March 2017
Nevertheless, She Persisted
&
The 21-Credit Diet Furman: Fiction vs. Fact Top-Five Little Known Pizzerias
ali mcqueen '18 & claudia levey '19 Editors-in-Chief amanda breen '17 Managing Editor
EVENTS DIRECTOR JUDY LIU '19
FEATURES EDITOR Emma Yee Yick '19 ASSOCIATE EDITOR Nicole blackwood '20
ALUMNAE RELATIONS DIRECTOR DEMME DURRETT '19
POLITICS & OPINION EDITOR Sara Hameed '20
PHOTOSHOOT DIRECTOR judy liu '19
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Allisen Lichtenstein '19
LAYOUT DIRECTOR anna li '19
PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR sharon wu '18
NEW YORK CITY LIVING EDITOR katherine leak '19 ASSOCIATE EDITOR Veronica Suchodolski '19 HEALTH & STYLE EDITOR Briana Draguca '18 ASSOCIATE EDITOR carolina gonzalez '19
Thank you to the ruth bayard smith '72 memorial fund for its support of the bulletin BARNARD BULLETIN 3009 Broadway New York, NY 10027 TheBarnardBulletin..Com LIKE US ON FACEBOOK: FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: Follow us on instagram:
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2 - march 2017
A Letter from the Editors
D
ear Readers,
March is a month of transitions. Spring is in the air, and with changes in the weather come changes in moods, attitudes, and, of course, fashions. But on a more personal level, beyond the cyclical passing of seasons, we invite you this month to think about how you’ve changed since you arrived at Barnard. Friendships came and went; you watched a couple thousand TV episodes on Netflix; you tried fad fashions and fad diets; you became who you are today. We’ve got it covered in the March issue. With updates on everything from the changing political political climate, to the art of the moment, to the newest trends in jeans, this issue is all about evolution and growth. We’re all works in progress, so let’s take this month to enjoy the journey. As always, thanks for reading. Until next month, XOXO, Ali and Claudia
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3 // Letter from the Editors 5 // Behind the Scenes 6 // Trending & Playlist
Health & Style 8 // change up your jeans for spring 9 // spice up your shower 10 // the 21 credit diet
Features 12 // furman: fiction vs. fact 13 // love, actually: a second per swipe 14 // centerpiece: Nevertheless, she persisted 20 // fading friendships 21 // the (bright s)ides of march
Politics & Opinion 22 // bring back boycotting 23 // perverse penalty
Arts & Entertainment 24 // political art 25 // what we're binge watching 26 // gallery galavanting 28 // bandcamp mixtape
New York City Living 29 // bites beyond the bubble 30 // top 5 little known pizzerias 31 // jumpstart your workout
ehind he cenes Model malika senoj Photography: sharon wu Art Direction: judy liu
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Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder
absorbs oil and locks in makeup with a soft, matte finish.
MAC Lip Duos lip stick and liner kits in cult favorite shades
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Givenchy Mister Lash Booster This serum revitalizes and densifies your eyelashes.
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H&S
Change Up Your Jeans for Spring
eans. What would we do without them? They are the main staple in practically every girl’s wardrobe, but for the past few years, we haven’t radically switched the trends we are wearing. As the reign of skinny jeans comes to an end, this spring brings a variety of unique denim with the warm weather. If you want to take a risk but you’re inexperienced in the realm of fashion, the following styles, all of which have been recently worn by street-style stars in New York City, are a good place to start.
Rigid Jeans
Rigid jeans are a compromise between skinny and wide-leg jeans. If you wear these jeans, you get both a refreshing change in style from your boring skinny jeggings and a pant leg skinny enough that it won’t engulf your legs. Even better, rigid jeans are structured, so they will flatter every figure.
Cuffed Jeans
Cuffed jeans are trendy right now because they give off that laid-back, coolgirl vibe. It doesn’t matter whether you are as tall as a model; cuffed jeans are made to be the perfect length for every height. They also look good with any type of shoe, from heels to Adidas. The best thing about cuffed jeans, though, is that you don’t necessarily have to buy a pair: you can simply roll up the bottom of your favorite pair of jeans once or twice and be good to go!
Jeans Ripped at the Knee or Mid Thigh
Right now, ripped jeans are all the rage with celebrities and the average urban girl alike, so why not try a pair? These aren’t your typical ripped-up jeans that you begged your mom to buy when you were starting high school. Instead, these jeans feature a subtle slit at the knee, bringing back the ’90s vibes.These jeans can be dressed up with a nice top and heels or dressed down with sneakers and a t-shirt. Either way, you will look edgy and right on trend.
Wide Leg Jeans
After several years of practically every fashion magazine predicting the return of wide-leg jeans, it has finally happened.You can’t go anywhere in New York these days without seeing at least a few people wearing them. Wide-leg jeans are radically different from skinny jeans, and who doesn’t want to channel their inner ’70s girl and give their legs some room to breathe?
Patchwork Denim Jeans
Patchwork denim is the new obsession of every urban cool girl. long with wide-leg jeans, they are a throwback to the 1970s, and people are quickly embracing this new trend. The patchwork can be placed anywhere on the jeans; the knees and thighs are popular places to start. If you want to look like a fashion trendsetter, patchwork denim jeans are your best bet. THE BULLETIN -
8 - march 2017
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J
by Beth Abbott
SPICE U
P YOU R SHO WER
by H anna h We lles
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e all know that college can be grueling, and after what seems like a never-ending struggle through classes, meetings, and homework, all we want to do when we get back to our dorms is soak away our worries in a relaxing bath. Unfortunately, dorm bathtubs can be compared to a petri dish of our fellow residents’ filth, so we are left to try to rinse away the day’s worries in the shower. While showers may not seem as soothing as a long bath, with the right embellishments, you can easily turn your dorm shower into a relaxing oasis in the middle of your suite or hall. First, and perhaps most importantly, I recommend using a portable speaker that you can leave outside the shower to play some relaxing or energizing music, depending on your mood. Spend some time creating a few different playlists that will cater to your emotional needs after a tough day and either prepare you for what is left of it or help you ease into your nighttime routine. Bath prod-
ucts are another great way to add a little more excitement to your shower. Find a shampoo/conditioner combo that smells as amazing as it makes your hair look and feel. Products made by Lush can be reasonably priced (most of their products are under ten dollars) and have glorious scents as well as interesting feelings on your skin. For example, their shower jellies are a body wash in a solid, gelatinous form. They are definitely a lot more fun to use than regular soap or body wash. Additionally, all of Lush’s products are vegetarian and handmade, and to make you feel even better, a portion of the profit goes to charities that support refugees, the environment, and other worthy causes. If you have a somewhat private bathroom, you can get a shower mat to provide some cushion for your feet. It will also spruce up the aesthetic of your shower and make your bathroom look a little less drab. There are several mats available on Amazon for under fifteen dollars, and they come in a variety of colors THE BULLETIN -
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and textures to suit your liking. Another luxury item to add to your routine is an exfoliating cloth loofah. These come in the form of either a pad with a slot for your hand so that it becomes a glove, or as a three foot long band that helps you easily get your back, shoulders, neck, and other hard-to-reach areas. If you are really looking to go all out and totally transform your shower experience, you can invest about forty dollars in a color-changing light bulb to put in a lamp in your bathroom. This way you not only save yourself from the brutal fluorescent lights, but also create a relaxing lightscape that will add to the luxury of your shower. And once your shower is complete, the last thing you want is to have to rush back to your room in a rough towel, so make sure you find a cozy, plush bathrobe that will make the transition out of the shower a bit less terrible. Happy showering!
