The Chronicle
February 28, 2012
The weekly student newspaper at The College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York
www.strosechronicle.com
Volume LXXX Issue 24
Saint Rose Music ForAwards more photos see page A5
Two Students Involved in Local Bar Brawl By IAN BENJAMIN Executive Editor A verbal altercation at a Pine Hills bar less than a block from the College took a turn for the violent, spilling out into Yates St. early Wednesday morning, according to James Miller, spokesperson for the Albany police department. Two of the five arrested, Bradley West, 27, and Gabrielle Schuster, 20, both of Albany, are affiliated with The College of Saint Rose. The fighting spilled out of the Stone Crow bar onto Yates St. between Ontario and Partridge streets at approximately 1:20
WEST
SCHUSTER
a.m., said Miller. Five men were seen fist-fighting while a crowd cheered from the sidewalk. The fight was seen to break up into smaller groups before moving into the intersection of Ontario and Yates streets. An Albany police officer in the Continued on page A2
Meet Joe Ray, the Man on the Corner By TG BRANFALT JR. Staff Writer It’s been wet and warm lately. Very likely some of the warmest and wettest days we have experienced during this dry, upstate New York winter. Standing on the corner of Madison Ave – that peninsula where Madison and Western converge, that freak show of a corner with six stop lights – is Joe Ray. A bit over-dressed for the weather, wearing a black knit cap, black gloves and black Carhartt coat and pants, Ray pulls his neon yellow reflective vest over his head and waits, thermos full of coffee tucked in his coat pocket, for parents and students headed
to Pine Hills Elementary to make their way to his corner. Joe Ray’s job is to make sure they get to school safely. Well, one of Joe Ray’s jobs. Joseph Ray III was born and raised in Albany, he and his wife raised a daughter here, and now he looks to give back to the city where he grew up. Aside from serving as a crossing guard, an extremely part time gig with no fringe benefits, Ray is also on the Board of Zoning Appeals. There’s an incredible difference between the Joe Ray standing out in the rain with a reflective vest and Joseph Ray III sitting in the Common Council Chambers Continued on page A4
News & Features
Christopher Banach, of My Favorite Fence, started off the Friday night award show.
Arts & Opinion
KELLY PFEISTER
Sports
In Brief: Details on a pair of recent sexual assaults in nearby neighborhoods. See page A2
Review: a trio of student bands take the spotlight at Jack’s Place. See page B7
Read how the men’s basketball team fared in their season finale against UNH. See page D15
Inside: photos from Friday night’s Saint Rose Music Awards in St. Joseph hall. See page A5
Bias in wellness portfolios undermines physical education courses, writes student. Find out more on page C12
Recap of track and field team’s performance in New York City during the Armory Collegiate Challenge. See page D15
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The Chronicle
In Brief
Recent Sexual Assaults By IAN BENJAMIN Executive Editor Two sexual assaults occurred the morning of Sunday, Feb, 19, according to an Albany police department press release. The first victim, 21, was attacked while walking along Hamilton St. at 2:15 a.m with two friends. A man emerged from behind a fence located on the north side of Hamilton, just east of Quail, and approached the three women. The assailant reached up under the victim’s skirt and forcibly touched her. He then ran off. The assailant was described as a “black male approximately 5’7” with a small build,” according to information given to the Albany police, and was “wearing a black hooded sweatshirt.” He was witnessed running on Hamilton St. towards Ontario. The victim called police from her Pine Hills apartment later that morning to inform them of the incident. The second incident occurred in the vicinity of Washington Park. A woman, 25, was walking home at approximately 3:30 a.m.
with a friend. The pair parted ways with the victim continuing on to walk through the park alone. As she was walking, the assailant approached the victim from behind and pushed her to the ground. The man then put a hard object to the back of the victim’s head and “proceeded to assault the victim,” said Albany police department spokesperson James Miller. The assailant then told the victim that he would kill her if she moved as he was running away. The victim transported herself to Memorial Hospital after the attack, at which point Albany police officers were contacted. She informed the officers that the assailant was a black male, 5’7”, with a medium build. The assailant was also wearing “black baggy sweatpants, hooded sweatshirt and black knitted winter hat,” Miller said. The suspect was last seen heading westbound through the park in the direction of New Scotland Avenue. “It is unknown at this time if the incidents are related or not,” stated Miller.
Rabbi to Deliver Lecture By EMILY ROBERTSON Business Manager Rabbi Burton Visotzky, a prominent voice in Jewish- Muslim discourse, will present his lecture “From Cairo to Qatar: Jewish-Muslim Relations from One Rabbi’s Perspective,” on Thursday, March 22 at 7 p.m. in the Hubbard Interfaith Sanctuary. This event is free and open to the public. Visotzky will share some of his insights and experiences and reflect on what the impact of September 11, 2001 will mean for America and Israel, as well as Jewish, Muslim and Jewish communities as a whole. Visotzky has previously been featured, with Bill Moyers, on the PBS series
VISOTZKY “Genesis: A Living Conversation,” which aired in 1996. Visotzky is also involved in the ongoing Jewish-ChristianMuslim engagement worldwide, and is the author of 10 books and over 100 articles. Rabbi Burton Visotzky is currently the Appleman Professor of Midrash and Irreligious Studies and Director of the Louis Finkelstein Institute for Religious and Social Studies at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America.
News
February 28, 2012
Volume 80 Issue 24
Brawl at Stone Crow (cont.)
Continued from page A1 vicinity witnessed the brawl and called for backup. As additional officers arrived, the Albany police were able to disperse the fight. Four of the participants were arrested for riot in the second degree. A fifth man took off before officers could apprehend him. “He has since been identified,” said Miller. Schuster, of 51 Hollywood Ave., was arrested on a different charge. She was allegedly attempting to remove West, her boyfriend, from officers as they were attempting to handcuff him. She disobeyed several orders to cease before being charged with obstruction of governmental administration in the second degree. West graduated with a masters in education at last year’s commencement having completed his degree requirements in December 2010. Including West, the men arrested were Joshua Goldstein, 26, of Albany, Travis Triplett, 22, of Watervliet, and Richard Jack, 19, of Schenectady. All those arrested were arraigned in Albany City Court. It is unclear what incited the brawl.
The Stone Crow is located at 498 Yates St.
JACK ADVERTISEMENT
TRIPLETT
IAN BENJAMIN
GOLDSTEIN
February 28, 2012
News
Volume 80 Issue 24 ADVERTISEMENT
What’s Happening @ the . . .
Career Center
Information Table
Resume Critique Week Monday 3/12 9-5:30PM Tuesday 3/13 9-5:30PM Wednesday 3/14 9-5:30PM Thursday 3/15 9-4PM Friday 9-4PM Bring a hard copy of your resume &/or cover letter for a 15 minute review with a staff member!
Center for Disability Services: Multiple FT &PT Positions 2/28/12 11-2PM in EAC Camp Scully: Local Summer Camp Staff 2/29/12 11-2PM in EAC
Local March Career Fairs Schenectady CCC—Public Services Career Expo, 3/8/12, Schenectady Campus HVCC– Career Fair, 3/13/12 10-1PM, Troy Campus Education Expo—3/22/12 9-3PM, Polish Community Center Siena College—Spring Career Internship & Graduate School Fair, 3/27/12, Loudonville Campus
www.strose.edu/careercenter
career@strose.edu
518-454-5141
Weekly Safety Tip When walking alone at night, remember the Safe Corridor Paths that were created for your safety. View the Saint Rose Security Website at www.strose. edu/security for more details and views of the Safe Corridor Map. The weekly safety tips provided by Professor Rosemary Sheridan's Fall 2011 COM372 Campaigning class in collaboration with The College of Saint Rose Security Department.
