Volume 93/Issue ii
THE
September 9TH, 2019
ANCHOR
Rhode Island College’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1928
Donovan Dining Center: catering to food inflation Abigail Nilsson News Editor “The only thing that went down at Donovan Dining Center were the [fountain] juice prices,” said Arthur Patrie, The Director of Dining and Retail Services at Rhode Island College. Upon returning to school, students who live on campus and purchase a mandatory meal plan noticed an increase in food and beverage prices, along with an inflation of meal plan costs. Among these students is RIC Junior Emily Page who created a petition and is also helping to organize the “Don Did Me Dirty Sit In” at the dining center on Sept.11th from 12-2 p.m. “This is a problem that has been going on for a while,” said Page, “it needs to be addressed, and this is us addressing it.” Student Community GovPhoto by Thomas Crudale
Bubble, bubble, boiler and trouble Alison Darmetko Staff Writer Situated on the lawn of Alger Hall, behind the Alex and Ani building, is a hole about three feet in width that is spewing copious amounts of steam. After a week of interest and curiosity, the mysterious hole between Alger Hall and the Alex and Ani building has been identified and its origins have been explained. Below the small patch of grass situated next to Alger Hall rests a pipe that connects the building’s boiler room to the steam plant located behind Whipple Hall. This pipe burst during the
last few weeks of summer break during the Craig Lee renovations, producing the aforementioned hole and the steam that accompanied it. The rain that fell on August 28th had changed the appearance of the hole. Instead of the original steaming hole, there is now a pool of boiling mud that is still producing a large cloud of steam. Yellow caution tape now surrounds the hole to warn people from getting too close to the boiling pit. According to workers, this particular pipe has been in place since RIC was built. Meaning this pipe was installed back in 1858. When the pipe broke, steam from the boiler in Alger Hall began to escape upwards, through the patch of dirt eventually breaking
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through the surface of the ground leading to a gaping hole. This pit then began to release a single plume of steam. In other words, the cloud itself is not poisonous or toxic. The tape was put
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ernment President Joshua Percey said in an email to The Anchor, “SCG is working on a statement at this time involving these concerns.” Page feels that students at RIC deserve to be served good food for the price that they are paying. Students and alumni who signed the petition feel that the menu is lacking healthy food options while being overpriced. Petition signee, Lillian Brietzke who lived on campus for four years said, “when I got home from college this past spring my blood sugar and cholesterol were so high I was borderline pre-diabetes, but after two months of being home and not eating Don food I was back to normal.” “We recognize the need to provide options and are working to make sure the customers are aware of their options” said Patrie in re-
sponse to student health concerns regarding the food. He also said that there is a registered dietician on campus that is available to work with students and their individual dietary needs. There are currently no nutritional facts about the hot meals, sandwiches and self serve options in Don posted anywhere, but Patrie noted that there should be more information available regarding this. Patrie is working with vendors to offer more options for students while accounting for the cost of inflation. “We don’t have the luxury to have multiple dining rooms like URI, but that is why we don’t close down between meals. By not shutting down [during meal times] we can work with students and their schedules.” The Cafe is open later than Don and students can use their bonus points there. See Page 4, “Inflation”
in place to help keep people away from the unstable ground and hot vapor. The situation of the boiling mudhole is soon to be resolved and the pipe replaced. Currently, workers are replacing and repairing the pipe system between the Henry Barnard School
and Craig-Lee Hall, and are following the pipes towards Alger Hall. Workers have set up fence barriers surrounding the danger zone and have begun to move equipment over to the site, indicating the project may begin sooner rather than later.
Sinkhole on the lawn of Alger Hall; Photo by Mark Medeiros
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The Anchor is student-run and published weekly during the academic year. Editorial decisions for The Anchor are made by a majority vote of its student editorial board. No form of censorship will be imposed by the college. Any material found to be unsuitable or unacceptable in the board’s opinion will not be published. The views expressed in The Anchor, unless otherwise noted, are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent those of The Anchor or of Rhode Island College’s faculty, administration or student body. The Anchor is not funded by and is independent from Rhode Island College. The first copy is free. Each additional copy is $2.25. Newspaper racks on the Rhode Island College campus are the property of The Anchor Newspaper. Only The Anchor Newspaper publication will be permitted on these racks. Any other publication or advertisement that is placed on the racks will be given one (1) warning for violating this policy. After two (2) violations, the business/publication will be billed at the rate of a full page advertisement. Copyright © 2016 The Anchor. All rights reserved.