The 21 Credit Diet by Arianne Siegel
T
aking 21 credits - if your advisor will even approve that - can wreck serious havoc on your sleep schedule, social life, and not to mention your diet. If you’re busy writing those seven page papers due next week, cooking elaborate, Insta-worthy meals is not even remotely feasible. But, BB has got you covered. Here are some quick and easy meals you can realistically make.
Breakfast Overnight oats
While this might be a little plain-sounding, it’s super simple and you can spice up your oatmeal by adding various toppings like chia seeds, cinnamon, frozen blueberries, almond butter, or coconut sugar. Directions Mix ½ cup rolled oats with 1 cup of water or almond milk in a mason jar, add your desired toppings, and then put it in the fridge.
Two ingredient breakfast cookies
These are quick to make and pair perfectly with jam.They’ll satisfy that sweet tooth while giving you some protein. Plus, if you make a big batch of these on Sunday, you can freeze some so that they’ll last for months. Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees 2. Combine 2 large, ripe bananas with 2 cups of oats (either by hand in a bowl or using a blender) 3. Bake for 9-12 minutes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper
Lunch Rainbow mason jar salad
Mason jars are so useful for meal prepping and eating on the go because they keep food entirely sealed and fresh. Directions Fill the bottom of your masjon jar with any type of desire dressing (keep the dressing on the bottom so that your salad doesn’t get soggy while it sits in the fridge).Add chopped lettuce, spinach, or kale. Next add veggies like cucumber, peppers, olives, carrot strips, and finally finish by adding protein like tofu cubes, grilled chicken or cheese. THE BULLETIN -
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Dinner Microwave tortilla pizza
Yes, Koronet’s may be acceptable to eat late night on Saturday night, but pizza on school nights can get pretty unhealthy and leave you feeling greasy and gross. Instead, opt for this quick and healthier version. The time it takes to make this is the same amount of time it will take you to walk to Famiglias! Directions Top a tortilla with tomato sauce, adding cheese strips and microwaving for a minute. Top with basil and cut into wedges.
Mac & Cheese in a mug
You’re never too old for Mac & Cheese but honestly who has time to wait for the water to boil? While this might not taste as good as Annie’s, it’s super quick and will fill you up fast. Directions 1. Add ½ cup elbow noodles to the bottom of your mug. 2. Add ½ cup water 3. Microwave until the water has evaporated 4. Add ¼ cup milk of your choice and a handful of shredded cheese 5. Stir and microwave for a minute
Photography by Sharon Wu THE BULLETIN -
11 - march 2017
features
Furman Fiction vs. Fact
E
ach year, one-third of Barnard students visit Furman Counseling Center. But many others struggle alone, reluctant to reach out for help or unsure where to find it. Recent suicides within the Columbia community have reinforced the need for strong support systems, and for increased student awareness of the resources that are available to them on campus. Mary Commerford, Director of Furman Counseling Center, sat down with the Bulletin to address some common misconceptions about counseling at Barnard. Myth: There’s a cap on the number of sessions a student can attend at Furman. Truth: Furman offers short-term counseling – about six sessions on average. Counselors work with a tight focus to address the issues that brought you in, and if you need long-term support, they help you find it off-campus. What this doesn’t mean is that there’s a magic number of sessions that each student gets. “We will always see anybody in a crisis,” emphasizes Dr. Commerford. “We’re always available for that.” Myth: I can’t afford therapy. Truth: If you and your counselor decide that you need longer-term care, Furman will help you find it. Dr. Commerford says, “We have a full range of fee options and we really try to match the financial need of the student with a referral so that it’s affordable for them.” And, of course, counseling at Furman is completely free. Myth: If I use Barnard’s counseling services, my counseling record can be accessed by faculty or staff outside of Furman.
by Haley George Truth: Furman Counseling Center makes confidentiality a priority and your counseling records are never part of your academic or college records. “Our waiting room is all frosted glass, and we ask administrators to not ever go in the waiting room,” says Dr. Commerford. “We really protect the space.”
Tips for Handling Stress As college students we often cope with stress by staying busy and ignoring it, which means that the quiet of nights and weekends is often when the stress comes back to overwhelm us, explains Dr. Commerford. She offers some strategies that counselors teach to help change your body chemistry and calm your mind.
Myth: All counseling groups are open to drop-ins. Truth: There are some groups that welcome drop-ins, like the Woman of Color Support Group. However, most groups require that you do an intake session to assess whether the group is the best option for you. At that point, says Dr. Commerford, “If the group leader thinks they’d be good for the group and they want to be in the group, they can be in the group.” You’re asked to commit to at least eight sessions in order to foster trust and confidentiality within the group.
If you’re in full-on panic mode: When we’re in distress, our body chemistry goes into fight or flight mode – “but if the stress isn’t something to flee, that’s not helpful,” says Dr. Commerford. We can change our body chemistry by taking advantage of another reflex: the mammalian diving reflex. When mammals dive into cold water, heartrate and blood pressure immediately drop. You can cause this reaction by taking a cold shower or even splashing cold water on your face – it will calm that fight or flight response.
