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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2018 PAGE 3 What UB should consider in its search for a new athletic director Both in and out of house candidates pose pros and cons
VOLUME 67 NO. 30
PAGE 5 Highlighting what's important Student creates speech recognition app, highlights keywords in lectures
PAGE 6 The big three Upperclassmen carry wrestling team during program’s toughest season
Four comedians to share SA’s Comedy Series
UB football player’s lawsuit moved to higher court
Ron Funches, Alex Moffat, Anna Drezen and Streeter Seidell set for March 30th performances
An appellate court will hear oral arguments in a lawsuit against the university SARAH CROWLEY SENIOR NEWS EDITOR
COURTESY OF SA/WME AGENCY
Ronald Funches, Alex Moffat, Anna Drezden, Streeter Seidell will be performers at this year’s SA Comedy Series on March 30.
BRENTON BLANCHET SENIOR ARTS EDITOR
Ron Funches, Alex Moffat, Anna Drezen and Streeter Seidell will headline the 17th annual Student Association Comedy Series. On Tuesday morning, SA announced the four comedians as this year’s lineup for the Friday, March 30 show at the Center for the Arts. This year’s comedy series will see two shows, which a change from SA’s usual one show format. The two performances will take place at 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., with all four comedians performing twice. Funches has starred and contributed to several Comedy Central and Adult Swim talk shows and sketch shows, including his
UB prepares for peak flu season Reports suggest one of the worst flu seasons in decades HARUKA KOSUGI ASST. NEWS EDITOR
Pressure in his head. Body aches. Congestion. The trio of flu-like symptoms convinced Chris LaGatta to make an appointment at Michael Hall, where he was waiting to be seen Tuesday afternoon.
reccurring role on “@midnight” and writing for “The Eric Andre Show” and “Kroll Show.” One of Funches’ most prominent recurring roles was in the NBC sitcom “Undateable” as Shelly. Moffat will also be performing at the Comedy Series. Moffat is currently a “Saturday Night Live” cast member, having joined the show in 2016. He has impersonated many celebrities including Conor McGregor and Eric Trump. Drezen will be hitting the stage on March 30. Drezen has written for SNL since 2016, and her stand up has been featured on Comedy Central’s website. CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
He had yet to be diagnosed, but LaGatta, a junior psychology major, said he thinks he caught the bug from his roommates while living in Hadley Village. LaGatta is one of the many UB students who have headed for Michael Hall with flulike symptoms since the start of the semester. Susan Snyder, director of the UB Student Health Services, said there has been a “modest number” of flu cases on campus, but could not disclose an exact number. Student Health Services has vaccinated over 1,000 students against the flu since September, and they have roughly 300 doses of flu vaccinations left to administer to registered UB students, Paula Taton, the clinic manager of the Student Health Services, said. CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
UB BLOCKS THE COMPETITION Read more about the MAC leading men’s team and division leading women’s team on
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A UB football player’s lawsuit against the university – a case that could have statewide and even national implications – continues to wind its way through the courts. State Supreme Court Judge E. Jeannette Ogden transferred the case to the New York State Appellate Division Feb. 2 after hearing from UB’s counsel, Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman and Assistant Attorney General Melissa H. Thore. Schneiderman and Thore argued Jan. 30 that the case fell under the appellate jurisdiction because it was based on whether or not UB made a decision based on “substantial evidence,” a matter decided by courts of appeals. UB’s attorneys requested the transfer in their Dec. 14 response to a petition filed Nov. 3 by a UB football player. The student alleged in the petition that UB violated his right to due process after an administrative panel found him guilty of possession of a weapon and harassment in September for allegedly waving an airsoft gun at a group of teammates in July 2017. The Spectrum agreed last semester not to identify the player for now. The panel initially suspended the player
TAKING THE R UB’s most resigned classes in the five largest departments in STEM and liberal arts
New year, new cups Campus Dining & Shops introduces smaller fountain beverage cups
ASST. NEWS EDITOR
Tyler Craven, a senior computer science major, was doing well in CSE 331, Introduction to Algorithm Analysis and Design last fall. But when that success came at the expense of his other classes, he was struggling to keep up and had to resign the course. Craven isn’t the only student who struggled with the decision to resign last semester. The Spectrum requested data from the Office of Institutional Analysis on the most resignations from last fall in selected undergraduate sections with 15 or more students within the UB School of Engineering and Applied Sciences and the College of Arts and Sciences. The data does not reflect the resignation of graduate students from co-taught courses. THE BREAKDOWN: 1. CSE 250 - Data Structures:
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The School of Engineering and Applied Sciences saw the highest number of resignations within the Department of Computer Science and Engineering with CSE 250, having a resignation rate of 22.1 percent last fall. The class teaches the analysis of design, implementation and properties of advanced data structures. Of the 204 students who enrolled in the class, 58 resigned by the end of the semester. The course was taught by Andrew R. Hughes, a computer science and engineering teaching assistant. Hughes could not be reached for comment. Rachel Roberts, a senior computer science major, previously took CSE 250 and said she felt like the course is a “weed-out” class with hard material.
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for two years and revoked his student housing, which he received as part of an athletic scholarship package. The student appealed the school’s decision and eventually received a lessened penalty –– a three-year long disciplinary probation period and housing revocation. Although the panel agreed the punishment was “disproportionate” compared to the crime, it found the student was still guilty and would not reverse its decision. Joshua Lippes, lead attorney for the student-run nonprofit Sub-Board I, who is representing the student as a private attorney, said he was not surprised by Ogden’s decision and will continue to “push the case forward.” The appellate court has not given the parties a date to deliver oral arguments and could take anywhere from several weeks to several months to do so. Lippes argued that UB did not base its decision on substantial evidence and that his client was denied rights afforded to him by New York State law and the U.S. Constitution, including the right to representation during a hearing, the right to cross-examination and the right to view evidence before making an appeal.
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PHOTO ILLUSTRATION / JACK LI, THE SPECTRUM
UB Campus Dining & Shops recently introduced new plastic cups, a change from the green paper-based cups used in previous semesters.
