Volume XXV - Issue V

Writing SNHU’s Story

VOLUME XXV

ISSUE 5

DECEMBER 5, 2018

PENMENPRESS.COM

CCEL Becomes The Chandler Center, Welcomes New Name and New Service Initiatives

Nicholas VonSchantz-Ricci Lead Copy Editor The Center for Community Engaged Learning (CCEL) has been a valuable resource for students seeking to be a part of something bigger than themselves for over ten years. The

CCEL Global Days of Service. (image credit: SNHU) center is SNHU’s hub The center got its start for service projects and in 2006 with one fullprograms that enable time staff member and a the SNHU community handful of students. The to make a difference on aftermath of Hurricane a local, national and in- Katrina one year prior ternational level. CCEL provoked a nationwide is looking to further response from college expand its influence by students who were eager unveiling a series of new to help with the relief initiatives as well as a effort. CCEL Director new name.

Elizabeth Richards be-

lieves that this response was what provoked students here at SNHU to start the center.

“One of the things that’s foundational to who we are is student leadership, and this office was born of student leadership,” said Richards. “I was not here at the time, so I’m spec-

ulating, but I think what was going on across the nation was also happening here…students were really the ones who were saying ‘we want this.’”

The center has undergone unbelievable growth since its inception. CCEL now has four full-time staff members and 32 student staff members. In 2017, the center moved from its original home in Stark hall to a brand-new space in the Green Center.

Programming within the center has grown dramatically. Over 600 students engaged in service learning and the CCEL staff planned 100 volunteer projects last year. Six alternative break trips are being offered this year compared to a single trip when the center was founded.

The growth of CCEL will not be slowing down

any time soon. SNHU Alumna Laurie Chandler was inspired by the mission of the center and has shown her appreciation through generous donations. On November 30, a ribbon cutting will take place, and from then on, CCEL will formally be known as “The Chandler Center.”

Among the new initiatives that have already been enacted are weekend alternative break trips. Two were offered this semester and they were completely free for students to attend.

“Each trip has three basic elements of all of our programs- issue education, direct service and critical reflection,” said Richards.

One of the trips involved students traveling to Full Circle . . . . . . . . . . .

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mcininch art gallery debuts two ENTHRALLING exhibits showcasing modernism and self-reflection

Angelina Iosso Staff Writer

On Thursday, November 1, there was a reception for two new exhibitions that recently opened in the McIninch Art Gallery in Robert Frost Hall. The first is showcasing Modernism and its Legacy, while the second is a collection of works by Nikki Rosato titled Voyager. Missed it? Don’t worry, they will be open for public viewing until December 15.

Modernism and Its Legacy was curated by Joanna Flink but is being housed by Southern New

Hampshire University.

This gallery features artwork by Max Beckmann, Pablo Picasso and other contemporary artists that practiced the Modernism art style.

Many of the pieces work in tandem with one another to show a sense of movement throughout the room.

The goal of this gallery is to portray the vast impact Modernism had on art in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, as well as how the Modernist movement is still impacting art to this day.

The Voyager series

by Nikki Rosato is located right behind the barrier wall in the gallery.

Rosato’s unique technique consists of taking silhouettes and filling in the negative space within the image with road maps from different places. This unique and captivating design is meant to symbolize how people tend to define themselves by their own personal sense of place.

Both exhibitions provide a way for students to gain new understanding of both of these artistic techniques while still being captivated by the artwork.

One of two current exhibitions in the McIninch Art Gallery, “Modernism and its Legacy” curated by Joanna Fink. (image credit: Ryan Barrett)

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letter from the editors tHE PENMEN PRESS STAFF 2018-2019 CO-EDITOR IN CHIEF

Nick Klotz nicholas.klotz@snhu.edu CO-EDITOR IN CHIEF Nikki Fain nikki.fain@snhu.edu ONLINE MANAGER Zach Meisel zachary.meisel@snhu.edu BUSINESS MANAGER Sultan Akhter sultan.akhter@snhu.edu COMMUNITY RELATIONS MANAGER Maddie Covino madison.covino@snhu.edu S OCIAL MEDIA MANAGER NOW HIRING: email penmenpress@snhu.edu LEAD COPY EDITOR Nick VonSchantz-Ricci nicholas.ricci1@snhu.edu NEWS EDITOR Rosa Valente rosa.valente@snhu.edu OPINION EDITOR NOW HIRING: email penmenpress@snhu.edu RTS & ENERTAINMENT EDITOR A NOW HIRING: email penmenpress@snhu.edu ENMEN ABROAD EDITOR P Rachel Romeo rachel.romeo@snhu.edu SPORTS EDITOR Catherine LaChance catherine.lachance@snhu.edu LAYOUT EDITOR Emma Sheehan emma.sheehan@snhu.edu LEAD VIDEOGRAPHER Jaime Mailloux jaime.mailloux@snhu.edu PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Jaelle Matthieu jaelle.matthieu@snhu.edu FACULTY ADVISOR Jon Boroshok j.boroshok@snhu.edu

The Southern New Hampshire University Penmen Press is a news publication produced by Southern New Hampshire University students and funded largely by the Student Government Association of the University. It is our responsibility to inform the SNHU community about events on and around campus. The Penmen Press will print any material found to be factual and in good taste by the editorial staff of the paper. The views published do not necessarily reflect the views of Southern New Hampshire University. The Penmen Press is published biweekly during the academic year and is printed by the Concord Monitor. To contact the newspaper, please email us at penmenpress@snhu.edu.

food for thought

Where did the time go? As the semester is coming to a close, The Penmen Press staff is just as eager as everyone else to head back home.

But honestly it’s hard not to feel reflective.

We’ve been incredibly lucky this past semester with our staff ’s dedication and we cannot thank them enough.

To be candid, we were a little overwhelmed going into this semester with the idea of being Editors in Chief, but we quickly realized we have a staff that makes the job easy.

We have been extremely pleased with the warmth and guidance our veteran members have given to our new members. And those new members?

Well, frankly, they’ve been exceptional. Their ability has only been outmatched by their willingness to step outside of their comfort

zones when tasked with trying new things.

In October, we were able to travel to Louisville, Kentucky for the National College Media Convention.

Since then, we have been taking a red pen to EVERYTHING we do here, quite literally.

We attended an event called Midnight Snack at the conference. Clad in our PJ’s, we made our way down to the hotel lobby to have our newspaper torn apart by Michael Koretzky, a “travelling advisor.” He could tell from the first page we had work to do in our staff communication -everything we do would be stronger if we took the time to talk about it first. From the writing style to the design of the pages themselves, we realized the opportunities we had to improve our paper.

We’re pushing for-

ward into next semester with confidence that our staff ’s hunger for more will guide the changes that not only we as Editors in Chief want to see, but changes that see the staff lead their own growth.

From the start of the year, our goal for The Penmen Press has revolved around staff development. Education is a more integral part of our mission now more than ever. We want to spend the next semester working towards developing a newsroom more reflective of the real world. If you ever walk through the Student Center, you know our office is always bustling, and now we want to focus that energy toward greater efficacy at telling SNHU’s story.