Myth: It’s hard to get an appointment at Furman. Truth: To make an appointment with a counselor, all you have to do is call (212) 854-2092 or visit the office at 100 Hewitt. You’ll have a quick phone interview, usually about 10 minutes, so that the Counseling Center can assess the symptoms you’re experiencing and your level of risk. You’ll then be paired with the counselor best suited to help. Dr. Commerford notes that midterm and finals seasons can be extra busy, but usually students are seen within a week of making the call. Those with riskier symptoms are always seen earlier. --THE BULLETIN -
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If you need to study but you’re too stressed to focus: Do something else. Easier said than done when you have an exam tomorrow, but in these situations our body chemistry prevents us from focusing on the task at hand. Distracting the mind by watching a movie or listening to music allows the body to calm down. If you’re moderate to mildly stressed: Find what soothes you. “When you soothe, you want to use as many of your senses as possible,” says Dr. Commerford. Think tea and a blanket or a warm shower with lavender shampoo. If someone’s safety is at risk, call the emergency helpline at (855) 622-1903.
Love Actually
by Carolina Gonzalez
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e should have known it was only a matter of time before the curation of our public image would seep into our love lives. I mean, if we were telling our friends how cool we were by posting that Instagram of us at the Museum of Ice Cream, wouldn’t we want our potential lovers to buy into that image of us, too? Now, with apps like Bumble and Tinder, we get to flip through profiles and giggle at witty bios instead of eyeing that cutie in Spanish class. It almost seems to be some blessing in disguise, a time when technology can finally be held on a high pedestal. Yet while we can avoid our crush seeing us in sweatpants and instead have them see those selfies we took at the right angle, there’s something empty about it all. For me, Tinder became a getaway
A Second Per Swipe from the body that I lived in day to day. I would create the best version of myself, a version that strayed away from the core of my being. It was all in vain, all done only in order to attract those on Tinder that I would superficially want to be with. Being on Tinder and getting so many matches was an affirmation of the curated persona that I had created. I tried my best at being that girl who was smart and witty, but way too nice and flirty. I pushed myself to go on dates and be in relationships because maybe, just maybe, I would be able to find the real “me” that I was looking for. Maybe by putting on different personas, I would find the right fit. And as I thoughtfully and painstakingly curated the best version of myself, I thought that maybe that was the only way to find a connection with someone, albeit superficial. I didn’t have to
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walk up to anyone and face the reality of rejection. I knew automatically that there was a mutual on-the-surface attraction, and that satisfied me enough. There are successful relationships that have their origin story on the app, but they seem to be of the rare Cinderella variety. Even though I hoped to find my own Tinderella, there are only so many not-so-great Hungarian Pastry Shop dates a girl can take. I felt as though there had to be a limit on the amount of small talk and “what’s your major?” questions before the conversation dwindled into awkward glances. After deleting the app a couple of weeks ago, I felt free -- free from the person I created, and free from the people that only took a second to swipe.
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She was warned. She was given an explanation.
Nevertheless
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ith that, Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell attempted to silence Senator Elizabeth Warren on the floor of the Senate. Senator Warren had come to read the words of Coretta Scott King, who wrote about the threat of Jeff Sessions’ racism. Senator Warren continued the speech outside of the Senate chamber, and King’s words were read several times by male senators during that confirmation hearing. Yet, Senator Warren was targeted as the threat to the proceedings. Jeff Sessions was confirmed as Attorney General, and for a moment it seemed as though Senator Warren had been silenced. But there was a reason she was so dangerous: she invoked the radical revolutionary spirit that has been a trademark of American feminism. For all of the systemic racism, sexism, and xenophobia that laid the groundwork of American history, there have been women fighting back. We are the greatest threat to the men in power, and Warren’s silencing only helped to reinvigorate those who felt we already lost the fight. Popular rhetoric and the men in power would have you believe that disobedience is inherently bad and counterproductive to our democracy. They are wrong. As American feminists, it’s written in our history, and more important today than ever before.
by Juliana Kaplan Model | Malika Senoj Photography | Sharon Wu Art Direction | Judy Liu
On December 1, 1955, she persisted. Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus to a white passenger. Many accounts of Parks’ action paint her as a woman simply fed up with the segregation she lived under, but that discounts the incredible work she did. Parks took that bus with the intention to be arrested. She knew she would be warned. She knew she would be
given an explanation. And when she persisted, she became a linchpin of the Civil Rights Movement. Her civil disobedience changed the world, and Parks spent the rest of her life resisting. Her fight is far from over. To honor Parks and to continue her fight is to persist. On June 28, 1969, she persisted. It was a summer night at the Stonewall Inn when police attempted to raid the gay
club. This was not the first raid, but clubgoers had had enough. Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera were warned that their existence as trans women was deemed invalid by the police.They were given an explanation. But when the police came for their raid, they persisted, fighting back. They threw the first bottles and fists, and they sparked a movement. This moment of rioting and reclamation, of the declaration that LGBT people not only existed, but were allowed to love, to live, and to thrive, was essential to the movement for LGBT rights. These trans women of color are often whitewashed and removed from the narrative, but their contributions and radical activism have completely changed how America perceives LGBT people. Without their persistence, we would certainly not be at the level of mainstream recognition and support that we are at today. Their fight is still ongoing, and we must persist in their memory.
On April 1, 2016, she persisted. The women of Standing Rock began a movement that is reshaping the common conception of America and combatting a despicable history of colonialism and environmental racism. The United States has anti-indigenous sentiment written, or, more accurately, not written into its foundation: since the signing of the Constitution, the United States has constantly worked to undermine Native authority and tradition. It has constantly refused to recognize Native land and governance, and has constantly proven willing to dislocate Native Americans as it pleases. Policies of assimilation and destruction have always been met with protest, but many have been pushed through with force. When a pipeline originally set to snake through White areas of North Dakota was relocated to Standing Rock Sioux land because of health concerns, the women of Standing Rock cried environmental racism and began this most recent movement. They were given an explanation from the Army Corps of Engineers. They were warned. And they continue to persist.