BENJAMIN BLANCHET SENIOR FEATURES EDITOR
Fountain drinks are 10 percent smaller this semester than last, but cost the same amount. In January, Campus Dining & Shops introduced a new plastic version of their previous paper-based cups. The change, according to CDS, was made to change the cups “in terms of both integrity and ability to be recycled,” with the new plastic cups being both recyclable and reusable. “The process [to create new cups] began last spring, and wrapped up this past semester in response to two issues: the current cup breaking down quickly and becoming soft before the guest finished using it and the fact that it could not be commercially composted or recycled on campus,” Raymond Kohl, marketing manager for CDS, said in an email. The new plastic cup, however, differs from the previous cup in more than material. The size of the cup, 20 oz., is down from its 22 oz. predecessor, according to Kohl who said 20 oz. is the industry standard for fountain beverages. The price of fountain beverages served at UB is still $1.99, remaining unchanged since last semester. CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
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TAKING THE R CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
2. CSE 474 - Introduction to Machine Learning:
CSE 474, which teaches students how to improve computer programs, saw the second highest resignation rate within the department of Computer Science and Engineering, with a 21.1 percent resignation rate. Four students resigned out of the 15 originally enrolled. Sargur N. Srihari, a SUNY Distinguished Professor of computer science and engineering, taught the course last fall along with graduate course CSE 574. Srihari explained that unlike almost all of computer science, the subject of machine learning depends heavily on probability theory and calculus. “It comes as somewhat of a shock to computer science majors that they need to understand not only mathematical concepts but also have to learn to code in newly developed programming libraries such as Tensorflow released just a year ago by Google,” Srihari said. “Although the projects can be done in teams of two, undergraduates may lack the same degree of support from peers as the graduate students enjoy.” Although the course-load is demanding, Srihari feels the rewards like the skillsets students acquire, specifically the high salaries that are offered within the field of computer science. “Due to the shortage of those skilled in machine learning, salaries are extremely high,” Srihari said. “A Ph.D candidate in machine learning from UB was offered a starting salary of $300,000. This lead The New York Times to write a piece that AI salaries are comparable to NFL salaries.” Craven, who is taking CSE 474 this spring, said he is really enjoying the class so far. However, he said he was worried that linear algebra was not a prerequisite for this course and will have to teach it to himself as the semester progresses.
Thursday, February 8, 2018
3. CSE 341 - Computer Organization:
Top 10: Fall 2017 Resignations*
CSE 341, which looks at the basic hardware and software topics of computer organization, had a total enrollment of 78 students in section B of the course last fall and saw 20 resignations. The resignation rate was 20.4 percent. Kris D. Schindler, teaching and research associate professor of computer science and engineering, taught the section last fall and was not available for comment.
(in selected undergraduate sections with fifteen or more students)
1
4
4. CSE 115 - Introduction to Computer Science I:
Introduction to Computer Science I, an entry level class designed to get students familiar with computer science basics, had a total class of 159 and saw 36 resignations in section C. The final resignation rate was 20.4 percent. Jesse L. Hartloff, teaching assistant professor of computer science and engineering, taught the course last fall and was not available for comment.
7
6. PSY 295 - Communicating for Psychological Sciences:
Within the psychology department, Communicating Psychological Sciences saw the highest rate of resignations with a total of 16.7 percent in section A. The class teaches the introduction of ways that psychologists
159 - 36 123 27 - 5 22
8
-
5. CSE 421 - Introduction to Operating Systems:
CSE 421 covers the principles and techniques in the design of operating systems, particularly emphasizing multiprogramming. Out of a class of 58 in section A of the course, 12 students resigned, resulting in a resignation rate of 17.1 percent. Karthik Dantu, an assistant professor of computer science and engineering who taught this course last fall, said students might sometimes underestimate how much effort the course may require, although he said tries to paint an honest picture of what is to be expected at the start of the semester. “Its one of the tougher classes in the department and requires a lot of sustained programming effort,” Dantu said. “Assignments may take two to three weeks to complete, and that may be difficult for students who may sometimes sign up for too many classes.”
204 - 58 146
25 4 21
CSE 250 Data Structures
2
22.1%
5
CSE 115 Computer Science 1
9
ECO 435 International Economics
15.6%
SSC 103 Introduction to Health and Human Services
13.8%
CSE 341 Computer Organization
78 - 20 58
21.1%
6
CSE 421 Operating Systems
58 - 12 46
18.5%
3
CSE 474 Intro Machine Learning
15 - 4 11
20 - 4 16
17.1%
20.4%
PSY 295 Communicating for Psychological Sciences
16.7%
10
21 - 3 18
BIO 344 Neuroethology
21 - 3 18
BIO 402 Advanced Cell and Developmental Biology 1
12.5% 12.5%
# = enrolled in course | # = resigned from course | # = remaining total
23 3 20
COM 300 Written Communication
32 - 4 28
COM 101 Principles of Communication
-
11.5% 11.1%
* TOP 10 Fall 2017 resignations solely from the College of Arts and Sciences and School of Engineering and Applied Sciences
GRAPHIC / PIERCE STRUDLER
communicate in scientific contexts. Section A of the course saw four out of 20 students resign. Katharina Barth, lecturer in the psychology department, who taught section A of this course last fall, declined to comment. 7. ECO 435 - International Economics:
International Economics was the highest resigned course in the Department of Economics, with a resignation percentage of 15.6. ECO 435 had a total enrollment of 27 undergraduate students last fall, with five students who resigned. The course is crosstaught with a higher graduate course, and covers the classical law of comparative advantage, modern theory of trade and other topics. Winston Chang, professor of economics and director of masters program, taught the course last fall. Chang was not available for comment. Vidit Vaghela, a senior economics major, took Chang’s class last fall. Vaghela feels
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the class was probably one of the hardest courses he has taken at UB due to the vast amount of work and practical material. The professor was hard sometimes, but provided critical feedback which was valuable, Vaghela said. “Professor Chang is very intelligent, so he expects students to put in the necessary work, especially considering it is a senior level class,” Vaghela said. “It is extremely helpful if you’re going to get a job or spend a lot of time in economics and finance in your future.” 8. SSC 103 - Introduction to Health and Human Services:
Introduction to Health and Human Services offers the study of health and human service systems in the US. It was the highest resigned course in the Social Sciences Interdisciplinary Program as it saw 4 out of 25 students resign the WEB section. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5
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OPINION
Thursday, February 8, 2018
Editorial Board
The Spectrum | Page 3
What UB should consider in its search for a new athletic director
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Hannah Stein
MANAGING EDITOR
David Tunis-Garcia EDITORIAL EDITOR
Maddy Fowler COPY EDITORS
Dan McKeon, Chief Emma Medina NEWS EDITORS
Sarah Crowley, Senior Max Kalnitz Haruka Lucas Kosugi, Asst. Anna Savchenko, Asst. FEATURES EDITORS
Benjamin Blanchet, Senior Erik Tingue, Asst. Wanly Chen, Asst. ARTS EDITORS
Brenton Blanchet, Senior Brian Evans, Asst. SPORTS EDITORS
Thomas Zafonte, Senior Daniel Petruccelli MULTIMEDIA EDITORS
Allison Staebell, Senior Elijah Pike, Asst. Jack Li, Asst. CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Pierce Strudler CARTOONIST
Ardi Digap
CARTOON / ARDI DIGAP
Both in and out of house candidates pose pros and cons
Professional Staff OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
Helene Polley
ADVERTISING MANAGER
EDITORIAL BOARD
Ayesha Kazi GRAPHIC DESIGN MANAGERS
Stephen Jean-Pierre Shawn Zhang, Asst.
