The Spectrum Volume 63 Issue 1

Last year’s headlines: A year in review New e-board committed to TIE plan THE INDEPENDENT STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY AT BUFFALO, SINCE 1950

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Monday, July 1, 2013

Tripathi announces ‘Religiously-Neutral Calendar’

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Volume 63 No. 1

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Monday, July 1, 2013

Opinion

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EDITORIAL BOARD EDITOR IN CHIEF Aaron Mansfield MANAGING EDITORS Lisa Khoury Sara DiNatale EDITORIAL EDITOR Eric Cortellessa NEWS EDITORS Rachel Raimondi, Senior Sam Fernando, Senior Tong Meng, Asst.

LIFE EDITORS Joe Konze Jr., Senior Keren Baruch Sharon Kahn, Asst.

Alyssa McClure, Asst.

ARTS EDITORS Max Crinnin, Senior Rachel Kramer, Asst.

Kiera Medved, Asst.

Felicia Hunt, Asst.

SPORTS EDITORS Jon Gagnon, Senior Ben Tarhan, Senior Owen O’Brien PHOTO EDITORS Aline Kobayashi, Senior Aminata Diallo Nick Fischetti, Asst.

Joe Malak, Asst.

Juan David Pinzon, Asst.

CARTOONIST Jeanette Chwan CREATIVE DIRECTORS Brian Keschinger Haider Alidina, Asst.

PROFESSIONAL STAFF OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Helene Polley ADVERTISING MANAGER Emma Callinan Drew Gaczewski, Asst.

Chris Mirandi, Asst.

ADVERTISING DESIGNER Haley Sunkes Haley Chapman, Asst.

Ashlee foster, Asst.

July 1, 2013 Volume 63 Number 1 Circulation 7,000 The views expressed – both written and graphic – in the Feedback, Opinion, and Perspectives sections of The Spectrum do not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial board. Submit contributions for these pages to The Spectrum office at Suite 132 Student Union or news@ubspectrum.com. The Spectrum reserves the right to edit these pieces for style and length. If a letter is not meant for publication please mark it as such. All submissions must include the author’s name, daytime phone number, and email address.

The Spectrum is provided free in part by the Undergraduate Mandatory Activity Fee. The Spectrum is represented for national advertising by MediaMate.

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Additional rules of the road

Federal proposal to lower DWI limit is mixed bag in need of support Getting behind the wheel of a car while intoxicated by alcohol is more than just stupid – it’s morally irresponsible.

When people drive drunk, they aren’t just putting themselves in danger – they are putting other human beings in danger. In 2011, 9,878 people died in drunk driving crashes, according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving – a nonprofit organization in the United States; that’s equivalent to one death every 53 minutes. In 2010, 211 children were killed in accidents that were the result of drunk driving; that’s at least four a week.

It will never cease to mystify us why someone would do something as foolish as driving drunk – especially when the statistics are so staggering and the possible consequences are so immense.

Regardless of all the warnings, however, many people still decidedly take a chance whenever it suits their pleasing, their impulses or their invariable habit of relying on poor judgment under the spell of inebriation.

Thomas Nochajski, a research professor in UB’s School of Social Work,

has vocalized support of a current federal proposal to lower the DWI blood-alcohol-content level from .08 to .05 as a way to save lives. He cites that when the limit was dropped from .10 to .08, there was a decrease in fatalities that coincided with it.

Anything that saves lives is a good thing and getting drunk drivers off the road is enormously important. We support any type of practical legislation with the intention of removing those who pose a danger to everyone.

While we like the idea behind this proposal, we recognize gaps in its effectiveness.

The biggest impact this change is likely to have is it would increase the amount of people who get arrested for DWIs more than it would decrease the amount who choose to avoid the risk.

Plus, how many people can really judge themselves to be .05 as opposed to .08? How many people will get arrested for blowing .06 and then face the same penalties as the person who blew .16?

We would hope that with lowering the limit, people would become too

afraid to gamble. The majority of the time, however, the people who drive drunk are the people who are in a habit of driving drunk already. The responsible people who limit themselves to one or two drinks each occasion (and who have made that decision before they started drinking) are the ones who would be affected by this change the most.

The amount of drinks it takes to reach a BAC level of .08 varies for each person – but for many, the amount of time it takes to reach a .08 is pretty quick and takes few alcoholic beverages. Consider the responsible adult male who slugs a few back with his buddies on the links every Saturday. Should he have to go through the legal process that entails receiving a DWI for drinking three or four beers in a span of a few hours before driving? Is his decision dangerous enough to merit legal ramifications?

Nachajski notes that approximately 900 of those fatal car accidents in 2011 were the result of drivers with a BAC in between .05 and .07. That’s a lot of human lives whose premature deaths could have (and should have)

been averted. So the answer boils down to yes.

The problem remains that this won’t change many people’s habits and it will be hard to uphold. Even Candace Lightner, founder of MADD, has said she doesn’t support the proposal – citing that it wasn’t realistic and wouldn’t be enforced.

It is time people fully comprehend the severity of this issue, however, and process the possibility that it could someday be them who loses a friend or loved one to drunk driving. Or perhaps you could kill someone from driving after drinking “just a few.” It happens all the time.

While the chance this proposal has to be passed into law is slim at this point, it needs more consideration. If a law has a chance at saving 900 lives a year, it should be given its day in court – along with the driver who might be sent there by it.

Email: editorial@ubspectrum.com

A solicitude for solitude…

The problem of solitary confinement in federal prisons George Orwell once wrote: “The object of torture is torture.”

In February, the Federal Bureau of Prisons began conducting an examination of solitary confinement in all federal prisons in the United States. Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL) requested the review upon statistics revealing more than 50 percent of all prison suicides are committed by individuals kept in isolation.

America has the most prisoners in the world. The same nation that holds 5 percent of the world’s population holds 25 percent of the world’s prisoners; the federal prison system includes approximately 215,000 inmates, and in 2010, over 11,000 of them were held in “special housing.” That’s not including state prisons.

There is estimated to be more than 105,000 inmates held in isolation in all types of prisons throughout the United States, according to The Washington Post.

In a syndicated op-ed column, George Will pointed out that when Charles Dickens visited the Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia – more than 170 years ago – where a stringent system of solitude was administered, his observation was:

“I hold this slow and daily tampering with the mysteries of the brain, to be immeasurably worse than any torture of the body: and because its ghastly signs and tokens are not so palpable to the eye and sense of touch as scars upon the flesh; because its wounds are not upon the surface, and it extorts few cries that human ears can hear; therefore I the more denounce it, as a secret punishment which slumbering humanity is not roused up to stay.”

Prisoners in isolation are kept in small cells without access to windows and natural light for 23 hours a day – every day. The amount of these people who eventually decide that not living is better than living like that reflects the severe and corrosive psychological impact the institution of solitary confinement has on an individual.

Yet it is the current ruling of the Supreme Court that holds this form of treatment does not violate the Eighth Amendment – inflicting “cruel and unusual punishment.”

Another term for prisons – in our modern (politically correct) vernacular – is “correctional facilities.” There seems to be something ironic about depriving human contact to individuals the government is attempting to re-

assimilate back into society.

To maintain the belief that these prisoners are undergoing a process that can restore them to normality is absurd. The notion of rehabilitation seems to be perplexingly distant from this line of “correctional thinking.”

Donald Hebb, a professor of psychology at McGill University, conducted experiments in 2008 on the effects of isolation on the mind. The series of tests demonstrated the treatment rendered the human subjects disoriented and despondent. Their cognitive faculties became impaired, and for some, the sensory effects included hallucination. In other words, isolation drastically altered the way their minds functioned.

Solitary confinement facilitates a prisoner’s descent into madness and the United States is presiding over this phenomenon systematically – with thousands of inmates scheduled to one day re-enter mainstream society.

Is this the state of mind you want for someone who could potentially be sitting next to you in a class?

With the exception of the prisoners who have committed truly heinous crimes – and whose criminal and/ or violent nature is incorrigible – the

use of solitary confinement needs to be reconsidered. It makes sense for an inmate to be kept in seclusion for the purpose of protecting other inmates – if he or she poses an intemperate physical threat to them. But for those who need to be prepared for reintegration in our neighborhoods and communities, it makes little sense.

CBS News has reported that Colorado, Georgia and Maine have recently begun reducing the amount of inmates kept in isolation since the review began.

We’re hoping federal prisons will follow in their footsteps.

For the majority of the inmates experiencing what is proven to trigger psychiatric problems and induce excruciating mental agony, solitary confinement is as useful for rehabilitation as fighting is for peace. With federal dollars going toward inmates being kept in isolation costing considerably more than average inmates, the question that should remain on taxpayers’ minds is: “The object of solitary confinement is…?”

Email: editorial@ubspectrum.com

Hood’s ‘reach for the stars’ leaves lasting impact

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The Spectrum offices are located in 132 Student Union, UB North Campus, Buffalo, NY 14260-2100

AARON MANSFIELD Editor in Chief

I had to pull into a hotel parking lot.

It was a rainy summer morning. I had just dropped my mom off at the airport when the words that flashed on my phone sucked the wind from my lungs and left my stomach feeling inside out, like when you’re at the peak of a roller coaster preparing for the drop.

The cause: a text from an area sports writer: “Any idea how Saron died?”

No, I thought. This isn’t real.

With that distinct first name, there was no question who he was talking about. Former UB wide receiver Saron Hood, who finished school at UB this spring, collapsed and eventually passed away June 6 while working out at Texas A&M, where he was finishing his engineering degree.

I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know some UB athletes very well, but Hood was not one of them. I did not lose a close friend with his passing; instead, I felt sharp disap-

pointment knowing a life filled with potential had been cut far too short.

“Every time I step onto the field you’ll be able to see my passion for this team,” Hood told me in 2011.

“Our potential is endless. Why not reach for the stars?”

Hood, an undersized, speedy receiver with dreadlocks from San Diego, was not a major contributor on the field, totaling just four catches for 33 yards in his four years. I once wrote in a column that fans should expect him to be a breakout performer, but that never happened.

In the face of adversity and onthe-field struggles, Hood remained fully himself. His unyielding optimism continues to impact his teammates.

“I learned how to treat people even when things aren’t in your favor,” said UB senior cornerback Najja Johnson, who led the Mid-American Conference in interceptions last season. “He was cool because he never got mad about anything and always – I mean always – had a smile on his face.”

About two weeks before Hood’s death, I ran into him grocery shopping at Wegmans. It was the last of many times I saw him late at night around Western New York; he could often be found sweeping the floor at Wal-Mart. His job there always took me aback, given that he was a Division I athlete.

As I passed Hood’s packed grocery cart, I considered all the athletes who have finished their careers at UB and gone on to do great things. They’ve completed a chapter in their lives as Bulls and progressed to bigger and better things. Three players from last year’s team, for ex-

ample, are in NFL training camps right now.

Hood was headed for a successful post-football life. He was friendly and well educated – and, above all, resilient and selfless.

Oddly enough, it’s not always the on-the-field stars who sports reporters root for the most. We most enjoy the athletes who remember our names or the young men who stand out by making an impression as people rather than athletes. Saron Hood was that kind of man.

He shot for the stars, and while he never won a championship or had a huge statistical season, if you talk to the people who knew him, you’ll

know he reached that astronomical level. His potential was endless, and he actualized it – not by football standards, but by personal standards. By simply being a good person.

We can all learn a thing or two from Hood.

The irony of our generation’s YOLO philosophy is that we completely misinterpret a simple acronym with profound importance. It is essential to constantly remind ourselves that we do, in fact, only live once, else we forget our own mortality, but it is also important to examine what that means.

See Reach for the stars, page A5

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Notable UB alumni and their impact in the world TV host, Super Bowl winner, Boston Bruins owner and others graduated from UB In 2005, Weinstein left Miramax to form The Weinstein Company. He has continued to be one of the biggest film producers in the industry.

ERIC CORTELLESSA Editorial Editor

Beyond the work that happens within the classrooms and halls of our campus, there are several distinguished alumni who have spread the university’s name across the globe.

The physician-astronaut studied geology at UB and received her B.A. in 1974. After college, Baker went on to medical school at Cornell University and subsequently worked for NASA. She started working as a medical officer at the Lyndon Johnson Space Center before being selected as an astronaut candidate. In June of 1985, she officially became an astronaut.

She has traveled into outer space on three occasions (in 1989, 1992 and 1995) and overall has spent 686 hours in space.

Baker was born and raised in Bayside, N.Y., by Claire and Mel Schulman, a politician and a doctor, respectively.

Courtesy of Hofstra University

Wolf Blitzer Best known for his television presence, Wolf Blitzer is the host of The Situation Room on CNN. He has been with the network since 1990 and is now its lead political anchor.

Blitzer graduated from UB with a bachelor of arts in 1970. He was a member of the Jewish fraternity on campus, Alpha Epsilon Pi, and majored in history.

In 1948, Blitzer was born in Augsburg, Germany. His parents, who were Holocaust survivors and refugees from Poland, moved to America when Blitzer was young. Blitzer grew up in Buffalo, and after graduating from Kenmore West Senior High School, he decided to remain local and attend UB. After graduating from UB, he studied for two years at Johns Hopkins University earning his Master’s in international relations. As a graduate student, he studied abroad in Jerusalem and learned Hebrew. He began his journalism career through the Tel Aviv bureau of Reuters, an international news agency.

In 1973, Ari Rath, an editor of the Jerusalem Post, hired him as the newspaper’s Washington correspondent. During the 1970s and ’80s, Blitzer covered American politics and the Middle East for a variety of newspapers.

In 1990, Blitzer began working at CNN and has held positions ranging from military affairs reporter to White House correspondent to host of a Sunday morning interview program. He began anchoring his first show in 2000. Since 2005, he’s been hosting The Situation Room, a three-hour newscast on weekday afternoons.

Courtesy of Jarrett Frazier

Courtesy of Nick Step

Harvey Weinstein Harvey Weinstein produced Pulp Fiction, Good Will Hunting, The Aviator, Sicko and The Artist and several other Hollywood movies and independently financed productions.

In 2012, TIME Magazine listed him as one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World.

The executive producer graduated from UB in 1973. Weinstein, his brother Bob and his friend Corky Burger were known for producing rock concerts in Buffalo during that time. Weinstein grew up with a passion for movies. He established a production company with Bob from the profits of the concerts. They called it Miramax, named after their parents Miriam and Max. During the ’80s, they had modest commercial success with art-house films that earned attention before becoming the biggest independent studio in America in 1989, when they released Steven Soderbergh’s Sex, Lies, and Videotape – winner of the Palm d’Or (the highest prize at the Cannes Film Festival).

In 1993, Disney offered the Weinstein brothers $80 million for ownership of Miramax. After accepting the deal that allowed them to remain head of the company, they released the blockbuster and international phenomenon Pulp Fiction, directed by Quentin Tarantino. The film also won the Palm d’Or.

James Starks James Starks was born and raised in Niagara Falls. At Niagara Falls High School, he was captain of the football team but was considered only a two-star recruit by Rivals. com. His only Division I scholarship offer came from UB. In 2011, he won Super Bowl XLV as a running back on the Green Bay Packers.

While at UB, Starks had a stellar career.

He set a career-rushing record with 3,140 yards and 40 touchdowns. He aggregated over 1,000 yards in his sophomore and junior seasons as one of the top backs in the Mid-American Conference – becoming the first 1,000-yard rusher in the UB’s Division I history.

In 2010, the Packers selected him in the sixth round as the 193rd overall pick in the draft. Starks got injured during training camp and had to sit out the majority of the season until making his NFL debut for a December game against the San Francisco 49ers.

His debut resulted in a strong performance, and in the Packers’ Wild Card game in the playoffs, Starks broke the team’s rookie postseason record for rushing yards in a single game.

The boy from Niagara Falls was able to do more than that in his rookie season – he helped his team win the Super Bowl. Starks continues to play for the Packers. He is number 44. Look out for him on Sundays.

Courtesy of sellsup

Jeremy Jacobs While many in Buffalo lament with the saying, “Buffalo is a drinking town with a hockey problem,” Jeremy Jacobs, owner of the Boston Bruins, has surmounted this aspect of the perceived geographic curse.

Jacobs maintains a residence in East Aurora, a suburb of Buffalo. He was born and raised in Buffalo and attended UB’s School of Management. His father, a Jewish immigrant from Poland, founded Delaware North Companies, now a global hospitality and food service business that Jacobs currently owns and operates.

He became owner of the Bruins in 1975, and in 2011, they won the Stanley Cup. Jacobs is widely known for his philanthropy work – donating millions of dollars to charities every year. He’s even given $1 million to Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo and recently pledged $100,000 to victims and families of the Boston Marathon bombings.

In March, Forbes magazine ranked him as one of the world’s billionaires with a net worth of $2.7 billion.

UB granted Jacobs an honorary doctorate and named the Jacobs Management Center to honor the Jacobs family, including Jeremy’s father, who donated $1 million to the university in 1985.

Email: eric.cortellessa@ubspectrum.com

Courtesy of Tecnopolis Argentina 2012

Ellen S. Baker Ellen Baker is the chief of the education/ medical branch of the NASA Astronaut office.

Continued from page A3: Reach for the stars Why does only living once mean we should indulge in self-gratifying? Why does this philosophy mean “you should go have as much fun as you can and please yourself in the moment, because you might not be around tomorrow?”

If we really think about it, shouldn’t we aim to make an impact with our one life?

Shouldn’t YOLO mean we do things that touch other people so we leave behind a legacy that speaks not of our selfish nature but instead of what we did for others?

We recognize our time on earth is brief, and for that reason, we do not think of ourselves first. We live like Hood.

“Overall, he matured much faster than the rest of us and tried to explain that life was more than just the bubble that we assume revolved around us,” Johnson said.

Johnson is pursuing his Master’s in education, but he was learning in this case. Hood taught his teammates. We should all emulate that behavior.

Remember what Johnson said Hood tried to do in his time at UB: explain that life was

more than just the bubble that we assume revolved around us.

If I’ve learned anything in my first three years at UB, in my two as an editor at The Spectrum and one as editor in chief, it’s that I don’t know much of anything except that it pays to be good to people.

Some of the friends you make during your freshman year will die before you graduate; that is not an opinion but a fact. I tell you that to encourage you to love everyone you meet with all the emotion you can muster.

Remember names; you’ll learn lots of names. Smile a lot, no matter how you’re feeling.

Here is my biggest piece of advice for college, something I think Saron Hood would agree with: Just be good to people. There is more than the bubble.

Email: aaron.mansfield@ubspectrum.com

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Last year’s headlines: A year in review

Courtesy of Courtesy of John Armstrong

SAM FERNANDO

Senior News Editor

UB shuts down contested shale institute On Nov. 19, President Satish Tripathi closed the Shale Resources and Society Institute (SRSI).

Controversy surrounded SRSI since its inception became public in April 2012. Questions arose as to how it was founded, whether the oil industry helped fund it and the merit of its reports about fracking – the process of extracting natural gas in which gallons of water, chemicals and sand are pumped underground to break rocks apart and release the gas within the rocks.

Bruce Pitman, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, denied that SRSI received any industry funding.

Spectrum file photo

In August 2012, James Holstun, an English professor, created the UB Coalition for Leading Ethically in Academic Research (UBCLEAR). The group gathered 83 signatures from professors and affiliates demanding more transparency about the funding, founding and governance of SRSI. Protesters gathered at SUNY Board of Trustees meetings urging the board to make UB submit a report about the operations of SRSI. The board obliged and the trustees made the report public on Oct. 29.

On Nov. 6, UB announced its new Joint Committee on Research and Scholarship to review policies and assess how the university should handle conflicts of interests and the formations of institutes.

The opposition to the institute was too big to ignore and, two weeks later, Tripathi closed the institute citing a “cloud of uncertainty” looming over SRSI.

Four students hospitalized from carbon monoxide leak in Richmond Quad On Feb. 17, a carbon monoxide leak in Richmond Hall caused four students to be hospitalized after they reported feeling dizzy and lightheaded and having burning sensations in their eyes and skin.

The leak emerged when a hot water boiler on the first floor malfunctioned, preventing the exhaust gas containing carbon monoxide from ventilating properly, according to Vice President for University Communications Joseph Brennan.