This is all to say that America is built on women persisting. All of the things we love and treasure about this deeply flawed country have their roots in the persistence of women who were warned and given an explanation. Today, our role is not to ponder whether or not persistence is the right course, but instead to figure out where and when we need to be persisting. Not every action can be as big and widespread as Senator Warren’s persistence. However, a movement does not begin and end with one big action. Senator Warren has given us a challenge, and it’s time for us to act. Unfortunately, there is plenty to persist against today. But just remember: many people will step in to give you a warning. They will probably give you an explanation. I think you can take it from there.
Fading
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hen high school ends, most friend groups disperse all over the country (and sometimes even further). While there may be promises of staying in touch, chances are, as time wears on, the long conversations will gradually trickle away. You have all established new lives and there are so many changes going on; it is hard to keep up. Some people simply grow apart - it is natural. Unfortunately, sometimes even friends you make in college can feel like long-distance friends! When you don’t live near a friend (the long distance relationship between 620 and Cathedral Gardens is too real) or schedules collide, it can feel like you never talk or see your friend. This can cause trouble between friends. Long distance friendships, and some friendships in general, can be a bit like a rubber band. Sometimes you will be really close, but other times you will stretch to get distance and have your own space. Here are some tips to staying in touch with long-distance friends,
whether at different colleges or at school with you: Acknowledge time differences and try to find times to sit down and talk that work for both of you! While there is always Skype, FaceTime, Whatsapp, and text, Facebook messenger is also great.You don’t have to respond in real time if that is too difficult! Understand that people change and don’t get offended if a friend has trouble connecting with the new you or vice versa. If it is worth it, try to continue working on it. If not, gradually let the friendship go. Establish a certain date and time that will always work for the two of you so you can set up a video chat face to face! If it is a friend at school, make a lunch or dinner date! Every week or every other week, decide to go to the dining hall together or cook together and talk with each other. Try to make plans to see each other in person, over breaks or over the weekend, if it is a friend
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at school. Don’t be afraid to initiate contact! Some people are bad at initiating a conversation or are forgetful. Be patient and be willing to take the first step. Accept that there will be times when you two are in regular contact but then there will be some weeks or months where you just drop off each other’s radar. Let them have their chance to flourish and blossom where they are! Talk to friends in different settings. Some friends will match up with you in one way but there will be a complete disconnect in another! Cater to your strengths. Don’t be afraid to let some friends go. Sometimes people move forward with life and unfortunately you will not be with them. Be happy for the time you had together. Maybe life will bring you two back together sometime in the future.
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Bright S(Ides of March) (
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BRIGHT S IDES OF MARCH)
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Illustration by Letty DiLeo
e’re in New York City, baby, and you’re an uninhibited twenty-something who’s had it up to their undercut with tire-tinted snowbanks, Burt’s Bees, and coyote fur in your coffee. Winters back home were so much more tolerable and let’s face it: nobody looks good in green. Also that time you got assassinated by your friend Brutus and a bunch of senators really sucked. Now all anybody remembers you for is your salad dressing. Thankfully, time is just a concept, and “March” is just a thing that white women do to absolve themselves of guilt. So let’s put on our transinclusive-thinkinghats and look on the bright side! If you’re reading this it means you’re not that crusty jerk Caesar who everyone hated. There are tons of awesome things you can do this month that are a lot more fun and rewarding than dying and inadvertently triggering the collapse of the Roman Republic. If you’re an East Coast native then the lingering cold should not come as a surprise to you. Congratulations! You have an advantage. Harness the bitterness that has been manifesting within you for years and use it to fuel an expedition downtown. All those wimpy West Coasters are home hiding with their Seamless’d acai bowls and their “medical” marijuana. Now’s your chance to get the hell out
by Caroline Strauss
of MoHi! Fight a manspreader on the Btrain! Actually learn how to use the M79! The world is your oyster… Unless you’re vegan. In that case, perhaps check out the fish-free carrot “lox” at Orchard Grocer on the LES between Broome and Grand St. While you’re down there you might as well make the fifteen minute walk (or grab a taxi-
- have you deleted your Uber account?) to Confectionery, a dazzling vegan dessert shop and chocolatier promoting a radical feminist agenda at 440 East 9th St. Not really a foodie? March is the perfect time to get in touch with your sexual side. It is still “cuffing season” after all. By now all those picture-perfectChristmas-couples have imploded in a plume of strawberry E-juice and fairy lights. There’s no better time to make your move. Swipe right and show the cutie from your Econ lecture that you totally THE BULLETIN -
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know your way around Cubbyhole, located at 281 West 12th St. Or are you crushing on that guy with the Warby Parkers in your History recitation? Impress him with your thirst for… academia: the Stonewall Inn is steeped in antiquity and $4 beers on Sundays (53 Christopher St). There’s even a place for all you timid lovers out there: Eve’s Garden (119 West 57th St) is hidden on the upper level of an unassuming office building. The self-proclaimed “sexuality boutique” is a great place to spend all that money you made Barnard Bartending. Stop by here and you’ll undoubtedly leave with something to keep you entertained all March long. If none of this appeals to you, there’s always the tried and true strategy of watching television until your face melts off. Right now I’m enjoying It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia (eleven seasons on Netflix!) and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (don’t knock it ‘til you try it). You can’t lament the pathetic state of the world we live in if you’re too busy clicking “Next Episode!” But really, March isn’t so bad. It’s hardly the “cruellest” month (T.S. Eliot said that comes next). Just enjoy your Shamrock Shakes and be grateful that Spring is not so far away.