THE SPECTRUM Thursday, February 8, 2018 Volume 67 Number 30 Circulation 4,000
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. For information on adverstising with The Spectrum, visit www.ubspectrum.com/advertising or call us directly at 716-645-2152
UB’s past two athletic directors left for more lucrative positions after brief. As UB begins the search for a replacement, both in-house and outside hires present advantages and drawbacks. On Jan. 17, UB announced Athletic Director Allen Greene would be taking over as athletic director at Auburn University in Alabama. During Greene’s time, UB’s teams had very few losing seasons and many of the weaker teams improved. In particular, Greene helped lead both the women’s and men’s basketball teams along with the football team to some of their most successful years in program history. Under Greene, UB won seven MAC Tournament trophies and sent four teams to the NCAA tournament. He also spearheaded the planning for the $18 million Murchie Family Fieldhouse, scheduled for completion in spring 2019.
Greene took over for Daniel White, who accepted an offer at the University of Florida in 2015, after just three years at UB. White’s most well known contribution is the New York Bulls Initiative, an effort that emphasizes “New York” in all capital letters on UB sports teams’ jerseys. The benefit of hiring young, ambitious athletic directors like White and Greene is they want to make a name for themselves and initiate big projects that put UB Athletics on the map and lead to major improvements in terms of actual gameplay and wins. This attracts new students –– and new money –– to the athletics department. Managing finances is a big component of an athletic director’s job, and after four teams were cut last year due to budgetary concerns, money is certainly something at the forefront of every student athlete’s mind. But the major drawback is these younger athletic directors view UB
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as a stepping stone to more lucrative positions at Division I schools like UCF and Auburn, and they do not stay to see their projects through. It promotes a bad culture at UB if we aren’t promoting people who are staying loyal to the university. An in-house candidate like interim Athletic Director Kathy Twist might not be looking to make huge sweeping changes, but would offer a sense of consistency that the athletics department has lacked in recent years. She knows the ins and outs of UB Athletics, and might have more of an investment in UB than someone who views it as an intermediary position. Since 2012, Twist has been UB’s senior associate athletic director for sports administration in which she served as the sports supervisor for men’s tennis, women’s soccer, men’s and women’s track and field, men’s and women’s cross country as well women’s volleyball and softball. Twist is beloved by student athletes and frequently spotted at games. She has an existing relationship with juniors and seniors, which any outside hire would obviously lack. Presumably, Twist would be here for the long haul, offering UB Athletics the consistency and con-
My study abroad experience
ERIK TINGUE ASST. FEATURES EDITOR
I am known for not being aware of my surroundings and lacking common sense, so taking a class in a different country never crossed my mind until I visited the study abroad fair last fall. At first, I was terrified and unsure if I wanted to study abroad. I
wasn’t sure if I could afford it, and the thought of traveling alone far away from home was scary. But I’ve always wanted to experience a different culture in another country. I decided to enroll in a winter break study abroad course called London: Sociology of Food. It was the best decision I have ever made. Going to London is like stepping into to another world. Everybody drives on the opposite side of the road, the language is obviously different, the food and beverages are healthier, the social norms are not the same. And fortunately, they do not have a deranged lunatic running their country who tweets at 3 a.m. London was loaded with places to go and sights to see, which made it almost impossible to discover every exciting destination. But I was
still able to visit the tourist hot spots like Abbey Road, Buckingham Palace and London Bridge. I also got to try exotic new foods I never imagined I would try. Crocodile was the most satisfying food I ate; it tasted like chicken. Sea urchin, on the other hand, was by far the worst thing I tried. The texture reminded me of watery sand and it was hard to swallow without gagging. Another foreign delicacy I tried was British tea, and it definitely lived up to the hype. The sweetener and taste made me feel warm and gave me a boost of energy for the day. I felt like I could accomplish anything. Even though we were required to go to class and take field trips to different grocery markets and museums, I still had a lot of free time to explore London. My friends and I took a flight to Amsterdam. Transportation in Eu-
tinuity it has lacked in recent years. Greene was a unique hybrid of an in-house hire and new blood: White brought him on as deputy director of athletics and Greene was obviously being groomed to eventually step into the athletics director position. Twist likely will not take strokes as bold as her predecessors, but would bring their large initiatives into fruition. Some editors feel this loyalty and consistency is preferable to the grand gestures of directors past. While it is not ideal to have directors coming and going, other editors feel this keeps the program from stagnating and is a factor in the huge improvements in recent years. email: opinion@ubspectrum.com
rope is smooth and easy, so taking a long weekend excursion to the Netherlands was a no-brainer. We got high in Amsterdam in more ways than one; from visiting one of Amsterdam’s smoking cafes to hitching a ride on the highest swing in Europe. I have a fear of heights, so being 328 feet in the air was horrifying. We also went to the Heineken Museum, the Anne Frank house and the Red Light District. Saint Augustine once said, “The world is like a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.” My experience studying abroad was beyond anything I imagined and I am so grateful I took full advantage of doing it here at UB. I made long-lasting friendships and I would encourage everyone to embrace these opportunities to travel and study in a different country. email: features@ubspectrum.com
NEWS
Page 4 | The Spectrum
UB football player’s lawsuit moved to higher court CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Thore and Schneiderman denied Lippes’ claims in their response to his petition, court documents show. They argued that UB acted lawfully and said the court does not have the authority to overturn its decision unless the petitioner can prove it was made “capriciously or arbitrarily.” They also said the court must give the determinations of the administrative agency –– in this case, the office of student conduct and advocacy –– “great deference.” Thore declined to comment for this story. Several attempts to reach Schneiderman were unsuccessful. UB spokesperson John Della Contrada said the university does not comment on pending litigation. If the court decides in Lippes’ client’s fa-
vor, it could also instruct UB to change its policies and allow students representation, a decision that could have statewide and even national impact. UB administrators have said that UB’s code of conduct is based on national “best practices” and is meant to offer students and administrators flexibility. Like UB, many colleges and universities allow students an adviser throughout the disciplinary process, but don’t allow the adviser to speak on the student’s behalf during hearings. At Stony Brook University, for instance, the code of student conduct allows students an adviser but the adviser cannot “engage in any verbal presentation or questioning,” according to the school’s website. “Attorneys may serve as advisers to the parties subject to the same conditions and re-
UB prepares for peak flu season CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Fifty-three flu-related pediatric deaths have been reported nationwide by the Cen-
ter for Disease Control and Prevention so far this flu season, which is expected to be one of the worst flu seasons of the decade.