Thank you to our readers for sticking with us this semester.

Stay tuned.

Farm in Newport, NH. While there, students learned about the value of animal therapy in treating children and adults with disabilities.

The second trip was to Rosie’s Place in Boston.

Rosie’s Place was the first women’s homeless shelter in the country. Attendees learned about the connections between homelessness and domestic abuse.

They also served and cooked at the facility with the Cambridge YWCA. Richards has the strong desire to expand upon the center’s full-scale alternative break programs as well. According to Richards, it is a matter of asking, “How can we

Continued from page 1 move funds around so we can start offering more alternative break programs?”

Alternative Break trips have become popular over the years and increasing their capacity to meet demand is a prominent priority for the center.

CCEL also wants to develop a fellowship program for incoming students. A fellowship typically involves offering scholarship money to a small group of students in exchange for their engagement in a university-run program. The idea is for CCEL to recruit incoming students who were heavily involved in community service in high school. The

program would have education, service and reflection elements, and participants would have the opportunity to plan their own community engagement initiative for other students. The program is still in the brainstorming stage, but the CCEL staff believe that it would be an excellent starting point for incoming students who have a passion for service.

The cutting of the ribbon on November 30 symbolized a new era for CCEL. However, the center’s goals of giving students the opportunity to prosper as leaders and positively impacting the lives of those in need will remain unchanged.

ccel changes name

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news

Stefan Karlberg Staff Writer

Olympic Gold-winner Aly Raisman visits SNHU

Aly Raisman is the epitome of the word “fierce.”

Raisman is a sixtime Olympic medalist, three of which are gold. She competed in two Olympic Games, winning the team gold awards both times.

Raisman is also a sexual abuse survivor.

Raisman appeared at SNHU on November 27 to discuss her gymnastics career, her views on feminism and her experience opening up during the Larry Nassar trials. The event, hosted by ACES, was held in the Field House and welcomed a full crowd who came to hear Raisman speak. Kids and adults alike lined up to ask her questions, varying from asking her favorite trick, to asking how to recover after injuries. Raisman sat down before her event to talk more in depth about some topics.

Raisman has lots of experience at the Olympics, competing in 2012 and 2016. Both years the USA team won gold. However there is more to the Olympics than the competitions seen on TV. Raisman said, “We used to have so much fun. I feel like some of my favorite

Aly Raisman opened up about her career and views on feminism. (image credit: Rachel Stone/ Office of Student Involvement) memories are actually outside of the arena and we used to do pin trading. We would put them on our credentials and trade with people all over the world. It was really fun, we had a really good time.”

While the companions were intense, the competitors left it all on the mat.

“It’s a lot of pressure while you’re competing, so when you’re not at the gym, when you’re able to have fun and laugh that’s sort of the best way to calm you down and take your mind off of the competition,” said Raisman.

Raisman also has

a clothing collaboration with Life is Good.

Speaking about the collaboration she said, “I love working with Life is Good because I love all that they stand for.

I actually just finished reading [their] book and I loved it. For me it’s really important to align myself with brands who are really doing something bigger than themselves. They do so much stuff with children, specifically with trauma. Together we really wanted to create t-shirts that really were encouraging girls to be strong and to be fierce and to be brave.”

Raisman is also part

of a historic time for her hometown Needham, Massachusetts.

All four of the Boston area major sports teams have won at least one championship title in the past decade. In this same time period, Raisman won her six Olympic medals. When speaking about being a part of the city’s athletic community, she said, “Boston has been just an incredible sports city. I always have gone to the games. From a young age, my dad would take me a lot and it was sort of our thing.

I love watching all the sports teams. I think it’s so fun, but I always joke

that Boston sports fans are so spoiled because we always have championships and are so successful. It’s definitely fun to be a part of it.”

When speaking about the love the area has for the sports teams, she said, “I travel a lot, and when you go to other sporting events in other cities, its nothing like being in Boston because Boston sports fans are just so loud.

They cheer and they root and it’s just amazing to be a part of that.”

Raisman ended with advice geared towards high-school and college athletes. “I think it is really important to not

define yourself as just an athlete. Of course it’s an incredible thing to be an athlete and be really successful at being an athlete. It’s also really important to recognize that not everyone is going to be the best, not everyone is gonna get first place, so if you don’t get first place that’s okay. As long as you are focused on competing with yourself and being the best version of yourself, you should be very proud of yourself… It’s easy to compare yourself to other people, but just try to focus on yourself and being the best version of yourself.”

or loans, insurance rates and even employment opportunities.

Credit scores are not to be confused with credit reports. A credit score is a three-digit number that is based on the information within a credit report, and the higher the score, the better. Scores can range anywhere between 300

to 850.

Credit reports are a detailed history of personal credit information. This information can include balances on loans and credit cards, delinquency payments, bankruptcies, personal identifying information and inquires.

Due to the fact that this score can have

such a large impact on opportunities such as employment, it is important to check reports and verify scores often.

For credit reports, a new report is accessible for free every year from the three credit bureaus.

So, to stay informed, check every four months from a different bureau.

The bureaus include

Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

Credit reports do not provide credit scores, but there are various different ways to check the score. The score should be listed on the bottom of credit card statements, or it can be purchased from one of the bureaus or accessed through a free credit

scoring site.

To get a copy of a credit report, visit: www. annualcreditreport.com.

If there is information that is listed that is inaccurate or incomplete, it is important to file a dispute with the credit bureau that the report was received from before it negatively impacts the credit score.

Understanding the Importance of Credit Scores

Amy Sumsion Staff Writer

When it comes to personal finances, credit scores are arguably one of the most vital components. Not only will this score play a factor in getting accepted for loans, but it also effects the rate at which individuals receive interest

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news

SGA Looks ahead to Next Semester Amid Financial Requests Spencer Fennell Staff Writer

On Tuesday, November 6, the Student Government Association (SGA) held their usual bi-weekly meeting to address new business, such as elections and awarding a senator of the month.

The meeting started in its normal fashion with approval of minutes and senator roll call. After calling the meeting into effect, the Budget and Finance committee presented the conference and overage requests they had received at their last meeting. Numerous financial requests from different clubs and asso-

ciations were accepted.

The clubs that wished to obtain money from SGA included Animation and Art forms, who wanted to go to Anime Boston to study animation from different cultures, and Hospitality Student Association, who wanted to go to a Disney Youth Education Series event to learn about team bonding and what makes Disney magical.

All requests were unanimously passed other than one requested by the Inter Greek Council that wasn’t exactly challenged, but slightly questioned in regards to what the club’s members would learn from the trip. It

still was passed however, with two senators not in favor and one who abstained.

After the Budget and Finance requests were handled, Vice President Tyler Provencher (‘21) took the stand to present the same co-sponsorship request from CAPE for their Big Money Bingo Night which was previously brought up at the last Senate meeting.

