The Hofstra
HEMPSTEAD, NY VOL. 79
Issue 14
Chronicle
THURSDAY february 6, 2014
KEEPING THE HOFSTRA COMMUNITY INFORMED SINCE 1935
Snowed in Winter storm closes school twice -足A2 Photo by Che Sullivan Alex LoPinto, a senior psychology major, shovels around her car Wednesday afternoon after Hofstra canceled classes as a result of Winter Storm Nika.
NEWS
A 2 • february 6, 2014
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School closing called an overreaction by students, staff
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www.thehofstrachronicle.com
203 Student Center (516) 463-6921 Editor-in-Chief Samantha Neudorf Managing Editor Sophia Strawser Business Manager Jake Nussbaum News Editors Magdalene Michalik Ehlayna Napolitano Entertainment Editor Katie Webb Sports Editor Sean Williams Assistant Sports Editor Mike Rudin @ Hofstra Editor Jana Kaplan Assistant @ Hofstra Editor Isabela Jacobsen Editorial Editor Jacquie Itsines
Photo by Che Sullivan Parts of North Campus remained covered on Wednesday after snow and ice came through on Tuesday night.
By Ehlayna Napolitano news editor
Hofstra’s decision to close the University on Wednesday because of the hazardous weather was met with skepticism among students and employees. Class was called off for a second time this week after Winter Storm Nika brought a bout of snow and ice to campus. The first snow day was on Monday. However, in spite of the “worsening conditions,” cited in the Campus Alert Notification Network message sent out on Wednesday morning, students felt that the cancellation of classes was an overreaction. Due to the closing of the University, Public Safety and Grounds
department officials were unavailable for comment. The decision did not seem to garner support among the employees clearing campus. One Grounds employee, who declined to give his name, stated that his department was “absolutely”
port for the efforts of the Hofstra Grounds employees, saying that they felt that the cleanup of the campus was going well. “[They] did a good job with the streets,” said Jason Park, freshman finance major. Alex LoPinto, a senior psychology major, felt similarly, stating that Grounds staff often had to work around cars that weren’t previously moved during plowing — something that wasn’t their fault, and something she was guilty of herself, she said as she shoveled around her own car. LoPinto expressed support for their efforts, which she said typically begin early in the day, and said that the department’s salting of the sidewalks and plowing are
“Should we have had school today? Absolutely. We were ready.” prepared for the storm, and as a result did not agree with the University’s decision. “Should we have had school today?” the Grounds employee said. “Absolutely. We were ready.” Students also expressed sup-
generally done to the best of their ability. “They do a really great job,” LoPinto said. “[They] already [have] people out by 7 a.m.” Both LoPinto and Park agreed that canceling classes was an unnecessary move on the part of the university. “[We] could’ve had school today, honestly,” said Park. By early Wednesday afternoon, the cleanup for the storm was nearly completed, according to the employee. He stated that the cleanup process had gone relatively smoothly. In spite of the skepticism regarding the decision for a snow day, students did not feel negatively toward the call. “Why wouldn’t I be [happy]?” Park said. “I’m catching up on sleep and … being lazy.”
Copy Chief Ben Suazo Assistant Copy Chief Elizabeth Merino Photo Editor Che Sullivan The Chronicle is published every Thursday during the academic year by the students of Hofstra University. The Chronicle is located in Room 203 Student Center, 200 Hofstra University, Hempstead, N.Y. 11549. Advertising and subscription rates may be obtained by calling (516) 463-6921. The Chronicle reserves the right to reject any submission, in accordance with our written policies. All advertising which may be considered fraudulent, misleading, libelous or offensive to the University community, The Chronicle or its advertisers may be refused. The products and opinions expressed within advertisement are not endorsed by The Chronicle or its staff.
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NEWS
february 6, 2014 •
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A 4 • february 6, 2014
NEWS
The Chronicle
Hofstra Dance Team peps Super Bowl crowd By Briana Smith staff writer
The Hofstra University Dance Team bundled up in gray pants, jackets, hats, gloves and scarves to warm up the Super Bowl audience at the MetLife Stadium this past Sunday. The team was the Super Bowl’s official “Warm Up Crew.” Their main goal was to “warm up” the crowd and intensify excitement. The Dance Team spends their year practicing for upcoming collegiate games and events, and their annual Universal Dance Association National
games, the team was ready to entertain the crowds. “I am definitely excited. It has been a long process, and it was time consuming, but it is definitely exciting,” Olsen said. “Also, I did not realize how exciting it would be until we started hearing everyone’s reactions and how excited they were for us.” Oscar Espinal, a junior speech communication and political science major, was proud of the Dance Team for receiving so much publicity and representing New York. “I believe that the Hofstra girl’s
“They needed a dance team and the first people they thought of was us.” Championship in Orlando, Florida. This year, they were invited to take part in the nationally renowned Super Bowl XLVIII in East Rutherford, New Jersey. They prepared days in advance for this large-scale opportunity, presented to them by two Hofstra alumni and former Dance Team members who work for the NFL, according to Dance Team coach Kelly Olsen. “They needed a dance team and the first people they thought of was us,” said Olsen. Kiersten Unangst, a sophomore Dance Team member and math major, enjoyed pepping up the crowd for one of the biggest sports event of the year. “[The team spent the day] moving around the stadium’s perimeter having dance-offs, hula hoop contests and more, and the winners received giveaways,” said Unangst. “I loved interacting with the crowd and seeing how excited they were for the game.” After the extensive process of background checks, practicing and creating fun and interactive
Dance Team being chosen to hand out hand warmers and other warm up articles before the big game to the fans was a great way to show people from all over the country how New Yorkers come together and work as a team,” said Espinal. Although the Dance Team was unable to stay to watch the game, they had nothing but positive remarks to say about their experience. “This experience exceeded my expectations,” said Bradle. “I was living a once-in-a lifetime opportunity while doing something I love and brightening the days of the NFL fans.” Alicia Napolitano, a sophomore Dance Team member and marketing major, said that working at the Super Bowl was something that she will never forget.
Continued on A5
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NEWS
SGA WEEKLY WRAP UP Compiled by Nico Machlitt
Continued from A4 “It was such an amazing experience to share with my best friends. The fans and other workers had such great energy, which distracted us from the somewhat cold weather,” Napolitano said. As a former Dance Team affiliate herself and now the dance coach for 11 years, Olsen said it was an honor for her to see her dancers perform at the Super Bowl. “The most memorable moment was when the team was putting on a show at one of the stages,” said Olsen. “Seeing them in front of a crowd and providing such entertainment was great. The fans were having so much fun.” After countless hours of increasing the crowds’ adrena-
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• Nonsense hearing recap: Nonsense magazine will keep its office. They are on probation and will have to follow SGA and Hofstra’s policies. SGA will be checking on them to see if they need to have their office and if they are producing work. • Clubs: The new clubs moved into their rooms. A “Meet the Clubs” night was proposed to be hosted at Hof USA. A club booklet or directory was proposed to be made to increase club memberships. A club night was proposed to happen for all clubs to work together to host small events together to raise money for Relay for Life. • Rules: The English Society (English Literature) brought constitution amendments that were passed. • Spirit committee: Men’s basketball CAA bus is planned for fans to go see the team in play at the tournament in Baltimore. • Student Services: An ATM at Dutch Treats has been suggested. An online poll will be taken for more water filtration systems. A Blue Beetle schedule that goes to the LIRR more often has been suggested. The LIRR schedule and the Blue Beetle schedule do not line up and that is becoming a problem. A new schedule is to be proposed by April 1. All food prices are supposed to the same on campus, although size inconsistencies were brought up as a concern.
line, spending quality time together and taking pictures to capture this unforgettable moment, the Dance Team headed back to Long Island. Before leaving, they were able to hear the first “National Anthem” sung by the opera singer, Renee Fleming, along with an array of fireworks and military helicopters fly over the stadium. “We would love to do it again,” said Olsen. “However, this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with this team of 20 dancers and two coaches. I know that some of our team members will go on to dance on a professional team and will hopefully get to experience a Super Bowl again!” Photo courtesy of Kelly Olsen The Hofstra Dance Team poses at MetLife Stadium on Super Bowl Sunday.
