Thursday, December 3, 2015

Thursday, December 3, 2015

Vol. 126, Issue 30

Attorneys call for hazing suit to be dropped Participation was voluntary, defense says Kayla Eanes

Senior Associate Editor

Attorneys for the five former University swim team members accused of hazing are calling for the dismissal of the lawsuit filed by a former teammate.

The lawsuit filed this summer by former University student Anthony Marcantonio claims he and other first-year members were subjected to hazing activities including forced drinking of beer, liquor, milk and prune juice, forced sexual contact, forced consumption of a live goldfish and verbal abuse, all under the threat of retaliation for noncompliance.

Legal teams for the multiple defendants argued the charges — including hazing, assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and negligence — should be dropped because Marcantonio and other first-years were not forced to participate in the alleged activities and remained at the swim house voluntarily.

A Charlottesville judge heard the arguments in a court Monday, but no decision has yet been made. A jury trial is scheduled for September.

Marshall Bronfin | The Cavalier Daily

Marcantonio claims he and other first-year members were hazed by five former University swim team members.

University Athletics Department runs a deficit, according to reports Spending outpaces revenues, student fees nearly double in 10 years

According to reporting done

by The Washington Post, the University’s athletics department is operating at a loss. Over the course of 10 years — between 2004 and 2014 — athletic revenue has jumped $8.7 million while the deficit has risen to $17 million, according to a Washing-

ton Post’s analysis of athletic departments of 53 public schools.

The Athletics Department receives funding from the University operating budget, including a portion of mandatory student fees — $657 per student per year. In 2014-15, the department received $97.6 million from the University’s operating budget, approximately $13.2 million of which came from student fees, according to The Washington Post. Students are charged man-

datory fees to support athletics and other services such as student health, recreational facilities, University transit and Safe Ride.

The department is an “auxiliary” of the University, which means it retains its revenues and is responsible for covering large capital projects through its own budget.

Auxiliary units such as the athletics department “are expected to be fully self-sup-

porting for both operating and capital purposes,” according to a summary of the 2014-15 University operating budget. “As an auxiliary unit, Athletics and IMRec Sports will retain revenues generated (student fees, conference revenue, gate receipts, and corporate sponsorships) and will be held responsible for generating sufficient revenues to cover planned expenditures.”

Revenues in the athletics department come from distribu-

tions from the ACC, student fees, ticket sales and support from the Virginia Athletics Foundation.

“Each sports program submits an annual operational budget request for the following fiscal year to the business office and sport supervisor that feeds into the overall athletics department budget,” Todd Goodale,

MARRIAGE EQUALITY ACTIVIST VISITS U.VA.

VIRGINIA ABC RECEIVES ACCREDITATION

STREAKING VIRGINIA TO HOST WILLIAM & MARY

OPINION: AFTER CRASH, BUS SAFETY MATTERS

VANESSA CARLTON: ARTISTIC EVOLUTION

Chloe Heskett and Savannah Borders Staff Writers

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ATHLETICS

Continued from page 1 the University’s senior associate athletics director for external affairs, told The Cavalier Daily.

“Requests for additional funding are prioritized based on need and funding potential within the department’s overall budget in mind. In some cases, new requests may require fundraising support.”

The department supports 12 men’s varsity sports and 13 women’s varsity sports.

Virginia plays in the Atlantic Coast Conference, considered part of the “Power Five” conferences, which are the wealthiest in the country — primarily because of football. At schools considered “power-house” schools, revenue from ticket sales, contributions, NCAA and conference distribution of funding, sponsorships and endorsements is significantly higher than at other

The Cavalier Daily schools. Spending in these programs primarily goes to coach and staff salaries and benefits, facilities and travel and recruiting, according to revenue and expense reports for 2015.

In fiscal year 2015, football ticket sales at the University totaled almost $8 million, while men’s basketball was just under $4 million. Ticket sales for every other sport combined just surpassed $1 million, according to public financial reports from the Athletics Department.

In fact, most sports lost money over the course of the year.

Goodale said there is benefit to losing money on sports.

“We understand there’s a cost to provide opportunities for male and female student-athletes to excel,” Goodale said. “We believe this is part of the University’s overall commitment to excellence.”

The Virginia Athletic Foundation, a private foundation that raises money through private donations on behalf of the athletics department, plays a vital funding role.

The money raised by the VAF supports a portion of the department’s operational budget and alleviates costs incurred from student-athlete scholarships and the athletic academic affairs budget.

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The Athletics Department receives $97.6 million from the University operating budget “Other than personnel services” (OPTS)* (29%) Compensation (39%)

Transfers to reserves (6%)

Debt service on facilities (10%) Grants-in-aid**

*Includes operation and management of facilities, equipment, uniforms, and other supporting expenses ($28.3 million) **Fully funded by donations from the Virginia Athletic Foundation (16%)

“The VAF is similar to other foundations on Grounds that generate revenue to support a specific UVA department,” Goodale said.

Of the $97.6 million total allocation, 39 percent is related to compensation, 16 percent

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to grants-in-aid (fully funded by donations from the Virginia Athletic Foundation), 10 percent covered debt service on facilities and 6 percent involved transfers to reserves. The remaining 29 percent — $28.3 million — went to “other than personnel ser-

Graphic by Anne Owen

vices” which include operation and management of facilities, equipment, uniforms and other supporting expenses, according to a 2014-15 Board of Visitor’s budget summary.

Elizabeth Parker contributed to reporting.

NEWS

Thursday, December 3, 2015

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Marriage equality activist speaks at Miller Center Marc Solomon discusses 15 to 30 year social movement David Schutte Associate Editor

Marc Solomon, a prominent activist for the marriage equality movement and author of “Winning Marriage,” visited the University’s Miller Center for a taping of the weekly discussion show “American Forum,” which airs on PBS. Solomon is the national campaign director for Freedom to Marry, which led the campaign fighting for the legal right to same-sex marriage in the United States.

“We were interested in exploring both the question of how American attitudes on gay marriage changed so quickly, and also where that movement goes next,” said Douglas Blackmon, executive producer and host of the show. “There have been several books on the equal marriage phenomenon, but Sol-

omon's is probably the best, and he is an articulate voice for describing what lies ahead."

Solomon and Blackmon, executive producer and host of “American Forum,” spoke mainly about the process by which the movement engaged Americans via culture.