In their presentation, CAPE mentioned how they wanted to create a good relationship with SGA by having them supply $350 to the event that would be used for a variety of prizes. The last time this request was proposed, Senator

Work Study Opportunities

Amy Sumsion Staff Writer

There are currently off-campus work-study opportunities for SNHU students that still need to be filled. Students can receive $9.25/hour while gaining experience working with non-profit organizations gaining real-world experience and the opportunity to give back to the local community.

The opportunities are endless. Whether students are interested in gaining experience working with kids, in an office, graphic design, or even working with animals there are jobs available that will provide those experiences. For instance, there is an opportunity with the International Institute of New England as a Refugee and Immigrant Program Associate. This position will provide leadership, communication, and time management skills through working closely with managers and clients, the coordination of

transportation of clients to medical appointments and so much more.

Another opportunity for students is the Merrimack Valley Assistance Program Office Coordinator position. This will provide students with communication skills, both written and verbal, along with time management and organizational skills. The coordinator will be responsible for scheduling appointments for clients, connecting with clients and administrative tasks as well.

The work-study positions have provided previous students with invaluable experiences and opportunities that would otherwise not have been available.

Mary Young, the Federal Work-Study Coordinator, said, “Students in the off-campus program have indicated that their positions have contributed to obtaining skills that future employers are looking for including critical thinking, problem-solving, team-

work, and communication skills. In addition, they feel a great sense of pride knowing they have made a difference in the local community. Many lifelong relationships have been formed between supervisors at our off-campus organizations and SNHU students.”

Other positions available include Easter Seals Teaching Assistant, Granite YMCA Group Leader, Salvation Army Kid’s Café Assistant, Hillside Middle School Web Designer, and many more.

To be eligible for these opportunities students must have been awarded federal work-study through a financial aid award package and have their own transportation to and from the facilities.

To learn more about the opportunities available like SNHU Work-Study on Facebook or email workstudy@snhu.edu.

Students can apply for a position today at www. snhu.edu/jobs

Matthew Rubenstein (‘19) had asked what SGA would gain from the agreement as there was no mention of how SGA would be represented or publicized.

CAPE amended Rubenstein’s issue by saying they would allow President Iesina Tupouniua (‘20) to take a moment in the beginning of the night to say a few words about SGA and what they do so that they could spike interest and possibly fill up their senate for next semester. Senator Rubenstein still had a few questions about budget and why CAPE needed the money as both clubs have large budgets.

Rubenstein wished

to know why the clubs couldn’t just help each other out with volunteers rather than exchanging money. CAPE wishes to make a bond with SGA so they can help each other further down the road.

Shortly after, a vote took place on the co-sponsorship and it was completely unanimous, other than Senator Rubenstein who abstained, and the co-sponsorship was passed.

After co-sponsorships were discussed, the senators talked about the upcoming elections and how they could help spread the word to get more people invested in student

government.

The meeting concluded by announcing the Senator of the Month award which was given to Senator Stefan Karlberg (‘22). Karlberg was congratulated on his involvement in the club and he was given a certificate to commemorate his accomplishment.

The meeting then came to close as everyone was told to spread word about SGA and the vacancies they wish to fill with the election that had just passed. The meeting was quite short and allowed more time for people to spread the word about SGA and the opportunities it brings to the students here at SNHU.

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news

Black Forest Cafe Puts a Creative Spin on Classic Dishes

Nicholas VonSchantz-Ricci Lead Copy Editor

Among the many factors that promote the success of a restaurant is versatility. Offering a diverse menu, unpretentious surroundings and multiple dining options enables an establishment to appeal to a broad range of people. No other New Hampshire eatery may embrace this concept more effectively than the Black Forest Café, a community gathering place that has been in business for thirty years.

This commanding, yellow building nestled along route 101 in Amherst, New Hampshire houses a casual restaurant, marketplace and bakery. Martha and Bruce Walters started the business in 1988. Bruce was

trained in France and England, so he strived to incorporate classical French techniques into an approachable menu of new and old favorites. The café assumed its current location in the late nineties to accommodate the couple’s desire for expansion.

According to General Manager Anthony Cormier, the kitchen at Black Forest is a fromscratch operation.

“We make everything from scratch. I would say like 95% of the things we make are from scratch. If there’s that five percent that isn’t, [then] it’s a local purveyor that’s doing it for us… other than that, we’re making mayo, salad dressing, pie crust bread, bread…literally everything,” said Cormier.

The restaurant side of the operation features

a menu reflecting both traditional American dishes and international fusion. There are a variety of small plates, such as cauliflower tacos with edamame hummus, sweet potato and caramelized onions and a meatball skillet with lemon pesto and marinara.

Creative sandwiches include a Reuben made with sauerkraut that is laced with bacon and apples and a grilled cheese featuring two-year aged cheddar, apple chutney, kale and bacon on fresh sourdough.

Splurge-worthy entrees include homemade chicken pot pie, crab cakes with napa cabbage slaw and the socalled Shaker Cranberry Brisket, a dish that Cormier is particularly fond of.

“There are things that we don’t have time

The Black Forest in Amherst, NH. (image credit: Nicholas VonSchantz-Ricci)

Ryan Barrett Staff Writer Recently, SNHU started a new procedure for accessing the food cupboard as there were reports of misuse. The SNHU Cupboard is a community food pantry that is located in the Student Center

near the Pub. The Cupboard is managed by the CARE team, a committee of faculty and staff members that help with the well-being of students. The goal of having a food pantry is to provide students at SNHU that can’t afford food and/or personal

The Black Forest Cafe offers many different food options with homemade ingredients. (image credit: Nicholas VonSchantz-Ricci) to do at home anymore, dishes such as salted The most temptand I feel like some of bourbon caramel French ing part of the space, those items are becom- toast and southern-style however, is the pastry ing more and more rare biscuits with sausage case. Oversized scones because they are so hard gravy. There is also a full liberally dusted with [to make] or they take catering menu. powdered sugar, glazed so long. So that we don’t The Bakery/ cronuts cloaked in icing fall away from some of Marketplace/cafe side and homemade fruit those traditional things, of the operation is a pies bursting with colI encourage people to bustling environment or are just a few of the try some of those things, filled with grab-and- sugar-fueled delights. like our slow-braised go options for those in Just be sure not to brisket.” said Cormier. need of a pick-me-up. leave without a cookie.

“It’s braised in carrots, Hot and cold drinks, Nearly a dozen varietcelery, onions, red wine, wraps, prepared salads ies are offered ranging garlic and fresh rose- and a selection of home- from chocolate-dipped mary. Then it sits in the made soups and quiche peanut butter to molasoven forever. Then we are available all day. The ses spice to traditional cut it ourselves and with marketplace offers a English shortbread. all the drippings and liq- range of local products.

The motto at Black uid that’s leftover in the “If Whole Foods Forest is “Comfort Food pan, we strain that down [Market] was going with a Creative Twist.” and we make our gravy.” to have a convenience Cormier and his team The restaurant is store, that’s what we’re are encompassing this open for lunch Monday going for [with the mar- theme every day and through Saturday and ketplace],” said Cormier. have continued the legdinner Tuesday through “All of the merchandise acy first brought forth Saturday. Brunch is of- and novelty items are by Bruce and Martha fered on Sundays with related to what we do.”

