The Chronicle - November 25, 2014

The Chronicle The weekly student newspaper of The College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York www.strosechronicle.com - @strosechronicle

November 25th, 2014

Albany High Hosts Curriculum Fair

Connor Trapatsos’s Body Found in Coeymans By laurEN SEarS News Editor and VaNESSa laNGDoN Staff Writer The Saint Rose freshman who had been missing for 36 days was found under a bridge 17 miles away from campus in Coeymans last Wednesday evening. Connor Trapatsos, 17, of Fairpoint, was last seen near the location where his body was found on Oct. 15 around 2:30 p.m.

President Stefanco addressed the identification of Trapatsos’s body late Thursday afternoon in an email to Saint Rose faculty,

VIA FACEBOOK

Connor Trapatsos, 17, of Fairpoint, was last seen near the location where his body was found on Oct. 15.

staff, administration, students, and parents.

“I am so sorry to inform you that the body discovered in Coeymans, New York, on Wednesday, November 19, has been identified as our missing student, Connor Trapatsos,” said Stefanco.

A service to honor Trapatsos’s life was held Thursday in the Hubbard Interfaith Sanctuary.

The service was only open to the campus community, and allowed students, staff, and administrators to join together for scripture readings, candle lighting, singing, and mourning. Rev. Christopher DeGiovine led a mass remembering Trapatsos on Sunday evening.

“We know you’re grieving along with us, and we feel your strength and it’s helping us get through this difficult time,” said LuAnn Trapatsos during an interview with WHEC-TV in Rochester on Friday.

Authorities confirmed the cause of death Thursday afternoon.

“The official cause of Trapatsos’s death was blunt force trauma to legs, pelvis, and left arm,” said Chief McKenna of the Coeymans Police Department. According to authorities, Trapatsos died the same day that he was last seen. Trapatsos’s body had been in Coeymans for approximately 5 weeks, according to McKenna.

Continued on Page A4

News & Features

Volume lxxxiii issue 15

By ViCToria aDDiSoN Sports Editor Parents and students gathered in the Albany High School auditorium Wednesday night for the second annual Curriculum Fair.

High school and eighth grade students had the chance to learn about the various educational programs Albany High has to offer.

The event began at 6:30 p.m. with an introduction from Principal Cecily Wilson-Turner, who briefed the audience on the main objective of the fair.

“What we have found over the last few years is that parents want more information about what courses are available to their students, what is required to take advantage of those courses, and how they can prepare their students to take advantage of those courses,” said Wilson-Turner. “That is how we came upon our curriculum information night, so that we have all of our departments here this evening to offer you more information to help you and your child help make an informed decision.”

Albany resident Anne Mahoney and her daughter, Julie,

who currently attends Myers Middle School, were among those in the crowd.

“We are very interested to find out about what’s coming up for next year. I think this event is a great idea,” said Mahoney.

Before exiting the auditorium, families were shown a video of current Albany High students who talked about reasons they like the school. Answers included the diversity that comes with attending a big school, to the many clubs and programs offered. Kim Continued on Page A4

Mock Trial Team Competes in Rochester Invitational

By CHriS loVEll Web Editor The Saint Rose National Mock Trial Team recently competed in the fifth annual Yellow Jackets Invitational hosted by the University of Rochester. This was the first invitational event attended by the Saint Rose team.

The Mock Trial team is made up of students from a variety of backgrounds. This year's captains are seniors Marissa Schatzel and Taylor Basford. The team includes seniors Ashley Arcuri and

Arts & Opinion

Lauren Minkoff, juniors Kyle Duclos, Lauren Modzelewski and Samantha Johnson, and sophomores Allee Von Stackelberg, Alyssa Rose, Meghan Hook, and Samantha Femia.

The team came together even before the start of the semester, starting its season with a meeting a week prior to the start of classes.

“These guys put a lot of preparation and effort into this, far beyond what is required for the number of credits that they are earning,” said Al Chapleau, the

faculty supervisor for the team.

The College's Mock Trial team competed against Bryant University, Canisius College, Case Western Reserve, and the host team from the University of Rochester using the case released by the American Mock Trial Association this past August.

Kyle Duclos, a junior studying forensic psychology, said that attending an invitational “is almost like being dropped into a war zone of sorts. We had to prepare an entire case in only two and a half months, as opposed to Continued on Page A4

Sports

New Concession Stand for Bleecker Stadium See page A5

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 1 See page B9

Porreca’s Picks See page D15

A Chapter Ending at Haddad Law See page A6

The Invisible Tragedy See page C11

Duke or Kentucky: Who Ya Got? See page D16

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News

The Chronicle

November 25th, 2014

Volume 83 Issue 15

The Weekly Wrap-Up Your Top 5 Stories from Friday to Sunday *Source: BBC News

Flood Warnings as Snow melts New York State officials are worried that, as the snow in the northeast region begins to melt, the area will be at risk for floods.

There are fears that several buildings may collapse when the rain comes. The snowstorms have been blamed for the deaths of 13 people so far, due to exposure and heart attacks while shoveling.

obama on immigration reform President Obama has stated that he will pursue greater immigration reform, although Republicans have taken issue with his use of executive power. The reforms will allow around four million undocumented immigrants to apply for work permits. This action is the biggest act of immigration reform since the 1980s.

Director mike Nichols dies at 83 Mike Nichols died of cardiac arrest last Wednesday. The German-born director is famous for the 1967 film The Graduate, for which he won an Oscar. Nichols’s last film was 2007’s Charlie Wilson’s War. He is survived by his wife, Diane Sawyer, and his three children.

Charles manson Granted marriage license Charles Manson, 80, has been granted a marriage license to marry 26-year-old Afton Elaine Burton, a woman who has visited him in prison.

Burton says that she loves Manson and that he is innocent.

Manson is not able to apply for parole until 2027.

Forty-five Dead at Afghan Volleyball Game Officials say that 45 people were killed in a suicide bombing at a volleyball tournament in eastern Afghanistan.

Around 60 people were injured in the attack.

The bomber detonated the bomb in the middle of a crowd waiting to watch a game.

Pics of the Week

Saint Rose students at the SA sponsored outing to Flight Trampoline Park.

Elvis Morales competing in a game of dodgeball at Flight Trampoline Park.

CHRIS ALVARADO

CHRIS ALVARADO

*INFORMATION PROVIDED BY WEATHER.COM

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November 25th, 2014

Volume 83 Issue 15

In Brief

News

Teen Arrested in Shots Fired Incident

A 15-year-old Albany teen has been arrested in connection with the shots fired incident on North Lake Avenue.

At approximately 4:00 p.m. on Nov. 20, 2014 officers responded to a report of shots fired in the North Lake Avenue and Washington Avenue area. Officers col-

lected evidence that was consistent with gun shots.

The suspect was stopped by officers in association with the investigation, where he was identified as the suspect and taken into custody.

He has been charged with second degree Criminal Posses-

The Chronicle

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Calendar of Events Tuesday, November 25th 7 p.m. Girls 4 God Meeting Hubbard Library 7:30 p.m Saint Rose Knight Club Bru; Saint Rose Room 8:15 p.m Golden Knights Dance Practice EAC Rm 110 8:00 p.m Yoga for Students Hubbard Sanctuary

sion of a Weapon and first degree Reckless Endangerment. The suspect later admitted to officers that he was involved in a fight were he fired a handgun. He is scheduled to appear in Albany County Family Court.

No injuries were reported in the incidents.

Wednesday, November 26th College Closed for Thanksgiving Break Thursday, November 27th College Closed for Thanksgiving Break Friday, November 28th College Closed for Thanksgiving Break

The Chronicle and BlueShield Albany Devils Event

Saturday, November 29th College Closed for Thanksgiving Break Sunday, November 30th College Closed for Thanksgiving Break

If you have an upcoming event you would like to see in our weekly Calendar of Events, please e-mail chronicle@strose.edu.

Correction

Ashley Sweet

The Chronicle

On Friday, Nov. 21 The Chronicle and BlueShield of Northeastern New York partnered to raffle off tickets to the Albany Devils versus Scranton Penguins game at the Times Union Center.

Alissa Petsche, Chris Lovell, and Carolynn Bruni were each the recipients of four tickets.

Executive Editor Conor Shea ‘15 sheac613@strose.edu

Features Editor Alexander Wheeler ‘16 wheelera982@strose.edu

Business Manager Ashley Sweet ‘15 sweeta984@strose.edu

Managing Editor Rachel Bolton ‘15 boltonr413@strose.edu

Opinion Editor Katie Klimacek‘17 klimacekk546@strose.edu

Advertising Manager Ashley Sweet ‘15 sweeta984@strose.edu

Alyssa Haddad

News Editor Lauren Sears ‘15 searsl534@strose.edu

Arts Editor Alexander Pecha ‘17 pechaa188@strose.edu

Web Editor Christopher Lovell ‘14 lovellc083@strose.edu

Matt Woods

Layout Editor Jennifer O’Connor ‘16 oconnorj984@strose.edu

Sports Editor Victoria Addison ‘17 addisonv653@strose.edu

Head Photographer Chris Alvarado‘15 alvaradoc822@strose.edu

Jacob Barkman

Assistant Layout Editor Whitney Dobladillo ‘15 dobladillow942@strose.edu

Copy Editor Jenessa Matis ‘14 matisj311@strose.edu

Faculty Adviser Cailin Brown

The Veterans Day photo spread on page A9 of the Nov. 18 edition depicted the event inaccurately. The photo with the caption “Lance-Corporal Terry and Cadet Jordan raising the flag,” in its original form depicted Saint Rose professor Frank Fitzgerald’s window display of the American flag flying union down.