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY ELIJAH PIKE, THE SPECTRUM
A vaccination syringe held by a UB student. Student Health Services has administered over 1,000 vaccinations to registered UB students.
New year, new cups
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION / JACK LI, THE SPECTRUM
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Vincent Manuella, a freshman aerospace engineering major, isn’t bothered by the change in sizes, even if the price is the same. “I know it holds a few ounces less than the old cups, but it’s not that big of a difference to me personally,” Manuella said. “I’m sure some people would have something to say about that, but I’m perfectly fine with it. I usually drink water, honestly, so I don’t get a fountain drink [when I use meals], but when I do, the size doesn’t concern me much.” Manuella, who sometimes struggled with the old CDS fountain cups, views the new sturdiness of the plastic cups as a positive change. “I thought the old cups were a little bit flimsy. If they sat for too long, they got wet and soggy as paper does, but otherwise they functioned for their purpose,” Manuella said. “For the new cups, trying to put the lids on they tend to collapse if you’re not careful but otherwise they’re more sturdy. They’re definitely more reliable than the old cups.” Other students like Matt Seganti, a freshman
Four comedians to share SA’s Comedy Series CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Fellow SNL writer Seidell will also be making an appearance on the Friday night. Seidell rose to fame as a cast member on CollegeHumor’s online skits. From there, the comedian’s “Prank Wars” series went viral, leading him to host MTV’s “Pranked.” SA Entertainment Director Matt Cosmai said SA is excited about the diversity in the show’s lineup. “These are four very talented comedians, each of whom bring something different to the table. There’s really something for
everyone to enjoy,” Cosmai said. Cosmai was unable to disclose the Comedy Series’ budget at time of inquiry. Last year’s comedy series, which took place in Alumni Arena and starred Trevor Noah, cost $110,000 to produce. Cosmai said he anticipates tickets being available in early March. Students will be able to register for tickets online in order to pick them up in person at the SBI Ticket office. email: brenton.blanchet@ubspectrum.com
Thursday, February 8, 2018
strictions,” the website says. At nearby SUNY Buffalo State College, the code of conduct advises students that they may be provided a “conduct advocate” free of charge, but these conduct advocates “do not serve as legal counsel, and do not have the ability to address members of a College Hearing Board on behalf of their student.” UB students from an on-campus Civil Liberties Union chapter brought up the issue of student representation to President Satish Tripathi in September. But the Student-Wide Judiciary is not a court of law, and thus does not need to follow courtroom procedures, administrators say. A New York State court has ruled in the past that an agency must allow people the right to representation. In a February 2016 ruling, the Supreme Court Appellate Division found that due process considerations “require only that a party to an administra-
tive proceeding be afforded the opportunity to be represented by counsel” in a case filed against the New York City Environmental Control Board. The case cited the New York State Administrative Procedure Act, which reads, “Any person compelled to appear in person or who voluntarily appears before any agency or representative thereof shall be accorded the right to be accompanied, represented and advised by counsel.” Lippes said he is hopeful for a favorable ruling. “I know my client hopes some good will comes from this case – not only him having his decision overturned, but in general, helping the rights of students,” he said. “I guess I should just add that those rights already exist. They’re just not being afforded to students.”
If it follows the typical cycle, cases of the flu will peak at UB within the next few weeks, said Susan Snyder, director of the UB student health services. “This trend occurs due to the influx of students returning to campus from all over the globe as well as the incubation period of the influenza viruses,” Snyder said. However, after a relatively quiet flu season in the fall with no positive influenza tests or clinician-diagnosed influenza until after the fall semester, the number of cases of flu diagnosed at the Student Health Services is consistent with previous years, Snyder said. Still, the number of flu cases in New York State as a whole is increasing, consistent with national reports. As of Jan. 27, there were 11,683 laboratory-confirmed influenza reports in New York, which was a 50 percent increase over the previous week, according to the New York Department of Health. Katherine Thompson, a junior chemistry and sociology major, said she got her flu shot a few weeks ago when Wegmans and the Student Health Services sponsored a flu vaccination clinic in the Student Union. She said the shot was relatively painless and she hasn’t had any signs of illness. Thompson said she believes people should get the vaccination.