Walters thirty years ago.

Cupboard Update

products access to them on campus. All of this is provided free of charge and is made possible by donations by students and staff.

When the school year began, The Cupboard was open and unlocked during the hours of the Student Center

for anyone to use, no questions asked.

However, according to Kelly Hobbs, people were misusing The Cupboard.

“Once we removed the card access it became evident to us that there was some misuse of The Cupboard. The misuse was minimal,

and in an attempt to keep things running smoothly, we reinstated the card access.” Hobbs said.

Anyone that needs access to The Cupboard can visit the concierge desk in the front of the Student Center or email thecupboard@ snhu.edu to ask for

access. No other questions will be asked of the person requesting access.

Anyone who would like to make donations to The Cupboard can do so by dropping off items at the concierge desk during its normal hours of operation.

the penmen press

Yazan Haimur Staff Writer SNHU has partnered with a phone application called uSafeUS in an effort to help keep their students safe and out of uncomfortable situations.

The app is mostly focused on preventing sexual assault, however, it can aid students in various dangerous circumstances. uSafeUS allows SNHU students to have access to

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news

uSafeUS is a New Tool for Safety

many different resources such as the wellness center, public safety, community services, university services and emergency services with the click of a button. The app can also help students get out of an uncomfortable situation like sending a fake call or a text.

Getting access to the app is simple. Students can download it for free from the play store and select Southern New

Hampshire University when asked to choose their school. According to the Director of the Wellness Center Felix Pizzi, the uSafeUS app provides easy access to safety information for SNHU students. “[The app can] give you the address, the website and the contact information to reach sources,” said Pizzi.

This app is used by many different universi-

Veteran Spotlight: Meet Francis Despres

ties around the country, including one of SNHU’s neighbors, University of New Hampshire.

This app will hopefully help to make the uncomfortable situations that many students are faced with more easy to handle.

It will also enable SNHU to keep better track of what is happening on campus with the anonymous user examination.

For more information, visit usafeus.org.

Care for Yourself & Others with the CARE Team

Molly Graves Staff Writer

Catherine LaChance Sports Editor

Francis Despres is a Navy veteran who is studying here at Southern New Hampshire University. He spent four years as an aviation technician where he spent most of his time fixing the wiring on F-18 jets.

Despres got lucky and was placed in a training squad with over 50 jets available to work with as opposed to the 12 that other units usually receive.

Although he did not officially deploy, he did multiple ‘temporary deployments.’ This is when a person in the military goes about 100 miles off the coast for 2-3 weeks so the pilots can practice taking off and landing on the boat. Despres was quick to mention that his favorite part during these training events were the stars. Being 100 miles away from any city or air pollution meant that he could see the whole sky. As a result, he saw stars that he didn’t even think existed.

Although many of his memories of the military were difficult and unremarkable, he made a lot of great friends in the Navy and he was provided with the opportunity to embark on some awesome

Students who feel they do not have a voice on campus should contact SNHU’s CARE Team, a group of staff and faculty working to improve the lives of struggling students by connecting them to necessary resources.

The CARE Team focuses on prevention and early intervention for students experiencing distress or those who engage in harmful or disruptive behaviors, while helping them meet their academic, personal and professional goals.

“If it’s impeding a student’s ability to do well here, we’re glad to offer help,” said Jay Tifone, CARE Team chairman.

The CARE Team provides services to students who experience a wide range of concerns from anger to expressions of suicide and feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness.

The CARE Team also provides services to students who experience a change in academic performance, poor attendance, severe anxiety, deterioration in physical appearance or personal

Francis Despres served in the Navy as an aviation technician fixing jets. (image credit: Molly Graves) adventures. For example, first enrolled here at Despres and one of his Southern New Hampshire friends got to drive all the University, he really wantway from New Hampshire ed to study software proto California while on gramming, as that is what duty. This was one of his he wants to pursue after greatest memories because graduation. Unfortunately, he got to see most of the that program was not open country, including places when he first started here, he wouldn’t have seen had so he decided to major in he not been given this business management with opportunity. a concentration in techWhen he got out of the nology. As a 34-year-old Navy, Despres was unsure college freshman, Despres if he wanted to go to school says he feels a slight disat all. With two kids, he connect with the younger found it nearly impossible students but also appreto juggle a job and school. ciates that they don’t treat When the G.I Bill changed him differently. He says and offered a stipend while that being an older college he is enrolled full-time, the student allows him to apidea became more feasible preciate this experience for him. He spoke about more than he would have how he would ultimately at a younger age. Despres like his children to attend is expected to graduate in college as well, so he is the May of 2022 and is glad trying to set a good and that he decided to come to positive example for them. SNHU, as it is much differWhen Despres ent than his expectations.

The director of the wellness center at SNHU, Felix Pizzi. (image credit: Yazan Haimur)

hygiene, excessive fatigue, exhaustion, visible changes in weight, drug or alcohol abuse and frequent or chronic illness.

The CARE Team is meant to support students by providing assistance to those who may be a risk to themselves or others. They have had 200 referrals since September. Last year, they had 290 referrals all academic year.

“If a student is open to help, the CARE Team can do a lot to connect a struggling student with the assistance they need to get back on track,” Tifone said.

The CARE Team is comprised of ten faculty and staff leaders including Tifone. They are Shannon Brown, Director of Residence Life, Kevin Kelly, Associate Director of Public Safety, Felix Pizzi, Director of Wellness, Russ Antoine, Associate Director of Community Standards, Stephanie Ames, Associate Director of Campus Accessibility, Carey Glines, Dean of Student Success, Henry Voros, Associate Director of Student Financial Services, Jane Yerrington, Assistant Vice President of Academic Operations

and Jackie Dunn, Office Manager of Student Affairs.

The CARE Team was founded in the Spring of 2015 under the leadership of Shannon Brown and Sheila Lambert.

At that time, it was called the Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) and was designed to head-off disruptive student behaviors that might threaten the safety of individuals or the SNHU community.

The group was renamed in 2017 to the CARE Team, with the same intention of addressing threatening behaviors early-on. They also address disruptive/ concerning behaviors that might not threaten anyone’s safety, but could impact a student ability to remain at the university.

If a student knows someone they feel may need the CARE Team’s services, reach out to an RA, staff or faculty member or any of the professionals on the team. A student may also send an email to CAREteam@ snhu.edu, or visit the Student Affairs Office in the Student Center to make an appointment with Tifone.

