, Rensselaer and Schenectady by revitalizing the local economy. According to Dr. MaryAnn Janosik, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs, a priority for the SUNY system is micro-credentialing, a competency-based approach to education. Competency learning looks to teach concrete skills rather than abstract concepts. “Micro-credentialing is a start, yet a veritable stackable degree that stands on its own,” Janosik said. The coursework is tailored for specified skills the new Hudson Valley Community College students can use as bargaining chips for better paychecks. The program was designed in part by the department chair for human services, Marianne Pepe. “[The 31-credit program will
SUNDAY 05/05/19 High/Low 63/47 Staff Writers Colin Bauer Asan A Staff Photographers Asan Anarkulov Adviser Rachel Bornn
dive into] the study of the way in which society and family influence human growth and social functioning and the effects of both individual development and the interactions between individuals and families,” Eugene White, marketing and public relations manager, said. Community relations are integral, according to President Dr. Roger Ramsammy. Although Hudson Valley Community College has coordinated in the past with New York State to provide state employees with similar objectives, “Learn Where You Earn” is the first of its kind. This approach makes learning more accessible to those who cannot dedicate as much time. “Making education more accessible is what makes partnerships like this powerful, bold and so important,” Janosik said. The program is funded by the Workforce Development Board who receive their budget in part by the Workforce Innovation Act and Opportunity Act and the U.S. Department of Labor which engages employers in bettering the standing of their own employees.
MONDAY 05/06/19 High/Low 64/49 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.
TUESDAY 05/07/19 High/Low 66/51 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 BTC 307.
May 2, 2019
NEWS
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Andrew Yang sparks discussion on universal income
Politics
By: Nolan Cleary Staff Writer
Hudson Valley Community College students have expressed conflicting opinions on the Universal Basic Income proposal of Andrew Yang, a presidential candidate and entrepreneur from Schenectady. Yang recently qualified for participation in at least one of the Democratic debates set to begin in June, and a recent Emerson College poll put him ahead of Cory Booker (DNJ), Amy Klobachar (D-MN) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), all sitting members of the U.S. Senate. So, what’s his secret? The 44-year-old's rising campaign is centered around Universal Basic Income. "Universal Basic Income (UBI) is a form of social security that guarantees a certain amount of money to every citizen within a given governed population, without having to pass a test or fulfill a work requirement," Yang states on his campaign website. The idea, though not a new one, is becoming more popularized with Yang's campaign on the rise. Elon Musk has expressed optimism about UBI, while Newark Mayor Ras Baraka (D) has shown interest in implementing the proposed idea. At Hudson Valley Community College, however, students aren’t as enthusiastic about the idea of Universal Basic Income. Joe Forester, a registered Democrat in individual studies, was skeptical. "I don’t think there’d be room in the budget for that," Forester said. Adolescent development major, JohnMar Radriguez was in agreement. “I don’t think it would work in the long term," Rodriguez stated. According to Andrew, a Republican student majoring in construction, people should have to work for their money. "I like to work for what I do," he said. "I don’t like things given to me." Nicholas Duran, a moderate Republican student in construction management, was also doubtful over UBI and expressed mixed feelings. "I can see [UBI] working in a certain sense, but I have a lot of friends who’ll just take that cash and try and make [it] last them,” Duran said. “They won’t work.” However, some students held more optimism about the proposal. Digital media major and Democrat, Conor Norris, believed Yang's plan could help diabetics like him. "Recently the insulin has gone up in price,” Norris explained. “I feel like [UBI] would help with the rising prices of insulin and actually help diabetics like myself." In spite of his progressive roots, Andrew Yang has received praise and support from conservatives, specifically those who supported Donald Trump in 2016. Self-proclaimed white supremacist, Richard Spencer, also endorsed Yang via social media, to which Yang rejected his support. According to Robert Whitaker, an associate professor of history, philosophy and
2020 Election Poll
With
Nolan
Your weekly intake of what is going on in the nation and your fellow student’s perspective on it.