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O ve r h e a rd @ H o fst ra Compiled by the Hofstra Chronicle staff In Breslin: Professor: What are the costs of drug dealing? Death. In Au Bon Pain: Girl: I love the first day of classes... but then I hate the second day on. Outside Enterprise: Girl: What was the most exciting thing you did all break? Guy: I watched my brother crack his head open... and then I f***ed s*** up on COD. Girl: How productive of you. In Brower: Guy 1: Do you ever buy text books? Guy 2: I used to... until I overdrew my account. In Adams: Guy: It’s French, oui? In Student Center: Girl: I’m convinced one of my professors has a crush on me. She called on me when I didn’t even have my hand raised! In Café On The Quad: Girl 1: How is it that I already have 3 exams and a paper due? Girl 2: It’s the second week of classes. In professor terms, that’s a lifetime of preparation.
Outside Au Bon Pain: Guy: If life was The Hunger Games, I’d be Rue. Girl: You watch The Hunger Games? In Breslin: Girl: Some people spend their breaks catching up with friends or reading books. I spent it eating everything in sight. In Student Center: Girl: The f***ing groundhog was right. I hate the winter. Outside Hofstra Hall: Guy 1: Have you ever been inside? Guy 2: No. It reminds me of the place they signed the Declaration of Independence. In The Netherlands: Girl: I’d choose hot water over good sex anyday. On the Unispan: Girl: Are we in the same class? I think we are. I’m going to pee myself. Just kidding. In Class: Professor: Who are these beer ads targeting? Girl: Irish people. Professor: Excuse me? We prefer whiskey.
We’re always listening......
On the Unispan: Girl: The Red Bull girls should be the adderall girls.
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February 6, 2014 •
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Hofstra student brings Irving Berlin’s music to life By Jana Kaplan FEATURES EDITOR
Irving Berlin is best known for writing “Yankee Doodle Boy,” “White Christmas,” and “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.” But there are a lot of songs many people had never heard of, and a Hofstra student helped to revive some of Berlin’s work. Jack Saleeby is a sophomore theater major and recently co-starred in the two-man cast recording of “Irving Berlin’s
America,” written and directed by ASCAP award-winning playwright and director, Chip Deffaa. Alongside the film, television and stage veteran, Michael Townsend Wright, Saleeby belted out some of Berlin’s most cherished songs, such as “I Love a Piano” and “Alexander’s Ragtime Band,” on the cast album, which was just released on Jan. 24. He was also the first person to ever record “Blow Your Horn,” a Berlin rarity that hasn’t been heard in a century. In fact, Berlin himself once
feared the original, unpublished arrangement was impossible to sing. Saleeby admits that it couldn’t be sung alone. “The way both melodies match up with each other,” Saleeby said, “they’re just really contrasting, but when you sing them together, they fit.” So despite the initial intimidation and difficulty of the song, Saleeby gushes that being one of the first people to record one of Berlin’s songs “was really
“In America, we are free to be ourselves and be exactly who we are and not apologize.”
an honor for me.” Saleeby grew up on the stage. One of the first musicals he ever performed in was “Annie Get Your Gun,” written by Irving Berlin. At the time, that name meant nothing to him — but now, it represents the world … or America, at least. Saleeby jumped into this project back in Sept. 2012 as he was just settling in to college life. He noted that there were only three rehearsals between Sept. 2012 and Jan. 2013, and after that, they had a mere three recording sessions before the album release almost a year later. Because “it was very independent” and everyone on the project often went a month or two without seeing each other, Saleeby doesn’t deny the fact that it was a challenge. “I had to put a lot of personal time into it, but … it was a great reward for me and it was worth every minute spent.” “I really only hit the tip of the
Photos by Chip Deffaa Jack Saleeby records and choreographs his own tap-dancing for “Irving Berlin’s America.”
iceberg when I first came into the project, in regards to my knowledge of [Berlin] and his music,” Saleeby said. But because “We really found some beautiful gems with this piece,” he felt that they were successfully able to introduce everyone to Irving Berlin through his music. “Irving Berlin’s America” tells the story of Irving Berlin, “the most popular songwriter in history.” Composer Jerome Kern once said Berlin is American music, and Jack agrees. “I think it all comes back to identity and self,” Saleeby proclaimed. “In America, we are free to be ourselves and be
exactly who we are and not apologize. And I don’t think Irving Berlin did [apologize] and that’s why I think his music is so special, because it’s him.” Saleeby even compared Berlin’s strong sense of self with that of Miley Cyrus — unapologetic and proud. When asked what he hopes to accomplish once he leaves Hofstra in 2017, Saleeby admitted, “I want to be successful and have a job.” He added, “As long as I’m having a dialogue with the audience and the audience walks away with something, that’s what I want to achieve when I graduate.”
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Dorm Room Dish: Dinner with a side of decadence
By Janet Lee STAFF WRITER
Welcome back Hofstra students! As we kick off with a new semester, here are some new dormroom dishes you can make with your friends! This dish is sautéed mahi mahi with basmati rice. The first thing you are going to want to do is to have the rice made. Here is a stovetop method for the basmati rice. First, in a medium saucepan, rinse 1
cup rice (two or three times) with cold water before cooking. Then, in a medium saucepan, fill it with 1 1/2 cup water and cover it with a lid. You are going to bring the rice to a boil. Make sure the saucepan is closed while it cooks. When it boils,
lower the heat and let it simmer for 12-14 minutes before turning off the heat. Finally, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the rice sit for another 5-10 minutes. For the fish, marinate it in lemon juice, pepper, and some
“You will need: 1 bag of Oreos, 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 8 ounces of meltable chocolate.”
Photos by Janet Lee This chocolate cake looks like gluten, it tastes like gluten, but it’s gluten free!
dried herbs. Then, sauté it in a pan with butter and garlic for about 10 minutes. For the final step, grab a plate and serve the rice on the bottom. Then, lay the fish on top and enjoy! Here is a recipe for a great desert-like snack: Oreo Truffles! You will need: 1 bag of Oreos 8 ounces of softened cream cheese 8 ounces of meltable chocolate Here’s how you make it: 1. Using a blender or food processor, add the Oreos until
they are broken into fine crumbs. 2. Add the cream cheese in large chunks and pulse it a few times until the consistency is dough-like. 3. Prepare a baking sheet and make sure to Photos by Janet Lee spray PAM No need to spend money dining out when you can make on it. mahi mahi for yourself. 4. Then, roll the creamsheet. cheese-and-Oreo concoction 9. Sprinkle the Oreo/cream with your hands to form a round cheese balls with sprinkles. ball and place it on the baking 10. Finally, refrigerate them sheet. until they are firm. 5. Refrigerate them until As the weather continues to they’re firm. stay in the cold temperatures, 6. While those are sitting stay in and test your cooking in the fridge firming, pour the abilities, but most importantly, meltable chocolates into a take advantage of this microwave-safe bowl. opportunity to bond with your 7. In a saucepan, fill the pan friends or your roommates! with water and place the bowl Make sure you plan ahead and of chocolate in the pan. As the stop by Stop & Shop or Target water boils, stir the chocolate and double check you have all until it melts. the necessary ingredients and 8. Dip the Oreo/cream cheese utensils! balls into the melted chocolate and place them on the baking
How to make your resume stand out By Priyanka Jaisinghani SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE
We put our heart and soul into creating the perfect resume and cover letter for many different organizations in hopes of getting an internship. Sometimes our efforts are fruitful, and other times it doesn’t end up happening. Now you’re stuck. What can you add to your resume when you don’t have an internship? Should you let the semester slide by and just try again next semester, or the summer? The answer is NO! You don’t let the semester go to waste. You take advantage of what you have and take some initiative. As
a senior at Hofstra, I’ve been in the same boat. There are many things you can do besides an internship to market yourself. You have four years of college- take advantage of it and expose yourself to new ways to make it count. 1) Start your own blog: For all of you who don’t have a blog yet- go create one! Whether it’s on WordPress or Tumblr or Blogger – just do it! More and more organizations are asking for your writing samples to see your voice and style. Assignments and personal works are great to hand in, but a personal blog shows your knowledge in either a specific field you choose to write about or a variety of topics.