Legalities:
News See something, say something Abigail Nilsson News Editor Mass shootings have been making headlines over the past several weeks killing dozens of people and injuring many more. Walmart is discontinuing the sales of handgun ammunition in their stores and is asking their patrons to withhold from openly carrying firearms, even in states that allow it. Rhode Island College does not have one single active shooter protocol said Chief of Campus Police and Director of Security and Safety Colonel James Mendonca, “and it isn’t that black and white.” According to Mendonca, the best thing students can do is “anytime something happens that doesn’t feel right, or the hair on the back of your neck stands up, call us. Maintain a safe distance, and make a call with as much information as possible.” This past week a disturbance was reported, suspicious activity, and disorderly conduct on campus. Campus police are required to comply with col-
Photo by Mark Medeiros lege student privacy laws when giving out information related to crimes on campus. RIC is required by the Clery Act to release an Annual Security Report by October 1st. “The Clery Act is a federal law requiring colleges and universities that receive federal financial assistance to disclose annually, certain statistics and information about campus crime and safety and security policies to current and prospective students
and employees. Campus Police prepares this report by collecting relevant information and statistics from Campus Security Authorities, campus departments and local law enforcement.” The crimes reported in the Annual Security Report include, but are not limited to, murder, manslaughter, rape, robbery, assault, motorvehicle theft, arson, and drug, alcohol, and weapon related arrests on campus.
At this time, RIC Campus Police are working on updating their procedures, protocols, and policy regarding safety and violence. Mendonca also is working on updating the RICAlert system. According to the RIC website, this is a text related system that is meant to spread pertinent information to students and faculty that is both “accurate and timely.” Rhode Island does allow open carry of a weapon with
a Rhode Island License to Carry a Concealed Weapon that is issued by the Attorney General. With that being said, RIC does not allow weapons of any kind on campus. Campus police to work with the Providence Police, North Providence Police, Johnston Police, and the RI State Police to ensure the safety of everyone on campus. They will be holding their first annual RIC Night Out on Sept. 12 from 4-6 p.m.
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News
Aerial control spraying for EEE Abigail Nilsson News Editor The Rhode Island Department of Health and Department of Environmental Management dropped pellets containing a larvicide, Bti, or Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, which dissolves in water to kill mosquito larvae different in RI locations that officials deemed “critical-risk” for mosquitoes carrying EEE last Thursday. These locations included Chapman Swamp in Westerly, the South Branch area of the Pawtuxet River in West Warwick, and the Valley Marsh area around Central Falls, Cumberland, and Lincoln. A release from the RIDOH and DEM said there will be spraying for Eatern Equine Encephalitis
(EEE) carrying mosquitos, depending on the weather, on September 8. This is the first aerial spraying of mosquitoes in the state since 1996 in RI. This spraying will cover an area of about 110,000 acres, including parts of Northern RI. The state will be using Anvil 10+10 in the aerial spraying. According to a press release, this product has been used for over 20 years in both ground-level and aerial spraying, and has proved to be extremely effective in killing adult mosquitoes. This product is being used at low concentrations and no adverse health reactions are expected. “Although spraying will take place in a few select sites in Rhode Island, people in these communities and throughout the state should
continue to take precautions to prevent mosquito bites,” said RIDOH Deputy Director Ana Novais. “Your first line of protection remains limiting time outdoors at sunrise and sundown, wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outside, and using EPA-approved bug spray that has DEET.” The remainder of Hurricane Dorian heading north can impact the spraying schedule. Spraying will take place during dusk hours, when the wind is not blowing, and with a temperature above 58 degrees to kill adult mosquitoes when they are most active. For additional information regarding mosquito spraying visit http://www.health.ri.gov/ disease/carriers/mosquitoes/ about/spraying/ or call 211 for helpful facts or concerns. Graphic Courtesy of Rhode Island
Inflation Continued from cover
Meal plans A, B, and C increased by 3.5%, while Meal plan D had a 14.2% rise. Each meal plan allows for a certain amount of meals per week, guest passes per semester, and bonus cash. In comparison to the 2018-2019 academic year, Meal Plan A now has two additional guest passes, Meal Plan B had three guest passes removed, Meal Plan C had a meal per week removed along with four guest passes, and Meal Plan D had three guest passes per semester removed.
Residential meal plan options 2018-2019 Bonus Guest Plan Meals Cost Dollars Passes
Residential meal plan options 2019-2020 Guest Passes
Bonus Dollars
Plan
Meals
Cost
A
19 Meals per week in DDC
12 Passes $100 bonus per semester dollars for the at DDC semester
$2,614 per semester
B
14 Meals per week in DDC
9 Passes $175 bonus per semester dollars for the at DDC semester
$2,533 per semester
A
19 Meals per week in DDC
8 Passes $100 bonus per semester dollars for the at DDC semester
$2,525 per semester
B
14 Meals per week in DDC
12 Passes $175 bonus per semester dollars for the at DDC semester
$2,447 per semester
C
13 Meals per week in DDC
12 Passes $250 bonus per semester dollars for the at DDC semester
$2,375 per semester
C
12 Meals per week in DDC
8 Passes $250 bonus per semester dollars for the at DDC semester
$2,458 per semester
D
10 Meals per week in DDC
9 Passes $150 bonus per semester dollars for the at DDC semester
$1,795 per semester
D
10 Meals per week in DDC
6 Passes $150 bonus per semester dollars for the at DDC semester
$2,050 per semester
“Food insecurity among college students is already too prevalent” Anthony Maselli commented on the petition. Joseph Ferriera, alumnus and significant donor to the RIC Foundation, said, “No student on a meal plan at RIC should be faced with concerns of worrying about choosing between obtaining sufficient meals or prematurely draining their meal accounts.”