P&O
Bringing Back Boycotting rhetoric, such as those in this year’s Super Bowl ads, reflect the genuine views of corporations, or if these were merely ploys to appeal to more consumers and secure more profit. Moreover, unlike several past movements, current boycotts often appear much more nebulous. Consumers act to register their displeasure at a company, but they often do not verbalize what they would like their boycott to accomplish. In the case of Starbucks, were boycotters working to silence CEO Schultz by forcing a change in leadership, or were they asking for reform of this new policy? Either way, Starbucks still retains large profits. This is not suffice to say that boycotts have run outdated. Several large department stores, such as Nordstrom, have stopped carrying Ivanka Trump’s fashion line due to decreased sales, ultimately allowing a boycott to aid in conforming a business to change policy or views. In a way, boycotts work as an ironic protest mechanism for those in opposition to the current President, who cites his shrewdness in business as a primary qualification for office. However, after the news broke of Nordstrom’s dropped line, opposition boycotting occurred from those who supported the cur-
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rent President or his daughter. Debate arose early this year about whether or not a business should ever opt to play their hand in politics after a mass movement convinced a population of the public to delete their Uber apps after Uber drivers gave rides from the JFK airport in the midst of hysteria over the refugee ban. The issue ultimately considers whether or not a company automatically make a statement by choosing not to make one. We have also seen the United States become a new target of the boycott movement, as Mexican residents boycott United States goods to protest the proposed taxed wall and questions arise as to whether most boycotts these days can truly be connected to a desired policy change. Will decreasing American goods sales in Mexico truly impact government policy or will the cries of upset protesters go unheard, once again? In an age where few businesses are entirely in line with our own ideologies, it’s important to remember that if one boycotts everything, they gain nothing, but also that the best method toward effective change begins with taking any kind of action - no matter how big or small.
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here did boycotting come from? Collective withdrawal of financial support led to the integration of the bus system in Alabama in the 1960s and improved working conditions for grape-picking farm workers in the 1980s. Total boycotting of white owned businesses was used in the 20th century to help end South African Apartheid. Today, boycotting has sought to oppose controversial positions of businesses, and even nations, with an inestimable success rate. In the past month, the #BoycottStarbucks hashtag cropped up on social media after the Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz announced that the company would aim to hire 10,000 refugees within a five year range in response to President Trump’s executive order on refugees. However, sales for Starbucks in the following weeks did not plummet. In fact, a company as large as Starbucks was able to make headlines with a political statement that brought out activists on both sides of the issue. Many consumers even claimed that the CEO’s statement made them more likely to buy from this large chain. Based on events like this, one might question whether business’ attempts to use political
by Sara Hameed
Perverse Penalty P Disclaimer: The Bulletin does not own any images on this page
ennsylvania was the first state to move executions out of public venues and into correctional facilities in 1834, as an attempt to placate death penalty abolitionists, and turn what had become a spectacle back into a serious carrying out of justice. But the removal of executions themselves from the public stage did not affect public opinion. To this day, the topics of the legality and ethicality of the death penalty are up for constant debate. With new studies being published almost annually reporting on the discriminatory patterns of our justice system, the death penalty is, now more than ever, under investigation. T h e truth is that our prison system is flawed. Statistics do not lie, and it has been proven time and again that racial biases constantly influence the hypothetically fair and impartial conviction and sentencing of defendants. With regards to capital punishment specifically, the statistics on the role of race in the courtroom are astounding. A recent study done in Washington state confirmed that jurors are four and a half times more likely to impose the death penalty on Black defendants, compared to defendants of other races convicted of comparable crimes. The race of the victim is relevant in sentencing too: while in the US overall only about 50% of
by Claudia Levey murder victims are White, 76% of death row inmates were sentenced to death for killing a White victim. This shows that prosecutors are far more likely to seek the death penalty if the victim is White-- possibly because only 5% of elected prosecutors in the US are non-White. In addition to the racial biases behind the death penalty, the question remains: is the death penalty ethical? Justices like Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Stephen
Breyer, and Sonia Sotomayor have all brought up valid arguments claiming that the death penalty violates the Eighth Constitutional Amendment against cruel and unusual punishment. Just this month, Sonia Sotomayor wrote an 18-page reaction to an instance where an Alabama death row inmate protested the state’s lethal injection method. The Supreme Court declined to hear the prisoner’s case, allowing Alabama to move forward with his execution, proceedings for which had been halted seven times prior to his last THE BULLETIN -
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objection. The drug used in executions in Alabama, Midazolam, is the subject of great controversy, many claiming that its administration is extremely painful and often ineffective, and thus inhumane. In her reaction piece, Sotomayor presses that if we are going to continue using the death penalty, there is a need for updated laws and a reform of our country’s capital punishment proceedings in order to ensure a minimization of the prisoners’ suffering. She explains that as times change, so should our laws, writing that “States develop a method of execution, which is generally accepted for a time. Science then reveals that… the States’ chosen method of execution causes unconstitutional levels of suffering. A new method of execution is devised, and the dialogue continues. The Eighth Amendment requires this conversation.” We are past the times of burning witches, and of hanging thieves in the town square. But how far have we really come? Is there such a thing as an ethical execution? Will there be a day when we can eliminate the death penalty completely? These questions require far more time and space to be answered. For now, though, the facts don’t lie: it is time for a change.
n the wake of the election and inauguration of Donald Trump as the President of the United States, there has been an exceptional amount of political art created as acts of protest. These works have demonstrated the public’s resistance to Trump and his cabinet, who despite having shown themselves to be racist, sexist, transphobic, and incompetent, will lead America for the next few foreseeable years. At the press preview of Kerry James Marshall’s Mastry (2016) exhibition at the Met Breuer, Marshall stated that that “if the people at the bottom show up, their presence is political.”As Marshall said, even the presence of marginalized people in works of art embeds them with a certain political essence. The following works—created both before and after the inauguration—present different concerns about Donald Trump’s position as president and vary in their pertinence to the election. In each of these cases, the visible defiance that these works offer exhibit how personal politics have become.
Shia LaBeouf
Beginning on January 20, 2017, Inaugruation Day, Shia LeBeouf—in collaboration with Nastja Säde Rönkkö and Luke Turner as the artist trio LeBeouf, Rönkkö & Turner—fronted a performance piece titled HEWILLNOTDIVIDEUS at New York’s Museum of the Moving Image. The public was invited to stand in front of a camera and repeat the phase “HE WILL NOT DIVIDE US” as many times and for however long as they desired. The footage was livestreamed 24/7 and was intended to be a direct show of “resistance or insistence, opposition or optimism.” The project was abandoned by the Museum of the Moving Image on February 10th after LeBeouf expressed concerns about the museum’s portrayal of the piece as a political rally rather than as a communal performance
artwork--the distinction being that the art was not intended to portray a singular moment, but rather a highly varied compilation of ongoing moments. LeBeouf also criticized the museum’s lack of participation in attempting to intervene with the hate speech that was occurring at the site from Donald Trump supporters and white supremacists. The trio’s intention was to showcase the various communities who wanted to voice the perseverance that they would maintain while facing detrimental policy changes. The piece was later relocated to a wall outside the El Rey Theater, Albuquerque on February 18th. On February 23rd, LeBeouf tweeted that the livestream would be taken down due to safety concerns once gunshots were reported in the area.