Market yourself and show them what you are made of. Create a dynamic online presence. 2) Volunteer: Volunteering is such a great way to both give back to the community and add experience to your resume (if you want to). Although companies are looking at your internship experience, they also want to know you’re a well-rounded person who cares about the world. You can practice new skills through volunteering and enhance the ones you already have. When you have your dream internship in mind, there will be many skills that go along with the job. Build up those skills by volunteering in those
specific areas. 3) Get involved on campus: Build your leadership and teamwork skills by getting involved on campus. Hofstra has so many clubs you can get involved with. Hofstra has political clubs, adventurous clubs, sports clubs, health related clubs, pre-professional clubs and more. These clubs are a great way to expose yourself to new perspectives while also meeting new people. You will hear throughout your college career that networking is the key to everything. Someone you could be with in a club could have similar interest as you or end up somewhere you want to work. Network and have
fun. We have so many resources at our disposal at Hofstra- take advantage of them and use them. 4) Start your own project: You don’t always have to follow the path taken. Take an initiative to do more and start your own project. Go write that proposal you’ve always wanted to write, take up that extra Photoshop class and go make that mural. Go forward with something you want to learn or have always wanted to do. These are only a couple of ways in which you can add to your resume. Take advantage of your resources and make every semester count.
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February 6, 2014 • A9
And the award for Best dressed goes to...
By Danielle Santucci SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE
Name: Eric Biss Year: Senior How would you describe your style? I think my personal style just kind of reflects myself. I’m free and love color. I’m not afraid to take chances! I don’t think “style” is definable in one word. One day I can dress more casual, the next I’m preppy, and the next I could dress more classic, it all really depends on what my mood is by the time I get to my closet! What would you consider your signature item? I always need a good pair of sunglasses, even when it’s shady out! Preferably my Gucci’s! Who are you inspired by and why? Fashion stylists, designers, and enthusiasts on social media inspire a lot of my looks. Instagram is one of my favorites because you can follow almost any brand and anyone who inspires you. They show me what colors I can mix and match, how to layer looks, and how to accessorize. Where do you shop? I shop at different places for different things. For clothes GUESS, H&M, American Apparel, and Cotton On, Polo Ralph Lauren, Express, and Banana Republic. For accessories, I shop at Gucci, Michael Kors, Armani Exchange, and Etsy. I buy my shoes form Steve Madden, Aldo, Cole Haan, and Nike.
Name: Samantha Giordano Year: Junior What is your major/minor? I’m a junior and a dance education major. How would you describe your style? Dressy hipster hobo. I like to either wear a lot of accessories and get really dressed up or I like wearing oversized flannels or sweaters. What would you consider your signature item? Anything gold studded. Who are you inspired by and why? I love Lana Del Ray. Her style is so unique and wild. Where do you shop? I like to shop at Urban Outfitters, Necessary Clothing, Tobi, and Brandy Melville .
HOFSTRA OPERA THEATER PRESENTS: L’Ivrogne Corrige &
Dido and Aeneas
The opera was performed at the John Cranford Playhouse from
lovers, Dido and Aeneas (above) and L’Ivrogne Corrige (not pic
Chelsea Laggan and Joe Brigandi starred as lovers Dido & Aeneas.
Elizabeth Sarian and Marilyn Oliver as the Sorceress and Witch (above).
January 31 to February 2 and tells the tragic story of two
ctured) follows the lighthearted story of two drinking buddies.
Elisa Galindez, Chelsea Laggan, Alexis Minogue and Joe Brigandi in two scenes.
Photos by Phil Marino / Spread by Che Sullivan
A&E
VOL 79 ISSUE 14
Photographer Jenn Smulo’s wanderlust series - B2 Photo by Katie Webb
B 2 • February 6, 2014
FORM: Jenn Smulo foreign sites and altruistic insight By Katie Webb Arts & Entertainment Editor
Bit by the wanderlust bug at a young age, sophomore Jenn Smulo knew travel and photography were for her ever since a trip to Santa Cruise Island, California. On a National Geographic Noah Project, a field study to document the environment, Smulo picked up her first camera. The affinity for photographing far off locations appears in her Mexico Citycentric work on display in FORM gallery February 3 – 7. The series was taken last year in Mexico. The possibility of abandoning this snow-covered
campus for a warm sojourn is teasingly thematic. The photos seem almost familiar, an ease and comfort in their color. Luminous fuchsia bougainvillea flowers are strewn above wires on street posts leading surreptitiously down a worn cobblestone path. The path disappears at a bend, but it’s easily imaginable you keep walking. Smulo’s pictures present a sweet, soft side of Mexico City that it is easy to forget exists. “Don’t listen to the stigma, it’s beautiful there, the food is amazing and the people are so friendly,” said Smulo. More than just a lust for travel,
A&E her work shows the people and culture she encountered with subtly. No intrusive close-ups of simpering faces appear. The shots are taken from a distance, she is immersed in the scene but not disturbing it. Musing over pursuing documentary photography as a career, Smulo seems enchanted. “Going somewhere, taking a series of photos, telling a story. That’s what I like,” said Smulo. The way she takes photos, intimately seeing the Mexican culture and wanting to share her view of the place, is how she approaches another passion. A public relations major, Smulo simply wants ‘to help people.’ Her desire to showcase what she sees extends past pretty locations, starting with helping a family member. After her grandfather got hurt
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and had to move to a retirement home, he was robbed of 300 dollars. The event became a catalyst for Smulo seeking awareness for those who cannot take care of themselves. “It opened my eyes to how little help they [retirement home residents] get, I want to do something about it,” said Smulo. Her passion extends further with her intent to aid those with special needs as well. It seems an arduous task, marrying a moral code with a free-spirited need for artistic expression and adventure. Yet, a genuinely admirable feat Smulo has already begun in her Mexico City series. Photo by Jenn Smulo “These are whimsical, you’re Photo was taken on trip to Mexico City. not suppose to stare at them for hours to discover a meaning,” to see the humble anthropologist said Smulo. burgeoning from her work. Apt, for it takes just a minute
Hofstra Opera Theater: “Dido and Aeneas” and “L’Ivrogne Corrige” brilliantly entertaining By Jessica Braveman
preparation before a show, usually filled with last minute changColumnist es and multiple run-throughs. And last week was no exception. Hofstra Opera Theater Every year the Music Presents: “Dido and Aeneas” and Department sponsors one of its “L’Ivrogne Corrigé (The Reformed biggest events of the year — the Drunk.)” Opera. Every spring, the first week of Hofstra Opera Theater perthe semester, the Playhouse is formed “Dido and Aeneas” and bustling with musicians, frantically “L’Ivrogne Corrigé” on Friday, running around. Tech week, as Jan. 31-Sunday, Feb. 3 in the it’s referred to, is the final week of John Cranford Adams Playhouse. Under the direction of Isabel Milenski and Conductor Adam Glaser, Hofstra Opera Theater put on a wonderful performance. Each show was divided into two halves: the performance of “Dido and Aeneas,” a short intermission, and the performance of “L’Ivrogne Corrigé.” Operas are often thought of for being long or drawn out, but use of two shorter shows kept the audiPhoto courtesy of Phil Marino Chelsea Laggan as Dido singing of her ence engaged for the mourning.