To ensure maximum clarity of the foreground content, the image was digitally adjusted in such a way that inadvertantly removed detail from Professor Fitzgerald’s flag. This unintentional error depicted the event without the proper context. Readers may request to be sent the original image in its unedited form via email at chronicle@strose.edu.

Staff Writers

ANY student can join The Saint Rose Chronicle

Katherine Bakaitis Kaylynn Day Vanessa Langdon Nicholas Negron Nicole Baker Alex Horton Adriana Rosales Staff Photographers Adriana Rosales Nina Buonarota

The Chronicle is published weekly on Tuesdays during the academic year and once during the summer months. The Chronicle is published at the facilities of New England Newspapers in Pittsfield, M.A.

Official E-mail Address Chronicle@strose.edu

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Mailing Address The Saint Rose Chronicle 432 Western Avenue Albany, NY 12203

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All articles, advertisements and Letters to the Editor are due by midnight the Friday prior to publication.

All advertising inquiries should be sent to Advertising Ashley Sweet at sweeta984@strose.edu. The Chronicle offers free black and white 5-by-3 in. ads to student-run organizations.

The Chronicle accepts Letters to the Editor from any party. We recommend that submissions not exceed 1000 words. Letters, columns, and cartoons published in this newspaper represent the opinion of the author, not necessarily that of The Chronicle.

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The Chronicle

News

November 25th, 2014

Volume 83 Issue 15

Connor Trapatsos’s Body Found in Coeymans

Continued From Page A1 His body was discovered by CSX employees working in the area on Wednesday afternoon.

Trapatsos studied mathematics at the College. Trapatsos’s family told police after his disappearance that it was normal for Connor to spend time alone and that it was not out of character for him to be withdrawn, but that he had no history of mental illness.

“My message for students is, it’s your life. Don’t live it for anyone else but yourself. Do what makes you happy,” said Mrs. Tra-

patsos to WHEC-TV on Friday.

Trapatsos lived in Brubacher Hall, on campus. His roommate first noticed that the teen did not return to their room Wednesday, Oct. 15. The roommate alerted the College on Friday Oct. 17.

At that point, the entire campus and the surrounding areas were searched.

Authorities have been looking for Trapatsos since he left his dorm room at 10 a.m. that Wednesday. The investigation was led by State University at Albany Police.

A New York State Missing College Student Notification was released throughout the state, notifying police and hospitals about Trapatsos. Email and roadside messaging were also used to notify the public in tandem with printed notices to businesses and residents near the Saint Rose campus.

The investigators were in contact with the Trapatsos family throughout the investigation.

Counselors will be available as needed or by individual appointment, including evening

hours. Students, faculty, staff and administrators can call the College’s Counseling Center at 518454-5200 for hours or to schedule an appointment during this difficult time.

“I do think it is appropriate to spend time discussing the situation and gauging student reaction,” said Jay Hamer, director of counseling services for Saint Rose.

Readers can express their condolences to the Trapatsos family by using the #findTrapper hashtag on Facebook and Instagram.

UNIVERSITY AT ALBANY PD

Connor Trapatsos was last seen alive at Crossgates Commons Plaza via security camera footage.

Albany High Hosts Curriculum Fair Continued From Page A1 Baker, a guidance counselor, followed the video with a discussion of a typical student schedule and the classes that are available to fill each class period.

Potential students then had the opportunity to interact with teachers and current students as the crowd moved from the auditorium to the second floor hallway, which was lined with tables offering information about the many programs at Albany High.

The tables showcased core and

advanced placement classes, the International Baccalaureate program, as well as the many Career and Technical Education programs offered at the Abrookin campus.

“I think it’s important for the students to know their options of what they can take and that there’s not one set pathway for them,” said Erin Erickson, a math teacher at the school. “[The fair] helps prepare students to sign up for classes next year,” said Patrick Whitton, an

automotive teacher at Abrookin.

“It helps showcase all the programs that Albany High has to offer.”

Apart from teachers, current students and junior and senior class representatives were also at the event, fundraising and available to answer any questions sent their way.

Emily Andrews, a senior and current AP chemistry student, discussed the many programs offered by the school. Andrews admitted that her parents were

originally hesitant about sending her to Albany High, but could not pass up on the opportunity once they found out about the many classes the school has to offer.

Andrews takes full advantage of the AP courses offered, and has taken many during her high school career.

“I feel so blessed because a lot of schools consider these AP classes to be honor classes, but the fact that they are the normal classes for kids to take here makes me feel so much more pre-

pared,” said Andrews.

Senior class president Kori Dobbs feels that Albany High has helped her find herself, something that most people say usually happens in college.

“It’s a great opportunity to come to Albany High,” said Dobbs, “Like when people say ‘you find yourself in college,’ you can really find yourself in high school just by joining a club or making a new group of friends, it’s a great opportunity to come to this school.”

Mock Trial Team Competes in Rochester Invitational Continued From Page A1 the nearly six months we have to prepare for the national competition.”

When a team arrives at the invitational, it knows what case it will be trying, but it only finds out which side of the case it is going to be supporting less than an hour before the trial starts.

“It’s a very intensive process,” Chapleau noted, because the team needs to be able to try the case in any possible permutation that could arise.

The Mock Trial Team ranked

16th out of 22 competing teams, ranking above Bryant University, Swathmore College, Amherst College, Willams College, Case Western Reserve, and Canisius College. “We are on our way up,” said Chapleau.

The team views its work at the invitational as a learning experience. Captain Marissa Schatzel said, “We learned everything we need to work on.” The team will use its experience from the invitational to prepare for its next competition in January.

Stackleberg said that the big-

gest thing that she took away from the competition was confidence.

“You have to really be able to think on your feet. It’s something where you have an idea of how it is going to go, and it could completely change and you still have to be confident in what you are saying.”

Winning the case is not the only accomplishment that can be achieved during competition.

Alyssa Rose’s work as a witness in the competition won her the Outstanding Witness Award with

18 ranks, the first award to be given to the Saint Rose National Mock Trial Team.

The Saint Rose Mock Trial Team is always looking for new members to join the team. The program is open to any major at the school, including those who are particularly interested in going to law school.

For more information about joining the Mock Trial Team, contact Alfred Chapleau, assistant professor of criminal justice at chapleaa@strose.edu

SAMANTHA JOHNSON

Alyssa Rose won the Outstanding Witness Award.

News A5 Booster Club: New Concession Stand for Bleecker Stadium

November 25th, 2014

Volume 83 Issue 15

By Journalism II The concession stand at Bleecker Stadium is not meeting the needs of volunteers and patrons. Albany High School, Green Tech, and the Albany Twilight League use the fields there for football and baseball games. Now that the teams are out of season, the Albany High School Booster Club wants the city to take action on a plan that was submitted for a new concession stand.

The current stand, built over 40 years ago, is a mere 10 by 12 feet inside. The cinder block hut, assembled in the 1970s by a sum-

mer youth program, lacks room for volunteers to move around and makes it difficult to store the necessary equipment.

The structure is in disrepair.

The floor is falling apart, the service window is inconvenient, and the interior is not clean.

“I do believe the city health department would condemn it if they actually inspected it,” said Cyndy Allen, president of the Albany Booster Club.

“It is in very poor condition,” said Dan Egan, a member of the Albany Booster Club. “Frankly, it is disgraceful.”

The club has estimated it

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would cost between $20,000 and said. $30,000 to build the proposed According to Egan, Sheehan stand. Architectural plans for and her administration have been the new stand were donated by very supportive. Calls to the mayMarilyn Kaplan, of Preservation or’s office from The Pine Hills Architecture in Albany. That plan blog were not returned. calls for a bigger building that “The previous administration would include 24 by 16 feet of was not helpful,” Egan said. The space for more counters, an is- new city leaders, however, “want land, three service windows, and to help.” storage areas.

The site was Local busioriginally a resnesses and alum- “With a bigger stand ervoir back in ni of Albany 1850, and was and two service High have alconverted to an ready shown in- windows, we’d be able athletic stadium terest in helping to cut the lines in half by Mayor John with the project.

Boyd Thacher “We al- while offering a wider in 1928, and ready have an opened in 1934 variety of food.” anonymous doon Thanksgiving Dan Egan nor putting up – some 80 years $10,000,” said ago, next ThursEgan. “Money is day. the least of my worries.”

The stadium is not listed on the The ABC has been in talks with state’s historic registry, but, said city officials, including Mayor Elisabeth Draper, deputy comKathy Sheehan and John Reilly, missioner for the city’s Departof the city’s Corporation Counsel. ment of Parks and Recreation, “We’re working with the cor- the park is “eligible for nominaporation counsel to craft a legal tion.” One of the proposals from agreement, because it’s a city the Booster Club locates the new park and a historic site,” Egan concession stand in a berm- the

Vanessa Langdon

The current concession stand at Bleecker Stadium, with inoperable grill.

Alex Horton

Albany Booster Club member Dan Egan has been an integral part of the push for a new concession stand. side of a hill. That plan, said Draper, “would have involved compromising historic resources of the park.”

While the Corporation Counsels have seen the plans, the Department of Parks and Recreation has not yet reviewed them.

Conditions at other concession stands in the city – including those at some little leagues, and Babe Ruth – are much better, have more space, and better accommodations.

