face unique challenges facing graduation
EDITORIAL: International students deserve protection pg. 12
Plattsburgh students care for community
BY ABIGAIL
Staff Writer
On Saturday, April 26, over 260 volunteers participated in service events across Plattsburgh in an attempt to help out the community and build better relations.
SUNY Plattsburgh’s annual Day of Caring, organized by Project Help, fosters better relations and service through volunteer opportunities that directly affect our town and the people in it.
Project Help is a board of students who work to find opportunities for our students to get involved with service projects. The office strives to meet the needs of the community while providing meaningful events in specific areas of interest.
Alison Herbert, a project help coordinator and sister of Theta Phi Alpha sorority did outreach to see where we volunteers are most needed in our community.
“The community members I interacted with when assisting in organizing the sites were so grateful for the offer and excited to be a part of this campaign. Although there were some who had to decline due to logistical issues or already having events for that day, they were happy that we thought of them when planning our sites,” Herbert said.
Students were able to sign up through Cardinal Link and opportunities were first come, first serve. Possible areas of volunteerism were environmental projects, such as cleaning up Camp Tapawingo, food and clothing drives, participating in nursing home activities, helping out with the animals at the SPCA, community assistance with the elderly, disables and local businesses with yard and spring cleaning and highway clean ups through the adopt a highway program.
The Project Help office is located in the Angell College Center room 203, in
partnership with the fraternity and sorority life office. Although the two offices are related and most of the staff is a part of fraternity and sorority life on this campus, service opportunities are open to all students to join, especially the Day of Caring events.
Miyu Kameyama, a junior political science major and project help coordinator for two years assisted in the planning for Day of Caring.
“Students need to get involved with service projects provided by project help because it is meaningful and fun. There are so many opportunities for students outside of fraternity and sorority life to give back to the Plattsburgh community and Day of
Students do community service constantly through project help, but day of caring is meant to foster relationships with our students and community members that directly need assistance. The day is also a time to reflect on the importance of being involved in the community.
“This single day event allows us to all come together for one mission; to use our talents and abilities to help those who need it. The different sites are scattered throughout the county, giving us the chance to work with nonprofits that we may not always have the chance to and improving our community relations while giving back,” Herbert said.
This year, Project Help offered 10 different sites with multiple different time slots for each site. With over 260 volunteers, they doubled their number of participants from last year. Many of the participants were from fraternity and sorority life organizations, which fostered growth between members of different organizations and people in the community.
Brooke Aussicker, president of Alpha Epsilon Phi sorority, mandated all members to participate for at least two hours at a Day of Caring event, although many members went above and beyond the expectations.
Students think campus too distant about recent international student deportation
BY CHRISTIAN TUFINO Staff Writer
Across the country, the federal government has been targeting international students to revoke their student visas suddenly. SUNY Plattsburgh sent a notice that one of its international students was targeted and had their student visa revoked via email, April 11. According to the email, the student’s visa was revoked April 10. The message also included resources for legal and personal counseling for international students from the Plattsburgh Global Education Office and the New York State Office for New Americans.
This was the only notice delivered to students by the school of the situation. Students on campus feel generally left in the dark by the lack of communication past the sole email.
Simone Domenick, junior at SUNY Plattsburgh, thinks the school hasn’t said enough regarding the international student.
“The only email I was made aware of was the school’s official statement on the matter, where they briefly talked about how they’ve communicated with other SUNYs,” Domenick said. “But for the person who lost their visa, I’ve heard nothing from the school.”
No press release or other post has been published on any official SUNY Plattsburgh social media. With many students getting their news from their phones and keeping tabs on the school through social media, the notice flew under the radar.
Domenick originally heard about the situation through word of mouth, and only realized an announcement was sent to his email after looking for it after the fact.
Kamren Harden, junior at SUNY Plattsburgh, thinks the school could be doing more to keep its students informed and aware.
“I read my email everyday, but I don’t think everybody on campus does, so I definitely think it should be a bigger thing on campus, instead of over email,” Harden said.
The message of the email was also not the strongest, Harden said. Enyedi wrote in the email that the school will “continue to monitor the situation,” but no action was stated for ensuring the safety of the student whose visa was revoked.
“Outside of teaching and educating students, the top priority of the school should be protecting the students 1000%,” Harden said.
Domenick shares the same sentiment that the school has an obligation to protect its students.
“When your parents drop you off here, you expect to be in good hands, and that’s essentially what the school is promising, especially if students are allowed to dorm on your campus,” Domenick said.
The national-scale deportation of international students had been in headlines since Mahmoud Khalil’s arrest March 8. With students locally being affected, students are on edge.
“I feel like this hits really close to home. I’ve heard about it happening to other students on other campuses, but I never thought it would happen on the same campus I live on,” Harden said. “I never believed it would happen so close to me.”
Caring is the perfect way to do so,” Kameyama said.
Provided by Simone Domenick Simone Domenick, Plattsburgh Junior.
Provided by Kamren Harden Kamren Harden, Plattsburgh Junior.
Provided by Project Help
Three student volunteers raking leaves unearthed after the winter snows melted in this year’s Day of Caring April 26.
PASSAFIUME
Unrestrained springtime fun
Photos by Hiram Cowhey
Students take advantage of the warm weather by playing spikeball in Memorial Field Monday, April 28. With a high of 68 degrees, Monday was one of the warmest days of the year so far.
Student Simon Melgarejo hits a rad kickflip in the Yokum parking lot.
Two dogs excitedly trot on their walk.
A group of friends plays a card game on a picnic blanket by Hawkins Pond.
A student juggles a soccer ball.
Check out our partnered stories with PSTV! Nothing
JAYNE SMITH/Cardinal Points
PHOTOSPREAD - In Issue #2, Joey Panzarella is misidentified in a cutline. In Issue #9, Alex Rudnick’s name is misspelled.
A&C - In Issue #9, “Arts festival unites campus,” the event’s attendence was higher at this year’s event than last’s.
If you see an error in Cardinal Points, email cp@cardinalpointsonline.com.
A group of volunteers celebrate a job well done with a selfie in the rain April
CARING
Continued from page 1
“Alpha Epsilon Phi participates in Day of Caring in order to give back to the Plattsburgh Community and benefit those outside just the SUNY Plattsburgh Campus.
Through Day of Caring, Alpha Epsilon Phi was able to volunteer across Plattsburgh, profiting many different locations and members of the community. As an organization, we push daily to fulfill these expectations and create the difference we’d like to see,” Aussicker wrote.
Members of Alpha Epsilon Phi were encouraged to go to different events than other members to meet new people within our school while volunteering. This helps relations between organizations members to grow, bettering the fraternity and
sorority life community as a whole.
Aussicker volunteers through project help consistently and just won The Gordon Muir Fraternal Camaraderie Award at the Fraternity and Sorority life awards on Sunday April 27, which honored her for her volunteerism and love for helping out the greater Plattsburgh community.
As students a part of the Plattsburgh community, it is important that we get the opportunity to give back to the community that has given so much to the students and school. Volunteering is the easiest way to thank Plattsburgh and see real change.
“We, as college students, experience a level of privilege that many do not have, especially in Plattsburgh. A large number of Plattsburgh citizens live in poverty and if you have the opportunity to, you should always do your best to help
others who need it. Day of Caring helps us give back to Plattsburgh, which we should take advantage of by showing up and being present as we volunteer,” Herbert said. If you missed Day of Caring, you can still get involved in community service and activities through project help. Ongoing opportunities are listed in Cardinal Link and are available to all students. Don’t wait until next year to get involved, your volunteerism could make a huge impact in someone’s life.
Cardinal Points is about to host its editor board elections for next semester. If you have interest or experience in newswriting, photography, page/graphic design or management, conisder joining us at our student-ran publication! You can take the practicum for credit, or join us as a club member for fun!
Contact Editor in Chief Michael Purtell at cp@cardinalpointsonline.com or managing editor Jayne Smith at jsmit114@plattsburgh.edu for more information!
MEETINGS: WARD 110, MONDAYS @ 7:00 p.m.
Provided by Project Help
26.