Hamida Khatri
Hamida Khatri is a Pakistani artist, art educator, and creative arts therapist working in a variety of mediums—including sculptures and drawings—who creates works pertinent to the feminist ideals that are enclosed by patriarchal societies. Her work attempts to serve as an outlet for Pakistani and Muslim women whose internal struggles are generally not allowed to be rendered visible. Her drawings often depict women cutting of their own breasts and creatures overwhelming the female body. After Trump’s executive order to implement an immigration ban, we see how fear has become a divisive tactic employed by the current pres ident and Khatri works to dispel negative images of those with mar ginalized identities. While she has not published any works online that are in direct response THE BULLETIN -
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to Trump’s inauguration, her recent pieces are still pertinent to current events. A drawing titled When All Else Fails (2014) depicts a woman with three legs and six arms--portraying the various poses she can hold--seated on a bed of tentacles whilst stabbing herself in the left breast. The work exhibits the plurality of woman while also showing how societal influences affect her strong mentality.
Hannah Black
On January 19, 2017, artist and author Hannah Black uploaded a video to Vimeo titled Inauguration Weak. The video opens with a view of the earth from space as Justin Bieber’s “Sorry” plays.When the verses start, the video shifts to a still image of Trump backdropped against the American flag. Black alters the image so that a video of a mouth is superimposed over Trump’s, but it does not match the word of the song. Instead, what we see is Donald Trump essentially speaking gibberish even as his lines are constructed for him. Throughout his presidential campaign, we have seen Trump’s knack for spewing out insults to various groups unapologetically. Trump’s ideas are incomprehensible, thoughtless, and divisive even when they are not direct attacks. Black’s video wonderfully encapsulates Donald Trump’s ineptness and how it will create lasting effects not only in the United States, but also around the globe. The visual elements of political art make it special. There are articles, talks, and demonstrations that have occurred in direct response to Donald Trump’s inauguration Political art has the capacity to take the theories, pain, and endurance that are being exhibited in the aftermath of what can be called a tragedy and make them tangible and visible.
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Political Art I
by Nectar Knuckles
What We’re Binge Watching
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I
know what you must be thinking—the show has been on the air for 12 years, do I really think that now is the time to binge watch it? But hear me out: this is a call to watch this incredible drama for more than its entertainment value (though it is considerable). This is a call to watch Grey’s Anatomy because it’s the show that we all need right now. For those of us living under a rock for the past decade, a quick summary: the series follows the private and professional lives of a group of surgeons in a hospital in Seattle. It starts with a group of interns and their bosses. One of the interns is Meredith Grey, the show’s namesake, who has a fraught relationship with her venerated surgeon of a mother and struggles to come out from under her shadow, professionally and personally. Not-so-spoiler alert—most of the original cast has departed over the years, but the show has managed to retain a feeling of kinship and continuity. Now, why is it that I think this show is so fitting to watch right now? First of all, it has twelve seasons on Netflix al-
by Hadar Tanne ready! I don’t know about you, but one of the biggest let-downs of my life was starting a show and finding out that it only had one season so far, and that I would have to wait months until the new season. This is definitely not the case with with Grey’s Anatomy. You can quietly binge a season in a week and still rest assured that you have plenty left to watch. Second, it is never boring—the twists and turns never end, and you will be on the edge of your seat (metaphorically, if you’re watching in bed) pretty much every single episode. I’m advocating for this show because it’s doing what pretty much no other show has ever managed to do: unite a diverse cast with a plot that, if we’re honest, is pretty much a celebration of the badassery, wisdom, strength, and heart of incredible women. You’d think that network executives would learn from the stunning success of this show and realize that audiences truly show up for characters of all ethnicities and sexualities when they’re well-rounded and well-written. But this show remains unique. And while the Grey’s guys are pretty dreamy, pretty THE BULLETIN -
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romantic, and pretty great all around, it’s really the women that we’re inspired by. They’re competitive, sassy, stand up for themselves. They claim credit where it’s due and break through glass ceilings. They also make mistakes and even act horribly at times; but, they’re also kind beyond measure, compassionate, caring. Standing by their friends—their family— through thick and thin, these women attain incredible achievements and make no apologies for who they are. Grey’s Anatomy shows the extremes of being human, and it doesn’t spare us heartache and breakdowns. It also shows us that after screaming to the heavens, as these women mend their broken hearts, wipe away their tears, and keep going. I rewatch Grey’s Anatomy not just because I’ve grown attached to these characters and enjoy seeing them on the screen, but because each and every episode serves as a reminder that life can be difficult. In fact, it can hurt a lot, but it wouldn’t be worthwhile otherwise. It keeps me remembering Christina Yang’s credo: “Have some fire. Be unstoppable. Be a force of nature.”
