The Connector - April 11, 2017

Boston Herald editor-inchief talks about working in media â–ş Page 4

THE UMASS LOWELL

Serving the Student Body Since 1976

April 11, 2017

New off-campus housing site has UMass Lowell administrators on edge

In This Issue Adminstrators reflect on HESI policy

Andrew Sciascia

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Connector Editor

‘Nioh’ makes successful leap to PS4

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Women’s lacrosse continues to skid ► Page 11

Final River Hawk Scores Team

Score

Overall Record

Softball vs. UAlbany

W 9-8

12-15

Baseball vs. UAlbany

W 18-0

14-12

Men’s Lacrosse vs. Vermont

L 12-11 2-10

Women’s Lacrosse vs. UAlbany

L 15-4

6-5

How to make cow tongue tacos Amelia Hall

UMass Lowell Student

As students, all of us will endure an academic journey. Whether the destination leads to a career in medicine, engineering, business, or the arts, getting there will involve getting over a few bumps in the road. While we’re persevering through our endeavors, we mustn’t forget those who have guided us along the way and set us on the right path. When we lose sight of the path we’re going down, it is our teachers, coaches, and role models who guide us back. Along my own journey, one of the first professors that I met here at Umass Lowell has gone beyond the call of duty. Jose Martinez, an adjunct psychology professor, approaches psychology, as well as his students, in a unique and passionate manner.

During my first semester, I originally signed up for general psychology with another professor, but at the last moment a friend of mine recommended Dr. Martinez. My friend raved about how inspirational and impactful Dr. Martinez’s class was for her, until I knew I needed to switch in. On my first day joining the class, I expected Dr. Martinez to go over textbook readings or power point slides but instead we watched a video entitled “How to Make Cow Tongue Tacos.� As outlandish as this may sound, Dr. Martinez emphasized that no matter how bizarre a culture may

Just crossing the Bridge Street bridge into the heart of the city or driving down French Street, one can see the speedy development of a new “purpose built, student housing� facility on the water: Edge Merrimack River.

Throughout the 2016-17 academic year at UMass Lowell numerous students have come in contact with Edge Merrimack River marketing team. Nearly 100 students have even signed leases for the unfinished facility for the coming academic year.

A recent informational email from UMass Lowell’s Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs, Larry Siegel, to the UMass

Brock Johnson/Connector

The Edge Merrimack River construction site sits across from Lowell High School.

Lowell parents and students came with tones of warning to be weary of Edge Merrimack River. “The university does not endorse or have a relationship with Edge Merrimack River. On the contrary, we are

significantly concerned by its aggressive and irresponsible marketing of an ‘anything goes’ atmosphere boasting the lack of rules, regulations and supervision,� said Siegel in his email.

The email came as

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String Project performs in annual showcase Tim Clark Connector Staff

UMass Lowell’s String Project celebrated their 15th anniversary Tuesday at Durgin Hall with their annual spring showcase.

The event, presented as the “Spring Project Fiesta,� paid tribute to the festive music of Mexico, Central and South America, and Spain. The String Project has

different ensembles to cater to the skill levels of the musicians, ranging from beginner elementary school students to advanced high school string players.

The night started with heartwarming performances from the beginner classes playing songs such as “This Land is Your Land,� “Old MacDonanld� and “Do Re Mi� from “The Sound of Music.� The

â–ş See “Tacos,â€? page 2

Sections News.............................4 Campus Life..................8 A&E.............................. 6 Sports..........................10

a surprise to students and raised a series of questions about what was going on between UMass Lowell and Edge Merrimack River.

The development of Edge Merrimack River

Tim Clark/Connector

The String Project’s performance highlighted its 15th anniversary.

talented, young musicians were as excited as they were nervous when they took the stage, all donning ear-to-ear smiles.

UMass Lowell wind, brass and percussion players accompanied several of the groups. One of which, The String Sinfonia, a mid-level ensemble, played “Fiesta Tropicale,� an upbeat and exciting tune that had the crowd dancing and grooving along.

These performances were lighthearted and fun, highlighting the core beliefs of the String Project program.

The night continued and the Lowell Youth Orchestra took the stage with guest violinist Filip Pogady, a world-renowned musician who delivered an electric performance. The Lowell Youth Orchestra, accompanied by university wind, brass and percussion players, performed two pieces that were the canvas to Filip Podagy’s virtuosity.

His lightening fast fingers danced â–ş See “String Project,â€? page 6

UM ASS L OWELL C ONNECTOR

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April 11, 2017

April 11, 2017

OPINIONS & EDITORIALS Connector Editor

“Find Your Freedom.�

Chances are, if you have been active on the UMass Lowell campus this semester you have encountered Edge Merrimack River.

You’ve seen them tabling by our dining halls. You’ve heard their pitch.

And chances are, if you saw the email from Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Larry Siegel to parents on the topic of Edge Merrimack River, you know of the conflict that has been simmering between Edge and UMass in recent months.

What you may not know, however, could save you frustrations, a possibly negative living experience and money.

Edge Merrimack River may just be the shadiest, most predatory party attempting to sell off-campus housing to our student body.

The shadiness may just begin with the fact that they’ve marketed themselves to look like they’re a UMass Lowell property. They’ve allowed countless students to believe they are.

As assistant news editor for The Connector I had the opportunity to meet with the owner and developers of the Edge facility, Rick and Mary Shaffer, and Vice Chancellor Siegel separately to discuss the conflict this past week in a media capacity.

The following was my takeaway from the meeting sessions.

The difference was plain and simple. It could not have been made more clear. Edge Merrimack does not have the best interests of the student body in mind. They seemingly care only for their image and their pockets.

In the interest of full disclosure, there are deeds that must be brought to the attention of UMass Lowell students. In your time with them, Edge Merrimack has likely kept some key information from you.

The Lowell Sun has reported that Edge was recently issued an enforcement order for illegally dumping snow, and more importantly roofing debris, into the Merrimack River of late.

UMass Lowell and its students have long been known for their efforts to maintain an environmentally friendly, “green� campus. This is not something our student body is likely to appreciate or stand for, which explains the fact that they you have likely not been made aware.