“It was a social movement, a result of 15-30 years of telling stories with the ultimate goal of getting the Supreme Court to rule the way it did,” Solomon said. “Ten to 15 years ago, they wouldn’t have ruled this way.”

Blackmon asked why the movement pushed specifically for the traditional marriage model as opposed to an alternative. Solomon said the latter would be alienating for many same sex couples.

Discussions such as this one are hosted weekly at the Miller Center. They’re informative and interesting, Blackmon said, but the program has an important

function outside entertainment.

“Hardly anyone has time to sift through hundreds of books and articles and interviews, looking for the little diamonds that may illuminate complicated issues,” Blackmon said. “We do that, while always looking for the ways that lessons of history might give some guidance on how best to make decisions today.”

Fourth-year College student Elizabeth Spear, who attended the event, said discussions like these are important because they are a good forum for “civilized debate.” However, she didn’t feel Blackmon and Solomon gave enough credit to the power of popular media.

“It’s also important to remember the role the younger generation played,” Spear said.

American Forum will next host University Law Prof. Brandon Garrett on Dec. 10.

John Pappas | The Cavalier Daily

Solomon’s talk was taped as part of the weekly discussion show “American Forum,” which airs on PBS.

Albemarle County hires natural resources manager David Hannah fills new position to protect, conserve county resources

Grayson Kemper Senior Writer

Albemarle County named David Hannah the county’s natural resources manager, a newly created position which became effective with an announcement issued Tuesday.

“In this newly created position, David will develop, coordinate, and administer natural resource protection, conservation, and monitoring programs,” the press release states.

Hannah previously served as the executive director at StreamWatch, a non-profit organization tasked with monitoring the Rivanna Watershed. He also spent six years as conservation director of Wild Virginia.

Hannah described his conception of the position as holding a bifold purpose of protect-

ing and conserving the natural resources of Albemarle County and outlined his long-term plan of increasing public awareness of those resources.

“I see my role as trying to come up with some strategies and measures to be taken to help increase awareness of our natural resources over the long term,” Hannah said. “You know, in five to 10 years, to try to increase public awareness of the resources that we have, and part of that will [be] public outreach and public education”.

Jeff Sitler, environmental compliance manager with the University Facilities Management Office, lauded the county’s decision.

“David is an excellent candidate for the position,” Sitler said. “He is very knowledgeable and good with speaking with the public.”

Sitler said he felt Hannah would be able to provide valuable assistance to the environmental aspect of development in Albemarle County, particularly given the effects development tends to have on stream degradation.

“The county is growing, and there are a lot of areas which we view as undeveloped,” Sitler said. “There are streams in some areas that have been highly degraded because of development.

It is important that the county has someone who understands that, someone who can look into [the] future and manage and lessen those impacts.”

Hannah said he was optimistic about the potential the position possessed for positive impact in the county and said he would not have taken the position if he did not think there was good work to be done.

Courtesy Charlottesville Tomorrow

Hannah said he was optimistic about the potential the position possessed for positive impact.

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NEWS

The Cavalier Daily

Seriatim, Queer Student Union host panel on gay rights Event follows marriage equality decision, many more vital issues still to be addressed, panelists say Kristen Cugini Senior Writer

The Seriatim Journal and Queer Student Union co-hosted a panel Tuesday discussing the Gay Rights Movement after the landmark Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges, which guaranteed same-sex couples the right to marry.

Panelists included University Law Prof. Douglas Laycock, Women, Gender, and Sexuality Prof. Doug Meyer and LGBTQ Student Services Coordinator Scott Rheinheimer.

The Seriatim Journal hosts events which allow members of the University community to come together and discuss pertinent socio-political issues, said fourth-year College student Ian Robertson, co-editor-in-chief of the Seriatim Journal.

“After this summer, Obergefell v. Hodges was at the forefront of a lot of people’s minds throughout the University,” Robertson said. “We wanted to provide a forum where people from the legal side and the social and political sides could come together and provide different perspectives.”

The different panelists each brought a distinct viewpoint which allowed the discussion to go beyond just the political significance of the case, Robertson said.

“The interdisciplinary nature of these sorts of forums allows people to talk about issues in a unique way,” Robertson said.

“The intersection of the different perspectives coming together provides something that you can’t necessarily get in a classroom.”

While Obergefell v. Hodges legally guaranteed same-sex couples the right to marry, it

also served as a political symbol for the gay rights movement, Laycock said.

“Same-sex couples will get married and those who are opposed will see that nothing bad happens,” Laycock said. “I do think the resistance will fade away because of the larger forces that were shifting public opinion before the decision.”

Panelists said they consider the Obergefell case a victory for the gay rights movement, but said there is much more to be done.

“The important issues to put on the agenda are things like

homelessness, police violence, trans people’s access to medical care,” Meyer said. “These are life or death issues.”

During the panel, Rheinheimer brought up several issues specific to college students, such as housing and health records for transgender students.

“We have to push back against the narrative that we have gay marriage so everything is equal now,” Meyer said. “[Discussions like these] have the potential to spark the imagination and bring in critical discussions about things that you aren’t hearing in the media.”

Virginia ABC receives accreditation Process has no relation to ongoing lawsuit, says Martese Johnson’s lawyer Hannah Hall Associate Editor

The Virginia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control Bureau of Law Enforcement became accredited on Dec. 1.

The agency was accredited by the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission, comprised of a panel of police chiefs and sheriffs across the state, according to a press release from Gov. Terry McAuliffe.

In order to become accredited, an agency must undergo a threeday examination which reviews agency policies, procedures, processes and operations defined by 190 standards, Kathleen Shaw, public relations manager for Virginia ABC, said in an email.

“During the three days, they inspected files, incident reports, photos, equipment and facilities,” Shaw said. “The assessment team also conducted interviews and obser-

vations and reviewed activities to ensure consistency of best practices across all of ABC’s nine regional offices throughout the commonwealth.”

The accreditation will hold ABC law enforcement and its officers to a higher standard, Shaw said.

One way of enforcing accountability in the agency will be through a wide range of time sensitive audits ABC law enforcement must maintain, Shaw said.