Welch, Tonko rally draws attention to possible budget bill Medicaid cuts
BY CARLY NEWTON Press Republican
Vermont U.S. Sen. Peter Welch and NY20 Representative Paul Tonko said their visit to Plattsburgh Monday, in a district neither of them represent, was driven by potential cuts to Medicaid in the upcoming budget bill.
“I think the effort to alert people as to what’s going on (is why we’re here),” Tonko, a Democrat, told the media in his visit to New York’s 21st congressional district.
“I’m just concerned that if we’re going to win this, public info is very important. I think we need everyone that’s concerned about this and obviously, every congressional district has a number of people concerned.”
Tonko said in the NY-21 district, 295,000 people qualify for Medicaid.
“There’s 535 (members of) Congress and how each of us votes is going to affect folks on Medicaid in every part of this country,” Welch added.
“If Medicaid goes down, Vermonters are going to be hammered and really hurt … So we’re here — I’m here — because I want to protect Vermonters, but I know that unless we get the votes to oppose this raid on Medicaid, everybody’s going to suffer.”
The rally drew well over 100 constituents, many of who audibly shared their satisfaction with the representatives coming to the area, to the VFW Post #125 on Boynton Avenue in the City of Plattsburgh.
Elise Stefanik, the Republican NY21 congresswoman, was not in attendance, nor were New York U.S. Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand and Chuck Schumer, both Democrats. One attendee had a large sign asking where each of them was while thanking Welch and Tonko for showing up.
Asked if their visit to the North Country was a means of putting pressure on Stefanik to vote against the bill, Welch instead said his goal was public awareness.
“Because, again, all of us who have this job, we have an obligation to listen to our constituents, and what I’m trying to convey is we’re playing with reality,” he said.
“The clock is ticking. The reality is Trump wants to have a huge tax cut. He wants to pay for it significantly by taking away health care. and that’s wrong, absolutely wrong. and I think as folks in this community, our communities, realize that this is serious, they can speak to
their own representatives.”
Earlier this month, the House and Senate passed a revised budget resolution for fiscal year 2025. Both Welch and Tonko claimed the budget bill will line the pockets of billionaires and Medicaid coverage for Americans will have to suffer because of it.
Tonko said that resolution instructs the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which he is on, and which has primary jurisdiction over Medicaid and other health care programs, to cut a minimum of $880 billion in spending.
“How are you going to, you know, implement these cuts?” Tonko said.
“If you took all the programs under the umbrella of Energy and Commerce and totally wiped them out, you would come up with probably $135 billion. So that’s a sixth of the $880 billion floor, and I can tell you, there’s a lot of thirst to go and cut Medicaid, and so we have to be careful, we have to be vigilant, and we have to raise our voices,” he continued.
“They’re brutal, they’re drastic and it’s done in a vein of illegal, unconstitutional, unprecedented and destructive action on programs that range from health benefits to programs that you have paid into. They’re not entitlements. They’re earned benefits.”
Lisa Morrow, a member of the 1199 Service Employees International Union at Champlain Valley physicians hospital for 22 years, shared her own story about Medicaid and how important it is in her day-to-day work and life.
“Every day at work I see how Medicaid (allows) … small children everywhere, the elderly, our neighbors receive the health care that they need and deserve. If Medicaid gets cut, these people aren’t going to have that health care,” Morrow said.
“If they’re not coming to the hospital, we’re not going to have jobs … the Medicaid cuts just cut everything. It hits home because my sister’s multiple sclerosis forced her into Medicaid. She worked as long as she could until she just couldn’t walk anymore, and now she relies on Medicaid and Medicare for all of her health care. I can’t even imagine if they have this work rule that they want to do … work requirement for people on Medicaid. There’s no way. She couldn’t do it.”
Monday’s rally did not sit well with some area Republicans.
In a statement last week ahead of Monday’s rally, City of Plattsburgh Republican Chairperson David J. Souliere IV called it appalling and disagreed with the assertion Medicaid was facing cuts.
“As Chair of the City of Plattsburgh Republican Committee, I find it rather appalling that the Democratic Party has decided to bring two members (of) the Senate/Congress, both of whom do not represent the 21st Election District, one whom doesn’t even represent the State,” Souliere wrote, “to gaslight, and grandstand the hardworking residents of the greater Plattsburgh area, about the non-existent cuts to Medicaid, and Medicare from the Federal Government, while ignoring the mass exodus of people from the great upstate region, due to 4 years of liberal policies from the Biden Administration, and radical leftists in Albany, leading to high taxes, stagnant growth, and rapid inflation.”
“The people of the North Country are smart, they don’t need to be lectured by Washington Bureaucrats that don’t directly represent them, about issues that aren’t real,” he continued.
“Let’s work together on the issues that are real, and make Upstate affordable, and safe again.”
Canadians booking far fewer US visits
BY ROB GILLIES AND JIM MORRIS Associated Press
Diana and Rick Bellamy initially planned to take a Caribbean cruise out of Houston before heading to Laurel, Mississippi, to visit the home of one of their favorite HGTV shows, “Home Town.”
The Calgary couple scrapped those plans and vacationed last month along Mexico’s Pacific coast instead, put off by U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war with Canada, the insults he’s hurled at their homeland, and stories about American border agents searching people’s phones and detaining foreigners for minor reasons.
She found it ironic that she felt more comfortable traveling to Mexico than the U.S.
“I never thought I would hear myself say that,” Diane Bellamy said.
Trump’s attacks on Canada’s economy and threats to make it the 51st state have infuriated Canadians, who are canceling trips to the U.S. in big numbers. They also seem to have also flipped the narrative heading into Canada’s parliamentary elections on Monday, with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal Party surging after trailing far behind in the polls just a few months ago.
A STEEP DECLINE
The U.S. gets more visitors from Canada each year than from any other country, according to the U.S. Travel Association, an industry trade group, which said the 20.4 million visits from Canada last year generated $20.5 billion in spending.
But there has been a big drop in foreigners traveling to the U.S. since Trump took office, and Canadians are no exception. There were more than 910,000 fewer land border crossings from Canada into the U.S. last month than in March of 2024 — a more than 22% drop — according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection data. An Air Canada spokesman, meanwhile, said Canada-U.S. flight bookings for April through September are down about 10%.
Trump brushed aside the decline in tourism to the United States on Wednesday, saying, “There’s a little nationalism there I guess, perhaps. It’s not a big deal.”
TRAVELER WORRIES
Since Trump started his second term, there have been well-publicized reports of tourists being stopped at U.S. border crossings and held for weeks at immigration detention facilities before being allowed to fly home at their own expense.
On March 3, Canadian Jasmine Mooney, an actor and entrepreneur on a U.S. work visa, was detained by U.S. border agents in San Diego. She was released after 12 days detention.
Before Mooney’s release, British Columbia Premier David Eby expressed concern, saying: “It certainly reinforces anxiety that ... many Canadians have about our relationship with the U.S. right now, and the unpredictability of this administration and its actions.”
The Canadian Association of University Teachers, which represents faculty and staff at Canadian universities, warned its members against nonessential travel to the U.S. due to the “political landscape” under Trump and reports of Canadians encountering difficulties crossing the border.
Academics who have expressed negative views about the Trump administration should be particularly cautious about traveling to the U.S., said the group.
“People are scared to cross the border. I don’t know what Americans are thinking, quite frankly. Are they that oblivious?” said former Quebec Premier Jean Charest, who has family in Florida.
Mike Sauer, who runs a community policing center in Vancouver, said he and his partner have no interest in traveling to the U.S. now because of Trump’s politics and border fears. One of Sauer’s concerns is that if a border guard were to check his cellphone, the guard might see his past purchases of marijuana, which is legal to buy in Canada and about half the 50 states but is still illegal under U.S. federal law.
“The States have a different view on drugs. They could certainly look at my phone and see I’m 420-friendly,” he said, meaning he’s marijuana-friendly. “I think it kind of depends on which border guard would have a problem with that and which ones wouldn’t.”