The carbon monoxide detectors that were supposed to be in the room with the hot water boiler – in conjunction with state law – went missing. UB, however, had passed the annual fire control and prevention dormitory inspection in October, so the detectors must have been present at that time, according to Brennan.

Neil Campbell, Bennett Sciacca and Tijo Mathew, three of the four students affected, were sent to Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital.

Doctors told Mathew he had 27 times the normal level of CO in his system and that Campbell had 26 times and Sciacca had 17 times.

Campbell said if he and Mathew hadn’t driven to the hospital after feeling light-headed, numb and “drunk,” they “probably would not have woken up the next morning.”

Since the leak occurred, UB has replaced all hard-wired detectors with battery-operated detectors in every dormitory on North Campus. South Campus will be equipped with the same detectors by the end of the summer.

Reggie Witherspoon fired as men’s basketball coach On March 15, a day after the Bulls lost in the Mid-American Conference Tournament, Athletic Director Danny White announced via email that longtime men’s basketball coach Reggie Witherspoon had been fired.

“After much consideration, we have determined that a change in leadership for our men’s basketball program is necessary,” White said in the press release. “This was a

very difficult decision because I understand the impact Coach Witherspoon has made to our University and community. To be sure, our program is in a much stronger position than when Reggie and his staff took over.”

Witherspoon coached the Bulls for 14 years with a 198-228 record – tied for the second-most victories in program history. Witherspoon was also the longest-tenured coach among all Big Four – Greater Western New York area – teams.

Witherspoon was an iconic figure on the UB campus. He was praised by many for stressing the importance of education in his locker room.

His firing surprised the UB community and had students, former athletes and other university figures discussing White’s decision.

White hired former Duke basketball star Bobby Hurley as head coach just two weeks after Witherspoon’s firing.

Michael McTarnaghan, via Twitter

Smoking incident causes fire in Spaulding 1 On May 2, a fire broke out in a fourth-floor dorm room in Spaulding 1, causing an evacuation of the building.

Alec Seidenberg is accused of dropping a butane torch while smoking marijuana, setting the room ablaze.

Seidenberg and his girlfriend escaped the fire by jumping out the window to the ledge below. Both students were taken to Erie County Medical Center with minor injuries.

The fire damaged the dorm structure and the contents of the room, according to University Police. The total damage was estimated around $250,000.

UPD arrested Seidenberg, who is being charged with arson, possession of marijuana, reckless endangerment and criminal mischief in Amherst Town Court.

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Beginning January 2014 Classes will be offered during the new Winter Session, a three- week term between the fall and spring semesters.

Winter Session provides an opportunity to expand academic offerings in new, creative ways. Catch up and stay on track to graduate or pursue courses to which you want to give your undivided attention. The Winter Session class schedule will be available in late August.

Registration begins Oct. 1!

Find a course or two that’s right for you at

ubthiswinter.buffalo.edu.

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Anti-abortion display invokes student response On April 15-16, the area directly outside the Student Union was met with a whirlwind of controversy and opposition. A graphic display of aborted fetuses, lynching and the Holocaust greeted students from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Christian Andzel, the president of UB Students for Life, invited the Center of Bio-Ethical Reform’s “Genocide Awareness Project” to bring the display to campus. He knew it was going to make people feel uncomfortable, but he said that was the point. He believed it was “time to resonate the word abortion with pictures.”

That Monday, Laura Curry, an adjunct professor in the media study department, was arrested and charged with disorderly conduct

for voicing her outrage of the display and repeatedly using the word “f**k.” Six hundred people signed a petition that called for the dismissal of the case. The charges against Curry were dropped on May 9.

That Tuesday, students organized to protest the display. The estimated 150 students were outraged at the gruesome images and the fact that the display connected abortion and genocide together. By the day’s end, the number of abortion rights advocates greatly outnumbered the anti-abortion protestors.

Andzel believed the two days were beneficial. He was happy to get the discussion going. The display also got students aware of the abortion debate UB Students for Life was hosting later in the week.

Spectrum file photo

The Heights of Fear For years, the area surrounding UB’s South Campus, better known as the University Heights, has had a history of housing violations, absentee landlordism and a high crime rate. On Feb. 25, The Spectrum published an article documenting the area’s issues over the past two years and the university’s hands-off approach in financially investing and adequately ensuring student safety.

“We’re not in the protection business,” said Dennis Black, vice president of University Life and Services.

The area is one of the most common off-campus sites for UB students to live, especially international students, because of the convenient location to the bus stop, shops and restaurants and the cheap rates. The article proved that students are regularly victims of burglaries, robberies, assaults and more by living in the neighborhood, and the housing viola-

tions are abundant in most houses.

Black and other administrators insist the university is not responsible for student safety off campus. Other universities, like the University of Pennsylvania, Ohio State University and Canisius College, have worked with local police, state legislatures or landlords to protect students living in nearby off-campus homes.

UB’s website states: “Some of the crime in Heights neighborhood (sic) is related to the abuse of alcohol among young people who reside in or visit it. Some of this behavior leads to so-called nuisance crimes, such as vandalism. More serious incidents include acts of violence, though they are rare.”

The evidence, however, shows the opposite. Last year in the area, police reported over 500 major crimes, which include homicides, assaults, rapes, larcenies, robberies, burglaries and vehicle thefts. Since 2007, rape in the Heights has increased by 50 percent, assaults by

Stay connected with The Spectrum throughout the year by following us.

16.6 percent, robberies by 9 percent and larcenies by 7 percent, according to Buffalo Police crime statistics.

On Feb. 27, The Spectrum published an editorial urging President Satish Tripathi – who declined to be interviewed for “The Heights of Fear” – to respond to the article and, more importantly, to address the issues of the Heights.

On March 1, Tripathi responded to the editorial with “Enriching Our Communities,” an open letter addressed to the university community that outlined UB’s vision for all three of its campuses.

The letter, which can be found by searching the title on ubspectrum. com, includes a promise that the university is committed to ensuring the safety of all students, and Tripathi asked for the continued support of city and community neighbors.

Email: news@ubspectrum.com

@UBSpectrum /UBSpectrum

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Meet the SA e-board

Johns, Selsky, Chhabria committed to TIE plan as they take over student government

Photos by Aline Kobayashi, The Spectrum

SAM FERNANDO

Senior News Editor

Nick Johns, president In April, Nick Johns ran for Student Association president. In his platform, he made many promises, but at the core of his party’s agenda were three words that summed up his plan: Transparency, Inclusiveness and Efficiency.

Now, three months after his victory, the junior business and political science major pledges to continue his “TIE” promise. He said he is “the official undergraduate representative of the SA to the university as a whole,” and he plans to make the most of his leadership role.

“My job is to oversee the general direction of SA,” Johns said. “I

have to make sure that from top to bottom we have one concrete vision.”

Johns is looking forward to his administration and wants undergraduate students to know he is supposed to be their voice. He plans to be more accessible to students and encourages them to come to him with any problems or concerns they might have.

“While we are college students, we are working for you,” Johns said. “We aren’t working against you. We are trying to make sure that student life on campus is overall better.”

Apart from his overall goals of transparency, inclusiveness and efficiency, Johns is working on many smaller projects, like working with SA webmasters to update the website. In his platform, he said the site is too cluttered and he wanted to make it easier for students to understand. He is also working with administration to figure out a way to get enclosed bus stops so students won’t have to wait outside for the bus during the cold Buffalo winters.

He stresses how important it is to get more people involved. He encourages freshmen to take advantage of the opportunities SA provides.

“SA is a wonderful resource on campus to get to know more people, learn leadership capabilities, fill up your extracurricular and what not. It is a better way to find yourself.”

Johns wants this year to be a great one and said he is working tirelessly to make that happen.

“There is never a dull day on campus,” Johns said. “You can never not have things to do.”

Lyle Selsky, vice president From here on out, Lyle Selsky is the “point man” for the clubs, he said.

As vice president, Selsky is responsible for making sure the needs of all SA clubs are heard.

But just like Johns, he also stresses the importance of TIE – transparency, inclusiveness and efficiency – for the SA as a whole.

He said the best way for freshmen to make the transition into college is to start trying new things.

And joining a club fits the bill.

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Choose from over 600 programs in 70 countries Scholarships are available  Fulfill degree requirements Mark your calendars for the following events: Study Abroad Fair– Wednesday September 18th Photo Contest– Thursday November 21st Group Advising Sessions– Held throughout the semester UB Study Abroad 210 Talbert Hall  studyabroad@buffalo.edu www.buffalo.edu/studyabroad

“There is always something to do,” Selsky said. “There are over 160 clubs – even more temporary clubs. If there is something you want to do, the SA is where to go.

It’s all about taking advantage of that resource.”

Selsky takes pride in the diversity that exists at UB – a diversity that he said exists in not only the people but also the many different clubs.

Just like he encourages students to try something different and meet new people, he wants clubs to interact the same way.

“I want everyone working together to make bigger and better events,” Selsky said. “When you combine your resources, there are a lot more possibilities and a lot more capabilities.”

Selsky helped plan the summer orientations for incoming freshmen.

Communication is the key to having a successful year, according to Selsky. He said that means better communication between e-board members, and more importantly, better communication between SA and the students it represents.

If students have any questions, he said they should feel free to come visit him in room 350 in the Student Union.

“I am always welcoming and open,” Selsky joked. “As long you as you don’t openly insult my favorite sports teams, we will be good.”

Siddhant Chhabria, treasurer Next year, SA will have an estimated $3.6 million budget. And Treasurer Siddhant Chhabria will be the man overseeing every expenditure.

He said his job is to make sure “the money is going to the right places,” including making sure clubs have access to their individual budgets.

Chhabria thinks students are unaware they fund the SA budget and he plans to illuminate this fact.

“I don’t think [freshmen] know they pay a $94.75 activity fee – they probably just think it’s just part of their tuition bill,” Chhabria said.

“Think about it this way: If you go shopping and spend $100 … you’d utilize that $100 to its maximum potential.”

He said that in the same way, students should try to get the most out of “their money.”

The majority of events that are held on campus for students can be attributed to SA, he said. From the Fall and Spring Fest concerts to the Distinguished Speaker Series, these events are funded by the $3.6 million budget from the mandatory student activity fee.

He agrees with Selsky that communication is the key to a successful year.

“Improving communication will be a really big strength to SA as a whole,” Chhabria said.

When asked how he feels this year is going to go, he grinned with a chuckle in his answer.

“It’s going to be fun,” he said.

“We have a lot of things planned.

Just wait and see.”

Email: news@ubspectrum.com

A10

ubspectrum.com

Monday, July 1, 2013

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ubspectrum.com

Monday, July 1, 2013

A11

Tripathi announces A DOSE OF REALITY ‘ReligiouslyThe truth about drugs and their effects Neutral Calendar’ *OPINION* to begin 2014 HANNAH BENDER

Freelance Writer

RACHEL RAIMONDI

Senior News Editor

Dr. Richard Cohen believes President Satish Tripathi is hindering the religious practices of students and faculty members at UB. On May 23, Tripathi announced the creation of the “Religiously-Neutral Academic Calendar,” which includes classes on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur in an attempt to “ensure greater continuity in the academic schedule and minimize course disruptions for students.”

The decision came from the president after he received the Faculty Senate Executive Committee’s recommendation that no religious holidays should be recognized by the university and observed with a day off from classes.

“Does President Tripathi think that we are stupid?” Cohen posted on UB Reporter. “The UB academic calendar is not ‘religiously neutral’ because it purposely has no classes on Sundays, Christmas and Easter.”

Cohen, the director of the Institute of Jewish Thought and Heritage at UB, said the calendar has nothing to do with religion, but rather the administration’s desire for a more fluid semester with fewer single days off throughout the 14 weeks.

However, this is a moot point, according to Lyle Selsky, the vice president of the Student Association. He believes students are going to practice their faith even if classes are being held. Jewish faith prohibits attending work or school and using modern transportation and electronics on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

During a Faculty Senate meeting in March, junior occupational therapy major Ilana Saffeir explained she chose UB over a private school because of the university’s observance of her religion and the larger Jewish community. Cohen believes students like Saffeir will now be less likely to enroll at UB.

“The decision will have a dampening effect, especially because SUNY at Binghamton has retained Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur as academic holidays on their calendar,” he said in an email. “Making matters worse, Binghamton is of course closer to NYC, where the largest percentage of NY’s large Jewish population resides – making Binghamton also far more convenient for Jewish students than Buffalo.”

UB will be the 23rd SUNY fouryear university to hold classes on the holidays. Some universities, like Stony Brook University, made the change effective as recently as 2012-13 academic year. The change also follows the practices of the governments of New York State and New York City, which close on no religious holiday other than Christmas Day. Philosophy professor William Baumer welcomes the change and thinks the removing of all religious holidays from the academic calendar lends itself to “non-discrimination.” During a Faculty Senate meeting in 2002, Baumer motioned for UB to observe the holy days, but looking back, he believes this was a mistake. On March 5, he argued that students are supposed to be accommodated by their professors anyway if a class conflicts with religious practice.

Tripathi upheld that policy in his announcement about the change.

The new academic calendar will take effect in the 2014-15 academic year for undergraduate and graduate students; the law, medical and dental schools follow individual approved calendars. Before the start of the fall 2013 semester, the Office of the Provost is set to provide a more detailed policy to professors on how to accommodate the religious observances of their students.

Society and our parents twisted reality for us. I had no idea I would be offered weed, alcohol, cocaine, acid and hydrocodone my freshman year. I wasn’t prepared when I realized I would have to find a ride home from South Campus after someone pulled out a handful of pill bottles to start a “Skittle party.” I was highly unprepared when I saw someone I knew holding his girlfriend, screaming for someone to call 911 because she was unresponsive after injecting heroin.

I work at Erie County Medical Center (ECMC), and I spoke to five different nurses at two local hospitals about the varying reasons college students come to the emergency room. The nurses said there are two obvious reasons: traumatic injury and drug or alcohol misuse.

From health class to talks with our parents, it would seem society does a lot to prepare us for possible encounters with illicit substances or legal ones like alcohol and amphet-

amines. Their sentiments, however, are often inaccurate.

ECMC’s outpatient drug rehabilitation program treats about 60,000 people every year. Its inpatient program allows individuals to get medically detoxified from illegal substances like heroin, cocaine, amphetamines and opiates, as well as alcohol. One thing it doesn’t offer, however, is a detox regimen for cannabis because it’s impossible to overdose on marijuana.

People don’t have to do much work to get a prescription for opiates or amphetamines, though overdosing on these can quickly and easily cause death. “Drug-seekers” looking for an unnecessary refill take up a noticeable portion of the beds in any given emergency room.

I have worked in the ER for almost two years, and I have seen drunken students looking like fools, crying and sobbing for their mothers.

I have yet to see anyone even visit the ER for a marijuana-related issue (other than injuries resulting from fights regarding the substance).

All drugs have potential to be abused in ways that make them “bad” in society’s eyes, but there are also safe ways to use them. Given their illegal nature, I wouldn’t recommend their use. But I know many students will still try illicit drugs.

Substance use is subjective. Every person is different. Your circumstances, where you came from and how you grew up impact your experiences with drugs. Some people can benefit from psychedelic drugs; others should stay far away from them.

As a student – even as an adult – we need to prepare for drug misuse. Educate yourself. You will never regret walking away from a party that gets busted; you will regret waking up in the ER. If you finish this column and take nothing else from it, remember this: Alcohol interacts with drugs in mostly dangerous ways.

Mixing alcohol and drugs will likely turn your overdose threshold down to a frighteningly low level, creating a perfect storm for Serotonin Syndrome and respiratory failure.

Email: news@ubspectrum.com Email: hannahbe@buffalo.edu

For more information, visit academies.buffalo.edu 17 Norton Hall | 716.645.8177 | academy@buffalo.edu

ubspectrum.com

A12

Monday, July 1, 2013

BY RACHEL RAIMONDI

graphic by brian keschinger

This map shows some of the crimes that occurred on UB’s North and South campuses between Aug. 27, 2012, and May 20, 2013. According to University Police, they responded to 227 larcenies, 138 criminal mischiefs, 85 drug-related offenses, 41 burglaries, 12 sex offenses, five robberies, two weapons-related offenses, two auto thefts, two assaults and one rape at the university.

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A14

Monday, July 1, 2013

DON’T JUST ATTEND UB

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UB STUDENTS WHO LIVE ON-CAMPUS GET BETTER GRADES. Learn more about UB residence halls and apartments.

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ubspectrum.com

Monday, July 1, 2013

Singlish 101 TONG MENG

Asst. News Editor

If students remember nothing else from their study abroad in Singapore, they leave with “Lah.” This syllable is used at the end of a sentence to express a spectrum of emotions. It’s basic Singlish – an English-based creole of Chinese, Malay and Tamil.

This cultural nuance is just a small dose of what students will experience while studying in Singapore.

Over nearly two decades, UB established a presence in Singapore, working with the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU). Since UB partnered with SIM to launch a part-time executive MBA program in 1996, the international collaboration has expanded to full-time undergraduate degree programs in a variety of disciplines, according to Stephen Dunnett, vice provost for international education. It also offers study abroad programs at SIM and NTU, giving students from both UB and Singapore a chance to engage in educational and cultural experiences outside their home countries.

A private university set in an urban cityscape, SIM allows Singaporean and international students to obtain UB undergraduate degrees in business, communication, economics, international trade, psychology and sociology under its educational brand, SIM Global Education (SIM GE). The executive MBA program is also still ongoing.

These programs are fully consistent with those offered at UB and they apply the same admission criteria, course requirements, curriculum, instructional format, faculty qualifications and academic standards. In other words, students do not have to travel to Buffalo to obtain an UB degree, although many do so for the experience.

Melissa Tan is one such student.

A recent graduate in communication, she had already spent two years at the UB campus in SIM before coming to Buffalo in the fall of 2012 to finish her last year.

Tan said she had wanted to get an “American college experience.”

Despite having bouts of homesickness and encountering differences in many aspects of life, Tan adjusted well; she hopes to get a job and stay in the fall.

“I’ve made very awesome friends here in Buffalo after a year, so much [so] it would really hurt to leave,” Tan said in an email.

Tobias Reynolds-Tylus, a graduate communication student and Buffalo native, embarked on his study abroad trip in fall 2010 after learning about the country from a Singaporean friend studying at UB. He took all his communication classes at the international UB campus housed within SIM. For Reynolds-Tylus, studying in Singapore was a meaningful journey of discovery. As most Singaporeans speak English, there was no language barrier to impede interactions with locals apart from minor confusions caused by Singlish.

Reynolds-Tylus forged close friendships with locals who showed him their private hangout spots and the ins and outs of their culture.

“I had a wonderful experience because I was able to understand what make Singaporeans tick and understand the culture better than if I’d gone to a country [where] maybe I wouldn’t have had that good of an experience understanding the local culture because all I would be doing is going to these sights with Americans,” ReynoldsTylus said.

He learned a lot outside the classroom, as well. Picking up Singlish gave him a cultural experience he couldn’t find in Buffalo. He began to use “lah” in his conversations.

The word had many different implications, something that the Eng-

lish language lacked. If someone is impatient with a dawdling friend, he or she would say, “Oi, hurry up lah!” to convey annoyance. “Lah,” however, can also be used to establish rapport. For instance, instead of saying “please eat,” one could say “eat lah” to extend friendliness and invitation.

So far, 3,546 students from Singapore have enrolled in the UBSIM programs since the summer of 2004, according to John Wood, senior associate vice provost for international education.

There are many reasons for UB to establish itself in Singapore, according to Dunnett. First, it is a “gateway country” that connects to both Southeast Asia and China.

Second, Singapore is an Englishspeaking country, so UB students will have an easier time studying there. It also has a strong economy with many American and multinational companies, making it a “good laboratory” for students in international trade, economics and business.

Apart from Singapore, UB offers a myriad of exchange programs, with more than 40 institutions worldwide, according to the website of the Office of Vice Provost for International Education (OIE). Host countries include Australia, Brazil and Japan.

Both Reynolds-Tylus and Tan enjoyed their experiences while studying in a foreign country and made lasting memories during their stay.

“Not only do you learn a lot about another culture, but you also learn a lot about yourself,” Reynolds-Tylus said. “You grow as you place yourself in [unfamiliar situations] and see what kind of person you are.”