In their marketing campaign, the Edge has twice been issued formal cease-and-desist orders from the UMass Lowell legal office.

One such order was issued for the illegal use of Rowdy the River Hawk in the marketing campaign. Edge Merrimack is not affiliated with the university and had no right to do so.

The second order was issued for soliciting on campus. Despite be-

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ing issued this order, you have likely noticed that Edge and its employees have not stopped dropping fliers all over campus illegally.

Edge Merrimack River has indicated that it would provide shuttle transport for residents, yet has not indicated how many shuttles would run or how often. Nor have they indicated where shuttles would make drops on campus.

With on-campus students already up in arms about university shuttle service, who is to say the Edge would be any better. And as it is located a solid 15-minute walk down-river this is a key matter for students.

Too many times Edge Merrimack River has been caught playing fast and loose with our students and with the university.

It is my hope that these misdeeds and miscommunications were made without negative intentions. But I am unconvinced.

In my meeting with Joel Burton, vice president of marketing and leasing, and the Shaffers, I felt personally disrespected as they slandered the university and underestimated the intelligence of its students.

Countless times throughout the meeting downright rude comments were made about how all the “spoiled� students want is “their own space,� and Edge Merrimack River was “teaching UMass Lowell how to market� and exposing them. Each

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OPINIONS & EDITORIALS

Verging on predatory: Edge Merrimack River’s shady marketing practices Andrew Sciascia

UM ASS L OWELL C ONNECTOR

disrespectful comment was one-upped moments later.

To make matters worse, each of these comments by Burton or the Shaffers was followed with a “You know‌ Off the record, of course.â€?

If Edge has nothing to hide, why are their higher ups looking to keep comments made to media “off the record.�

This is a frail attempt to keep the disrespect out of the public eye, attempting to ensure that their possible customers, your friends and classmates, won’t hear what is being said behind closed doors.

They want your patronage. They want you to spend money comparable to what you spend for on-campus housing for an untested facility that isn’t even completed yet. They don’t care if it effects your financial aid. It is simple; they will hide and misdirect to make every dollar they can.

I would like to believe differently, but I feel that the Shaffer’s have misread our student body, and in doing so disrespected us with a poorly targeted and, frankly, predatory marketing campaign.

The students of the UMass Lowell are not rich, spoiled brats with no brains and money to spend. They are a hard-nosed, hard-working, diverse and thoughtful bunch. It’s a shame Edge Merrimack River felt they could take them to the cleaners.

Letter to the editor: Empty promises, full graves Dear editor, President Trump recently made the short-sighted decision to launch 59 tomahawk cruise missiles at a Syrian air base controlled by the Bashar al-Assad regime. Officially, the strike is a reprisal for a chemical weapons attack by Assad that killed 80 Syrian civilians. Attacking the As-

sad regime is a reversal of Trump’s campaign promises opposing intervention in Syria and his more recent noncommittal response to the Assad’s use of chemical weapons on civilians.

The justification of using force to protect Syrian civilians seems especially hollow from Trump in light of his executive order barring im-

Justin Stumberg / U.S. Navy / Reuters

The USS Ross was one of two Navy destroyers that launched the attack on the Syrian air base.

migration of Syrian refugees and citizens from other Muslim-majority countries.

The decision to launch the missiles does not achieve the desired result of changing Assad’s policies or seriously challenging his grasp on Syria.

Furthermore, congress gave support for the strike only after it had occurred. Congressional approval is required for any military action that does not deal directly with a threat to the U.S. or one of its allies.

Trump is again defying established procedure for presidential authority in order to play the “man of action� for his supporters.

Unfortunately, most members of congress and the senate have focused on the failure to consult congress before the strike and gave at least reluctant support for action against Assad.

Previously, the U.S. government has backed rebel forces against the Russian-backed Assad regime while also participating in air strikes against

ISIS. Iran and other gulf state nations also have a stake in backing various rebel factions, sometimes coinciding with U.S. support, other times not.

Escalating military action towards an Iraq-style invasion or occupation is not in the best interests of either the U.S. nor the Syrian people. At present, there is no defined victory condition regarding changes in the Assad regime or construction of a new government. It would be foolish to engage in any military action that could provoke a proxy war with Russia or create a power vacuum for terrorist forces.

In summary, President Trump has contradicted his previous position on Syrian intervention, acted outside the bounds of the constitution, and escalated a complex civil war to provide political theatre.

Any money appropriated for bombing or invading Syria takes away from essential

programs at home such as the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Institutes of Health, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Trump’s 2018 budget proposal pushes for 54 billion dollars in increased military spending at the cost of major cuts to civilian agencies that provide life-saving services and grants to science, health and environmental preservation.

What does it say about our esteem for human life when we are willing to spend 50 million dollars to destroy an air base halfway around the world, but continue to deny the people of Flint, Michigan access to clean water?

I implore all concerned students to reach out to their senators and congressional representatives and urge them to oppose further military intervention in Syria.

Thank you, Alex DePalma

How to make cow tongue tacos â–ş Continued from front page

seem, it is these eccentricities and experiences that make up our psychology, and most of all, our identity.

Dr. Martinez shared with us his belief that the best type of learning lies beyond the textbook, through conversation and engagement. Relating research, relevant events, and personal anecdotes, he encourages his students to ask countless questions and connect what we learn to our own lives. By doing this we become more consciously aware and observant about the world and people around us.

To me, Dr. Martinez is more than just a professor: he is one of the most inspirational mentors I ever

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had. He took time out of his own schedule to work with me. He values teaching students the essentials to overcome challenges in life rather than only focusing on their grade at the end of the semester. Dr. Martinez goes beyond obligations when it comes to putting his students above everything else.

The best parts of psychology allow us to unearth parts of ourselves

that we never knew about.

Dr. Martinez wants what’s best for his students by bringing resolution into their lives, whether by listening to personal concerns, providing insight, or just giving a good laugh. It is teachers like Jose Martinez here at Umass Lowell that test our limits and make us look at the world in ways we never thought possible.

Accelerate Your Degree This Summer With UMass Lowell Courses Online or On Campus

Dr. Jose Martinez is an adjunct psychology professor at UMass Lowell.