entirety of each show. “Dido and Aeneas,” by Henry Purcell, is a dramatic love story based on Book IV of Virgil’s The Aeneid. The opera follows the story of Dido, Queen of Carthage, and her love for Aeneas, Prince of Troy, who Photo courtesy of Phil Marino eventual abandons her, Ensemble’s performance of “The Sorcerers’s Lament.” leaving the Queen in ing color to reflect the mood of entertaining, with each cast despair. the scene — glowing a mellow bringing slightly different eleThe title roles are played yellow as the character frolicked ments to the operas. “Dido and by Chelsea Laggan and Joe in the gardens, but turning an Aeneas,” the more serious of the Brigandi on Friday and Sunday, eerie green when the sorceress two operas was characterized by and Christina Russo and Alex took the stage. its dazzling vocals and elegant Lavoie on Saturday. “L’Ivrogne Corrigé” used only choreography, while “L’Ivrogne “L’Ivrogne Corrigé,” by one set, a simplistic bar scene, Corrigé” used fake, stereotypiChristoph Willibald Glück, is moving only a platform when cal French accents and clumsy comedic opera telling the story of necessary. movements to send the audience a drunkard’s desire to marry off Both operas were extremely into hysterical laughter. his niece to his drinking buddy, well done. They were simple, yet Milenski took the minimalistic and the hesitance he receives sophisticated, and clearly told the route when designing the show; from his family. The main roles stories in a way that ensure that the minimal use of props allowed were played by Sean Kelly, everyone in the audience underthe acting to stand out, and Deanna Grunenberg, Jackie stood what was going on. enhance it where needed. Bakewell, Ian O’Malley and Alex Hofstra Opera Theater man“Dido and Aeneas” used only Lavoie on Friday and Sunday, aged to turn abstract set ideas color changing lights hanging and by Anthony DiTaranto, and intricate story lines into easy from the ceiling, and a platform Elizabeth Sarian, Sophia to understand shows, that could that took on many roles throughStrawser, O’Malley and Christian make anyone into a fan of opera. out the performance. The lights Kas on Saturday. helped to set the scenery, changBoth shows were brilliantly
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A&E
February 6, 2014 • B 3
Top 5 Movies of 2013
a year in review
By Muhammad Muzammal Columnist
1. Her - Spike Jonze’s “Her” is the best movie of the year because it is so complete and satisfactory. The science fiction film takes place in the near future and examines the relationship between a man and his computer, a bodiless operating system that gives the man much needed companionship. Not only does “Her” excel in the basic levels of filmmaking (acting, writing, direction, score, production design), it also an incredibly ambitious and meaningful film. The society from the film is allegorical to today’s world, as people rely and depend heavily on technology. The core relationship of the movie is poignant and touching because it takes two characters of different forms and makes them have deep affection for each other. There’s a moving scene where Samantha the robot makes a piano piece for Theodore, her human. It’s entitled “photograph,” for she can’t be seen with Theodore. I interpreted it as a metaphor for love being blind. Like the entire film, this scene is emotional, esoteric and in its own way, brilliant.
2. 12 Years a Slave - Steve McQueen’s “12 Years a Slave” is an unflinching and brutal look at American slavery. It is made with heavy passion and keeps an important balance between the artistic and narrative side of cinema. The power of the film left me stunned. The memorable performances by Michael Fassbender, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Lupita Nyong’o are extraordinary as they fill both emotionally and physically demanding roles. It is a necesscary movie, the best of its kind and a transcendent piece of period filmmaking.
“Labor Day”: 3. The Wolf of Wall Street - This is the most entertaining film of the year. Martin Scorsese’s “The Wolf of Wall Street” has a savage bite, blasting rapidly past its three hour running time as it is packed with continuously unbelievable events. The film exposes Wall Street’s businessmen as modern day animals, ones who are anything but humane. Leonardo DiCaprio is electrifying and explosive as the crazed protagonist, Jordan Belfort. The film is really about greed and addiction. Those who have labeled the film as misogynistic and criticized it for glorifying criminals are as squeamish and naive as the audience in the final shot of the movie. 4. To the Wonder - There are many who will find “To the Wonder” too confusing or vague, but they have yet to skim the surface. This is a film that is full of profound dialogue from its four main characters. The film is about falling in love, but it is also about the yearning to be loved. The movie sees its single mother protagonist as a character who demands love and affection after her past failed relationships. Whereas Scorsese sees most of his characters in “Wolf” as rotten, director Terrence Malick sees a light in everyone, as “To the Wonder” features its characters always moving and dancing, as if they are full of grace and beauty. 5. The Spectacular Now - No film this year is more accurate at showing first love than “The Spectacular Now.” This small budgeted indie flick is about regrets and self-blame, depicting two main characters that, despite their different personalities, find love between them. The film doesn’t make their love foolish or misguided. The story and its characters really stick with you and the performances by Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley are more than believable. We see ourselves in their roles. Anyone who has dated in high school should view this film.
subtly sweet, but overwrought By Muhammad Muzammal Columnist
Graceful yet flawed, director Jason Reitman’s “Labor Day” is an ambitious, poetic film. The movie, which features memorable performances by its principal actors, can be seen as a coming of age story, an erotic romance, or a crime caper. The problem is that it contains too many tonal inconsistencies and a script that falters as the film progresses. In the outlandish story, Adele (Kate Winslet), the divorced mother of Hank (Griffith), encounters a wrongly convicted criminal on the run named Frank (Josh Brolin). When Adele first meets Frank, she is a broken and lonely woman, still recovering from the separation of her marriage. Frank needs a place to stay until he can continue on his journey so Adele has him stay at her house until he can escape. Over the course of five days (Labor Day weekend), the relationship between Adele and Frank deepens while Hank slowly matures. All of this is fine, the issue is that the story moves too quickly. Five days is not enough for the film’s characters to feel the emotions the story throws at them. Thankfully, Reitman’s film is well edited and as such, story time does not become much of a major issue. As the plot builds to its final act, the screenplay has its characters get into too many idiotic situations. Why does Frank decide to reveal himself to one of Adele’s neighbors, knowing very well he is wanted for his escape? Or why does he step outside the house, as the police patrol the streets, looking for him? The tone is off point as well. There are moments where I didn’t
know what type of movie I was viewing. There are a couple of moving scenes that convey the love between Frank and Adele, but there are also scenes where tension builds up like it would in a horror movie. If I had to choose, I’d like the film to be an exploration of the relationship between Frank and Adele. Reitman has directed great movies about people adapting to new environments (“Juno”, “Young Adult,” “Up in the Air”). If more attention was paid to their relationship, and how they dealt with such a major change in their lives, it would be a much more focused and affecting motion picture. The small instances where Adele and Frank’s love is shown are lovely and not too melodramatic. The scenes have a certain elegance which separate them from a regular Nicholas Sparks film adaptation. Much credit goes to the actors. Winslet plays Adele as a hopeless, depressed single mother. Brolin plays Frank as a man filled with regret trying to better himself. Reitman is more than a competent filmmaker. He has flashes of brilliance here, especially during the scenes where Rolfe Kent’s soothing score compliments the various feelings of the film’s characters. If there would’ve been a stronger script and a consistent tone, Reitman would’ve had a better movie on his hands. Yet, I didn’t leave Labor Day with a bad taste in my mouth. I was impressed by the movie’s gentle and quiet ending. After the jumbled mess, the film resorts back to the relationship between Adele and Frank, capping off the movie in a tranquil and serene way. If only the rest of the film was like this, it would’ve been something special.
B 4 • February 6, 2014
A&E
TV That
Matters: Dan Harmon can do no wrong
By John Thomas Columnist
at the absolute worst episode of “Community” ever made, season four’s “Conventions of Space and Time”. The writers trade that aforementioned structure for mushy wooshy melodrama that meanders around for awkward fan service.
‘Rick and Morty’
‘Community’ As a teenager who worked at a comic book store, a lot of my friends assumed that I was an avid player of tabletop roleplaying games, and that assumption led to innumerable conversations about a topic that, for the most part, bored me. It isn’t that I had anything against crafting fantastical characters and worlds, rather that I didn’t understand the necessity of a rulebook to facilitate the fabrication of such things. I was under the misguided notion that great fiction could only come from a mind unencumbered by any sort of artificial restraints, when in truth the opposite is often the case — compelling narrative, generally speaking, thrives within a set of rules. If there’s one person in television today who understands that maxim, among the obvious many, it’s Dan Harmon. His first great work of television (we won’t count “Heat Vision and Jack” since it never actually made it to air) is “Community.” It’s defined by a strict adherence to conventional structures found first in the works of Joseph Campbell. Harmon, in a now famous post entitled “Story Structure 101 – Super Basic Shit”, adapted it on his old — but still kicking – Internet television venture Channel 101. You might find that page on the web and think that the structure is so broad and malleable that it isn’t of consequence, but I promise you it is. Just look
With his new show, a show that I think could become his and co-creator Justin Roiland’s magnum opus, “Rick and Morty” has the same structure that’s made Community so great. It is both subverted and fortified to craft a show that dares to be dynamic. We see this from the first episode. We’re presented with what is presumably the basic concept of the show, that Morty slowly learns the ropes of mad science from his grandfather, sacrificing the conventions of an ordinary life for an extraordinary mind. The moral framework of the show is tossed away when it’s revealed that Morty hasn’t actually learned anything from his adventures with Rick, and in fact will sustain brain damage from their latest foray. In fact that concept was just a fugue put on by Rick to convince Morty’s parents to basically let him use his grandson as forced labor. It’s to the writer’s credit that such a cynical development doesn’t kill the show’s giggles, which are so often contingent on an unbridled enthusiasm for the conceit of any given episode. That trick is performed yet again in the episode “Lawnmower Dog.” The immensely powerful sentient dog cyborgs unwittingly (?) spawned by one of Rick’s experiments decide to leave due to a similar fakeout by Rick as featured in the pilot. However, I actually would venture to say that the one episode so far where Rick hasn’t been able to construct a reset button for their world has been the program’s strongest. “Rick Potion Number 9,” spoilers, ends with the pair leaving their reality in total damnation, taking the place of their recently deceased counterparts in a world where they didn’t quite screw up as badly. I know, I know, I just said that Rick wasn’t able to find a reset button, and sure in a way he did, the show will go on, but it’s made abundantly clear that Morty is forever changed. The stakes are changed for the twelve year old, and with that the entire universe of the show is reformed in a somehow darker, and even more intriguing image.