Reynolds-Tylus has since welcomed three close friends from Singapore to UB, bringing them around Buffalo. This reciprocal of host efforts attests to the close bonds and unforgettable memories they shared in Singapore.

A15

International education in Singapore promotes cultural exchanges

Courtesy of Singapore Institute of Management

UB works with the Singapore Institute of Management to offer various undergraduate degree programs, study-abroad opportunities and an executive MBA program in Singapore. UB also operates in other countries like China and Japan, according to Stephen Dunnett, vice provost for international education.

Email: news@ubspectrum.com

Center for Student Leadership and Community Engagement

Marching Band/”Dazzlers” Dance Team

Student Activities

It’s Student Life@UB Intercultural & Diversity Center

You are probably asking yourself, “What is Student Life?” or “Who is Student Life?” and “Why do I need to know them?”

Student Life is a unit within the Division of Student Affairs that provides meaningful opportunities, programs and services that help students get involved and participate in “out of classroom” educational and social experiences.

Student Unions

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!"#$%"%&'"('#)*+,%-#%./-0"/%1-2,'3'$45%1'#3+64"3'7%8-+$%3*'% Marching Band, or a fraternity or sorority. Find out about the 7 student governments. Attend or help plan one of our many fun programs such as the Haunted Union, Family Weekend or “Late Night” Friday events!

STUDENT LIFE HAS IT ALL!

Student Life Suite 150, Student Union University at Buffalo Buffalo, NY 14260-2100 Tel: (716) 645-2055 Fax: (716) 645-2371 Director: Tom Tiberi student-affairs.buffalo.edu/studentlife/

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A16

Monday, July 1, 2013

François leads community charge UB grad student helps fight for a lighted crosswalk after fatal accident in Amherst RACHEL RAIMONDI

Senior News Editor

Wheat bread, ham and butter. Wheat bread, ham and butter.

Ariel François was making po’boy after po’boy for the silent 13-year-olds in her living room. It was the beginning and the end of her sister’s birthday party. There were barely any decorations and no cookie cake in the fridge. There was no orange or grape soda or the mini muffins birthday girl Briana requested.

There was no time to prepare. Less than an hour before, a Jeep struck Briana and her friend, Erin Suszynski. Another driver had waved to the girls, encouraging them to cross Maple Road on their way back from a local park, just before they were hit.

Over the next few weeks, François watched her sister endure multiple surgeries, say goodbye to Erin, who had died from her wounds, and begin to live with emotional and physical pain in the aftermath of those few steps across an ordinary road in the suburbs. François became angry with the town, the drivers and even the girls.

Now, over a year after the accident, François and the Suszynski family are fighting in Amherst Town Court for the installation of a lighted crosswalk in Erin’s honor.

It was clear to François there would be no party that day. She was about to walk into Wegmans when her mother let out a heartstopping shriek, a scream that said on its own everything was not all right. The women got back in the car and sped home. They didn’t talk about what just happened.

Her mother drove off before François got inside and was surprised by a house full of eighth-graders under no supervision.

Her father was supposed to be there. But he must have been the one she faintly heard crying on the other end of the phone.

“Briana got hit by a car,” one of the children clued her in.

In shock, François went into the kitchen and started making po’boys. The children weren’t hungry, but this was for her. Staying busy would keep her from losing it, she thought.

Until now, François, a second-year biology grad student, hasn’t let herself think about her sister’s accident on that hot June day last summer. Her energy was consumed by making sure her parents ate and got enough sleep. They were like “silly putty left in the sun too long,” François said. It was every parent’s nightmare turned into reality.

ALINE KOBAYASHI, THE SPECTRUM

Ariel (right) sits with her younger sister, Briana, in a local Amherst park where the two frequently go to talk. Last June, a car hit Briana and a friend after being waved across the road by another driver. Ariel is currently fighting in Amherst Town Court to get a crosswalk built at the scene of the accident.

Briana was unconscious after hitting her head on the windshield and being thrown 500 feet. Erin was tangled under the car, though still responsive. There was hope at the hospital. Erin twitched when her feet were scratched and appeared to be recovering quickly from the bruises. When Briana awoke, François looked to Erin for further progression. But on June 20, 2012, 11 days after the accident, the aspiring dancer died suddenly.

On May 6, 2013, almost a year later, François felt hopeful as the families and friends gathered in Amherst Town Hall to discuss the possibilities of the construction. Despite testimonies from Erin’s aunt and Briana, however, the board announced the matter was out of its jurisdiction. This time, François’s hope was not lost, but rather turned into a fire of rage and despair that continually pushes her to protect future neighborhood children like Erin and Briana.

“I don’t think I could ever lose my humanity like that,” François said. “The part that really struck home was the fact that [the board members] apparently live so close to me. This is supposed to be the City of Good Neighbors. And they’re supposed to be working for us.”

As a resident of Culpepper Lane, the street the Suszynski family lives on, Amherst Supervisor Barry Weinstein told the room multiple times he feels for the victims and the families, according to François. He remembers how young,

brown-eyed Erin would walk past the raspberry patches on his lawn and how he would sometimes offer the fruit to her and her friends, he said.

Installing a crosswalk might as well be an admittance of negligence, according to Town Board Member Stephen Sanders.

“I can’t imagine what the Suszynskis are going through,” François said. “[Mrs. Suszynski] had to put her baby in the ground. That’s not supposed to happen. You’re not supposed to put your kids in the ground. It’s supposed to be the other way around.”

For local children, the park at Maple East Elementary is the place to be. The schoolyard, though on busy, five-lane Maple Road, is surrounded by homes owned by young families and old couples. In just one hour last summer, Jerry Suszynski, Erin’s father, counted 30 children crossing the street where his daughter was struck, he told The Buffalo News.

François remembers playing at the park with her childhood friends and going there with a boy she liked when she was a teenager. Now, she avoids the area completely and is haunted by images of her sister in a coma. For days, François didn’t sport a single smile until mittens were put on Briana’s hands so she couldn’t scratch herself.

“I just remember thinking we would make fun of her so much,” François said.

“I kept touching her nose and she’d be half asleep and not know what’s going on and she’d touch her nose. It was the only thing that could make me smile.”

Many Amherst residents, especially those connected to Mill Middle School, where Erin and Briana were students, wanted to help the Suszynski family get the crosswalk installed. With several fundraisers over the past year, they raised over $85,000 and created Erin’s Crossing, a foundation dedicated to “pursuing legislation for mandatory crosswalks at all playgrounds giving pedestrians the right of way, allowing for safe passage,” according to its Facebook page. The foundation has also partnered with LightGuard Systems, Inc., an organization that specializes in lighted crosswalks.

The legal process involved is lengthy but not impossible. On May 16, Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz wrote a letter to the Amherst Town Board outlining the necessary procedures and his assistance and attention. His office, however, is still waiting for the town to formally request a traffic study, a necessary beginning step.

No matter how long it takes, François is committed to the cause despite her busy schedule. This summer, she is studying for the MCAT and looking for a professional job.

The accident has given her even more motivation to get involved in neurology.

“I look at [Briana] and think she is not supposed to be here,” François said. “She technically was not supposed to make it at all. It was a very real possibility for our family …

You see her every day, and you’re just like, that’s really miraculous.”

See Crosswalk, page B9

ubspectrum.com

Monday, July 1, 2013

A17

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Monday, July 1, 2013

Something for everyone UB, Buffalo area sprinkled with food options

ALINE KOBAYASHI, THE SPECTRUM

ALYSSA MCCLURE

Asst. Features Editor

In a single walk down Delaware Avenue this July, participants of the Taste of Buffalo will inhale the tantalizing smell of steaming, saucy chicken wings, chow down on a beef on weck sandwich and be tempted by delicacies like chocolate-dipped cheesecake and strawberries.

The Taste of Buffalo is a twoday festival of food that hosts restaurants from all over the Western New York area. It is an opportu-

nity to share popular dishes, some unique to the Queen City, with the community, and it allows non-Buffalonians to sample some of Buffalo’s finest food.

This food extravaganza and others, like the infamous National Buffalo Wing Festival held the weekend of Labor Day, is just one way Buffalo demonstrates the extensive variety of food the city offers.

UB students, when not enjoying the wide-ranging array of campus eateries, enjoy exploring the cuisine Buffalo and its local communities have to offer.

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nne i D y

Victoria Adebambo, a sophomore biomedical engineering major, loves visiting Nette’s Fried Chicken on Main Street near UB’s South Campus. She enjoys the fried chicken there because it reminds her of the southern-styled food in her hometown of Woodstock, Ga. “I didn’t realize I was going to miss [it] coming up to Buffalo,” she said. “But the lady prepares it from scratch; it’s cheap and really delicious.”

Nick Pokoj, a sophomore biomedical sciences major, most enjoys the burritos at Lloyd’s Taco

Truck, a food truck that conducts business traveling all over Buffalo.

“I love it because it’s something unique and I get to explore a new area of the city every time I have to find the truck,” he said.

Though many recognizable chains like Denny’s and Panera Bread offer comfort food near UB, students can taste different cultures and sample Buffalo-famous foods like chicken wings and beef on weck while exploring the Queen City and UB’s campuses.

“UB has an outstanding residential dining program, featuring three

September 6 September 12 September 20 September 27 October 11 October 18 October 24 October 30‐31 November 8 November 15 November 21 December 6

residential dining centers … each with its own experienced chef that creates innovative entrees using the freshest ingredients,” according to the mission statement of UB Campus Dining & Shops. “The unique menus feature a variety of delicious and healthy meals, including traditional favorites, ethnic specialties and vegetarian and vegan selections.”

Freshmen living in residence halls at UB are required to have a meal plan. They can choose from the any-14 or the any-19, which allow 14 or 19 meals per week, re

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Monday, July 1, 2013

spectively. Students are also allotted a set amount of dining dollars, which can be used in convenience stores in the residence halls or when a purchase is less expensive than a meal credit.

Students eating on one of UB’s campuses are able to select from a wide range of dishes – from wings, subs and hamburgers to salads and smoothies – and can get their meal to go or sit down for a nice conversation with friends. There is also a kosher option on campus, located in NY Deli & Diner in Talbert Hall on North Campus.

Between the North and South campuses, UB boasts over 25 dining options.

On North Campus, decadent ice cream sundaes topped with heaping piles of whipped cream can be found at in the Ellicott Complex.

Pistachio’s – located on the second floor of the Student Union – is known for its pasta, made right in front of you amidst the hiss of frying pans and the wafting smell of spices. If you like your meals hot off the grill, Sizzles – located in the Ellicott Complex – is the place for you.

On South Campus, you can grab a quick sandwich and fresh fruit at the Harriman Cafeteria or chomp down on a juicy quarter-pound burger at the Main Street Market.

UB scored a grade of B+ on a College Prowler review of campus dining, compared to a B at SUNY

Geneseo and SUNY Fredonia, according to collegeprowler.com.

The most recent culinary addition to UB is the Crossroads Culinary Center – better known as C3 – located in the Ellicott Complex in Red Jacket Quad on North Campus. This dining center offers food from a wide variety of cultures and healthy options that have received a positive response from students. “[My favorite place to eat on campus] is definitely C3,” said Stan Weir, a sophomore undecided major and shooting guard on the men’s basketball team. “I love everything there [and there are] so many options.”

Off campus, Buffalo boasts many specialty restaurants. If you’re looking for chicken wings, the Anchor Bar on Main Street in downtown Buffalo or is where to go.

Chef ’s Restaurant, located on Seneca Street in Buffalo, is well known for its pasta, hearty sauce and warm bread. Zetti’s, located across from UB’s North Campus on Maple Road, offers New York-style pizza and other Italian dishes.

Evan Klein, a sophomore civil engineering major, likes the pizza at Pizza Plant in local suburb Williamsville.

“In my opinion, the best dish is the ‘pod,’” he said. “It’s a pizza they fold over so all the sauce and toppings are on the inside. It’s actually quite good.”

Buffalo’s culture is richly integrated with cuisine originating in the city or inspired from all over the world. No matter what type of food you’re partial to, you are guaranteed to find something that suits your fancy either on one of UB’s campuses or in the surrounding Buffalo area.

A19

CHEF’S Restaraunt

PHOTOS BY ALINE KOBAYASHI, THE SPECTRUM

Email: features@ubspectrum.com

Duffs (above) and Anchor Bar (right) are among the most popular chicken wing restaurants in Western New York.

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Monday, July 1, 2013

THE STRUT PAST DEPRESSION Recent grad Festberg found hope at UB kEREN BARUCH

Features Editor

For two years, Sara Festberg battled depression and anxiety. She enrolled at Penn State University for her freshman year at college.

After a few months, Festberg realized her state was disabling her from receiving the education she needed. She immediately transferred home in the midst of her spring semester and studied at Nassau Community College. She knew eventually she would have to transfer to a school that challenged her more educationally. She did not, however, know if she would be strong enough to do so.

After experiencing life at three different colleges, Festberg, UB alumna with a degree in health and human services, finally found herself walking across a graduation stage on May 12.

She shook President Satish Tripathi’s hand, and with a grin on her face, strutted away from Alumni Arena ready to take on life after college. Festberg didn’t believe it was possible to find a school she would truly love, but UB proved otherwise.

“I chose to go to Buffalo because I was a transfer student and I wanted to go somewhere where I knew a few people already,” Festberg said. “I wanted somewhere I would be comfortable transitioning in. When I was living at home after Penn State, I visited an old friend at Buffalo and fell in love with the nightlife and the people. After the visit, I realized what I was missing out on by living at home: a college experience.”

Festberg is from Long Island and many high school graduates from her town attended UB. Having previous knowledge about the school through them, she felt UB would be a good place for her to continue to grow, she said.

Penn State was an expensive investment for Festberg’s family.

Upon realizing the experience she received there was not worth the

cost of the school, Festberg decided it was important to focus on finding an affordable education.

The price of attending UB was perfect, she said.

Many incoming freshmen and transfer students choose UB due to the price.

According to admissions.buffalo.edu, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance ranked UB No. 33 in the nation in its 100 Best Values in Public Colleges for 2013 list, and U.S. News & World Report named UB 19th nationwide for graduating students with the least amount of debt. The report states more than half of UB students finish their undergraduate degree completely debt-free.

This year, the university awarded more than $4 million in merit-based scholarships to incoming freshmen, according to admissions.buffalo.edu.

Even after visiting the school, falling in love with the culture at UB and finding an affordable way to receive an education, Festberg was hesitant about what her third college transition would bring.

She felt significantly more confident in herself and her abilities, however, after a year at home. She suggests that any student who is feeling angst and depression should take time to him or herself before engulfing in a new unfamiliar environment. Her time at home gave her the ability to mentally and emotionally prepare.

“I was nervous to transfer [to UB], but I was confident in my decision to go away to school,” Festberg said. “I was no longer depressed and decided I needed to grow up and learn to be away from my comfort zone and my mom.”

Festberg’s close relationships with her mom and sister kept her comfortable and sane at home for the one-year gap between Penn State and UB. She was pleasantly surprised to form such similar close relationships with her peers at UB. See Hope, page B9

Courtesy of Sara Festberg

After trying out three different colleges, Sara Festberg finally found herself walking across a graduation stage on May 12.

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Monday, July 1, 2013

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Continued from page B8: Hope “I can sum up my experience at UB in one word: incredible,” Festberg said. “I couldn’t have asked for a better college experience, which I was fortunate enough to have for two and a half years. I joined a sorority, where I met my best friends in the entire world; I know that sounds corny and typical, but it’s true.”

On top of learning the value and strength of what friendship can do to a person, Festberg obtained the education that she was denied of at Penn State and Nassau. She said she loved her major, health and human services, and was given extraordinary hands-on experience in her classes.

Upon enrolling in a variety of health and human services courses, such as SSC 413 – addictions treatment, and SOC 206 – social problems, Festberg discovered what she wanted to do with her future: she wanted to help others who faced intense difficulties and struggles, which she encountered in her past. The knowledge she gained from her professors, along with her past anxieties and depression, enabled her to learn about herself. She discovered her passions and desires, whilst evolving into a college student with solid friends, a high-quality education and a level of maturity she did not know she would reach, she said.

“I’m so lucky to have found such good people in my life and none of that would have happened if I didn’t go to Buffalo,” Festberg said.

On one of Festberg’s last nights at UB, a good friend of hers – Larry – passed away.

“Unfortunately, a fresh memory I have looking back at school is the death of my good friend,” Festberg said. “Larry committed suicide the Wednesday before I graduated. I still get choked up when I think and talk about it. I miss him so much and I’ll never really understand why.”

Festberg urges any student who feels depressed, anxious or uneasy in any way to seek help immediately. It’s crucial for college students to take care of themselves, especially when they are away from their families, she said.

Though Larry’s death was not a positive ending or memory to her college experience, Festberg now feels an even stronger desire to help those around her.

UB offers a variety of counseling to its students for free.

Sherri Darrow, director at Wellness Education Services, said most students do a good job of balancing school, work and relationships.

The students who are not well, though, are encouraged to get help and utilize the services available.

According to Darrow, if students are having difficulties coping with high levels of anxiety, they should make an appointment with UB’s Counseling Services. The therapists are trained and they work exclusively with college students and can support student needs using one-on-one and group counseling.

“There are students who have a diagnosis of anxiety or depression before they come to college, and they may or may not have experiences with therapy and/or medication,” Darrow said. “By scheduling an appointment with Counseling Services sooner rather than later, a student can establish support early in their careers.”

Upon dealing with her anxiety and depression and overcoming her stresses, Festberg was able to receive the positive college experience she always hoped for. She encourages transfer students and incoming freshmen to take chances.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience; do not take it for granted,” Festberg said.

“If you are unhappy in a situation, do your best to change it and remove yourself from it. Figure out who you are and who you want to be. Be spontaneous and always remember mistakes happen and life goes on.”

With the memory of Larry, the internal battles against herself and the knowledge she gained within the UB lecture halls in the back of her mind, and her friends and family by her side, Festberg is prepared for her future, she said.

Diploma in hand, dressed in her blue cap and gown, Festberg strutted off the stage and away from UB, ready to embrace whatever is next in life.

Email: features@ubspectrum.com

Continued from page B4: Crosswalk A year ago, François would never have considered herself a religious person. But now she thanks God for her sister’s recovery even if life hasn’t gone back to normal. Briana still sees a doctor, orthodontist and tutor as a result of the accident.

An ordinary day is taxing and Briana is often exhausted by the evening, according to her sister.

“She cuddles up on the couch,” François said. “If you try to talk to her about [the accident], she gets up and walks away. She’s a completely different person now.”

The once-social teenager goes out with her friends less frequently now. She experiences bouts of depression and often wakes up screaming and crying in the night. The girls’ mother still attends grief counseling and their father uses long hours at work as a coping mechanism.

Still, François is holding her family together. The “crazy emotions” she thought she could package away a year ago are back.

But she is thankful. Thankful for her sister’s recovery and for the motivation she and the community have to get the crosswalk created.

François often sees drivers do the same actions that led to the accident. The crosswalk isn’t just wanted – it’s needed, she said. For the sister who François said is everything she wishes to be and more, François is devoted to doing whatever it takes to get the crosswalk installed.

Email: news@ubspectrum.com

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Monday, July 1, 2013

Creativity & cookie dough I wanted abs this summer, but instead I got a boyfriend

ALYSSA MCCLURE

Asst. Features Editor

Everyone was laughing, and I didn’t know why.

I was in the kitchen of my residence hall making chocolate chip cookies. Two of my friends and I were jamming to music blaring out of a laptop and using wooden spoons and spatulas as microphones while happily rolling cookie dough into balls.

A few more of our friends came by to see what smelled so good and stayed to hang out.

I was just rolling cookie dough and placing the balls on the tray, but everyone couldn’t stop laughing and no one would tell me why.

After demanding to know what was going on and threatening to smear cookie dough in my friends’ hair, someone finally told me.

Every time I turned to my left to scoop more cookie dough out of the bowl, one of my friends would snatch a cookie dough ball off of the cookie sheet to my right and eat it. And I would contentedly roll another ball and set it down on the sheet exactly where they had just left an empty space.

I was furious. I made good on my threats of ambush and several of my friends got cookie dough in their faces and on their clothing. What few cookies I managed to bake did turn out scrumptious, and we had a feast.