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April 11, 2017

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Boston Herald editor-in-chief speaks about media Connector Staff

Joe Sciacca has been at the Boston Herald for thirty-four years, the last seven of which he has been the editor-in-chief. He was inspired to become a journalist when he witnessed the role the news made during the Watergate scandal.

On Tuesday, April 4, Sciacca, current editor-in-chief of the Bostin Herald came to speak in the lecture hall of UMass Lowell's O'Leary Library.

Over the course of his guest appearance, Sciacca covered a number of topics related to the press, most notably their role in dealing with President Donald Trump and what he perceives as problems that need to be fixed in the field of journalism.

At the beginning of the talk, Sciacca made it clear what his intentions were with his appearance at Lowell.

"I was interested in coming to speak to you today, not so much to speak to you but to speak with you, and... get some sense of what you think as younger people about how the press is covering President Trump, whether or not you have faith in that coverage, whether or not you think that coverage has credibility," said Sciacca. This dialogue between Sciacca and the attendees would come at the end of the talk when the platform was opened to

questions.

The talk started out with Sciacca talking about what the role of the press is. He said that the media is perceived as a fourth branch of the government and how he believes that journalists must be aggressive when it comes to politicians. "We're the [media] watchdogs," he said. "As far as I'm concerned, there's nothing that should be...off limits in terms of what you ask the president for a question."

"I'm concerned about the future of

the country, like any citizen, but as a journalist I'm really concerned about where the press will be in four years.

What [Trump's presidency] is doing to the news media. Donald Trump has declared war on the press... calling us enemies of the people and fake news," Sciacca said. He was quick to point out that Trump was not the first president to "declare war" on the press, citing Richard Nixon during the Watergate Scandal and Barack Obama's initial refusal to be on Fox News.

A point that was brought up about the media is how they carve out their viewers and what that means. Sciacca questions whether the way media is operating is about journalism and the importance of getting information to the people, or if it is more about marketing, ideologies and revenue, and that results in people not trusting the media. "A lot of Americans are starting to view the American press as not covering the resistance to Donald Trump, but being part of the resistance to Donald Trump."

Sciacca ended by sharing how he believed the media could regain credibility outside of their niche audiences. He said, "It's important for the press to understand what people that supported Trump are saying, understand what people who want Trump out right now are saying, and somehow find a way to provide news and information in some balance to the coverage that will inform people, will force spotlight on any wrongdoing and abuses, but will not play into this perception that you can't believe anything that you read in news organization reports; that news organizations have no credibility."

Marlon Pitter Connector Editor

When Vice Provost for Student Success Julie Nash first heard about the requirement for nursing students to score an 850 or greater on their Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) exams as a progression policy, it was not over the summer when the change was first put into place.

Instead, it was in January when a parent of a student dismissed from the nursing program called Nash directly with concerns about their future.

“I was very surprised to find that the school was dismissing students in otherwise good academic standing junior and senior year without another path,” said Nash. “That January was probably pretty terrible for a lot of our really good students, and that’s just too bad that that happened.”

While the nursing program has used HESI exams as factor in students’ final grades in specialty courses since 2004, according to College of Health Sciences Associate Dean of Student Success Deirdra Murphy, the elevation of the exam scores to a progression requirement this year – a move

intended to help improve the program – caused many otherwise successful students to be removed from the program.

Nash said she believes the unintended consequences of this implementation could have been avoided with more reviewing of the policy before it became official.

She said the policy never went through the Undergraduate Policy Committee – comprised of faculty from each college and staff from essential departments such as the Registrar’s Office – which could have identified potential pitfalls for nursing students. If a potential policy does not meet the standards of the Undergraduate Policy Committee, then it is sent back to the college it originated from for further revisions.

The School of Nursing announced the reversal of the HESI policy on March 8 and is reviewing students individually for reinstatement. While Nash said “some real damage was done” by this new standard, she gives credit to the nursing program for acting quickly to reverse it.

“I definitely applaud the nursing

Joe Sciacca defends media, especially during Donald Trump’s presidency.

UMass Lowell denies affiliation with Edge Merrimack began midway through last calendar year, and despite a myriad of issues surrounding the facility’s development and marketing, most students were unaware of the steadily growing stresses on Edge Merrimack River’s relationship with UMass Lowell and the possible dangers of leasing in their property.

“I honestly had no idea about any of it… I think a lot of people were just incredibly confused when they started marketing on campus,” said Daniel Rabin, sophomore engineering student.

Following Siegel’s warning, Edge Merrimack River’s owner and developers, Rick and Mary Shaffer, and Vice President of Marketing and Leasing Joel

said Burton.

Edge Merrimack River initially appeared to have been the victim of false statements and attacks by the university; they cited the reason for their dispute with UMass Lowell as being the university feeling threatened by competition in the way of housing.

Vice Chancellor Siegel, however, clarified that the claims were not an overreaction made out of spite, but truthful.

Siegel substantiated each and every claim with hard evidence. From Edge Merrimack River’s poor environmental history and lack of control over residents in other facilities to their shady, and at times Brock Johnson/Connector

“It was out of the blue...It actually caught us off guard.”

Edge Merrimack River is under construction and is expected to be complete by Fall 2017.

Burton held a meeting with local media to defend themselves against Siegel’s claims.

Throughout the meeting and tour of the mock-up apartment facility, the Shaffers and Burton stressed that despite their tagline, “Find Your Freedom, Live on the Edge,” Edge Merrimack River was a safe and secure facility that would benefit the students and “young professionals” residing there.

“It was out of the blue… It actually caught us off guard… All we ask from the university is to be on a sanctioned list of approved off campus housing,”

Administrators react on HESI policy, plan for student success in nursing program

Owen Johnson/Connector

►Continued from front page

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NEWS

NEWS

Owen Johnson

April 11, 2017

illegal, marketing strategies, Siegel had documents for each instance.

It appears Edge Merrimack River has engaged in countless less-than-honest practices. From ignoring cease-and-desist orders from the university legal team to prevent solicitation on campus to what may be the most important issue of all: dishonesty on the topic of financial aid.