Working on a student film? Creating your own album or playing a set with your band? Writing a novel? Email A&E at chronicle.entertainment@gmail.com to be interviewed for print and online exposure.
The Chronicle
Review Round-up By Kendall Gibson COLUMNIST
‘Drowners’ – Drowners The Drowners are a derivative, one-note New York hipster band who stole their sound note for note from past rock gods, yet despite all of that I like them. Their nonchalant thievery of British Rock bands comes off as a tribute in my eyes, rather than a robbery. A standout track, “Luv, Hold Me Down,” has the most provocative lyrics on the album. On top of that, it’s syncopated beat completely flips the script for the genre. If You Like: The Smiths, The Sex Pistols, or Iggy Pop
‘Relatives’ – Minor Wiley A Georgian band formed by three friends, Minor Wiley has been slowly making their first album since April 2013. So far they have released four tracks, and each one has been epic. “Sidewalk Serpents,” which I consider to be their single, sounds like “A” material from a much more established band, one that has been together for more than their one year. They sound like competent musicians. Some guitarists use reverb as a crutch, because they are afraid of having to play clean, but this band knows how to use it properly. If You Like: Radiohead, Hum, or Jane’s Addiction
‘The Complete Atlantic Recordings’ – Bettye Swann If you like vintage soul, it would be a shame not to acquaint yourself with Bettye Swann. Through some fluke of poor marketing and poor luck, one of the finer voices of soul faded into obscurity before seeing a proper spotlight. Her song “Make Me Yours” is the cuddliest, effervescent to come out of the soul generation. Just listen, and you will agree with me that this woman deserves to be a household name. If You Like: Etta James, Aretha Franklin, or Ella Fitzgerald
A12 • February 6, 2014
EDITORIAL
The Chronicle
Losing our religion:
Study shows agnostic demographic growth among young adults By Elizabeth Clemente Special To the Chronicle
If you type the phrase “selfinvolved millenials” into Google, you will come up with 574,000 results in half a second. The numerous links lead to articles that question whether our generation is full of open-minded, culturally aware go-getters, or entitled, attention-seeking narcissists. According to a 2013 study published by the Pew Research Center, nearly one third of American adults ages 18–29 identify as having no religion. While our generation has been widely portrayed as haughty and defiant, I don’t believe our supposed arrogance to be a factor in this statistic.
First of all, it’s important to consider the fact that a large number of Americans today – even those older than we are – would consider themselves
our generation classifies themselves this way is because they would rather be passionate about their beliefs than hold a lukewarm position. Another factor to consider is the age of the people in question. A different study also conducted by the Pew Research Center found that 28 percent of U.S. adults today have left the faith in which they were raised. Chances are, these people needed some time to reconsider their stance. If the same young adults who classified themselves as having no religion were to be surveyed again ten years from now, maybe some of their responses would be different. Ultimately, regardless of the reason for these numbers, the
“... nearly one third of American adults ages 18-29 identify as having no religion.” non-practicing when it comes to their faith. Growing up in a home where religion is vague and has little influence on everyday life can be confusing, and it doesn’t exactly make kids passionate about becoming more involved. Instead of jumping to the conclusion that millenials are too stubborn and conceited to adhere to one religion’s practices, maybe we should look at it from a different perspective. Perhaps part of the reason such a large portion of
effect that this growing religious ambiguity will have on our country’s future political climate will be dramatic. According to John P. Teehan, Ph.D., Hofstra University professor of religion and chair of the religion department, the idea of not being openly religious is “more of an option than it ever was before.” For many young people, religion “helps provide a moral framework and context for [their] community,” said Teehan, explaining that religion is, “part of
benefits, it can also be exclusive, and the rigidity of organized religion can be a turn off for our generation. Therefore, Teehan said he believes it is very possible that as the open-minded millennials grow older and begin families of their own, the U.S. could become more secular. If the agnostic demographic continues to grow, the amount of opposition to certain legislation on religious grounds will inevitably decrease. While it may take several decades for this change to become prominent, the shift toward a more secular America will be interesting to witness. As for now, instead of critics labeling this generation as selfengrossed, maybe they should instead be taking a closer look at its integrity.
“...the effect that this growing religious ambiguity will have on our country’s future political climate will be dramatic.” their understanding of how to be in the world.” But while a sense of belonging and tradition can have
U.S. government: Great idea, poor execution
By Matthew La Corte Special To the Chronicle
As a new semester begins, class discussions and the pages of this newspaper will feature arguments about government and society. But as the year 2013, our president and the American political process have clearly shown, government is not working for the people. Last year gave us the ObamaCare website mess, the NSA spying scandal brought to light by Edward Snowden and continued economic sluggishness. It also taught us that President Obama will continue to be more conservative on marijuana legalization and immigration reform than President Bush was. President Obama was supposed to be different, but his January State of the Union showed that he only represents the status quo. The silver lining is that more people than ever
before are questioning government competency and working to solve problems outside of the government. The notion behind government is comforting. I wish there was a large, omnipotent group of people in Washington, DC who knew exactly what to do in all scenarios. I wish they could give us all healthcare for free, only engage in wars that were needed, and protect us from disease, terror and hazards. Most people like to think that government can play this role. But it’s critical to be honest when we examine government’s record of failure. Simply: government is not the solution to problems. Government is run by sleazy politicians who will do anything
to remain in office. The political process is messy, run by special interest groups, mired in backroom deals and not executed for the good of the people. Netflix’s “House of Cards” has been a damning indictment of politics for those who are not lucky enough to see the process from the inside.
young people when it inflates the cost of college education and buries students in thousands of dollars of debt. Government ruins the lives of minorities that are four times more likely to be arrested for drug crimes compared to Caucasians, despite nearly identical usage rates. Government ruins lives when it regulates and taxes individuals and small business to fund its bloated military and entitlement budgets. Government tilts the playing field when it gives out corporate welfare to its banker friends and not small businesses driven by the middle class. Government thwarts attempts at marriage equality when phony politicians campaign on noble platforms and do nothing when they get
“But it’s critical to be honest when we examine government’s record of failure. Simply: government is not the solution to problems.” Government ruins the lives of immigrants who are coming to this country looking for a mere opportunity to succeed, stifling them in paperwork and impossible-to-navigate immigrant courts. Government ruins the lives of
into office. Government ruins lives when its drone attacks kill thousands of innocent women and children who just happen to live in Pakistan. And worst of all, government ruins lives when old, out-of-touch politicians promote unnecessary wars where young men and women will be tragically slayed, maimed and mentally ravaged. It’s time that we as young people put archaic and soulless politics behind us. We should mock the state, laugh at politicians, protest authority and act on our doubt in government policy. It’s up to young people to go out and change the world. It’s on us to provide for our neighbors, volunteer for charities and organizations and start innovative companies that provide people worldwide with goods and services. Government is not the solution, and politics is the problem.
The views and opinions expressed in the Op-Ed section are those of the authors of the articles. They are not an endorsement of the views of The Chronicle or its staff. The Chronicle does not discriminate based on the opinions of the authors.