“With a bigger stand and two service windows, we’d be able to cut the lines in half while offering a wider variety of food. We’d sell more food and merchandise and raise a lot more money for a wonderful cause,” said Egan.

Now, he said, “the teams cannot raise money even though people are willing to give.”

Researched, reported, and written by: Paige DeSorbo, Alexander Horton, Vanessa Langdon, and Jessica LePore

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News

The Chronicle

November 25th, 2014

Volume 83 Issue 15

A Chapter Ending at Haddad Law

By JESSiCa lEPorE Staff Writer After 40 years of practicing law and maintaining a business in the Pine Hills neighborhood, Edward Haddad will be retiring and handing over his firm at exactly 2:30 p.m. on Feb. 18.

The Edward S. Haddad Law Firm, at 810 Madison Ave., is owned by Haddad, a sole practitioner. He knew the Pine Hills area was a good fit for what he wanted to do.

The law firm is active with real estate and corporate commercial work now, but has also handled a variety of cases, including domestic relations issues.

In recent years, Haddad has spent more time working on foreclosures and evictions because of the struggling economy.

About five minutes from the firm, Michelle Hill, property manager for Central Towers, is

always satisfied with the eviction work that Haddad does for her and said she has been working with him ever since she started five and a half years ago.

“I love Ed. He is really good at what he does. He is fair, you know, he is very down to earth,” Hill said.

Leesa Bedore, an employee who has been handling the bank closings and title work that comes in for almost 20 years, said that the firm does commercial real estate as well.

Originally from Elmira, about 192 miles west of Albany, Haddad graduated from Albany Law School in 1974 and is teaching continuing legal education courses now. He said that he has learned more from teaching than when he actually took the classes.

He first practiced downtown for eight years, before he bought his Madison location near the intersection of Madison Avenue

“I love Ed. He is really good at what he does. He is fair, you know, he is very down to earth.”

Leesa Bedore

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Ed Haddad in front of his firm in the Pine Hills neighborhood. and Yates Street.

“The price was right on the building, and it was convenient to the courts, and it had parking.

Essentially, an attorney is not re-

ally location specific,” Haddad said. “It’s not like having a storefront, where you are going to get customers from the street. Not many are from seeing the sign out front, so it doesn't matter.”

H a d d a d earned his Bachelor of Science and Business with a minor in economics from LeMoyne College in Syracuse.

Haddad has developed a healthy practice, although he didn’t always know he wanted to practice law.

“Even in my senior year [of college], I wasn’t sure what direction I was taking,” Haddad said.

After graduating from Le Moyne, he applied to a number of law schools.

“Law came in and I said what

JESSICA LEPORE

the heck, why not law school? It felt where I belonged,” Haddad said.

When Haddad retires in three months, his firm will continue on under Pamela M. Robish-Wright, a lawyer who has worked with the firm for four years.

Haddad plans to occasionally stay involved, and will maintain his license and visit the courts from time to time, but mostly, he plans to travel.

“I am putting together a scuba diving trip in Grand Cayman for the spring,” Haddad said. “I want to see the countries on my bucket list. Italy, Greece, Australia, I want to see the Hawaiian Islands.”

“The price was right on the building, and it was convenient to the courts, and it had parking.”

Edward Haddad

November 25th, 2014

Volume 83 Issue 15

Arts

The Chronicle

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Top of the Week For Nov. 17 - 22 Movies at the Box Office

TV Shows

1. Dumb and Dumber To (36.1M) 2. Big Hero 6 (34.7M) 3. Interstellar (28.M) 4. Beyond the Lights (6.2M) 5. Gone Girl (4.6M) 6. St. Vincent (3.8M) 7. Fury (3.8M) 8. Ouija (3.0M) 9. Nightcrawler (2.9M) 10. Birdman (2.5M)

1. NBC Sunday Night Football 2. Sunday Night NFL Pre-Kick 3. NCIS 4. NCIS: New Orleans 5. The Big Bang Theory 6. 60 Minutes 7. Dancing With The Stars 8. Football Night In America 9. Madam Secretary 10. The OT

*Source: RottenTomatoes.com

*Source: Nielsen.com

Books

Music

Fiction: 1. Revival (Stephen King) 2. Gray Mountain (John Grisham) 3. Flesh and Blood (Patricia Cornwell) 4. The Burning Room (Michael Connelley) 5. Blue Labyrinth (Douglas Preston)

Albums: 1. 1989 (Taylor Swift) 2. Sonic Highways (Foo Fighters) 3. The Endless River (Pink Floyd) 4. Cadillactica (Big K.R.I.T.) 5. Nick Jonas (Nick Jonas) Songs: 1. Blank Space (Taylor Swift) 2. All About That Bass (Meghan Trainor) 3. Shake It Off (Taylor Swift) 4. Animals (Maroon 5) 5. Habits (Tove Lo)

Non-Fiction: 1. 41 (George W Bush) 2. Killing Patton (Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard) 3. Yes Please (Amy Poehler) 4. The Andy Cohen Diaries (Andy Cohen) 5. Small Victories (Anne Lamott) *Source: New York Times Best Sellers

*Source: Billboard.com

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Arts

The Chronicle

November 25th, 2014

Volume 83 Issue 15

Award Great or Award Bait?

Michael Keaton Soars in Birdman

By Alexander Wheeler Features Editor and Joseph Conway Staff Writer Is a film made to entertain or to win awards? Does it happen to be entertaining and also award worthy? Alexander Wheeler and Joseph Conway are here to answer those questions in this week’s edition of “Award Great or Award Bait” Birdman (or The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) is currently the frontrunner for this year’s awards circuit – with many critics thinking it can win Picture, Director, Actor, Original Screenplay and many more awards. The film stars Michael Keaton, Edward Norton, Emma Stone, Zach Galifianakis and Naomi Watts.

Alexander’s Opinion Directed by Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu (Babel, Biutiful),

Birdman is an extraordinary cinematic accomplishment featuring a tour-de-force from Michael Keaton (Beetlejuice, Tim Burton’s Batman and Batman Returns, White Noise), exemplary cinematography from Emmanuel Lubezki (Gravity) and a strict vision from Inarritu.

The film’s cinematography and editing make the film feel like one long take – which is brilliant, considering that the film takes place in a theater and is centered on a play written by Keaton’s character – simulating a play of sorts, because plays are essentially one long take. Together, the cinematography and editing make this film so tight that it is hard to criticize the style and presentation. However, the tightness of the shots create an almost uncomfortable closeness to the actors on screen that may not be for everyone.

Together, the screenplay and the performance given by Keaton help to elevate this extremely

Wikimedia Commons

Michael Keaton plays the lead role in Birdman.

artsy and stylish film. During my viewing of this film, I was strongly reminded of Darren Aronofsky’s The Wrestler in regards to how the character in the film was ultimately reflective of the actor playing him – in that case, Mickey Rourke.

The film was made to seem like it was one shot. This means that there seemingly were not cuts or transitions in the film.

In this film, Keaton plays a washed-up actor who is attempting to create a new identity for himself within a play, much like how the real life Keaton is trying to re-enter the film business with Birdman. The story and actor are matched up so perfectly that the film syncs up wonderfully and connects with the audience in a very absorbable way.

All of this being said, I don’t think that this film could effectively connect with a wide audience; therefore I am sadly going to deem this film Award Bait.

Joseph’s Opinion The film features an amazing ensemble of actors, including Emma Stone, Zach Galifianakis and Edward Norton, and the film is enhanced by Emmanuel Lubezki’s cinematography and Antonio Sanchez’s score. Birdman is a unique film that in many areas may be award worthy.

An interesting aspect of the movie was the cinematography.

The film was made to seem like it was one shot. This means that there were seemingly no cuts or transitions in the film. Some films

may not be able to pull this off – it can seem weird or clunky – but cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki makes it nice and smooth.

This technique may just give him a chance at Oscar Gold, as this sort of camera work will surely make Birdman stand out from the competition.

One of the other strengths of the film was the cast. It is led by a career-revitalizing performance from Michael Keaton that can only be compared to a phoenix rising from the ashes. Known for his work as Batman in the ‘80s and ‘90s, Keaton’s career slowed down after he left the Batman series after the second film. Keaton has recently had several smaller parts in movies such as The Other Guys and Need for Speed, but with Birdman he now has a chance at a storybook comeback.

In the film, Keaton plays a character that must be close to his heart; his character, Riggan Thomson, is a washed-up actor who once played a superhero named Birdman, but gave it up after the third movie. Now Thomson seeks redemption through a Broadway play that he wrote, directed and stars in. Keaton, perhaps due to his connection to the character, puts on a masterful performance, but he is not alone.

Zack Galifianakis’ performance stands out because he is generally serious during the movie, which completely goes against his usual wacky performances.

Edward Norton plays an arrogant actor who is often a thorn in Riggan Thomson’s side. Emma Stone plays Thomson’s sarcastic daughter who is fresh out of rehab. The entire cast works so well together and makes the film a very enjoyable experience.

Birdman will likely be in contention for several awards early next year. Though many will be nominated, I believe that Michael Keaton will have the best chance at a victory come Oscar season.

Wikimedia Commons

Edward Norton co-stars in Birdman as Mike Shiner.

This movie does a lot of things well, but in the end this film thrives because of Michael Keaton’s magnificent performance and would die without it.