Crime Blotter Larceny Occurred on Myrtle Ave. between Quail St. and S. Lake Ave.
Larceny Occurred on Quail St. between Elberon St. and Western Ave.
Aggravated Assault Occurred on Quail St. between Madison Ave. and Hamilton St.
Burglary Occurred on Madison Ave. between S. Lake Ave. and Quail St.
Robbery Occurred on Hamilton St. between Quail and Ontario streets
Larceny Occurred on Lancaster St. between on N. Allen and W. Lawrence streets
The Chronicle
This crime blotter is compiled using the City of Albany Police Department’s crime map. This map shows the incidents that happened in the past week, Monday through Sunday, within the boundaries of the Pine Hills Neighborhood limits as established by the Pine Hills Neighborhood Association. The map can be found at: http:// www.albanyny.org/Government/Departments/Police/cmapping/maps.aspx Executive Editor Ian Benjamin ‘12 benjamini528@strose.edu
News Editor Scott Lawson ‘14 lawsons408@strose.edu
Managing Editor Sunshine Osella ‘13 osellas452@strose.edu
Opinion Editor Advertising Manager Regina Iannizzotto ‘13 Alison Lester ‘12 iannizzottor407@strose.edu lestera694@strose.edu Arts Editor Web Editor Chris Surprenant ‘14 Searching for applicants. surprenantc572@strose.edu
Layout Editor Jeremie Soemann ‘15 soemannj658@strose.edu Features Editor Searching for applicants.
Sports Editor Jackson Wang ‘14 wangj847@strose.edu
Business Manager Emily Robertson ‘13 robertsone307@strose.edu
Copy Editor Malana Jojo ‘13 jojom304@strose.edu
Calendar of Events
Tuesday, February 28 12 p.m. Lunchtime Yoga Hubbard Sanctuary 4:30 p.m. African American Read-In Touhey Forum, Lally 5 p.m. Karate Club Moran Conf Rm. 5:15 p.m. Yoga Hubbard Sanctuary 5:30 p.m. Teaching with Coretta Scott King Award Books Lally Symposium 6 p.m. Student Association Officers Interest Meeting Student Affairs 7 p.m. Knight Skills Moran Hall 7 p.m. Room Reservation Info Session Touhey Forum, Lally 7 p.m. SEB Meeting St. Joseph Hall 7 p.m. Adventure Club Lima Basement 8 p.m. SADD Meeting Main Lounge 8 p.m. Yoga for Students Hubbard Sanctuary 8:30 p.m. Environmental Club Meeting Lima Basement Wednesday, February 29 12 p.m. NSSHLA Monthly Meeting Lally 123 4:30 p.m. Chronicle Meeting CCIM Rm 121 5 p.m. Weekly Mass Hubbard Sanctuary 6 p.m. Native American Celebration Standish 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Room Reservation Info Session Touhey Forum 7 p.m. Rose Rock Committee Meeting Lima Basement 7 p.m. Lacrosse vs Dominican Albany 7 p.m. BASIC Meeting Hubbard Sanctuary 7:30 p.m. Spectrum Meeting Standish 8 p.m. Theatre Guild Main Lounge 9:30 p.m. Rose Day Information Session Main Lounge Thursday, March 1 6 p.m. MAPS Meeting ALB 110 7 p.m. Tim Rollins and K.O.S. St. Joseph Hall 7:15 p.m. MEISA Meeting CCIM Projection Room 7:30 p.m. Saint Rose Wind Ensemble and ESYO Wind Orchestra Concert Massry 7:30 p.m. Identity Meeting Lima Basement Friday, March 2 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Annual Juried High School Regional Exhibition Reception Massry Saturday, March 3 7:30 p.m. Brian Patneaude Quartet CD Release Event Massry Sunday, March 4 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. Karate Club EAC 110 Monday, March 5 6 p.m. English Club Meeting Library 5:15 p.m. Yoga Hubbard Sanctuary 7 p.m. Taize Prayer Group Hubbard Sanctuary 7 p.m. Knight Skills Moran Hall 8 p.m. Outside the [BOX] ALB 211 9 p.m. Relay For Life Meeting ALB 207 If you have an upcoming event you would like to see in our weekly Calendar of Events please e-mail chronicle@strose.edu.
Staff Writers David LeBlanc Michael Smith Photographer Joshua Natoli Kelly Pfeister Rachel Bolton pfeisterk953@strose.edu Meghan O’Connor Jaired Crofut Videographer Asia Ewart John Janitz Theresa Taylor janitzj140@strose.edu Lauren Halligan John Slagg Sam Maxwell TG Branfalt Jr.
Faculty Adviser Cailin Brown
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The Chronicle
Any student can join The Chronicle Submissions Official E-mail Address All articles, advertisements and chronicle@strose.edu Letters to the Editor are due by noon the Saturday prior to publication. Mailing Address The Saint Rose Chronicle Advertising All advertising inquiries should be 432 Western Avenue sent to Advertising Manager Alison Albany, NY 12203 Lester at lestera694@strose.edu.
The Chronicle offers free black Meetings and white 3 by 5 ads to student-run Meetings are held every organizations. Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. in Letters to the Editor the Viewing Room, CCIM The Chronicle accepts Letters to the Editor from any party. Letters should 121. not exceed 750 words.
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The Chronicle
Continued from page A 1
News
February 28, 2012
Volume 80 Issue 24
Man on the Corner (cont.) Ray is well known in the community; he was appointed to his position on the zoning board by Mayor Jerry Jennings and reselected by the common council. That, however, doesn’t stop him from criticizing the council if he feels they have made a mistake. The council determines the salary for the crossing guards, which comes from the Albany Police Department budget.