Dietra Wilson, 32, said when she was younger, she often visited Detroit, which is just across the border from Windsor, Ontario, where she and her husband, Ben, own a secondhand shop. She hasn’t visited much in recent years, though, and she said she’s heard of people’s worries about crossing the border since Trump moved back into the White House.
“It’s worrisome,” she said.
Ben Wilson, 37, also has qualms about trying to cross.
“Why would I want to?” he said. “Regardless of the tariffs, if I’m going to be stopped at the border for my phone or something somebody texted me, why go?”
INDUSTRY WORRIES
The drop in Canadian tourism to the U.S. led California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a frequent target of Trump, to announce an ad campaign this month meant to lure Canadians back to his state, citing a 12% year-on-year drop in February.
McKenzie McMillan, a consultant with a Vancouver-based travel agency, The Travel Group, said the company’s bookings to the U.S. have dried up. “We have seen a near-total collapse of U.S. business,” he said. “Probably about a 90% drop since February.”
Lesley Keyter, the CEO and founder of the Travel Lady agency in Calgary, said she’s seen people actually forfeit money to cancel their U.S. trips.
“Even if they’re going on a Caribbean cruise, they don’t want to go down to Fort Lauderdale to get on the cruise ship,” she said.
CARLY NEWTON/Press Republican Staff Photo
NY-20 Congressman Paul Tonko and U.S. Senator from Vermont Peter Welch embrace at Monday’s rally in Plattsburgh, a rare appearance in a district neither of them represent.
Cardinal Creative: Jones builds texture
art. One of her art teachers pushed her to develop her own style through the use of a different arsenal of tools and techniques.
Senior art major Katie Jones takes inspiration from her childhood in Bennington, Vermont, as well as New York and Connecticut to create her abstract interpretations of nature.
Jones has had a love for art since she was young creating art out of everything around her, including creating art out of her dinner. Jones has a painting concentration at SUNY Plattsburgh and along her journey she has evolved her artistic style.
“I used to take my recycling from the garbage when I was four, and make sculptures out of it,” Jones said. “Anything I could get my hands on I would try to create something out of. I would make origami out of my homework when I was younger and I never did the math, just the origami.”
Jones has evolved her artistic style during her time at Plattsburgh, but has always been inspired by mountains and landscapes. The curvatures of the land and the rocky textures of mountains play a big role in Jones artistic style.
“I really like nature and I love mountains and snow. I like the texture of mountains. I’ve got really bad eyesight so for me from far away all mountains just look like texture lines,” Jones said.
Jones has worked with many different mediums and techniques to find what works the best in her
“I mostly use oil paint, but I don’t use brushes. I only do palette knives. I’ve recently gotten to incorporating spray paint and stuff into my work, so I’ve gone a little more abstract with a graffiti kind of style,” Jones said Jones’ artistic process differs from her peers. She doesn’t do any sketches before painting and instead slaps paint down on a canvas and allows the creativity to flow to her as she makes out what she wants to paint. She puts down mid tone paint first, then dark paints and light paints continuing the process until the piece is completed.
Jones has always wanted to create and has been creating art for most of her life. She decided to come to Plattsburgh to pursue her creative path and become a painter and a teacher of the arts.
“I knew from elementary school I was going to be a painter. I’m going to be an art teacher and get my teaching certificate right after college. So I knew I wanted to paint. I knew I wanted to create. Nothing else was in the books for me,” Jones said.
SUNY Plattsburgh collection spotlight: Roberto Lugo
BY CAMERON GREAVES Graphics Editor
Roberto Lugo is a Puerto Rican-American contemporary artist, activist, poet and educator who works and lives in Philadelphia. He takes a unique approach to his work by combining traditional ceramic motifs with contemporary cultural symbols and figures.
His work is inspired by his upbringing in Philadelphia and his Puerto Rican heritage. His work often features portraits of important black figures such as Biggie, Tupac and Martin Luther King Jr., set against classic ceramic silhouettes.
In the Plattsburgh State Art Museum collection, Lugo’s piece “Untitled (Island Hummingbirds)” reflects his unique style. The vase was purchased by the Student
Association’s Art Acquisition Board in spring 2024. The work is a part of a series called “The Pigeon Crib,” The series reinterprets James McNeill Whistler’s “The Peacock Room” at the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art. Lugo infuses elements of his cultural background into his art. The hummingbirds depicted reference the diverse species of birds native to Puerto Rico. The graffiti element on the vessel’s neck reflects Philadelphia’s street art scene and the city’s influence on Lugo’s artistic practice. Through his ceramics, Lugo makes viewers recontextualize the traditions of the medium. The work asks viewers to reflect on who they commemorate in art and why. Lugo blends historical ceramic motifs with contemporary narratives, ultimately uplifting
marginalized communities and creating a dialogue about cultural representation. This and other artworks from the museum collection are currently on display in the Myers Fine Arts Building in room 232. If you are interested in participating in selecting the next round of objects for these cases, please contact Kara Jefts at kara.jefts@plattsburgh.edu to express your interest. This display will change with each academic year, with new selections curated over the summer. All members of the campus community are welcome to participate.
Collection Spotlight: Roberto Lugo Roberto Lugo, Untitled (Island Hummingbirds) from The Pigeon Crib, 2023, glazed stoneware, Student Association Purchase, Plattsburgh State Art Museum collection, 2024.9
BY GRANT TERWILLIGER Arts and Culture Editor
Provided by Katie Jones
Artwork created by Katie Jones.
Provided by Katie Jones
Artwork created by Katie Jones.
ROOM & DOOM
BY GUILIANNA LAURAIN Staff Writer
Guitar ensemble set to showcase jazz and pop
BY ISABELLA LAMBERT Contributor
Prepare to be transported back to the birth of jazz and bossa nova. When you see the SUNY Plattsburgh Guitar Ensemble present their Spring Guitar Concert.
Directed by Adjunct Lecturer of Music Michael Fratino, the show will feature pop and jazz music. This free show will run for about an hour and a half in Krinovitz Recital Hall, in Hawkins on Wednesday, May 7 at 7:30 p.m.
Students have met once a week, for hour-long rehearsals in preparation for the show. The performance has changed as a result of COVID.
“The approach to the performance has changed in the last couple of years, especially since COVID. Before, it was seen as a means of showing off specific skills on the instrument, whereas now it has taken more of an accompaniment role, which is absolutely fine and represents the sign of the times,” Fratino said.
Fratino chose the lineup thoughtfully, with inspiration coming from everywhere.
“It could be a situation where I’m listening to a song as I’m driving,” Fratino said. “I know that the tune will work as an ensemble piece because of all the elements it possesses.”
Fratino also mentioned that a large amount of repertoire comes from the students he teaches. They open his eyes up to the challenge of arranging pop music.
The program for the show features many contemporary songs, so that the audience will likely know the music performed and want to sing along.
“There are always interactive and unexpected moments at these concerts, especially the ones where the crowds really get into it and show appreciation,” Fratino said. “For instance, last semester the crowd took out their cell phones as lighters and started singing along with one of our tunes. Those moments are memorable for the performers.”
Have faith in yourself this week and be yourself. Have a sense of hope and enjoy life.
This week you may be looking at the bigger picture and your connections with others. Be aware of the small things in life.
This week you may be turning obstacles into opportunities. Be creative and open about new ideas and think positively.
This week you may be feeling successful in your career. You have the potential for great abundance. Keep up the hard work.
This concert is a great opportunity for students to perform and get experience playing guitar in a live setting.
Luke Gerhardt, a junior music major, is a part of this year’s guitar ensemble.
“I’m probably most excited to play the Laufey song ‘From The Start.’ I love that Laufey has popularized jazz music in my generation,” Gerhardt said.
This is the first time the guitar ensemble has had its own designated show, instead of being attached to Ringing Down The Curtain, an annual theatre performance.
“In the end, I hope the audience leaves with a feeling that whatever we presented was refreshing and not what would typically be thought of as a guitar show,” Fratino said.