“It’s not just about you and the needle going into your arm or maybe the sniffles you get afterwards,” Snyder said. “It’s about getting a worse cold. It’s about protecting everyone else around you.” Less than 40 percent of college students receive a flu shot, the National Foundation of Infections Disease found in a May 2016 paper, even though doctors suggest the shot severely lowers the chances of contracting an infection. The paper also said an average college student who gets the flu will experience illness for eight days or more. Student Health Services has not scheduled any flu-shot clinics for the spring semester, but students can still call to make an appointment to get a flu vaccine, as long as supplies last. Snyder urged students who feel sick with flu-like symptoms to isolate from others until they are fever-free for at least 24-hours, without the use of fever-reducing medicines, to prevent the spread of influenza. She also said students can prevent the spread of the flu by covering their noses and mouths with tissues when coughing or sneezing, washing their hands often and avoiding touching their eyes, noses or mouths.
mechanical engineering major, thought the cups held more liquid than the old cups until The Spectrum informed him they were smaller. “I think I pay enough to go to this school and I don’t like the fact I have to pay the same for less, even if it’s cups,” Seganti said. “I do think the new cups look better and if they are recyclable, I can lose the two ounces. None of the cups I had last semester broke down on me, but the new ones definitely look cooler.” The new look was conceived after CDS’ Student Advisory Board provided feedback on the cup and took note of the recyclable and reusable nature, according to Kohl who said the last change to CDS fountain beverage cups came between 2008-2009. Manuella thinks the new cup’s recyclable material is beneficial, even though students may not go out of their way to find recycling bins on campus. “It’s excellent, especially for recycling drives going on [on campus], but the old cups I would imagine would be a little bit more biodegradable. However, I can see the
wax [on the old cup] prohibiting that,” Manuella said. Some students like Gemini Zajac, a sophomore theatre major, said the plastic cups don’t contribute to environmental decline and thinks the old cups especially became problematic in the cold weather. “It was quite bad and when you gripped the old cups from the top,” Zajac said. “It was hard to get the tops on, so I was not a fan. The new cups are pretty and a lot easier to manage. They are definitely easier to manage and not as much condensation appears on the outside of the cups.” Zajac doesn’t think much about the trimmed down size of the cup, despite the price being the same. “I don’t think it’s that big of a deal that they’re smaller,” Zajac said. “It’s almost kind of helpful because I almost feel like I have to finish everything in my cup. It’s a little more healthier for me and everyone else who drink out of the cups.”
email: sarah.crowley@ubspectrum.com
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email: benjamin.blanchet@ubspectrum.com
UB engineering professor sues former school Javid Bayandor is suing Virginia Tech University on claims he was discriminated against SARAH CROWLEY SENIOR NEWS EDITOR
Aerospace and mechanical engineering professor Javid Bayandor is suing his former employer, Virginia Tech University for $5 million, alleging he was denied tenure because of discrimination related to disability and his Iranian background. Bayandor, who joined UB’s department of mechanical and aerospace engineering last year, declined to comment for
this story. Virginia Tech University did not respond to requests for comment. The claim, which Bayandor’s attorney Tommy Strelka filed last week, alleges the committee overseeing his renewal never offered a reason for his tenure denial. Bayandor was in a car crash in 2011 that “caused significant, permanent damage to his spine, nervous system, and left shoulder,” according to the lawsuit. Because of these injuries, he requested an extension on his tenure clock, which he received. Bayandor alleges he was unfairly required to provide an updated status report of his work for review. email: sarah.crowley@ubspectrum.com
Thursday, February 8, 2018
FEATURES
The Spectrum | Page 5
Highlighting what's important Student creates speech recognition app, highlights keywords in lectures BRENTON J. BLANCHET SENIOR ARTS EDITOR
Arthur De Araujo has improved on pen and paper with his most recent iOS application, Lecture Buddy. The app translates the lecture into text by using a continuous speech recognition program. Students can enter keywords to look for in the text, such as “important,” “remember” or any word of choice. Once the app is done translating, it locates where in the text the professor says a specific word and highlights the sentence or paragraph. This allows students to see what sections of the lecture are most important and contain specific words to help them study. “We’re still using pen and paper, which is ancient,” said De Araujo, a sophomore computer science major. “There has to be a better way.” De Araujo came up with the idea in December and began production in January. He couldn’t find anything similar on the market and said he’s the first to incorporate speech recognition and the highlighting of keywords.
Liam Gensel, a junior computer science major, has also worked on past projects with De Araujo and uses Lecture Buddy. He sees it as a useful tool. “It’s something that I wish I had earlier on in my college career, especially in big gen-ed classes where you just get bombarded with information,” Gensel said. “I love being able to record my lectures and if I miss something important, the app will pick up on it for me. Personally, I still take notes on pen and paper, but I use the app to supplement that, rather than replace it.” De Araujo said Lecture Buddy is meant for those who may have problems paying attention in class, but its goal isn’t to deter students from paying attention. He doesn’t want the app to replace notetaking completely, but he hopes that it gives students the boost they need, especially students with developmental disorders. De Araujo submitted Lecture Buddy into the SPARK Mobile App Contest, a challenge to create an app that can help support individuals with autism spectrum disorder. “I think Lecture Buddy definitely has the potential to support people with autism and that’s why I enrolled it [in the contest],” De
Araujo said. “It can help students learn better and I also thought if they may have some attention problem this would help with that. They wouldn’t need to be as attentive while note taking.” The app does still have problems. Although the app itself runs smoothly, its speech recognition feature can occasionally be faulty. Lecture Buddy may pick up words incorrectly depending on the professor’s speech or other noise in the room. The app works well in a silent room, but in a crowded lecture hall it may miss words or pick them up incorrectly with the iPhone’s built-in microphone. Attaching a better microphone to the phone can help minimize problems, according to De Araujo. De Araujo also sees possible legal issues with the app as well, and fears students recording professors without consent. The app-maker still thinks it’s important to check in with an instructor before using Lecture Buddy in the classroom. Declan Hopkins, a junior computer science major, has worked with De Araujo on past projects and sees the significance of his
MADISON MEYER, THE SPECTRUM
Arthur De Araujo, sophomore computer science major, poses next to the icon for his Lecture Buddy app. The app translates a lecture into text and highlights important keywords.