30%
Generic Democrat
46.67%
President Trump Different Candidate Undecided
17.78%
In a conducted poll with over 100 students, they gave their take on who they would vote for in the upcoming 2020 election. The results
5.56%
can be seen in the two graphs
the social sciences at Hudson Valley Community College, conservatives may be supporting Yang in an attempt to help Trump win re-election. “Sometimes in primary contests like this, supporters of one party will try to influence the outcome of the primary in a competing party and they try and throw their support behind the weakest candidate," Whitaker said. "You’re kind of disrupting the internal mechanics of the political party's primary."
Whitaker also had his own theory as to why so many students opposed the idea of Universal Basic Income. "It seems to go against the traditional American creed of ‘you work hard, you create your own opportunities to get ahead,’" Whitaker explained. According to him, some younger students, specifically those that vote with Democrats, may support safety nets, but little else when it comes to benefits from
the federal government. "I think there may be students who believe the government should step in with financial assistance in an emergency,” Whitaker said. “It’s a safety net, not a sidewalk." The Hudsonian reached out to Andrew Yang's team for comment but did not receive a response from anyone involved in the campaign.
Generic Democrat Preferences Undecided
15.15%
Not Listed
3.03%
Andrew Yang
3.03%
Amy Klobachar
3.03%
Pete Buttigieg
3.03%
Kamal a Harris
6.06%
Joe Biden
24.24%
Bernie Sanders
42.42%
0.00% 5.00% 10.00% 15.00% 20.00% 25.00% 30.00% 35.00% 40.00% 45.00%
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May 09, 2018
NEWS
Loved ones remembered at Campus Memorial Service
By: Lauren Alford Jr. News Editor
Friends, family, classmates and colleagues gathered to remember those Hudson Valley Community College have lost in the past academic year during the Campus Memorial Service on April 15. “We have come here today to celebrate the life of a person we have loved and lost,” Michelle Thivierge, Campus Chaplain for Hudson Valley Community College, said. Thivierge began with a greeting and prayer. This was followed by a reading from the Christian Holy Bible’s book of Isaiah 43:1-2, as well as Isaiah 66:13. These passages referred to God comforting and protecting the ones he has created. Attendees then listened to Jay Deitchman, Coordinator of International Student Services, recite an English translation of the Mourner's Kaddish. Written in the ancient Semitic language of Aramaic, the prayer is traditionally recited for 11 months following the burial of a parent. It is recited to show that God will still be praised even in the wake of death. Biological sciences student, Sayema Matin, then read a passage from the Quran, an Islamic sacred text. The Surah Al-Baqara, Ayah 155-157, mentioned that Allah tests and tries those who serve him. It said that man belongs to Allah, and is thus destined to return to him. “While life can hand us trying experiences, the believer finds rest in drawing near to the Creator during these difficult times,” Thivierge told the attendees. Soon after the religious readings, the Voices of Valhalla Choir performed “There is a Balm in Gilead,” an African American spiritual. The choir was directed by music history professor, Mary Ann Gulyas. As stated by Thivierge, during the grieving process there are days when we can feel less than whole. She continued to say that the very same grief process can, in and of itself, act like a balm. Louis Coplin, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Development, read “On Grief,” a poem by the late Irish author, John O’Donohue. Following Coplin’s reading, white flowers we offered to the families of those who had passed on. “Flowers are a universal symbol of life, affection and beauty,” Thivierge said. “They are a powerful metaphor for life.” According to Thivierge, our parks, forests, food, agriculture and connection with nature itself would be different altogether without flowers. They show us by their existence what it means to add beauty and contribute to the
The memorial display honoring faculty and students who have retired or passed away
CUP FROM PAGE 1
PHOTO BY HANNAH LETTIERI
Asan Anarkulov sets to attempt a goal during the Faculty vs Students Soccer game
world in both big and small ways. “Today we use them as a symbol to remember our dearly departed and the impact their life had here at Hudson Valley [Community College] and within the world,” she said. As Thivierge called out the names of the departed, student musicians played the Christian hymn, “Amazing Grace.” The remaining unclaimed flowers were displayed in the Campus Ministry. Eulogies were given by attendees who wished to speak. Student Senate President, Jamison Jarosz, led the the attendees in a chant of remembrance. As he called out the name of one who had passed, the attendees responded with the words “we remember them.” After Jarosz’ words, the Choir Club performed “For Good,” a ballad from the Broadway musical “Wicked.” Following the memorial, attendees were given the option to write the name of passed loved ones in the Book of Remembrance.