"With the financial aid, there’s a six thousand dollar difference... They were leading students to believe, at first, that financial aid would cover the housing,” said Siegel.

Siegel’s biggest concern was with the fact that as an off campus housing facility students living at Edge Merrimack River would receive off campus financial aid, which is significantly less than on-campus aid, but be living in a facility with costs comparable to on-campus living situations.

Meaning that despite Edge Merrimack River’s claims that it is less expensive, or at least equivalent to, on-campus living it will become a financial burden for students when financial aid is accounted for.

Burton and the Shaffers made no mention of this, nor has Edge Merrimack River made any attempt to be transparent about the matter, simply redirecting curious students to UMass Lowell’s Solution Center.

“Affordability and financial aid are important matters... We weren’t really concerned about competition. Our residence halls were full. They’re full again. We don’t punch back. The only thing that I have done is send that letter, and there is not a thing that is not true in it,” said Siegel.

University officials expressed major concern for the student body and the possibility that they may be taken advantage of in the situation.

With the housing deadline passed the due date, the Office of Student Affairs assured that staff would work tirelessly to ensure that as few students as possible would be affected negatively.

“Our job is to protect the students, not fight with [Edge Merrimack River]. I’m personally upset because I am concerned about our students. I care about their safety. What disturbs us is that it feels like the students are likely to be the losers in this,” said Siegel.

Tufts Summer Session 2017

Explore. Prepare. Achieve.

Courtesy of UMass Lowell

Since repealing the “850 rule,” the School of Nursing is meeting with students who were dismissed from the program as a result of it to reinstate them.

faculty for recognizing their mistake and owning it and reversing it because sometimes it’s very hard for people to do that,” she said.

The School of Nursing held an open forum at O’Leary Library on Feb. 21 to discuss the HESI policy, where administrators and faculty were met with an uproar of concern from nursing students. It was not the only discourse about the policy between students and faculty, but it was effective enough to reverse the change two weeks later.

The College of Health Sciences and School of Nursing are now focusing on moving forward to improve student success.

The School of Nursing started working on this intention immediately by hosting two test-taking workshops for juniors and seniors. They took place Friday, March 31, and this past Friday.

“The university does care, and we will always try to do better.”

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According to Interim Dean Karen Melillo’s letter to nursing students and The Connector, HESI exams will be administered after each seven-week period with review sessions available to all students beginning in fall 2017.

Students who do not score an 850 on the HESI exams “will receive resources for success.”

In addition, Baccalaureate Program Director Laurie Soroken said she wants to help better prepare students to utilize the resources nursing stu-

dents have early in their undergraduate careers.

Through courses such as Strategies for Academic Success, HESI case studies and practice exams, and Don Anderson National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) exam reviews, Soroken said nursing students will continue to have a bevy of resources to succeed in the program.

However, the changes are not just for students, Murphy said. The nursing school will also provide resources to faculty to help them better support students as well.

“They’ve been doing it, but sometimes I think we have to realize there are different ways to support different students’ learning styles,” Murphy said. “We want to make sure we meet students where they’re at to be successful.”

In regards to any possible policy changes in the future, Soroken and Murphy said nursing faculty meet monthly with student representatives and will continue to do so to incorporate proper feedback.

Nash said she is pleased with how nursing students were able to have their voices heard and bring change to their program. “…We are just so proud of and impressed with the students who took a proactive approach, opened up a dialogue with their faculty,” said Nash.

“A few processes broke down. It’s not going to happen again. It won’t happen to students in any other programs, and we’ve learned. The university does care, and we will always try to do better.”

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April 11, 2017

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ‘Nioh’ brings the Samurai Spirit to PS4 Abram Spinney Connector Contributor

The year 2017 is looking to become a festive year in the world of gaming with an upcoming string of big titles such as the recently released Capcom’s “Resident Evil 7: Biohazard” and the new addition to the Mass Effect franchise “Mass Effect: Andromeda.”

Among these is a PlayStation 4 exclusive called “Nioh,” an action role-playing game from Team Ninja who are best known for the Ninja Gaiden series. The game has players assume the role of William, a man in possession of a guardian spirit named Saoirse who is soon stolen by an evil sorcerer named Edward Kelly. William follows Kelly arriving on the shores of Japan where he becomes entangled in a web of war, conspiracies and monsters.

“Nioh” takes much inspiration from the Dark Souls series by developers FromSoftware, who are well known for their intense and punishing difficulty. This includes several familiar gameplay mechanics such as players having to retrieve their collected experience points if their character dies.

However, even though it uses this and other mechanics from the Dark Souls games, “Nioh” still manages to bring several new elements of its own.

Unique gameplay, vast missions and raw combat take players of “Nioh” on an incredible journey with each challenge they face bringing them a step closer to saving Saoirse and facing Kelly.

As opposed to other role-playing games, players cannot create their own characters, but they can build William’s stats as they see fit as they gain levels which are obtained by collecting the game’s version of experience points called Amrita. These points are gathered by defeating enemies and finding many smaller sources scat-

tered across mission maps. They can also equip William with a variety of armor with each having their own bonuses to stats and fighting ability.

There are several weapons that William can wield: a katana, dual blades, spears, axes and the Kusarigama (sickle and ball chain) with secondary long range weapons being the longbow, rifle and hand cannon. Each melee weapon has their own strengths and weaknesses with a tree branch of

game’s controls such as switching between fighting stances as weapons not only have different advantages and disadvantages, but also play differently.

Another interesting mechanic is the guardian spirit, which are entities that grant an array of bonuses to William.

When enough Amrita (experience points) is acquired, the player can use a powerful technique called Living Weapon which allows William to

Courtesy of Koei Tecmo

“Nioh” began development in 2004 and was originally an adaptation of “Oni,” an unfinished film script written by legendary Japanese filmmaker Akira Kurosawa

skills they can unlock along with the ability to learn Ninjutsu skills, which are abilities like throwing shurikens, and using poison powders or Onmyo magic, which uses talismans to cast spells.

Combat is fast and requires the player to react quickly in each engagement that they face as any enemy, no matter what form they may take, is more than capable of sending William back to a starting point so players have to think on their feet to achieve victory.