interactions he has with the parents, the wearing a suit, mulling over matkids they are bringing ters of city code. to school, and many He takes both of his jobs seriat the bus stop are not ously, at the corner he refuses to thankless. He seems continue our conversation while to know, and have, a helping families cross the busy story for everyone. intersection, and at a zoning Standing on the meeting, he interrogates property wet corner, waitowners looking for a zoning variing for the light to ances. Joe Ray cares about this change, are a mother city. and son. Ray kneels Ray, briefly studied at Saint down and asks the Rose, but ultimately received his small boy about his degree in psychology from the Star Wars beanie. University at Albany, worked a The little boy tells stones throw from the college at him his favorite charLa Salle School for Boys for 31 acter is Jar-Jar Binks, years. and does his best His long career at La Salle beChewbacca impresgan as a janitor and culminated, sion. “What? You albeit abruptly, as the assistant don’t like Luke Skydirector of living. walker?” “I went from the basement to That same family the top floor,” he said. gave Ray a box of Ray is a proud, yet humble, candy as a Christmas guy. He talks a lot about his chil“The common council lowered gift – “Just what I dren, a son and daughter. His our salary this year because they need, right?” TG BRANFALT JR. daughter, recently received her feel we don’t do enough,” he said. Joe Ray on the corner of Madison and S. Allen streets. “How come you’re master’s degree from New York “You have to wonder, sometimes, not riding your bike University. His son-in-law – her what these people at the common today?” he says to a couple. Takes her youngest to ing more about me. He knew just husband – is an attorney. council do.” passenger just getting off the bus. daycare first, then to the elemen- a little bit about everyone that “You gotta get an education,” crossed his streets. He points out The crossing guard job, to “It’s too cold!” the man re- tary school then to work.” Ray said, “and I tell these kids, many, seems thankless. But the sponds. “He’s a nice guy,” said Eric the “very hard working” Nigerian ‘study hard.’” “We used to play rac- Sherman, general manager of immigrant family, a father and quet ball together,” he the Bruegger’s Bagels. Sher- three children. “He works with man serves Ray his small coffee, computers.” He chats with a babsaid. ysitter, they joke about a screamA driver, stopped ing fit one of the children had last at the light in front of “My theory is to make week. Bruegger’s Bagels, rolls He never forgets a face. down his window and kids happy as they “Don’t I know you from somehonks. cross. That way they go where?” Ray asked me with a “Go Giants!” the pasinto the classroom they smile during our chance meeting senger yells to Ray – a at the Zoning Board meeting. former season ticket seem in better spirits.” “Yeah, but I don’t think I know holder – who responds you.” with the same. Joseph Ray III Joe Ray, the crossing guard, “My son is a Dalconscientiously failed to menlas [Cowboys] fan,” he which he takes with cream and tion Joseph Ray III, the Zoning said, shaking his head. one Sweet ‘n Low, two or three Board Member, which is perhaps “I’m still in therapy times a week. the most telling. His jobs aren’t about that.” Brandon Irving, while walking thankless, he just doesn’t seem to Another young womhis two small cousins home from crave the thanks. an crosses the street school, shared the sentiment. “My theory is to make kids with her small son. “He’s funny, super-nice,” Irhappy as they cross. That way “She’s a sweet girl, ving said. “He talks to everythey go into the classroom they two kids. Environmenbody.” seem in better spirits.” talist,” Ray smiles as he TG BRANFALT JR. Yet, he doesn’t say too much. talks about her. “I met Joe Ray, Albany native and Zoning Board of Appeals Member, mans his post. her husband, real nice He was more interested in learn-
“You gotta get an education,” Ray said, “and I tell these kids, ‘study hard.’” Joseph Ray III
February 28, 2012
Volume 80 Issue 24
News
The Chronicle
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Saint Rose Music Awards Saint Rose students dressed to impress for the SMAs in Saint Joseph Hall Friday night. Hosts Tinamarie Stolz and Myles Clendenin kept the crowd laughing as they rattled off jokes, modeled footie pajamas, and even sang with The Girls Next Door. The entertainment included Brian Willis, Amanda Daley, The Girls Next Door, Studio 315, Lionel Nichols, The Golden Notes, Roger That! The Sleuthsical, Kyle Albano, and Nathaniel Meyers. The event raised funds for Relay for Life. Kali Bradford singing in the band Studio 315.
Jessica Nappi and Amelia Renaud pose for a photo before the Saint Rose Music Awards Friday night.
Amanda Daley sings “Set Fire to the Rain,” by Adele.
KELLY PFEISTER
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Mackenzie Cohn singing “Turning Tables,” by Adele, with The Girls Next Door.
Kyle Albano performs his own song.
KELLY PFEISTER
Paul Jenkins, of Studio 315, plays the keyboard.
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KELLY PFEISTER
Arts
The Chronicle ADVERTISEMENT
February 28, 2012
Volume 80 Issue 24
Ravi Coltrane to Visit Saint Rose By CHRIS SURPRENANT Arts Editor Grammy-nominated jazz artist Ravi Coltrane will visit Massry Center for the Arts on Thursday, March 15 at 7:30 pm. One of today’s most critically acclaimed musicians, Coltrane is renowned for his innovative style as a saxophonist, composer, and bandleader. Coltrane, famous in his own right, is the son of music legends John and Alice Coltrane and has worked with the likes of Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, and Carlos Santana. While having found great success as a live performer, Coltrane has also founded an independent record company, RKM Music.
PRESS PHOTO
COLTRANE Anyone interested in attending the concert should contact Sal Prizio by phone at 518-337-4871 or by email at concerts@strose. edu. Tickets are $25 and are on sale now.
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February 28, 2012
Arts
Volume 80 Issue 24
The Chronicle
Fiction For Bandits
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Headlines Show at Jac k’s Place Student bands stole the stage last Thursday By LAUREN HALLIGAN Staff Writer Three Saint Rose rock bands, Fiction For Bandits, The 7th Squeeze, and Route 263, all shared the stage in Saint Rose’s own Jack’s Place in CCIM on Thursday, Feb. 23. The concert was a MEISA production. Each band included at least one member of the Saint Rose student body, and the show offered students a chance to play for their peers in a familiar atmosphere. Fiction for Bandits, who headlined the event, commented, “It is a great way to see local musicians in an environment where they are excited to play for others,” according to Scott Ramundo, communications student and drummer of the group.
Ramundo explains his band’s do reported that, “All our songs style as “hard post-punk,” a de- so far are about female fictional scription they live up to in con- characters.” Along with these ficcert. This being their seventh tional-female themed songs, the show ever, he stated that their band also played a cover of “Us” goal as a band is by Regina Spe“to turn some unktor, which they “We are a hardwork- reportedly adjustexpecting people into Banditos.” ing band that really ed to fit their style. The group, Ramundo deloves performing any- scribed the band’s comprised of Nick Perry on where we can, and any drive by stating guitar, Nick Wil- chance we get to make “We are a hardson on bass, Mike others smile or have a working band that Mazzeo on guitar, really loves perand Ramundo on good time we will do it forming anywhere 100 percent!” drums all contribwe can, and any ute vocals to the chance we get to performance. make others smile With song titles such as “Gwen or have a good time we will do it Stacy,” “Luna Lovegood,” and 100 percent!” “Stormy Llewelyn,” which they The night’s other performances performed on Thursday, Ramun- included Route 263, who opened the show, fronted by sophomore and music industry major Matt Lisk, who played an array of original songs, which sounded Pearl Jam-esque at times, as well as a cover of folk song “Rye Whiskey.” The 7th Squeeze, with Saint Rose music industry student Gary Ljungquist on bass, entertained the crowd with a high-energy set, sprinkled with pop covers including “Lady Marmalade,” in which front man Nick Horace impressively mimicked the roles of all five divas who contributed to the 2001 cover of the hit. Fiction for Bandits invites anyone interested to listen to their music at www.facebook.com/fictionforbandits and www.purevolume.com/fictionforbandits. Although band member Perry will be having surgery in the near future, hindering live performances in the near future, Ramundo said, “During that time we are going to be recording the parts for our CD” which they hope to release sometime in 2012.
Nick Horace belts it out for 7th Squeeze.
KELLY PFEISTER
Bubba Mann on bass with Route 263.
Members of the band Fiction For Bandits performed at Jack’s Place this past Thursday..