Email ISABELLA LAMBERT cp@cardinalpointsonline.com
Downtown Plattsburgh Word Search
BY GRANT TERWILLIGER Arts and Culture Editor
Aleka’s Arnies Bono Campus Corner Chapter One Dress Code Hobies Incas
Retro Sip The Pepper The Strand Twisted Carrot Yama Sushi
Irises Island Vybz
Kay’Z
Koffee Kat
Monopole
Norma J Olive Ridleys Peabody’s
You may be feeling a sense of emotional fulfillment this week. This is a sign of good fortune and joy. Embrace it.
You are on the edge of new discoveries and transformations that may bring you joy. Be present in the moment and reflect.
You are working towards your goals in life. The universe is helping you succeed. Keep up the fantastic work.
This week you may feel a sense of success. Think for yourself and stand out from the crowd.
This week you may be dealing with a lack of balance and the need to make decisions. You will find stability.
This week you may be facing obstacles head on. Focus on overcoming your obstacles. All will be well.
You may be on a new path in life this week. If you experience any roadblocks, remember to stay present and reflect.
This week you may be experiencing abundance in your life. Whether this be health, finances or joy.
Aries (March 21 –April 19)
Cancer (June 21 –July 22)
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Gemini (May 21 –June 20)
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)
Scorpio (Oct. 23 –Nov. 21)
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)
Pisces (Feb. 19 –March 20)
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 –Dec. 21)
Capricorn (Dec. 22 –Jan. 19)
Aquarius (Jan. 20 –Feb. 18)
JAYNE SMITH/Cardinal Points Drummer Luke Gerhardt performs with the SUNY Plattsburgh Jazz Ensemble on April 28, 2024.
Tennis Cardinals make first playoff appearance since 2017
BY EMMA DEO Associate Sports Editor
Plattsburgh State Cardinals’ women’s tennis made their first SUNYAC playoff appearance since 2017, but fell to the top-seeded New Paltz Hawks in the first round.
New Paltz pulled away with the 4-0 win as they were victorious at No. 4 singles, No. 5 singles, and No. 6 singles. The No. 2 doubles match was unfinished, but the doubles team of senior Hallie Hurwitz and junior Kristy Cantwell was able to take the sole Cardinal win for the match.
“It’s always a big mental game when we’re playing them because you know it’s going to be a brutal match from the jump, but I think the mindset has changed from we’re gonna get beat really bad to let’s just give it all we got and see what happens,” head coach Kelci Henn said.
Cantwell said the team was extremely proud of themselves for making it to the tournament and having the opportunity to show who they are.
Tennis playoffs follow a different structure than other SUNYAC sports, as teams play their regular season in the fall and then resume with playoffs in the spring. The schedule was switched because the NCAA tennis tournament is played in the spring, so the coaches said they wanted to move SUNYAC playoffs to match.
“It’s definitely weird because you’re on the high for making playoffs and you have to wait months to go play, and we had a whole break and everything, but it just meant that we needed to get that same dedication back in the second season,” Cantwell said.
Softball
Pitching pair powers Platts for senior day sweep
OSWEGO
BY ROSIE SCULCO Staff Writer
Dominant pitching and strong bats
led the Plattsburgh State softball team (8-21, 5-9) to an outstanding close in the week as they took three out of four games in the two day doubleheader including senior day, a perfect game, and a no-hitter.
“They came together, they competed, they wanted it, and we saw that,” Head Coach Jess Miller said in an interview. “I’m very proud of all of them for that.”
Plattsburgh hosted the Oswego Lakers (10-21, 3-10) earlier than scheduled on April 24 because of upcoming weather conditions.
The second matchup of the week against the Canton Kangaroos (0-23, 0-12) remained as scheduled on April 25.
The Cards got right after it in the first inning of play in game one of two against the Lakers, scoring three runs in the first inning.
Junior Gwen Noll led the inning off with a double down the left field line and first-year Meghan Stork moved her over to third with a sacrifice bunt.
On the same play, a misplaced throw by Oswego sent Noll to score and Stork reached and moved to second.
First-year Bella Toleman singled and then stole second, and junior Megan Pillus followed with a single up to put the team up 2-0.
Sophomore Emma Deo also followed with a single to score Toleman, but Pillus was thrown out at home to prevent the Cards from going up by more than 3-0.
Plattsburgh swept by No. 10 Cortland
BY ZIAIRE FERRELL & JUSTIN RUSHIA Staff Writer & Sports Editor
The Plattsburgh State baseball team showed resilience across its three-game SUNYAC series against nationally ranked No. 10 Cortland but ultimately came up empty, suffering a sweep capped by a 13-3 loss Saturday afternoon at Chip Cummings Field on April 25 and 26.
GAME ONE
Senior Kolby Mordecki delivered a strong performance on the mound in Friday’s opener, tossing seven innings and allowing just two earned runs while striking out four. However, he was outdueled by Cortland ace Luis Misla, who threw a complete game and struck out a program-record 19 batters in a dominant 5-1 win.
Misla carried a no-hitter into the ninth inning before junior Kyle Cremin broke it up with a single up the middle. The Red Dragons’ lefty allowed just three hits, walked two and gave up no earned runs in the victory.
Despite the Cardinals’ struggles at the plate, sophomore infielder Jonathan Beale and senior outfielder TJ Beninati each collected singles.
Beale scored the lone Plattsburgh run in the fifth. After reaching base on a strikeout and wild pitch, Beale advanced on a walk from Beninati and crossed home on a throwing error during a fielder’s choice.
Cortland capitalized on Plattsburgh’s early defensive miscues. The Cards had two errors in the third inning, setting up a two-run single by the Red Dragons. Cortland drove in two more with a single in the fourth to make it 4-0.
Plattsburgh’s bullpen kept the game close late, but a ninth-inning error allowed Cortland to tack on an insurance run.
The Cardinals nearly started a late rally after Cremin’s hit spoiled Misla’s no-hitter and back-to-back singles from Beale and Beninati loaded the bases and brought the tying run to the plate.
Misla responded by inducing a flyout to end the threat and secure the series opener.
“Overall, I feel like I pitched a pretty good game, but there’s always things to improve on for next time,” said Mordecki. “I feel like I can pitch better with runners on, limit damage and also limit walks and hit by pitches.”
Sophomore Ava Carey prepares to serve to her opponent in Plattsburgh’s match Sept. 2.
Provided by Mae Olshansky
Senior pitcher Carly Gemmett pitching on senior day against Canton.
Provided by Mae Olshansky
Joey Di Rocco (left) celebrating a single.
BASE
Continued from page 7
GAME TWO
Plattsburgh took the early lead in game two of Friday’s doubleheader, but Cortland used a five-run fifth inning to pull away and clinch the series with an 8-2 victory.
Senior outfielder Josh Foglia and senior shortstop Alex Kornblau each went 2-for-4 with a run scored, setting the table for Cremin’s two-run single in the first inning that put the Cardinals ahead 2-0.
Junior pitcher Kaelen Clarkson kept Cortland quiet through the first three innings, but the Red Dragons tied the game in the fourth with a single, a hitby-pitch, and a sacrifice fly.
In the fifth, Cortland’s offense exploded. Back-to-back two-run doubles by the Red Dragons sparked the five-run outburst that turned the game on its head.
Clarkson took the loss, allowing five earned runs in 4.1 innings. Senior righty Nick Goldberg came in and threw 4.2 innings with four strikeouts and two earned runs.
Cortland added a run in the seventh, extending its lead to 8-2 over Plattsburgh.
Two Red Dragon relievers combined for four scoreless innings.
“There were times when our pitching, defense, and offense were all great, but we just couldn’t get all three clicking at once. That’s been our biggest issue this season,” Mordecki said.
GAME THREE
Saturday’s series finale saw the Cardinals trade punches early with the Red Dragons, battling to a 3-3
SOFT
Continued from page 7
tie entering the bottom of the sixth.
However, a massive seven-run outburst from Cortland, topped off by a grand slam, sealed Plattsburgh’s fate in a 133, seven-inning defeat.
Cortland opened the scoring in the first inning, driving in two runs.
Plattsburgh responded in the bottom half, loading the bases on a hit-bypitch, a walk, and another hit batter.