Gallery Galavanting marisa merz: the sky is a great space by Pavi Chance THE BULLETIN -
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T Photography by Pavi Chance
he Met Breuer’s Marisa Merz: The Sky Is a Great Space is the Italian artist’s first major U.S. retrospective, spanning fifty years of her work. Menz was a central figure in Arte Povera, a movement by Italian artists in the 1960s and 1970s which eschewed Italy’s national wealth by utilizing everyday materials. An artist who rejects both the notions of titling and dating her pieces, she often re-appropriates pieces of her earlier works into her later ones. This sentiment is reflected in the layout of the exhibition itself, which presents the visitor with no clear path through the rooms. The exhibition begins at the start
of Merz’s career in the 1960s, with several pieces referred to as “Untitled (Living Sculpture).” Perhaps the most physicallyimposing of her works, these jumbled aluminum structures loom over the visitor, sharply juxtaposed against the stark white walls and ceiling. Some evoke images of overhead pipes and insulation in a basement, while others, streaked with brightly-colored paint, bring to mind old soda cans or street graffiti.Yet all possess a soft, organic quality that transcends their medium while being reminiscent of the everyday objects. Other regions of the exhibition contain works from different periods in Merz’s artistic career, as she expanded her artistic repertoire, delving into artistic forms ranging from sketching, sculpture, and even small functioning fountains. One room is occupied by richlycolored paintings and sculptures, their deep blues, bright reds, and shimmering golds--a nod to the oil paintings of Renaissance-era Italian artists. Notably, Menz was the Arte Pobreza movement’s sole female member, and the prevalence of both women and textiles (a traditionTHE BULLETIN -
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ally-feminine art form) in her art suggests that gender strongly influenced her creatively. Women are the primary subjects of the elegant, ephemeral, graphite sketches scattered in small clusters throughout the rooms. Many of her larger paintings portray women subjects as well, where they are often depicted with darker brushstrokes and vivid colors, yet retain the soft grace found in the sketches. The delicate manner in which Menz depicts women in her paintings and sketches is contrasted by the style of her figures of human heads, sculptured from materials like wax or unfired clay. These heads, which possess an unfinished, crude quality , are equally compelling. As an artist of the Arte Pobreza movement, Menz makes use of a variety of unconventional materials, including aluminum, wax paper, and clay, blurring the line between everyday life and art. Menz’s use of copper wire is especially masterful and versatile. Sometimes, it appears in sharp, taut lines; in one painting, lengths of wire are stretched to form the strings of an instrument played by a painted figure. At other times, wire takes on the appearance of textiles, painstakingly twisted into small loops to form curtainlike sheets, quilt-like squares, and even shoes, all of which appear as soft and delicate as though they are knitted from yarn or woven from thread. By arranging the exhibition as a collection of loosely-structured which allows the visitor to wander easily from room to room, Marisa Merz: The Sky Is a Great Space succeeds in paying homage the artistic unconventionality of a groundbreaking artist.
Digging Into the Underground: A Bandcamp Mixtape
Hum - Eerie Wanda
(Indie Rock) Filled with surf-rock inspired guitar and the dreamy voice of Dutch singer Marina Tadic, Hum is the kind of chill album that makes the perfect soundtrack to a relaxing Sunday. Each minimalist, indie-rock melody is equal parts catchy and melancholic. Just like the name of this album, you may find yourself humming along to this ethereal masterpiece. Favorite Tracks: Happy Hard Times, Angel Hair,Vinny (Electronic) broken open - happy hard times, angel hair, vinny David Block, also known as The Human Experience, has used this incredibly layered album as a canvas to illustrate the most complex human emotions. From the jazz-saturated Traveling Blues to the electronic re-working of The Police’s Walking on the Moon, each song is like an introspective journey through sound. Fans of the darkly sensual music of Glass Animals and XXYXX will fall over for this hypnotic, expansive voyage in and out of joy, despair, and love. Favorite Tracks: Broken Open,Walking on the Moon (The Police), Fallin’ (Alicia Keys)
update your brain - the tuts
(Punk Rock) If you’re tired of “What’s on the Radio” and of what’s going on in the world, then this outspoken punk album is just for you. The all-female trio that is The Tuts tackle issues of sexism and inclusivity through their edgy, feminist, Riot-GRRRL inspired tunes. Unforgettable tongue-and-cheek lyrics, shredding electric guitar, and killer harmonies form this unapologetically loud (in both its message and volume) record. Favorite Tracks:Tut Tut Tut, DumpYour Boyfriend,What’s on the Radio? (Rap) stories from the brass section - anti-lilly & phoniks Houston-based rapper Anti-Lilly spits his fresh rhymes onto a backdrop of classic jazz for a truly unique mix of genres. Each musical arrangement is impeccably done as Anti-Lilly lays down his experiences as a rising rapper on his tracks. He asserts that he does not want to be “compared” to anyone else in his song Respiration, yet this album will definitely take you back to laid-back 90s Hip-Hop while adding a modern flair. Favorite Tracks: Blue In Green, Blue Dream, Everyman
earthee - theesatisfaction
(Electronic/Hip-Hop) Be ready to take a soaring trip with THEESatisfaction’s ambient, out-of-this-world songs. Rich vocals, mesmerizing beats, and global inspirations characterize this “cosmic R&B” album. Their well-crafted lyrics address femininity, nature, race, and the need to worship and protect the world we live in for our future. This album, the duo’s final one before disbanding, acts as an impassioned, meditative, synth-filled P.S.A. to those listening. Favorite Tracks: Planet for Sale, EarthEE, Universal Perspective THE BULLETIN -
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Illustration by Letty DiLeo
hen it comes to finding new music, the Internet is often the first place people turn to. One of the most popular websites music lovers and artists frequently visit is Bandcamp. Bandcamp allows up and coming artists of every and any kind to upload their music, creating a vast, eclectic library. The site allows music fans to discover a host of non-mainstream singers, bands, rappers, etc. and to directly support the artists they love. While there is something for everyone, the sheer amount of music may seem intimidating to sort through. Here are five albums, from punk rock to hip hop, to check out and to get you started on your Bandcamp journey.
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by Julia Tache
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d n th o y e e
NYCL b lE
B i t es
Bub amada nyc by katherine leak
Photo Illustration by Art Board | Photography by Katherine Leak
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few weeks ago, I had a spiritual experience. No, it did not happen inside of a church or temple or other religious space. Instead, it happened at a table in Amada NYC, with a bite of dessert. This trendy tapas bar is located in Battery Park City, near the new One World Trade Center, but its authentic Andalusian cuisine immediately transports you across the ocean to Spain. Last year I unknowingly let New York Restaurant Week pass me by, so this year I was determined to try new places across the city. I stumbled upon Amada online and was immediately intrigued by the three-course lunch menu that highlighted simple and fresh ingredients. After an exhausting week, walking into Amada on a Friday afternoon felt like a breath of fresh air. Accented by pops of blue artwork, the dimly lit space had a
neutral color scheme that was cozy and invited conversation, and the restaurant was filled with people on business lunches or dates. Settling in, I focused my attention on my primary reason for traveling all the way downtown: the food. For my first course, I ordered croquetas de jamon (ham croquettes) that were creamy and rich on the inside but surrounded by a crispy exterior. My second course came with two dishes: patatas bravas (spicy potatoes) and skewers of hanger steak, topped with a garlic, lemon, and parsley sauce. I do not have the opportunity to eat good steak as often as I would like because the dining halls rarely do it justice, so I devoured every bite of this one. Small portions were beautifully arranged on the plates, and I savored the taste of hearty food and pure ingredients that are often lacking in a diet of primarily THE BULLETIN -
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artificial foods. After my amazing first two courses, I did not think it could get any better, but alas I was proven wrong. Looking back on Amada’s website now, I cannot find the name of my dessert from that afternoon, so I assume that it was specific to Restaurant Week (a very depressing thought). Passion fruit puree, thick cream, a little circle of chocolate ganache, and a bite of chocolate cake adorned a small bowl. I cannot even begin to describe the heavenly combination that these ingredients produced, but I know that I will never forget this heavenly experience. My experience at Amada showed that sometimes traveling way beyond the bubble is the way to find true culinary bliss.