I remember this night vividly as one of the many times cooking brought my friends and me closer while living in the dorms my freshman year. Though we all had meal plans, when dinner or snack options felt boring and monotonous or we wanted to celebrate a special occasion, we headed to the kitchen.

We cooked doubled recipes of chicken casserole and heaping bowls of pasta. We made birthday cakes, brownies, chocolate chip cookies, cake cookies, s’mores cookies, pancakes, French toast – the options seemed endless. We were constantly browsing the Internet for new ideas.

I was known throughout my floor for always having a baked good for my fellow hallmates to taste test. There was a door to a stairwell right next to the kitchen, and people would walk by and yell, “What are you baking now, Alyssa?”

Baking was an outlet for me to relieve my stress. And I loved being able to hand out my creations to everyone on my floor. It was my hope that an unexpected cookie might make their day a little brighter.

By the time winter break rolled around at the end of my first semester, I had a cooking stash in my room that took up an entire shelf of my closet: bags of flour and sugar obscuring boxes of baking soda and bottles of vanilla extract, wooden spoons and pot holders poking out from pans and bowls stacked precariously on top of shiny cookie sheets.

It was not uncommon for one of my friends to poke his or her head into my room and say, “Hey, can I borrow your [insert any random cooking object here]?”

Cooking in the dorms is a great way to bond and spice up your daily routine. Living on campus does not mean being stuck in a meal plan. Most of the ingredients my friends and I used could be purchased in a convenience store in one of the residence halls or at Wegmans, which we could get to by bus.

The night before the first of our friends left for the end of the year, we had a huge pasta dinner as a floor family and talked about our memories of the year. Even though freshmen are required to have a meal plan, this doesn’t have to mean feeling trapped within a swipe of your UB card. Cooking was a bonding experience for us, and it is an option for others, too.

You don’t have to be a master of the kitchen. Just start with creativity and some cookie dough.

Email: ammcclur@buffalo.edu

SARA DINATALE

Managing Editor

The first time he asked me out on a date, I said ‘no.’ I said my mind wouldn’t change.

I didn’t agree with the words coming out of my own mouth, but I thought to myself: “The poor kid just isn’t going to understand – he isn’t part of the plan.”

He felt like the antithesis of the plan. He couldn’t possibly understand that I had my summer mapped out, and a relationship was never part of the equation.

But plans don’t always need to be so rigid. The scenic route can still lead you to the same destination.

You should view college in the same way.

If you never take a chance, you could miss out on one of the best things that has ever happened to you.

Sometimes the comfortable decision is the bad decision. Sometimes the risk is worth it.

But the comfortable decision facing me this summer before my junior year was to rock my internship at the local newspaper, write a lot, take a summer class and to, yes, join a gym. I didn’t want to date. I didn’t want the added complication I assumed a relationship would bring.

There’s a balance worth finding, but in school we are trained to formulate plans.

And I know that many of you – I mean you freshmen – probably have the next four years of your lives outlined. Many of you picked UB for a specific program; many of you will wind up leaving that program.

If you have your college experience mapped out – great. Maybe you’re in the perfect major. Maybe you’re going to graduate summa cum laude and be thankful you stuck to the plan your guidance counselor helped you make when you were applying to colleges.

But life happens.

It sneaks up on you. It stares you straight in the face when you’re sitting in a parked car and asks you on a date.

And if you’re like me, your gut is going to tell you to say ‘no.’ You’re going to pad your bad decision, your lack of willingness to take risks, with reassurances that you are doing the “smart” thing.

Now, my plan has changed, but it’s not all that different. A boyfriend didn’t counteract my deep-seated drive to work hard this summer. But I was scared of change.

Take a mental snapshot of yourself right now, because you aren’t going to be the same person in a year. Your freshman year of college is going to change you – your sophomore year, too. Tomorrow could be the day something strikes you that totally changes your course.

So, to stick to a plan – even if it’s one heavily endorsed by your parents – that you created when you were a senior in high school can wind up being pretty foolish.

It’s good to have a direction. I’ve wanted to be a journalist since I was a sophomore in high school. My destination hasn’t changed, but my journey to that goal changes every day. There is no foolproof formula to success. You need to always work your hardest, but the unexpected might show up on your doorstep with a sunflower and a big heart.

Don’t run away from what you don’t understand at first.

You’re bound to make some mistakes. It wouldn’t be taking a risk if there weren’t possible negative consequences looming in the background.

But in college, you’re encouraged to mess up, try things out and learn the kind of life lessons that can’t be taught in the classroom.

You need to figure how to be a functional adult and cowering away from the unfamiliar is going to minimize your growth as a person.

I could be doing crunches alone in a gym, but instead I’m taking bike rides in Delaware Park with someone I really care about.

You can’t plan for that to happen. And life’s greatest rewards seem to pop up when we least expect them to.

Plans are good, but living life is better.

You don’t have it all figured out, I promise. But that’s totally fine. No one does, myself included.

Email: sara.dinatale@ubspectrum.com

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Monday, July 1, 2013

A23

Three’s company

UB grads take their friendship, engineering degrees to MIT SAM FERNANDO

Senior News Editor

Four years after walking into UB’s freshman orientation, three recent graduates are planning to take their engineering degrees to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Steven Brown, Sourobh Ghosh and Daniel Salem each earned a full scholarship to attend U.S. News & World Report’s top-ranked engineering graduate program – a title MIT has held every year since the magazine began ranking graduate schools in 1990.

The three friends, who were awarded tuition-free study for the next five years as they each pursue their doctorate in different areas in engineering, decided to become roommates.

“Minimizing the stress in your life outside of academics makes it much easier to focus on your studies and succeed,” said Brown, who graduated with a degree in chemical engineering and a minor in mathematics.

Salem agreed. Although he is excited about this opportunity, he is also nervous to start the next chapter of his academic career.

“Going into a foreign environment and not knowing many people, it’s more comfortable to be able to live with the people you know – obviously you will meet new people – but having those few people you know will make the transition a lot easier, ” said Salem, who also graduated with a degree in chemical engineering.

Brown and Salem were in the chemical engineering major together at UB and became friends after taking multiple classes together.

They met Ghosh, who graduated with a degree in economics and mechanical engineering and a minor in mathematics, through mutual friends. Brown and Salem said there is a close-knit community among students in the various engineering programs.

UB Reporter

They all applied for scholarships in the fall and received acceptances over winter break.

On top of their full-ride scholarships, Ghosh and Salem earned the National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Fellowship, which “supports outstanding graduate students who are pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees in fields within NSF’s mission,” according to the NSF website.

The fellowship will fund three of the five years at MIT for Salem and Ghosh. Their MIT scholarship will cover for the remaining two years.

All levels of the engineering faculty are taking notice of the three students’ accomplishments.

“I am simply delighted for Steven, Sourobh and Daniel, and wish them great success at MIT,” said Liesl Folks, the dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS). “The opportunities that lie in front of them as they enter this next phase of their educa-

Steven Brown (left), Sourobh Ghosh (middle) and Daniel Salem (right) are heading to MIT for graduate school in the fall with full scholarships. The three friends were classmates in UB’s engineering program and have decided to room together as they embark on their journey toward higher education.

tion are tremendous, and everyone here at UB Engineering will be eager to hear of the impacts they are bound to have on the world around us.”

Salem said opportunities he seized at UB weren’t necessarily “obvious.” Sometimes, students have to go out and seek them.

“It is important for students to realize that UB has a lot to offer and you can really do anything after your time at UB – it’s just a matter of how much you are willing to work, your ambition and searching for it,” Salem said.

Ghosh credits SEAS for his success. He said the faculty is supportive and allowed him to get firsthand experience in the field. They pushed him and always had his best interest in mind, he said.

“Undergraduate research was one of the main reasons I decided to attend UB,” Ghosh said. “UB engineering is very open to the idea of undergraduates getting handson experience in research. Because

I knew I wanted to pursue higher education, the best thing you could do is get involved in research – so that’s what I did.”

Kemper Lewis, an adjunct professor of mechanical engineering and Ghosh’s research adviser since 2011, called Ghosh “a student that comes around once every few years.”

“Sourobh is committed to excellence and integrity and because of this he is committed to true scholarship,” Lewis said in an email.

“Scholarship is found in the marriage of excellence and integrity, as both are necessary. He wants to make a difference in his scholarship as well, not only in the scientific community, but in the larger global community.”

Brown echoed Ghosh’s feelings about SEAS – specifically the chemical engineering department.

“UB has given me all of the tools necessary to succeed and motivated me to continue my education,” Brown said. “The chemical engi-

neering department is fantastic.

The faculty members are very personable and responsive to students.

The courses cover a broad range of topics related to chemical engineering, giving students a great background for any field they choose to enter.”

Salem said he accomplished his goals because of the opportunities UB gave him. He wasn’t sure if he was going to get into MIT, his “dream school,” but set the goal and did whatever he could to stay competitive. He said the one opportunity at UB that propelled him to higher education was working with Elizabeth Colucci, an assistant administrative director of the Honors College, who helped him get that competitive edge.

Colucci helped Salem find research opportunities on and off campus. She calls Salem a “multifaceted guy” and admires his drive and work ethic.

“Dan is a hard worker,” Colucci said in an email. “I think Dan has the intellectual curiosity necessary to be a Ph.D. researcher. It takes a special personality to do research and deal with the unknowns and challenges.”

Brown worked closely with Mark Swihart, a professor in chemical and biological engineering. Swihart was impressed with how naturally the material came to Brown and said Brown is successful because he has “a positive attitude, stays calm and works smart.”

Brown, Ghosh and Salem are all unsure of the exact paths they plan to take with their engineering degrees. Brown is leaning toward research while Ghosh and Salem are thinking about plans to teach in academia. Nonetheless, they’re excited to share the journey together like they did at UB. Email: news@ubspectrum.com

Shedding the uniform

TONG MENG

Asst. News Editor

Last fall was the first time I didn’t wear a uniform to school. Instead, I wore a rumpled T-shirt and jeans as I headed to class, passing by countless students who were all dressed differently. The lack of uniformity was unfamiliar. I watched silently as the large crowd moved with me through the narrow hallway, and I felt the lingering graze of swishing skirts and palpable anticipation for a new semester.

I was anxious. I felt exposed. I’d taken off the uniform that I’d worn like a second skin for six years. It was just me.

Prior to starting school, I’d spent close to a year in practically complete isolation. Apart from my family, I didn’t interact much with anyone else. Settling down in a wintry suburban home after spending a lifetime in the island metropolis of Singapore was rougher than expected. I couldn’t go anywhere be-

cause I didn’t know how to drive when I first arrived. I couldn’t work or volunteer because I didn’t have the right permit. Instead, I spent my time between helping my mother straighten out the household and meandering through the Internet.

I was also nursing a broken heart.

I’d done poorly in the A-Level exams – a set of national tests administered annually by the Ministry of Education to college-bound students. Along with school grades from secondary school and junior college (Singapore’s equivalent of high school), the A-Level scores define a student’s qualifications and entry into university.

It is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to prove oneself. Unfortunately, I squandered it. With only two A’s and three B’s, I had not gotten even a preliminary interview from the local law and medical school. Despite being eligible for other faculties in local universities, I was crushed.

So I chose to come to UB. Unsurprisingly, my mother was beyond furious.

“Why not go to the National University of Singapore? Ranked No. 23 by Times Higher Education!

UB? No. 198! Aiyoh, you silly, silly girl. What do I do with you? You’re going to be the death of me.”

Why, indeed?

I spent four years at a reputable secondary school in Singapore. After graduating, I spent another two years at its affiliated junior college.

Getting into such an institution was the definition of success in Singa-

pore. It meant getting into a prestigious university, which in turn promises a respected career like law or medicine. So for a good six years, I was the definition of success.

But life doesn’t always work like a pipeline. Sometimes results fall short of expectations. What do students do then? What did I do then?

I stopped trying.

Shortly after beginning the ALevel curriculum in junior college, I realized I had trouble keeping up with the massive workload. There was immense pressure to do well in everything – daily assignments, monthly tests, projects, extracurricular activities, community service, even SATs. I was overwhelmed by all these responsibilities.

I once proudly put on my uniform (despite incessant complains about its unflattering cut and drab color), because it was a symbol of my triumph in the meritocratic system. I’ve outcompeted so many others to be a lucky handful deemed capable, intelligent, enviable. I thought it would always continue to be so.

In actuality, I was struggling to catch up with my peers. So I became lazy. I started procrastinating. I avoided challenging subjects.

I thought, even if I fail, at least I’d have the excuse of not trying hard enough. But underneath the exhausting cover-up, I knew I was just trying to maintain some semblance of a bright student from an elite school, at the expense of my

education.

I still proudly put on my uniform because it had been such an essential part of my identity over the years. But it had also become a dreadful reminder of how disillusioned I’d become with the harsh reality of meritocracy, with the elitist take on education and with myself.

Coming to UB instead of staying in Singapore was essentially a cop out. I could start with a clean slate here. There were no “Ah … that school” looks or unspoken questions like “Why did she choose to study this? How many A’s did she get” as I introduced myself in class. But it was also scary. I could no longer rely on my alma mater to identify myself. I had to prove myself from square one.

The long months I spent with my family in the middle of “nowheresville” were months spent licking my wounds. By the time I came to UB, I was desperate to stop feeling sorry for myself. So I started setting small goals: to speak up in lab even though I’m extremely shy; to take a religion class to expand my worldview; to join The Spectrum and confront my fears of talking to strangers; to sign up to be a teaching assistant. It was extremely gratifying to check items off the bucket list. Doing things I’ve never done before rebuilt my confidence and motivation.

In addition, through all these unexpected endeavors, the most important lesson I learned is to keep

trying. I used to think trying means I’m setting myself up for disappointment. Disappointment, however, turned out to be so much better than the complete hopelessness not trying inevitably brings.

Now, even when I get disappointed, I push on. Who knows when I’ll eventually succeed?

I started writing this column thinking it would be about my freshman experience. But this isn’t about my freshman experience. It is about my life. I think what I went through reflects that of many others: meeting social expectations, forging a self-identity, seeking approval from others and losing perspective while trying to attain entrenched conceptions of success and happiness. Your uniform could be anything – ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, interests.

Who I am now is a culmination of all the unforgettable experiences that made up the first two decades of my life. As such, despite shedding the uniform that embodied all the tears, laughter and battles of my adolescent years, what I went through then will always be an integral part of me. It has been a bittersweet but empowering journey. And I know, as I head to class these days, I’m moving toward a better me.

Email: tong.meng@ubspectrum.com

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Diggin’ the scene An introduction to art in Buffalo Whether you’re a new student at UB or someone who has been around the area for a while, Buffalo’s art scene is worth getting to know.

Buffalo is rich with culture and entertainment, and its art centers and galleries stand at the pinnacle of its attractions.

From the easy accessibility of small galleries that students and local artists are heavily involved with, to the astounding collections of internationally recognized museums, Buffalo has something for everyone.

For a new student at UB, an introduction to the arts in Buffalo can start at one of the university’s smaller galleries or main attractions on a trip to Elmwood Ave., where worldrenowned galleries are waiting to be explored. For anyone looking to experience art in the city, here’s a quick run-down on just a few important places to visit: UB Art Galleries: UB Art Gallery Where: Center For the Arts, UB North Campus, Amherst, NY Hours: Tues. - Fri. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sat. 1 p.m. - 5p.m., closed for summer recess Student rate: Free and open to the public UB Anderson Gallery Where: 1 Martha Jackson Place, Buffalo, NY Hours: Wed. - Sat. 11a.m. - 5p.m., Sat. 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Student rate: Free and open to the public The UB Art Galleries are comprised of two galleries that contribute to the UB community and Buffalo’s art scene in their own ways.

The UB Art Gallery is located within the Center For the Arts on North Campus, while the UB Anderson Gallery is nestled just outside of South Campus.

The UB Art Gallery is devoted to temporary exhibitions of contemporary art from local, national and international artists. Sandra Firmin has been the curator for the UB Art Galleries for 10 years and is proud that the gallery at the CFA focuses on exhibiting work from both emerging and well-known artists while emphasizing diversity on many levels.

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MAX CRINNIN Senior Arts Burchfield Penney Art Center Where: 1300 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, NY Hours: Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat. 10a.m.

- 5p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sun. 1 p.m. - 5p.m.

Student Rate: $5

Aline Kobayashi, The Spectrum

Buffalo’s art scene is world-renowned. Getting involved as an artist or a visitor is easy with spectacular galleries located right on UB’s main campuses and in the heart of the city, such as Burchfield Penney Art Center (above).

“I always try to have a strong geographic spread as well as a spread of age ranges,” Firmin said about selecting artists to display their work in the gallery. “I’m very conscious of ethnicity, race, gender and all those things when I’m organizing exhibitions.”

The emphasis on diversity is also part of the work that is being created at UB. Firmin and UB professors work to get various departments to collaborate for student exhibitions.

The Second Floor Gallery at the UB Art Gallery exclusively displays student work that often consists of collaborative projects from multiple departments.

The majority of student research and learning for art classes is conducted at the UB Anderson Gallery. The UB Anderson Gallery is distinguished by its strong collection of post-World War II art. David K. Anderson, the collector and gallery owner, donated the building and much of the current collection to the university in 2000. Classes are taught at the gallery in the spring and fall, and the university’s permanent collection is displayed here for the public year round.

Firmin encourages any students interested in getting involved with art at UB to come to an opening or a lecture, where the environment is very welcoming. Buffalo’s famous Paula’s Donuts are often served and questions about the collection and exhibitions are encouraged.

“The art that we’re showing is made by contemporary artists – they’re young,” Firmin said.

“They’re dealing with issues that students coming in now will be familiar with. The artists are their peers.”

Currently, the UB Art Gallery is closed for summer recess. The UB Anderson Gallery is displaying a strong representation of work from Grace Hartigan and Joan Mitchell, both influential artists in rethinking gender roles post-World War II, through August 4.

Looking ahead, the UB Art Gallery will serve as the home base for My Future Ex, an exhibition that will feature installation art from various local, national and international artists with work that will pop up all over the city for brief periods of time.

Albright-Knox Art Gallery Where: 1285 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, NY Hours: Tues. – Sun., 10a.m.-5p.m.

Student Rate: $8 The Albright-Knox Art Gallery has been an important Buffalo landmark for over 150 years, and today it stands proudly alongside some of the most visited and well-respected galleries in the world.

The gallery’s collection consists of modern and contemporary art that dates as far back as the mid1860s, with work from legendary names like Picasso, Pollock, van Gogh, Warhol and many others on display year-round.

Visiting the Albright-Knox is like going back in time to some of art’s golden ages, while also experiencing new and exciting work that is ahead of its time. There are many ways to experience the Albright-Knox, and endless reasons to keep coming back for more.

“If you can come with a friend, that is a certain kind of experience where you can discuss and debate what you are seeing—it’s a relationship to the wider world and everything in between,” said Maria Morreale, Head of Marketing, Corporate and Public Relations for the Albright-Knox. “Alone is another way to experience everything, where you can just “be” with a work of art. For beginners, a tour is definitely recommended, and there is a tour every day.”

The Albright-Knox has many events and workshops designed for members of the Buffalo community and visitors of all ages. “M&T First Fridays” allow free admission to all visitors on every first Friday of the month. Students can get a free annual membership to the gallery for $25, which allows free and unlimited admission for the year. Other events include creative programs for youth groups throughout Western New York and special viewings and tours for members.

“I think the Albright-Knox Art Gallery is a point of civic pride for the city, and the Elmwood area,” Morreale said. “It is our museum.

Ours. Though it has a worldwide reputation for excellence, it is ultimately ours.”

On May 31, the Albright-Knox opened Sweet Dreams, Baby! Life of Pop, London to Warhol, which Morreale described as a must-see for anyone interested in commercialism, contemporary culture and the roots of modern society.

Right across from the AlbrightKnox stands a lesser-known gallery that still packs a big punch. The Burchfield Penney Art Center is a contemporary gallery with a modern look, inside and out. The building is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified (the first museum of its kind in New York State) and houses an impressive, diverse collection of art from Western New York that draws visitors from all over.

The Burchfield Penney houses the world’s largest collection of work by Charles E. Burchfield, after whom the center is partially named. In addition, the museum displays work of many artists featured in rotations with more than 20 exhibitions a year.