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News Rhode Island College Police Log September 1, 2019 10:53 p.m. - Found/Lost Property. Location: M Lot
September 2, 2019
04:32 p.m. - Assist Citizen. Location: L Lot
September 3, 2019
07:56 a.m. - Suspicious Activity Reported. Location: L Lot 04:45 p.m. - Medical Emergency. Location: Willard Hall 08:11 p.m. - Found/Lost Property. Location: Donovan Dining Center/ Student Union Loop 11:07 p.m. - Medical Emergency. Location: Sweet Hall
September 4, 2019
11:34 a.m. - Medical Emergency. Location: Health Center 01:46 p.m. - Parking Complaint. Location: Library Road 03:05 p.m. - Medical Emergency. Location: Gaige Hall 03:30 p.m. - Found/Lost Property. Location: RIC Police Department 06:15 p.m. - Found/Lost Property. Location: Campus Mall
September 5, 2019 09:59 a.m. - Motor Vehicle Accident. Location: 6th Ave 10:40 a.m. - Assist Citizen. Location: I Lot 10:50 a.m. - Disorderly Conduct. Location: Library Road 02:28 p.m. - Property Damage. Location: Fogarty Life Science 06:06 p.m. - Motor Vehicle Accident. Location: Greenville Ave 07:54 p.m. - Disturbance. Location: College Road (Gone On Arrival - Could Not Locate) 10:55 p.m. - Complaint. Location : Student Union Loop (GOA)
September 6, 2019 05:35 a.m. - Found/Lost Property. Location: Alger Hall
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News
Speed cameras in Providence back in use Sean Richer Asst. News Editor After a brief hiatus from use, many of the speed cameras in the Providence area are operational again, with the system expanding to various new locations such as Broad St, Cranston St, Douglas Ave, Branch Ave and Academy Ave. These locations are specifically targeted near schools in an effort to protect students as they make their morning commute. The Providence Public Safety office sent out a tweet urging drivers to use extra caution in school zones saying, “Speed enforcement begins so go slow for our precious kids and teachers.” According
to Public Information Officer, Lindsay Lague, the cameras will be active between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. The installation of these cameras have created a dramatic spike in speeding tickets, tallying to over 17,000 between January and March of 2018 alone, according to the Providence Municipal Court. The cameras are also moved to areas where infractions happen most frequently. The state has also made changes to how tickets are reviewed. Upon recording an infraction, the photo will be examined by both an assigned Police Officer and an employee of Conduent, the company that produces the cameras. Details on the exact review process still remain unknown. The
ticket will then be mailed to suspected offender. This change in traffic enforcement has been very controversial all over the
state, with some drivers complaining about a lack of due process, and the need to be constantly vigilant for these
Troubles continue in Hong Kong Sean Richer Asst. News Editor
Photo by South China Morning Post
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Yet another day of unrest unfolded on the streets of Hong Kong in front of the United States Consulate Sunday night. This round of protests called for the passing of a bill in the U.S. Congress that would punish Chinese officials who are able to prosecute individuals in the semi-independent state. This new spike in tension came just days after the Chief Executive of Hong Kong, Carrie Lam repealed the controversial extradition bill that seemed to spark the violence in the first place. While it began as a peaceful demonstration, protesters soon took to smashing windows and setting fires at the nearby train station, blocking crucial commuter routes. Many of the protesters called for U.S. intervention in this matter, Chanting in english, “Free Hong Kong!” and “Resist Beijing!”. Many demonstrators were also seen waving American flags and singing “The Star Spangled Banner”.This has led to a precarious situation between Washington and Beijing, as China has already
Photo by Mark Medeiros cameras which caused their initial shut down. It remains to be seen if this new round of cameras will be here to stay.
begun fashioning this unrest as an American-backed provocation. The Whitehouse has not yet issued a formal response to these allegations. These protests have also put an enormous strain on the Hong Kong economy. This instability could in turn bring about a wider economic crisis, due to Hong Kong’s position as a world trading hub. These fears have not deterred many in the city, as protester named Brian Chan explained, “Freedom and democracy is more important than economics...The economy of Hong Kong is good, but most people don’t benefit.” While the repeal of the aforementioned extradition bill may have been a good step, it does not seem like it has put a stop to the political unrest Hong kong has been suffering from. China’s President, Xi Jinping urged his colleagues within the Communist Party to avoid, “incompetence” as well as, “Being divorced from the public.” which may hint to doubts about his handling of the situation. However, as these recent events have made plain to see, the divide between Hong Kong and Beijing is much deeper than previously thought.