By: Maggie Helenek Jr. Copy Editor
Students won the Faculty vs. Students soccer game, 5-2, at Hudson Valley’s Annual Spring Fest. The event took place from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 25 at the Outdoor Athletic Complex. Jack Furlong, a liberal arts major, was a part of the student team in the soccer match. “I thought that we got off to a commanding 2-0 lead and then it was 5-2 at halftime,” Furlong said. “Our defense held well.” “[Spring Fest] has been a lot of fun, [and there are] tons of activities,” Furlong said. “I’m glad that I got involved with the Viking Cup challenge this year,” he said. “I’m in the Student Senate and I heard about the game and I signed up as soon as I could.” Adam Sopris, Assistant Director of Athletics and Sports Information Director, helped organize the match with Alfredo Balarin, the Assistant Director of Student Life. They were both members of the staff team. “It was a good game and I think students enjoyed themselves,”
PHOTO BY VINCENT GIORDANO
Balarin said. “I think [the] staff had a good time as well,” he continued. “It’s great weather and a good day to have faculty and students interact and get ready for the end of the year.” Caricature paintings, free food, T-shirts and music added to the success of the game for the students and contributed to the engagement, according to Sporis. “I was warming up and getting ready for the game, [but] I know that they had a lot of students participate in the caricatures,” Balarin stated. “It’s always a lot of fun.” In previous years, students and faculty have competed in softball, kickball and dodgeball. “The previous president we had liked baseball so that’s why we did softball,” Sopris said. “Dr. Ramsammy’s a big soccer fan so we switched it up to a soccer match,” he said. “Compared to last year and the year before, I think more students were involved with playing the game and [watching] in the stands.” Mikayla Holden, a student within the paramedic program, enjoyed the Spring Festival.
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“It’s my first year attending [Hudson Valley Community College] so this is my first Spring Fest,” she said. “I filled out a survey and got a free shirt,” Holden continued. “The best part is probably the food.” Holden has taken advantage of the caricatures at previous Hudson Valley Community College events. “We have caricatures at every event we do,” Sopris said. “They seem to be a big hit, so we keep bringing them back.” Richard Vanalstyne, a student in the Overhead Electric Line Worker program, also attended Spring Fest for the first time. “I just enjoyed some free food and got to watch the game,” Vanalstyne stated. “These events are nice because you get students, faculty and staff to interact outside the classroom and office environment which doesn’t always occur,” Balarin said. “It’s good for people to have fun together and get to know that we are all not that different.” “I would for sure attend Spring Fest again,” Furlong said.
May 09, 2018
NEWS
5
the
HUDSONIAN
Want to improve your writing? Love taking photos? Enjoy watching sporting events? At the Hudsonian you can do all of these things and receive compensation for contributing! All skills levels are welcome and encouraged to come to our weekly meetings every Monday at 2 p.m. in BTC 307. Stop by and bring your friends as well. For additional information visit the Hudsonian Newsroom which is located in the Campus Center CTR 291. You can also email us at hudsonian@hvcc.edu Beginning Monday, April 29 th , in addition to the regularly scheduled writing assistance available in the Writing and Research Center, Hudson Valley Composition I instructors will be offering writing assistance for students working on their final research papers required in Composition I. See schedule below. All stages of the writing and research process are welcomed. However, to maximize assistance, we ask that you please bring a copy of your final project assignment in Composition I as well as any notes, pre-writing materials, drafts, and sources you may have. It is also recommended that you bring or are able to access an electronic version of your working draft if you have one. The Writing and Research Center is located on the 2 nd floor of the Marvin Library. Please remember to bring your ID card.