Overall This was the first film that we were split on. Alexander’s argument favors Birdman as a film in that it is an extraordinary feat and is extremely enjoyable. However, due to his opinion that it may not connect with a wide audience, he has decided to label Birdman as Award Bait.

Joseph believes that the film thrives mostly because of Keaton’s performance, but due to a plethora of other powerful aspects of the film, he has decided to label Birdman an Award Great.

Alexander’s Predictions Picture, Director, Actor, Supporting Actor, Supporting Actress, Original Screenplay, Cinematography, Editing Joseph’s Predictions Picture, Director, Actor, Supporting Actor, Supporting Actress, Cinematography, Score

November 25th, 2014

Arts

Volume 83 Issue 15

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 1

By NiCHolaS NEGroN Staff Writer The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 1 premiered last weekend. This science fiction adventure was met with the franchise’s lowest critical response yet.

Rotten Tomatoes reported a 69 percent approval rating for the film. To put this in perspective, the first and second films in the series received an 84 percent and an 89 percent, respectively. The still positive, yet seemingly unexpected critical response comes from the decision of the film’s producer and director, Nina Jacobson and Francis Lawrence, to split Mockingjay into two different films. Many feel as if the book would have been better represented in one full-length film extending from Katniss’s time in District 13 through the epilogue. “ is only half Awesome,” says Justin Craig of FoxNews.com. Craig calls the movie “incomplete” but recognizes how dynamic and luring the plotline is. Other critics were not as forgiving.

“Disappointingly bland and unnecessarily protracted…like a manufactured product through

and through, ironic and sad given its revolutionary theme,” says Todd McCarthy of The Hollywood Reporter.

Mockingjay, Part 1 differs from the previous two films in its maturity and depth. The split gives the audience a chance to explore the different facets of the revolution in Panem. Multiple scenes show district rebels defying peacekeepers. These revolts are inspired by the various propaganda moves made in District 13, featuring the motivational Mockingjay, Katniss Everdeen. Played

by Jennifer Lawrence, Katniss sings in one of the most visually compelling scenes in the film.

She sings “The Hanging Tree,” a song her father taught her. This is only after the mute Pollux coaxes her to do so. She does so while staring out at the beautiful, clear lakefront. This is filmed and turned into propaganda that becomes the “theme song” of the revolution, along with Rue’s whistle. While the film is still largely focused on Katniss, the audience is able to better grasp the political unrest of Panem through the guerrilla warfare in the districts.

Katniss and Gale’s relationship is explored in the film, as Liam Hemsworth finally gets his opportunity to be a leading man in the franchise. Gale is fully convinced that war is necessary and gets very upset, along with all of District 13, when Peeta calls for

a ceasefire on Capitol television.

Katniss’s main goal since the previous film has been to keep Peeta alive. She is upset at rebellion conspirators, specifically Haymitch and Plutarch Heavensbee, for not rescuing Peeta in the arena. Peeta does allude to this being his own fault. In the arena, Peeta was against splitting from their allies as Katniss had hoped to do. In a Capitol interview, he cites this as being the reason why they are not together at this very moment. Katniss still attempts to keep Peeta safe from her place in District 13. She only agrees to be the Mockingjay if Peeta and all other victors are granted immunity in this war.

“A lot happens in the Mockingjay book, and to try to cram it all into one movie, I think we would have never had the time to spend with the relationships and with the characters,” said producer Nina Jacobson to Hero Complex.

Jacobson is certainly correct.

If Mockingjay were made into one film, there would be little time to balance the civil war in the districts with establishing the new setting of District 13 and the characters the come along with it.

The main consensus of critics was that while Part 1 is a unique film, it is only “a placeholder,” as Peter Rainer of The Christian Science Monitor puts it. It prepares us for the spectacular finale yet to come.

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Jennifer Lawrence plays Katniss in the Hunger Games movies.

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B9

How Taylor Swift Broke the Internet

By CoDY aVDEK Staff Writer

I cannot say that I’m a Taylor Swift fan. I’ve never quite caught on to the hype of her music, although I have to say lately I’ve become a fan of her attitude.

While the die-hards cry “sellout” due to her new pop sound, I have to bring up that she was always a pop artist, just pop in a different subgenre.

But her new sound isn’t why she’s been in the news lately. She has instead become very relevant for pulling her music from the popular music-streaming service Spotify. This has called to debate her moral focus, the greed of her label, Spotify’s ethics, and a whole other mess of issues.

Speaking from the artist’s perspective, however, Spotify’s payment system is honestly insulting.

According to their own site, Spotify Artists, the site pays roughly $0.007 per play. This is shockingly low, and has prompted many people to boycott the service, saying that it cannibalizes music purchasing.

The even more bizzare thing is that this isn’t the first time an artist has done this. Thom Yorke, of Radiohead fame, has removed his solo work from the service as well. The Black Keys have refused to put full albums on the service because of this.

Spotify’s royalty payments also represent a threat to independent artists. Musicians such as Erin McKeown have stated that they fear people won’t buy their music when it can be listened to it for free on Spotify, despite the service claiming that it discourages pirating.

More than anything, Swift’s pulling of her music represents a greater understanding in the public eye of just how big a problem musicians have getting paid. It calls to attention the idea of being paid an insultingly low amount of money, or simply not being paid for your work at all.

Musicians, much like any other artist, are often expected to not make money off of performances, sound recordings, and often engineering and promoting. Any musician will tell you numerous stories of how they ended up losing money on a tour, were paid in free drinks, were paid with dinner, simply weren’t paid, etc.

There are a million stories.

When you apply this perspective to any other profession, it seems silly. Would you ask a lawyer for free legal counsel because they weren’t well known? When was the last time you hear a surgeon say that they perform “as a hobby?” So why is this common for artists? The only difference is that the arts aren’t considered “hard” or “actual work” by many people, which is an extremely dubious claim, at best.

Spotify represents everything wrong with this idea. It technically pays its artists, so people can use the service guilt-free of piracy. This soft-pirating is almost more damaging to the industry, as it allows people to take in the art without any investment. It’s barely one step up from services such as Napster and Limewire, yet is completely legal because it pretends to support the people it makes money off of. To put the figures in perspective, the amount of money Taylor Swift has made off of Spotify in the last 12 months equates to roughly 50,000 album sales. Given an artist of her status, that is criminally unrepresentative of her fame and just how much of her music has been played on their service.

Taylor Swift won’t have to worry about paying her rent next month. Unless she spirals out of control, I doubt she’ll have to worry about money for the foreseeable future. However, this move of hers has done a lot to inform people of just how bad things are for musical artists. This isn’t greed, and this isn’t being spoiled. This is standing up for what’s right for artists.

B10

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Arts

November 25th, 2014

A Night on Jay Street The Midnight Launch of Pokémon Omega Ruby

By RYAN GEEVER Staff Writer On the eve of Nov. 21, a few friends and I had the joy of attending the midnight launch of both Pokémon Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire and Super Smash Bros For Wii U at Jay Street Video Games in Colonie Center.

There was a similar event being held in GameStop, but we all preferred to help out the local business rather than feed GameStop more money that it can use to not pay its employees.

Opinions on GameStop aside, I had a blast attending this event.

We arrived a little early, since we took the bus, which brought us to Colonie Center at about 11ish. We then got to experience a creepy walk through the closed mall while this eerie Christmas-like musicbox tune played over the speakers. We stumbled through the makeshift horror scene, worried that some escaped serial killer dressed like Santa Claus was going to pop out and off us one by one.

We reached the corner of Jay Street and it seemed to glow with

some sort of magic, as it was the only store open on the entire first floor of the mall. It radiated happiness, whilst everything else around it just reeked of loneliness and the coming Christmas season.

To some people, games are just games; just like to other people, music is just music.

Walking into Jay Street, we realized we had about an hour to burn before the actual launch.

Luckily for us, one of the workers at Jay Street had brought his Wii U and set up a copy of Smash Bros for people to play until the game officially launched. As a big selling point, Super Smash Bros For Wii U contains a mode where up to eight players can smash at the same time, and without going into much of a review, it’s complete chaos and absolutely as much fun as it sounds.

We played Smash for the entirety of the hour, having fun with people who we hardly knew, all coming together as one Smash community. It was strange, because the time just sort of melted away, and I honestly didn’t want to stop to actually purchase the game. I’d gone to the Super Smash Bros for 3DS launch about a month prior, also at Jay Street, and I remember practically counting down the seconds until launch. Fast forward a month, and the time was the furthest thing from my mind. That just goes to show how time really does fly when you are having a blast connecting with those around you.

Of course, the fun eventually had to end, and the line started to form for the release. As one session of fun ended, another began, and anticipation formed in my chest. It’s been six years since the launch of the last Smash Bros game, and three years since this one was announced.

For the past half decade, I’ve been chanting for a remake of the Hoenn Pokémon games, and finally I stood in line, about to get both of them simultaneously.

RYAN GEEVER

Nintendo fans gathered at Jay Street in Colonie for the release of two brand-new games.

Volume 83 Issue 15

Courtney Bernardo

From left to right: Chris Peña, Courtney Bernardo, Ryan Geever, and John Knutti show off their purchases.

Part of it felt like a dream, like I’d been waiting for so long for them that as soon as I grabbed the bag, everything would dissipate and I’d wake up. Another part of me was a little confused that I’d felt so attached to software, to bits and pieces of data that I hadn’t even come into contact with yet.