The work from Burchfield (mostly watercolor paintings) is highlighted by his love of nature, and the museum recently displayed a collection of his writings.

Currently on display, until June 16, is a photo exhibition Being There from a collection of work by UB professor Bruce Jackson.

The Burchfield Penney strives to not only feature work from Western New York artists, but also try to involve community members. Like the Albright-Knox, the museum is free and open to the public for one day of the month as part of “M&T Second Fridays.”

“We thrive because of our community, including artists, volunteers and partners,” said Alana Ryder, curator for public and academic programs at the Burchfield Penney.

This year, she has worked closely with many local groups like LehrerDance, Babel, Western New York Book Arts Center, GO Bike Buffalo, Autism Services, Ad Club of Buffalo, Girl Scouts of WNY, Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium and Pop-Up Park Buffalo to emphasize community involvement at the center.

This summer, visitors can look forward to an exhibition of Marilyn Monroe photographs taken by Douglas Kirkland, which will open July 12, and a four-day festival at the center that begins Aug. 8.

Email: arts@ubspectrum.com

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Welcome to the family The local hardcore-music scene in Buffalo stays afloat amongst the waves FELICIA HUNT

Asst. Arts Editor

Sheets of loose-leaf paper smudged with eraser marks occupy part of the wall in the cramped basement. A full drum kit, a few guitars and stacks of amps enclose the already small room even more.

“All right guys, let’s practice the new one we wrote,” said Ryan Ridley, guitarist of local Buffalo hardcore band A Breath Alive, as drummer Rob Campbell tapped absentmindedly on his cymbals.

The Buffalo arts scene is a consistent attraction for many. The music scene in The Queen City has a rich history, with many locals signed to major record labels such as rock act The Goo Goo Dolls and metal band Every Time I Die. In the last few years, Spring Fest and Fall Fest are primarily centered on rap/R&B and techno acts. What some incoming students don’t know is that there is a prevalent music scene in Buffalo outside of the bubble that is UB. There are indie bands like Sweet Apollo, pop-punk bands like Breckenwood, and hardcore-metal bands that contribute to Buffalo’s diversity.

But keeping this music scene alive and thriving is currently a problem, according to local show promoter Nick Sallee.

“There are times in this scene when everything goes into negative territory with trash talking other bands, venues closing and some shows just not making enough profit,” Sallee said. “Buffalo’s music scene is constantly fluctuating, but it can be so much stronger with more support.”

Sallee’s biggest competitor is After Dark Entertainment, one of the largest and most well-known promotion companies in Western New York. After Dark has booked countless musicians ranging from heavy-metal band After The Burial, to punk band All Time Low and everything in between. While Sallee is fairly new to the music scene, his passion for the scene and the people in it are strong.

Some shows don’t pull in the attendance that he needs to make a profit, which can have a negative effect on the bands as well as Sallee. Bands won’t make a second trip to Buffalo if they aren’t pulling in enough money from ticket or merchandise sales.

“If money wasn’t such a huge factor, I’d pick a show of 50 people who each stayed from the first band to the last and bought merchandise over 150 people who left three bands in with no merch,” Sallee said. “The heart of the crowd outweighs the number.”

Regardless of a crowd’s passion, attendance is the most important aspect of a show. For local bands, the more people that show up, the more fans they will have. For venues, the more people that attend a show, the more money they will make.

This past year, Mohawk Place and Club Infinity closed. Losing these venues lowered the morale of the scene. Xtreme Wheels is also no longer partaking in their partnership with After Dark. After the loss of these venues, The Waiting Room emerged on Delaware Avenue in downtown Buffalo in April.

“I think that the scene is making positive strides lately with the new venue and bands like My City, My Secret getting national attention,” said Rick Kielma, guitarist for The Creator, The Architect. “My City and Dennis Ferry from After Dark are helping the other locals form connections with touring bands and more fans.”

As a frequent attendee of local shows, it’s likely that faces will become more familiar with each visit to Broadway Joes or The Waiting Room. These people become close to one another and start interacting outside

Aline Kobayashi, The Spectrum

Broadway Joe’s, located on Main Street near UB’s South Campus, is a lasting member of the Buffalo hardcore music scene family, hosting shows for local and visiting bands.

Aline Kobayashi, The Spectrum

The Waiting Room, located on Delaware Avenue in Buffalo, has emerged as a new venue and saving grace for a hardcore-music scene in Buffalo that has struggled to stay alive with the closing of several venues.

of shows. It’s common to hear people speak of the Buffalo music scene as a family. James “Peach” Kociencki, bassist from The Creator, The Architect, is currently serving in the military and has been able to reflect on the music scene with the time away.

“There are certain bands and groups of people that make others feel welcome and want to attend shows, and then there’s some people who speak negatively about certain bands or people because they aren’t heavy enough for them,” Kociencki said in an email. “Family is welcoming no matter what, and right now, the scene is a little divided.”

My City, My Secret, a local band that has worked with Caleb Shomo of Beartooth and Attack Attack! and is managed by Shawn Spann of I, The Breather, is one of the bands consistently mentioned. They landed a feature in “The Bands You Need To Know” section in Alternative Press magazine this month and have received both positive and negative responses from people in the music scene. Regardless of how they’re received, My City, My Secret continues their positive

outlook on their music and in interactions with their fans.

“Our main goal is giving back to the city that built us,” said bassist Eddie Fibich.

“We’ve been fighting since day one to get the scene back on the map and we take the time to befriend other locals. Buffalo has a ton of untapped talent and we want to help in any way we can to restore the scene to its former glory.”

Any family has times of falling out and disagreement, and the music scene family is no different. Fights break out in mosh pits, and Facebook disagreements litter newsfeeds, but these people aren’t disbanding from the family; some band members prefer having constructive criticism while others believe there is a line that shouldn’t be crossed.

“Everyone has different tastes and that’s fine, but if someone is hindering the scene with negativity, they need to get the hell out,” Kociencki said. “Not everyone likes the same music but bashing certain genres is childish.”

Ridley embraces any and all of the hate his band receives. At practice, he asks everyone

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there if they’ve heard anything negative so that they can prove those people wrong while improving their sound and stage presence.

“When show goers and other local bands doubt us, it gives us motivation to prove them wrong,” Ridley said. “Every band wants to prove themselves as worthy to the music scene and when people start telling you, ‘wow, you guys killed it tonight,’ that’s the best feeling.”

A Breath Alive has the same outlook on hate as My City, My Secret. Hate creates buzz that gets a band recognized. AJ Fibich, guitarist of the band, helps other bands with song writing and recording. He, like his brother, believes in giving back to Buffalo and supports any band that he can.

With the different genres and subgenres in Buffalo, competition becomes fierce. For After Dark shows, there are normally one to three slots for local bands on national tours.

The bands let the company know they’re interested in playing and try to keep the lines of communication honest and open with After Dark. There is a large group of hardcore/ metalcore tours that stop in Buffalo, and a handful of locals strive to fill those opening slots. Deathcore locals A Future Corrupt take a slot when heavier acts come to Buffalo.

“As one of the few deathcore bands in Buffalo, it takes a lot of hard work to gain respect,” said vocalist Ethan Fingold. “You aren’t just king of the scene because you’re playing heavier music. I put my heart into A Future Corrupt and always ask for advice to improve our sound and appeal.”

Music producer Nick Borgosz, owner of World of Noise recording studio in Cheektowaga, relies on local musicians to keep his business successful. Without local bands, there is no need for a recording studio. He has seen egos flare and one-track minds within many of the bands and amongst show goers. These mindsets deter people from joining the scene, he said.

“I’d like to see new people entering the scene with an open mind and to truly enjoy what is happening in front of them on that stage,” Borgosz said. “Most of the bands in this scene are giving their all to try to make it big and deserve more appreciation.”

Local band members, for the most part, enjoy meeting new people and fans. The music scene is a huge part of their lives and adding people to the dysfunctional family keeps the scene alive and interesting. Any support is crucial to all aspects of music in Buffalo.

Without people, there is no scene. Tony Avino, vocalist of The Creator, The Architect, reaches out to people on social media and at shows. He can be seen at the merchandise tables one minute promoting a new shirt design and hugging strangers the next.

“As a show goer, it’s important to try new things and be aware of all that Buffalo has to offer musically,” Avino said. “Give that hardcore or indie band a chance for the $10-14 it costs to get into a show and you’ll find music and friendship.”

A quick metro ride downtown opens a whole new world of arts and music.

“An open mind is crucial to the scene, both with experimenting with your own music as a band and being open to different genres and people,” Sallee said. “Don’t allow others’ opinions make you hate something without experiencing it for yourself.”

Email: arts@ubspectrum.com

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A shot to the heart

Pop-punk band Man Overboard releases new album FELICIA HUNT

Asst. Arts Editor

Artist: Man Overboard Album: Heart Attack Release Date: May 28 Label: Rise Records Grade: C During the late ’90s and into the early 2000s, pop-punk bands like Taking Back Sunday and Blink-182 ruled the airwaves.

Their signature sound influenced many of today’s current bands, but none have really embodied the true pop-punk feel of their predecessors.

The Jersey boys of Man Overboard challenge the veterans of pop punk with their newest album Heart Attack.

The album was unexpectedly leaked by Spotify, due to an error, two weeks before the scheduled release date. Instead of pulling the album, Man Overboard put it on Bandcamp to stream as a present to their fans.

As one of the more diverse bands on the Rise Records roster, Man Overboard claims it “defends pop punk,” and its iconic logo of a heart with intersecting rifles proves the band is not go-

ing down without a fight. Heart Attack definitely has a fighting chance.

While most of the melodies sound oddly familiar, Man Overboard’s fan base keeps coming back for the angst-ridden lyrics the band posts on its Facebook every night.

On “Hoodie Song,” the band approaches post-hardcore territory with borderline screams.

This slight change of pace ends quickly as the guitar chords sound recycled once again. The

lyrics contain a story about love/ hate relationships that Man Overboard’s fans feed off of.

“Shut your pretty mouth and let’s just go away,” vocalists Zac Eisenstein and Nik Bruzzese croon.

The emotional lyrics are a common theme throughout the entire album. The thumping bass also weaves in between the focused and honest lyricism that the band is praised for. “Open Season” is a track filled with lust for a girl that the vocalists can never have.

It becomes creepy, as daydreams about driving to this girl’s house (whom the singers supposedly never met) are introduced. Perhaps their followers have thought about doing the same.

“Boy Without Batteries” showcases the tongue-in-cheek humor that Blink-182 is known for. The track discusses finding artifacts of a past lover and not having the heart to toss it. Man Overboard frequently overuses the theme heartbreak. The name of the track also suggests an inap-

propriate attitude toward the exlover.

The remainder of Heart Attack keeps on the path of a broken record. While both Eisenstein and Bruzzese’s vocals are nicely balanced, “Wide Awake” closes the album with their signature contrasting voices. The slow-paced track offers a different side to the defenders of pop punk along with communal singing and mellow instrumentals in the chorus.

It’s easily the most memorable song off Heart Attack.

Overall, the lack of a musical and lyrical breakthrough for Man Overboard hinders Heart Attack.

The band has found success in keeping their sound the same and isn’t willing to leave its comfort zone yet. This summer, the band will hit Warped Tour, which will only expand its reach to forlorn teenagers and make it a household name.

At least pop punk isn’t dead yet.

Email: arts@ubspectrum.com

Courtesy of Rise Records

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PIANO MAN

Through Kickstarter, UB alum sets up pianos around Buffalo BRIAN KESCHINGER

Creative Director

When 74-year-old Daniel Kulinksi saw Mark Weber’s Kickstarter campaign on the local news, he knew exactly what to do with his parents’ old 1898 Kurtzmann Piano: donate it to the project to be painted and shared with thousands.

The piano, which was built on Niagara Street in Buffalo over 100 years ago, is just one of seven being scattered around Buffalo; five have already been placed and are open to the public to play. Weber’s Kickstarter-funded project exceeded its $4,000 goal on June 6.

Weber, ’97, graduated from UB with degrees in communication and psychology. To him, the “Do Not Touch” signs that typically accompany pianos are unsettling. That’s why he started his campaign to spread music all over the city.

“How can a young person ever enjoy the piano sound if they’re told, ‘Don’t touch that?’” Weber said. “So I thought: What if I put some pianos around town, outside, painted them colorfully and then said, ‘Anyone and everyone can use them whether they’re poor or rich, whether they’re educated or not?’”

The idea, according to Weber, is to make music accessible to everyone.

“They don’t have to be a concert piano player,” he added.

Ninety-seven people backed the Kickstarter project. Steve Kiernan II of Algonquin Studios, a local media firm, provided a quarter of the overall donations. Weber reached out to Kiernan and asked why he gave $1,000 to the project. Kiernan responded with a letter that ended with: “To put it plainly – you give a damn and I like that!”

This wasn’t the only support Weber received that left him floored. Robby Takac of the locally formed band Goo Goo Dolls promoted the project with a Facebook post that read “Pianos … like all over the place … help this dude out if you get a sec…” with a link to the Kickstarter page attached.

One of the pianos sits across from the mansion in Delaware Park; another faces the water at the boardwalk at Canalside. Larkin Square has one under a pavilion; another is tucked in the new pocket park between the Williamsville Library and Village Hall and the last is outside of Westside Stories Used Books on Grant Street.

For Weber, the project is about more than just pianos. It’s about helping revive Buffalo and “putting some joy” back into the community.

“Old pianos are often forgotten and they’re put into a corner and gather dust, much like Buffalo has been,” Weber explained.

When the pianos are given some “love and care” and are presented in a new way, the public views them differently, according to Weber.

“That’s what I’m doing with these pianos and that’s what Buffalo as a city is doing,” he said. “They’re taking stuff that’s old, redoing it and making it fresh, and people are saying: ‘You know what? It’s better than I thought.’”

The recently revived Larkin Square is the temporary home for the 1898 Kurtzmann piano Kulinski donated. It sits just a few blocks away from where his parents grew up.

On June 26, Larkin Square hosted the Live at Larkin music series. At the event, the ‘Pianos in Public’ project was praised and celebrated with performances by Grammy-winner George Caldwell and Boyd Lee Dunlop, who is in the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame.

“This particular night of Live at Larkin, we shined the spotlight on two of the best piano players in Buffalo and what better occasion to welcome this new piano to Larkin Square than the night that they’re in the spotlight?” said Seamus Gallivan, who is in charge of the musical performances at Larkin Square.

Weber said he feels like he’s “the boss of a large corporation even though [I’m] not,” he jokes. He had about 40 people help him with the project.

Jerry Lange, an ’05 UB studio in art graduate, was the artist for the Larkin Square piano. He patterned keys of the 1898 Kurtz-

Brian Keschinger, The Spectrum

Mark Weber (left) and Jerry Lange stand next to the Kurtzmann piano that was originally built on Niagara Street in Buffalo in 1898.

The piano now temporarily sits in Larkin Square for the public to enjoy until September.

mann with various colors of paint so even a piano novice can play pleasant-sounding tunes by pressing the same-color keys consecutively.

“This way people can just have fun … really, music and art is just about expressing yourself,” Lange said. “Music, art, pianos, etc. brings people together and connects people and has the power to change the world.”

Each individual piano has its own history and has been painted with its own “quasitheme,” Weber said.

Weber hopes many will create new memories on the pianos similar to his own memories of growing up with a baby grand piano.

The pianos will be free to play in the public of Buffalo until September. When asked about the fate of the pianos come September and if they will be out again next summer to enjoy, Weber laughed and said, “The book is not fully written on that yet.”

Email: brian.keschinger@ubpsectrum.com

Brian Keschinger, The Spectrum

Jerry Lange color coordinates keys musically to help people have fun, even if they don't know how to play the piano.

“What if I put some pianos around town, outside, painted them colorfully and then said, ‘Anyone and everyone can use them whether they’re poor or rich, whether they’re educated or not?’”

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Playing in the Park Shakespeare in Delaware Park is a Buffalo must-see KIERA MEDVED

Asst. Arts Editor

It’s a Buffalo summer night’s dream: Shakespeare in Delaware Park is back.

From June 20 to July 14, Shakespeare in the Park will be performing the famous tragedy Hamlet: a story about a young prince’s plot to exact revenge on his uncle, King Claudius. The play explores personal struggles with insanity, sexuality and morality.

From July 25 to Aug. 18, Shakespeare in the Park will be performing the dark comedy Measure for Measure: a play that deals with secret identities, manipulation and a depiction of Christianity in Shakespeare’s time.

Since 1976, the Shakespeare in the Park professional theater company has been performing William Shakespeare’s plays every summer to a sea of theater patrons.

Saul Elkin, a former UB theater professor, had the idea to create a Buffalo-based version of the New York Shakespeare Festival in New York City.

After stage production was finished at UB its first year, the stage was taken apart and reconstructed in Delaware Park; the location is now fondly known as “Shakespeare Hill.”

Each year, thousands of theater and literature lovers gather on Shakespeare Hill on blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy a night of storytelling, music and laughter.

Brittany Patterson, 25, has been going to Shakespeare in the Park every summer for 15 years. For Patterson, the event is an opportunity to spend time with her family and enjoy performances influenced by one of the world’s most famous playwrights.

“I love going and seeing how they interpret different Shakespeare plays,” Patterson said. “It’s just something we all love to do to-

Courtesy of Shakespeare in Delaware Park

Shakespeare in Delaware Park is one of Buffalo’s most beloved summer traditions. This season, visitors from all over will get to enjoy the tragedy of Hamlet and the dark comedy of Measure for Measure.

gether as a family since we all love Shakespeare.”

Shakespeare in the Park is now the second-largest free outdoor Shakespeare festival in the United States and has tens of thousands of attendees every summer.

The Shakespeare in the Park company performs two plays a summer. Last summer’s performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream captured audiences with its cast of highly skilled actors and a talented group of designers and stage hands.

Genevieve Lerner, 23, a UB theater department alumna, performed in last year’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream as Mustardseed and as a featured dancer.

“My character was one that often interacted with the audience – making eye contact with people, causing little children to laugh and getting thousands of people excited about the story,” Lerner said.

“That was truly special.”

Lerner performed with her fellow cast members for six shows a week, four weeks in a row, through unpredictable weather conditions.

Rain or shine, the Shakespeare in the Park company puts on performances each and every night.

“I think people love Shakespeare [in the Park] because it is such a communal experience,” Lerner said. “You can have a picnic, drink some wine, enjoy the beautiful weather and hang out with your

friends and family for the evening for free.”

The event is for people of any age group. It’s an opportunity to immerse oneself in the gorgeous Delaware Park atmosphere while endorsing the theater family that Buffalo is famous for.

Shakespeare in the Park has transformed over the years, not only in the number of attendees, but the size of the stage as well.

What was once a single-platform stage with three standing microphones has flourished into an incredible-sized stage with updated lighting and sound equipment from donations alone.

In 1991, Shakespeare in the Park became an independent non-profit

$719 $800

organization. Funding for the performances comes strictly from donations made primarily by audience members and the City of Buffalo.

From only working with a donation-based budget, the company surprises audiences with its specifically designed multi-platform sets and intricately created costume pieces.

For those who want to spend a night surrounded by fellow theater lovers but don’t want to be stuffed into a small, dark theater, or anyone who wants to find something free to do in Buffalo, Shakespeare in the Park is an opportunity like no other.

Email: arts@ubspecrum.com

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Courtesy of Warner Brothers

THE UNQUIET DARKNESS Luhrmann’s hyperbolic version of ‘Gatsby’

ERIC CORTELLESSA Editorial Editor Film: The Great Gatsby Release Date: May 10 Studio: Warner Brothers Grade: C When you see Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby, you realize what a misapprehension it was that such familiar material was befitting for this modernized retelling.

Not because the film is a total disaster or that the crew of filmmakers were completely misguided, but that its source – so idiosyncratic in its original form – renders any attempt to present the story through a different medium incapable of not getting somehow lost in translation.