While this is the agency’s initial accreditation, ABC Law Enforcement is the 92nd of 400 law enforcement agencies in the state to become accredited by these standards, Shaw said. Ryant Washington, Virginia ABC special policy advisor for law enforcement, said the accreditation has given the agency an “important framework for professional self-inspection.”

“It has increased the effectiveness of our policy development, the efficiency of our delivery of services and ensures that we continue to

provide proper training,” Washington said in a press release. “We are committed to maintaining this high level of professionalism and responsibility.”

According to Shaw, the agency has been pursuing accreditation for several years, well before the altercation on the Corner with Fourthyear College student Martese Johnson last year. Johnson’s lawyer, Daniel Watkins, said any accreditation ABC receives is separate from the pending lawsuit.

“The role of ABC in law enforcement continues to be a question that we as a community grapple with and I think it’s an important question because law enforcement’s main role is to protect society, and so in order to ensure that that goal is fulfilled it means regular consistent review of practices to ensure that the right things are being done,” Watkins said.

In order to maintain its accreditation, the agency will be reassessed every four years.

Take a Santa Pause from studying.

Courtesy ABC

ABC Law Enforcement is the 92nd of 400 law enforcement agencies in the state to become accredited by the professional standards commission.

PU ZZLES

Thursday, December 3, 2015

December 3, 2015

UPCOMING EVENTS Thursday 12/3 Second Year Council Presents: Lighting of the Lawn Garden Party, 3:30-5 p.m., Garden VIII “The Fate of Journalism in the New Media Environment”, 4-6 p.m., Harrison Institute Auditorium, Harrison Institute and Small Special Collections Library 15th Annual Lighting of the Lawn, 7 p.m., The Lawn Virginia Anthropology Society Study Break, 7-9 p.m., Brooks Hall Commons Trustees Present: LOTL Pavilion Reception, 7-9:30 p.m., Pavilion V BSA and the Baucom Family Present Lighting of the Lawn Reception, 7 p.m., Pavilion X Friday 12/4

First Year Players Presents: Merrily We Roll Along!, 8 p.m., Student Activities Building UPC Presents: Happy HOOlidays, 10 p.m. 1 a.m., Newcomb Theater FOA with Teresa Sullivan, 2:30-3:30 p.m., Nau Hall 101 Saturday 12/5 Men’s Basketball vs. William & Mary, 2 p.m., John Paul Jones Arena Abundant Life Christmas Banquet, 6 p.m., Memorial Gymnasium Women’s Basketball vs. NJIT, 7 p.m., John Paul Jones Arena Hullabahoos Winter Concert, 8 p.m., McLeod Hall First Year Players Presents: Merrily We Roll Along!, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., Student Activities Building

WEEKLY CROSSWORD SOLUTION

By Sam Ezersky

*NEXT WEEK’S PUZZLE CAN BE FOUND IN MONDAY’S ISSUE

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UPC Presents: Winterfest, 10 p.m. - 2 a.m., Ern Commons Sunday 12/6 The Great Charlottesville Santa Fun Run, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m., Charlottesville Downtown Mall First Year Players Presents: Merrily We Roll Along!, 8 p.m., Student Activities Building Monday 12/7 Tuesday 12/8 Women’s Basketball vs. Bowling Green, 11 a.m., John Paul Jones Arena McIntire Department of Music Presents: 48th Annual Messiah Sing-In, 8 p.m., Old Cabell Hall

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The Cavalier Daily

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Women’s basketball falls to Iowa, 85-73

sports

Floor general Venson scores career-high 28 points for home team, No. 24 Hawkeyes tally 311th win under Bluder

Grant Gossage Associate Editor

Pushing the tempo and finishing at an improved clip, the Virginia women’s basketball team competed early with Iowa Wednesday night at John Paul Jones Arena. Less than a minute into the second quarter, sophomore point guard Mikayla Venson sized up her defender and drained a deep three to level the score at 21.

An ensuing 14-6 Hawkeye run behind perimeter jump shots and uncontested layups gave the team in black and gold a 35-27 lead. Cavalier coach Joanne Boyle called a timeout to stop the bleeding, but a spread-out Iowa offense continued to light up Virginia (5-3, 0-0 ACC) behind the arc and pile up weak-side rebounds once play resumed.

Through two quarters, the No. 24 Hawkeyes (7-1, 0-0 Big 10) shot 50 percent from the floor, including 6for-13 from three. Thankfully for Virginia, Venson and senior guard Faith Randolph combined for 21 points on

50 percent shooting and limited the deficit to 40-35 at the break. At that point, the game felt well within reach.

Iowa coach Lisa Bluder, seeking her 667th career win and 311th at Iowa, paced into the tunnel with a stern expression on her face. Bluder’s Hawkeyes responded in the third quarter, extending their lead to a comfortable 18 points.

“They really spread the floor, and honestly that’s one of our weak spots, you know four-out one-in,” Boyle said.

“We got exposed on dribble penetration. I think when [they] started scoring a lot in the third quarter, we ended up having to call some sets, and that’s not our strength.”

Virginia followed up arguably its best two quarters this season in terms of knocking down shots — 55 percent and 5-for-9 from three — by making only five buckets on 17 attempts in the period, while Iowa scored 23 points off simple cuts and ball screens.

The Cavaliers showed a little bit of life around the midway point of the fourth quarter after layups by junior guard Breyana Mason and sophomore forward Lauren Moses cut the gap to 11 with less than 5 minutes left.

Virginia turned up the defensive pressure, but Iowa stayed composed offensively and sank free throws.

“Well, the point guard was definitely making their press break go,” Venson said. “We were trying to stop her, but she was just catching it and going. It was pretty hard to stop that, and we’re in foul trouble. We can’t really be aggressive with that.”

A disparity from the charity stripe hurt Virginia all night as the Hawkeyes made 15-21 attempts compared to the Cavalier mark of 9-13, which was bolstered considerably in garbage time.

“We could have been more aggressive, and just in our half-court set could have continued to attack,” Venson said. “They weren’t great at [handling] ball screens, and their post players weren’t so fast. … We definitely could have attacked more and gotten to the free throw line more in the first half.”

The Iowa offense frustrated Randolph, Moses and sophomore guard Aliyah Huland El, sending each to the bench with five personal fouls.

“Lauren [Moses] has done a great job anchoring us, and so when she is out of the game it’s tough,” Boyle said.