Cremin drove in senior second basemen Joey Di Rocco with a sacrifice fly to cut the deficit to 2-1.
Cortland added a run in the second to extend its lead to 3-1.
In the fourth, Plattsburgh found life against the Red Dragons’ relievers.
After allowing a walk and a hit, Cortland went to its bullpen, but still struggled to contain the Cardinals. Senior catcher Adam Wein and Di Rocco delivered backto-back RBI singles to tie the game at 3-3.
Senior Carly Gemmett rallied with her team’s offensive power and started the line of defense for her team finishing the day with seven innings, allowing just one run while striking out seven.
A scoreless three innings went by for both teams until the top of the fifth inning when Plattsburgh added on another run of their own.
Stork led off the inning with a single to center fielder and stole second after a popout.
A groundout moved her over to third, and Pillus followed with a double to left field, scoring Stork and extending the lead 4-0.
After an inning, the Lakers attempted a comeback when two balls found the outfield grass, and the next batter was hit to load the bases with no outs.
Gemmett got the next batter to strike out, and then Carlson reached on a fielder’s choice that scored a run, but also got the second out of the inning.
Gemmett forced a pop up to end the game and give the Cards the 4-1 win.
Toleman, Pillus and senior Sarah Milyko recorded two hits and Noll added a hit and a run scored.
“It was good for our team, getting a win and coming all together because we definitely needed to break that streak and we got our hits together on our field,” sophomore Michelle DeFina said in an interview.
Prior to a Laker defeat, the Cardinals lost 10 games straight, last winning against Fredonia (9-15, 6-4) in five innings of play on Apr. 11.
Game two included a better performance for the Lakers leading to their 9-2 victory over the Cards.
Two scoreless innings of play opened up the game until Oswego put a run on the board in the top of the third. Oswego then scored off an RBI in the top of the fifth to lead 2-0.
In Plattsburgh’s turn of the fifth, Sophomore Sara Issacs was 2-3, scoring two runs while earning the first home run of the season for the Cards on the first pitch to deep left field.
Oswego added one more run in the sixth inning before exploding for six runs on six hits in the top of the seventh to extend their lead 9-1.
With one more chance in the bottom of the seventh, a one-out single from Isaacs was followed by a walk, allowing DeFina to bring home Isaacs to put another run on the board.
However, the next two batters were retired, ending the game and giving Oswego the win 9-2.
Deo, Pillus, and Toleman all had a single hit for the Cards while DeFina added an RBI.
“We were told to take the win and move on with the loss because we did win like we wanted to and we needed to come into these Canton games knowing we wanted two more,” DeFina said.
CANTON
Plattsburgh celebrated three seniors on April 25 in their doubleheader conference matchup against the Canton Kangaroos.
The seniors included pitcher Carly Gemmett, utility Mikayla Manalo and pitcher/infielder Sarah Milyko.
Gemmett is part of the early childhood education program, Manalo is part of the nursing program, and Milyko is in the history program at SUNY Plattsburgh.
“The friendships and the coaching lessons that I’ve been taught throughout softball games,” Milyko said in
the seventh, but the Cardinals could not mount a rally, falling short to close the series.
Wein led Plattsburgh offensively, going 2-for-3 with an RBI, while Di Rocco contributed an RBI and reached base twice. Junior Isaiah Maines pitched two innings, and sophomore Justin Sargent worked 3.1 innings, allowing three runs and striking out two while taking the loss.
“I think the third game reflected our season because we played really good for the first half of the game, but couldn’t get the job done in the end,” Mordecki said.
Plattsburgh fell to 9-20 overall and 1-13 in SUNYAC play, while Cortland improved to 23-11 and 13-3 in conference action.
Despite the setbacks, Mordecki emphasized the team’s positivity and continued focus on improvement.
Plattsburgh nearly took the lead, but a flyout to deep right-center ended the inning.
Neither team was able to score in the fifth inning.
Cortland’s offense exploded in the sixth. After a single, a stolen base, and an RBI single gave Cortland the lead, a hit-by-pitch and a walk loaded the bases. The Red Dragons launched a grand slam down the left-field line, putting Cortland ahead 8-3.
Cortland wasn’t done there. Two more runs came across in the inning, making it a seven-run, six-hit frame and stretching the lead to 10-3.
After shutting down the Plattsburgh offense in the bottom of the sixth, Cortland added three more runs in the seventh to push the margin to 13-3 and invoke the run rule.
Plattsburgh’s Kornblau singled in
“Although we are not playing anywhere close to how we should be, we are staying positive and not dwelling on the bad,” Mordecki said. “I would say we had a lot of good moments this week; we just couldn’t piece the good moments together and capitalize.”
Plattsburgh will travel to SUNY Canton on May 1 for a conference matchup against the Kangaroos before wrapping up the season with a series against the Fredonia Blue Devils on May 2 and 3.
“We are in last place right now, but with four conference wins next week, I think we can finish the season on a high note and move into fifth,” Mordecki said.
an interview. “From games to life lessons that I’m gonna need when I’m a teacher in the future, I’m gonna miss everyone, and all the memories so much.”
Miller has been with all three athletes as an assistant coach since they have each been a part of the team.
“I think just believing in yourself and never letting that belief change, no matter what anybody thinks of you,” Miller said. “I think these kids are going to have bright futures and I’m excited to see where they end up, but just a belief and I think that’s the biggest thing for them.”
Game one against the Kangaroos made history for the Plattsburgh softball program.
Gemmett tossed a perfect game, the second in Plattsburgh’s history.
Gemmett joins Hall of Famer Jaclyn (Leitze) Weber, who was perfect in 2006 against Thiel College.
A strong offensive performance to follow as the Cards scored 14 runs on 11 hits in the 14-0 win.
The offense struck as early as the first inning, scoring nine runs on five hits and one error.
Noll stole home to open the scoring, and Pillus concluded the inning with a two-run double to put Plattsburgh up 9-0.
Gemmett struck out eight batters she faced to finish the third inning.
In that same inning, the Card’s added four more runs on four hits to go up 13-0, as Pillus picked up another RBI and DeFina recorded her second RBI of the game with a sacrifice fly.
Gemmett struck out two more in the fourth and followed by adding a run in the bottom of that inning.
Junior Meghan Cox picked up her first career hit while first-year Gianna Montes had her first career plate appearance, drawing a bases-loaded walk to earn her first career RBI also.
In the top of the fifth inning, Gemmett left no doubt and struck out the Kangaroos to finish the game
Megan Pillus was 2-2 with a double and three RBIs, and Gwen Noll was 2-3 with three runs scored and three stolen bases.
“All of them knew that we could do this and it was just about getting the opportunities to and I think they came
together when they needed to.” Miller said. “To be able to work hard, get the wins, and just believe in each other when we need to, these games are big for us right now.”
History was not only made once, but twice as junior pitcher Morgan Ormerod threw a no-hitter in the second matchup against Canton.
Ormerod became the second Plattsburgh pitcher to do so as Kristina Maggiacomo did the same at Canton back in 2023.
Plattsburgh got the scoring started in game two early as well in the bottom of the second inning as first-year Mikayla Pappas drove in DeFina with an RBI single to left field to lead 1-0.
The Cards recorded six runs on six hits in the fifth inning with DeFina earning a two-run double to left field. Because of the run-rule, the game-winning run was on second, however, Canton was able to get two outs, ending the inning to guarantee another.
In that next inning, Ormerod went 1-2-3, allowing her team to score one run and get the no-hitter.
A two-base error set them up and another error followed, putting two runners on.
Stork came through for Ormerod, singling in Pappas and ending the game.
Five Cardinals had multi-hit games, with Toleman and DeFina each doing so while also earning a double, a run, and at least one RBI as DeFina drove in two runs. Pappas was 2-3, driving in a run and scoring twice.
“I think that our energy has been extremely high in the last few days, and we’ve been really motivating each other and pushing each other to do better, not only for ourselves, but for the greater good of the program, and it’s been clearly paying off,” Milyko said.
Provided by Mae Olshansky
Sophomore pitcher Hunter Eberhart checking the runner on first base April 9.