It took only a little over a year for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel to be adapted for the screen following its publication in April 1925. That film, directed by Herbert Brenon, is all but lost (all that remains now is a trailer held at the National Archives). In 1949, Elliot Nugent brought the story to the screen again (partly to promote the career of Alan Ladd), and in 1974, Jack Clayton delivered the most prominent version to date, starring Robert Redford with a screenplay from Francis Ford Coppola. Two more versions would follow – a television movie and a hip-hop adaptation loosely based off the novel – and it pretty much goes without saying that none of these adaptations have delivered us a satisfactory film version of Gatsby.

When Luhrmann (Australia) became the sixth director to throw his hat in the ring – with Leonardo DiCaprio (Django Unchained) in the eponymous role as Jay Gatsby – he embroiled himself in a unique tradition of limp attempts to transmit this particular literary narrative into cinematic form.

Fitzgerald exercises the technique of using a dramatized narrator, Nick Carraway, looking back on something that has happened in the past.

It is the way he formulates his summer spent on Long Island in 1922 – as an intricately woven and patterned account of

a specific period in time – that sets up the framework for providing the text its substance and complexity; the plot, however, is simple.

The obstacle for filmmakers is to find a way to convey Carraway’s narrative thread through film. His role in the plot is primarily a witness.

There is never much he is doing physically but constantly observing (aside from having a few conversations) – so, as Bruce Jackson has pointed out, the invariable struggle has been to have his personal voice drive the narrative without his visual role in the film being superfluous.

What Luhrmann moderately recognizes but ultimately fails to fulfill is the central role Carraway’s recollection plays in the story. He and his screenwriter, Craig Pearce (Charlie St. Cloud), begin the film with Carraway (Tobey Maguire, The Details) being treated for posttraumatic stress symptoms at an eerie sanitarium back in the Midwest following his time spent in West Egg. It is there that he composes the text of The Great Gatsby. As the film progresses, Carraway recounts the summer. Occasionally, lines from the book appear on the bottom of the screen as his voice-over narration intermittently guides the rest of the film.

Maguire plays Carraway as a naïve country boy, restrained and mantled by a veil of ignorance, never quite giving us a glimpse of the snob he starts out as – the wide-eyed character he plays would never have the juice to talk down at Yale or World War I. And when he tells us “I am one of the few honest people that I have ever known,” we could actually believe it.

Luhrmann places Maguire in the movie as more of a device than a character; he is a sycophant that provides the lens for looking at Gatsby. Neglecting to portray Carraway as a self-absorbed narcissist diminishes the potential for demonstrating his development – which never finds a real role in this version – and discards the fabric of Fitzgerald’s text.

All the major encounters Nick has following Gatsby’s death (Mr. Gatz, Jordan Baker, Tom Buchannan) are omitted – so it wouldn’t matter if it never builds up to him saying he is now “five years too old to lie to himself and call it honor.” The film does not concern itself with the novel’s true subject.

While a film owes no fidelity to its original source material, Luhrmann and Pearce run in circles by deliberately seeking to supply a new narrative mode to deal with Carraway, only to wind up retaining the convention of keeping Gatsby as the central figure without adequately maintaining the parallel register demonstrating how he influences Carraway. And by doing so, we lose the depth of Gatsby’s character, too.

This version gives us a Carraway that changes from his experience – he becomes washed up, depleted, jaded – but without any of the revelations that accompany his transition back to the Midwest. Fitzgerald unmistakably sets the story during the summer (and Luhrmann retains that), yet we get no regenerative image of growth – but a hyperbolic landscape of failed dreams.

Leonardo DiCaprio becomes the film’s saving grace as Jay Gatsby. He provides the strongest performance, and his presence alone vitalizes the screen in key moments. At times, he can be a master of nuance, able to impart a suppressed desperation appropriate to the mind of his character.

Carey Mulligan (Shame) doesn’t bring so much of a flirtatious sparkle as she does a despondent introversion to the foolhardy Daisy Fay Buchanan; and Joel Edgerton (Zero Dark Thirty) turns out to be one of the more acute casting decisions as her husband, Tom – the virile libertine. In the novel, he’s introduced wearing a straw hat, and Edgerton sustains the performance skillfully of someone lacking a brain.

Luhrmann keeps a kinetic energy throughout the

film and his visual style reflects concern for his portrait of a period of opulence and overindulgence, inhabited by those indifferent to human values; Gatsby’s mansion can be filled with people while simultaneously seeming abandoned and desolate.

Carraway’s experience at his decadent parties is a shock to his system for all the wrong reasons – not because his interactions with the guests force him to consider the world outside the terms of his own “provincial inexperience,” but because he’s never before seen anything so grand.

“It’s like an amusement park,” he says.

This depiction becomes so embellished that the layers remove us more from the characters than really giving us a chance to engage with them; we are always kept at an emotional distance as each scene is overloaded with phantasmagorical flare.

To Luhrmann’s credit, however, his interpretation does manage to succeed in transferring some of the novel’s thematic core – though it’s all about Gatsby.

When a number of people question the possibility that Gatsby may have killed a man, we’re cued to suspect that maybe he killed the man he used to be in order to become who he thought Daisy would have wanted.

The movie elaborately depicts the garish life Gatsby has attained for himself, and though his quest consists of making money and achieving status, we recognize that those aren’t the things he really wants; he wants those things to have as instruments to get what he really wants – to achieve the perfect love with Daisy.

Lurhman and DiCaprio work to depict Gatsby as a man caught up in his own illusion of self-creation. In the process, he becomes “booked to make a mistake” as he attempts to recapture an unrecoverable past. His sense of purpose is squandered by his desire to regain what he once had and to reaffirm the idea he has of himself.

Luhrmann’s version is a wistful tragedy of a dreamer whose yearning to dictate the terms of his life is impeded by the licentiousness and materialism of a world in which he’s climbed the highest of mountains to be apart of – and his nobility is conflicted by his disillusionment. As he and Daisy are dancing, she asks him, “Was all this made entirely from your own imagination?” The irony of that question (which is not in the novel) is that she has been made from his imagination, too.

She is the final ingredient in the “grand vision he had for his life,” as Carraway puts it – represented by the green light at the end of her pier. The green light appears interminably throughout the film and Luhrmann gets caught in this aesthetic misconception that such repetitiousness will emphasize its profundity.

Everything in this film gets overstated.

Just as he did with Romeo and Juliet, Luhrmann takes enduring ideas from an earlier period and expresses them in modern rhythms. The soundtrack includes Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Andre 3000 and Lana Del Ray – which seems to work more toward attracting a younger audience than to establish a sense of time and place.

With emphatic stylization and rushed editing techniques that result in a loss of precision, this film gives us an incomplete Gatsby. There are moments that are genuinely arresting, but as a narrative the film becomes cluttered in trying to weave together too many discordant elements.

The only way it all ties together is through Carraway’s formulation as he continuously shapes and reshapes the story as he’s telling it – and Luhrmann’s appended reshaping is more of a detraction than it is further penetration.

It screams at you to consider some “modern relevance” to Gatsby’s dream, and it makes you think more that maybe the dream of making The Great Gatsby a great film was even more elusive.

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Don’t let the music die

Students find ways to continue their musical passions at UB rACHEL KRAMER

Asst. Arts Editor

Kevin Beuler felt something was missing during his freshman year at UB. He had been a musician for 13 years and then, suddenly, he wasn’t.

Beuler is now a senior mathematics major with a minor in music, and he’s an active participant in the UB Concert Band.

There are over 300 students continuing their passion for music after high school at UB who aren’t music majors. They are a part of UB Symphony Orchestra (UBSO), UB Concert Band, UB Chorus, UB Choir and various other ensembles. All of these groups perform on campus and enable students in any major to pursue their musical hobby.

Beuler had been playing music since he started playing the piano in kindergarten. He then picked up the trumpet when he was in fourth grade and music became an integral part of his daily life. He learned how to play the violin his sophomore year of high school and taught himself the guitar.

Beuler did not want to stop playing music just because his academic career was focused on getting into medical school. But as a freshman, Beuler didn’t know his options. He knew something was missing in his life.

It felt strange to take a year off from music after constantly playing for so many years. He didn’t know what to do because he thought getting involved in music would cause his grades to slip. Daniel Bassin, the music director of UBSO, said this is a fear many incoming freshmen share.

“While juggling a busy schedule of required courses, electives, extracurricular activities and the major life change that is the transition to college, it can be easy to look at various activities we were able to keep up before college as expendable, and to weigh performing music in an ensemble as a time commitment that will be hard to find time for,” Bassin said.

Courtesy of UB Symphony

The UB Symphony Orchestra (UBSO) is just one of the many ensembles on campus that both music and non-music majors join at UB to continue pursuing musical passions after high school.

He said, however, in his experience, “The students who make the time in their weeks to continue playing their instruments find the engaging, collaborative act of creating music an important compliment to their course of study.”

Bassin suggests students get involved as soon as possible, so playing music feels effortless, and not like an extra burden, in their schedules.

The music department offers many options for students with this fear of complete commitment to a major.

One popular option is picking up music as a minor, which is 28 credits and can be either performance or academic based. Performance requires participation in an ensemble and eight applied music credits, while academic requires more nonperformance based electives.

Beuler chose to add a performance minor his sophomore year because taking music lessons and performing was easier on his schedule than taking music classes. His instrument of choice was the trumpet, though he continues to play piano and guitar.

Beuler feels these classes offer “peace and solitude from the mo-

notony of [his] other classes.”

“I have a good share of math classes and science or medical classes, but with music in the mix it offers such a great variety,” he said. “So I’m never bored or feel like I am getting lost and just going through the motions. College can be very stressful and feel very overwhelming at times, and I think being involved in music helps lower the stress.”

Another perk of the music department are the ensembles, according to Beuler. Beuler is an active member in UB Concert Band.

He loves how rehearsals fit into his busy schedule with only two onehour meetings a week.

Jon Nelson, one of Beuler’s favorite professors runs UB Concert Band. Beuler feels he is gaining a technical-music education from Nelson, but according to Beuler, Nelson is exposing the band to a wide variety of music.

“We get through so many pieces of music, our programs sometimes include six, seven, even eight songs, and some of those songs include several movements,” Beuler said. “There are times where we think he is putting too many songs on the program for us to play, but

he always has great faith in us.”

At their last performance in the spring, the audience gave the concert band a standing ovation for the first time.

Nelson is proud to say his band is comprised of students with a variety of different career goals.

Eighty-five percent of the band is made of students with math, engineering or science majors, Nelson said. “[The band] is a nice challenge intellectually and it’s a creative release for those students who are in the lab or classroom all day,” Nelson said.

Students can also join UB Marching Band (Thunder of the East) or other ensembles to stay involved.

UBSO is comprised of approximately 65 members, and a majority are not music majors.

Bassin, the UBSO music director, loves the constant reward of challenging students to “push themselves creatively and technically, while also engaging them intellectually,” by choosing the right repertoire.

Recently, they have expanded their audience beyond the members of the UB community and into the greater Buffalo area, according to

Bassin.

“The members of the UBSO truly distinguished themselves this past year in the hard work they put into a tremendously diverse range of music, which spanned three centuries,” he said. “I feel extremely fortunate to get to work with them.”

Students must audition to become a part of any of on-campus music groups.

The faculty aims to make the auditions less competitive and more positive, according to Bassin and Nelson. They want to encourage students to keep music in their lives, whether it’s right out of high school or after a year or more of not practicing.

Auditions require prospective students to prepare a piece of music “that they love,” an excerpt from something the group will be playing the upcoming semester and some sight-reading.

“This gives me the best sense of all aspects of a student’s musical development,” Bassin said. “It also begins our work together as I use the excerpts as an opportunity for the students to engage with the musical concepts that will be central to the semester’s work.”

Any student who gets involved with a large ensemble can also be eligible for free private instrumental lessons with a faculty member.

Each departmental group performs two free recitals throughout the year. Nelson encourages his students to bring their friends and family to watch the concerts.

He feels it’s important to encourage the general public to get involved with music or art to “support a more cultural society.”

“It’s better for everybody because people who are interested [who do not become professionals] are the people who will support musical education when they grow up and when their kids are in schools,” Nelson said. “And they are the people who will attend the concerts.”

Email: arts@ubsectrum.com

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Three to get ready Successful senior trio – Mack, Oliver, Neutz – leaving their mark on UB’s football program JON GAGNON

PHOTOS BY NICK FISCHETTI

Senior Sports Editor

A handful of players on the football team are approaching unprecedented territory in their final season at Buffalo. With three seniors who will go down as some of the best in program history at their positions, the Bulls are more poised than ever to make a run at a Mid-American Conference Championship.

Expectations are high but fair.

Anything short of a MAC title and the bowl game that follows will be considered an unsuccessful season.

“It’s almost like it’s a sense of urgency,” said senior wide receiver Alex Neutz. “It’s a sense that this is a bowl game or bust kind of season … The only way to cap off my career is a MAC Championship and a bowl game. I think we’ve all set this in and it’s the only thing that’s going to satisfy us.”

Neutz needs just nine touchdowns this season to tie UB’s alltime record for career receiving touchdowns, after grabbing 11 touchdowns last season on his way to All-MAC second-team honors.

But even with all the accolades Neutz has achieved, he may be the least decorated of this year’s “senior trio.”

The other two members are running back Branden Oliver and linebacker Khalil Mack. Both will likely go down as the best players at their positions in program history, with Oliver on pace to end his campaign as Buffalo’s all-time leading rusher (626 yards shy of first place).

As for Mack, not only is he widely considered the best defensive player in the conference but also as one of the best linebackers in the entire country. It took head coach Jeff Quinn an extra recruiting trip last winter to convince Mack to return to UB for his senior season instead of bolting to the NFL.

KHALIL MACK Khalil Mack Mack has been hungry his whole career.

“Deep down, I knew I had a lot to prove,” Mack said. “I wanted to prove that I was as good as a Division I offer. No matter the success or accolades, I always knew I had something to prove. I couldn’t be satisfied. I stayed hungry.”

His appetite for engulfing offensive players in the backfield has earned him the chance to etch his name in the NCAA record books.

Mack enters the year just 19 tackles for loss shy of the NCAA career leader. Last season, he had 21.

A Bull at the top of a significant all-time NCAA record may be something substantial to UB fans and members of the community, but not to Mack.

“It wouldn’t mean too much,” Mack said. “I obviously would ap-

BRANDEN OLIVER

preciate being in the record books.

But it means more to me that my teammates and I go out every day and play for each other. I’m going out there and playing for my brothers and they’re playing for me.”

Mack’s 21 tackles for loss last season ranked fourth in the nation, and his four forced fumbles – a category in which he is already tied for first place in UB’s career record books – ranked eighth.

But stats and records were not why Mack decided to return to UB for his senior year – it was the MAC Championship. He’s proud to help lead the team on that quest. “[Being a senior] comes with responsibility and we have a standard to set every week and to live up to,” Mack said. “We have a responsibility to be leaders off the field and show guys the right way to do things. In order for me to say

this is a successful season, we have to go to the MAC Championship.”

Branden Oliver Two years ago, as a sophomore, Oliver rushed for 1,395 yards – a UB single-season record and a mark that ranked 14th in the nation. He continued that pace early last season but suffered a leg injury that limited him to playing in just seven games – though he still rushed for a team-high 821 yards.

“Coming from Miami, you learn how to work hard because as a little kid, there was always another guy who was working so hard, so it has never left me,” Oliver said.

Now at full health, Oliver needs only 626 yards to break Super Bowl champ James Starks’ all-time school career rushing record.

Like Mack, the records aren’t weighing too heavily on Oliver’s mind.

“I’m not too big on it,” Oliver said. “After my sophomore year, I stopped thinking about records and started thinking about wins. If I break the record, it’s cool, but we just want to win really.”

Oliver may not have as much NFL potential as Mack, but he currently ranks as the 16th best running back prospect, according to nfldraftscout.com – a number that very well could climb if Oliver has a performance similar to his sophomore season.

Alex Neutz Neutz played in high school just 20 minutes away at Grand Island.

“Coming out of high school, Western New York isn’t the most competitive brand of high school football,” Neutz said. “So I had a lot of doubts coming in. I didn’t know if I was going to be fast enough, strong enough, so I didn’t See Senior Trio on next page

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2012-13 Athletics Year in Review:

A COACHING CAROUSEL OWEN O’BRIEN Sports Editor

Describing Buffalo’s 2012-13 athletic season in one word is a daunting task. It’s much simpler to reflect on a key position throughout the Bulls’ major sports – head coaches.

The year included a questionable head coach extension and a firing three others, a successful rookie campaign and a Mid-American Conference Coach of the Year.

A new contract for head football coach Jeff Quinn was a decision some in the community questioned. Then, four months later, first-year athletic director Danny White fired 14-year head basketball coach Reggie Witherspoon, a decision that piled on to the question marks surrounding the new young AD. White also fired wrestling coach Jim Beichner and softball coach Jen Teague.

Despite disappointments in football and men’s basketball, other sports shined. Women’s basketball head coach Felisha Legette-Jack and baseball coach Ron Torgalski proved to lead teams worthy of attention.

Legette-Jack took the reins of a struggling team and helped it advance to the quarterfinals of the MAC Tournament in her first season. Torgalski’s Bulls recorded their most wins in school history (33) as he earned MAC Coach of the Year.

Here’s a rundown of four of the most noteworthy UB teams last year.

Football Controversy began in November when White extended Quinn’s contract through the 2017 season.

Quinn entered his third year with the program in 2012, which is often the make-it-or-break-it year when it comes to college football.

The Bulls opened the season with two impressive games. They put a scare into nationally ranked Georgia, running back into the tunnel at Sanford Stadium at halftime trailing by only eight points. One week later, they followed up the performance with an eight-touchdown onslaught and a 56-34 victory over Morgan State.

All signs pointed in the right direction for Quinn and the Bulls before an injury to star running back Branden Oliver in week four shook everything up.

The injury cost Oliver the next four games and the offense halted in his absence. After scoring 79 points in its first two games, Buffalo scored just 64 in its next five – resulting in five losses.

The lack of production led to an outcry from media and fans for freshman quarterback and Buffalo native Joe Licata to start under

Spectrum File Photo

Women's basketball coach Felisha Legette-Jack turned the women's basketball program around in her first season as head coach. She was part of a story line last season that included head coaching successes, controversial firings, big-name hirings and extensions.

center. Quinn gave Licata meaningful playing time for the first time against Toledo in week nine in the third quarter, as the Bulls trailed 25-14. Licata led the offense to one scoring drive, but the Bulls lost their sixth-straight, 25-20.

Quinn chose to stick with Licata the next week and it resulted in the end of Buffalo’s losing streak.

The Bulls went on to win three straight, their first winning streak in the Quinn era, before dropping the last game of the season.

After Quinn capped off three years as head coach at 9-27, White liked the fight the Bulls put together at the end of the season and decided to stick with the coach – showing his trust with the five-year extension.

This fall is pivotal for Quinn and the Bulls. This year’s team is arguably the most talented of all time.

UB has possibly the best offensive and defensive players in program history on the roster in Oliver and senior linebacker Khalil Mack. Additionally, the Bulls return 17 of 22 starters from last season.

Men’s basketball Buffalo’s basketball team had high expectations following one of its most successful seasons in program history, finishing second in the MAC in 2011-12. Despite the losses of conference Player of the Year Mitchell Watt and sharpshooter Zach Filzen, the Bulls hoped to accomplish what they couldn’t the year before – a MAC title.

Graduate Tony Watson and senior forward Javon McCrea both showed hints of greatness. Watson had a magical three-game stretch in February, in which he scored 69 points and shot 15 of 24 from beyond the arc. McCrea was dominant all season, averaging 18 points and 7.9 rebounds and totaling 89 blocked shots.

The team struggled to win consistently but had one defining moment. The Bulls defeated No. 24 ranked Akron 81-67 at Alumni Arena – the first victory over a ranked opponent in school history – and snapped the nation’s longest win streak at 19.

After a loss in the final minute to Kent State in the third round of the MAC Tournament, Witherspoon was informed he had coached his last game at Buffalo.

Many were shocked and even angered by White’s decision, but his hire of the NCAA’s all-time leading assists-man, Bobby Hurley, silenced many of the critics. Hurley is a Duke great who played for legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski and won two national championships.

Women’s basketball Legette-Jack took over a program that went .500 in MAC play only twice in the previous nine seasons, but she proved ready to change the losing culture.