KELLY PFEISTER
LAUREN HALLIGAN
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Arts
The Chronicle
FriendsWith Benefits Has Few Benefits By ZACHARY OLSIVICKY Contributing Writer It’s often spoken that people who are in serious relationships consider their partners to be best friends. It’s difficult to imagine that a couple would want a serious relationship without a romantic element, but Friends With Benefits tackles what might happen in such a relationship. While the film is enjoyable, it struggles with nuance and is ultimately dragged down by questionable screenwriting, taking some excellent performances and putting them to waste. The film centers around the relationship between Dylan (Justin Timberlake), a graphic designer at an L.A.-based web company, and Jamie (Mila Kunis), a recruiter at a job agency who brings him to New York City for a position at a major magazine. Dylan and Jamie develop a strong friendship and have a near-inseparable social life, wisecracking about modern art and playing video games into the wee hours of the morning. One night, the two discuss their love lives and how each seeks romance without strings attached. Taking advantage of the situation, the two enter a pact for no-strings-attached sex, trying to maintain their friendship without any complications. Of course, this plan is doomed from the start; the two become so intimate in and out of bed that they are seen by even passersby as a couple. You couldn’t tell it from the way the two go out of their way to mask their feelings; Kunis and Timberlake try so hard to be friends that they forget there is something beneath the surface.
Their chemistry is similar to that of the main characters in the TV series Entourage, where they try so hard to deny feelings of romance for each other to the point that their friendship becomes unbelievable. In Benefits, part of this is the fault of screenwriting, but the actors are also at fault; Kunis and Timberlake capture the highs and lows of their characters, but struggle with nuance. Timberlake, while game, particularly struggles with his role; his delivery and tone are all acceptable, but just barely. His performance is at least a bit similar to his role in The Social Network, but the added depths of this character clearly pose difficulties for him. Although it’s hard to imagine two other actors better suited for this film, a pair of veteran actors might have made for more believable chemistry. Of course, Kunis and Timberlake are not the only characters with screen time, and one of Benefits’ strengths is in its strong ensemble of minor players. Patricia Clarkson stands out as Jamie’s free-spirited but aimless mother Lorna, who serves as Jaime’s main confidant. While Clarkson shines in the role, it stood out as unusual—would a successful young person like Kunis not have a friend her own age to discuss life with? A similar problem develops between Dylan and Tommy (Woody Harrelson), a flamboyant sports editor at the magazine Dylan works for and is an occasional mentor to Dylan. Harrelson brings an extroverted joy to his role, expertly toeing the line between character and caricature. Jason Siegel and Rashida Jones also have minor roles in a
film-within-the-film, and each plays with pitch-perfect parody. While this parody succeeds, the same can’t be said for most of the film’s other in-jokes and references. The writers take even its most irreverent plot points— references to ‘90s songs, flash mobs, etc.—and tries to tie them all together, even when it’s unnecessary. Ironically, the unstable screenwriting is one of the reasons acting stands out as the film’s strength. Benefits is driven by conversational dialogue, and banter between characters is the source of most humor. However, the jokes aren’t told in a deadpan manner like most films—characters openly laugh at each other’s jokes, and while it builds rapport between characters, it comes at the price of relegating the audience to the role of observer instead of participant. Will Gluck, who directs and contributes to the screenplay, keeps the film taut and enjoyable. He handles scenes in the bedroom with a balance of taste and temptation, although he tends to keep the characters too neat. Kunis’ and Timberlake’s bodies are practically flaunted on-screen with no visible flaws or imperfections. This seems impractical—would two people this career-oriented have that much time to maintain a physique? Gluck’s portrayal of the characters may be the film’s biggest undermining—they’re lives are completely removed from any reality that two characters would face in real life. Entertainment is synonymous with escapism, but Benefits takes the latter to such depths that the film is hard to believe and harder to enjoy.
THE CHRONICLE IS NOW ON FACEBOOK! Keep abreast of news and events on campus as they occur. Find our Page by searching “The Chronicle at The College of Saint Rose.” Hope you Like It.
February 28, 2012
Volume 80 Issue 24
Q&A with Alex Kandel of Sleeper Agent By LAUREN HALLIGAN Staff Writer Sleeper Agent, female-fronted breakout rock band from Bowling Green, Kentucky has recently been basking in the success of their first single “Get It Daddy” off their debut full-length album Celabrasion, which has been gaining airplay since its release in August of 2011. Their latest release off the album, entitled “Get Burned” is equally as catchy for the dance-prone crowds they’ll be performing over the next twelve weeks. While on their way to their first show on the tour, Sleeper Agent’s front woman Alex Kandel, 19, took time to talk to The Chronicle about what’s been going on with the band. Q: How long have you been on this tour and how long is it set to last? A: This is our first day. This tour is going to be about twelve weeks. We get a little bit of a break after the first two weeks, but overall the tour will be about twelve weeks. Q: Are you touring with any other bands? A: We’re doing a few shows by ourselves to start out with, but we’re meeting up with fun. [the band] and Ben Kweller. And we’re doing some festivals, so it’ll be a mixed bag. Q: How long has the band been together? A: I joined the band January of 2010. This tour actually started about the same time as our first tour ever did last year. So, we’ve been touring together for about one year. Q: Can you describe to me your personal favorite show you’ve ever played? A: Probably New Year’s in Chicago was one of my favorite shows we’ve ever done. That was at the Aragon Ballroom with Cage the Elephant, Morning Teleportation, and Company of Thieves. We toured a little bit with Company of Thieves last
year and then Morning Teleportation and Cage the Elephant are both from our hometown, so it was kind of like a hometown show transplanted to Chicago. Q: What music has interested you lately? What have you been listening to in the van? A: [In the] van, we listen to a lot of music. Right now, a record that’s really great, it’s been like stuck in my head constantly is the EMA records and then we’re about to, as soon as I’m done with this, were going to listen to the new Sleigh Bells record, because we haven’t heard it yet and they’re our labelmates. Q: How did you decide upon the album title Celabrasion. A: It’s a combination of the word celebrate and abrasion. It’s a play on words. During the time we all lived in a band house together with no heat, and half the house had electricity and we’d find little reasons to celebrate. Everyone was a little banged up at first about it, but we still had fun. Q: How do you feel about the success of the song “Get It Daddy?” A: I’m really proud of “Get It Daddy.” I think for our first single ever it did really well, and to hear it on a movie trailer commercial [What to Expect When You’re Expecting], it’s really cool that something that we wrote did that well on our first shot. And I’m hoping that “Get Burned” does just as well if not better. Kandel and the rest of Sleeper Agent invite anyone interested in checking out Celabrasion to do so on iTunes, or “Local record stores are pretty cool,” she added. As fans of the vintage medium, the band will also be releasing the record on vinyl in the near future, which can be ordered from their website sleeperagentmusic.com.