The game also requires a bit of strategy as there are certain ways the player can approach to defeat an enemy because just simply rushing in can lead to disastrous results.

It takes a bit of time to learn the

fight with greater ferocity for a short period of time. This is useful in dire situations.

As the player progresses, they will encounter other historical figures who will at some point grant their own guardian spirit to them adding another powerful trump card that could help the player down the road.

There are many missions that have the player navigating through the area while fighting enemies and other obstacles put in their way. Most objectives require the player to reach the end of the stage where they must defeat that mission’s last challenge, which usually takes the form of a powerful boss.

All missions are re-playable allow-

ing the player to revisit past areas in order to seek out things they may have missed or just to experience everything again. However, there are elements such as level design and enemies that are recycled which can hamper the experience a bit and is commonly present in the side missions.

Even after completing the game and all of its missions, there is more offered to the player among these being a new game plus mode called “Way of the Strong.” In this mode, the difficulty is raised and makes enemies more aggressive and tougher than before while giving players the chance to get their hands on “divine” weapons which are more powerful than what could be found in the game’s standard difficulty.

The narrative of “Nioh” is probably one of its weaker points, as most of it is given to the player in pieces during each main mission. This is because it comes off as fragmented. It lacks a flow from one event in the story to the next.

There is also a lack of solid characterization. Despite being the game’s protagonist William has very little development. This also extends to the many characters he meets is as what is learned is then told to the player in either a character library, which contains a biography of the game’s entire cast, or in flashbacks. This as a result leaves a lot to be desired in the Show Don’t Tell department.

Aside from a few minor flaws, “Nioh” is a solid game that can stand alongside not just the Souls franchise, but the big titles coming out this year.

It is absolutely worth getting, especially for those who enjoy high difficulty gameplay with high risk for rewards stakes.

“Nioh” is available for the PS4 for $60.

String Project celebrates 15th anniversary ►Continued from front page across the violin’s neck and stunned the crowd. The ensemble played two moving pieces, “Havanaise” and “Carmen Fantasie,” which heavily featured solo violin improvisation.

The pure musicality coming out of the entirety of the ensemble was a sight and sound to behold.

Rich textures of harmonic motion topped with the incredible styling of Filip Podagy tugged at primal human emotion and held the crowd in a trance; expressions of awe and amazement covered the audience’s faces.

The performance ended in thunderous applause and cheers. UMass Lowell’s String Project did a phenomenal job in preparing their students and instructors for this celebratory evening.

The String Project is a music education and community involvement program that provides musical in-

struction to K-12 students across the Merrimack Valley. It seeks to enrich the lives of community members by

not only teaching them fundamentals of music, but also by encouraging them to develop a lifelong love

Marilyn Saha/UML Connector

UMass Lowell’s String Project was named the String Project of the Year in 2014 by the String Project Consortium.

for the arts and allowing them to sow deep-rooted relationships with other community members.

The program also provides first hand experience to university students in music education, allowing them to have the tools and skills they need to succeed in the real world.

The program will release a documentary titled “We’ve Got the World on a String” to commemorate their 15th year of providing excellence to the community. The documentary will show how being a part of the String Project positively influences the lives of its members not only in the classroom, but at home and in the music world as well.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Underrated classics: ‘Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior’ Owen Johnson Connector Staff

Before “Mad Max: Fury Road” came out in the summer of 2015, the unequivocal best film in the film series was “Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior,” and it is still close to being the best one.

In an apocalyptic wasteland following a decline in the amount of gasoline, a small group of survivors are being attacked by a gang of bandits. Trying to get some gasoline for himself, a rogue former police officer turned scavenger Max (Mel Gibson) agrees to help the community escape.

“Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior” feels like the movie director George Miller wanted to make with the 1979 film “Mad Max” but did not have the

budget to do it. Now that Miller has the necessary budget, he manages to take everything that worked about “Mad Max” and improve it and fix almost everything that was wrong with it.

Some of the technical elements of the movie are a little fuzzy. For example, the sound is occasionally soft and it is hard to hear what the characters are saying. Otherwise, the movie succeeds in the departments of choreography and cinematography.

The world that is created for the film to be set in is a unique one. It is a post apocalyptic world where society has collapsed because of the lack of gasoline. The only way to survive is to scavenge, the only way to scavenge is to drive, and the only way to drive is

Courtesy of Warner Bros Entertainment

“Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior” was the second film directed by George Miller.

Courtesy of Warner Bros Entertainment

Due to the original’s low sales, “Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior” was originally released in the US simply as “The Road Warrior.”

with gasoline, so it is literally the difference between life and death.

There are a few action set pieces scattered throughout the movie and all of them are well handled. “Mad Max 2” never shies away from the gritty and realistic take on the action it shows. There is nothing epic about it, nor is there any heroism from the characters. The action is handled relatively straight-forward: it is brutal, bloody and unceremonious, which is refreshing with how action scenes tend to get glorified.

All of the characters are fairly simplistic, but that actually works in the movie’s favor. While the main goal is survival, depth is not really an issue.

That is not to say the characters are unmemorable or boring, though. The apocalyptic wasteland provides a set-

ting for a number of interesting and eccentric characters, including the crazed Gyro Captain (Bruce Spence), the vicious Lord Humungus (Kjell Nilsson) and the Feral Kid (Emil Minty) who gives a look into how a new generation would grow up in the established world.

The only big problem, and it is not even glaring at that because of Spence’s on screen presence, is that a lot of the story revolving around the Gyro Captain is under explained. His character motivation seems off on a number of occasions, and the same can be said about a few character moments he has.

“Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior” is a movie that succeeds and excels because of its simplicity.

Final Grade: A-

‘Rise’ delivers the downside of the DAPL Katrina Desrosiers Connector Editor

Though the mainstream media coverage about the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) has slowed and construction has begun, Native American residents are still fighting to protect their sacred land.

To draw attention back to the fights indigenous communities in the U.S. and Canada face every day, TV network Viceland developed a documentary series called “Rise.” The premiere episode, “Sacred Water: Standing Rock, Part I,” features Sioux Tribe natives trying to protect their land from the addition of the DAPL. With creation of the pipeline underway, the Standing Rock Reservation sacred land in North and South Dakota is severely threatened.