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May 2, 2019
NEWS
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Threads’ 2019 edition continu By: Angela Scipione News Editor “Everybody has a story and it’s nice to be able to share it,” Jessica Brouker, English, foreign language and ESL professor, said. A reading of Threads was presented on Tuesday, April 11 in the Bulmer Telecommunications Center. According to Dr. Maria Palmara, English, foreign languages and English as a second language department chairperson, Threads is the English department’s literary journal that celebrates student writing and artwork. Each author included in the collective publication was called up to read their piece during the ceremony. Before the readings were conducted, Palmara presented the 2019 Threads Magazine Awards. Four writing award winners and one art award winner were announced. “Threads awards are given to students who submitted and were selected as among the best in the 2019 issue,” Palmara said. “All awards come with a certificate and a cash prize.” Malik Johnson, honors business major and author of “Noire Documentary,” was one receiver of the Threads Writing Award. “I don’t consider myself a writer, but I know i’ve always been good at it,” Johnson said. “It just feels natural to me, something I don’t really have to try that hard to do.” Johnson found out about Threads through a professor who suggested he submit a writing piece. “I didn't think I was even gonna win or be published, and then I actually won a writing award for it,” he explained. “It’s funny, it was
Dr. Maria Palmara speaks to the crowd discussing of the significance of T
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just an extra credit assignment that I did, so I didn’t really think it was that good, but she saw something in it so I just trusted her. I feel honored.” Johnson believes that Threads exemplifies the passion that Hudson Valley Community College holds for its students. “I think it shows students that what you write at Hudson Valley [Community College] isn’t just a grade; it’s not just something you have to submit for points,” Johnson said. “It’s something that [the college] feels is important because it’s important to us,” he said. ‘It
shows that they do care about what we do besides just grading us.” Additionally, Johnson sees Threads as a way to bring together the community and its voices. Threads is all about sharing perspectives, and he believes that students could read his piece and see themselves in it. Matthew Sheldon, business major and author of “Free as a Bird,” agreed. According to Sheldon, his poem is about wanting help and an answer to everything going on inside himself. He wants others to
know that they are not alone. “There’s the symbolism of the bird flying free: The people around me living free lives, and they weren't boggled down by mental illness,” Sheldon said. “They could just go to school and learn, whereas I had to go to school and try to force suicidal thoughts out of my head.” Sheldon stated that when he wrote the poem, he was in a very dark place in his life. “I hope that my poem can connect with people on campus,” he said. “I hope that they won’t have to feel alone.”
Many of the students who submitted work used creativity as an outlet for their thoughts and feelings. Psychology major and author of “i, a jewess,” Sophinnian Rich, writes and draws in response to events that happen around her. “If I write, it’s usually because something has happened and it’s an emotional outlet for me,” Rich said. “My poem, “i, a jewess,” comes from fear of persecution that’s been handed down in my family,’ she said. “As a Jew, that is something that we face and we have this history of constantly
“I hope that m poem can conne with people on campus,” he sai “I hope that the won’t have to fe alone.” Matthew Sheldo Business Major
Students gather to express their ideas and thoughts
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7May 09, 2018
May 2, 2019 7
NEWS
ues to weave voices on campus running from someone who wants to kill us.” Rich explained how the details in her poem, such as using a rhyming scheme, were intentional. “I wrote with a rhyming scheme because I felt so vulnerable and scared like a child, that I needed some sort of structure to hold on to,” she commented. “So even how I wrote the poem was an expression of how terrified I was.” But for communications student, Joanna Pennings, writing is simply for fun. She maintains that her published literary pieces were written just for the joy of writing and that sometimes there doesn't have to be a life altering moment behind a piece of work. “I would love to, at least part of my life, be an author,” Pennings said. “I think the publishing of Threads itself is helpful because it’s validating to what you’re doing.” Pennings also liked that the event itself forced writers out of their comfort zones. “A lot of writers don’t tend to speak out as much, so I think it forces people to actually go out and do something about what they write and not just submit it and hide behind it,” she said. “You get to have a platform where you feel like you’re allowed to share some-
Threads
thing about yourself.” Many of the writers, when called up to read their piece, were nervous to speak in front of the crowd. Especially because many of the pieces were personal to themselves. “I’m more nervous about speaking than anything,” Rich said. “The prospect of having to get up in front of people and then share it is a lot more terrifying to me than actually submitting anything.” However, she understands that reading her piece was worth the worry. “I write a lot of things that no one ever sees but me, so knowing that something I’ve written may have helped someone in some way is really important to me,” she said. “I feel a lot of very visceral emotions when I read this poem that I wrote and I wanted that to get through to other people. Chelsea Conger, mortuary science major and author of “The Desert,” was also happy to read her piece to the audience. “My piece was about my personal experience with addiction,” Conger said. “The message [was] that we should help people who are struggling even though they don’t help themselves and that we should give to people even when