Marshall Bronfin| The Cavalier Daily

Sophomore point guard Mikayla Venson shot 9-for-18 from the field and scored 15 points in the fourth quarter, but her team dropped its third game in a row after a poor third quarter.

“We just have to have a conversation. I know she is trying to play physical and strong, but somehow she’s got to try and stay in the game more.”

Despite a career-high 28-point performance on 9-of-18 shooting from Venson and 28 points from the Virginia offense during the fourth quarter, Iowa coasted to its seventh win of the season, 85-73.

“We didn’t have flow,” Boyle said.

“I think it was really stagnant in that one quarter. It was very rigid, and you know I think basketball is a game; it's both ends of the floor. … We’ve been playing so many games. We just need a time to get a little bit of practice in.”

The Cavaliers have two days to prepare for what ought to be a lighter contest versus New Jersey Institute of Technology (2-4, 0-0 A-Sun).

Streaking Virginia to host William & Mary No. 10 Cavaliers seek sixth consecutive win Saturday at John Paul Jones Arena, Perrantes questionable after appendectomy Ben Tobin Associate Editor

After spending nine days away, the Virginia men’s basketball team will return to its home floor Saturday afternoon to face William & Mary in an intrastate duel.

The No. 10 Cavaliers (6-1) have been on a hot streak since they lost

to George Washington Nov. 16.

Winning five straight, Virginia averaged 79.2 points per game while holding opponents to an average of 57.4 points per game. However, against Ohio State — Virginia’s first major-conference opponent — the Cavaliers eked out a narrow 64-58 victory.

“I thought we were sluggish,” Virginia coach Tony Bennett said.

Hannah Mussi | The Cavalier Daily

Junior point guard London Perrantes underwent an appendectomy Sunday and missed Tuesday’s win against Ohio State. He might not play Saturday either.

“We had enough sound defensive plays, but we have to keep on improving.”

Scoring only 26 points in the first half, Virginia put up its lowest halftime total of the season. Eventually, the Cavaliers kicked things into high gear. Shooting 50 percent from downtown, Virginia scored 24 points off 3-pointers. Senior guard Malcolm Brogdon, who scored 22 points in the game, had two-thirds of those long-distance makes.

“I thought Malcolm really played well for us and carried us where we needed to be carried,” Bennett said.

Now, Virginia will take on a team that barely missed the chance to play in its first-ever NCAA tournament last year, William & Mary (5-2).

While the Tribe lost its all-time leading scorer, guard Marcus Thornton, who was drafted in the second round of the 2015 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics, the team is still a force to be reckoned with.

In the last matchup between the teams, Virginia dismantled William & Mary 76-52 to kick off the 2010 season. However, the Tribe has grown since. Putting up 85 points in a winning effort against NC State to start the season, William & Mary set the pace for its offense for the rest of

the year. Led by junior guard Omar Prewitt, who has put up 17.4 points per game, the Tribe has averaged just under 74 points per contest — making it one of the more prolific offenses that Virginia will have faced thus far.

Additionally, Virginia may have to play a second consecutive game without its starting point guard, junior London Perrantes, who had an appendectomy Sunday.

“It’s just unfortunate that it’s our second [injury] in a short amount of time,” Bennett said. “[We want him back] sooner than later, but we’ll do what’s best for him of course.”

The Cavalier squad proved it has exemplary depth Tuesday against the Buckeyes. With Perrantes sidelined, sophomore guard Darius Thompson stepped up, playing 36 minutes and racking up 12 points as well as six dimes. Sophomores forward Isaiah Wilkins and guard Devon Hall both came off the bench to play a combined 49 minutes. Contributing 16 crucial points as well as 10 rebounds, Virginia’s bench was instrumental in the victory against Ohio State and will continue to help the team against William & Mary.

“We’re a veteran team that has depth,” Bennett said. “I’ve talked

about that a lot this year.”

If Virginia wants to secure a victory against William & Mary, it must continue to play lockdown defense.

Holding Ohio State to 24 points in the first half was impressive, but allowing the Buckeyes to score 34 in the second half nearly lost the Cavaliers the game. If Virginia gets lax on defense, William & Mary may take full advantage and exploit it for easy points.

Additionally, while the Cavaliers shot accurately from 3-point territory Tuesday, they must be willing to drive to the hoop more. Virginia only made it to the charity stripe 13 times against Ohio State — three less attempts than from downtown.

To diversify its offense and score easy points, Virginia must utilize its size against a game Tribe team.

This contest comes before the Cavaliers take on their first ranked opponent of the season, No. 20 West Virginia. From there, Virginia enters a difficult portion of its schedule, playing No. 8 Villanova in the following game and conference foes January. The team needs a strong showing Saturday to keep its momentum.

Tipoff against William & Mary is scheduled for 2 p.m.

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Thursday, December 3, 2015

LEAD EDITORIAL

Students should care about bus safety

opinion

Sunday’s accident highlights need to address real problem Earlier this week, a Home Ride bus with students from U.Va., Radford and Virginia Tech overturned outside of Richmond, injuring 34 of its 50 passengers. While the incident may appear isolated for U.Va. students, transportation safety — especially for interstate buses — is important for students since they frequently take lowbudget buses. Inadequate regulation can cost lives.

Students account for at least 21 percent of passengers on motorcoaches, or passenger buses that can carry up to 55 passengers, according to Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. For motorcoach crashes, a primary concern is occupant ejection, in which a passenger is thrown from his seat. Such ejections are especially dangerous in the case of rollover events — and approximately 29 percent of fatal motorcoach crashes result in rollover, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Despite the fact that intercity buses may have seat belts, more than half

Comment of the day “Asserting ‘what is right’ is a helpful turn in the conversation. Hopefully the broader community of the University will do that. But we’ll need guidance for that conversation: have you a model for that conversation?”

“Galatians328” in response to the Aryn Frazier’s Nov. 30 “What’s the Word” article, “Decommodifying diversity.”

of the deaths in motorcoach crashes are the result of occupant ejections, and in rollover events, 70 percent of passenger fatalities stem from ejections.