But that’s the thing. A big part of why I have been so excited for these two games is because they have heavily influenced who I am. Seeing the next Smash come out, along with a remake of my favorite Pokémon game, is a nice nod to what I played when I was younger, and a promising look at what I will continue to play as time goes by.

To some people, games are games, just like to others, music is just music. But in that moment, standing in line at that night at Jay

Street, I understood that I was reconnecting with a piece of myself that hadn’t been around in awhile.

It’s a piece created by the experiences I’ve had going through Hoenn or sending Pikachu flying off-screen.

Jay Street Video Games’ midnight launch created a lot of things, and it’s really not specific to Jay Street, to be honest.

That’s just where I experienced it. It helped me form new friendships with the people I played Smash with and talked with (and also with the friends I’d gone with, of course.) It brought years of excitement and pining to a nice close, bringing new experiences of old tales to a new generation, and finally, it brought me joy. Pure, abiding joy and pride in being a gamer.

Gotta Smash ‘Em All.

For the past half decade, I’ve been chanting for a remake of the Hoenn Pokémon games.

C11 Opinion Alumni Perspective Some MuchThe Invisible Tragedy Needed Advice

November 25th, 2014

By NATHANIEL MYERS Staff Writer

I did not know you personally.

As word spread late Thursday afternoon of the passing of Connor Trapatsos, one ominous theme was noticeable. While genuine sympathy and prayer were sent in the direction of his family, few could comment on having any interaction at all with the young man. This disconnect is one that has stayed on my mind since the news broke, and has led to the realization that death itself brings both seen and unseen tragedy.

If anything, the roommate deserves praise for notifying the school of a possible missing person when he did.

The obvious tragedy in his untimely passing is how it affects those who cared for him the most. There simply are no words you can say to a grieving mother, father, or sibling to heal the wound when their loved one is ripped away from the world.

The circumstances surrounding Connor’s passing make that wound even larger and deeper. It makes one’s heart heavy knowing that for a full month, they hoped each day that thier son or brother would come home.

They are deserving of our utmost sympathy and respect, and should not be forgotten in these trying times.

This sympathy should also be extended to two other individuals: his roommate, and his RA. Some on social media have felt that the roommate is deserving of some sort of blame for notifying the school two days after Connor left. Those comments are harsh and inappropriate.

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Volume 83 Issue 15

I can think of plenty freshmen who would have failed to say anything at all for a week or even longer. It is also important to remember that there are guys who are more apt to “head out” for long periods of time, and that we usually just assume that they will find their way back eventually. If anything, the roommate deserves praise for notifying the school of a possible missing person when he did.

In a similar vein, some may believe that the R.A. did not do his job in checking up on Connor. This, too, is unfair criticism.

Anyone who is familiar with that R.A. knows that he is a man of utmost character, generosity, and respect, one who would be devastated if anything happened to his residents. If he was even aware of an issue before Connor left the school (and I do not believe he was) I have no doubt that he did all he could to help out.

But beyond the effect that it has on those closest to the victim, there is another tragedy in the untimely passing of a teenager, and it is reflected all too perfectly in Connor: what could he have become? We have an idea from his parents’ comments as to the person he was, but we will never know what he was going to be.

He had been at Saint Rose for barely a month when he walked out of Brubacher Hall for the final time that October day. Those familiar with him knew him as friendly but also as quiet, reserved, an introvert.

Some speculate that he did not like the new environment that college had afforded him. But things can change very quickly here, and the person you are as a junior or senior is sometimes a far cry from who you were as a freshman.

Maybe all Connor truly needed was more time to find his niche, to meet that one person who enabled him to open up his world, to join that one club that allowed him to be who he really wanted

to be in life. It is unfortunate that circumstances did not allow for him to find his place in the Saint Rose community that so many of us were able to find during our experience here.

When a young person dies, we mourn the life he lived, and wail for the life that was still ahead.

We will never know what Connor Trapatsos would have been like one, five, or twenty years from now. The gifts that he had, the ideas in his mind, the love he gave and could continue to give, all of that is gone.

Even more upsetting is that so few here at Saint Rose were able

You did not have to know Connor Trapatsos to understand the lessons his passing has taught us. to witness the gifts this young man had. Instead of seeing his contributions to the lives of others here, we are left with his specter, one that has become a grim reminder of the fragility of life, of the darker side of the human experience.

However, it would inappropriate of those at Saint Rose to let that specter disappear. You did not have to know Connor Trapatsos to understand the lessons his passing has taught us. Tell your parents you love them, and that you are safe. Be positive and friendly, and make others feel comfortable. Do not be afraid to reach out to another person if you feel life is becoming too much to handle. Just as importantly, do not judge the actions of others.

While his time here was far too brief, there is no doubt that this young man made an impact on The College of Saint Rose. I did not know you personally, Connor.

But I will remember you.

Dear Students,

as long as you can honestly say that you put your all into it, then We all have times we feel low, you should be proud of yourself. and with finals approaching, ev- Some people just aren’t able to eryone’s stress levels are sky- get the A that they wanted, and rocketing. that is okay!

First, take a deep breath, beYour professor won’t rememcause you won’t get anything ber what grades they gave you done if you’re too come next semesbusy freaking ter, so if they’re It’s only finals and as not stressing out.

If you feel long as you can hon- about the fact really overthat you got an whelmed with estly say that you put 82 instead of a all of your work your all into it, then 92, why waste to the point your energy? where you just you should be proud of It’s like this want to give up, awesome singer yourself. try doing someonce told me: thing that you enjoy and relaxes you. This is “You’re allowed to make misnot an excuse to go on Netflix, takes, hit speed bumps, just don’t Twitter, Facebook, Hulu… etc. If wallow in them and let them drag you do this, you’ll only get lost you down.” in Lost or end up taking a bunch Good luck with finals and reof quizzes on Buzzfeed thanks member to take it one step at a to the links your friends post on time. their Facebook pages.

Instead, why not try listening to Do... some music, drawing something Do be thankful that your that makes you happy, dancing friendships always maintain around your room, or reading a through the stress of exams. chapter of that book you’ve been meaning to start but haven’t had Don’t... the time to. If you feel really pent Don't try to make your friends up and like you need to just get go on one of those juice fasts out of wherever it is you’re doing with you. No one should have to your work, try getting outside. go through that.

If it’s late at night and you have the privilege of owning a car, call It’s okay…. some of your friends and see if It's okay to have your night they want to make a quick run scheduled around when your to get some food. If you’re able favorite TV show is on. You can't to get enough people who are avoid spoilers once your show willing to split the cost, why not is on. check out the holiday lights up in Washington Park?

It's okay to have ice cream for If driving at night isn’t an opdinner. Ice cream makes everytion, take a walk with a friend thing better. and just vent about the ridiculous amount of work you have Sincerely, to do. Most importantly, you just Victoria Creary need to remember that you’re and only human. It’s only finals and Kacey O’Brien

C12

The Chronicle

Opinion

Hey Marshawn, Quiet Down

By JONAS MILLER Staff Writer Some kids grow up and go through school with a constant bombardment of “shhh” and “hey, shut up” coming at them.

Marshawn Lynch was not one of those kids.

Lynch was recently fined $100,000 for two separate incidents because he did not speak to the media. Let me just clarify that he is not being fined for refusing to speak, or for directing profanities at them, but simply for not saying anything.

I sat for a while, trying to think about what one word could sum up my thoughts on this situation, and the only thing that comes to mind is “what?”

I mean really, come on, world.

Since when have you ever heard of an athlete getting in trouble for saying absolutely nothing?

Every once in a while you get a coach or a player who freaks out for reasons unknown and goes off on some poor reporter for simply tryign to do their job. Sometimes the reaction is more mellow. In some cases, a player or coach will even cry (cough, Terrell Owens, cough.)

Never in my 19 years of life have I seen so much punishment for an action as ridiculously normal as this. It is human nature to speak, and we have thoughts that we share through words and noises. But it is also part of human nature to take a step back and let the rest of the world do the talking. In the case of Marshawn Lynch, he is just somebody who likes to sit back and enjoy the view.

The NFL has a policy that requires players to be available to the media during all practice weeks and in the locker room after every game. Certain players who are labeled as “superstars” or “players with unusually high

media demand” only have to be available to the media once during the practice week, as well as post game.

Lynch has been known to be quiet throughout his nine seasons in the NFL. He just doesn’t have anything to say. And when he does speak, his words generally have nothing to do with the question that is being asked, which I find hilarious.

When asked about his team, the Seattle Seahawks, breaking their franchise rushing record

The idea that just because someone is famous requires them to share their thoughts and opinions with the world is outrageous. against the Giants a of couple weeks ago, Lynch responded by talking about who his favorite rappers are. What the NFL thinks is wrong with this, I have no idea.

The idea that just because someone is famous requires them to share their thoughts and opinions with the world is outrageous.

The man plays football, that’s all.

It is a game meant for children, played by men. Sure, they get paid incredible amounts of money, are on television, and have merchandise with their name on it sold worldwide, but that doesn’t mean they should be forced to speak.

In today’s society, we put athletes on such a high pedestal.

Even though their only job is to play the game they love, we expect so much more than that.

They have to be perfect, because if they aren’t, what are they?

Not worth the money they’re be-

ing paid? Or possibly a bad role model for the children who look up to them?

But wait, did Lynch flip a reporter off and then snort a line of coke? No. He just didn’t blabber on for the sake of the media. “Oh yeah, well, we had a good game for sure… I think we played well… let’s go out and do it again next week.” If we expect every athlete to drone on like that, simply to give the media something to report on, then I believe it is society who should be fined, not Mr. Lynch.