they don’t deserve to be given to.” She explained that she does not feel shame about her addiction, though it’s not something she openly shares, which made reading her story all the more powerful for herself. “It was cathartic,” Congersaid. “It’s kind of nice to go out there as somebody who doesn't feel that shame and show people that [their] viewpoint of addiction is maybe incorrect, and because I was so passionate about my piece, I was less nervous because I really felt my message,” shesaid. “I even have my own aspirations of maybe trying to publish personal stories, so it’s kind of a step in the right direction.” Sheldon expressed a similar feeling of having more confidence after being published in Threads. “I feel Threads is a great stepping stone,” he said. “I’ve never been officially published in any form, so to have a piece that I created thrown out there for the world to see in a physical copy, that’s the next step that i’ve never been able to achieve.” According to Sheldon, being published has given him the courage to try and publish other works. “I have entire albums of sheet music and lyrics written in note-
books at home that have never seen the light of day, because I’ve always lacked the willpower to try to make them into audio,” Sheldon said. “But I feel that this could be the step towards getting something recorded,” he said. “I feel Threads can help people achieve something, at least be the first step to achieving more.” One thing that Sheldon said could be improved for Threads was advertising. “I feel it should be better publicized,” he said. “I wouldn’t have known about it if it wasn’t for my English professors saying ‘hey you should give this a try.’” As stated by Paul Charbel, English, Foreign Language and ESL professor, one of the main ways that Threads is advertised is through the bookstore. “Let’s say you’re getting your books for English class for the first time, we include Threads in the prepack of the Bedford handbook,” Charbel explained. Additionally, some professors use Threads for coursework. Some professors even bring their class to the reading event or give extra credit to those who attend, Charbel said. Harold Scott, communications major and a winner of the Threads
Writing Award, wrote his poem in response to a piece in a previous Threads publication. “The inspiration to write came from a class assignment requiring us to read someone else’s work and then try to write our own poem with a similar style, but not at all based on the same content,” Scott said. “My poem, “Fear: After “Tamed” by Kyle Pergolino,” was about an experience one evening while I was serving in Iraq, in 2005.” “It felt great to win the award, quite an honor to me, actually,” he said. “I really never knew just what I could accomplish academically until I was challenged to do so here at Hudson Valley [Community College].” All members of the Threads Committee encourage students to submit their writing, drawings, paintings and photography to Threads. “It’s the hardest hurdle to jump, the fear of someone else reading your work and saying it’s not worthy,” Charbel said. “I understand that fear all too well, and I want you to know that everybody feels that fear,” he said. “The difference is will you put yourself out there? I say take the step, submit it. It’s always worth a shot.”
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REVIEW NEWS
For the love of science, read “The Disappearing Spoon”
By: Griffin Onderchain Photo Editor
“The Disappearing Spoon” by Sam Kean is a collection of real stories about the author’s fascination with the periodic table. These stories take place through different eras of human history, from
ancient Greece to World War II. They chronicle the lives of the amazing scientists who were just as fascinated as Kean about the world they live in. For readers looking for a single narrative with a standard structure, this book is not going to be
Lizzo, a powerhouse of female empowerment and body positivity
By: Kyle Spencer Jr. Creative Editor
“Soulmate” was a very self-empowering song. Lizzo sang about loving herself and loving the person in the mirror. It was a very upbeat song with a darker meaning behind it. In “Jerome,” Lizzo slowed down the album. This was her first song with the X Ambassadors and Sam Harris. The song was finished in one day which says a lot about her as an artist because her voice is so different from everyone else. In “Cry Baby,” the lyrics were a direct anecdote to her life. It was a slow, groovy song swinging back and forth with every word she sang. “Tempo” was a song on the album that was unlike the rest of the album. The album has a lot of guitar and big, brassy instrumentation, but ‘Tempo’ was more of a trap song. With “Exactly How I Feel” featuring Gucci Mane, Lizzo sang about being proud of your emotions and not feeling like you have to hide them or fake them. Gucci Mane was a very nice addition to the song. In “Better in Color,” Lizzo sang about love and attraction. The song had a nice funk influence. Next, was “Heaven Help Me.” Lizzo had a nice piano beat that gave the song a very uplifting song while she belted notes out. Lizzo had a hard time coming up with how she wanted to word her last song “Lingerie.” However, this song really left you wanting more songs Lizzo has grown science her first album and you can see that in this album and I’m looking forward to hearing more from her.