The full interview with Alex Kandel may be found online at wwwStRoseChronicle.com
February 28, 2012
Volume 80 Issue 24
Arts
The Chronicle
Ghost Rider 2: Not On Fire
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Johnny Blaze is back, and his new movie is anything but heavenly By SUNSHINE OSELLA Managing Editor Sometimes, sequels can be rare gems that are even better than their predecessors. Ghost Rider 2: Spirit of Vengeance (2D) is definitely not one of these. Nicolas Cage is back in this sequel as the deal-maker with the devil, Johnny Blaze, who is haunted by his past choices. Blaze is troubled about his hardto-control condition to the point that he would do almost anything to banish the ghost rider inside him. He finds himself undertaking the task of protecting Danny (Fergus Riordan), a young boy of demi-demonic parentage, from his evil-doing father and minions. Danny is an interesting character that has the fortune of having his father’s powers without his evilness. The movie implies that his goodness is due to the excellent, loving parenting of his mother, Nadya (Violante Placido). Placido was one of the redeeming qualities of the film because of her heartfelt acting. She, of all the characters, was the most vibrant and convincing. It was a fast moving film full of constant action and near misses on the acquisition of the boy. Blackout (Johnny Whitworth), an evildoer whose touch causes decay, is one of the main pursuers of Danny. There was added tension in the movie because of the history between Blackout, before he was gifted with the power of decay, and Nadya. The plot is exhaustingly unoriginal and not handled in a particularly creative way. The devil concept needs new twists to make it interesting and this film simply followed the most commonly held visions. The expected conclusive demon ritual is disappointing and leaves many things to be desired. The film also makes frequent references to politicians being devil worshipers which
would be humorous, except that it was approached in a distasteful way. This film takes the viewer on a dizzying ride of action sequences designed for the sole purpose of impressing, but it fails miserably. The decision was clear: to see how many explosions can be fitted into a 1 hr. and 35 min. movie. They definitely succeeded in their mission, but it was just too much. This movie, based off a comic book, employed a bit too much of the cartoon qualities. Directors Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor make some bizarre choices with the visual aspects of the movie. They employ the use of just two contrasting colors to create contrast but it just ends up looking cartoonish and ridiculous. The opposing religious force was portrayed in an interesting way. Although they may be better than the devil, they are not afraid to stoop to his level in order to preserve themselves. Apparently bald men, habits, wine, and crypts are what are favored by the heavenly power. Humor is seen throughout the film and is sometimes effective but sometimes it fell flat. There is one clever moment when Blackout is attempting to have something to eat but it is all decaying in his hand until he comes across one particular snack food that proves it can withstand even supernatural decay. The humor was also targeted towards adolescent boys with one memorable instance when Danny asks Johnny about what happens if he has to urinate while he’s on fire. Growing up with Marvel comics and being a fan of the first 2007 film installment of Ghost Rider, I had high hopes for this new addition. Everything from the acting, writing, and cinematic choices leaves much to be desired. If you are not an easily amused 10-15 year old boy, then this film is not worth your time.
SHAINA CARRIGAN
Managing Editor Sunshine Osella poses with the movie poster for the lacking new sequel Ghost Rider 2: Spirit of Vengeance after seeing the film this past weekend.
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The Chronicle
Arts
February 28, 2012
The Crime Corner
Something Sour, Something Sweet:
Dueling Romantic Comedies By RACHEL BOLTON Staff Writer Rating: Sweet I now return to the strange land of romantic comedies. I tend to hate the formulaic films that are supposed to make me feel all mushy inside. But, I like to try new things and the premise of Friends With Benefits intrigued me. I had hoped that it would be something different, and thankfully it was. It was a self-aware film that functions as a parody and tribute to the genre. The film begins with the protagonists both being dumped by their respective partners. Jamie (Mila Kunis) is a “corporate recruiter” and Dylan (Justin Timberlake) is a web artist she finds for GQ. He agrees to the job and moves from L.A. to New York City. Jamie and Dylan get along well and because he does not know anyone else in the city, the pair continues to hang out. Jamie and Dylan share their issues about relationships. Jamie claims she is “emotionally damaged” and Dylan says he was called “emotionally unavailable.” They both agree that love is overrated and draining, but they both miss sex. After watching a stupid romantic comedy together, Dylan suggests that they become “friends with benefits.” Jamie agrees and they both swear on her iPad Bible app that they will stay friends and that it will be “no emotions, just sex.” In traditional romantic comedy fashion, we are greeted with a montage of good times between Dylan and Jamie. They “have fun together” and he takes her to meet his family in L.A. One of the funniest moments in the film happens when Jamie makes Dylan climb into an “O” in the
Hollywood sign. But, of course, the third act breakup must occur and Jamie departs from LA sad and alone. Will they ever realize that they love each other? Friends With Benefits is a raunchy feel-good movie. It does follow the formula for romantic comedies, however it becomes tolerable because the characters take every opportunity to poke fun at the genre. In another instant of “dueling movies,” Friends With Benefits shares numerous similarities with the Natalie Portman/Ashton Kutcher vehicle No Strings Attached. The plots are both about young, hip professionals who have issues with relationships deciding to become friends with benefits. In the end, Friends With Benefits is the better movie. The chemistry between the leads is more palpable than in No Strings Attached. NSA is a regular romantic comedy, in that it follows and takes the formula seriously. It begins in the same way as Friends With Benefits, full of sarcastic repartee. However, as it progresses, it decays into a sappy drama and stops being enjoyable. FWB, on the other hand, uses the formula much more effectively. The insertion of true drama into the plot does not feel as forced and does not bog down the story. The movie stays funny and does not end up as a pile of heartstrings-pulling mush. Check out Friends With Benefits. It’s outrageously hilarious and you will be rooting for Jamie and Dylan to get together. It reaches a satisfying ending without getting too cheesy. If you’re looking to enjoy another good romantic comedy, check out the classic movie When Harry Met Sally. It’s a wonderful story about two friends falling in love.
Volume 80 Issue 24
By CHRIS SURPRENANT Arts Editor And Then There Were None Over the past few weeks, I’ve suggested some of my favorite Agatha Christie novels, and it’s been a hoot and half. I’m sad to say that this will be the last installment of “The Crime Corner.” That being said, I’d like to leave you with a work that I have mixed feelings about: And Then There Were None. This is Christie’s best-selling novel, making over 100 million sales. Though popular, I’m not sure that I’m entirely satisfied with the ending. And Then There Were None is perhaps the original isolation novel. Ten guests are summoned to the remote Indian Island by the mysterious U.N. Owen. Each has a past that is unsavory, to say the least, and is accompanied by a particular type of displeasing personality. One by one, they meet fates that they may or may not deserve. Cloudy and atmospheric, the novel invites the readers into a realm that neither they nor the characters can escape. The novel has a somewhat smoky history, even before the front cover is cracked. The story had originally been titled Ten Little N****rs after an ancient nursery rhyme that is referred to within its pages, but was changed when the novel reached America due to its offensive nature. It was later published in the states as Ten Little Indians, which was more socially acceptable at the time. Still, in the realm of correct politics, current editions of the book are now entitled And Then There
BRIAN PICENTE
Agatha Christie’s novels have baffled readers for generations. With over 80 titles, the mysteries will keep entertaining many for years to come. Were None. The rhyme plays a key part in Christie’s story, as it foreshadows how particular characters will meet their end. This particular work of Christie’s has an interesting quality to it, in that it appears to setup the slasher genre contemporary audiences have been familiarized with on film. Of all the Christie novels I have read, this one adds a definitive creep factor to the standard “whodunit” story. Uncharacteristically of the author, the murders described in the text are much more gruesome than her other works. The characters involved believe that a murderer is hiding on the island, causing subsequent deaths in grotesque fashions that adhere to the nursery rhyme. Death comes about in the form of an axe to the head, bludgeoning, poison, and drowning to name a few. None of them are safe, and they slowly believe the murderer to be one of their own, rather than a sadistic outsider. I will say that this novel kept
me on the edge of my seat while reading. I pointed my finger at every character and accused them of the murders, only to be wrong at each instance. Of course, the murderer is revealed at the end in an ingenious fashion that only the Queen of Crime could manufacture. This is where I have a problem. Half the fun of this book is the idea that none of the folks on the island were the murderer. It is entirely plausible in context of the plot that none of them were the serial killer. The ending is almost a cop-out on a really good, ambiguous story. In this case, I hated to find out who the murderer was. This novel is a definite headscratcher, and will take the reader on a really fun ride with interesting characters and a fantastic plot. The ending may fall short of expectations, but it’s a pleasure to read. One by one, I’ve listed my favorite Agatha Christie novels in the past weeks. It’s come time to say And Then There Were None.