To further prove Lynch’s innocence in this case, I’d like to direct your attention to Gregg Popovich, who, if you didn’t know, is the head coach for the San Antonio Spurs. For those of you who aren’t familiar with basketball, “Pop,” as they call him, is famous for being the amazing coach that he is, but is known more for the interviews he does during halftime and post-game.

Pop does his absolute best to say as few words as humanly possible. He will answer with a yes, or a no, or just a shrug. So, tell me, why doesn’t he get fined?

Sure, he’s doing the interviews, but is he really providing the media with anything to work with, other than a little chuckle?

I think that if you’re going to fine someone one hundred thousand dollars, which is unfortunately more money than I’ll ever have, you should provide more of a reason than “he doesn’t talk enough.” I believe that most of the talking athletes do is done on the field through their skill and athletic ability, which soars over average humans like us.

If Marshawn Lynch runs for 250 yards and five touchdowns, which would be one hell of a game, I think the only thing he should have to say to anyone is “You’re welcome.”

November 25th, 2014

Volume 83 Issue 15

‘Tis The Season For Greediness

By Katie Klimacek Opinion Editor

someone, you need to be carrying a designer bag or the latest model of the iPhone.

Ah, it’s that time of year again.

For me, I find this very frustratThe smell of freshly-baked ing. I grew up in a modest home pumpkin pie is wafting through and had toys and stuff, but they the air, snow is beginning to dust never dominated how I lived my the fallen leaves on the ground, life or who I thought who I was. and spoiled teens are out roaming It seems as though that is how the malls dictating what they ab- this new generation is, and even solutely need for Christmas from people who are not a part of this their parents. generation act this way.

Just the other day, I decided to During a time of the year when stop by my local mall back home people are supposed to be giving to do some early Christmas shop- and sharing, it seems like people ping, before all the crazy Black are only worried about themFriday shoppers came out of the selves. woodwork. When I walked into The biggest example of this Target, a wave of cotton candy is Black Friday. In the past five body spray whacked me in the years, Black Friday has become a face. holiday all its own.

It was like leave People have been People school was their families closed and all killed during Black during Thanksthe local teens giving dinner to Friday just because get a head start decided to flock to mall. As I was wait in line others have been in to looking at the at Wal-Mart and newest display such a rush to get to the other big-name of Toms apparel stores in order to that Target is limited number of flat get the best deals carrying this seathe season. screen TVs in the back of People son, a young girl have walked up with been killed durof the store. her mom and ing Black Friday said, “Oh my God, just because others I need to have this water bottle,” have been in such a rush to get to which was made out of glass. the limited number of flat-screen The mother just kept on walking TVs in the back of the store. and said, “Why, so you can break I think that what people have it?” – the daughter — “Yes, that to remember is that we need to is exactly why, I want it so I can stop thinking about the gratificabreak it.” tion that comes with the designer, After I heard this, I assumed name-brand labels. Instead, we (and hoped) that what the daugh- have to look at our families, enter had said was just a joke, but joy the time we have together after I thought about it, it prob- with the ones we love, and cherably wasn’t that far away from ish those memories. the truth.

This Thanksgiving, give This younger generation that is thanks for what you have, instead beginning to dominate so much of complaining about what you of everyone’s daily lives, Gen- don’t have, and stay home on eration Y, is so concerned with Thursday. Digest your turkey and labels. The idea that in order to be enjoy everything around you.

November 25th, 2014

Volume 83 Issue 15

Sports

2014 MVPs: Beyond the Award

By Josh Veshia Staff Writer When Mike Trout and Clayton Kershaw were recently named MVPs of the MLB for their respective leagues, it did more for the game of baseball than some might think.

The Most Valuable Player Award is the most sought after prize in the game, as it is in any sport. The baseball season, however, goes on for much longer than the seasons of other sports, making the award seem like a reimbursement for your months of dedication to your team and to the sport overall.

No one knows, nor will they ever know, how or why voters choose the way they do in certain instances. MVP voting showed that Victor Martinez was favored next behind Trout in the American League, despite the fact that he was the Designated Hitter for much of the year. He started 33 games at first and two games behind the plate, meaning that his offensive numbers, which were very impressive at that, were essentially the sole reason for his recognition.

Trout is constantly getting the title of the ultimate 5-tool baseball player. He can hit for power, and for average, run well, throw the ball well, and make some of the most amazing plays in centerfield, seemingly game after game.

A player like that is what you think of when you think “Most Valuable Player.”

Miguel Cabrera’s numbers the two previous seasons when he won the MVP were on another level. Offensive outputs like those are, indeed, justifiable over a player who does well in all aspects of the game, like Trout.

Having said that, Trout’s numbers were actually down in specific areas from his previous two seasons, where he finished close to the top, but unable to pass Cabrera. In 2012, Trout stole 49

bases, which was 33 more than he did this past season, with 16. In 2013, Trout struck out 136 times, 48 fewer than the 184 times he struck out in 2014.

As odd as it may sound, this is not a negative thing for Trout.

All these changes in numbers occurred and he is still the most versatile player in the game of baseball. His stolen base numbers might drop significantly and he might strike out a lot more, but none of that will take away from the fact that he is a versatile player and will remain one for as long as he plays the game.

If he continues to hit around the .300 (.287 in 2014; .326 and .323 in 2012 and 2013, respectively) 30 homerun mark while running well and chasing down impossible catches like he does, Trout is always going to be among those at the top for the MVP Award, as he should. That’s what it means to be an exceptional position player in the game of baseball: play all aspects of the game, and do them all well.

On the other side of the spectrum is Clayton Kershaw. As a starting pitcher in today’s game, you start a game every fifth day, which has grown to be accepted as the norm. This allows a pitcher to get proper rest and be effective for, again, a rather lengthy season. So why is it a surprise that a man who has one of the best seasons any of us have ever seen as baseball fans, despite missing a handful of starts with an injury, won the MVP in the National League? For some, it is because he is a pitcher.

While Kershaw was busy striking out 239 batters, only walking 31 and posting an unbelievable ERA of 1.77, baseball analysts were having discussions as to whether or not a player who appears every fifth day should win an award for season-long greatness. It would have to be a greatness that was above all others.

At the end of the day, the sea-

son Kershaw had was indeed just that. Giancarlo Stanton was his biggest threat, but Stanton is a player with big-time power and the ability to get on base. His remaining skillset pales in comparison to a player like Trout.

The importance of our two MVPs can be seen when you look at our nation’s capital. In D.C., there are two players by the name of Bryce Harper and Stephen Strasburg. Coming out of college, people were giving Cy Young awards to Strasburg before he even stepped on the rubber.

His 100 mph fastball and kneebuckling curveball were something to marvel at. Harper is perhaps the most hyped player in the history of the game, leaving high school early to be able to enter the league sooner, being on the cover of Sports Illustrated before even being in the league.

The successfulness of baseball relies on the ability of American youth to relate to the great players. Despite Strasburg and Harper being good players, they have yet to enter the “greatness.” Mike Trout is 23 years old. What you don’t yet have in Harper is exactly what you have in him. Clayton Kershaw is 26 years old, already has three Cy Young awards, and has just won the MVP as a pitcher, a feat that hasn’t been accomplished since the high-mounded Bob Gibson in 1968.

Baseball needs this. Viewing numbers are down and football has taken the wheel. We are currently experiencing two players going down as two of the all-time best at their positions. It will be fun to watch these careers unfold and see the difference they make to a game that is in desperate need of something new.

Want to write for sports?

Contact our Sports Editor Victoria Addison at addisonv653@strose.edu

The Chronicle

D13

Heisman Trophy Watch

By SHAWN BERMAN Staff Writer With only two weeks left in the college football regular season, it seems to be a two-player Heisman race at this point, between Marcus Mariota and Melvin Gordon. The push for the Heisman Trophy may go down to the final wire. With that being said, here are my top five Hesiman candidates who have a shot to hear their name called in New York.

5. QB Trevone Boykin, TCU Boykin is a big reason as to why the Horned Frogs are ranked fifth in the nation and in a good position to win the Big 12. The star quarterback just doesn’t appear to crack under pressure and always rises to the occasion. Just last week, Boykin went 26-of36, passing for 330 yards with a touchdown against Kansas. On the season, Boykin has just over 3,000 yards to go along with 31 total touchdowns.

4. WR Amari Cooper, Alabama Cooper continues to strive in Lane Kiffin’s offense, and it just seems like he is really in sync with Blake Sims as he leads the team with 87 receptions, averaging nearly 15 yards a catch.

Against Mississippi State, Cooper caught eight passes for 88 yards and a touchdown, leading the Crimson Tide to a 25-20 win over Mississippi State. Look for Cooper to lead the number-one ranked team in the nation to a big win against Auburn in the Egg Bowl next week.

3. QB Dak Prescott, Mississippi State Well, a few weeks ago Prescott looked to be running away with the trophy, but he has been less

than impressive against his past three SEC opponents (Arkansas, Kentucky, Alabama) which is a little concerning going forward.

Prescott and the Bulldogs still have to play Ole Miss on the road in the Egg Bowl. However, despite his recent play, Prescott and the Bulldogs are still playoff contenders.

2. RB Melvin Gordon, Wisconsin The Badger back has put Wisconsin in a favorable position to compete for the Big 10 title. It’s interesting to wonder where the Badgers would be ranked if they beat LSU in their season opener.