The premiere starts with a group of Native Americans chanting: “What do we do when our water is under attack? Stand up, fight back.” “Water” is replaced with “people,” “land” and “lives” later on in additional chants.

The indigenous people have emotional ties to their land and this is clear in the episode; they aim to do anything they can to stop the progression of the pipeline.

In the show, 200 Native American tribes gathered at Standing Rock Reservation to peacefully protest against the DAPL, which was the largest mass

gathering of natives in over a century.

Sarain Fox, the host of “Rise,” visited Sacred Stone Camp at Standing Rock first in May 2016 and collected stories and information about the impact the DAPL would have on these indigenous communities. She visited again in August 2016 when the status of the pipeline changed, eventually leading the project to be approved.

black and white videos from the 1870s and Facebook Live videos.

One of these videos, shown in black and white, showcases something that is still prevalent today in these communities: the oppression children face in school. Fox found that many children are sent to boarding schools where they are abused physically and emotionally, which can lead to these

Courtesy of Viceland

As of April 4, the Dakota Access Pipeline has been completed and is ready for operation.

Viceland and host Fox accomplish a lot in just one episode of “Rise.” They are able to capture the raw emotion felt by these Native Americans and the struggles they have faced in the U.S. As a way to accompany the stories and experiences shared by those Fox interviewed, “Sacred Water” included eye-opening snippets from old

children abusing drugs and alcohol as they get older. She identifies this is a huge problem much of the Sioux Tribe has to cope with.

A more recently made video produced using Facebook Live is also powerful. In an effort to reach out to her community, Standing Rock resident Bobbi Jean “Three Legs” re-

corded the live video around the time when construction for the DAPL actually began. She was begging them to put down the alcohol and drugs just for one day to help protect their land.

Fox gathers many stories from the Standing Rock residents in the premiere episode of “Rise,” and in an effort to add to these accounts, the production of the show features exquisite scene transitions. There are horses roaming freely on open land, music produced by Native American tribes and other beautiful views of the Earth shown. By incorporating these transitions, “Rise” is indirectly saying that all of this beauty will be taken away and lost if DAPL construction continues and is approved.

The emotion and stories Fox discovered in every interview she conducted is what these residents have to live through every day, and at parts she started tearing up. Native American land is under attack because of the thought of implementing DAPL, but these residents want their voices to be heard. One of the most powerful quotes one man, who remained anonymous, said is for everyone to “be kind; be a human.”

The first season of “Rise” is available to watch for free at viceland.com.

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April 11, 2017

CAMPUS LIFE

Exploring the benefits and downsides of online courses Christina Laderoute Connector Editor

Gaining a college education does not mean that students must sit in a classroom three days a week.

Online classes are a great alternative for those students that cannot fit the time into their schedule to make it to school and have a face-to-face class.

Of course, like anything else, online classes have their benefits and drawbacks.

According to Mary Barrett, the associate director of Student Services, says some benefits of online courses include their extensive flexibility. If a student has access to a computer, they can take classes from anywhere. Online courses provide higher education access to a wider range of students.

For example, an online student could be someone who lives anywhere around the world and wants academics that this university makes available. They might not have access to a specific course because of their location.

Another benefit of the flexibility is that if a student has a physical or psychological situation where they would not be comfortable in a classroom, they can still get the same education as someone that is on campus.

Julian Zamudio, a senior computer engineering major, says he took online classes during the summer of his junior year, as well as this semester. Zamudio says that the benefits of taking online classes is that “[you are] able to do work under your own time under the restricted timeframe that you have to do it within.”

He says that some of the drawbacks are: “When you take exams or quizzes, they disappear after the date so it’s hard for you to make them up.”

He also says, “It’s harder to communicate with the professor individually with questions or concerns. The email system through Blackboard is difficult to work with versus the UMass Lowell Outlook email.”

When transitioning from face-to-face classes to online classes, it can be hard for some students.

When taking an online class, it is up to the student to take the responsibility to complete each assignment on time.

As with many aspects of student life, personal preference makes a big difference. If one prefers more hands-on learning and more face-to-face access to a professor, online classes may not be a good fit. If one likes to study in the comfort of one’s room and does not mind reading assignments instead of hearing about them, an online course would be worth a try.

Zamudio says, “If you take the classes in the spring or fall, it is much more difficult to be on top of things because you are distracted with your fellow peers and face-to-face classes.”

There are other upsides to online classes though.

Threads exist where students are encouraged and typically assigned to post about their thoughts and ideas, and their classmates are encouraged to read through it. It can be beneficial for someone to see other ideas and positions on a topic or problem.

Another positive to online courses is that when taking a quiz or exam, a student can be in the com-

fort of their own environment rather than a classroom. For some, this could help with stress and anxiety levels, thus improving grades.

Zamudio says that his least favorite things about online courses are that “Blackboard can take away access to discussions, exams and quizzes when they are past due. You’re more prone to technical problems when you try to post or do the assignments on time. [And lastly,] the email system is difficult to be aware of because it doesn’t link with your Outlook [account].”

When asked if he would recommend online courses, Zamudio says “Only for winter and summer seasons, because you are away from the distractions of your fellow peers and school activities.

Also, you have more control of your comfort setting over the summer and winter and you are only engaged in those [online] classes. [Whereas in the] spring and fall, you are engaged in student activities as well as have a social life.”

Courtesy of Bless This Mess

Courtesy of UMass Lowell

Taking an online course allows students to do their work from anywhere at anytime, as long as they have access to a computer.

A closer look at UMass Lowell’s transportation options Emma Hargraves Connector Contributor

Various methods of transportation for navigating campus exist, but it can often be confusing as to which one is best for students.

“Usually I’ll just use my car,” said commuter Manuel Garcia. He said he has had his car on campus since freshman year. “I’ve taken the bus one time.” Garcia noted that he is unfamiliar with the bus routes so that one time he accidentally ended up at Inn and Conference Center downtown instead of his destination.

For the most part, many students say they utilize the buses when convenient but otherwise walk or drive.

Catherine Ozek, a resident of Sheehy Hall, said that she has all her classes on South Campus, so she walks.