most recent. “I think the app is a cool idea, and executed well,” Hopkins said. “I think it has the potential to help many students who have trouble taking meaningful notes.” Lecture Buddy is available on the App Store for free. email: brenton.blanchet@ubspectrum.com
Filmmaker Sal Natale explores link with Jewish faith and sexuality UB ‘17 alum to be featured in the 33rd Annual Buffalo International Jewish Film Festival BENJAMIN BLANCHET SENIOR FEATURES EDITOR
Sal Natale didn’t know much about the Jewish faith before this summer when he travelled to Israel for the Jerusalem Film Workshop. The Department of Media Study graduate was the only person on his team of filmmakers who did not speak any Hebrew. Natale learned about the faith and culture during his time in Israel, which influenced his latest film, “How to Ride an Elevator on Shabbat.” The short documentary about a gay man of Jewish faith and his struggle to reconcile the two lifestyles will be screened at the 33rd Annual Buffalo International Jewish Film Festival. “It was an interesting, thought-provoking short documentary,” said Yoni Collins, a Toronto film producer and workshop participant. “Religion versus sexuality is always a controversial and difficult topic to tackle, but [Natale] and the other filmmakers did it with delicacy and created a really beautiful, heartbreaking look at [the topic] on a personal level.” Natale’s team of four, as part of the sixweek long film workshop, wanted to touch on sexuality in the Hasidic Jewish faith but
TAKING THE R CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
9. BIO 344 - Neuroethology & BIO 402- Advanced Cell and Developmental Biology I
BIO 344 and BIO 402 were the most resigned courses in the Department of Biological Sciences. Neuroethology, or the evolutionary and comparative approach to the study of animal behavior and its mechanistic control by the nervous system, had an enrollment class of 21 students and saw three resignations, or 12.5 percent. Todd Hennessey, professor of biological sciences who taught the course last fall, did not respond to requests
was unsure how to approach it during its short trip. After settling on a concept about the LGBTQ community in Jerusalem, they looked to find their subject. Nadav Shwartz is a member of Jerusalem’s Open House for Pride and Tolerance and the subject of the documentary. He advocates for the acceptance of homosexuality in the Jewish religion, according to Natale. “When [Shwartz] goes to talk with religious leaders, he is working with them to try to get the gay lifestyle more inclusive and acceptable in Israel,” Natale said. “His big thing is it’s not ‘can’ but ‘how’ can you be gay and be Jewish. When you ask can you be gay while having a Jewish faith, the answer is no. When you turn ‘can’ into ‘how,’ that’s when they started looking at it different.” The film’s title reflects Shabbat, which is a day of rest and abandonment of work. On Shabbat, members of the Jewish faith are prohibited from using cars and electricity. “There is a Shabbat elevator,” Natale said. “Even though it’s not the most efficient, it will get to the 17th floor of a building eventually, so the question is it’s not ‘can’ you use an elevator on Shabbat, it’s ‘how’ do you use an elevator on Shabbat.” “That’s the correlation he wanted to ap-
for comment. Advanced Cell and Developmental Biology I, a class that covers major themes in cell and developmental biology, had the same number of enrolled students, resigns and final resignation rate of 12.5 percent. Ronald Berezney, professor of biological sciences, who taught the course last fall, did not respond to requests for comment. 10. COM 300 - Written Communication & COM 101- Principles of Communication
Written Communication is an upper-division theoretical course that covers the practice of written communication and emphasizes basic writing skills. Andrew Sachs, visiting instructor of communication, taught the course last fall. Sachs explained the course relies on the students’
COURTESY OF SAL NATALE
(L-R) Jonathan Meiri (cinematographer), Hannah Skolnick (director), Sal Natale, and Arielle Granof (editor and sound operator) helped create “How to Ride an Elevator on Shabbat.” The documentary, produced by Natale, will be screened at the Buffalo International Jewish Film Festival.
proaching the ‘how,’ to have an inclusive lifestyle being gay and upholding the Jewish faith.” Jordana Halpern, the director of cultural arts at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Buffalo, said the Jerusalem Film Workshop approached her film festival to support program participants. After learning Natale would be involved, Halpern reached out to the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies, who considered Natale for the festival and offered to contribute a sponsorship. “We have the highest regard for the Jerusalem Film Workshop and Festival and we’re thrilled that as a result, Sal’s film, ‘How to
Ride an Elevator on Shabbat,’ will be part of our festival,” Halpern said. “Sal is a talented filmmaker who was clearly influenced by his time in Israel with the Jerusalem Film Workshop and we’re excited to see what he creates next.” Natale, who started his filmmaking YouTube channel Film Lyfe this year, hopes his film exposes people immersed in Western culture to a bigger view of the world. The film will play at the Dipson Amherst Theatre on March 11 and 14.
prior experience with writing instruction and the goal of the course is for them to develop expertise as essay writers. Sachs said he is concerned with reports like the The Pew Foundations’ literacy report which said recent college graduates from major public universities such as UB are rated low in literacy and he fears students do not receive adequate writing experience in college. Out of the three students that resigned his class of 25, Sachs said some simply do not wish to accept the challenge.
wood, a communication student who taught the section was not available for comment. Emel Abibula, a sophomore management major, previously took this course in a different section. Abibula said the chapter topics were “very broad” and there was a lot of material to absorb for a basic level course. “I think people might resign this class because it requires a lot of work and we had to do seven extra hours of out-of-class studies and multiple papers to get a decent grade,” Abibula said. “It is hard to get a good grade and it’s not worth it for students who take it as an elective.”