As for Gordon, he’s having a monster season — last week he rushed for an FBS single-game record 408 yards, to go along with four touchdowns. Gordon broke the previous record of 406 yards set by TCU’s LaDainian Tomlinson against UTEP in 1999.

Gordon did this all in just three quarters of play, while facing a Corn Huskers defense that was ranked twentieth in the nation.

1. QB Marcus Mariota, Oregon It has been some ride for the Hawaiian native so far. After losing to Arizona early on, it looked liked the same old Mariota and Oregon from the past couple years. Since then, they have been nothing short of perfect. Just two weeks ago against Utah, Mariota accounted for four touchdowns and 353 total yards in the Ducks’ 51-27 blowout victory.

Mariota was 17-of-29, passing for 239 yards and 3 touchdowns, while rushing for 114 yards and a touchdown. On the season, the dual-threat quarterback has thrown for 2,800 yards to go along with 28 passing touchdowns. Mariota has also only thrown two interceptions on the season.

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Sports Five for Five The Five Sports StoriesYou Need to Know The Chronicle

By MATTHEW WOODS Staff Writer 1. Adrian Peterson Suspended for Season Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson has been suspended by the NFL for the remainder of the season, following his appeal which was denied by an arbitrator after the original suspension had been handed down Monday morning. The suspension means that Peterson will be kept on the commissioner’s exempt list without pay for the Viking’s remaining six games. He had been on the same exempt list, with pay, since Sept. 18 while the legal process played out.

Back in September, Peterson was indicted with a felony charge of injury to a child for his disciplinary tactics, which he beat his four-year-old son using a wooden switch. Peterson pleaded no contest, accepting a lesser charge.

The suspension the NFL handed down makes a bit of sense.

Under the newly-enhanced NFL personal conduct policy, the consequences for a player’s first offense is a six-game suspension.

However, Peterson and the NFLPA are arguing that Peterson’s time on the exempt list during the court process should’ve counted as time served for his suspension.

The arbitrator’s ruling shows us that the NFL is making the appropriate adjustments in handling player misconduct. This may be the first situation that commissioner Roger Goodell has handled right in a long time, and the arbitrator solidified that with the ruling.

In Goodell’s letter to Peterson informing him of his suspension, Goodell showed little mercy for the All-Pro running back, and rightfully so. Goodell’s letter was spot on. Peterson has shown very

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Adrian Peterson was recently suspended for the remainder of the NFL season.

little remorse, and has nonchalantly played the situation off to be nothing like a serious matter at all. Peterson’s lack of judgment, responsibility, and maturity has been shown numerous times during the legal process. Just take his ill-advised move of smoking marijuana before being drug tested after his arrest.

Peterson is not allowed to apply for reinstatement until April 15, 2015. If the NFL really wants to make a point, and they should, they will suspend him for longer.

2. Giancarlo Stanton Lands Mega-Deal Miami Marlins’ prolific slugger Giancarlo Stanton just landed the most lucrative contract in American sports history. The Marlins and their star agreed to an eye-popping 13-year, $325 million deal.

The 25-year-old Stanton may not even be in the prime of his career yet. In this, his fourth year, Stanton had some stellar numbers. He hit .288 with 37 homeruns and 105 RBI’s in 145 games. Stanton’s deal blows all past deals out of the water. The two players who signed deals that were larger are Miguel Cabrera, who signed a ten-year, $292 million deal with the Detroit Tigers, and the one and only Alex Rodriguez, who signed a ten-year, $275 million deal with the New York Yankees.

The immediate response to a deal that big is “wow,” but you also have to ask if the player is worth it. In the case of the Marlins, Stanton is totally worth it.

He will draw fans to the ballpark and help sell this franchise.

The Marlins are a team that has been lacking star power, and Stanton is “the guy” for this organization. With the deal he signed, he will open up cap room for the team to win now.

Stanton’s deal is heavily back

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loaded. In the first six years, Stanton will make an estimated $107 million and be able to opt out if he so chooses. This deal will allow the Marlins to be in a “win now” mode, and offers them the opportunity to spend some of that cap space on a number of free agents over the next couple of years.

This deal also shows us that Stanton is really just a team guy who is being paid a lot of money.

He could have made more money and stayed a free agent after six or seven years, had he signed a shorter deal with the team, but Stanton showed his loyalty to the Marlins by committing and helping the organization with the structure of his mega-deal.

decided to part ways with the powerful running back. Later this week, Blount went on to call the move a “happy release.”

As a Steeler, Blount rushed for 266 yards and two touchdowns, while sharing carries with Le’Veon Bell.

Blount’s role with the team had been increasingly diminished over the past few weeks, as Bell had risen to the occasion, performing at a high level. On Monday, Bell rushed for 204 yards on thirty-three carries with one touchdown, while Blount did not carry the ball a single time.

Blount’s released surprised a lot of teams and fans around the league, and it didn’t take long for him to find a new home. Hours after being released, Blount signed with one of his former teams, the New England Patriots. The Patriots look to utilize the Blount with their other backs, Jonas Gray and Shane Vereen.

3. Blount Forced Trauma LaGarrette Blount is now a former Steeler after the team released him following his actions after the Steelers’ Monday night comeback victory against the Tennessee Titans.

Angry about not being involved, Blount decided to leave the locker room and head toward the team bus before the end of the team meeting.

Angry about not being involved, Blount decided to leave the locker room and head toward the team bus before the end of the team meeting. Blount was called back into the locker room by defensive assistant Joey Porter, but only stayed briefly before heading back to the team bus.

The team had had enough, and

4. Jets vs Bills Relocated to Detroit The winter wonderland that is Buffalo, New York, throwing a walloping seven feet of snow in some areas, forced the NFL to relocate this past week’s Jets versus Bills matchup. Ralph Wilson Stadium, home of the Bills, was completely covered in snow, and with the weather not letting up, there was no time for the field to be cleared and prepped.

The game was moved to Monday night at Ford Field in Detroit instead, a place where the Bills were victorious earlier this year.

Tickets were free to fans who showed up to the stadium as well.

Earlier in the week, the Bills had offered fans $10 an hour and tickets to the game if they helped clear the field at Ralph Wilson Stadium, but the weather did not Continued on Next Page

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Five for Five

From Previous Page

cooperate, forcing the game to be moved.

In order to get to the game, players had to be rescued via snowmobile to get on the team bus headed toward Detroit.

Maybe instances like this will spark more interest in building a dome-style stadium for teams who are from places with tough weather conditions.

5. Josh Gordon Returns to Action After being suspended for 10 games for his third drug-related incident, Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon returned to practice this past Wednesday, and will play in his first game this season against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, vowing to “tear this league up.”

Gordon, one of the game’s most explosive play makers, was suspended for violating the league’s substance abuse policy,

for which commissioner Goodell handed down an uncalled-for full-season suspension that was later reduced to 10 games.

This was a suspension that really came under fire after Ray Rice was only given a two-game suspension for the domestic violence incident involving his then-girlfriend, Janay Palmer.

These two instances sparked the backlash against Goodell and the league for the way they handle player misconduct.

Despiet this, Gordon looks to make an immediate impact for the Browns in their push toward the playoffs. Gordon is in some of the best shape of his young career, and although he wasn’t able to play, practiced privately every day until his return.

It is only a matter of time before Gordon is back to making game-breaking plays for the Browns.

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon, who will be eligible to play for the first time this season against the Atlanta Falcons.

Sports

The Chronicle

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Porreca’s Picks

By Justin Porreca Staff Writer 1. 26 Semi Finalists announced for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2015 The pool of 113 nominees with high hopes of being crowned a Hall of Famer in August has now shrunk to 26. This past Tuesday marked the first of three announcements regarding the past greats who will be enshrined this summer into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Normally, the field is trimmed to 25, but there was a tie between two players that resulted in 26 nominees making the cut.

The Class of 2014 included seven legends, two of those legends making it in on their first year of eligibility, Derrick Brooks and Walter Jones. The rest of the class included senior inductee Claude Humphrey, Ray Guy, Michael Strahan, Aeneas Williams, and the long-awaited Andre Reed.

Of the 26 Semi Finalists, eight have the opportunity to be enshrined in their first year of eligibility. Those players include former St. Louis Rams and San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Isaac Bruce, former St. Louis Rams and Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Torry Holt, former Indianapolis Colts, Arizona Cardinals, and Seattle Seahawks running back Edgerrin James, former New England Patriots, New York Jets, Kansas City Chiefs, and Denver Broncos cornerback Ty Law, former Seattle Seahawks, New York Jets, and Tennessee Titans center Kevin Mawae, former St. Louis Rams and Chicago Bears left tackle Orlando Pace, former St. Louis Rams, New York Giants, and Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner, and finally former San Diego Chargers, Miami Dolphins, and New England Patriots linebacker, the late Junior Seau.

The list of nominees in their first year of eligibility is flooded

with players from the “Greatest Show on Turf.” However, one player stands out above all of them: Junior Seau. With the tragic nature of his death, the rumors have been swirling that he is almost guaranteed a spot in the Class of 2015. Not to mention, his statistics speak for themselves and back up his case to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

This list of twenty-six potential enshrinees will be reduced to a list of fifteen by early January.

The final inevitable list of four to eight players who will join the senior nominee, former Minnesota Vikings center Mick Tinglehoff, will be announced on Jan. 31 in Arizona. Football fans will be waiting from now until the 31 in hopes to see if their favorite former great will be inducted into the prestigious Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. Let the quest for the bust commence.