Ozek’s friends who have classes on North Campus usually take the shuttle either to North Campus or to University Crossing.

Many students use the RoadsterRoutes app as a convenient way to see in real time if the bus you need is

near them. “If you miss the bus then you spend another five, 10, 15 minutes waiting for the next bus,” said commuter Joshua Gwan.

Others said the bus system has its own problems. “You never know if it’s going to be late,” said Brittany Dauphinais, a resident of Leitch “If you’re walking you know exactly how long it takes to get there.”

Jordan Jutras, a resident of University Suites, said that “walking would be much faster to go to South [from East Campus].”

“If you’re on a time crunch and if there’s a bus on your Roadster [app] nowhere near your campus, I would probably say to walk [is the most convenient],” said Ozek. She said that it depends on the time of day in terms of rush hour because the busses tend to slow down.

Garcia said that he usually walks from North Campus to South Campus. He said the walk is “not bad...I could take the bus if I wanted to but [I walk] just to get some exercise.”

Dauphinais said that walking is the

most convenient way to get around campus but added that some people skateboard, longboard or bike since “wheels are obviously going to be faster than walking.”

In addition to UMass Lowell’s buses or walking, students are now able to utilize the Lowell Regional Transit Authority and the Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority bus systems. A UMass Lowell transportation services employee, AJ Pellegrino, said that many students are taking advantage of this option.

Cody Richards, an off-campus resident, said that the LRTA has an application similar to RoadsterRoutes called LRTA Bus Tracker. Richards said that there is an online live link available too that tends to work better.

Additionally, Pellegrino said that the BikeShare program is also very popular. It is free and offers multiple locations all around campus for students to get bikes with repair stations as well.

UMass Lowell has also teamed up with Zipcar, a car sharing program.

Pellegrino said the University has eight to 10 Zipcars available in the garages, and one car costs $15 for students instead of the normal $25. Users get 180 miles and gas is included for only $7 an hour, Pellegrino said. “I’m always seeing people using them,” he said.

In regards to driving around campus, Gwan pointed out that it takes him 15 to 20 minutes to clear Wilder Street on South Campus at rush hour.

“It’s definitely a problem,” he said.

To get downtown on weekends, many students use Uber or Lyft, the ridesharing applications. Pellegrino said occasionally students Uber between campuses because it only costs roughly $2.75 to get from South Campus to East Campus.

Overall, the transportation options for students has its kinks, but the university and the city are always making changes and improvements. With the lease ending on East Meadow Lane Apartments, the Green line will be eliminated before next semester.

“They’re doing what they can, and it works,” said Pellegrino.

April 11, 2017

UM ASS L OWELL C ONNECTOR

ng happeni What’s us on camp th?! this mon SUNDAY

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CAMPUS CALENDAR

APRIL MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

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12

13

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Cap and Gown Countdown celebration for graduating students including food, entertainment

PhotoVoice: student photo and story presentation in O’leary related to identity on campus

Parker Lecture Series WBZ “NightSide” host Dan Rea will speak on his media experience and reporting in thec riminal justice system

Big Band Performance UMass Lowell’s Jazz Rock Big Band will perform contemporary Big Band jazz

Spring Concert UMass Lowell’s University Orchestra performing in Durgin

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Knockout Stigma Basketball Active Minds second annual 3v3 benefit basketball tournament

SATURDAY

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Ribbon cutting Pulichino Tong Business building officially opens

Angkor Dance Troupe A show featuring the UMass Lowell World Ensemble and Angkor Dance Troupe

George Davis Track Meet UMass Lowell Track and Field hosts their only home meet of their season

Alumni Awards 19th annual alumni awards for UMass Lowell graduates

Calendar listings are FREE when space is available. To better ensure your listings placement, get your information in two weeks in advance by e-mailing connector@uml.edu

This summer earn credits toward your degree Maymester: Session 2: Session 3: Session 4:

May 22–June 9 (3 weeks) June 13–July 13 (5 weeks) June 19–August 8 (7 weeks) July 18–August 16 (5 weeks)

For a list of courses, and to register –

umassd.edu /summer Undergraduate or Graduate Online or On Campus 508.999.9202 | extension@umassd.edu

UM ASS L OWELL C ONNECTOR

April 11, 2017

Page 10

SPORTS

It is time to give UMass Lowell hockey the attention it deserves Marlon Pitter Connector Editor

As one of the best teams in college hockey for the last six seasons, the UMass Lowell River Hawks still seem to fly under the radar when it comes to national attention.

The team produces consistent success without top prospects or high draft picks. Hockey East championships have become the norm with coach Norm Bazin behind the bench.

Yet it seems not to matter to outside of Hockey East compared to storied programs like Boston College, North Dakota and others.

UMass Lowell does not have much history to its Division I era – one that started in 1984 after three Division II championships in four years preceding it – but the River Hawks have a present and a future that everyone involved in college hockey should be aware of.

In terms of recruiting, UMass Lowell hockey is not a program where top National Hockey League (NHL) draft picks go to spend their college years. Just ask Chelmsford’s own Jack Eichel.

The second overall pick in the 2015 NHL draft who now plays professionally for the Buffalo Sabres, Eichel opted to play for the Boston

University (BU) Terriers instead of choosing to play in his own backyard for the River Hawks. UMass Lowell was a winning team when he played for BU in the 2014-15 season before going pro, but the accolades were not there when he committed, years before he set foot on campus.

That has not stopped the River Hawks from finding and developing their own talent and even getting them to the pros. UMass Lowell’s roster has only carried as many as four NHL draftees in a single season during Bazin’s tenure (2016-17), but that has not stopped undrafted recruits from making a name for themselves and getting signed as free agents. Players like Scott Wilson, Adam Chapie, A.J. White and Kevin Boyle have made their way through UMass Lowell to the professional ranks without being drafted, and that is a trend that should continue long after this season.

The Hockey East Association is arguably the best conference in college hockey (although pundits from the National Collegiate Hockey Conference would disagree), so winning the conference tournament is always an impressive feat. Try winning it three times in five years and making to the championship game in the other two.