The Chronicle
OP - ED
February 6, 2014 •
A13
The fight continues: Keeping abortion safe and legal By Karla Bradley Special To the Chronicle
On Jan. 22, the 41st anniversary of Roe v. Wade was celebrated by women and men across this country. Although this anniversary came and went while most Hofstra students were on break, the importance of Roe v. Wade does not end with the passing date. It was a landmark case that won women the right to safe and legal abortion, as a result of the court’s decision that politicians should not interfere with a woman’s personal medical choices. Unfortunately, this case is being chipped away at once again by politicians who have no understanding of the complex
reasons that could possibly contribute to a woman’s decision to get an abortion. According to the Guttmacher Institute, more than 200 restrictions on abortion access have become law since 2010, and 53 of those were passed just this last
legal abortion is safe? Think again. Abortion is a deeply personal decision that is between a woman, her family, her doctor and her faith. While many people feel conflicted about the morality of abortion, it is important to remember that we are not in those women’s shoes, and we do not have the right to make that decision for them. Women should be provided with accurate information that should be given without the intent of coercing, shaming, or judging them. Every situation is unique, and ultimately, the decision to choose adoption, end a pregnancy, or a raise a child should not be decided for women by politicians.
“Think the right to a safe and legal abortion is safe? Think again.” year. These restrictions are being passed in the sneakiest ways possible: through votes in the middle of the night, special sessions and procedural loopholes. Think the right to a safe and
Young people have energized the movement to keep abortion a safe and legal option for women. On our own campus, Hofstra students in the organization Student Advocates of Safe Sex [SASS] volunteered with Planned Parenthood to inform voters in Albuquerque of a 20-week abortion ban, which contributed to a decisive 10-point defeat of the ban.
Women should be able to have control over their bodies and determine when they want to start a family. Young people are working to protect that right and have made it clear that they will not sit by idly while politicians determine whether or not women should have access to the full range of reproductive health services.
Have an opinion? Email us at editorials@thehofstrachronicle.com.
Retouching body standards: Lingerie line gets real By Breana Diaz Special To the Chronicle
In the next month, Aerie, American Eagle’s line of lingerie for young women, will stop airbrushing and Photoshopping models in its advertising campaigns. The company aims to create a more realistic view of the female body and to encourage women to embrace their natural looks. Body image plays a large role in our generation’s self esteem. Girls still cut models’ pictures out of magazines and post them on their mirrors. Girls still crave to look just like them. Girls still starve themselves in order to resemble Barbies. When it comes to advertising, not only are products a part of the brand; so are the people. Aerie is taking a step toward feeding a more positive subliminal message to young women: love your body. Body image controversies most often present themselves in magazines. Young girls with Body Dysmorphic Disorder, a condition in which girls obsess over perceiving that they have appearance flaws, are hit the hardest. Elle magazine has recently been profiled as racist and unfair
due to its treatment of actress Mindy Kaling of “The Mindy Project.” The problem is, Elle shot covers of four women: Allison Williams, Zooey Deschanel, Amy Poehler, and Mindy Kaling. The first three, white and thin, were printed in full color with full-body framing. Kahling, darker skinned and a size eight, was shot in black and white from the chest up. When young people read of injustices like this, they’re led to believe that it is not acceptable to be who they are. Another instance of unethical photo retouching was seen in the January issue of Vogue magazine. Lena Dunham, creator of the HBO hit “Girls,” was touched up in a photo feature. Lena looks fantastic, but they wanted to touch up just a few things. These include: shoulder and neck shaved down, lines on her face removed, jawline sharpened, waist and hips made narrower, dimple removed, and hands smoothed. Girls see these false images and think that it’s possible to make their bodies look the same way. But they must realize that these images do not exist outside of Photoshop.
The college environment doesn’t exactly foster a healthy lifestyle. All that college students have time to focus on is school and sleep. Unfortunately, if we can’t find time to head to the gym, some of us feel a need to engage in harmful practices in order to look like the models in magazines. Loving your body is a hard thing to do when you are exposed to the perfectlooking models and celebrities in magazines such as Vogue and Elle. Magazines promote self-mutilation to the same girls that they look to hire as college interns. In the near future, we can hope that other companies will see Aerie’s progressive move and begin to follow in their footsteps—creating a more realistic image for women in today’s society.
Illustration by Matt Subrizi
A 14 •Febuary 6, 2013
SPORTS
The Chronicle
Men’s Basketball: growing pains over break By Sean Williams sports editor
The Hofstra Pride men’s basketball team trudged through a snowy winter stretch, accumulating losses and learning experiences at seemingly equal paces. From Dec. 23 to Feb. 1, the team went 4-9, including a current skid of four straight losses. The Pride’s overall record stands at 7-16, including a 3-5 conference record. The holiday season started ignominiously for Hofstra, as they lost to Siena 67-59 two days before Christmas. In spite of freshman Jamall Robinson’s exceptional 16-point performance, the team’s underwhelming field goal rate of 34.9 percent sunk them. Zeke Upshaw’s play was noteworthy in its inefficiency, as the usually consistent scorer had
an off night, going 2-17 from the field. Coach Joe Mihalich was irritated by his team’s low scoring output — after years of running a fast-paced offense at Niagara, scoring 59 points in a game was disappointing. “It’s difficult right now,” Upshaw said. “We have eight guys who can play and for a while with Dion [Nesmith out due to an injury] it was seven.” Hofstra outrebounded Siena behind the efforts of big men Moussa Kone and Stephen Nwaukoni, but it didn’t alter the outcome, as the Pride found themselves victims of poor shooting. The next game was at home against George Washington University, a team that has been receiving votes for a national top-25 ranking all year. Though the Pride fought hard in what was a back and forth
Photo by Chris Owens Jordan Allen has served as an important swingman for the Pride as they enter the gauntlet of their CAA schedule.
game, they could not make a final run down the stretch to pull even with the Colonials. Dion Nesmith paced the Pride with 17 points, keeping the team in the contest. Coach Mihalich emphasized toughness on both ends of the floor. “Instead of the hammer, we were the nail,” Mihalich said. The squad redeemed the backto-back losses with an easy win over the New Jersey Institute of Technology 75-64, as Hofstra saw some help off the bench. Chris Jenkins, the freshman three-point specialist, buried 4 of 7 trey attempts. The Pride’s victory was short-lived, however. The week of Jan. 2 to Jan. 8 saw three straight losses, one blowout loss sandwiched between two bitter failures. Tulane University, the first game, was a narrow 61-58 defeat where neither team could muster much offense. The next challenge was a surprising one — an 86-67 away drubbing at the hands of Fairleigh Dickinson, a team that Hofstra had beaten handily earlier in the year. Conference play began against the University of Delaware, a formidable CAA rival. This 86-79 loss was the Pride’s third straight, and even a collective 55 points from the trio of Jordan Allen, Zeke Upshaw and Dion Nesmith couldn’t help the Pride stave off an eventual loss. After this 1-5 line of close calls and frustration, Hofstra proved how dangerous it can be when multiple players contribute offensively. Though the Pride offense has occasionally been slowed by its dependency on the two graduate guards, Upshaw and Nesmith, nonetheless its potency is visible in games like the Jan. 15 matchup against the College of Charleston. Allen, Nwaukoni, Upshaw, Nesmith and Robinson each scored in double-digits en route to a 75-71 victory, and while Upshaw led the team with 22 points, Nwaukoni was arguably the player of the game with 15 rebounds and 13 points. If the team has had one consistent strength all year, that strength has been its rebounding. The Pride have outrebounded 18 of their 23 opponents Mihalich has praised Nesmith
Chris Jenkins, a freshman guard, backpedals on defense
as being invaluable to the team, as the graduate guard’s 13 points per game, 4 assists per game and excellent .421 three point percentage makes him a multidimensional offensive attacker. “He’s our leader” Jenkins said. “He picks us all up on the court.” A win against UNC Wilmington, a nonconference loss against Southern Methodist and a dominant victory against William & Mary pushed the Pride’s conference record to 3-1, and it looked like the team was coalescing into a confident unit with a capability for rebounds and hot three-point shooting. Since then, though, the team has floundered, losing four straight conference games, including some ugly losses to Towson and the College of Charleston. They have been outscored by 50 points over the course of those four games. Even as Zeke Upshaw con-
Photo by Chris Owens
tinues to average 19 points per game, Hofstra has often struggled to stop teams on defense. They allowed five Towson players to score in double digits during a 76-58 loss on Jan. 27. Another rough loss, a 67-49 defeat to the College of Charleston, featured a 12-24 performance from beyond the three-point arc for the Cougars, even as the Pride struggled to break 50 points. There are still plenty of growing pains for this Pride team, a crew that only runs eight men deep and sees its fair share of foul trouble and fatigue. Two freshmen have been pushed into major roles and the final run of the conference schedule will test how prepared the team is for the CAA Championship, where coach Mihalich is hoping to play spoiler for an established contender.