Principles of Communication, a entrylevel course covering basic communication models, theory and research methods used in communication, saw a resignation rate of 11.1 percent in section C. Katy A. Under-
email: benjamin.blanchet@ubspectrum.com
*Haruka Kosugi contributed reporting email: anna.savchenko@ubspectrum.com
SPORTS
Page 6 | The Spectrum
Thursday, February 8, 2018
The big three Upperclassmen carry wrestling team during program’s toughest season DANIEL PETRUCCELLI SPORTS EDITOR
UB has wrestled the toughest schedule in program history, facing four top-25 teams already, including two top-five programs. The team will be heading to Pennslyvania this month to face the number one team in the nation, the Penn State Nittany Lions. The Bulls are just weeks away from the end of their season and it has been a down year for the team. The schedule has been hard for the Bulls who are 0-4 in their top25 matchups this season. Head coach John
Stutzman said the team has consistency from their veterans, but the younger wrestlers need to work on their approach and “buy-in” to what the program is trying to accomplish. “Our big three are still doing what they need to do like always, and then we’re just inconsistent throughout the rest of the lineup and it costs us wins to be quite honest with you,” Stutzman said. “I think we should have been further along this year than where we’re at, … just the level of buy-in from some of these guys has to be greater.” The big three he’s referring to are redshirt
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juniors, 125 lbs. Kyle Akins, 133 lbs. Bryan Lantry and 285 lbs. Jake Gunning, who all arrived together at UB. The three wrestlers have combined for 159 wins in their time here as well as four NCAA tournament appearances; Gunning claimed last year’s MAC title in the heavyweight division. While the future will rely on underclassmen, this season rests mostly on the shoulders of Gunning, Akins and Lantry. All three have recorded individual victories in duals with top-25 teams and have wins over wrestlers ranked individually in the top 25. Stutzman identified them as the program’s biggest leaders during his time with Buffalo. He said because of the program’s struggles when they first arrived, these wrestlers and the other juniors and seniors have a greater understanding of where this program has come from. All three wrestlers had to redshirt through their first year here because of a postseason ban placed on Buffalo from the previous coaching staff. “[The big three] came in with the mentality that they wanted to change things and they changed it for the better,” Stutzman said. “But some of the new guys don’t understand where it was, so they’re not progressing as fast as they should. The younger guys are a little spoiled. A new locker room comes in and they didn’t have to grind like some of these other guys.” Gunning said the new guys came in as bluechip prospects so they are not used to being the underdog, something he said Buffalo will always be no matter how it fairs in matches with top programs. He said that he, along with Lantry and Akins, have been trying to get these guys to get a chip on their shoulder. Some underclassmen have adopted this mindset. Redshirt freshman, 174 lbs. Cameron Caldarelli, feels like some members of the team are wasting their time in practice and it’s keeping the team from improving. Caldarelli said too many players come in to do what the team refers to as “just getting a sweat,” when wrestlers come in and wrestle around, but don’t seem focused or work on the areas they need to improve. “I just feel like a lot of people are coming without a purpose,” Caldarelli said. “If you come in the room and hit something you don’t usually hit in a match, what was your whole point of coming in to do something you’re never gonna do in a real match?”
COURTESY OF PAUL HOKANSON/UB ATHLETICS
(top) Redshirt junior Bryan Lantry goes for a single leg takedown. Lantry is currently ranked no. 15 for the 133-pound weight class by intermatwrestle.com. (bottom) Redshirt junior Jake Gunning takes down an opponent. Gunning is the reigning MAC champion in the heavyweight division.
Some of the veterans have said the younger guys don’t seem to have the same enthusiasm about their level of competition this season. Gunning said the level of competition has helped with his growth and progress, but some guys have been hurt by it because they don’t have the same expectations of themselves. “We had guys in the offseason that said they were ready, said they wanted to do it but when push came to shove, some guys just didn’t step up,” Gunning said. “We’re not looking for talkers; we’re looking for guys that want to go out on that mat and wrestle ungodly hard and compete at a high level.” email: daniel.petruccelli@ubspectrum.com
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The Spectrum | Page 7
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Page 8 | The Spectrum
SPORTS
Bulls beat Kent State 80-42 Bulls win handily at home THOMAS ZAFONTE SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR
It only took the women’s basketball team one quarter to build up a strong lead in a one-sided win over the Kent State Golden Flashes on Wednesday night. Senior center Cassie Oursler led the team in both scoring and rebounds with 19 points and 14 rebounds. Freshman guard Hanna Hall had a career high 12 points in the game and shot a perfect 4-4. This was the Bulls’ widest margin of victory this season at 38 points. “When they come together they can knock people out,” said head coach Felisha Legette-Jack. “I just think sometimes we go out there and allow a team to be in a game with us. I think this game we never saw our opponent. We saw what we were good at, what we had to do and things we could offer the game, and I think the fans had fun.” The Bulls (18-4, 9-2 MAC) exchanged baskets and misses in the early goings with both teams getting used to each other. It wasn’t until the final three minutes of the period that the Bulls had 14 unanswered points to take a 25-9 lead. The Golden Flashes (1113, 4-8 MAC) played better on defense in the second quarter, but still weren’t enough to stop the Bulls from building on their lead to 41-23. The Bulls used strong passing all game to set up their shots on the perimeter. Oursler, junior guard Cierra Dillard, and sophomore forward Summer Hemphill all had 10 points by the end of the half. The Bulls expanded their lead to 56-32 in the third. Oursler recorded her tenth rebound of the game in the quarter marking her fifth double-double of the season. “My team makes it so easy for me out there,” Oursler said. “I hope my performance gives my team more confidence that I can put in the shots they give and know I will get it off the glass.”