Riddles By: Josh Bates Staff Writer
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that affect us everyday. However, “The Disappearing Spoon” does suffer from one main problem that demotes what could’ve been an amazing book to merely great. Although Kean does his best to break down incredibly advanced topics, some of them are just too complex unless you have a ton of previous knowledge. There were various points in the book where he would get into submolecular physics and different aspects of quantum mechanics that were just too high level. Even though I was astounded by what the story portrayed, I would
often get caught up in the confusion of little details, taking me out of the book. That being said, now that spring is rolling in and summer is just around the corner, “The Disappearing Spoon” is the perfect summer read. It’s not difficult to get into and once it sucks you in, just like a black hole, there’s no way out. “The Disappearing Spoon” definitely rekindled my love of science. For those who are fascinated by the laws of nature, this book should certainly be on your summer wish list.
1: I'm a five letter word. If you take away my first letter I still sound the same. If you take away my third letter I still sound the same. If you take away my last letter I still sound the same. What word am I? 2: The person who made it didn't want it. The person who bought it didn't need it. The person who used it didn't know it. What is it? 3: If I eat I live, and if drink I die. What am I?
Can You Solve this Brain Teaser? Think You’re Smart? Find the Apples and Oranges! By: Omsalama Ayoub Jr. News Editor
There are three boxes of fruit. Each box has a label. The labels say ORANGES or APPLES or ORANGES AND APPLES, but the labels have been switched so that each label is on the wrong box. You are allowed to remove one piece of fruit from one box without knowing anything else about the contents of that box. Based on that piece of information only, can you put the correct label on each box?
APPLES
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ORANGES
ORANGES AND APPLES
Solutions can be found on the final page
Powerhouse pipes, razor-sharp wit and a tireless commitment to self-love and self-care, Lizzo is the fearless pop star we needed. Born Melissa Jefferson in Detroit, the singer and classically trained flutist discovered an early gift for music and began recording in Minneapolis shortly after high school. Her trademark self-confidence came less naturally. She had to look deep down inside herself to a really dark place to discover what she really had. Perhaps that’s why her third album, “Cuz I Love You,” released April 19, 2019, sounded so triumphant. She incorporated explosive horns, club drums and swaggering diva attitude into her album to make it a great. Her brand is about more than mic-drop zingers and big-budget features. On songs like “Better in Color”—a stomping, woke plea for people of all stripes to get together—she offered an important message: It’s not enough to love ourselves, we also have to love each other. In “Cuz I Love You” Lizzo started out with big, brassy orchestral moment. This is just one of those songs that get you amped from the jump. Her extremely breathy voice matched the song perfectly. With the next song “Like A Girl,” Lizzo intended for this to be a very meaningful and powerful piece. This was a very upbeat song with jumpy lyrics and a strong chorus. “Juice,” Lizzo’s favorite song on the album, had a larger message behind it. The lyrics behind the song were written to make people feel good and love themselves.