2. The Silver and Black Avoid Being Black and Blued: Raiders Get First Win of the Season The Raiders have finally got a mark in the win column. After 368 long and embarrassing days, the Oakland Raiders have finally ended their winless drought. It came at the hands of a hot Kansas City Chiefs squad, who had won their last five in a row, after being 2-3.

The Raiders, who were and may still be the embarrassment of the league at 0-10, ended their sixteen-game losing streak. Oakland’s last win came at the hands at of the league’s worst team this past season, the Houston Texans, on Nov. 17, 2013. Oakland played their best and most complete game of the season Thursday night. All four quarters, the Raiders fought to obtain their first win, which was against a division foe and hated rival.

“Hopefully there’s many more to come, because I like this feeling better than the other one,

that’s for sure,” said Raiders’ rookie quarterback, Derek Carr, after his first NFL victory.

The rookie played close to perfect, by rookie standards, in his first victory. Carr threw for a buck seventy-four, one touchdown, and went 18 of 35 for a 51.4 percent completion percentage in inclement weather conditions. Carr also led his first fourth-quarter gamewinning drive with a 17-play, 80yard drive that led to a nine-yard touchdown to James Jones with 1:42 left on the game clock.

However, there was an unsung hero for the Raiders who helped them gain the early lead on the Chiefs that was squandered away and then gained back late in the fourth. Coming off the week prior, where the NFL saw a noname running back named Jonas Gray go for 201 yards and four touchdowns to help the Patriots grab a victory over the Colts, the unknown running back carousel continued in week 12.

A 2013 sixth-round pick out of Central Florida named Latavius Murray helped the Raiders grab an early 14-3 lead on the Chiefs.

On four carries, Murray rushed for 112 yards and two touchdowns, the first an 11 yard run, and the second a 90-yard scamper to the end zone.

It’s still hard to determine if this is a turning point for the lowly Raiders, but there’s no denying that it’s a start. The future was on display, with Derek Carr leading them down the field on the game-winning drive and Latavius Murray running rampant on the Chiefs defense in the first half. There’s still have much to be desired of the Cheifs, however, before anyone gives them the chance of turning a new page and writing a new chapter in the Raider history books.

The Raiders’ next game is at St. Louis, versus the Rams. As for Kansas City, the Chiefs will host the Denver Broncos on Sunday Night Football next week.

Sports 76ers: Tanking, or Duke or Kentucky: Just Terrible?

Who Ya Got?

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The Chronicle

By ALEX HORTON Staff Writer College basketball season is underway, and there are really only two teams that I’m saying have a chance to go undefeated this season so far. Those two teams are Duke and Kentucky, who both dropped more then 100 points in their first games. Now they’ve played some teams that stood absolutely no chance, so that doesn’t necessarily impress me very much, but 100 points is 100 points.

I guess I’ll start off with an explanation as to why both have a very good chance to go undefeated, and then I’ll tell you who I got.

The Kentucky Wildcats have had the top recruiting class consistently over the past couple of years, and this year is not different. All four freshman recruits that Calipari brought in were ranked in the top 25 of the 2014 ESPN 100, which goes to show the freshman power that Kentucky has. The Wildcats also retained most of the team that made it to the Final Four, where they lost to UCONN in the National Championship game. The Harrison twins, along with the seven-foot, 240-pound center Willie CauleyStein, were essential parts of last year’s team and are clear leaders on this year’s squad.

Head coach John Calipari is doing something that most coaches don’t normally have the leisure of doing, which is substituting his players in and out of squads, almost like a line change in hockey.

The starting lineup looks like the Harrison twins manning the one and two, Alex Poythress at the three, and the frontcourt played Trey Lyles and Cauley-Stein.

Fortunately for this Kentucky team, they play in the SEC, probably one of the weakest conferences in basketball outside of

Kentucky and the Florida Gators. As the schedule and rankings stand right now, the Wildcats are set to play six games against a ranked team. So far, they have steamrolled over Kansas, who were ranked fifth at the time of the loss.

Kentucky will face Texas next, a top-10 team and, barring anything crazy, Kentucky should be able to win that game. They should also be able to dispose of North Carolina, a team who

Kentucky will face Texas next, a top-10 team and, barring anything crazy, Kentucky should be able to win that game. looked a little rusty against an unranked North Carolina Central team that they should have cruised past. They will then play a tough UCLA team, and after that, face off against Rick Pitino and Louisville. Now the last ranked games are against SEC rival Florida, who just lost to an unranked Miami team.

Now, there’s this other really great team who just so happens to be coached by one of the greatest college basketball coaches of all time. That team is the Duke Blue Devils, led by Mike Krzyzewski.

Now, this team is really good and has no problem scoring the basketball and playing great defense.

The fact that they managed to recruit the best high school player in the nation to play for them kind of helps as well. Especially when that recruit is leading your team in points per game, rebounds per game, and shooting percentage.

This Okafor kid is pretty good, and when you have a guy like

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Quinn Cook, who is the leader of this freshman-heavy Duke team, you’re going to be very hard to beat. The Blue Devils are fast, big, strong, smart, and they are unselfish with the ball. They make the extra pass to take a great shot over a good one.

Now, playing in the ACC is dangerous when you have Syracuse and North Carolina to compete with. Krzyzewski has also decided to schedule some big games. Besides playing ‘Cuse, UNC, and Notre Dame twice, Duke will have to face Louisville, Pittsburgh, UCONN, and Wisconsin. Duke just beat a good Michigan State team that was ranked nineteenth. All of those teams are good, solid teams that can beat Duke and most, if not all of them have a good shot at being ranked at some point during this season.

So outside of Okafor, Duke has a good amount of freshman talent in Tyus Jones, Grayson Allen, and Justise Winslow, all of whom were ranked in the top 25 in the ESPN 100. These three players average more then 25 minutes a game, with Grayson averaging only 11 minutes. Now, those are some heavy minutes to be giving to freshman, but it seems like Krzyzewski doesn’t worry about the minutes he taxes on them as long as they continue to perform at the level they are currently at.

I was told by my editor, who is a huge UNC fan, to make my decision wisely on this topic. Well, she can breathe easy, because I’m going to have to give my vote to Kentucky. They have a much easier schedule that doesn’t have me worried that they will lose to any of the teams they are going to be facing this season. Duke, on the other hand, has a pretty difficult schedule. But then again, it is still early, and anything can happen.

So, who ya got?

By JOSH HELLER Staff Writer

It seems like we have this conversation every time a team starts their season 0-10 or worse, but there’s something different with this Philadelphia 76ers team.

So far, in this early 201415 NBA season, the Philadelphia Sixers have a grand total of zero wins. And the question isn’t, “when will this team win a game?” It’s, “is this team the worst in history?”

Well, to answer that question, let’s take a look at the record books. By winning percentage, the worst team in NBA history is the 2011-12 Charlotte Bobcats.

That season was shortened to 66 games due to the lockout, but the Bobcats finished with a 7-59 record, just one of five teams in history with single-digit wins.

That winning percentage totaled to .106. The Bobcats averaged 87 points, 14 turnovers, and 39 rebounds per game. Those numbers are some of the worse, namely turnovers and rebounds.

Worst of all, let’s compare those numbers to the 2014-15 76ers (through 12 games). The Sixers this year have 89 points, 20 turnovers, and 40 rebounds per game. Those numbers look similar, don’t they? Surprisingly, they’re barely behind those of the Golden State Warriors in turnovers per game this year, trailing by less than two-tenths of a decimal. Now that we’ve looked at the stats, let’s take a look at the roster.

I guarantee that if you show the 76ers roster to any NBA fan, there are very few people who would want one of the players on their team, with the exception of Michael Carter-Williams or Nerlens Noel. That being said, guard Tony Wroten has had a fantastic start this season. If it wasn’t for him, the 76ers may have been worse than they are now, if that’s possible.

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The 76ers have been rolling out a starting five of Carter-Williams, Wroten, Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, Noel, and Henry Sims.

Not exactly names that jump off the page. However, I’m not going to blame this terrible roster on management. There have been a fair number of injuries. Two players recovering from foot surgeries are small forward Jason Richardson and center Joel Embiid. Embiid was the third overall pick in this past draft, and will be out for the entire year. Embiid’s injury has really hurt the Sixers, as they now only have one healthy, natural center on their roster. Sure, Noel can slip into the center position, but he’s much more comfortable at power forward.

Now the main question comes along: Are the 76ers terrible, or are they this bad on purpose? The other night, the Sixers played the Dallas Mavericks and fell in defeat, 123-70. Granted, the Mavericks managed to put up 140 against the Lakers, but still, losing by 50-plus points is just unacceptable. This loss came a day after Carter-Williams was asked, “Is the team tanking?”

Personally, I think that the Sixers are tanking for first overall.

All of the evidence points to this.

Even in the offseason, when the NBA was thinking of establishing anti-tanking laws, the 76ers were one of a few teams to protest against them, and ask for the NBA to hold off on these laws.

I think there’s a very good chance that the Sixers will finish with single-digit wins, and there’s a very good chance they’ll become the worst team in history.

But it’s a young season, and the Sixers are a team made up of very young players. We’ll have to see how the rest of the season plays out, and see if Michael CarterWilliams, Nerlens Noel and company are able to turn around the Philadelphia franchise, and avoid tanking allegations.