The Bulls played fast all night, making quick breaks and playing solid in transition. Legette-Jack’s biggest concern is how the team played against the 2-2-1 scheme in the second quarter, preventing the players from charging the basket. Yet, she said the team addressed those issues when it came back for the second half. Both Legette-Jack and the team were hoping to play more fast-paced offense as they did early this season. LegetteJack said she felt they came close Wednesday night. The Bulls led in scoring every quarter with a one sided 25-9 scoring difference in the first and a 24-10 difference in the fourth. Not every player had success in the second half though, as Dillard failed to make a basket in the second half, ending the game with 10 points. Senior guard Stephanie Reid had 9 points, a team high 8 assist and 0 turnovers and also led the team from the guard position. “I think I struggled to push the pace early and that is something I need to improve on,” Reid said. “Honestly, it is not about me. It is about the performance of the team, and today I think we had a really great team win. Everyone showed up to do what they do best.” With this win, the Bulls stay atop the MAC East Division and two games behind conference leader the Central Michigan Chippewas (19-3, 11-0 MAC). They currently hold the top division spot three games ahead of the Miami of Ohio Redhawks (15-8, 7-5 MAC). Legette-Jack has seven games left in the season and is hoping to improve upon the team she has, perhaps even looking more towards the bench after Hall’s strong performance. The Bulls’ next game is on Saturday in an away game against the Redhawks with tipoff scheduled for 1 p.m. email: thomas.zafonte@ubspectrum.com
Thursday, February 8, 2018
Bulls win second straight, beat Chippewas 88-82 Harris and Jordan combine for 40 points THOMAS ZAFONTE SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR
The men’s basketball team did not win off defense Tuesday night, but held on to its lead despite a late game surge from the Central Michigan Chippewas. “A game like that could easily have been won by 20 points and we almost gave it up thanks to mental lapses,” said head coach Nate Oats. “We won this game because of our offense.” Junior guard Jeremy Harris was the team’s top scorer with 22 points. Junior guard CJ Massinburg had an all-around performance, scoring 18 points along with seven rebounds and three assists. The first half saw the Bulls (18-6, 10-1 Mid-American Conference) control a small lead as they outperformed in scoring, rebounds and assists at the end of the half. Oats and players said the team spent the first half figuring out the Chippewas’ fast pace. The Chippewas (15-9, 4-7 MAC) were able to keep the score close at 37-29 with help from sophomore guard Kevin McKay shooting 5-5 during the half. In the second half, the Bulls controlled the action for the first 14 minutes, getting the lead up to 18 points. With six minutes left, the Chippewas came alive, scoring nine unanswered points to make it 72-63. “We really let up on defense at the six minute mark, which really undid the good work we did on both sides,” said Oates. Senior Chippewas forward Cecil Williams scored 21 points in the second half after only having one basket in the first half. The second half was all Buffalo un-
defensive mentality Men’s basketball team looks to improve defensive play with seven games left
THOMAS ZAFONTE SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR
If you look at the Bulls from a perspective outside the team, they would look like the top team in the Mid-American Conference. They are first in the conference and east division, on pace to break the school’s points per game record and have a win over the west division leader. All signs point to the Bulls as MAC Championship bound. But head coach Nate Oats doesn’t see a championship team yet. He sees issues. “We got games where we are up 20 –– almost 30 points –– and we almost always blow the lead and then struggle to get the win or sometimes lose,” Oats said. “We are good on defense but if we are going to be at our best, we have to work out these defensive lapses.” Despite the team’s success this season, both Oats and players say the team needs to work on these lapses if it is going to play to its full potential. In their past four games, the Bulls (186, 10-1 MAC) have seen double digit leads dwindle in the final ten minutes. The Bulls lost their first conference game during this
JACK LI, THE SPECTRUM
Sophomore guard Davonta Jordan pushes in the paint for a layup. Jordan and the Bulls are hoping to fix mental lapses so they can hold on to leads better in late game.
four game stretch, losing to the Kent State Golden Flashes 79-82 (12-12, 6-5 MAC) after having a 68-55 lead with nine minutes left. “It only takes a team six minutes to undo 34 minutes of good basketball,” Oats said. “We have to work on these lapses because I know we will show up on offense.” Before the four close games, the Bulls had come off a nine game win streak that saw them win handily against some of the MAC’s best teams. Since Jan. 26 the Bulls have blown big leads in all their games and have gone 3-1. “We say in practice that anyone can score,” said junior guard Dontay Caruthers. “It is the guys in practice who can do [defensive] stops, who show up ready to go on defense that really impress.” Caruthers is coming off a recent leg in-
jury and returned to play on Jan. 19. Since his return he has struggled to produce the same offensive numbers he did earlier in the year. Caruthers has slowly been playing more minutes, while trying to get back to his previous level of play. Before the injury, Caruthers had several big scoring performances this season. Even after the injury, Oats still considers him one of Buffalo’s best defensive players. Caruthers said time drilling in practice and working on stops are going to help the team in its slump and help him get back into his rhythm. With the Bulls having seven season games left, they will have to work out these lapses sooner than later. Oats is still confident the team will be playing their best come tournament time, even with less than a month to the MAC Championship.
til the nine unanswered points. The Chippewas were able to outscore the Bulls 5351 in the half, but were unable to stop the Buffalo offense. It was senior guard Wes Clark’s free throws in the final seconds of the game that secured the win. “We played well; we just got issues out there that we need to get into practice and work on,” said sophomore guard Davonta Jordan. “Offense we can get it done; it is defense that has to be focused on.” The win marked the team’s seventeenth game this season with 80 or more points, but also marked the third straight game where Buffalo’s opponent scored more than 80 points. Even with the team’s defense struggling, the offense was still enough to keep its first place spot in the MAC conference. Both Clark and junior forward Nick Perkins scored in double-digits and had seven rebounds in the game. “We are a dangerous team, especially against these teams that rely so much on their guards and forwards to do the work,” Oats said. The Bulls have seven games left in the regular season and will need to win almost all of them to guarantee the top seed in this year’s MAC Championship Tournament. With the Toledo Rockets (17-7, 9-2 MAC) only a game and a half behind, the pressure is on the Bulls to hold the spot. “We all want to win these next seven games for the large bid and top seeding, but we are staying focused on playing the best basketball we can,” said junior guard Dontay Caruthers. The Bulls’ next game is Saturday against the Northern Illinois Huskies (10-14, 3-8 MAC) on the road. The Bulls beat the Huskies 95-67 in January. The tipoff for the game is set for 4:30 p.m. email: thomas.zafonte@ubspectrum.com
Oats said during his time with the Bulls he has seen lesser teams go on to be MAC Champions. Oats said those teams worked hard at the end of the year and came to the tournament playing their best basketball. He remains confident his current players have the right mentality to play at their highest potential. “We got to treat every game like a championship game no matter how good the team is,” said sophomore guard Davonta Jordan. “Every game is the biggest one and you expect every team at their best.” Jordan, a starter on the team, has turned into a solid guard, playing consistently. Jordan’s strong defensive play led him to a permanent starting position for the team. Both Jordan and Caruthers said the team has the potential to play just as strong defense as they do offense, but have been lacking finishing ability in their recent games. “I feel we have the two best defensive guards in the league in Jordan and Caruthers but that doesn’t make us great on defense,” Oats said. “We got to close games and hold a defensive intensity for 40 minutes.” The Bulls’ next game is against the Northern Illinois Huskies (10-14, 3-8 MAC) who are tied for last in the MAC conference with the Akron Zips (10-13, 3-8 MAC). “They are a team that plays really tight in the gaps and doesn’t let you get into the lane,” Oats said. “We are going to have to do a good job not turning the ball over against their defense.” When the Bulls played the Huskies earlier this season, they beat them 95-67 yet that does not give Oats any added confidence. Oats said he saw the Bulls run out of “fire power” last time and is not expecting the same result in the second game. The game is at Northern Illinois with tip off scheduled for 4:30 p.m. email: thomas.zafonte@ubspectrum.com