What’s that movie you’re dying to see? Is there a TV show you can’t stop talking about? Tell us! Chris Surprenant and Rachel Bolton will discuss anything and everything pop culture on The Chronicle’s podcast. Email Rachel at boltonr413@strose.edu or
Chris at surprenantc572@strose.edu with questions today!
February 28, 2012
Volume 80 Issue 24
Opinion
Why I Fell In Love With London Caroline Murray is a communications major currently studying abroad at Regent’s American College in London. By CAROLINE MURRAY Former Ad Manager It has been a little over a month since I have arrived at Regents College London and I already feel like I have seen the world. In reality, I have only scraped the surface, but for someone whose favorite vacation place is Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, these last few weeks have been somewhat surreal. I’m still recovering from a long weekend in Edinburgh, Scotland. After a sleepless, nine hour bus ride to the little “magical” city, my travel-mates and I were ready to crash at our hostel – a cute little establishment, complete with game rooms and a café, with a £10.00 a night price tag and perfect location. However, as soon as we stepped off of the coach bus, we were blown away by our immediate surroundings. The city was beautiful, old and charming. It has gigantic mountains on the outskirts and what seemed like a castle on every corner. After asking about five friendly faces for directions to our hostel, we eventually found our way and dropped off our bags. The first thing we did was climb Arthur’s Seat, a mountain that was formed by an extinct volcano hundreds of millions of years ago. Although we were all incredibly beat, we shook off our tiredness and headed up the trails. It was windy and we were poorly prepared for the adventure, but our adrenaline and determination led us all the way up to the top, an 822 foot climb! The view from the top of the mountain was unbelievable. I could not refrain from singing and dancing to “The Hills Are Alive” from The Sound of Music while taking it all in. It surely was an accomplishment and marks one of the best things I have done since I arrived in Europe. It was free, too!
Besides castles and mountains, Edinburgh is also host to the birthplace of Harry Potter! The Elephant House is a small café where J.K Rowling wrote her first, second and third novel, and is located right in the heart of the city. Although I have never been a huge fan (I just do not have the patience to read the entire series), it certainly was interesting to see where all of her inspiration came from. Anywhere in the city could have been mistaken for Hogwarts. I could not help but feel captured under a spell while exploring this city. Although visiting Edinburgh was an amazing experience, it is always nice going back to a city like London. I fell in love with London the day I arrived. The architecture, its history, the fashion, and the countless pubs on every city street, there isn’t much to not like about it. While staying here, I am fortunate enough to live in one of the most fantastic locations in London. Regents College is located in Regents Park, which is owned by the Queen. During my free time, I enjoy taking a stroll outside the college. Whether I am by
myself or with a group of friends, it is always an exciting journey. Sometimes I will take the tube (subway) to Covent Garden, which is not much of a garden at all, but a place for street performers, lavish shops and farmers markets. Perhaps one of my favorite areas to visit is Camden market. Here, is where one can find a more eclectic scene. This area is full of open-air markets, where you can literally find a 200 year old English Painting and a Star Wars lunch box under the same roof. When I do not feel like taking public transportation, I find myself venturing out to the busy streets of Oxford or Piccadilly Circus, which could easily be mistaken for 42nd Street or Time Square. Surprisingly, London reminds me a lot of New York City, but quainter and cleaner. Everything here, from the food to the fashion, the college to the nightlife, is similar to that of an American lifestyle, but finely tweaked. There are just enough distinguishes to make me and the other American students feel like we are indeed abroad. However, I never feel too far away from home.
COURTESY OF CAROLINE MURRAY
Caroline Murray atop Arthur’s Seat in Edinburg, Scotland.
The Chronicle
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The View from Venus How I Know Sexism Exists By ANDI BOYHAN Women’s Initiative
csrwomensinitiative@gmail.com
Some people my not think sexism is a problem in their lives. We all know that women are still getting paid less than men, and we have had discussions about how show-business likes to depict women, but it really goes much deeper than that. Sexism is all around us – in our school, in the streets, and even within our groups of friends. Some people just do not notice it, but once you start looking, you realize it is everywhere. Over this past semester, I have noticed more and more how the fact that I am a woman changes how I am treated, and how people perceive me. Here are five ways sexism has affected my daily life, and I am sure it will soon seem all too familiar. 1. What does your father do? When riding the CDTA, you are bound to strike up a conversation every now and then with a stranger. One rainy morning, I happened to sit next to an old businessman who decided he wanted to talk to me. Fine, nothing wrong with a friendly chat, right? So first he asks me if I am a student, to which I obviously reply ‘yes’. And what is his next question? ‘What does your father do?’ What does my father do? WHAT DOES MY FATHER DO!? What does that have to do with anything? How does his occupation effect this conversation? And how do you know my father does anything? How do you know my mother is not the one bringing home the bacon, and that my father does not fry it up in a pan? If you are asking about me, ask about ME. I am not my father, and what he does has little to no effect on me. Of course I did not say this; instead I politely replied ‘Oh, he does something with computers. I’m not really sure.’ But the question really irked me, and I actually have not been able to stop thinking about
it since. I just do not see why he asked me that and why he would assume my father even did anything. 2. Will you give me a hand? It is no secret that Saint Rose has a lot of ladies. In fact, it is about 60% female. I do not know about the art department specifically, but I think that three is about the average amount of males in my art classes. Now, not all of these males are exactly ‘buff’, and do not get me wrong, not all of the girls are super muscular either, but I definitely would not say that all of the guys are stronger than all of the girls. And yet, whenever there is something that needs to be moved, or if a shipment comes in, who do you think gets asked to help out? I may not necessarily WANT to participate in manual labor during class, but I am certainly just as capable and so are most of the other females in the room. Just because someone is male does not mean they are any better at picking up a bag of clay or pushing a chalkboard. If I were one of the guys being constantly asked to move this or carry that, I would not be pleased, and as a female I am personally insulted that I am not considered just as qualified to do these mundane tasks that only require a slight amount of energy. I mean really, do you think my female arms are so fragile they cannot pick something up? Or maybe you think I am going to trip on my skirt? Or will not be able to see with all of my beautiful, flowing hair in the way? I am NOT going to break a nail nor am I going to hurt myself. ASK ME FOR HELP!
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Opinion
The Chronicle
February 28, 2012
Volume 80 Issue 24
It assumes that everybody believes in a supernatural power or a god. I am an atheist, a humanist, and a Bright; how am I supposed to answer this? What if I was a pagan that believed that the gods were beings which are to be bargained with and appeased but not necessarily moral? What if I were a Buddhist or a Jainist? What if I just do not care? Are these theological and philosophical positions wrong? Will I get points taken off because I do not believe the way that is presented in the
clubs (which is something that happened at a wellness fair I attended two years ago). A political action group trying to ban abortions and advocates abstinenceonly education is not an appropriate selection for a wellness fair. A religious organization is not an appropriate choice either unless you are willing to include more diverse opinions. When you do not do that, you send a message that proclaims that there is only one way to be well and that way involves anti-abortion activists, church and exercise. Now, do not get the wrong idea; I would gladly do the nonphysical education parts of the gym packet if they were presented in relevant courses or offered as a separate multiple credit "wellness course". In fact they already are. The College of Saint Rose is a liberal arts institution and features a wide array of classes that do the things the wellness packet fails to do. We have a religious studies department and philosophy department to cover matters spiritual and ethical. We have an English department that includes the Frequency North visiting author series. We have a science department that is not only intellectually challenging, but it also invites researchers to come and give talks. Every department is doing something related to the wellness packet. Following the liberal education guidelines pretty much covers everything in the packet without going over ideological lines or ham-fistedly shoving material where it does not fit in. The problem with the “wellness” packet is not just that it is weird, poorly implemented and ideological; it is also redundant and unneeded.