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a fun ride for you. However, if you have even the smallest interest in science, this is a must-read. Reading this book is like listening to your friend talk about their favorite topic. That being said, the content of this book leaves you feeling the same way the author writes: Like a child who knows nothing, yet fascinated by everything. Although every story in this book is awe-inspiring in its own right, one story stuck out in my mind and happens to be the reason the book is called “The Disappearing Spoon.” The main character of this story is the element Gallium—an interesting metal that at room temperature is a solid block, but above body temperature melts into a liquid. Scientists who were looking to play a prank on their guests created spoons made of this mysterious metal and give them to guests to stir their tea with. When the tea heated the spoon above body temperature, the spoon would melt. Contained in the title of each chapter is a list of different elements which will probably cause someone not already familiar with the periodic table to be confused at first. As the chapter proceeds, each element is woven into the fabric of the stories that make up the chapter. The stories of each chapter fit together like a puzzle, feeling like a journey through a previously undiscovered corner of our universe. Kean does a remarkable job distilling the beautiful chaos that makes up quantum physics into language that anyone can read and understand. Kean then elegantly incorporates those difficult topics into chapters in a way that makes the book read more like science fiction than about events
May 2, 2019
9
CREATIVE
COLIN’S COLUMN: “We’re in the Endgame now” By: Colin Bauer Staff Writer
Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner Director: Anthony & Joe Russo Synopsis: This epic film is a culmination of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s previous 11 years of films. With Tony Stark left adrift in space, he sends word to Pepper Potts letting her know he’s alive. Elsewhere, the remaining superheroes from 2018’s Avengers: Infinity War attempt to form a solution to restore the world to the way it was before Thanos brought everything to a living hell. Review: Walking into Avengers: Endgame, audience members are able to realize how much of a finale and endgame the film truly is. From and the longest in the Marvel start to finish, this three-hour epic franchise. After sifting through takes audiences on an emotion- some of the drawn-out sequences al journey unlike any other. The in Infinity War, the Russo brothers movie accomplishes this task by were able to pinpoint everything its story, pacing, cinematography, that was necessary to conclude any direction, and performances. storylines. This film never overCulminating stays its welcome and the three after 11 years hours pass by with ease as the stoof 21 films, ry moves along quite fluently. Marvel Studios With epic action sequences knew exactly comes the need for epic camera how shots. Being shot in the IMAX everything- format, certain scenes were put needed to together specifically to draw auconverge. diences in and show how massive Without spoiling any- this film is, given its estimated thing, this film takes $350-$400 million dollar budget. every Marvel If there's one element that this film movie before it and never sacrifices on, it's the action. brings it all together, It is honestly breathtaking to betruly illustrating how each hold. movie was vital in leading The direction of the Russo up to the endgame. Even films brothers showcases their impecthat didn’t seem significant such cable talent as filmmakers. To be as 2013’s Thor: The Dark World able to bring to life such memoand 2015’s Avengers: Age of Ul- rable characters and tell deeply tron become quite relevant in this moving stories is something that outing. Although these films were Hollywood doesn’t see every day. forgettable on their own, they are This dynamic duo will go down in crucial to the overall MCU plot. history as some of the greatest diLocking in at three hours and rectors of this generation because one minute long, this movie is one of their tireless effort to make sure of the longest films ever released they delivered an epic conclusion
9/10
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to what is now deemed “The Infinity Saga.” Audiences will clearly be able to tell why the brothers felt it necessary to film the movie the way they did and why they incorporated so much into a three-hour film that fit together so well. With so much to write about for this movie, I would be remiss without mentioning the performances of the characters. The film focuses on the main characters from 2012’s The Avengers. Each hero truly has an arc in this movie and is able to get their moment in the spotlight. The performance that seemed to resonate the most with audience members was Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark. Downey was able to put heart and soul into his character and the series of films showcases a lot of character growth and development in Tony. Avengers: Endgame is a must see this spring and a great way to kick off the blockbuster season. No matter if you’ve followed this franchise closely since the start or it’s the first MCU film you see, this movie will truly resonate with you on a human level. Do yourself a favor and see the Endgame, but don’t spoil it for others!
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Ask the Economist In this column every week, readers ask their most private questions and get advice from an economics perspective. Need Advice? Write to Ask the Economist at estenardhudsonian@gmail.com You might see your question answered in the Hudsonian!
the other person your alter-ego, arch-nemesis or secret crush? Q. Dear Economist, Why are you letting this person Should I send flowers to myself? I have so much influence on you? am not crazy. Are you hoping for a particular re - Michelle action from them? Don’t pay extra for delivery. Con A. Dear Michelle, sider instead, buying a nice bouThe noticeable action of receiv- quet, bring it over to a friend and ing flowers tells me there must be have a visit with them. someone who you hope will notice when the delivery arrives. Is
Q. Dear Economist,
I was buying a pair of buds and one package had a pink ribbon on it while an identical pair didn’t have a pink ribbon. What’s up with that? - Susan A. Dear Susan The pink ribbon is ambiguous and
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has been used by devious merchandisers who differentiate their product by misrepresenting their part in the fight against breast cancer. You could read the fine print but it might not offer any clarity. I suggest separating your philanthropy and your shopping behavior. For a great analysis of charities go to www.charitynavigator.org, where every charity is graded on effectiveness and transparency. Thank you for supporting non-profits.