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Little-Known Pizzerias W
Illustration by Alice Rowland
hen you think of the New York City food scene, images of extravagant restaurants and aesthetic brunches come to mind. There is a place for every kind of cuisine across the globe in New York, each one trying to outshine the next. However, one city staple will never go out of style: pizza. It’s hard to walk two blocks in the city without encountering a pizzeria. Some, like Famiglia, are popular across the city, while others, like Koronets, are an uptown cult classic. With so many establishments competing to serve you your next carbo-load, it can be difficult to decide where to go. Narrow your options down with these five fab choices.
Joe’s Pizza
Located at 7 Carmine Street, Joe’s Pizza serves the quintessential New York slice. Their plain cheese pizza has a thinner crust with a nice crunch to it that is coupled with a good ratio of cheese and well-seasoned sauce. Their base slice costs $2.75, and the handful of topping slices they offer will run you $3.50. There is some seating inside, but if it is crowded you can walk down the block and enjoy your meal in Union Square Park. It is cash only, so come prepared.
2 Bros. Pizza
Whoever the two bros are, they have got it figured out with eight locations in Manhattan alone. Their Saint Marks Place storefront is narrow and unassuming, with doors that are left propped open no matter the weather and signs offering their famous $1 slice. Their cheese pizza can be on the greasy side, and they do not offer much by way of toppings, but for the
by veronica suchodolski
price it is the exact fix you need if you are craving a quick bite.
Capizzi
Who says pizza can’t be classy? Located in Hell’s Kitchen, Capizzi will blow you away with their personal pizzas cooked in a wood-burning brick oven. Toppings run from your classic margherita to more upscale twists on the original, like their Asparagus Special with formaggi, roasted asparagus, tomatoes, truffle oil, and pine nuts. A small pizza here runs from $11.95 to $19.95 and will leave you feeling full. If you want to share with friends they also offer large pizzas for as much as $28.95.
Che Bella
So we have all been to Koronets, but what else does Morningside Heights have to offer? If you are craving a new slice without making a trek downtown, check out Che Bella located on 120th and Amsterdam. Their cheese slices run the standard $2.75 and feature a hearty tomato sauce. They close early at 8:45 P.M.,
but this is a great place to grab an early dinner with friends or pick up a pie for your club meeting!
Baker’s Pizza
Located on Avenue A in the East Village, Baker’s Pizza is your stop if you are looking to get some variety in your toppings. At this hole-in-the-wall, you’ll find anything from smoked meatballs to broccoli rabe on your slice. Their topping slices cost $4.00, but if you want to stay in your comfort zone they can hook you up with plain cheese for $2.75. Going out for a late-night slice doesn’t have to be a greasy, guilt-ridden experience. Take your pizza game to the next level with these top-notch joints that showcase why New York City is known for its ‘za.
Jumpstart Your Workout by Lilly Kallman
W Disclaimer: The Bulletin does not own any images on this page
ith the new year well underway and New York City temperatures rising, it is impossible to ignore the excitement surrounding spring break. For New Englanders like me, spring break means a return to blustery winds and not so charming brown snow banks. But for those students lucky enough to head somewhere warm for the week, swimsuit season might be arriving early. Here is a sampling of what is out there for the motivated student who is ready to embrace exercise this spring, and maybe even achieve arms like Michelle Obama’s. Sweat It Out Hot yoga has been all the rage for the past couple of years, converting traditional yoga enthusiasts and newbies alike into glistening yoga warriors. Bikram Yoga NYC became the city’s first official BikramYoga studio in 1999 and has grown to encompass four studios throughout Manhattan. Each class lasts ninety minutes, working every muscle in the body and rejuvenating participants. With a location on W72nd street, classes are easily accessible to Barnard and Columbia students. Many purchasing packages are available for frequent attendees, or a single class
can be booked for $27. For the students on a tight budget who still want to try hot yoga, consider checking out Bikram Yoga Harlem on W145th, where a single class costs $15. Take to the Streets Possibly the simplest workout you can do is to go for a walk, jog, or run. With Barnard and Columbia located less than a mile from Riverside or Central Park, there are few excuses for why you can not get out for a quick jaunt. However, it can be difficult to ramp up motivation when you are bogged down by school work and extracurricular commitments. For a chance to storm the streets with other NYC runners, check out the Nike+ spring sessions in Manhattan. Nike+ experts offer sessions for all runners, ranging from “Morning Miles,” to speed sessions, to a “Local Run” that showcases some of the city’s best sites. Weekly session calendars are are published every Sunday at 3pm, so make sure to get online and reserve your spot before someone else beats you to the finish line. Get in Shape Another free and fun way to exercise this spring is with Shape Up NYC. This is a THE BULLETIN -
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drop-in fitness program with locations throughout the city, several of which are in Harlem or on the Upper West Side. Students do not need to register, but can just show up for sessions like aerobics, pilates, or Zumba and get moving. The Shape Up NYC website and its interactive map offers information on the nearest locations as well as the classes that each offer, as activities differ amongst studios. Escape the Concrete Jungle With spring’s beautiful weather, it can feel silly to confine your workouts to an indoor gym. Central Park’s sprawling lawns and paths are home to fitness enthusiasts year round, but the coming months are an especially great time to take advantage of the sunshine and greenery. By visiting the Central Park website and its fitness section, students will find that a variety of activities are offered for beginners and exercise experts alike. Such activities include Fit Tours, Vinyasa Yoga classes, Afro Flow Yoga classes, and Pilates Mat classes. Fit Tours are on the higher price end, at about $40 session, while yoga and pilates classes typically cost $15 per class.