The Necessity of the Wellness Packet. Not.
By VINCENT GABRIELLE Contributing Writer I have a confession to make. I have never filled out the “You are special” card in the gym packet. I have never assembled a kit in case of an earthquake and I have never followed the behavioral contracts I have made. This means that I am “unwell” according to the Phys-Ed Department. But what is this “wellness” that these packets purport to enhance and are the methods in the packet effective? The Phys-Ed Department has decided to assign wellness a whopping seven dimensions: Spiritual, Physical, Emotional, Career, Intellectual, Environmental, and Social. The packet has corresponding sections designed to address these dimensions, a workout regimen for physical, a “research” section for intellectual, and a mandatory trip to the career center and so on. The packet also asks that you sign “Behavioral Change Contracts”
for five of the dimensions which ask you to set a realistic selfimprovement goal and a reward for achieving the goal. But what constitutes a healthy change and what constitutes a realistic goal especially in the abstract dimensions of wellness? I know that increased physical activity is a good goal for physical behavior, but what is “improved spirituality”? How are you supposed to grade that? How do you know what a good goal is? These questions are not adequately answered by the materials provided in the packet nor are they addressed in the gym classes I have taken. The packet was always an afterthought, thrown in at the last second and barely addressed during class. With this kind of treatment, the packet is inevitably under addressed and poorly implemented. If "wellness" is the goal, this is certainly not achieving it. The packet does not just fail because it is usually an afterthought; the content of the packet is of dubious quality and looks
SABRINA CASTROVINCI
The Physical Education Portfolio or Wellness Packet must be completed by every student who enrolls in a gym class.
randomly pasted together. The Spiritual section is particularly egregious. “How has your education at the College of Saint Rose prepared you to embody courage in the future?” (Their emphasis, not mine). What kind of question is that? How is one supposed to know if a college education makes one courageous? What if your answer is that college has not impacted your level of courageousness? How is this question supposed to be graded? The question is confusing in context and is often left unaddressed in classes. I would like to have a discussion about this in a “wellness” course, but I am not taking a “wellness” course, I am taking swimming and we are doing 30 laps today. Without room in a course for discussion, the entire section makes no sense and adds nothing of value to a class. The Spirituality section continues with another question like this (again their formatting not mine): "List one way the Physical Education course prepared you to nurture respect for and the commitment to life-long learning in the future?" Grammatical errors aside, this section makes no sense at all. Since when is it the job of my swimming teacher to “instill a respect for life-long learning”; is that not something better left to other departments, like say Humanities, Arts and Sciences? I will surely gain a great respect for life-long learning between badly choreographed “self-defense” sequences in which muggers are thwarted by flailing. Finally, we come to the worst part of the section. First, it bizarrely quotes the “National Interfaith Coalition on Aging” and lists some criteria for meaningful “Spiritual Wellness”. Then, it goes on to ask (but not in bold this time) “What higher power or God determines your values, ethics and morals?” This question is horrible and presumptive. It assumes that people are incapable of forming their own values and must have them imparted by some outside supernatural power.
I know that increased physical activity is a good goal for physical behavior, but what is “improved spirituality”? packet or because I do not believe at all? Is this an appropriate question for a gym class to ask? These questions get to the heart of the problem with the packet; the "wellness unit" crosses the line by blurring the personal ideology of whoever wrote the packet and the subject at hand. It does this without consideration for what an appropriate level of work is for a single credit course and for what the domain of a Physical Education Class should be. A phys-ed class should not try to be a ladder to enlightenment, should not evaluate your beliefs, and should not be where you stretch intellectually, emotionally or spiritually. A phys-ed class should not require you to attend a “wellness fair” featuring pro-life activists and religious groups alongside booths hawking gym memberships and hiking
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February 28, 2012
Volume 80 Issue 24
Opinion
A Lookback at Strose
The Chronicle
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Winter Word Search
SAINT ROSE ARCHIVES
Rosemarie Roesch and Paula Anguish practice taking photographs of Patricia Lace. Rosemarie and Paula were staff members of The Rosevarian, the College’s newspaper from 1940 to 1967. Patricia is using equipment in the Language Lab, which was located in the Library. It was used to learn and practice foreign language skills by listening to audio. (Archives)
Sudoku
http://www.puzzles.ca/wordsearch/winter.html
http://www.printable-sudoku-puzzles.com/
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Sports
The Chronicle
Sayonara to Burnett
By JOSHUA NATOLI Staff Writer The front office of the New York Yankees suddenly found themselves with seven starting pitchers in their laps before the start of spring training. That is quite an unusual position, especially for the Yankees. So, what is a team with a plethora of starting pitching to do? Trim the fat. Once the Yankees acquired Michael Pineda in the Jesus Montero trade, and signed free agent pitcher Hiroki Kuroda, the eyes of the staff and the fans went right to AJ Burnett. When you play for the New York Yankees, two things can happen: you will either be loved or hated. Now, when I say hated, I don’t mean being just booed off the field, I mean you’re lucky if you make it home unscathed. Yankee fans grew tired of Burnett after he would pitch six unhittable innings, only to give up a three-run home run late in the
game and get a loss. They also weren’t fond of Burnett digging himself into a four-run hole before fans could take a sip of the ten dollar beer they had just purchased. When the Yankees signed AJ Burnett, they had hoped he would be quality second starter behind the recently acquired CC Sabathia. The Yankees picked up Burnett for five years at $82.5 million in hopes of winning a World Series, which they did. Burnett finished the year with thirteen wins and nine losses with an earned run average just above four. He was also a main piece to the postseason starting rotation of himself, Sabathia, and Andy Pettitte. Burnett could not carry his 2009 postseason success into the 2010 regular season. He finished out the season with ten wins and fifteen losses and an earned run average over five, all career worsts. He also could not conjure up another great postseason run
WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Burnett has 125 wins and an ERA of 4.10 in his career.
as the Yankees lost to the Texas Rangers in the ALCS. Yankee fans hoped Burnett could finally turn his game around in 2011, but he could not. Instead, he left fans worrying every time he took the mound. He bettered his record, finishing with eleven wins and eleven losses, but could not bring his earned run average below five for the second straight year. He could not help the Yankees in the postseason either, after losing in the ALDS to the Detroit Tigers. The Yankees took action after two dismal years of Burnett. They decided that one World Series wasn’t enough return on investment for the 35 year old. Burnett was shipped to the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchanged for two lowlevel prospects and a shaving of $20 million off of the remaining $33 million the Yankees owed him. Trading Burnett is one of the smartest moves the Yankees have made this offseason going into spring training. Starting pitching was obviously a big concern for the Yankees after the postseason. The trade for Michael Pineda gave the starting rotation a much needed boost of youth and skill. Many speculate over his record, but you have to remember he was pitching for the Seattle Mariners, one of the most lackluster offensive teams in the league. The signing of Hiroki Kuroda gives the Yankees a short term gain and more time for the Yankees’ pitching prospects to prepare for their major league debuts in 2013. This left Phil Hughes, Freddy Garcia, and Burnett to fight it out for the fifth starting spot. With both Freddy Garcia and Phil Hughes pitching better than Burnett, it was only a matter of time before the Yankees shipped him off. Now the Yankees are left with a starting rotation without any major holes. We will see how that holds up when the regular season starts. For Burnett though, it’s on to the next one.