Provided by Mae Olshansky
Carly Gemmett, Mikayla Manalo and Sarah Milyko (left to right) smiling after being honored on senior day.
Abby Guasconi, Women’s Lax
Sophomore attacker Abby Guasconi had a strong season with the Plattsburgh State women’s lacrosse team. Residing from Ogdensburg, New York, Guasconi appeared in 12 games, scoring her first career goal in the season opener against Russell Sage on Feb. 27. She finished the year with three goals, while also contributing five draw controls and three ground balls.
This question and answer was conducted with Abby on April 30.
Question:How does it feel to be a contender for play of the year?
Answer: I’m grateful to have been chosen as a contender for play of the year. It’s exciting to have a goal I scored become play of the week, and then even more exciting to have it move on to be the potential play of the year.
During the game, I was driving to the net and shot the ball while I was falling. It was a moment I’ll never forget, after celebrating with my teammates who helped me up afterwards.
Q: What was your favorite part of this season?
A: My favorite part of this season was our game against Morrisville. It was our dedication game for Morgan’s message, which is an organization that is committed to improving and eliminating the stigma of mental health amongst student-athletes.
It was fun to play in a game that had a bigger purpose. Multiple people scored, and it was exciting to celebrate especially after each goal and get a win in the end.
Q: What is your favorite field that you played at in your career?
A: My favorite field that I’ve played at in my career is Potsdam. Growing up around 40 minutes from Potsdam, I played against their high school team. During my senior season, I played in a sectional playoff game on the SUNY Potsdam turf. It ended up being my last high school lacrosse game that I played. For my first fall ball season at Plattsburgh, our play day was in Potsdam, so my first game for my college career was on the same field that I played my last game for my high school; it felt like a full circle moment. With it being close to my hometown, my family and friends are able to come watch me play, and it makes it more exciting having them in the stands cheering me on.
Q: If you had to play another sport at Plattsburgh, what would it be?
A: If I had to play another sport at Plattsburgh, I would play soccer. I’ve played soccer since I was in kindergarten, and it was my favorite sport when I was younger — until I started playing lacrosse. My roommates play for the women’s soccer team here, and I love going to their games and supporting them and their team. Sometimes I’ll join them when they go shoot around on the turf, and it’s always fun playing soccer again.
Continued from page 7
The Cards will lose four total seniors to graduation — Megan Phelps who graduated in the winter, Andrea Bingham, Sophia Gottschall and Hurwitz who will all graduate in the spring.
“It was an emotional day from the start, they were just so proud of themselves. It was tough, because with this split season we had a senior (Phelps) that helped us get to the playoffs in the fall, then she graduated, so she didn’t get to play, but she was there to support us. The emotions were there and it was just a really good day,” Henn said.
Moving forward, the team is looking to continue this tradition of success they are building at Plattsburgh State. Despite the first round loss, the Cards only lost three of
their matches to the Hawks, compared to the second-seeded Oswego Lakers who played New Paltz in the championship, dropping six out of nine matches to the eventual SUNYAC champions.
This was New Paltz’ third consecutive SUNYAC championship, marking the 23rd year in a row that they made a playoff appearance and their 10th championship overall.
As announced by the SUNY New Paltz athletic department, the Hawks will leave the SUNYAC in the 2026-2027 academic year and join the New Jersey Athletic Conference, changing the landscape of women’s tennis.
“Our goal is to still uphold that standard that New Paltz set,” Henn said. “Together as a conference, all of us tennis coaches are trying to really keep that level of play. Whether that’s incorporating more into our lifts or really getting into it in our practices and dialing in but I have
no doubts that that’s going to happen. The players are all just as invested now that we’ve got a taste of it, we want more.”
“ It was an emotional day from the start, they were just so proud of themselves.
” Kelci Henn Head Tennis Coach
EMMA DEO
Provided by Plattsburgh Athletics Department
Abby Guasconi high fiving teammates before a game.
Provided by Mae Olshansky
Andrea Bingham, Kristy Cantwell and Megan Phelps (left to right) having a laugh in between sets.
Philips leaves impact on Cardinal Athletics
BY JUSTIN RUSHIA Sports Editor
After more than two years with Plattsburgh State Athletics, Caleb Philips will step down as director of athletic communications at the end of June.
Philips, has played a key role in modernizing the department’s media operations and branding efforts across all 18 NCAA sports.
Philips joined the department in March 2022, coming from Susquehanna University, where he got his start in athletic communications. After being hired as an intern, he was quickly thrust into managing the department solo following a staff departure. He later worked under Jamie Chagnon — now the sports information director at Tufts — and credits him as a major mentor.
“I got lucky in a sense,” Philips said. “I had to learn on the fly early on, but then I got to work for one of the best in the business.”
At Plattsburgh, Philips quickly became the department’s digital engine. He introduced media day content, standardized game day and final score graphics, and oversaw the transition from BoxCast to BlueFrame’s Production Truck for livestreaming. The new system allowed for enhanced customization, on-screen scoring and replay capabilities, creating a more professional fan and athlete experience.
“I just wanted to cover teams the way I would’ve wanted to be covered,” Philips said.
A former Division III pitcher at Houghton College, Philips said the limited media coverage he received as a student-athlete helped shape his mission.
“There wasn’t much of a social media presence, and coverage was an afterthought. That really stuck with me.” Philips said.
One of Philips’ goals at Plattsburgh has been to recognize athletes at every level — not just the standout stars.
“I was the guy who was good but not always in the headlines,” Philips said. “I want student-athletes here to feel like they’re seen, no matter where they fall on the depth chart.”
Philips also helped restructure the department’s annual awards show. He introduced new honors like Rookie of the Year, Play of the Year and the Cardinal Award to spotlight a broader range of athletic achievement. The changes, he said, were aimed at making Cardinal Athletics more inclusive.
“Whether you’re on the hockey team or tennis, everyone should feel like they’re part of something bigger,” he said. “You want to walk into that ceremony and feel like there’s something in it for you.”
Behind the scenes, Philips often took on much of the social media, graphic design and game-day operations, managing a growing team of student workers while balancing oversight of his assigned teams.
Since November 2023, he has worked closely with Athletic Communications Assistant Dawnisha Franklin. The two split team responsibilities by season.
“We were basically opposites in all the right ways,” Franklin said. “He had the
sports he knew best — like baseball and soccer — and I had the ones I’d played or covered before. It made our coverage more well-rounded.”
The two also brought different personalities to the office, which made for a strong balance.
“I’m more outgoing, and he’s definitely more laid-back,” Franklin said. “But it worked. Caleb was always calm, always level-headed, and when things got busy, like during doubleheaders or postseason weeks, we could rely on each other without even saying much.”
She added that Philips prioritized mental health and boundaries—something she didn’t take for granted in a field that often includes long, irregular hours.
“He’s good about reminding me to take care of myself,” Franklin said. “Especially in the winter, when everything overlaps, he’ll say, ‘If you don’t have anything urgent, head home.’ That balance means a lot.”
Philips said that approach came from the culture modeled by Director of Intercollegiate Athletics and Recreation, Mike Howard.
“Mike’s a fantastic AD to work for,” Philips said. “He never micromanaged. That’s rare in this profession. He trusts us to do our jobs and steps in only when needed. That kind of support made all the difference.”
Philips also credited former director Brian Savard for helping him grow into the role.
“Brian was a huge reason I developed professionally,” Philips said. “He let
me experiment, let me try new ideas. I learned a ton from him. Any question I had—he had the answer.”
Earlier this year, Philips was selected for the NCAA Division III Emerging Leaders Program — an initiative that brings together promising athletic communicators from across the country for workshops and networking at the NCAA national office in Indianapolis.
“That was one of the coolest experiences of my career,” he said. “It’s easy to feel like you’re working in a vacuum, especially at the D-III level. But that program reminded me there are people out there who are trying to elevate this field just like we are.”
With Philips’ departure approaching, the department is weighing multiple scenarios for how to structure the communications team going forward. Savard and Franklin are expected to remain in the department, though it’s unofficial what their roles will be next year.