Motorcoach crashes happen far more frequently than other vehicular accidents. A 2012 study from the Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine demonstrates that buses and commercial motor vehicles have a higher likelihood of a fatal crash involvement per registered vehicle than passenger vehicles and light trucks. On average annually, motorcoach carriers were involved in 1,003 reported crashes, 32 fatal crashes resulting in 44 deaths and 505 nonfatal crashes that injured a minimum of one person. While accidents in general may be rare, when they happen, they cause high numbers of fatal or serious injuries. And since interstate motorcoach travel is currently among the most rapidly growing modes of transport, we have reason to believe such accidents will only increase.

Part of the issue, it seems, is that the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration does not monitor these buses closely enough. Motorcoaches have no roof strength or seat belt requirements — even for school buses, for which seat belts are required in only six states. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has proposed new safety regulations, including requiring passenger lap and shoulder seat belts on over-theroad buses and new buses with a high gross vehicle weight rating, in order to lower the risk of occupant ejection, but this proposal has not yet been implemented. Requiring seat belt use and strengthening vehicles would go a long way in making these buses safer.

Students use motorcoaches with some regularity, which means highway and transportation safety matters specifically for our community. Given Home Ride’s accident Sunday, motorcoach-related injury could affect us more than we think.

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OPINION

The Cavalier Daily

ISIS shouldn’t shut down study abroad The threat of terrorism to Westerners has been blown out of proportion like the safe destination I had imagined since I was young, but rather an unpredictable and vulnerable petrators, from the place. Of course, Europe self-proclaimed Islamic has been a terrorist tarJESSE BERMAN State, or ISIS, had previget before, and Spain Opinion Columnist ously threatened attacks in particular suffered a against the West, the horrific attack in 2004 events in Paris regrettably showed that killed nearly 200 people. Yet, that their threats could become this attack particularly hit home for reality. Thus, it might be under- me, and I would be lying if I said standable that many American I did not have immediate second college students who are currently thoughts about my decision to travplanning to study abroad in Eu- el to Europe. rope might feel more ambivalent Nevertheless, the primary goal than ever before. Yet at this time, I of a terrorist organization like ISIS would advise prospective students is to invoke fear in its Western opto continue with their plans, unless ponents and cause sustained damterrorist threats get exponentially age to society over time. Changing more severe in the near future, as travel plans is a result ISIS would changing study abroad plans out of look upon favorably, as it would fear serves to enhance the Islamic disrupt Western way of life and State’s cause and is an unnecessary the economy. In response to Paris, decision so long as proper precau- the U.S. State Department issued tions are taken. a travel warning that encouraged Needless to say, as someone who Americans to “exercise vigilance” is studying abroad in Spain next se- while abroad, making special note mester, the Paris tragedy made me not to discourage overseas travel alfeel especially uncomfortable. Eu- together. Likewise, following previrope, the continent I have wished ous European terror attacks in 2004 to explore for years, no longer felt and 2005, in Madrid and London

respectively, tourism dropped immediately. Yet within several weeks, the industry was flourishing again.

The State Department understands that discouraging travel to Europe is not a move that would benefit Americans, as it would be too extreme and would ultimately serve the ISIS’ ends. Likewise, the past demonstrates that it is common for tourists to get hung up in the imme-

will recognize the impracticability of such as move, because acting in such a manner only serves to enhance the ISIS’ perverse ambitions.

The Paris attacks have heightened the perception that Europe is very susceptible to terrorism as of late, and that avoiding the continent altogether is an infallible way of staying safe. However, this is a gross overgeneralization. While the United States is currently slightly less susceptible to terrorism, it is still relatively equal to Europe when compared to other countries around the world. For example, Changing study abroad plans out of fear serves between 2000 and 2013 80 percent of to enhance the Islamic State’s cause and is terrorism casualan unnecessary decision so long as proper ties occurred in just precautions are taken.” five countries, all of which are in Afridiate aftermath of a traumatic act of ca, the Middle East or South Asia. terror, and some colleges, such as American citizens are nearly four Furman University, have already times more likely to die from bedecided to cut their study abroad ing struck by lightning than they programs short. Yet hopefully in are from dying in a terrorist attack the future colleges and individuals in any part of the world, including

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he harrowing terrorist attacks T in Paris just a few weeks ago rocked the world. While the per-

both Europe and one of these five highly susceptible countries. Thus, while it is a normal human reflex to fear travelling to places where terror has recently occurred, it is nonetheless critical to understand the greater context of terrorism in the West, and the mere improbability of it affecting an American citizen.

Since the Islamic State’s ominous attacks in Paris on Nov. 13, the terror group has appeared closer to the West than ever before, especially in Europe. Nevertheless, over 1,000 University students travelled to Europe last year to study abroad, and I certainly hope that number does not decrease because of the looming threat of Islamic terrorism. Threats may continue to be prevalent, but they should not keep students from embarking on an unforgettable study abroad experience.

Jesse’s columns run Wednesdays.

He can be reached at j.berman@cavalierdaily.com.

Parental leave for all Both mothers and fathers can benefit from paid leave to spend time with their children couple of weeks ago, Mark a year. Still, the practice is rather Zuckerberg announced he uncommon. These are only two of will take two months of pater- the mere 17 percent of companies nity leave upon his in the United States daughter’s birth. Simoffering paid paterniALYSSA IMAM ilarly, Rep. Paul Ryan ty leave in 2015, acOpinion Columnist recently accepted the cording to the Society position of Speaker of of Human Resources the House on the condition that Management. he would still be able to spend It seems to me our societime with his family. My fellow ty often displays a cultural bias Opinion columnist Matt Wine- against mothers in the office and sett has written a piece concern- fathers in the home, despite 40 ing the media’s reaction to Ryan’s percent of women being the sole move, explaining that conserva- or primary breadwinner of housetive thought can position one in holds with children. Those who opposition of a federal mandate proclaim the wage gap a myth cite even for a practice he may sup- the statistic not relying on “qualport. Mandated or not, paternity ity of work” as a factor, which is leave could have beneficial impli- hard to properly measure. But cations for how we view the roles this view ignores the implicit bias of men and women in society, that women often face as they’re in turn narrowing the wage gap. expected to naturally work less in Businesses should also feel in- order to place family above work. centivized to adopt it due to the While employers read fathers as positive impacts it could have in more stable and committed since performance. they have a family to provide for, Recently, quite a few notable parenthood by women is concompanies have embraced pa- ventionally seen as working less ternity leave. Apart from Face- and becoming more distractible book, which offers its American on the job. Looking to the typiemployees up to four months of cal scenario of women being less paid paternity leave, Netflix offers likely to be offered a higher posiunlimited parental leave for up to tion due to bearing the physical

burden when having a child, it becomes clear that we place too little value on the father’s role beyond simply providing financial support.