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Arts&Entertainment Pop Culture Report
Gender and Women’s Studies is raising awareness through film
Drug dealer involved with late rapper, Mac Miller’s death has been arrested Brad Pitt’s latest film “Ad Ashra” premieres at Venice film festival Bad Boys re-amp “Bad Boys For Life” starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence release 1st trailer R. Kelly, federal sex crimes trial set for April 2020 Lana Del Rey releases 5th studio album “Norman Fucking Rockwell!” Post Malone releases third album “Hollywood’s Bleeding” Disney+ streaming service projected to reach 82 million subscribers by 2024 Will Poulter will lead Amazon’s upcoming “Lord of Rings” series Crazy Rich Asians co-writer exits sequel after complaints of pay disparity Nicki Minaj announces retirement from musical career
Sophia Guerrier A&E Editor “Agents of Change: The Longest Student Strike in U.S. History” was presented by the Gender and Women’s Studies program last Wednesday during one of the busiest free periods of the year: Student’s Activities Day. Despite the mishap of scheduling the socially aware film while a student club-frenzy occured on the quad, there are still a handful of films for RIC students to enjoy for free through-
Graphic Courtesy of Kanopy out the rest of the semester. Running for over five years, the G&W film series features films that pertain to the topics of sexuality, race and social awareness that are relevant in educating students about typically unfamiliar social issues in society. Alexis Rogel, an administrative member of the graduate studies department, performs a key role in selecting the films and conducting the series. “I’ll go on the internet and find what I think will introduce students to topics they might not get unless they’re
specifically going for a gender and race class,” said Rogel. “We do try to keep in mind that there are a lot of different identities on campus and there are a lot of different identities that students want and should see reflected.” “A Biology student might not ever experience a course that talks about identities as much as we try to promote it in connections courses and general education courses. It might not be something they really experience unless they’re able to have a low stakes place they’re able to hang out, eat
New Jersey native released his debut self-titled album in September 2015 and has been nominated for two Grammy Awards. His most recent performance was at the MTV Video Music Awards two weeks ago.
This is not Wap’s first encounter with the law. Back in 2017 he was arrested in Brooklyn, NY, for driving under the influence while drag racing at over 100 mph. He plead guilty and was ordered to pay a fine and
lunch, and experience something,” continued Rogel. G&W studies program also attempts to involve students in the process of the film series by taking suggestions and encouraging students to set up the films and distribute promotional flyers and posters around RIC. In the past, G&W has collaborated with Africana Studies to host events as well. “It helps to build community and it helps to broaden the classroom experience. What students are learning in their classes can be further completed or developed by a film,” said Leslie Schuster, Director of Gender and Women’s Studies, “RIC students are always very busy and it’s nice to just chill out with someone you know and watch a movie.” The next film screening will be “But I’m a Cheerleader”, a satirical comedy about a teenage cheerleader whose sent to a conversion therapy camp to “cure” her suspected lesbianism. The film will be shown at Gaige 005 on Sept. 18 at 12:30 p.m., popcorn will be served.
Fetty Wap arrested in Las Vegas Juliana Karbonik Anchor contributor
28-year-old rapper Willie Maxwell, popularly known as Fetty Wap, was arrested over Labor Day weekend after allegedly assaulting three hotel employees in Las Vegas. Wap was taken into custody by the Las Vegas Police Department, according to local news and police. The famous rapper first hit a parking attendant following a verbal dispute, which then escalated into two more employees at the Mirage Hotel and Casino reportedly being punched. Wap has been charged with three counts of battery, all counts being misdemeanors. He has been released from police custody and is due back in court this October. Best known for his 2014 single “Trap Queen,” the
Photo by Billboard take safe driving lessons. As of now, neither the rapper nor his representatives have made any comments on his arrest.
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Arts&Entertainment 11 Weeks of Pure Heroine: Tennis Court In this 11 week series, I will be lightly or heavily, depending on my mood that week, analyzing each song from Lorde’s 10-track debut album, “Pure Heroine”, which is undeniably one of the masterpiece LPs from any pop artist in this millennium. Sophia Guerrier A&E Editor In the second installment of my “Pure Heroine” analysis column, we will be exploring the first track and the second hit single off the album, “Tennis Court”. An electro/hip hop, nostalgic rendition of Lorde’s sudden stardom, “Tennis Court” serves as an introduction to Lorde’s attitude towards fame and the subjective lens she takes on her present life as a teenage girl dispatched from her regular suburban life. From the jump, Lorde radiates a disconnected attitude in the beginning two lines of the song. “Don’t you think that it’s boring how people talk, making smart with their words again, well I’m bored.” Not only does Lorde declare that she’s bored once, but twice; an emphasis on her criticism of poor, shallow conversation assumingly from people within the music industry. “Making smart with their words again” describes the empty, careless talk that happens within the industry that is only powered behind the motive of money; it can also be a judgement towards people in society who try to sound more important than they actually are by boosting their ego through self-proclamations. As the first two lines are being sung, there’s a very soft 808, that sounds like a tennis ball being bounced on a court. Just like a tennis ball bouncing, boastful, superficial conversation is very recognizable and an experience that Lorde is insinuating that we’re all able to distinguish. Following these lines are a present attitude that Lorde has accepted with her newfound stardom and wealth. “Because I’m doing this for the thrill of it, killin’ it, never not chasing a million things I want, and I am only as young