“Brian and Dawnisha know what the expectations are,” Philips said. “I think the department is in a good place to move forward.”
Philips is relocating to the Chicago area, where his partner is set to begin graduate school. While he does not yet have a new role lined up, he said he hopes to remain in athletic communications, ideally within Division III.
“It’s definitely bittersweet,” he said. “I’ve loved my time here but it’s the right move for us.”
As he prepares to hand off responsibilities, Philips said he hopes the next
chapter of Cardinal Athletics will build on what’s already been created.
“Every year, we tried to do a little more,” he said. “Just small things to improve the student-athlete experience. That’s always been the goal.”
MICHAEL PURTELL/Cardinal Points
Caleb Philips working hard at his desk in Memorial Hall.
Provided by Caleb Philips
Caleb Philips sharing a laugh with head women’s hockey coach Kevin Houle.
Students still disappointed by The Nest after semester
BY SOPHIE ALBERTIE Staff Writer
With the end of the spring semester fastly approaching, there’s one lingering truth that needs to be addressed: Students still aren’t crazy about The Nest, myself included.
Earlier last semester, the college seemed to bombard faculty, staff and students with promo about the shiny new dining area replacing the Sundowner. This area would also be replacing Clinton Dining Hall in the late night food category, Clinton now closes at 8 p.m., permitting students to flock to The Nest for a dose of midnight sustenance.
Now, in less than a month, it will officially be one full term with The Nest on campus. The verdicts are in: Could be better, could be worse.
One thing is for certain — there aren’t enough options, especially after 8
p.m. So students have no luck trying to get something other than a burger or pizza if they have any after-class activities or extracurriculars.
Ari Froedden, a freshman with a gluten allergy, has mixed opinions.
“The food comes out very quickly most of the time, and there’s a nice take out system. You can sit in there without having to get food, unlike with the Clinton Dining Hall, but there’s not enough gluten free options or labeling. There’s definitely fewer options in general than Clinton, especially when it comes to late night,” Froedden said.
The supposed convenient placement of The Nest is also not so convenient for everyone, especially those who live in a far off dorm hall like Wilson or Moffit. For students like Hope Parker, it’s an adjustment.
“I think The Nest is good at making food fast, the employees also
give good service. It is convenient for many people who have classes nearby, but I’ll always prefer Clinton. It was right next to me, and there was much more diversity in food options,” Parker said.
The student body has taken their complaints to apps like Yik Yak or Fizz, platforms that give them space to express pressing — albeit juvenile — problems on campus anonymously.
It’s impossible to avoid critique completely as a dining place on a college campus, but it seems like paying more attention to the places that are currently up and running would help. As opposed to funding new resources with fewer moving parts.
Email SOPHIE ALBERTIE cp@cardinalpointsonline.com
The unknown of post-graduation causes stress for senior students
BY KALIYAH GREEN Staff Writer
Graduating from college marks a significant transition, often filled with excitement, relief and a sense of accomplishment.
Yet, the journey to graduation can be filled with a multitude of stresses that significantly impact a student during senior year. Understanding these pressures and their effects can help students navigate through this pivotal time.
The transition from the structured environment of college to the uncertain terrain of the professional world can significantly impact a senior’s mindset. Understanding these stresses and their effects can help students navigate this pivotal year effectively.
“I feel really stressed out, but I also feel as if it is challenging me to be a better worker when it comes to working under stress,” said Kalie Fowler, a senior student in the education major.
For four years, students move through a structured environment with clear expectations: attend classes, complete assignments, and pass exams. All at once, the blueprint ends and the question of “What’s next?” looms large.
One of the most significant sources of stress for college senior students is the pressure to make a career decision. With graduation approaching, students often feel the need to secure employment or decide on further education paths.
This pressure can be overwhelming as it involves choosing a career that aligns with their passions, skills and financial goals. The fear of making the wrong choice can lead to self-doubt and anxiety.
Financial pressures also weigh heavily on seniors’ minds. The realities of student loan debt, rent and general living expenses can shift the focus away from academics and maintaining a social life.
TikTok, stop giving me TV show clips please
BY KOLIN KRINER Opinion Editor
Scrolling through my TikTok for you page, I always start off by getting hilarious clips that time after time get laughs out of me. However, after about three minutes I begin getting absolutely bombarded by out of context clips of TV shows.
This is something in itself that I don’t mind. Where my anger with these come in is the fact that the clip always ends with a cliffhanger. What really pushes me over the cliff is the fact that when I go to the page to find a second part, there never is one.
And then just to rub salt on the wound — they don’t even include the name of the show, so I can’t even find it.
This is the sickening reality of the for you page.
As if TikTok isn’t ruining my attention span as is, when I finally find something that holds my attention, the ending is nowhere to be found.
It actually really irritates me.
Did this random lady who got run over by her car to save her kids live? Did those surgeons resuscitate the dying person in the OR? I’ll never know.
I can’t express my anger over this phenomenon enough. There are hundreds of accounts that do this, all of which have some sort of quiet pact to never let the viewer know what happens next.
I appreciate it to an extent. It gets the poster clicks and comments, building engagement, therefore making them more money. I respect the hustle. These comments aren’t helpful either, as they all are addressing my same question: “Show title?”
What I don’t respect though is the personal attack my for you page has made on me. If I spend an hour watching TikTok, 45 minutes of it is just these clips. I hate TikTok because of this. It’s a shame that I’m addicted to it.
KOLIN
cp@cardinalpointsonline.com
Awards
Cardinal Points has received the following awards from the Associated Collegiate Press (ACP):
ACP Hall of Fame Inducted in Fall 2010
All American
Spring 2018, four Marks of Distinction
Spring 2016, five Marks of Distinction
Spring 2014, four Marks of Distinction
Spring 2012, four Marks of Distinction
Spring 2011, four Marks of Distinction
Fall 2010, five Marks of Distinction
Fall 2009, four Marks of Distinction
Spring 2009, four Marks of Distinction
Fall 2008, four Marks of Distinction
Spring 2005, four Marks of Distinction
Spring 2004, four Marks of Distinction
Fall 2003, four Marks of Distinction
Fall 2002, four Marks of Distinction
Fall 2001, four Marks of Distinction
Fall 2000, four Marks of Distinction
First Class
Spring 2013, three Marks of Distinction
Fall 2012, three Marks of Distinction
Fall 2011, three Marks of Distinction
Spring 2010, two Marks of Distinction
Spring 2008, three Marks of Distinction
Spring 2007, one Mark of Distinction
Fall 2007, three Marks of Distinction
Pacemaker Recognition
Fall 2010, Honorable Mention 2006-2007, Newspaper Finalist
Kolin Kriner
Email
KRINER
Graphic by Mia Oquendo
Michael Purtell/ Cardinal Points
The newly renovated “The Nest” in the ACC.
International students should be protected
Across the nation, international students are being deported and having their student visas revoked because of executive orders from President Donald Trump.
SUNY Plattsburgh felt the ramifications of this closely, with one of our fellow cardinals being one of the students who was forced to leave the campus and the country suddenly.
Students have been deported across the state. Students have been affected in Binghamton University, Stony Brook University, University at Albany, University at Buffalo and SUNY Cortland.
These are not isolated incidents — they are a part of a broader attack on the harboring of diverse voices on university campuses and throughout the education system as a whole.
The international student who was deported from Plattsburgh — who requested to remain anonymous — said to Cardinal Points that they were given only vague reasons as to why their visa was being revoked. No criminal charge, conviction or other infraction was cited as a reason for termination.
This student was not given due legal process, which they are guaranteed by the constitution as a person in the United States per the fifth amendment.
International students are college students — they are classmates, organization leaders and friends. They pay tuition, contribute to local economies and often attend SUNY campuses because of targeted recruitment efforts. To target them is to threaten all university students.
Deporting them — sometimes with only days’ notices, the case with the cardinal who faced deportation — is a betrayal not just of the individuals, but of SUNY’s mission as a whole.
“We maintain a nurturing, accessible campus climate for a diverse student body where each student is valued and supported in the pursuit of their educational goals,” SUNY Plattsburgh has stated on its website.