May 2, 2019
SPORTS
10
NBA Playoffs heat up with first round matchups By: Hunter McIntyre Sports Editor The first round of the NBA playoffs was filled with great individual performances and multiple unexpected outcomes. Going into the playoffs, the Oklahoma City Thunder were believed to take the series in a tough but predictable series with the Portland Trail Blazers. However this couldn't be farther from the truth as OKC was defeated in five games. The Thunder, led by point guard Russell Westbrook's 33 points and 11 assists only managed to take game three from the Blazers. In game five with the Blazers up 3-1 in the series, Damian Lillard made a deep three-point shot over Paul George with no time left on the clock to ice the series for the Blazers 118-115. "That's a bad, bad shot," I don't
care what anybody says. That's a bad shot. But hey, he made it. That story won't be told that it was a bad shot. We live with that," George said regarding the last second shot to win the game, according to ESPN. The Golden State Warriors also had their hands full with the Los Angeles Clippers. The Warriors were given a massive advantage over the Clippers before the series. The Clippers who really have no bona fide star pushed the star-studded Warriors to six games. In game one the Clippers guard Patrick Beverley and Warriors forward Kevin Durant were ejected after getting in an alteration. The whole game had been scrappy with multiple players barking at each other after the whistle and
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other players pushing each other. ''You know what he's going to bring to the table, just the physicality, mucking up the game a little bit with his physicality, his talking, everything. That's what he brings to each team he plays on. That's his identity. I know that coming into the series. I thought it was fun tonight.'' Durant said, according to NBA.com. In game three the clippers made the largest comeback in NBA history when Landry Shamet hit a go ahead three pointer with 16 seconds on the clock. They came back from a 31 point deficit to
beat the Warriors 135-131. However, Durant’s 50 point performance led the Warriors to defeat the Clippers by a score of 129-110. Another upset, according to Vegas, was the San Antonio Spurs vs. the Denver Nuggets. Denver was given the advantage in the matchup by a large margin but the Spurs managed to impressively push the Nuggets to seven games. Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets to victory in game seven recording a triple-double with 21 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists. The
Nuggets emerged victorious by a score of 90-86 in a close and hardfought game. The series was long and hard-fought to the end. ''I love the grit, the resiliency, the toughness we played with tonight, even late when they made their run ... we never lost our composure.'' Nuggets coach Michael Malone said, according to Pat Graham NBA.com. The first round was filled with surprises and performances that will be remembered for a long time. However, this is only the first round and there will be many more in the weeks to come.
Weekly Recap W
Baseball
April 16
Two wins vs Cayuga Community College W
Men’s Lacrosse
April 17
14-11to Finger Lakes Community College W
Baseball
April 18
One win and loss Cayuga Community College With a 20-9 record, the Baseball team is staying competitive and looking to carry their success into the playoffs
PHOTO BY STEPHEN BROKALIS
W
Men’s/Women’s Track and Field April 20 7/17 th for Women and 3/17th for Men
W
Men’s Golf
April 19/20
6th place at Mohawk and 4th place at Herkimer L
Men’s Lacrosse
April 20
18-2 to Onondaga Community College W The Men’s Lacrosse team had their 6 game win streak ended by Onondaga
In Issue 20, the Hudsonian stated that the College Suites were under new managment, but that statement is false. Managment remains the same and the Hudsonian apologizes to its readers.
Solution to Brain teaser and Riddles
1. Empty 2. A coffin 3. Fire Solution: You would reach into the box labeled ORANGES AND APPLES. Because the label is wrong, whatever fruit is in the box, it must be just that type of fruit only. Thus, if you reach in and pull out an apple, you can label that box APPLES. You know now that the box incorrectly labeled ORANGES must actually be APPLES AND ORANGES because it cannot be labeled correctly. The final box labeled APPLES must actually contain oranges since it is the last one left.
CORRECTION
PHOTO BY STEPHEN BROKALIS
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Baseball
April 23
Two wins vs Mohawk Valley Community College W
Baseball
April 25
Two wins vs Mohawk Valley Community College