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Graphic Courtesy of Britannica as the minute is full of it, getting pumped up from the little bright things I bought.” Despite the distrust and skepticism of the music industry that Lorde has gained, she doesn’t completely reject the idea of her fame because of her passion for music and temporary youth. She was only 16 years old when she wrote this LP and garnered recognition around the world; teenage pop stardom is obviously a rarity and she’s welcoming the benefits of it, especially the money. That line will serve as a contradiction to Lorde’s later criticism of consumerism as she admittingly falls victim to it with her accumulating wealth. Despite this, Lorde reiterates that materialism won’t be the demise of her character as she sings, “But I know they’ll never own me.” There’s an iconic line from the 1999 Drama film “Fight Club” that says, “the things you own end up owning you.” Considering that the film rallies around the irrelevant need of materialism and how living minimally can mentally set you free, Lorde may be referencing this line out of
humility, since she now has the ability to live lavishly. Also worth noting is the repeated, distorted “Yeah” at the ending line of each verse and twice during the chorus. “Yeah” is commonly a word used in a conversation when someone is relatively not paying attention to the speaker. When the speaker is done, “yeah” can be used as a simple response pretending to understand or as a sarcastic remark as well. The use of the “yeah” can be tied back to the first two lines of insignificant conversation or Lorde’s way of symbolizing inconsistency or actual indifference to what she claims. “But I know they’ll never own me (Yeah).” Now moving on to the catchy-melodic pop chorus. “Baby be the class clown, I’ll be the beauty queen in tears.” Two high school related references that also juxtapose themselves, a class clown and a beauty queen. Class clown being the jokester, careless, kid while the beauty queen is more protective of her image and cares what people think. “In tears” could also mean the beauty queen is actually sad and burdened with
the responsibility to always retain attention or the very stereotypical act of her crying when she doesn’t win. Lorde’s perception of self as a beauty queen is likely an exposure to her inner insecurities in which she has to protect because she is now in the public eye. “It’s a new art form showing people how little we care (yeah), we’re so happy, even when we’re smilin’ out of fear” are the next two lines continuing the high school narrative. A major stereotype of teenagers are that they are careless, unbothered people who only care about themselves. A stereotype indeed but could also be a generalization that can hold true to especially suburban teens. Lorde then tears down this generalization, claiming it is a facade held up by teens to hide the uncertainties of fast-coming adulthood. Smiling can also be related back to pictures, which are a dominant medium in the social media age. Pictures can be deceiving just like the smiles that she mentions and will later go on to sing, “it looked alright in the pictures (yeah).”
Again, we hear that “yeah” which could be sarcasm. After voicing reminiscent and present feelings throughout the song, we near the end of the track and arrive at the bridge, where Lorde now brings to attention her possible future downfall as a celebrity in singing “I fall apart, with all my heart, And you can watch from your window.” Lorde essentially acknowledges the possibility of this while the public watches from the window; a metaphor of celebrity worship culture, the window symbolizing a screen like our phones or televisions where access to lives we have no connection with are on surveillance constantly. On an ending note there’s been speculation that “Tennis Court” is a reference to the Tennis Court Oath, the historic moment during the French Revolution where the third estate, the poor, legitimized themselves and started to go against the old regime … at a tennis court. This could easily relate back to Lorde’s themes of aristocracy but could also just be a theory.
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Arts&Entertainment 13 Reasons Why: The controversial hit show TRIGGER WARNING: Please be advised that this article goes over the sensitive themes contained in the Netflix series: 13 Reasons Why. Some of these themes include sexual assault, suicide, and drug abuse. Please take caution, as some of these themes might be triggering. Brynn Terry Asst. Copy Editor
Following the release of the series “13 Reasons Why” in 2017, streaming platform Netflix has been under both scrutiny and praise for the series’ graphic depictions of several topics including suicide, sexual assault, drug abuse and child neglect. The first season of the series closely follows Jay Asher’s novel on which the show is based, revolving around the suicide of teenager Hannah Baker. Hannah leaves behind 13 cassette tapes, to be passed down to 13 people whose actions Baker believes contributed towards her reasons for committing suicide. The scene in which Hannah kills herself, a notably graphic depiction of her slitting her wrists in her family’s bathtub, has become a topic of great discussion and controversy. Netflix has since decided to remove that scene from the season. The announcement of the decision came in July 2019, almost exactly a month before the streaming platform released its third season of “13 Reasons Why” this August. While removing the suicide
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Graphic Courtesy of Forge scene, Netflix maintains to keep other graphic scenes in the series, including multiple scenes depicting rape and sexual assault. Nikki Chalifoux, RIC student and 90.7 WXIN Alternative Director, believes that the scene could possibly give people with suicidal thoughts an idea of how to end their lives. “I think it might have overstepped a little bit too far,” said Chalifoux, “(The scene) gave a real bright axis to a younger generation of what they can do and have a way out, when they shouldn’t.”
Chalifoux reflected the potential positive impact of the show, stating “Maybe that’s (graphic scenes) how we can start having conversations... People get very uncomfortable and don’t want to have those kinds of conversations, but it’s getting worse.” Sandra Faria, a licensed Mental Health Clinician at the RIC Counseling Center, advises against watching “13 Reasons Why”, especially to those who may have gone through some of the events portrayed in the show. “It could trigger some symptoms or memories of trauma,” said Faria.