SUNY has redirected the deported student to The New York State Office for New Americans for help navigating the legal landscape, and has allowed the student to complete their semester online as well as providing various other personal resources such as counseling.
This is a helpful cushion for the students being targeted by the sudden revocations, but it is not a stand alongside the students against an unconstitutional executive order.
International students on campus are fearful, and said they feel powerless in the current position they’ve been put in.
“I believe in God, so what happens, happens,” an anonymous international student said. “All I can do is just try to inform others to ensure their visa information is up to date.”
It is a common sentiment among international students who are struggling to find comfort in America currently.
“I came here to study and work
hard, but sometimes it feels like that is not enough,” A second international student said. “There is always this fear that something unexpected could happen.
I know I am doing my best, but I still feel like I do not have full control. I also know other international students feel the same. We all just want to feel supported and not scared about things we do not fully understand.”
As the student voice of SUNY Plattsburgh, Cardinal Points stands in firm opposition to
the sudden deportation of international students without due process — not just on our campus, but across all American campuses. To allow the removal of students without full institutional support is unacceptable.
We call on SUNY administration, from the Chancellor’s office to the leadership at SUNY Plattsburgh, to stand with students and their constitutional rights to dignity and due process, regardless of where they are from.
True crime shows profit off misery of others
BY SOPHIE ALBERTIE
Staff Writer
Gypsy Rose Blanchard is out of prison — now she gets to sit down and watch a recap of the time she killed her mom. Blanchard is probably doing something more productive with her free time the year following her release from a 10 year sentence, but “The Act,” a dramatized retelling of her harrowing story, became one of the most successful shows in Hulu history. It stars Joey King from “The Kissing Booth.”
These successful shows are not documentaries. Oftentimes, a recognizable actor is cast to portray the subject and the supporting characters of a tragic event. Drama has always existed for fiction and tall tales, but we as a society may be ignoring a major ethical dilemma when it comes to amping up a true story: should this be revisited?
It’s safe to assume that most people who consume this kind of media are hungry for a good, scary story. It’s understandable, serial killer cases and real life testimonies can be very interesting, but for the sake of
GRAD
the real people involved, just stick to the documentaries.
After premiering in March of 2019, Vanity Fair argued that this depiction “might be Hulu’s most important hit yet.”
The dramatization of real life crime is not news. More recently, “The Menendez Brothers” hit Netflix and soared to the “top-watched” list in the limited series “Monsters.” The cast list includes: Javier Bardem from “No Country for Old Men,” and Chloe Sevigny from “American Psycho.”
Most viewers would agree that these limited series and biopics vary from important to mildly uncomfortable to totally unacceptable. “Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story,” sparked outrage across social media despite its success for its brutal reenactments of Dahmer’s murders.
Between video essays analyzing and denouncing the horrific nature of the dramatized series, one can also find “fancams” or edits made of Evan Peters in his role of Dahmer. Comments on these shorts range from praising Peter’s performance to expressing sympathy for the serial killer the show
is based on. According to some, he’s just misunderstood.
It’s difficult to suggest any kind of direct correlation between making a crime story into popular media with recognizable actors and the wild cognitive dissonance that comes from learning more about a cold blooded killer. Nevertheless, something like that series becoming one of the most watched on Netflix has probably sparked morbid curiosity in viewers more times than admitted.
Serial killer fandoms are alive and kicking, and the self-proclaimed members are one of the first to watch a scene from Netflix’s “Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile,” just to say that it “wasn’t gruesome enough.”
For killers who get TV shows made about them, their legacies are far from over. Ted Bundy earrings are available to buy on Amazon for true crime fans who do a simple Google search.
Continued from page 11 Email SOPHIE ALBERTIE cp@cardinalpointsonline.com
Many students take on extra parttime jobs or internships in their final year, adding another layer of responsibility to an already demanding workload and schedule.
The stress of needing to be financially independent immediately after graduation can steal the joy from traditional senior year milestones like homecom-
ing, senior trips or simple weekends spent with friends.
All of these stresses affect students’ mindsets in profound ways. Motivation can fluctuate, with some seniors experiencing “senioritis,” where burnout and apathy set in.
Others may experience heightened perfectionism, driven by a fear that every assignment, internship and networking event must be flawless to secure their future. Mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression often spike during this year, sometimes unno-
ticed because everyone assumes seniors are simply living their best life. However, it’s important to recognize that these feelings are valid and common. Colleges can better support students by offering more career counseling, financial literacy workshops and mental health resources specifically tailored to the senior experience. Peer support groups and open conversations about post-graduation fears can also help normalize the stress and create a stronger sense of solidarity among students.
Senior year is indeed a time of celebration — but it’s also a time of profound change. By acknowledging and addressing the real stresses that come with graduation, students can better navigate their final year with confidence, strength and a greater sense of readiness for whatever comes next.
Graphic by Cameron Greaves
Graphic by Mia Oquendo
Young politicians should have more pull
BY KOLIN KRINER
Editor
With the average age of people in congress, according to Pew Research center, at 57.5 years old and the presidential candidates for the 2024 election both being well above retirement age before Kamala Harris’ name was put on the ballot, decisions are often to the benefit of those within this age group, while ignoring those growing into society.
The reality of it is, young people are working towards being leaders, they just rarely are allowed into the highest government seats.
Leaders like Maxwell Frost, the first Gen Z member of Congress, or Sarahan Shrestha, a progressive state representative in New York state, aren’t waiting to take their turn in decision making.
They’re already organizing, legislating and showing up for many of the issues older generations won’t touch, such as climate change, gun control, student debt, LGBTQ+ rights and tech regulation.
They are closer to the communities most impacted by challenges set by the current political environment, yet lack the institu-
tional support to drive policy within a system curated to older, wealthier lawmakers.
Part of this problem lies within the assumption that wisdom comes with age. However, in today’s world, younger generations are often more connected and open to change.
According to “The New Generations: Why and how they embrace Inclusivity, Equality, and Diversity” from Opal Group, “As societal norms evolve, the younger generations are often the driving force behind these changes.”
Many older politicians are decades removed from student loans, renter anxiety and the current job market. Young politicians aren’t just representing these issues — they’re also living through them.
We’ve reached a point where political ageism runs in reverse — younger politicians are treated as impulsive and inexperienced, while career politicians are coasting on the grounds of name or political party loyalty.
Since the presidency of George Washington back in 1732, the average age of a president was 54.8 years old, with none exceeding the age of 70.
That is, until the 2016 election, where
since the average has shifted to 75 years old, with Donald Trump being 70 in his first term, Joe Biden being 78 when elected and Trump also being 78 for his second term. They are both older than the third oldest president, who was William Henry Harrison nearly 140 years ago.
America has shifted towards electing elderly, much thanks to the loyalty within the primary two political parties.
According to Brittney Price at The Conversation, this is such an issue that younger voters have created a term for this: “Government by the elderly.”
These elected officials aren’t doing any favors in terms of social rights and the economy, issues that will greatly affect younger generations.
In terms of the economy, according to The Heritage Foundation, “In short, young voters are experiencing a complexity of economic stress. This includes a dramatic rise in the cost of rent and mortgages that has led many to move back in with their parents; a drastic increase in the cost of higher education that has saddled them with college debt; and limited job opportunities, even for those with college degrees.”
The effects of the economy affected many aspects of younger generations’ lives, from affording housing to even getting an education. These issues are caused by older generations in office neglecting the needs of those who will be running the country before long.
Young politicians aren’t just the future of politics — they are the present. They deserve more than a seat at the table. They deserve the microphone, the gavel and the power to lead.
They are prepared to make the decision we as a society need for those growing into it, we just need to work together to allow them to have the power to make these decisions.
One approach could be age limits for politicians. This would ensure that people elected could hold a happy medium between the youth and the elderly. This would help ensure that we are crafting a country we have room to grow in rather than suffer in stagnation as a result of current happenings.
Email KOLIN KRINER cp@cardinalpointsonline.com
Opinion
Graphic by Kolin Kriner