While battling injuries throughout the season, most notably one to Rachael Gregory, who was the team’s leading scorer through its first 16 games, the young squad pulled together to finish with an 8-8 MAC record and a home game in the first round of the MAC Tournament. After defeating Northern Illinois, the team traveled to Cleveland, where it first met up with Miami Ohio.

The Bulls pulled off an 82-70 upset over the RedHawks, but their season ended the next day.

They pushed an Akron team – which defeated them by margins of 18 and 17 in the regular season – to the final minute in an 83-79 loss.

Baseball Despite entering the season picked to come in second-to-last in the MAC, the Bulls finished in second place and won at least two of three games in all nine conference series. Buffalo’s 19 conference victories were its most since joining the conference in 2001 and the success transferred into individual hardware with graduated outfielder Jason Kanzler and Torgalski winning MAC Player and Coach of the Year, respectively.

The Bulls, however, were upset in the MAC Tournament, falling 4-1 to Toledo.

While baseball made history in the spring of 2013, the rest of the athletic department looks to duplicate its success in the fall.

Email: sports@ubspectrum.com

Continued from previous page: Senior trio think I would have the career I’ve had to this point.”

When Neutz first came to UB, he realized his footwork and routerunning ability weren’t up to par with those of a Division I college football player. He began to take time after practice to perfect these skills, and it certainly has paid off.

He corralled 1,015 receiving yards last season – good for second in UB’s single-season record book – and ranked 20th nationally in receiving yards per game with 92.3.

“I never saw myself as a 1,000yard, double-digit touchdown guy at the Division I college football level, so I definitely exceeded my

expectations,” Neutz said. “But I also feel like I earned it because I put in the work to achieve those stats. If you asked me when I was a freshman or sophomore, I would never imagine to get those kind of stats.”

Neutz is currently ranked as the 28th best receiving prospect, according to nfldraftscout.com, placing his NFL odds a bit lower than the other two members of the senior trio. Neutz wasn’t shy to point out the excellence of Mack and Oliver.

“We all came in together so I’ve been with these guys battling the past five years,” Neutz said. “You

see a sense of confidence [in each other]. It almost allows you to relax a little bit more because you have guys with such high caliber that can play the game in such an amazing way.”

Regardless of the individual success the trio has achieved at UB, their careers remain unfulfilled.

When asked what it would take this year to cap off a perfect career as a Bull, each responded in the same fashion: “MAC Championship.”

Email: sports@ubspectrum.com

ALEX NEUTZ

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WHAT TO WATCH FOR Being a fan of a new team, or school, can be daunting. If you are looking for sports this fall, look no further. Here’s a list of the teams, athletes and games on campus that you can’t miss this fall season.

Games to watch: Football vs. Connecticut, Sept. 28 After losing the 2009 International Bowl to the Huskies, Buffalo has been unable to win any of its three regular season contests with Connecticut. The Bulls will have two full weeks to prepare for this game and it will be Buffalo’s last game before conference play begins and a golden opportunity to gain momentum.

Men’s Soccer vs. Akron, Oct. 18 Akron is perennially one of the best teams in the country, and with a conference tournament that only features four teams, every game counts for the men’s soccer team.

UB coach Stu Riddle has upset the Zips before as the head coach at Western Michigan and this team has the returning talent to take Akron down to the wire. If you watch any soccer games this year, this one is as good as any.

Football vs. Ohio, Nov. 5 In the midst of the Bulls’ midseason losing-streak last year, they held a 14-0 lead over then-undefeated Ohio, only to see the lead slowly but surely disappear in the second half. Buffalo and Ohio don’t like each other, and you can bet with a roster full of talented seniors, the Bulls will look t­o gain vengeance in a nationally televised game against the Bobcats.

Players to watch Senior linebacker Khalil Mack Mack is one of the best players at his position in the country. At the beginning of June, Phil Steele named him a third-team All-American. Mack has the chance to break a significant NCAA all-time record in tackles for loss and has the potential to be selected in the first three rounds of the NFL Draft, depending on his output this season. We are witnessing history with Mack.

Senior forward Javon McCrea McCrea shined bright at times last season, finishing third in MAC Player of the Year voting, but it will be interesting to see how much better he can be in a new system and with a full season of senior point guard Jarod Oldham.

Senior guard Jarod Oldham Oldham is coming off a broken wrist that cost him his final 25 games of the season last year.

Teamed up with new head coach Bobby Hurley and two established big men in Will Regan and McCrea,

Spectrum File Photo

Athletic Director Danny White (right) and new head basketball coach Bobby Hurley pose for a picture at Hurley's introductory press conference. Hurley will lead a talented group of upperclassmen that many believe will compete for a MAC title.

Oldham has the potential to become a household name for MAC basketball fans. It is no secret Hurley’s offense will be guard orientated – giving Oldham the opportunity to create his final legacy. Expect to see him penetrating the lane, looking to pass and score often.

Also, don’t be surprised to see him holding some individual hardware come the end of winter.

Story lines Jeff Quinn and the football team Not many people approved of Quinn’s contract extension last fall, and though his contract is now in place until 2017, this season will tell us everything we need to know about him as UB’s head football coach. With one of the best rosters in program history, if the football team doesn’t fulfill its expectations, it could be a demoralizing foreshadowing of what’s to come in the next few years.

Basketball season

Athletic Director Danny White’s decision to fire Reggie Witherspoon drew fury, but his decision to hire Bobby Hurley brought praise. Now, fans can’t stop counting down the days until they see which was more deserved. If Hurley can’t take this talented group to the promise land this year, it could be one of the biggest disappointments in UB sports history.

Bobby Hurley new basketball head coach Hurley performed his first trick just days on the job, getting top recruit Shannon Evans to recommit after Witherspoon’s firing. Many expect Hurley to expand Buffalo’s recruiting, bringing in top talent from all over the country, as he can provide the opportunity for players to learn from one of college basketball’s greatest players.

For this season, Hurley searches to tap into the potential of Oldham and sophomore guard Jarryn Skee-

te. You can guarantee a more uptempo and guard-orientated game plan under Hurley, and it will be interesting to see how quickly the entire team can translate the strategy into victories.

Teams to watch Men’s basketball Even though it is the first year on the job for Hurley, there is still pressure to win this season. McCrea is undoubtedly a top player in the MAC and one the best the program has seen. We may not see another player like him at this university for a long time, so it’s important that we see this team succeed as it is built to in McCrea’s final season.

Men’s soccer This team hasn’t been far off the past two seasons. Two years ago, the Bulls made it to the MAC Tournament, and last season, they suffered from a freakishly long goalless drought. But new head coach Stu Riddle has a reputation for

turning around MAC programs, and he has a goal-scoring pedigree himself. Look for Riddle to lead the Bulls back to the MAC Tournament and make some noise this year.

Baseball ‘They have Division I baseball at Buffalo?’ Yes, we do, and the squad had arguably the most successful 2012-13 season of any team on campus. Consistent winning, however, is something rarely achieved in Western New York, so let’s see if this program can break the trend.

Buffalo will lose the reigning MidAmerican Conference Player of the Year, Jason Kanzler, but return virtually the rest of its starting lineup and pitching staff. This year is Buffalo’s best opportunity to cement itself atop the MAC in consecutive seasons.

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Changing a culture

Michael Thomas taking lessons from his playing days to bring winning soccer to Buffalo OWEN O’BRIEN Sports Editor

As a sixth grader, Michael Thomas found himself as the last line of defense between a former professional soccer player and the net while goalkeeping in his 18-yearold brother’s men’s league game.

A shot was fired directly at him.

Thomas made the save “out of pure self-defense,” but sprained both his wrists with the effort.

Thomas prided himself on showing toughness around his brother, and he was able to finish the half in goal. His courage stuck with him throughout his playing and coaching careers.

He had known exactly what he wanted to do with his life since the second grade: he would attend college, play professionally and then become a coach. Thomas now stands at the third and final stage of his lifelong dream – as the Buffalo women’s soccer head coach.

“At a really young age [I realized soccer was my passion],” Thomas said. “I was always a soccer junkie.”

Thomas is entering his sixth season at UB. Before arriving in Buffalo, he assisted at three others schools – including women’s soccer powerhouse the University of Denver – and excelled as a player, starting at Fort Lewis College in Colorado for three seasons before going on to play professionally. Thomas is taking his successes and lessons from when he played and bringing them over to change the culture of Buffalo women’s soccer, a program that hasn’t had much success.

When he was 13, Thomas would attend his brother’s men’s league games. On occasion, a team would be short and they would allow him to play, although he was much younger than the rest of the players.

He learned certain intricacies of soccer much earlier than most kids.

“You learn so much [playing with older guys] and the first thing is toughness,” Thomas said. “I wasn’t always the best soccer player, but I was never scared of any

courtesy of Paul Hokanson, UB Athletics

Women's soccer coach Michael Thomas, shown talking to his team, has taken lessons from his time as a player to help communicate with his players and build a closer squad.

situation. It was the situations I was put in when I was very young that helped develop my personality as a player and as a coach.”

With the help of his older brother, David, Thomas was able to make his dream of playing soccer a reality. David needed someone to play goalkeeper so he could practice his shot and Thomas, although five years younger, fulfilled the role.

The big brother would fire shots on Thomas and the two began to play more often together, which fueled a fire in Thomas for the rest of his life.

“He’d invite me to play with his friends but if I got the invitation, I better be really good that day,” Thomas said. “He would tell me: ‘If you come up and you are a wimp or don’t do what you are supposed to do, you may not be invited back next time.’ So I’d spend the next hour trying to kill all my brother’s friends.”

Contact and soccer went handin-hand for Thomas his entire life.

When playing with his brother’s friends, his physical play ensured him the opportunity to play again.

He was then able to bring this attitude to organized soccer and his love for the game flourished.

“When I was a kid, I enjoyed contact and I went to a soccer camp and a kid came out on a breakaway and [I] went through this kid and [he] was hurt and the coach praised me,” Thomas said. “I thought that was the greatest thing ever, and from that point on I wanted to be a goalkeeper.”

His talents in net landed him the opportunity to play soccer at Fort Lewis College, one of the most prestigious soccer schools in Division II, in Thomas’ native Colorado. He became the starting goalkeeper after redshirting his first season, but not before he realized all the work he would have to put in to achieve the position.

After seeing his teammates, his first thought was, ‘I’m in over my head and I better get to work.’ Even though Thomas wasn’t the fastest, quickest or most explosive player on the field, he focused on doing the “little things” right and was able to capture three conference championships in four years.

In his senior year, Thomas suffered an ankle injury during the preseason, and when he was cleared to return, his coach told him the starting job was no longer available. He was forced to be the backup for the remainder of his senior year. After going from a starter to a reserve, Thomas looks back and sees the experience as an opportunity to relate to and understand his players.

“It was hard [losing the starting position],” Thomas said. “I can’t sit here and by any means say I was happy about it. But all of those experiences come back and help you as a coach because it’s something I feel as an athlete, I had the success

of being a three-year starter, playing some professional soccer, but I also had some adversities along the way I had to work through. I think as a coach having both of those experiences helps you to relate to players in different ways.”

After a short professional career with the Myrtle Beach Sea Dawgs of the United Soccer League, he realized the odds were against him to ever play consistently at the highest level of soccer in America. His lack of speed continued to plague him and he found that he was no longer bigger than everybody else, like he was at Fort Lewis.

Thomas decided he was going to return to his home in Fort Collins and work at a youth soccer club. He continued in school with hopes of earning his teaching degree and became a high school soccer coach – completing his secondgrade dream.

A call from a colleague, however, derailed these plans.

He was offered the chance to be an assistant coach on both the men’s and women’s soccer teams at the University of WisconsinGreen Bay. He immediately seized the opportunity. Later, he coached at the University of Memphis for one season before returning to his home state as an assistant with the University of Denver.

The team’s success at Denver earned Thomas attention in the national spotlight. After six seasons, he was receiving calls from all over the country and going on trips to find out which program he wanted to make his own.

When he visited Buffalo, he was sold.

“I went to one school and I had a feeling they were scrambling to make something work,” Thomas said. “When I came to my interview at UB, meeting with the academic staff and the professionalism of the athletic staff and the people working in compliance really convinced me that this could really be a place you could build something.”

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Monday, July 1, 2013

SETTING THE TONE Seasoned senior class looks to reverse volleyball team’s fortunes TOM DINKI

Staff Writer

When the six senior volleyball players were deciding where to attend college three years ago, there was one trait about Buffalo that influenced their decision: Buffalo was an underdog.

The desire to turn around a failing program and leave their own legacy is what attracted this class to Buffalo, and now with their final season looming, they have just one more year to take the Bulls to the top.

The class – which consists of libero Kelly Svoboda, middle blocker Carissa McKenna, setter Dani Reinert and outside hitters Christine Fritsche, Dana Musil and Kaja Schirmer – has had their ups and downs through their first three seasons. They are hoping their experience and chemistry with one another on and off the court will pave the way to a Mid-American Conference Championship and a lasting impact on the program.

The senior class has used UB’s status as an underdog in the MAC as motivation to prove this volleyball team is different from past Buffalo teams.

“I didn’t really want to go to a school who was winning all the time,” Fritsche said. “I liked the idea of being an underdog and having to fight to be the top. I wanted to be on the bottom of the MAC and try to work our way up and build the program up. I think a lot of us chose UB for that reason and we’re ready in our senior year to make that belief come true.”

The seniors did not want winning to just be handed to them, and through their first three seasons, it hasn’t. The team has gone 39-53 since the class arrived in 2010. The seniors, however, don’t think of the past few years as a disappointment but a learning experience that will help them in their final season.

Aline Kobayashi, The Spectrum

From left, seniors Liz Scott, Dani Reinert, Kaja Schirmer, Carissa McKenna and Christine Fritsche (Dana Musil not pictured) have been an integral part of the volleyball team for the past three years. After serving as the leadership on two of the youngest teams in the country, they will look to lead the Bulls to the MAC Tournament in their final season.

“It’s been a learning process,” McKenna said. “We were young and I think that gave us the ultimate advantage because we had time to learn and play out our weaknesses.

Most underclassmen don’t get that opportunity. I think it was a great learning experience for us.”

Despite not seeing an improvement in the win total through their time at UB, there is no doubting the senior class has had a great impact individually. Several of the seniors have already etched their names into the program record books. Reinert

is fifth all-time in school history in assists with 2,504 through her first three years. Svoboda sits at sixth in career digs with 1,309, while Musil is on pace to crack the top 10 in career kills by the end of her senior year.

The road to building a successful team has been more difficult than they may have originally thought, with two of their first three seasons being losing ones. But the seniors believe their time together has strengthened the chemistry between them, and it will benefit

them in their final season.

The seniors know their first step in going out with a successful season starts with leadership – sharing their knowledge and experience with their underclassmen teammates. Despite the size of the senior class, they understand they will need contributions from every member of the team, regardless of academic year. No one senior carries the leadership responsibility by herself.

Svoboda and Reinert are hard leaders who push their teammates to their limits, while Fritsche and Schirmer are more quiet and lead by example. Musil is described by her teammates as someone younger players can lean on, while McKenna is the spirited leader of the group. McKenna believes having multiple leaders can benefit a team.

SEE VOLLEYBALL PAGE D9

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Monday, July 1, 2013

What can Quinn do for you?

Following extension, head coach seeks winning season JON GAGNON

Senior Sports Editor

When Jeff Quinn was brought in to be the head coach of UB’s football team in 2009, he was expected to do better than 9-27 through his first three seasons.

Despite Quinn’s below-average start with his new program, first-year Athletic Director Danny White saw fit to give Quinn a fiveyear contract extension through 2017 – a highly debated decision on campus and in the Buffalo area.

“You look at the record and that’s certainly not what we expected,” Quinn said. “I know we were competitive in every game [last year], but down the stretch, there’s two ways a team can go, and this team decided to come together. It demonstrated they had the fight and determination and passion to finish. And I think that was recognized by our new athletic director.”

Quinn is referring to the team’s spirited finish to last year’s regular season – the Bulls won three of their last four games after starting the year 1-7 – that at least partially prompted his extension.

Placing the trust of UB football in Quinn’s hands for the foreseeable future may have been a questionable decision at the time, but with a rise in academia, games scheduled to put the team in the national spotlight and a plethora of NFL caliber talent, it appears the program is making strides on and off the field.

The team’s overall GPA has risen for three consecutive semesters and is currently at the highest it has been in Quinn’s tenure – an accomplishment he thinks is paying off on the gridiron.

“I can see it taking place on the field because you can’t win on the field until you win off the field and I think our kids understand that,” Quinn said.

This upcoming season features games against power conference opponents Ohio State and Baylor,

Courtesy of Paul Hokanson, UB Athletics

Head football coach Jeff Quinn, shown congratulating senior wide receiver Alex Neutz, was given a five-year contract extension following the 2012 season despite a 9-27 record through his first three seasons. Quinn will coach one of the most talented teams in school history this fall.

a home game played at the Bills’ Ralph Wilson Stadium and Buffalo’s final four games of the season being broadcast on the ESPN networks.

In April, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected former Bulls linebacker Steven Means in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. This year’s team has three seniors who all have the potential to follow Means to the NFL – including Khalil Mack, who is regarded as one the best linebackers in the entire country.

“We get an opportunity to play

a great schedule in 2013,” Quinn said. “We had a guy drafted. There’s a lot of things when you look at the total body of work that you see the program heading in the right direction.”

Of course, the program’s steps toward becoming a legitimate contender won’t be solidified until the team proves itself on the field. The timing seems fitting, as this year’s team has sky-high expectations.

“Certainly there’s a sense of urgency to get the results that we need and I think this team is capable of that,” Quinn said.

The Bulls return 17 starters from last season’s team, including the core of the offense.

Sophomore quarterback Joe Licata went 3-1 last season as the team’s starter, senior running back Branden Oliver is just 626 yards shy of breaking the school’s all-time rushing record and senior receiver Alex Neutz was named to the AllMAC second team last season.

Six Bulls were named to Phil Steele’s preseason All-MAC teams.

Despite the anticipation for a turnaround, Quinn’s mantra hasn’t changed.

“Our destination will never change,” Quinn said. “It’s a process and every single year we set a very simple goal and that is to be extremely competitive every single game and get the results necessary. I’ve said I want every player to graduate with a degree from UB and to compete for MAC championships and this season is no different than it was last season.”

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Monday, July 1, 2013

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Baseball sets tone for UB Athletics

BEN TARHAN

Senior Sports Editor

As a writer who covers UB sports, I’ve gotten used to writing about teams that lose.

There is always a point in the semester when I think I have run out of creative ways to make a losing team interesting.

The baseball team gave us all a nice change of pace this spring.

For a school that doesn’t have much history of winning, the perennially basement-dwelling baseball team was not the first place to look.

A year after making their first ever Mid-American Conference Tournament, the Bulls were chosen to finish in the bottom of the conference in 2013.

Even when the Bulls started conference play with a winning record, it was chalked up to a weak nonconference schedule.

Then something amazing happened. They started to win and they didn’t stop.

It didn’t matter if the Bulls were losing by four runs in the bottom of the ninth or winning by one run in the eighth – in situations where they always used to find ways to lose, they now found ways to win.

They were the only team in the MAC to win every conference series, including a sweep of defending champion Kent State, and they held first place until the final day of regular season play.

Though they didn’t win the regular season title and bowed out of the tournament much earlier than expected, this team showed a resilience and grit rarely seen from UB sports teams.

I find it appropriate that they started 2013 on a strong note, because the 2013-14 sports seasons have the potential to be some of the best in school history.

The baseball team was led by a group of gritty, hardworking seniors who took their lumps as underclassmen. The football and men’s basketball teams have similar leadership.

Senior outfielder Jason Kanzler won MAC Player of the Year for the baseball team after leading the league in home runs and dazzling with his glove.

Senior running back Branden Oliver, senior linebacker Khalil Mack and senior forward Javon McCrea all have the capability to dominate the conference in a similar fashion.

On top of that, this season has been anticipated for years from the football and basketball teams.

It’s been 13 years since Buffalo jumped to Division I and it looks like it may finally be time for the Bulls to announce their arrival as a winning school.

With a new, ambitious athletic director, strong returning talent on nearly every team and every program seemingly moving in the right direction, it’s time for fans to at least have expectations for these teams.