Faria also displayed concern that the producers of “13 Reasons Why” did not provide enough support or alternate outcomes by not showing Hannah getting help for her suicidal thoughts. “I feel like that doesn’t really offer much support for people who are watching and feel the same way,” explained Faria, “It kind of just offers the one way out.” The creators of “13 Reasons Why” have since produced a companion series entitled “13 Reasons Why: Beyond the Reasons” in which the cast of “13 Reasons Why” speak
with mental health professionals on some of the issues portrayed in the show, one episode for each season. Netflix additionally launched, https://13reasonswhy.info , where resources to sucide chat lines can be accessed. If you or someone you know is in need of help, please contact the RIC HOPE Line at 401-456-HOPE (4673), or the RIC Counseling Center, located in the Browne Residence Hall.
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Arts&Entertainment
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Opinions What does art class do for your future? Kyra Garabedian Anchor Contributor “Art Class is just about learning how to draw and paint and that isn’t going to help students prepare for the real world.” Many individuals consider this to be the truth, overlooking the true goals of taking art classes and ultimately why it’s critical for education. Sure, creating excellent artwork is a common goal of teaching art to students from kindergarten to university, but it is not the most important goal in the classroom. As a student in the art education program, I have observed many stereotypes about taking art classes. I hope to open up your mind to the endless possibilities of
learning in an art classroom. The National Visual Art Standards were created in 2014 to articulate the true goals of teaching art in schools. The standards are broken into four main categories: Creating, Presenting, Responding, and Connecting. Under these categories are eleven anchor standards which have specific goals for each grade level to prepare students for college and beyond. The National Visual Art Standards serve as a backbone for art educators’ curriculum while allowing flexibility for the personalization of lessons. The standards require teachers to balance their content to meet the four major categories as equally as possible. Producing good
artwork is only a quarter of the ultimate goal in an art classroom. Students will be challenged in a number of different ways that don’t specifically require a finished piece of artwork in the end. Despite common misconceptions, there are other educational standards that art teachers are striving for their students to meet. With there being no set curriculum for art teachers across the country to follow, some criticize the teaching of art. Many argue that having this amount of freedom as an educator to personalize lesson plans is a flaw. Often times the fickleness of art teachers can be a source of frustration of students in an art class. However, fluidity in art classes can actually
be more engaging and effective for both the students and the teacher. Visual arts are not taught in the same way as other subjects such as math and science, and they shouldn’t be. An open mind is needed in an art class. Art education is not just about learning how to draw and paint. Art education is about learning how to see the world. Art education is learning how to communicate through a visual language. Art education is a way for students to express themselves in their own way. Art education is about problem solving. Art education is about choice. After speaking with some Rhode Island College students about taking a visual art class to fulfill their college
general education requirement it seems many of them are very reluctant. Some students prefer taking an art history seminar just because they believe they will fail an art class since they don’t consider themselves an artist. However, the truth is, everyone can be an artist. All it takes is an open mind. I understand some students fulfill their art general education requirements in other ways for various reasons, which is their choice. However, I hope this information helps make it clear that taking an art class isn’t just about being able to draw and paint. Taking an art class will provide so much more for students of any age if we stop limiting art with stereotypes.
Let them eat grilled cheese Alison Macbeth Opinions Editor One day your grilled cheese was $3.25. You blink, summer fades into fall and you’re staring at the same grilled cheese. Here’s the catch, it’s $5.50 now. RIC’s recent debacle, raising prices at the Donovan Dining Center, has students up in arms. Famous for questionable food, Don has come to typify recurring issues at RIC-- the lack of accountability the administration has, as well as Student Community Government. Theoretically, student government is comprised of members of the campus community who can represent the students in issues pertaining to their college career. For the current student body there should be 48 undergraduate representatives, two graduate representatives and six non-students, according to SCG President Josh Percy. As of this week, there are only eight student parliament members. This leaves 40 undergraduate and two graduate seats open. This outrageous deficit of student government members exemplifies the lack of students involved in the intricacies of campus life. RIC students are unique in the sense that we work more than the typical college student. Hopefully, this leaves RIC alumni with less debt than the average college student. However, with our attention divided, RIC students have less time to have their ears to the ground and know what is happening on campus. Then things like grilled cheese sandwhich’s price tag doubling happens. The more that students are involved and pushing back on the decisions of the administration the healthier and more student-focused campus will be. Ultimately, Don’s raised prices is a call for RIC students to get involved and stay involved on campus. Students have the power to affect change. Don Did Me Dirty Sit In leader, Emily Page, is an excellent example of making student’s voices heard on campus. For now, students can amplify her message by being part of the sit in on September 11th from 12-2 p.m. But in order to maintain and represent the student body’s voice on campus, students must stay involved in the mundane activities. Maybe for you, that’s running for a parliament seat. For me, it is being part of the Anchor. Thankfully, in the meantime, grilled cheese are back to a healthy price of $3.25.
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The views expressed in The Anchor, unless otherwise noted, are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent those of The Anchor or of Rhode Island College’s faculty, administration or student body.