This is shown in the “motherhood penalty.” Controlling for factors causing some not to believe in the wage gap, including hours worked, on average, men’s earnings increase more than 6

family friendly (and often lower paying) jobs explains a quarter to a third of this penalty. Making leave gender-neutral would help reduce that penalty.

Apart from social gains, adopting paternity leave can also more simply serve as a smart business move by leading to a more productive workplace. After California instituted paid maternity leave for mothers, 91 percent of employers said the policy either boosted profits and also noted improved productivity, higher morale and reduced It seems to me our society often displays a turnover. This effect cultural bias against mothers in the office and could be augmented with men particifathers in the home...” pating as well. Nancy Altobello, the vice chair for talent at the consulting percent whey they have children, firm EY, explained that her firm while women’s decrease 4 per- encourages fathers to take leave cent for each child. Furthermore, because “it fosters a different the explanation of fathers often sense of cooperation when the working more has been found to women and men are both taking explain at most 16 percent of that leave and understanding what it’s bonus, while mothers’ cutting like to have newborns at home.” back on hours or accepting more Of course, the physical burden

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of bearing children for women needs to be accounted for, perhaps in amount of leave allotted.

But when it’s only women who take parental leave, they’re less likely to be promoted and they tend to make less. By taking a more gender-neutral approach to parental leave, businesses could avoid costly turnover and retain valued expertise and skills, which would then be combined with the new perspectives those employees could bring to the table.

I understand it would probably take a fairly substantial amount of time for both men and women equally taking parental leave to become commonplace, as well as for associated biases facing both genders to notably diminish. Still, the option has to be available in order for it to be taken at all, and if paternity leave becoming a more mainstream practice is a step toward a society that values the roles of fathers and mothers equally, both at home and in the office, then it is one worth considering.

Alyssa’s columns run Wednesdays. She can be reached at a.imam@cavalierdaily.com.

SPEND LESS TIME IN THE LIBRARY AND GO OUTSIDE

OPINION

Thursday, December 3, 2015

9

Give students a week off for Thanksgiving The current break is poorly timed and inconvenient

better value and more flexibility on when they can leave so they can either leave as soon as possible or leave Grounds and the when it is as cheap as greater Charlottesville possible.

SAWAN PATEL area and head back for Under the current Opinion Columnist the delights of home. I system, students are ofquestion, however, the ten forced to choose decision not to give students the en- between actually spending quality tire week of Thanksgiving off. The time with family by leaving early two-day gap between the weekend or attending class on Monday and prior to Thanksgiving break and Tuesday. Many students and parthe actual break means students ents of students are not comfortable must choose between affordable doing so and as such are forced to travel, attending class and/or a live with a three-day break because more comprehensive vacation. of the two days required for tranMost importantly, the policy sit. Other Virginia colleges such as of having class on Monday and Virginia Tech and Liberty UniverTuesday before Thanksgiving dis- sity give the entire week of Thanksproportionately hurts students giving off. If the administrators at who are out-of-state or interna- Tech are forward-thinking enough tional. These students are already to institute a long break, Univerrestricted on the number of times sity leadership definitely can and they can go home by transit time should. and travel costs compared to stuA longer break would be benedents from Virginia. Therefore, for ficial because with extra time, stumany of them, Thanksgiving is the dents would be more likely to study only time of the fall semester when over break. In the current five-day they can go home. Furthermore, a break, many students — including shorter break means travel costs are myself — forgo studying to spend more expensive for people who live the limited time available with parfurther away. These travel costs are ents, friends and family. There is no fixed, and starting break on Friday way that students want to study on would mean these students can get what is for many the only time they

get at home for a whole semester.

What is most striking is the perversion of “Reading Days” into a break for those who live close or are willing to buy plane or train tickets home. What was originally intended as a study break for students before midterms has become an opportunity to go home only if you can. Let’s make it easier for people who live far away; even international students could justify going home if break was from Friday before Thanksgiving to the Monday

vide time to relax and more adequately prepare for the final exams that are going to follow.

An extended Thanksgiving break is an opportunity for reflection and the shortness of the break stifles the potential for critical analysis of the semester so far. As the only extended break of the semester, it provides an opportunity for students to make connections and think critically about classes and academic life in general. It is very easy to get caught up in focusing on the next thing continuously.

The fact that this opportunity is before finals is critical because these connections are crucial for a deeper understanding of Under the current system, students are often course material in the greater context of forced to choose between actually spending the course. quality time with family by leaving early or A longer break attending class on Monday and Tuesday.” would empower students to think critiafter. cally by giving them time off from Such an extended break would focusing on their classes so they be a boon to students before the can process the information they busy weeks of finals season and af- have acquired both consciously and ter all the midterms are finished. unconsciously. Stepping away from The week-long break would pro- a tough problem can be beneficial

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o many students, ThanksgivT ing is the one time of the fall semester during which they can

to understanding it or seeing it in a different light, and a longer break would allow for more of these critical connections to be made.

The cancellation of classes on Monday and Tuesday would allow University employees to get more time with their families by allowing them to do maintenance around Grounds on those days, instead of having to wait until Wednesday for students to leave. Unappreciated as University and associated workers may seem, a longer break for us also means a longer break for them.

The University often stresses the emotional and physical well-being of students and faculty, but in this case it fails to capitalize on a prime opportunity to achieve that through a longer Thanksgiving break. Instead of providing an opportunity for students to decompress before finals, the hectic break schedule actually stresses many out even more than during normal weeks.

Sawan’s columns run Tuesdays.

He can be reached at s.patel@cavalierdaily.com.