Only Maine has a longer streak of appearing in the Hockey East title game from 1987-93, and UMass Lowell could put itself in prime position to tie that record in the coming years with their consistency.

Speaking of consistency, the River Hawks have been a model for success outside of Hockey East as well.

UMass Lowell has been ranked in the USCHO or USA Hockey Magazine polls for 114 consecutive weeks since Jan. 7, 2013. The team has won 21 or more games in all six seasons with Bazin at the helm, and the River Hawks have qualified for the NCAA tournament in five of those six years.

This year, the River Hawks posted a 27-11-3 record, advancing to the NCAA Northeast Regional Final, one game short of their second Frozen Four appearance. While 10 teams in this year’s tournament have NCAA titles in their trophy cases, UMass Lowell’s quest for its first championship was

denied by Notre Dame – a team UMass Lowell entered the Regional Final 9-2-2 against since 2013 when the Fighting Irish joined Hockey East – in a 3-2 overtime contest on March 26 in Manchester, N.H. With the end of the season comes the departure of a 99-win senior class.

Evan Campbell, Michael Kapla, Zink and Gambardella move on from UMass Lowell – the latter three for the pros – while junior standout C.J. Smith has also made the jump to the NHL, forgoing his final season of eligibility.

This may set the team back next year, as the River Hawks lose four of their top five scorers and should look for scoring from younger players to replicate the third-highest scoring offense in the country. Regardless, with the way the team has performed over the last six seasons, it is time to give the River Hawks the attention they deserve.

UM ASS L OWELL C ONNECTOR

Page 11

SPORTS

River Hawks lose third straight in America East matchup Jason Ounpraseuth Connector Staff

The UMass Lowell women’s lacrosse team (6-5, 0-3 AE) lost their third game in a row in a 15-4 contest against the UAlbany Great Danes (74, 3-1) in Saturday’s America East action.

The River Hawks were hoping to improve from their 10-7 loss to the University of New Hampshire on Wednesday.

Sophomore attacker Jane Dudley’s 26th point and total of 14 assists broke a single-season program record and surpassed her career-high in points in that game.

That would not be the case, as Dudley was a non-factor against UAlbany’s robust defense. UAlbany won more draw controls and had more shots on goal than UMass Lowell, especially in the first half where they outshot the River Hawks 13-3.

Courtesy of UMass Lowell Athletics

Freshman midfielder Hana Caster set a career-high with three points.

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The 2016-17 edition of the River Hawks secured a Hockey East Championship.

River Hawks and UAlbany Split Doubleheader Action UMass Lowell Athletics

LOWELL, Mass. – The UMass Lowell baseball team (13-12, 4-3) split an America East doubleheader with the UAlbany Great Danes (10-12, 3-5) at LeLacheur Park on Saturday afternoon. The River Hawks took game one 4-0, before falling in the finale 4-2.

“In game one, Andrew Ryan was the best I think I have ever seen him and Colby finally got the key hit we were looking for,” commented Head Coach Ken Harring. “In game two, we don’t make a play and a kid hits a three-run shot, and that’s the cruelty of this game. We put ourselves in position and had some opportunities to fight back, but we have a chance to win the series tomorrow.”

Andrew Ryan (Rochester, Mass.) cruised through eight shutout innings, striking out eight to pick up the win in game one for the River Hawks. The junior converted 71 of his 109 pitches for strikes and only allowed three hits.

UMass Lowell broke the scoreless tie in the seventh on a two-run double to short right field of the bat of Colby

Maiola (North Reading, Mass.), for his team-leading 20 and 21st RBI of the season. Oscar Marchena (Miami, Fla.) began the rally with a one-out single and advanced to third after a Steve Passatempo (Medford, Mass.) walk and a groundout.

The River Hawks added two insurance runs in the top of the ninth after Chris Sharpe (Burlington, Mass.) doubled to lead off the frame.

He crossed the plate on a Passatempo sacrifice fly, and Cam Climo (Billerica, Mass.) singled home Marchena for the four-run buffer.

UAlbany jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the top of the first in game two on a Travis Collins three-run home run to right field.

Ben Prada (Laurel, Md.) got one back for UMass Lowell in the fifth with a sac fly to center than scored Russ Olive (Chelmsford, Mass.), after the sophomore doubled to lead off the inning. The River Hawks climbed within 3-2 on John Polichetti’s (Atkinson, N.H.) RBI single in the sixth to score Maiola.

April 11, 2017

UP CO MI N G

River Hawk Games

An early lead helped Tuesday, April 11 7 p.m.

MLAX at Dartmouth the Great Danes establish control and coast Tuesday, April 11 7 p.m.

WLAX at Hartford to a 15-4 victory.

UAlbany started off Wednesday, April 12 3 and 5 p.m.

SB vs. Maine the game with a quick goal from freshman Thursday, April 13 All Day XCTF at Mt. SAC Relays midfielder Sam Tortora. The Great Danes Friday, April 14 12 and 3 p.m. BB vs. Stony Brook ended the first half leading 10-0 as they 12 p.m.

WLAX at Binghamton Saturday, April 15 continued to build their lead by staying aggresFor more sports information and full game schedules visit goriverhawks.com sive and pressuring the UMass Lowell defense The flow of the game called for and midfield.

UMass Lowell goalkeeper junior The River Hawks were able to get Courtney Barrett and UAlbany goaltheir first goal in the second half. keeper freshman Erin Leghart to be Sophomore midfielder Kristina Keith subbed out of the game after 43:31 scored an unassisted goal from free minutes of play. position.

Freshman midfielder Hana Caster Great Danes’ senior attacker Dako- had three points in the second half, tah Savitcheff led the game with five scoring two and assisting on one. goals. Teammate and America East Caster and the other UMass Lowell leader in goals Sarah Martin scored subs provided a slight spark. The oftwo goals, but lead the way in assists fense was able to get more shots off, providing five assists. and the River Hawks were able to Martin was the most impactful play- maintain quality possessions in the er of the game, maintaining the pres- latter stages of the game. sure on UMass Lowell and staying agUMass Lowell will go on the road gressive to build UAlbany’s lead from to face Harvard on Tuesday at 7 p.m. start to finish.