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feature

Inkwell Studios is a Place for Collaboration and Creativity

Inkwell Studios lab and workspace. (image credit: Yazan Haimur) Derek Smith while the studio does success...what you don’t can learn programming Staff Writer give experience, it is dif- tend to see as much of all you want, you can ferent from its real-life is the dozens of games learn 3DS Max all you Rosa Valente counterpart because of that [huge developers] want, but chances are News Editor what it hopes to achieve. tried to take to market, when you’re working on “This is very different but something went a project, you’re going to Collaboration is key than the studios in the wrong along the way and be presented with some in any profession, and a industry where profes- they had to start over,” challenges that are very space that allows people sionals work every day said Red. “That’s not specific to that project. to work together is often because it’s in a very the glamorous part of Each project comes with one that cultivates suc- different context. It’s working in the gaming its own things like that cess. The new Inkwell not just a studio, it’s a industry, but it is actually and it really helps you beStudios in Robert Frost studio in the context of a very important part.” come more versatile with This, among many the things that you’re goaims to welcome stu- an educational setting dents from various disci- and serving very distinct other reasons, makes the ing to experience in the plines to help create and educational goals,” said studio anything but a game industry.” conventional classroom. develop projects with Red. This semester there their peers in the game Red knows that the While there are students is a core group of 16 to design programs. studio will be an import- who work for credit with 20 students who work in Inkwell Studios is ant space for many stu- a list of goals and things the studio part-time for one of the many new dents because of what it to learn, the things they up to 20 hours a week. installments that was provides. It is a space for learn are more indelible These are students who put into Robert Frost at them to create and ex- because of the environ- applied to work in the the beginning of the fall plore their abilities, but ment they are in. studio but were ultiBrian Conant (‘19), mately chosen by Game semester. It is meant to it is also a space for them provide hands-on expe- to learn really influential a Game Programming Design Coordinator Ed rience to students in the lessons before they enter major, provided his own Brillant and one of the game design programs the actual field of game insight on the new studio head gaming professors, so that they can get a design. It is a space for and how he thinks it is David Carigg. Some of beneficial to developing the projects that they feel for what life will them to fail. be like when they enter “A big part of tech- his skills as a gaming are working on now inthe actual gaming in- nology and a big part major. “A lot of the skills clude working with the dustry. However, Studio of games in particular that you need to make Make-A-Wish program Director Benjamin Red is failing. It’s incredibly games are things that you and Boston Children’s spoke with enthusiasm rare that someone’s first can’t really learn in a tra- Hospital. They have beas they explained that project is a smashing ditional classroom. You gun working to create

a virtual reality tour application for SNHU which can be used with the OculusGo to take on recruitment trips around the world. They plan to take 360 videos of different locations on campus to integrate them into the experience so that prospective students will be able to navigate SNHU from anywhere in the world.

What is in the studio is just the start of something bigger. Some of the things that they want to try to accomplish in the future with the studio is to partner with more for-profit institutions and commercial institutions which will provide more of an opportunity for students to be paid for their work. They also want to try to take on big projects which will allow students to get professional licenses and will allow students use industry-level software.

Red also hopes to collaborate with other departments on campus so that students of all disciplines may have the opportunity to work with each other. There is already a possibility

of working with students from the math department to create an augmented reality experience of the Arboretum located on campus. “[With] Any school or program on this campus, there are projects that we might work on, and I hope that [what] we work on will involve those disciplines in so many different ways,” said Red. All game design and programming students have daytime access to the studio from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The room will occasionally be reserved, but there is a sign on the door so that students will know when they can enter. However, Red encourages everyone to visit Inkwell so that they can see the potential and the environment that has been created there.

“I really enjoy exploring possibilities of what could happen in this space. So, I would say, [for] anyone who is interested in maybe being a part of this space, I would very much enjoy for them to come visit and start those conversations,” said Red.

Frontpack concept art for Make-A-Wish. (image credit: Ben Red)

the penmen press

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arts & entertainment Bohemian Rhapsody: Rocking Theaters Everywhere

Queen recording a new song. (image credit: vanguardia.com) Madyson Alexander can’t even go to a single Including the breakup Staff Writer sports game and not hear of the band, Bohemian “We Are The Champions” Rhapsody shows how Queen: the famous blasting through the much of a family the memrock band hailing from speakers when the home bers, Freddie Mercury, London, England are now team wins.

Brian May, John Deacon movie stars. Known for Nearly 48 years and Roger Taylor, were to their dazzling front-man since their beginning, each other even through and their unique qualities “Bohemian Rhapsody,” a hard times. One thing is that left the band near un- walk-through of Queen’s for sure; this is not just definable, Queen stunned timeline, was released a film about a bunch of fans at every performance. on November 2, 2018. “old dinosaurs,” as Queen As the years pass Queen’s Produced by 20th Century so nicely put it, trying to legacy continues to live Fox and directed by Bryan make it in the world. It is on as their pure talent still Singer, this nearly two- a movie about love and conquers playlists and and-a-half-hour film hardship, struggles that radio stations today. You will leave you awestruck. are still faced today and

the art of defining a family.

Bohemian Rhapsody accurately reflects the story of Queen’s broken road to success. The movie especially highlights the life of Farrokh Bulsara (Freddie Mercury) and his interactions with others. Singer, the director, portrays the struggles Mercury faced with his family life, band commitment, illness and perhaps most importantly, his sexuality. Rami Malek, the actor who played Freddie Mercury, showed his ability to delve into the complexities of the “out there” character of the front-man, which made the movie even more emotionally riveting.

Costars to Malek included Gwilym Lee (Brian May), Joseph Mazzello (John Deacon), Ben Hardy (Roger Taylor) and Lucy Boynton (Mary Austin).

Boynton’s performance as Mary Austin, the woman Freddie Mercury had fallen in love with both as a fiancée and friend, was especially good. Austin went through a flurry of emotions while loving Freddie

Mercury, and Boynton’s portrayal was stellar.

Watching Queen become the amazing yet enigmatic band they were always meant to be lives up to the hype (and the 11-dollar ticket) of the movie. The process behind the making of their songs was brought to light as well, as most people never knew about the thought and passion that was behind these songs.

The movie never ceases to present action. From the start, we see Queen take off like a plane from a runway. Their unpredicted fame led them to countless concerts, including Live Aid. They seemed unstoppable; in many ways, they still are today.

As Queen put it themselves when asked what made them different from other wannabe bands, “We’re four misfits who don’t belong together, we’re playing for the other misfits.” I have never been one to get teary-eyed at the movies, but this scene really hit home. They really meant something to

people and continues to do so today.

Bohemian Rhapsody forces us to put ourselves in perspective. It forces us to ask questions about ourselves and our lives.

Who are we? What do we want to change in the world and ourselves?

What will define us, if anything? As an answer to that question, Queen shows the world that no definition is a definition and that we can determine who we want to be if we are bold enough. Queen’s inspirational journey is proof that no journey is perfect and every outcome happens as a result of the decisions we make.

Even the wrong decisions lead us somewhere. It is up to us to find the light in the situation and get back on the right track.

To make the best of life while we can.

My advice: buy some cheap snacks, stuff them in your jacket, listen to a few Queen songs and go see Bohemian Rhapsody in theaters. You will not regret it.

Laramie Seymour Sullivan, are staying in. Through these scenes, we get to know more and more about these characters and what they have to hide.

This movie was extremely well-made. From the actors to the costumes and the music, the film was all really well thought out.

This film was really cap-

tivating and left the audience wanting more. Those with any interest in this genre of film or mysterious plot lines will be delighted by this spectacle.