The Chronicle
SPORTS
Febuary 6, 2013 • A 15
Basketball Breakdown: Drexel University By Chris Buckley staff writer
Senior forward Anma Onyeuku goes for a layup attempt.
Photo by Chris Owens
After starting 1-4 in conference play, the Hofstra women’s basketball team has reached .500 thanks to a season-high three-game winning streak. In a perfect week of games, Krista Kilburn-Steveskey’s squad swept a pair of contests against UNCW at home on Friday and a tough road-matchup at Drexel on Sunday. Hofstra, which is dominated by underclassmen, has been sparked by the bench play of senior Annie Payton. Payton, who began the season as a returning starter, has rebounded and comfortably emerged as another option off the bench. In Hofstra’s dramatic 68-66 victory over Drexel, the New Jersey native scored in double figures for the 11th time this season thanks to a 21-point performance. Payton tied a career-high in points, shooting 8 of 14 from the field. It was the sixth time in the Pride’s last eight games the senior reached double figures, and there do not seem to be any signs of her slowing down. Outside of her individual play on the hardwood, Payton has taken over a leadership role, using her experience to serve
as a model for the many young members of this Hofstra team. Vocal, enthusiastic and animated, Payton has become the pulse of the Pride, especially when her three-point shooting is on. “We have to just keep doing what we’re doing. Have fun, and we have to just play in the moment because we’re so young,” said Payton, following Hofstra’s 55-43 win over UNCW and anticipating the next game against Drexel. “It was pretty packed there [at Drexel] last year, so just have fun and come out with a win. There’s really not much more you can ask for from a young group,” she said. Fortunately for the Pride, Payton’s words rang true, as it was freshman point guard Krystal Luciano who netted the gamewinning layup with just seconds remaining and helped Hofstra take down Drexel. Now 19 games into the season, Krista Kilburn-Steveskey seems to have found a winning combination: balancing her prime trio of freshmen in Krystal Luciano, Kelly Loftus and Elo Edeferioka with sophomore Asia Jackson and veteran Anma Onyeuku. With Payton still coming off the bench, one might question why she has not regained her starting spot. The answer is simple. As the
saying goes, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Payton is now averaging 11 points per game after her slow start, while still playing a starter’s minutes at 22 per game. In CAA play, she is shooting 40 percent from beyond the arc. In this case, the title of “starter” is negligible; and as long as Payton continues to succeed as KilburnSteveskey’s first substitute, one would be hard pressed to believe Hofstra’s head coach is going to tinker with a working system. On the other end of the spectrum are the freshmen: Luciano, Loftus and Edeferioka. All three have started every conference game to this point, a sign of their improvement and hard work since the start of the season. With junior guard Andreana Thomas out of the picture for the time being (violation of team rules), Luciano has become the primary ball-handler for the Pride. Her speed and floor vision, combined with the height and rebounding ability of Edeferioka, makes Hofstra’s group of underclassmen explosive. As for Loftus, she notched her first career double-double against Drexel with 14 points and 10 rebounds. The future seems bright for Hofstra, as everything finally seems to be falling into place: mainly, baskets.
Pride scrape by the Drexel Dragons, 68-66 By Lauren Del Valle staff writer
Women’s basketball notched a third game onto their winning streak Sunday in Philadelphia against the Drexel Dragons. Freshman guard Krystal Luciano scored a clutch layup with nine seconds remaining to give the Pride the 68-66 edge. Senior guard Annie Payton received Colonial Athletic Association Player of the Week, thanks in part to her career-high 21 points off the bench against the Dragons. The Pride came out strong pushing a 14-point lead in the first five minutes of the game, but foul trouble gave the Dragons the foot
in the door they needed to tie the game 34-34 at the half. Namely, Coach Kilburn-Steveskey sat senior forward and team leader Amna Onyeuku the last 10 minutes after two fouls. Kilburn-Steveskey noted Drexel’s consistent defensive presence in the paint as a challenge well faced by freshman forward Elo Edeferioka who tallied 11 rebounds and 7 points. Both squads came out to battle in the second half, trading baskets so that 5 points was the widest point margin. Freshman guard Kelly Loftus produced on both ends of the court notching her first doubledouble with 14 points and 10 rebounds. Loftus particularly pro-
duced in the second half tallying seven of her 10 rebounds. The team is now 4-4 in the CAA running on a three-game conference-winning streak. The Pride won its previous contests against UNC Wilmington and Northeastern. They boast a 9-10 overall record. “The secret to their success right now is how they believe in each other; how they trust in each other,” said Kilburn-Steveskey. The Pride will travel to Maryland to rematch the Towson Tigers on Thursday. Towson is also 4-4 in the conference and defeated the Pride at home 62-56 in its first season meeting.
Photo courtesy of Hofstra Athletic Communications Guard Andreana Thomas has been unable to play but the Pride have recovered from a sluggish start to the season.
A 16 •Febuary 6, 2013
SPORTS
The Chronicle
Annie Payton, senior, coming into her own By Alex Pineda special to the chronicle
Hofstra senior Annie Payton was named the Colonial Athletic Association’s Player of the Week for the first time in her career after leading the Pride to an undefeated week. “It means so much to me,” said Payton. “It’s really just a blessing when you think about all the work you put in.” The guard from Camden, New Jersey, scored 18 points against UNCW at home and then went on the road to tie her career high with 21 points to go along with 4 rebounds and 4 assists at Drexel. The Pride’s second-leading scorer provides much more than points, as she is a constant spark and the young team’s emotional leader. “I take that as a responsibility as the sixth man coming off the bench,” Payton said. “I have to produce and I have to pick up the pace.” Payton wasn’t always so vocal on the court, but it is a product of her senior leadership and her understanding of that role. Payton is one of two seniors leading the squad, and she has enjoyed watching the underclassmen grow before her eyes. Over the previous three seasons, Payton was very vigilant and paid close attention to the leadership of
Shante Evans, Nicole Capurso and Candice Bellocchio, and she has fused those different styles into her own. Although the psychology major had several offers, Hofstra’s coaching staff, togetherness, and the atmosphere and beauty of the campus made the decision a no-brainer. “Once I took my visit to Hofstra, I just canceled the rest of my visits because I knew this is where I wanted to come,” said Payton. Payton started playing basketball at the Boys and Girls Club in Camden when she was eight and really got serious about the game in middle school after joining an AAU team. Basketball helped Payton and her mother bond as Ann Payton got a thrill out of watching her daughter shine on the court. The 5-foot-9 playmaker used Photo courtesy of Hofstra Athletic Communications Annie Payton surveys the court as she continues to be a key offensive component for the Pride. basketball as a way to stay out of trouble growing up and ended level as she hopes to have the Payton said. “Playing basketball also push each other to be better. up becoming the all-time leading same impact on young lives as at Camden High was one of the “If he thinks he’s doing somescorer in Camden girls’ basketLane has had on her. best things to happen to me.” thing really well, I’ll be like, ‘No, ball history. Payton’s high school Winning the CAA Player of the Upon graduation this spring, it’s not good enough,’” said accomplishments are honored in Week was made extra sweet by Payton hopes to play basketPayton. "And he tells me the her school gym by a banner that the fact that she received the ball overseas before one day same thing.” hangs alongside one honoring honor on the same week as her becoming a coach. Payton’s During her time at Hofstra, Dajuan Wagner, who was drafted best friend, Frantz Massenat, coach through middle school and Payton has learned that she is in the first round of the 2002 NBA who plays point guard at Drexel up until her senior year of high strong, persistent and has people draft. and received the award on the school, Tyshema Lane, had a in her corner. “It’s humbling. [Camden] put men’s side. The two have a great influence on Payton and “Basketball is a game of runs the basketball in my hands and special bond as they can relate they still keep in contact. Payton and, honestly, so is life.” they support me 100 percent,” to one another, share advice and wants to coach at the grassroots