This has happened in the past as well. The last two seasons, the football team seemed just a game away from putting together pivotal early-season victories but never could.

Instead, the Bulls had their third and fourth consecutive losing seasons.

The basketball team struggled this season, and despite upsetting No. 24 Akron and ending its 19-game winning streak, the Bulls couldn’t make it past the quarterfinals.

But something tells me this year is different. These aren’t the same old UB sports teams; these are teams with hungry, talented leaders who are just as sick of losing as the fans.

These are the players who are going to carry UB sports into relevance.

But why is the baseball team so important? It paved the way.

If these teams that have so much potential this year falter and lose a game or it seems like they are against insurmountable odds, they only need to look at what the baseball team accomplished.

The Bulls climbed out of the cellar, and after nine years of absence in postseason play, they had enough. They willed their way into the playoffs in 2012 and established themselves as a championship contender in 2013.

If a program that receives fewer scholarships than its competition and doesn’t even have an on-campus facility can do that, what can the two biggest programs on campus do?

I’m willing to bet a lot more than people think.

spring season. Courtney Mann, Katie Roberts, N’Dea Johnson and Kassidy Kidd all played well during spring ball and will look to lead the Bulls offensively. Goalkeeping has been a rock the past two seasons with senior goalkeeper Ainsley Wheldon protecting the net.

Wheldon enters the season ranked second in school history for shutouts (15), sixth in saves (311), sixth in victories (16) and sixth in goals against average (1.31). This season, however, Thomas hopes the team’s success won’t have to rely exclusively on her.

“We think we are in a position where we have more versatility than

we had in the past,” Thomas said.

“Our goal every year is to compete to be a factor in the conference.

The MAC is a very strong soccer conference right now [which had] two teams in national tournament last year. We believe we should be a major factor in this conference, and competing in the high end of this conference, and we are hoping to make a strong statement of the direction of this program this fall.”

The Bulls kick off their season traveling to Michigan State on Aug. 23. Buffalo’s first home game will be a noon start on Sept. 1 at UB Stadium.

Email: ben.tarhan@ubspectrum.com

Continued from page D5: Michael Thomas The Bulls struggled in Thomas’ first three years, winning eight games and only two in Mid-American Conference play. Thomas admitted it was difficult to work on a recruiting class immediately after being hired – considering most players already committed to schools for not only the next season, but the one after as well.

In 2011, everything clicked.

Buffalo won eight of its first 10 games in 2011, matching its combined total from the three previous seasons. The Bulls finished the season 15-5-4 (4-3-4 MAC) and won their first MAC Tournament game since 2000. Many at UB compli-

mented Thomas on the job he and his team did that season, but he was hesitant to call the season “great.”

“It was a very good season and people kept telling me what a great year we had and I cautioned the use of the word ‘great’ because the goal of our program is to be in the national tournament,” Thomas said.

“I’m not willing to use the word ‘great’ until we are in the national tournament. But I think it was an important step toward our goal of getting into the national tournament and the team developed at least part of the identity that we want to.”

The 2012 season came down to the final game for the Bulls. They needed a win over Akron to earn a berth in the MAC Tournament and reach the postseason in consecutive seasons for the first time since 2002-03. The Zips got the better of the Bulls with an overtime goal that ended Buffalo’s season earlier than expected. Thomas hopes the team learned an important lesson to carry into 2013.

“We never should have left it that close,” Thomas said. “If you leave it to one game, things can happen.”

Buffalo is out for revenge this year, which is evident from the offseason training program and the

Continued from page D6: Volleyball

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“[It’s great that] we all take different leadership roles because then you always know what you’re going to get out of someone and it’s not just one person trying to overpower everyone,” McKenna said. “Everyone is just equal and taking on different roles. That way you can play as a whole combination.”

Five of the six seniors were in the same recruiting class in 2010, and they have formed a close bond off the court in their time together.

Four of the six members of the senior class now live together, and they describe themselves as ‘best friends’ and ‘sisters,’ nearly inseparable off the court. The seniors’ friendship away from volleyball and what they have been through together have given them extra motivation to play hard when they step out onto the court.

“We’ve all had each other through the best times in the world and the worst times,” Fritsche said. “So we’re all playing for something bigger than ourselves. We’re playing for each other. There’s something special about this year because we’re all so close and we know this is our last year together.”

Thrown onto an older team composed of juniors and seniors, the class helped one another to adapt and mature in the college setting, relying on each other for support as they faced the demands of being a Division I student-athlete.

Schirmer is the only member of the class who has not been with the other girls for

three seasons, as she transferred to UB from New Hampshire before her junior year.

“They really made me feel welcome,” Schrimer said. “They were really welcoming to anyone that wanted to be a part of [the team] and work hard to change the program and have success.”

Despite having only one more season to accomplish their original goal in turning around the UB volleyball program, the senior class does not feel pressure to win but motivation to prove their class can lead the way to a championship.

They are not only concerned with having success in their last year, but setting up their underclassmen to have winning seasons for years to come.

“What we’ve been trying to do since we got here is change the culture,” Svoboda said. “We’re trying to set the example for the younger girls so when we leave they know what it’s going to take to continue a tradition that hopefully we start.”

They are motivated to succeed not only for themselves, but for their teammates who have become more than just teammates. The difficulty to win doesn’t faze them, because it’s what brought them together in the first place.

Email: sports@ubspectrum.com

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Monday, July 1, 2013

Continued from D12: Riddle The two seasons he spent at Evansville were a turning point in his life.

During his first year at Evansville in 2005, Riddle met Jessica.

Less than two years later, on May 6, 2007, Riddle took the first step toward creating a family in the United States when he made Jessica his wife.

Riddle had returned to the United States with the intention of settling down after years of traveling spent away from his friends and family. The years following his wedding were spent traveling the country looking for coaching positions.

The months after his marriage in 2007 and the first half of 2008 were spent in Western Michigan before moving to Connecticut for the last half of 2008. Finally in 2009, Riddle found a more permanent position as the head coach at Western Michigan.

While at Western Michigan, Riddle and Jessica had their two daughters. Rylee is now 3 and Nora is almost 1.

Since the girls have moved to Buffalo, Riddle said it’s been a nice release to get away from soccer while he is spending time with his family. When he first moved to the area, he was living in a hotel room with one of his assistants and they were always discussing the day’s practice or a player they were recruiting.

Riddle’s hope is that he can spend a long period of time at Buffalo and raise his family while he builds the program.

Coming to America As a 19-year-old, Riddle found himself in a daunting situation.

After playing a season for a New Zealand super-club team called

Courtesy of Stu Riddle

In 2007, Riddle married his wife, Jessica, who he met during his time at Evansville.

In 2010, they had their first daughter, Rylee (in Jessica’s lap), and last year, they had their second daughter, Nora (in Riddle’s lap).

Wellington United and experiencing success, Riddle had played for New Zealand’s Olympic qualifying team.

Even though the national team didn’t qualify for the Olympics, Riddle made four appearances, including one in the final minutes of a victory over Oceanic rival Australia.

To this day, it remains one of his most cherished soccer memories.

Riddle was ready to take the next step in his career, so he was at the airport to travel to England in search of an English League contract.

What made it difficult was leaving home. It was tough for the young man when success meant he would not be returning to the place he grew up.

Even though Riddle would move many more times, oftentimes halfway around the world, and once away from his wife and two small children, he said this was the most difficult move he has made.

Through the pursuit of his dream, Riddle’s parents, Allen and Mary, have only been supportive.

They’ve visited him when they can and offered him a safety net if he ever decided to change his career path.

It seems Riddle will not need to take his parents up on their offer, though. Even when struggling, he has been able to find a way to make soccer work for him, and now he seems more entrenched in it than ever.

That is at least partially thanks to Bobby Clark.

In the time Riddle spent with the national team, head coach Clark’s coaching strategy changed Riddle’s perspective on the game he loved.

For the first time, Riddle began to see soccer as a team game.

Before playing for Clark, Riddle believed soccer was an individual sport because of all the time he had spent drilling to improve his individual skills, like ball handling.

Clark – now the men’s head coach at Notre Dame – was a mentor to the players and steered each in the direction he thought appropriate.

For a few players, it meant that Clark helped them catch onto the English Premier League. For others, it meant the United States college system.

At the time, Riddle had not considered mixing his education and soccer career, so he traveled to England to stay with his grandparents in hopes he could sign a professional contract with an English soccer team.

“I’d done so well in the highest level of the New Zealand league, got some great experience playing with the national team and beating teams that had premier league play-

ers on them,” Riddle said. “I didn’t really know what to expect.”

Looking back, Riddle believes he may have had an easier time catching on with higher-level teams that played possession-oriented soccer, a style that fit him better.

Without much of an idea of what to do with his soccer career, Riddle called Clark, who suggested he travel to the United States and join a college team there.

Riddle started at Coastal Carolina University in 1997 and played two seasons, scoring 18 goals in 34 appearances.

After playing two and a half years against men, Riddle had to make some mental adjustments to play in his age group again.

“I think that what that meant at the time was that you had to become more of a leader because you had better experience than some of the other players,” Riddle said. “But of course there was no one to turn to anymore. There was no older, experienced head to turn to and get you through bad situations. We had to become those people ourselves.”

Second chance at the pros After two seasons at Coastal with no NCAA Tournament appearances and a coaching change, Riddle and a teammate wanted a chance to play in the national tournament.

They decided to transfer to San Jose State.

Before what would have been his first season with the Spartans, Riddle returned home to play a season with Nelson Suburbs F.C. Riddle had a strong season, scoring 18 goals in 15 appearances, and caught the eye of a new professional team – and the first professional New Zealand team – Football Kingz F.C. The Football Kingz were gearing up for their first season in the Australian National Soccer League.

They offered Riddle a two-year contract and he accepted, ending his NCAA career and his San Jose State career before he even got to California.

It was a short-lived relationship, though. After a disappointing season in which Riddle didn’t see much playing time, he parted ways with the Kingz.

“The most important thing at that point after leaving the Kingz was to make sure I got my degree,” Riddle said. “Once I had that degree, if I wanted to try and play again at that higher level, I would.

But I needed to get that degree under my belt.”

So after a year – and his second try at professional soccer – Riddle returned to the United States and Coastal Carolina to complete his degree.

Early success to present success In retrospect, Riddle has been able to look back at nearly all of his experiences with a positive attitude

Courtesy of Stu Riddle

Riddle’s playing career spanned over the course of two decades and four continents. He spent two seasons with the Des Moines Menace (above) of the USL Premier Development League, making 41 appearances from 2001-02 and scoring 23 goals.

– whether it was spending a summer working in a pub, leaving the Football Kingz after the first year of a two-year contract or spending years away from his home and family.

Riddle’s new office in the soccer suite in Alumni Arena reflects this optimism well. It is a long, highceiling room with suffocating beige walls, which puts his focus on the TV, where he watches game film.

His desk sits in the back of the room, one side hugging the wall and the other side separating him from the door.

The objects that adorn his office correspond directly with his life passions.

On the windowsill behind him sit pictures of his family – a wedding picture of Jessica and him, a frame featuring photos of Rylee and Nora and a collage of Liverpool stickers arranged by Rylee.

Between the frames are replicas of the World Cup and European Cup. A frame with a picture of his 1996 Olympic qualifier team with the pennant he received for the game and a scorecard shares a wall with the door close to his desk.

With his family and passion behind him and his past accomplishments all around him, Riddle has placed his goal in front of him.

Riddle has been all over the world to play soccer, but now in Buffalo, with his wife, two daughters, lifelong passion and resources to build a program the way he wants, Riddle is ready to “put the tent pegs in” – which he has been looking to do all along.

Email: sports@ubspectrum.com

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Crossword of the Day

HOROSCOPES Monday, July 1, 2013 FROM UNIVERSAL UCLICK

ACROSS 1 Kind of hanger 6 Wee devil 9 Has a few too many 14 Exotic land, in verse 15 Pool member?

16 Digby “Digger” ___ of “The Life of Riley” 17 Vitality 18 Cotton gin inventor Whitney 19 Poke fun at 20 Ireland, poetically 23 Cleanse (of) 24 Med. journal publisher 25 They may be suspended from art class 27 They get things rolling 32 Peacekeeping force 33 Inseparable twosome 34 River mouth phenomenon 36 Film category 39 It’s used in gumbo 41 Steel impurities 43 Actress Phillips 44 Isn’t quite vertical 46 Intrepid spirit 48 The avant-garde’s Yoko 49 Run at an easy pace 51 Capitol Hill doings 53 Identify incorrectly 56 It can be made or poked 57 Holiday for a holiday

58 Rolling Stones hit 64 Sugar coating 66 Start for Baltimore?

67 Johnny B. of song 68 Cod cousins 69 Airport stat.

70 NBA legend Baylor 71 Twitter posting 72 Not real smart 73 Score symbols

DOWN 1 Computer menu option 2 Edging 3 Latest fad 4 Away from the mouth 5 Image on the back of a dollar bill 6 Sewed up 7 Bamako’s land 8 Rainbow creator 9 Satchel’s cousin 10 Inspired poem 11 Gibson garnish 12 Dinsmore of fiction 13 They’re supported by runners 21 Bowling league’s need 22 Horror star Chaney 26 Suffix denoting “residents of ” 27 Simon Cowell’s old show, familiarly 28 Heat in the microwave 29 Reptile with brilliantly colored bands 30 Plumber’s right-angled joints

Edited by Timothy E. Parker July 1, 2013 ON THE ROCKS By Kelly Pristow

31 Infectious bacteria, briefly 35 Fever and shivering 37 Tolled 38 First grandchild?

40 Any minute now, to a bard 42 Muddlement 45 Most meager 47 Horror villain Freddy 50 Ground-bound bird 52 Arch support 53 Strength 54 Elizabeth, to Camilla 55 Drew back, as a tide 59 Mythical haunter of the Himalayas 60 Falcons or Eagles, e.g.

61 Dalmatian and dachshund 62 Entrance for extraction 63 Pinings 65 Holland’s Zuyder ___

CANCER (June 21July 22) -- The right situation is staring you in the face. You may not recognize it until it is almost too late, but you can wake up just in time.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22) -- You can change the way you do things, and perhaps even your luck, but you can't change the things others do.

You can only deal with them well.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22) -- Someone may be making demands on you that you are not able to meet -- at least not right away. Keep this in mind as the day progresses.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 22) -- That invitation you've been turning down regularly isn't likely to be extended many more times. Perhaps it's time to change your tune.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- You mustn't spend too much time thinking about what others will say if you do this or do that; rather, focus on doing it right, whatever it is.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -- It's time for you to take control of those things that will affect your own future. Today, even something small can prove to be big.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -You may find yourself waiting and waiting for something that was never promised to you in the first place.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Someone older and wiser has a few words of wisdom for you today. Make yourself available and you will surely benefit almost right away.

FALL SPACES ARE

GOING FAST RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) -- You have news for a loved one today, but he or she may not know how to react at first.

You can smooth the way for both of you.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) -- Someone else has what you want. Don't stoop to larceny, however! You can derive a great deal of inspiration from this situation.

TAURUS (April 20May 20) -- Despite following the advice of a trusted friend, you may not be able to extricate yourself from an uncomfortable situation.

GEMINI (May 21June 20) -- You're not likely to find the answers you're looking for in the places you've been looking. Try conducting your search closer to home.

ubspectrum.com

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Monday, July 1, 2013

THE ANSWER TO HIS RIDDLE Men’s soccer coach brings passion for family, soccer to Buffalo Courtesy of Stu Riddle

Men’s soccer coach Stu Riddle spent the last four seasons on the sidelines at Western Michigan, leading the Broncos to two Mid-American Conference championship games and an upset of defending national champion Akron in 2011. Now he’s bringing his propensity for winning to UB’s sidelines.

BEN TARHAN

Senior Sports Editor

In 2005, men’s head soccer coach Stu Riddle was playing professional soccer in Australia at 29 years old.

Since he left his native New Zealand a decade earlier, he had lived all over the world. He had spent time in New Zealand, Australia, the United States and England, leading a nomadic lifestyle for most of that time.

But during his time in Australia, Riddle took a look at his life and had a lot of questions.

“I was living with a girl that I met out of a newspaper ad, living out of a suitcase,” Riddle said. “I was enjoying my soccer – it was a good league and I was enjoying it – but I was sort of looking down the line going: ‘What am I going to be doing in two or three years? This can’t go on.’ So I got to that point and thought, I want to get back to the states and get to coaching.”

Riddle’s decision to come back to the United States has proved to be a turning point in his life. After spending parts of six years earning his bachelor’s degree in physical education at Coastal Carolina, Riddle grew fond of the United States; his return marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life.

Over the past 17 years, Riddle has traveled all over the world playing and coaching soccer. The game, and his unwavering passion for it, have come to define him.

The reward Before coming to Buffalo in January, Riddle spent four years as head coach at Western Michigan.

As a conference rival, he was impressed with the UB staff ’s professional demeanor and the school’s facilities.

When Riddle saw the head coaching position was open after the 2012 season, he grabbed the opportunity. He knew the Bulls had the resources to build a program to take to the next level.

He applied for the position and was hired in January.

For the first time as a head coach, Riddle has the resources to recruit athletes from his home country, New Zealand. He said it’s one of the most exciting parts about working at Buffalo. One player from New Zealand will attend UB in the fall.

In Buffalo, Riddle has finally found a place where he can put together all the aspects of his life he feels most passionate about.

He began recruiting and evaluating current talent immediately upon his hiring, and his wife, Jessica, and two daughters, Rylee and Nora, joined him here in April. Not

only does he see an opportunity to raise his family in Buffalo, but also to build a program with resources to do things he hasn’t been able to do before.

After years as a nomadic player and then as an assistant coach looking to catch on somewhere, Riddle earned the accolades and was able to choose Buffalo as much as Buffalo chose him.

Becoming a coach Riddle’s journey to Buffalo has been long and winding. He spent time with three different colleges and two professional teams just as a coach.

During his time at Western Michigan, he led the Broncos to two Mid-American Conference Championship game appearances and upset defending national champion Akron in the 2012 semifinals.

His success at Western Michigan is just the most recent of his coaching accolades.

Prior to leading that program, Riddle held assistant coaching positions at two universities and player-coach positions with two United Soccer Premier Development League (PDL) teams.

In 2008, he spent the summer as a player-coach with the Kalamazoo Outrage of the PDL and the fall as an assistant at Fairfield University.

It was a wildly successful year for Riddle. He was hired with the Out-

rage in August of 2007 and spent the entire fall scouting and recruiting players.

When the season finally began, Riddle guided the first-year Outrage to an appearance as one of the final eight teams in the nation in the PDL. After his successful summer, Riddle went to coach at Fairfield.

With the Stags, he was able to recruit New Zealanders for the first time. He recruited four New Zealanders to play for Fairfield, three of whom recently graduated.

The Stags won the Metro-Atlantic Athletic Conference tournament that season, upsetting No. 6 Loyola and making an NCAA Tournament appearance.

He followed up his successful 2008 with a hiring as the head coach at Western Michigan in January 2009.

Despite his success there, Riddle wanted to work more within his program, which prompted his move to Buffalo.

Building a home The years that followed the completion of Riddle’s bachelor’s degree were integral in how he became a coach.

After a year break from school in 1999 while he was playing professional soccer in New Zealand, Riddle returned to Coastal Carolina in 2000 to complete his degree.

While taking classes during the year, Riddle played with a PDL team called the Des Moines Menace during the summer. He also volunteered with the Coastal Carolina team, which allowed him to work out with the squad and stay in shape.

He graduated in 2003 with a degree in physical education. During the time it took him to earn his bachelor’s degree, Riddle volunteered at a YMCA in the area.

After graduation he spent a few months there, but he found out he would not be able to renew his work visa while working there.

Instead, Riddle decided to spend his last few months in the United States playing soccer. He played for the West Michigan Edge, thanks to a friend who had contacts in the PDL. When his work visa expired, Riddle returned to the southern hemisphere and played a season with the Altona Magic of the Australian Premier League.

After that season, Riddle returned to the United States with a new visa and began pursuing a career in coaching. He spent the summer volunteering at soccer camps and was eventually offered a graduate assistant position at the University of Evansville. Riddle earned his Master’s degree in public administration there.

SEE RIDDLE, PAGE D10

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