Everything Comes Together for a Hellish Night in El Royale Hannah Cohen Staff Writer

The movie “Bad Times at The El Royale” was released on Friday, October 12 and has left audiences with nothing but chills. I am normally not a person who wants to go see a suspense or thriller, but “El Royale” is a unique entry in the genre. This film kept me on the edge of my seat.

With twists and turns that were completely unexpected, this movie is unpredictable and entertaining throughout.

This film takes place in the 1960s and the decade is portrayed very accurately.

From the set to the costumes and even down to the music, the time period

is well-represented.

Seven strangers all meet for a night they would never forget, or not live to remember. The bell boy, Miles (Lewis Pullman), a singer, Darlene Sweet (Cynthia Erivo), a priest, Father Daniel Flynn (Jeff Bridges), a criminal, Emily Summerspring (Dakota Johnson), her young sister (Cailee Spaeny), a salesman, Laramie Seymour Sullivan (Jon Hamm) and a cult leader, Billy Lee (Chris Hemsworth). They each have a backstory and all have secrets which unfold in one fateful night at this rundown hotel.

The El Royale is a hotel on the border of California and Nevada, in which guests get to choose a room

in the state. It is evident that something is not quite right with the hotel once Miles tells Father Daniel Flynn “This is not a place for a priest, Father. You shouldn’t be here.” This immediately lets the viewers know something strange is going to happen at the hotel, but what is going to happen is the ultimate question that lingers in the back of the mind.

Throughout the film, the audience is guided through each room that the guests are staying in.

The secrets of each room are uncovered one by one.

Each room that the viewers get to see is one of the rooms that the four main visitors of the hotel, Father Daniel, Cynthia, Emily and

(image credit: 20th Century Fox)

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arts & entertainment Rockstar Does It Again with “Red Dead Redemption 2”

Billy Saunders Staff Writer

Rockstar has yet again provided a beautiful open world game with hours of content to be explored in addition to an emotional and compelling story line that once again immerses gamers into the wild west.

“Red Dead Redemption 2” follows the main protagonist, Arthur Morgan, in his adventures with Dutch’s gang in the dying ages of the wild west. The storyline is sixty hours in length and provides a compelling plot with valuable content.

Each mission has its own twists and turns as well as beautiful cine-

Samantha AguilarHernandez Staff Writer

matics accompanied by a masterly written score that not only enhances the experience, but also gives chills during the play-through. The missions were never repetitive, which is a true accomlishment.

The gameplay feels as if the player is writing a story. The decisions that are made alter how the public sees the player as a person, and the actions and choices that are made determine how a town will judge the player.

While free roaming around the open-world, the player will have these ‘encounters’ with strangers. They enhance the world and allow the character to be seen as an outlaw or a true hero.

During travels, there are

opportunities to interact with the NPC’s without a lot of dialogue, but there are enough options to create a feeling that you’re a part of this breathing world.

There is a survival component to this game as well, and Rockstar has balanced it perfectly, to the point where it’s not annoying in the effect it has on gameplay. There are cores for stamina, health and deadeye. To refill these cores, you can either go to the general store and purchase foods and other items to refill them, or you can sleep to refill them. There is also a need called “bathe.” This can be tended to by purchasing a bath at the local hotel or swimming in a river to clean yourself.

(image credit: Rockstar Games) Not bathing will result the way the sunlight fil- was detailed perfectly. in people running away ters through the vast land Red Dead from you and comment- and forests creates such a Redemption 2 is a great ing on your filth. beautiful experience for candidate for game of The graphics in this the player. The attention the year, and it is highly game exceed expecta- to detail is also phenom- recommended to anyone tions. The light-shading enal here, as it seems like who’s new to the franstood out the most and every part of this world chise or returning.

job as a police detective.

He meets a mysterious, empathetic teen named Rachel Roth, a.k.a. Raven (Teagan Croft), who struggles with her own dark, supernatural powers and who is being pursued by a dark cult. Dick Grayson immediately finds himself protecting her from danger and trying to find a way to help her understand and control her powers.

Though the focus of the first episode of the series is Dick and Rachel’s meeting in Detroit, the show isn’t afraid to quickly jump into the introductions of the rest of the characters needed to assemble the powerful team. While Dick and Rachel meet, we are introduced to a mysterious, yet powerful, woman named Koriand’r, commonly known by fans as Starfire (Anna Diop). Later in the episode, we meet the team’s green-skinned metahuman named Garfield, a.k.a Beast Boy

(Ryan Potter).

The new adaptation is nothing like the beloved 2006 show, which actually turns out to be not a bad thing. Despite the first episode’s unexpected success, fans and critics remain split over DC’s dark turn from the once lovable team of superheroes. In this new adaptation, we get to see the characters as they try to build their future from the ashes of their once dark and troubling pasts. Rachel Roth is the main focus during the first three episodes of the first season, which brings a spooky and violent element to the superhero genre. Seeing Rachel as a teen, trying to understand her own powers and wanting to have a normal life makes it easy to adore her and feel empowered by her. An additional difference from the origin of the animated team is that Rachel becomes the one who has an instant connection to all of the members of the group. She is

the inspiration behind the creation of the team.

Rachel and Dick rapidly form a unique bond in the first episode based on their shared experiences and internal struggles.

Their dynamic pushes the series forward and keeps the audience’s interest on the show. Robin is alone and frustrated with what he has now become, and while Dick becomes Rachel’s protector, she becomes his support.

Koriand’r is the show’s golden puzzle. Not knowing who she is, where she exactly comes from or what role she has in this world, she keeps the light shining on Diop’s character. Despite last year’s backlash for the casting of Anna Diop as the outsider beauty, Diop makes haters eat their words with a powerful and fearless change of image of the once sweet and peaceful Tamaranean princess.

Beast Boy brings lighthearted humor to the violent world of DC,

“Titans” is a Dark and Unexpected Success

Time to face it: our world judged this show far too fast. “Titans” has turned the tables on what was initially thought to be a dreadful idea.

“Titans” is the new live-action adaptation of the popular 2006 animated show “Teen Titans.” So far, DC’s adaptation of the series has a well-deserved 84% in Rotten Tomatoes.

Though the series includes most of the same characters of the powerful team of young superheroes, “Titans” follows a completely different plotline from the original show.

Dick Grayson, a.k.a Robin (Brenton Thwaites), has abandoned the bat cave and revealed against his mentor hoping to find his own identity and way of fighting crime. He has traded Gotham City for Detroit, and his nocturnal fighting routine has now become a full time day

which helps the audience catch a breath after a nerve-wracking situation.

Though his appearance has been brief during the first three episodes of the show, fans are already loving every inch of his character. The ending scene of the first episode gave us a glimpse to his first animal transformation to a tiger.

His transformation takes a lot more time than the original Beast Boy, and as he transforms back, we hear the cracking of bones and we see a detailed transformation of his whole body. Though there is still a lot to learn about his future in the show, his transformation and character essence seemed to be everything that mattered to fans. Still, audiences wait anxiously for his character journey and famous one-liners.