Lacrosse: Preseason awards & new captains By Mike Rudin assistant sports editor
Hofstra women’s lacrosse was ranked third in the CAA coaches’ poll and the Pride junior defender April Iannetta was named CAA preseason co-player of the year. Along with Iannetta, junior attacker Brittain Altomare and sophomore midfielder Becky Conto were awarded preseason all-CAA honors as well. Out of the six first place votes given, Hofstra University received one while second place James Madison University got one first place vote as well and first place Towson University received the other four. The Pride have high expecta-
tions for the 2014 season as most of the team returns for the upcoming season. Five of the Pride’s top six scorers, all top eight ground ball leaders, and six of the top seven draw control leaders are returning and ready to play in the upcoming season. Last season saw an 11-8 overall record, including a 4-3 conference mark. 2013 also notably included a very strong 8-2 home record. However, their 2-6 away record didn’t reflect their home record by any means. Iannetta came off last year earning the CAA co-defensive player of the year. Also, she was selected for the Mid-Alantic All-Region First Team and was
a CAA first all-team honoree. Iannetta was second on the team in assists with six assists, she was also second in scooping up ground balls with 50 ground balls. Altomare last year was the pride leader in goals, points and assists with 34 goals, 69 points and 35 assists. Conto as well last year was the leader in draw controls with 55 plus she came in third for the pride in game winning goals with two Seth Tierney, head coach of the men’s lacrosse team, named seniors Torin Varn and Anthony Zappone co-captains for the upcoming 2014 season. The senior attackmanVarn and senior defensive midfielder Zappone have been named the
Pride’s offensive captain and defensive captain, respectively. Varn, a 22-year-old from Ithaca, NY made himself known throughout the league during his junior year when his offensive stats exploded. He was ranked fourth in the CAA for scoring three game-winning goals and he also led the CAA in man-up goals in 2013. Nearly every one of Varn’s offensive stats doubled and some stats even tripled when comparing his sophomore year to his junior year. He went from scoring eight goals in 2012 to 30 goals during the 2013 season. Varn more than tripled the number of points he earned from getting 9 in the 2012 season to a team-lead-
ing 32 points in 2013. Finally, his assists doubled in his junior year from one to two assists. Ballston Lake, NY native and 22-year-old Zappone was a key component for the Pride’s defense as he held his position as short-stick, defensive midfielder. Zappone put up a career high in turnovers with seven in his junior year as well as a career high in defensive ground balls with 23. The men’s lacrosse team and their new captains wait to start the 2014 season, which begins noon on Feb. 15 at home against Marquette University.
SPORTS
The Chronicle
Febuary 6, 2013 • A 17
Wrestling inconsistent over the holidays By Frank Aimetti staff writer
The Pride Wrestling team took part in four events over the Winter Recess, with matches against Princeton University, Bloomsburg University and Drexel University, as well as an appearance in a tournament, the Southern Scuffle, which took place in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Graduate Joe Booth and senior Luke Vaith were the standouts at the Southern Scuffle, which took place on Jan. 1 and 2.
Booth, the 11th seed at his weight class (165 pounds), went 3-2 during the final day of wrestling, helping him to finish in fifth place. Overall, including preliminary matches, Booth emerged with an impressive 6-2 record. Vaith, the eighth seed at 141 pounds, opened the day with a loss but rebounded to finish the tournament with a 3-1 record, earning him seventh place overall. Senior Jamie Franco (125 pounds) and Junior Cody Ruggirello (149 pounds) also participated in the tournament. While
Photo courtesy of Hofstra Athletic Communications Coach Rob Anspach and his team observe a match.
neither officially placed, both had successful ventures in the tournament with Franco finishing 3-2 in the Scuffle and Ruggirello finishing 4-2. The Pride Wrestling team finished in 17th place out of 34 teams. Hofstra met Princeton University in an event at the Mack Sports Complex on Jan. 10. Freshman Jamel Hudson (133 pounds) impressed with a tech fall victory at his weight class of 133. Joe Booth and Jamie Franco also emerged victorious with major decision wins. Princeton won three of the first four matches (Booth was the only Hofstra victory in that stretch), giving them a dominant 17-4 lead; however, Hofstra was able to battle back with victories in four of the next five matches including wins by freshman Michael Hughes (285 pounds), Franco and Hudson. The result of the meet came down to the final match where Cody Ruggirello was able to beat his opponent, but not by the necessary fall needed to tie the
match. Hofstra’s rally fell short, ending with a 22-19 win for Princeton. Senior standout Luke Vaith missed the meet with an arm injury. The Pride travelled to Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, on Jan. 19 for a match with 23rdranked Bloomsburg University. After dropping the first two matches, the Pride emerged to win the next four with Jamie Franco and Jamel Hudson notching decision victories while Luke Vaith and Cody Ruggirello were both able to triumph via pin victories. However, Hofstra would end up only winning one of the next four matches with Joe Booth winning a decision. Bloomsburg ended the match with a 24-21 victory over the Pride and improved to 5-5 on the year, while Hofstra fell to 4-6 after losing its second consecutive match. On Jan. 24, Drexel met Hofstra in a match at the Mack Sports Complex that had to be delayed by 30 minutes due to a longer bus ride than expected, which was caused by inclement
weather. Hoping to break a two-match losing streak, the Pride came out of the gate fast, quickly winning their first four matches. Jamie Franco and Jamel Hudson opened with two major decisions before Luke Vaith registered his fourth tech fall of the season in yet another victory. Cody Ruggirello won a decision to continue Hofstra’s momentum. Drexel won their first match of the night before dropping the next three. Joe Booth won a major decision, followed by redshirt freshman Frank Affronti (174 pounds) and sophomore Victor Pozsonyi (184 pounds) winning by decision. Drexel then won their second match of the night before Michael Hughes closed out the match with an 8-1 win. The Pride improved to 5-6 with the victory. Hofstra faces off against Binghamton University on Friday, Feb. 7 at the Mack Sports Complex at 7 p.m. As this is the last home event of the season, Senior Night honors will also take place.
HOFSTRA ATHLETIC CALENDAR Away Home
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
WRESTLING
2/6 Thursday
2/7 Friday
2/8 Saturday
2/9 Sunday
2/10 Monday
v.s. William and Mary 2:00 P.M.
@ Towson University 7:00 P.M.
@ rider university 5:00 P.M.
v.s. binghamton university 7:00 P.M.
MEN’S BASKETBALL
v.s. UNC Wilmington 7:00 P.M.
WOMEN’S TENNIS
@ university at albany 11:30 A.M.
@james madison university 7:00 P.M.
2/11 Tuesday
2/12 Wednesday
A 18 •Febuary 6, 2013
SPORTS
The Chronicle
The Chronicle
SPORTS
Febuary 6, 2013 • A 19
Senior Stephen Nwaukoni rebounding relentlessly
Hofstra power forward Stephen Nwaukoni is fourth in the CAA when it comes to rebounding. His 8.5 boards per game come in only 22 minutes per contest, compared to the three men ahead of him (Jerrelle Benimon of Towson, Scott Eatherton of Northeastern and Willis Hall of the College of Charleston) who each averaged over 30 minutes a game. Nwaukoni isn’t as tall as some other big men, as he stands at a mere 6 foot 8 inches, but he has always had a nose for rebounding. The Queens native has seven games with double-digit rebounds so far this year after having eleven career games with double-digit rebounds.
Stephen Nwaukoni leads the Pride in rebounds this year.
Photo by Chris Owens
Hofstra spring sports work towards a new season
On the bottom left, Torin Varn looks to continue his impressive scoring streak during his senior season. He was recently recognized as the captain of the offense, On the right, April Ianetta has been voted the CAA preseason co-player of the year. On the top left, Louise Lopez hopes to help the women’s tennis team begin their spring matches. A number of sports are starting in the spring, including men’s golf, women’s golf, men’s lacrosse, women’s lacrosse, baseball and softball. The winter sports of men’s basketball, women’s basketball, and wrestling, continue into the new year.
Back Cover: Junior Steve Romano chases the ball during a scrimmage against Hobart University.
The Hofstra
Chronicle Spring sports see scrimmages and new seasons.
Off and Running Photo courtesy of Hofstra Athletics