The financial power behind ISIS Defeating the organization will require attacking its funding sources oil. The Islamic State has taken control of several oilfields in both Syria and Iraq, controlling more than ings throughout the 60 percent of Syria’s oil Middle East have esproduction capacity and CARLOS LOPEZ tablished a new interless than 10 percent of Opinion Columnist national military tarIraq’s. The study puts get: the Islamic State. the Islamic State as the Relentless airstrike campaigns and world’s richest terrorist organizacoalitions have increased in the past tion, with unprecedented terrorist few weeks and seem to be picking financing figures. For this reason, up the pace: in early November, a oil has become an essential source U.S. military official announced of revenue for the terrorist organiplans to ramp up airstrikes against zation. the terrorist organization. Efforts to The United States has been tarweaken the organization have also geting these oil installations since focused on another vital lifeline: last year, and has recently revamped their wallets. its attacks on Islamic State’s indusIt is hard to argue against the trial base ― following the French fact that the Islamic State is an ex- airstrike campaign in Raqqa, Syrceptionally powerful, rich and re- ia, the United States “striked more sourceful terrorist organization. than 100 tanker trucks used to It has taken control of alarmingly transport oil that helps the militant large and strategically valuable ter- group earn tens of millions of dolritories and exerts control over a lars each month.” wide range of commercial and inHowever, there is a downside to dustrial activities such as oil and ag- this approach. Airstrikes targeting ricultural products. Some estimates oil installations can result in the assert that the value of the Islamic crippling of an essential internaState’s assets currently exceeds $2 tional industry. Taking down and trillion, with an annual revenue of destroying oil installations might over $2.9 billion. prove to be damaging in the long According to a study conduct- run. Therefore, the United States ed by Thomson Reuters, almost 40 has been careful in its attempts to percent of this revenue comes from stop these oil installations from

functioning. According to Col. Steve Warren, the United States military does not want to “completely and utterly destroy these facilities to where they’re irreparable.”

In order to fully hinder the Islamic State’s funding and avoid obliterating such a vital industry in their respective regions, the United States and other countries fighting ISIS should also focus on targeting and dismantling the underground networks and money laundering streams that are used to move funds to and from the Islamic State

the terrorist organization. In the Reuters report, the estimate of the total tax extortion system imposed in Islamic State-controlled areas is as high as $360 million a year. According to people living inside or recently escaped from ISIS-controlled territories, the group “exacts tolls and traffic tickets; rent for government buildings; utility bills for water and electricity; taxes on income, crops and cattle; and fines for smoking or wearing the wrong clothes.”

Ultimately, the Islamic State does generate significant revenue from within its territories and the people it rules. This means that in order for the Islamic State to truly disappear, it must Some conservative estimates assert that the be expelled from value of the Islamic State’s assets currently these territories. The exceeds $2 trillion, with an annual revenue of only way to destroy its revenue base, it over $2.9 billion.” seems, is through military force. and they should focus on targeting I have to admit, this all truly unother sources of revenue. settles me. I see an increasingly rich organization that is all too familiar Petty crime, kidnapping, ex- with the measures the international tortion and taxes are all incredibly financial regulatory community has important sources of funding for put in place to cut off this funding.

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he recent Paris attacks, downT ing of a Russian airliner over Egypt and spasms of wanton kill-

It is an organization that truly exploits money laundering networks ― some of which have been in place for decades ― to fund its activities.

Putting in place mechanisms that both allow and facilitate anti-money laundering teams and specialized suppliers to identify hidden middle-men and networks that provide funds to the Islamic State should prove effective in both the short run and the long run. But in the end, if we truly want this terrorist organization to disappear, it will have to be confronted with full military might.

Combating the Islamic State financially is not the ultimate solution, but it is definitely a vital factor that should be in play. Our military efforts should not be focused solely on destroying the Islamic State’s oil infrastructure, but should also include alternative efforts in draining their coffers. We all know that without the proper funding, the Islamic State would become more vulnerable to our military strategies.

Carlos’s columns run Thursdays.

He can be reached at c.lopez@cavalierdaily.com.

HU MOR

Thursday, December 3, 2015

10

Just for wits.

Post-grad advice from someone who has a right to give it have a foot in the grave, don’t you?

Yeah, that’s right, you’re going to be done soon! You have to make was two-fold. Firstly, a decisions about your sense of surprise that life! No, don’t you dare CHRIS BAUER anyone in college might look away from the Guest Writer be interested in reading page! Feel the panic what I have to say. You swelling up in your and I, dear reader, are throat and embrace in different places in our lives. You it. Admit it to yourself: you’re have a social life, classes, activities leaving Charlottesville. Because sponsored by the University. I work if you stick around, you’re going from home, spending most of my to be “the person” who graduated day hunkered over a desk eating but stayed in Charlottesville for dolphin-safe tuna straight out of a reasons unclear. When people see can with my fingers and ignoring you they will smile and greet you, texts from people telling me to go but when you walk away they will outside. “Go outside, Chris,” they shake their heads and click their say. “You can’t keep living like this, tongues and make unkind remarks your skin has become translucent.” about you to each other, such as But I merely hiss and retract my “It’s always so depressing to see X!” head into my body cavity. Then and “I always saw X in New York, again, if I’m being honest, that was but I guess he just didn’t have it most of undergrad too. Perhaps we in him!” Of course, if people say aren’t so different. things like this perhaps a more The second part of my reaction pressing problem is that your parcame from a sudden feeling of un- ents chose to name you “X” and expected usefulness. Perhaps I can you have no clearly defined genhelp you all out in the coming year. der, but then again if that’s the case Because while you first-, second-, you probably would fit in pretty and third-years can read this and well in New York after all. chuckle smugly, you fourth-years As usual, I digress. Here are

MORE AWKWARD THAN SOME

some thoughts from me to you about what you may perhaps be facing when you leave the safe, warm, bosom of our dear University where everything is always okay all the time and nobody is ever troubled by matters of race or sexual violence.

First you’ll have to decide where you want to live. This depends on what you want to do career-wise.

For example, if you do computer science or engineering you’ll gravitate toward California or Seattle.

lovely this time of year.

Where you live depends in some small part upon what job you get. Ha ha! Did you see what I wrote there? “What job you get!”

Like you’re just going to get a job! I must now take a moment to clutch my sides and wipe tears of mirth from my eyes.

Anyway, the big things always work themselves out. Don’t spend too much time hung up on them.