Opinions
Confessions of a serial transfer student
Alexis Rapoza Anchor Staff On the first day of this semester I got an email urging me to apply for graduation. Typically, this is an exciting email for college students their expensive and exhausting undergraduate career is finally coming to an end. However, this is not the case for me, and I am sure several other students on campus. Since graduating from high school five years ago, I have attended three colleges and racked up a total
Photo by University Visitors Network of 115 credits. This is just five credits away from the minimum credits to earn a degree. Even though I have all these credits I still am at least a year and a half away from graduation. But this is not something that I find discouraging. As a serial transfer student, the most important thing you can learn is that college is not linear. According to a study done by Complete College America––an organization that is working to help students finish their degrees––found
that only about 19% of students who attend public colleges finish their degrees on time. This is partially because college students often have to balance homework. Extracurricular activities, a job and a social life. Two of the leading causes of students not graduating on time are transferring and lack of planning and advising. From my experience, these two go hand and hand. The process of transferring schools is extremely confusing and time consum-
ing. Even after my transfer to RIC was complete, I felt like I was left in a state of limbo. I attended my transfer orientation and was sent on my way without a clearer understanding of what my experience as a transfer student was going to be. To my surprise, only 15 of the 75 credits that I transferred in from previous institutions counted for credit towards classes here at RIC, the rest transferred as unnamed electives. Luckily, I knew from my previous
experience that I would have to petition some classes for credit; so I emailed around and completed the petition process. This is an example of what my biggest problem with the transfer process at RIC has been. RIC has several great resources available for students of all majors and academic years; however, as a transfer student, you are not really provided with these resources. I spent hours sending emails, making calls to various departments, and sorting out my financial aid which left me with little time to branch out and find my place on campus. If transfer students are provided with the support they need I believe that campus involvement will soar. I’m in my third semester here at RIC and I feel as if I am finally finding my footing. RIC is a campus that encourages diversity and acceptance, one of the things that I love about it. I believe that current and incoming transfers could benefit from a little more support regardless of how many years’ worth of tuition are being paid to the school.
RIC 100: the best required resource Grace Kimmell Anchor Contributor As the autumn dawns and a new school year begins, our campus is fragranced with the perfume of familiar questions: Where is the Financial Aid Office? How was your summer? What’s your professor like? What kind of job can I get with a liberal arts degree? Should I even bother to buy the book? This year, there are two new additions to these queries: what’s RIC 100 and why are they making me take it? We all know how frustrating it can be to fit in all the classes we need (while staying under 18 credits) to still graduate on time. The idea of taking another one-credit class seems unfathomable, especially when you’re trying to make your schedule as a freshman student. We want
to take the classes we need to take, and that’s it. No dilly-dallying our way through school, wasting more time and money than what we’re already spending. Now, the RIC 100 course (Honors 150, for honors students) has now become mandatory for all incoming freshmen. While many complain about having to fit one more class into their brand new schedule, there are many benefits that come out of these courses that they’re arguably the most vital resource Rhode Island College could potentially give their incoming students. RIC is a heavy commuter school, a reality that can make it difficult to forge meaningful connections right away. However, connections are vital in order to thrive in college. RIC 100 does offer an exclusive smaller community of fresh-
men who are going through the same transition period, making it easier to bond with and make friends right away. It also offers the opportunity to express concerns, questions, and solicit assistance from our peers and peer mentors, all while immersed in a safe space. Moreover, since so many RIC students are first-generation college students, this class offers tours of libraries and services, goes over advising, using MyRIC and other resources the college offers,. Ultimately, this lets them know everything they need to as they are going through their first semester here. This is the kind of “institutional knowledge” that, for others, might be taken for granted. For me and people like me who are the first in our families to go to college, this is an invaluable experience. While the administration might be
making us take this class, we are the ones teaching it and shaping the curriculum. Of course, for some, the primary complaint is that the administration is making freshman take this class. One more required class, one more obstacle on the path to graduation, right? Students with more strict RhodeMaps tend to feel like they are missing out on something else required for their major and being pushed behind. While of course, we all want to make sure we get our classes in, there is a clear necessity for guidance that is addressed in their orientation. It is not an obstacle to the completion of your college experience; it is an opportunity to understand how to grow the most on the voyage to your valediction. When students start and go through college, they are navigating new terrain,
questions, concerns regarding their majors, paths and futures at RIC. RIC 100 courses offer the help and support students need as they’re going through this transitional period, and this helps set freshman up for the rest of their career here at RIC. Our college has given us a precious tool, one that shouldn’t be discounted. I don’t want us to think about this as a course we have to take. Rather, I want us to come to see it as something we are fortunate enough to get to take. This weekend, when you’re asking a slew of new questions, I’d like you to add just one more question to your thoroughly Socratic exploration of college life: RIC 100, why not give it a chance?
The views expressed in The Anchor, unless otherwise noted, are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent those of The Anchor or of Rhode Island College’s faculty, administration or student body.