February 28, 2012
Volume 80 Issue 24
Rivera Retiring? A furor of speculation surrounds the possibility theore four could be down to one after this year By MICHAEL SMITH Staff Writer
Rivera seems intent on keeping his decision a secret until season’s end, he told the media that Last Monday, Mariano Rivera he only told his family, and that reported to the Yankees spring apparently includes Derek Jeter. training camp. Upon arriving, “You’re not going to get anyRivera spoke with the media and thing from me about Mo,” Jeter an interesting moment occurred. said. “Mo told you what he wantWhen asked if he planned to ed to tell you. He’ll share his retire at the end of the season, thoughts and opinions with you Rivera responded by saying, “I when he’s ready. I’m not going to know now, I just don’t want to tell sit here and get into the speculayou. I know now. tion about what I will let you people assume “When he decides guys know when he meant. That’s I think I should up to him. I’m to retire someday, tell you.” not going to get whenever that may involved in that. This began be, we all hope he’s You appreciate a whirlwind of speculation that going to be wearing the him while he’s 2012 would be here. I think evpinstripes. No doubt eryone should Rivera’s last year in the majors. just focus on that about that.” He is entering as opposed to if Hal Steinbrenner the last year of and when he’s his contract, and going to retire.” he enters this year with 603 saves, When Jeter was told that Rivetwo ahead of Trevor Hoffman for ra said he only told family, Jeter most all-time. The closest active laughed and said “I guess I’m player is the Blue Jays’ Francisco family.” Cordero, 276 behind Rivera. Jeter makes a great point, even As you can expect, the Yankees at the advanced age of 42, Rivearen’t exactly ready to let him ra is easily the best closer in the go, Hal Steinbrenner, the team’s game. Most people would say he managing general partner, made is the best ever, so enjoy watchthat clear. ing him. “He’s obviously a lifelong Everybody knows that athletes Yankee,” Steinbrenner said. have a shelf life, some longer than “When he decides to retire some- others, but they can’t last forever, day, whenever that may be, we all even the great ones. In Rivera, hope he’s going to be wearing the Jeter, and Alex Rodriguez, the pinstripes. No doubt about that.” Yankees have three of the greatWhy wouldn’t they want him est players in major league histoback? With how dispensable re- ry. All throughout the year in the lievers have become in recent ninth inning, you will see all three years, it is hard to believe any- players on the field at once. body challenging Rivera’s save So if you are a baseball fan, numbers. Rivera also holds the take it in and appreciate it beall-time postseason saves record cause three players of that talent with 42, Brad Lidge being 24 be- level are truly something to marhind. He also is the owner of the vel at. best postseason ERA of all-time with a staggering .70 in 141 innings.
February 28, 2012
Sports
Volume 80 Issue 24
The Chronicle
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Golden Knights Finish in Style By CONNOR HICKS Contributing Writer In an emotional final game, the Golden Knights concluded their season on a high note against the University of New Haven, notching a 73-70 win. The Golden Knights played
incredible defense all night, forcing 19 turnovers from a solid New Haven team. They saw four players reach double digit scoring and, once again, took down a team headed to the NE-10 tournament. Junior guard Andre Pope led the way with 18 points, while se-
KELLY PFEISTER
Senior Brian Hanuschak setting a pick for senior Rob Gutierrez.
niors Rob Gutierrez and Sheldon Griffin each contributed with 14 and 15 points apiece. Sophomore Dominykas Milkas added in 15 points, respectively. The Golden Knights saw themselves trailing by eight points in the first six minutes, but continuous stellar shooting from the guards and domination by the big men saw them take a 17-16 lead with just under nine minutes to go in the first half. The Golden Knights would finish the half shooting over fifty percent from the floor, and they would continue the run to finish the first half with a commanding 35-26 lead. New Haven came out of the gates hot in the second half and immediately went on a run to cut the lead to one with thirteen minutes to go. It remained a tight game until the Golden Knights caught a spark from a play that could only be made possible by teammates who have been playing together for a while. Rob Gutierrez stole the ball, dribbled the length of the court and threw a no-look lob that was caught and viciously thrown down by fellow senior Sheldon
KELLY PFEISTER
Rob Gutierrez looking to pass the ball to Dominykas Milkas. Griffin. “We’ve been playing together for five years so I pretty much know at all times where he is on the court. I saw him running on the right side and I knew if I threw it up he was going to catch it,” said Gutierrez of the play. The play immediately brought fans to their feet and the Golden Knights cruised to the finish line from there. Another emotional moment came when the third senior, Bri-
an Hanuschak fouled out of the game. Cheers of “Big Brian!” rang through rows of home section as he walked off the court for the final time. Rob Gutierrez knocked down a few free throws, and just like that, it was all over. “It’s been an awesome ride. Coach Beaury is a hell of a coach and I wouldn’t want it any other way. It’s been awesome playing with those guys and I’m going to miss it,” said Gutierrez.
Track and Field Concludes 2011-12 Season at Armory By JACKSON WANG Sports Editor On Thursday, the men’s and women’s track and field team completed their 2011-2012 campaign at the Armory Collegiate Challenge in New York City. Just like they’ve been doing all year, another new school record was set that afternoon. Sophomore Jessica Razy once again broke her own school record in the 200 meter with a time of 25.56 seconds placing her in 10th place. This was the seventh time Razy has bettered her own record in the two years as a Golden Knight. Razy wasn’t the only one keep-
ing up with the success. Sophomore Soroya Hudson continued her phenomenal year in the triple jump by placing third in the event with a vault of 11.67 meters. Off the track, junior Briana Del Bene showed off one of her strongest performances of the year in the weight toss with a lob of 13.43 meters placing her in sixth place. On the men’s side, first year Golden Knight Robert Robinson continues to shine off the track in the long jump. Robinson placed third in the event with a jump of 6.85 meters. Robinson has surpassed the 6.5 meter mark three times this year. Another top-10 finish came
from senior Ryan Saunders who finish seventh in the 60 meter with a time of 7.16 seconds. The Armory Collegiate Challenge concluded the Golden Knights track and field team’s 2011-2012 season. Some Golden Knights will have to wait and see if they qualify for the NCAA Indoor Championships which is held at Myers Fieldhouse of Minnesota State-Mankato on March 9th and 10th. Next up for the other athletes of the track and field team will be the outdoor season. COURTESY OF SAINT ROSE SPORTS INFORMATION OFFICE
Sophomore Jessica Razy holds the school record in the 200 meter.
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The Chronicle
Sports
February 28, 2012
Volume 80 Issue 24
Men’s Basketball Finish Season on High Note
Golden Knights end their 2011-2012 campaign with a 73-70 win over University of New Haven. For the full story, see page D15
KELLY PFEISTER
Dominykas Milkas looking for the ball in the paint.
KELLY PFEISTER
Sheldon Griffin setting a pick.
KELLY PFEISTER
Brian Hanuschak posting up with the ball.
KELLY PFEISTER
KELLY PFEISTER
Rob Gutierrez looking to get the ball to Dominykas Milkas.
Andre Pope attacking the basket.