Eventually you’ll live somewhere and do something and someone will give you money. Those immediate concerns aside, here are three things I have learned a yearand-change after graduation: 1. Wherever you Because while you first-, second- and third-years go, your friends are can read this and chuckle smugly, you fourth- going to be much further away than years have a foot in the grave, don’t you?” they are now, even if they are in the same city. U.Va. is such If you’re an artistic type, New York a lovely little insular community or Chicago might be more your where everyone is right next door speed. If you’re an English major, I to each other. Imagine that you live understand your parents’ house is in Lambeth and everybody you are

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s an alumnus, when I was A asked to write a piece for The Cavalier Daily, my reaction

BY CHAUNCEY LEE

LIKE WHAT YOU SEE? JOIN HUMOR! FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT HUMOR@CAVALIERDAILY.COM

interested in spending time with lives on JPA or even further. That’s what it’s like out here, folks. It’s cold, it’s dark and you are alone in an apartment complex surrounded by wolves, so get used to walking a lot and using public transit. Maybe sink some money into a nice wolf-beating cane.

2. You will probably end up spending time with people who are a different age than you. Assuming you get a job (hee hee!) you will come into regular contact with people as old as 40, perhaps even 50! Do not panic. Treat them as you would a kind drunken uncle and all will be well.

3. Don’t try to date who you’re dating now long distance. You’re gonna have to just trust me on this. There is nothing funny to say about this, except perhaps: to a certain person who may read this piece, and you know who you are, I hope you get lupus. That would be pretty funny.

Chris Bauer is a former Humor writer.

Thursday, December 3, 2015

11

A&E Vanessa Carlton discusses artistic evolution arts & entertainment

Carlton to perform in Charlottesville on “Liberman” tour

Maggie Snow Staff Writer

Known for her ever-popular hit, “A Thousand Miles,” Vanessa Carlton will perform live Dec. 12 at The Southern Café and Music Hall. The artist has entered into a new stage in her musical career, one that is focused on helping listeners relax in her music rather than on catchy lyrics or snappy beats. Arts & Entertainment had the opportunity to talk to Carlton about the evolution of her artistry and listeners’ responses to her new album, “Liberman.”

Arts & Entertainment: You graduated from the School of American Ballet, then changed your focus to music. Can you talk a little bit about this transition?

Vanessa Carlton: I started skipping ballet class to write music when I was 16. It was the beginning of the end of the path to become a professional balleri-

na. You can't skip classes.

A&E: What advice would you give to a young artist in the very early stages of their career?

VC: Take lessons.

Seek out fringe artists.

far?

VC: The shows have been great. The reception for “Liberman” has made everything feel easier. I so appreciate people accepting and s u p -

Courtesy Wikimedia

Vanessa Carlton will appear at The Southern this month to promote her recent album, “Liberman.”

Stretch out of your comfort zone. Look for a mentor. Any or all of this can be helpful.

A&E: How has the first half of the “Liberman” tour gone so

porting the direction I've chosen to take my career.

A&E: Will you be able to spend any time sightseeing before heading to North Carolina

the next day?

VC: We travel every single day. I try and hang a bit in each city we are in, but it can be tough. We are on the move.

A&E: What is it like balancing family life while on tour?

Are you able to speak with your husband and daughter often?

VC: Sid is only 10 months, but she did pretty good on the road. She started out with us for two weeks, and then my husband came out as well, once his shows were done. My husband and baby are now home in Nashville. We are figuring it out.

I don't want her to get too tired.

A&E: Do you listen to music while on tour? How do you decompress in the time you’re not performing?

VC: I dance almost every day. I do Tracy Anderson combinations off my laptop. It keeps me sane. I listen to lots of music but mostly [classical music radio station] WQXR streamed through my computer.

A&E: What is your favorite song on the radio right now?

VC: I love “Dunes” by Ala-

bama Shakes. I don't know if it gets played on the radio. Only a few stations in this country play great music. That's the truth.

A&E: How would you describe “Liberman” to an unseasoned listener? Which of the 10 songs from the album is your favorite to perform live?

VC: I want “Liberman” to feel like an escape from someone's day. It's supposed to exist as its own little sonic world. My favorite song to play live is “Take It Easy.”

A&E: Looking back on all five of your albums, do you think “Liberman” presents the best representation of your true musical style?

VC: Yes. I've been honing in on this sound for a while.

A&E: Could you describe how you would like listeners to feel when they leave one of your concerts?

VC: Understood and peaceful.

Canadian singer-songwriter Joshua Hyslop will start off the show. The doors will open at 6 p.m.

‘Spotlight’ boasts journalistic storyline Story of Catholic Church cover-up emphasizes news writing Charles Hancock Senior Writer

While many public interest stories captivate wide audiences, there is a need for the careful handling of the facts since getting some information wrong may compromise the integrity of the piece as a whole. The new release “Spotlight” highlights obstacles of investigative reporting — namely the challenge of finding concrete facts to unlock the story. The plot involves reporters from The Boston Globe’s Spotlight team investigating the Catholic Church’s cover-up of molestations, a narrative told with the commitment of a news writer. The movie is an ideal example of the investigative journalism subgenre, reminiscent of the Watergate drama “All the President’s Men.” In “Spotlight,” the action almost exclusively relates to the investigated events themselves, bringing them to life in a realistic, unflashy manner.

The audience watches as the Spotlight team builds their sources and case while the conspiracy balloons around them, growing from a local issue to a horrifying scandal that rattles the Church. The expansion of the

plot’s scope parallels other aspects of cinematography — “Spotlight” begins with claustrophobic imagery, and the audience can sense the movie’s progression as the reporters discover more leads. Commonly found in the investigative genre, the density of plot details can make it challenging to navigate, but the general trajectory is clear.

The flow of information also parallels the characters’ unpredictable journey, and powerful moments emerge with each startling revelation.

The characters are reporters and editors trying to do their job to the best of their ability, and while the characterization isn’t prominent — except for one outburst from an excellent Mark Ruffalo — each actor seems genuine.

While Ruffalo’s Michael Rezendes plays in the liveliest moments, Michael Keaton (as Robby Robinson) also stands out as a veteran leader, and his experienced background intensifies his character. Throughout the film, the Catholic Church looms over everything — its heavy presence felt in every scene.

“Spotlight” does not go for flashiness or over-dramatization. Rather, its strong commitment to the storyline, from the writing and directing to the ensemble, reinforces the importance of good journalism.

Courtesy Open Road Films

“Spotlight” portrays substance over style in its story of The Boston Globe’s investigation of a scandal involving the Catholic Church.

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