Despite the originality and execution of the plot, there is no denying that the show moves at a slow pace throughout the first episodes. The characters

are introduced separately, but connected at the same time. As the characters are introduced, more questions are asked and more are left unanswered. Since the show is just taking its first steps into the world, it should come as no surprise that these questions will purposely be left unanswered for quite some time. Despite the wait to see all the pieces come together, the nail-biting plot and action of the show will keep the audience anxiously waiting for the next episode.

Though ‘Titans’ isn’t liked by everyone, there is no denying that it is a show that really has it all. It has superheroes, mystery, horror and, what could be the best of all, hate toward Batman courtesy of Dick Grayson. Since the release of the first trailer, ‘Titans’ made it clear that this is not a show for kids.

‘Titans’ is a show that is mad at our world and prepared to fight it, fire against fire.

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opinion

Alexa Gustavsen Staff Writer Black Friday has seemed to have become its own national holiday with how much it has grown over the years. It’s a night full of waiting in long lines, being stuck in large crowds and spending too much money all in the name of savings.

It’s the time of year all retail workers dread and having worked two Black Friday weekends myself, I have a few thoughts.

Thanksgiving day has been plagued by Black Friday deals as many stores now open early evening on turkey day.

What happened to just spending time with your family and enjoying one another’s company?

Black Friday isn’t

What Has Black Friday Become?

also just one night or day anymore. It’s a whole weekend, and a nightmare for those who work in retail. Hours upon hours of dealing with customers who are grabbing as many things they can find, ringing customers out non-stop

and putting back the piles of clothes everyone leaves behind. All while making sure the customers are having a great and quick experience.

Customers in my experience tend to forget that employees have been working long hours

as fast as they can with little break time and sometimes even working 12-14 hour shifts day after day. If you have to wait in a line, don’t be mad at the employee.

They can’t control the fact that there is a line, you should have expect-

ed it to be honest. Retail workers are just trying to do their job and survive the night, so they can get some rest and come back the next day.

Black Friday over the years has become pure insanity. What was once a joyful experience with

Black Friday crowds. (image credit: Webroot.com)

friends and family to shop and save as much as possible for those holiday gifts has become pure chaos. People pushing one another to get in the store first and fighting over a TV or something even so simple as a dress.

What you see in the movies and all those crazy pictures are true when it comes to Black Friday, and all just to save a few bucks. Once a night of possible fun has become a materialistic holiday event that comes with you spending hundreds of dollars in the end. My advice to you is stay home and enjoy the holiday season with you family. If you do however decide to take on the night be safe and get your wallets ready.

The Mill City Grill Offers Hidden Gems of Flavor

Talib Williams Staff Writer

Out of all the food stations we have at SNHU, we can all agree that the “Mill City Grill” is the most popular one.

There was a time where the line was so long that it curved around towards the La Trattoria station. I bet you’ve never heard a line that long over at any Burger King, Five Guys or a McDonald’s, before have you? That’s what I thought.

Even so you have to wonder what The Grill puts in its food to make it so good. For instance, their patty melts consist of grilled cheese bread (white or wheat), melt the type of cheese you choose on to a beef patty, with any other toppings that you desire like bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, etc.

Then the patty melt is mashed all together to

make a delicious sandwich that can come with a side of chips, pickles, or their well-made fries and, personally, a patty melt is downright amazing to have with a side of honey mustard sauce.

As well as its patty melts, The Grill’s crispy

chicken sandwiches are my all-around favorites, especially the spicy ones because of the flavor that comes with it. Though unfortunately, the sandwiches are not really spicy. Just a few weeks ago, I had ordered a steak and cheese for the

first time, because I saw a few people order it.

Since all I’ve really eaten since I got to SNHU were patty melts, chicken tenders and crispy chicken sandwiches with the occasional fries on the side, I decided that my taste buds need-

ed a change in flavor.

If you haven’t ordered a steak and cheese yet, I tell you from experience that it will take about 5-10 minutes to make, but I swear to you that the wait is worth it once you get a width of the steak applied with

The Mill City Grill on a Saturday night. (image credit: Emma Sheehan)

the melted cheese, of your choosing of course, applied with some salt, maybe add some toppings, or perhaps with some sauce. I choose hot sauce, because hot sauce is king with any type of food, and once you take a nice large bite you’d wish you had ordered it sooner.

There are obviously more options on the menu, but I’ve only had a few of them. I’ll probably have a grilled cheese next time I check out the Grill. What will you have next? But really what makes the Grill so popular? Is there something they put in their burgers? Do they maximize the curliness in their curly fries? Did they add some kind of hidden ingredient towards there steak and chesses that make them so good? It’s questions like these that show how good the Mill City Grills food really is.

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page 11

sports

Volleyball closes season with loss to southern cT

Tim Charvat Staff Writer

On November 6, the Penmen Volleyball season came to an end, after losing a heavily competitive 3-0 quarterfinal in the NE10 Championship at Southern Connecticut University. This was the first time the Penmen Volleyball team have competed in the postseason since 2015, and proves how far the volleyball program has come since a 7-21 season in 2016.

The season began on August 2 when they were shut out 3-0 at Shepard College. They wouldn’t earn their first win until

the next day when they beat Saint Anselm. After this win, the Penmen would go on to the first of two stretches of losses. They lost five in a row between September seventh and fifteenth and lost seven out of their first eight games. This brought back memories of the 2016 season.

However, the Penmen would quickly bounce back, winning seven of their next eight games. On October 13, the Penmen faced off against the heavily favored Pace University after a crushing loss to Adelphi the previous night. They lost the first two sets and Pace outmatched the Penmen in

every round. However, the Penmen would complete a miraculous comeback, winning the next three sets to complete the upset. Their win was their first victory over Pace in two years.

Things were looking up for the Penmen, however early struggles came back to haunt them. They would lose five out of the last seven regular season games.

Their final loss was to Southern Connecticut University in the quarterfinals of the Northeast 10 championship tournament. This was their first appearance in the championship in three years.

men’s soccer ends with loss

Alex Satrustegui looks for the ball. (image credit: SNHU Penmen) Spencer Fennell Staff Writer The Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) men’s soccer team took a trip to Garden City, NY to face off against Adelphi in the semifinals of the Northeast-10 conference championships on November 2. The Penmen went in with promise as they held a two game winning streak, and they were ready to garner revenge against a strong Adelphi lineup who previously beat them 4-2 on September 29 at Penmen Stadium.

However, Adelphi was

once again victorious, beating the Penmen 1-0 at Adelphi’s Garden City campus.

The first and only point scored throughout the entire game was scored in the first fifteen minutes of the match

by Adelphi’s Taylor Kaczynski. Although this ended up being the only point scored, the game was still rather close with the Penmen getting seven shots on goal and 22 shots overall.

The closest the Penmen had to a goal was one in the 89th minute when graduate student Jonathan Cruickshank took a shot at the goal,

forcing Adelphi’s goalkeeper, Matt Apicella, to make a save that prevented the goal the Penmen needed to tie the game.

The Penmen played well with many shots on goal throughout the game and even had 13 shots and two on goal shots in the opening stanza. The defensive side on Adelphi was extremely strong, especially at the hands of Apicella, who stopped seven shots throughout the game.