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Rhode Island College’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1928
Sports Online sports betting live in time for NFL season Joseph A. Griswold Assistant Sports Editor Mobile sports betting has officially gone live in Rhode Island just in time for the start of the NFL season. The announcement was made Wednesday following the live launch of the Rhode Island Mobile Sportsbook app at 3p.m. at the Twin River Casino. According to the R.I. Department of Revenue Spokesperson Paul Grimaldi the app, “[is] a milestone for us,” Grimaldi said. “We promised to get this done by the start of the NFL season and we’ve accomplished that,” Before individuals can
place their bets through the app they must register in person at Twin River Casino in Lincoln with a valid photo ID. Once they are registered, bettors are allowed to place wagers anywhere within the state. Sports betting has been a point of contention in Rhode Island for an extended period of time. However, the addition of mobile betting, along with in-person sports betting is projected to bring in $22.7 million in revenue during the 201920 fiscal year. The state of Rhode Island takes 51% of what gamblers lose and the online wagering is slated to bring in $17 million for the state from the $22.7 million. The revenue is needed after a reported 34% drop in prof-
Graphic Courtesy of Fox its at Twin River Casino. This drop in profits is widely attributed to the opening of new casinos in Massachusetts. Despite the launch, bettors cannot yet register at Twin River’s Tiverton location as registration has been delayed to next week.
Although the app has launched there is still potential for it to be shut down, as there is currently a pending legal challenge against Rhode Island allowing online sports betting. The plaintiffs are arguing that the state’s
constitution requires voter authorization for new forms of casino gambling. Although the case is set to be heard in court at a hearing on September 11, the Rhode Island Lottery does not believe that the mobile wagering will be stopped.
How to break up with Oakland in six months or less Jake Elmslie Sports Editor
Nearly 12 years after falling one headgear-related reception shy of spotless immortality on the back of an all time historic offense, the New England Patriots have yet again fallen into a disgruntled, uber talented wide receiver, entering his 30s who just wrapped up a sojourn with the Oakland Raiders. These are of course the details that link the Patriots arrival of both Canton enshrinee Randy Moss and all-pro social media pariah Antonio Brown. Now only time will tell if Brown’s Patriot career will play out anything like that of Moss’s, but either way Bill Belichick has once again disproven the common misconception that he is unwilling to bring in players who pose the risk of the dreaded “distraction” regardless of talent. Brown represents the extreme end of this scale, over the last several months no player in the NFL has drawn more attention to himself than Brown. Lucky enough for AB, he also happens to be possibly the most talented player at his position in the
Graphic Courtesy of Fox world right now. Thusly, the seven time pro bowler presents the ultimate question of the perceived “Patriot way” vs overwhelming ability. The Raiders and their broadcast crew of a leadership team made the decision that Brown, for all his talent, was not worth the admittedly gigantic pile of nonsense he brought to the forefront over
his almost exactly six month long tenure as a member of the organization. A pile that included, but was not limited to, hot air balloon rides, circumcised feet, helmet sagas, and as of Friday evening wiretapping. Obviously even a sliver of what Jon Gruden and company endured over the past half a year will not fly under the eye of Beli-
chick. With that the sports world at large can now wait and see if AB is ether a mastermind who engineered a multi-layered plan to wind up with a team he knew his original employer, the Pittsburgh Steelers, would never under any circumstances have traded him to, or if he truly is just the functionally insane person his recent ac-
tions have painted him as. Regardless of the true machinations behind Mr. Big Chest’s brain, the Patriots at the least have undoubtedly their most talented wide out since Randy Moss shot his way out of Foxborough in 2010. And most likely just like Randy, Brown is here for a good time not a long time.
Rhode Island College’s Independent Student Newspaper Since 1928 |
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Sports Anchorwomen stop Seahawks from taking flight Jake Elmslie Sports Editor
Pictured top to bottom: Alexandra Amore, Soleil Galagarza, Madyson Christian
The Rhode Island College Women’s Soccer team rode a dominant first half offensive performance to their second straight win, in a 3-1 Saturday afternoon home victory over the Salve Regina University Seahawks. The Anchorwomen generated offense early in the contest with senior midfielder Kat Carrillo scoring her first goal of the season in the games second minute. RIC then proceed to dominate the rest of the half offensively taking 14 shots compared to Salve’s three. Of those 14 shots one turned into a goal by sophomore forward Alyson Morris in the 13th minute. Freshman midfielder Alexandra Amore also chipped in with her second career goal on a pinpoint shot from the corner of the penalty box to put RIC up 3-0 in the game’s 28th minute. The Seahawks, meanwhile, saw their best scoring opportunity of the half squashed due to an offsides penalty in the 33rd minute. The Anchorwomen boots cooled off in the second half and the game took on a more physical bent with the rate of both collisions and trippings increasing. Salve was able generate their lone goal of the day in the 73rd minute off the leg of senior midfielder Breanna Gustin. The Seahawks attempted to launch a late comeback attempt but were stymied by three consecutive offsides penalties between the games 79th and 81st minutes. From there, the Anchorwomen were able to take complete control of the game’s pace and brought the contest to a close, amid a backdrop of frustrated Salve fans’ jeers. With the win, RIC improves to 2-1 on the season and will next be on the road Tuesday, September 17 for a match up against the Wesleyan University Cardinals, kick off for that game is set for 5 p.m. Photos by Mark Medeiros
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