The Penmen played strong and never gave up, despite the first goal from Adelphi occurring so early in the game. This loss had broken a two game winning streak but the players fought to the end.

Although the Penmen didn’t win the semifinals, they still showed what they were capable of The Penmen are now gearing up for the spring season and are prepping for challenging matches ahead that will prepare them for the 2019 season.

Members of the volleyball team cheering. (image credit: SNHU Penmen)

Women’s Soccer Cut Short Rosa Valente News Editor

The Women’s soccer team had their 2018 quest to be crowned Northeast 10 Conference Champions for the second year in a row snatched by Assumption College on November 2 at Penmen Stadium. The Penmen suffered a crushing defeat, 2-0, ending their chances of victory.

The Penmen finished the season with a 14-4-3 record and a .738 winning percentage. They scored a total of 42 goals, averaging two goals per game. Their conference record was 10-2-2.

Freshman Dorthea Glorud (‘22), who scored six goals and made seven assists across her first season with the Penmen, explained that she felt the team has an abundance of talented players, but could have done much better in their game against Assumption.

“I think we played

an under-average game against Assumption, where we didn’t succeed in the defensive or the offensive play,” said Glorud. “We produced many chances, but didn’t finish them.”

Glorud also explained that the team came second in the conference overall, and while it was a disappointment that they did not come in first, she felt they still had a “good performance.”

“The games in this conference are all tough, so we have to be at our sharpest in order to win.

Against assumption, we were not, and that’s something that happens to all teams,” said Glorud.

Head Coach Elie Monteiro also commended the team for their hard work this season. He felt that the team as a whole did well in integrating their new players due to the “strong leadership” on the team.

“We placed expecta-

tions to be the best version of ourselves every day. We understood that this was a different team to last year so we had a new set of goals to work for.,” said Monteiro.

Monteiro agreed with Glorud’s statements about the team’s performance in the game against Assumption saying that the team created many chances for themselves and it “was among the best performances we’ve put together in attack this season,” but the team wasn’t “able to capitalize on those chances we created.”

Monteiro explained that even with the losses that the team has suffered, he has hope for next year.

“We’ have some talented players coming in next year who will add a lot to the team.

We’ll need to take the experiences from this season and use that as fuel during the growing season (winter/spring semester) workouts,” said Monteiro.

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sports

page 12

Carving Ice to Spinning Fire: Who is Brett Strawn?

Catherine LaChance Sports Editor Maddie Covino Community Relations Manager

Whether he’s wowing fans on the ice or entertaining crowds on the dance floor, Brett Strawn is assured to provide an upbeat performance.

Strawn, a senior at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), is the alternate captain of the hockey team and a part-time DJ. Strawn embarked on his hockey career when he was just two and a half years old when he would roller skate around his home in Wareham, Massachusetts. At age four, he began skating at ice rinks.

When Strawn turned six, his father enrolled him in an organized youth hockey program.

He began as a mite, the entry-level player, then climbed the ladder to reach the pee wee, bantam and midget levels, going through three rankings of youth hock-

ey as a midget.

Strawn attended Winchendon Boarding School in Winchendon, Massachusetts where he studied through his senior year.

He chose to relocate to Wareham High School halfway through his senior year for the opportunity to play junior hockey.

Strawn earned a position on the Boston Bruins Premier Team after displaying a tremendous performance his senior year. After notching 35 points during his senior season, Strawn joined the junior team for the 2014-2015 season.

Peter Masters, Strawn’s junior hockey coach, prepared him for the collegiate level, which was always a longtime goal of Strawn’s. He pushed him day in and day out and encouraged him to be a threat on the ice. “(Masters) did everything he could do for me as far as getting to the next level…I can’t thank him enough for that,”

Strawn said.

Strawn joined the SNHU Penmen in the fall of 2015 as a forward.

Prior to his junior year, he was given the title of alternative capitan, which he still holds today.

Strawn didn’t begin playing games with the Penmen until his sophomore season due to redshirting his freshman year. Since his game debut sophomore season, he has played in 61 games, scored 16 goals and made 31 assists, for a total of 47 career points.

“It’s a grind,” Strawn said about playing with the Penmen. “It’s a lot on the body. We practice everyday for a few hours for about 10-20 hours each week.”Frequent practices and rigorous training regimes motivate Strawn and prepare him to accomplish difficult plays and techniques in games.

Captain Chris Moquin and Strawn are credited for a specific, highly effective play they created during practices. They penned it, the

Strawn is SNHU Hockey’s alternate captain. (image credit: SNHU Penmen)

Brett Strawn spining tracks. (image credit: Brett Strawn) “Ooo Baby.” name, Strawn looked to rush, best moment of my “I go behind the net his teammates for ideas. life.” and I give him a be- He messaged them in Opening for hind the back pass and a team group chat and GrooveBoston sparked 9 times out of 10 he received many sugges- Strawn’s DJ-ing career. scores… that’s definitely tions, but there was one He landed a part-time gig the most fun and crazy that stuck: DJ Sterno. headlining at Whiskey’s play because not a lot of The name “Sterno” 20 on Thursday nights. teams are expecting it,” comes from a previous Strawn likes to play Strawn said. hockey coach who could mixes based off a crowd’s Whether it’s with not pronounce Strawn’s energy. He plays various Moquin or any of the name. He instead would genres of music ranging guys on the team, Strawn call him “Sterno.” They from EDM to country. said the team chemistry thought of it as a joke, “I like playing everythis year is the best he but it stuck. thing,” Strawn said. has ever seen. The team Strawn has always Strawn expressed was unsure about the had a passion for DJ-ing. how DJ-ing is difficult to plethora of incoming He would make mixes master. freshman, but Strawn in high school, but only It takes time, but he noted they gelled with viewed DJ-ing as a side dedicates it to producing the upperclassmen bet- hobby. enthusiastic, high enter than expected.

This viewpoint ergy music crowds will “Our team looks like changed when he got love.“I’m still learning,” a well oiled machine,” to college. He got his Strawn said. “It’s a lot of Strawn said. “Our team big break junior year long hours [and] diffiis very strong this year; when he opened for cult work, but it’s super we have a great group of GrooveBoston at last fun.” guys that are willing to year’s SNHU Stock. It Whether he’s scorgo the extra mile for one was in that moment ing goals at the rink or another.” While Strawn when an activity he spinning mixes at the continues to dominate previously viewed as a club, Strawn never fails the ice with his team, he fun hobby transformed to provide fans with a is pursuing another pas- into an exhilarating, fun, energetic perforsion of his, DJ-ing. life-changing gig. mance they won’t forget.

The hockey team “I have always had a Catch Strawn Friday, circled in support of passion for music and December 1 at 6:40 p.m.

Strawn’s interest and DJ-ing, and that just put when he takes the rink even helped him con- all of my perspectives at the Ice Den with the struct his stage name. together,’ Strawn said. Penmen and Thursday When it came time “That was by far the nights as DJ Sterno at to brainstorm a stage most crazy adrenaline Whiskey’s.