Single copies free Oct 26 - Nov 2, 2015 | Volume 50 | Issue 10
The student newspaper at USF St. Petersburg
A festival for the books
What are you
p. 8
p. 4 & 5
doing this Halloween?
USFSP professors make landmark archaeological discovery in Ethiopia
Courtesy of Elizabeth Southard
Above. The excavation crew in 2012 included Ethiopian natives and scientists from around the world.
Meet Bayira:
By Samantha Putterman Staff Reporter
Courtesy of Elizabeth Southard
Elizabeth Southard, an anthropology student who accompanied the Arthurs in Ethiopia conducts fieldwork.
They know he was about 5 feet tall, 30 to 50 years old, lactose intolerant, and well adapted to a low-oxygen environment 6,000 feet above sea level. When an archaeological team led by professors Kathryn and John Arthur of USF St. Petersburg found his remains in a cave in southern Ethiopia in June 2012, they named him Bayira (BI-ruh), which means “first born” in the African language of Gamo. But what they didn’t know until later, after study by geneticists, was that Bayira was 4,500 years old and held the first complete ancient African genome ever discovered. When the archaeological team published its findings in the journal
The first pure ancient African genome
Science earlier this month, the Arthurs found themselves in a global spotlight. The New York Times and an estimated 250 news outlets published stories about the Arthurs’ team and its work in finding a complete assemblage of DNA in an ancient African. “I have been here 20 years, and in my mind this serves as among the top one or two scientific discoveries of any faculty on our campus in that time,” said Jay Sokolovsky, chairman of the USFSP anthropology department. “This will put our program on the map, especially for students looking for a first-rate undergraduate program which stresses student participation in faculty research.” The Arthurs said they are proud that their work involves both scholars
from other countries and students from USFSP. “Ever y year we have gone (to Ethiopia) we’ve taken two students with us from our anthropology program, juniors and seniors,” said Kathryn, 49. “They’re working on a research project. This is not a field school, this is not study abroad. This is three months of intense field work.” “It gives them the opportunity to meet other scholars and to learn how they do their work – geologists, botanists, all kinds of things.” The Arthurs also take another student – their 12-year-old daughter, Hannah. “She started (going to Africa) when she was 3,” said John, 50. “She’s been six Continued on p.3
Oct 26 - Nov 2, 2015 | Volume 50 | Issue 10
News Briefs
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This is my City: St. Pete Stories
Welcoming diversity through community storytelling
MONDAY OCT. 26 Employee Recovery From Work by Dr. Charlotte Fritz
DAV 130 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. Dr. Fritz will discuss the psychological effects that happen when employees unwind after a day of work. Her talk will reference research findings. Dr. Fritz has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business, etc.
Multicultural Affairs Council Goes PINK
Harborwalk // 1 – 3 p.m. In light of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, MAC will be be handing out statistical information and encouraging everyone to get periodic breast exams done. Come on out in your favorite pink shirt and learn about how you can help.
Food for Thought Lecture – Food Culture Through the Lens USC Ballroom // 7 p.m. As part of a yearlong multimedia series, the photographer will present “Food Culture Through the Lens” and a Q&A session. She’s worked in 30 countries for National Geographic and led the photography for several cookbooks. Free. RSVP at www.usfsp.edu/foodforthought.
TUESDAY OCT. 27 Yoga @ Lunch
DAV 130 // noon – 1 p.m. The Wellness Center recently extended its Yoga @ Lunch program as per popular demand. No experience is required and all fitness levels are welcome to participate. Plan on an hour of rejuvenation, and remember to bring water and a mat.
THURSDAY OCT. 29 1st Annual International Folk Fair Vinoy Park
Presented by the St. Pete International Folkfest Society, this event will feature multicultural food, music, entertainment and activities for people of all ages to enjoy. This event runs until Sunday, Nov. 1. Student admission: $6. General admission: $10.
SATURDAY OCT. 31 World’s Largest Food Truck Rally 480 Bayshore Drive SE // 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Spend your Halloween downtown with a bite to eat and festive beverages. A portion of the proceeds will go to Community Action Stops Abuse (CASA). Tickets are $11.50 and free for children 14 and under.
Courtesy of Lauren Hensley
Actors at the “This is My City: St. Pete Stories” production. (From left to right) Ann Morrison, Elizabeth Bonni, Andrida Hosey, Bob Devin Jones and Erica Sutherlin.
By Lauren Hensley Staff Reporter Roaring conversations filled the Sunken Gardens ballroom, but gradually lowered as the house lights dimmed. Catherine Weaver sat up a little straighter in her chair as she focused her attention, and her cellphone camera, on the actors seated onstage. Weaver and fellow St. Petersburg residents Willie Rogers, Myrtle Williams, Marika Robinson and Katee Tully, had their life stories told by actors in the Oct. 13 production of “This is my City: St. Pete Stories.” The first actress to speak, Erica Sutherlin retold stories of juvenile
delinquency, desegregation, domestic abuse – and ultimately healing. Weaver, in particular, watched with a critical eye, one that was unmatched by the remainder of the audience. Those were her stories. The production was the fourth a nd f i na l i nst a l l ment of t he “Community Conversation” series, which was produced by the nonprofit organization, Your Real Stories, founded by Dr. Lillian Dunlap and Jaye Sheldon. “We gather the stories of real people so we can bring people together and talk about our differences and our diversity,” said Dr. Lillian Dunlap. “We get the conversation started, and that’s where the magic is. If
our stories can have an impact and change lives, that’s what it’s all about.” Sheldon said that she and Dunlap spent several hours interviewing each participant before compiling an eight-minute script that encapsulates the story of the person’s life. The series of scripts are then portrayed by local actors in front of a live audience. Each story shared overarching themes of perseverance and hope for the future. After all six stories were told, Dunlap and Sheldon invited the participants whose lives inspired the stories to stand beside the actors onstage. The audience stirred as Weaver, Rogers, Wi l lia ms,
Robinson and Tully rose from their seats. Most were unaware that the people who lived these stories were sitting amongst them. The house lights were raised and Dunlap and Sheldon split the audience into groups where they were encouraged to discuss the stories told. Weaver expressed to her group how she was pleased with the narrative, but wished the rendering of her story included more about the future and less about the past. She owns an art studio in the Midtown a rea of St. Petersbu rg c a l led Uniquely Original Arts, where she motivates women to find healing through artistic expression, just as she did. Clusters of conversation bursted around the room. People reflected on the performances and shared similar or contrasting experiences. Audience members were now fullfledged participants in the storytelling event. Mayor Rick Kriseman attended the event and said he believes the powerful impact of storytelling has the potential to change lives. Kriseman said he hopes events like these will help create a community where tolerance thrives and people care about one another. Kriseman’s story was retold in an installation of the production earlier in the summer.
Office of Multicultural Affairs oversees diverse promotes multiculturalism programs at USFSP Organization and inclusion on campus By Tamiracle Williams Crow’s Nest Contributor The Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) focuses on cultivating unity among student culture on the USF St. Petersburg campus. The organization’s mission is to affirm and celebrate the heritage of underrepresented students and develop appreciation through the exposure of different cultural backgrounds. “OMA is an office that provides diversity of cultural programs for the greater USFSP community,” said Erica Campbell, coordinator of the Multicultural Affairs Council (MAC). OMA plans events and activities throughout the year such as workshops and trainings. Work shop topics ra nge f rom microaggression to social identities,
and are facilitated during student a nd professiona l staff training week. Campbell’s goal is to have these programs open to the entire student body next year. “Safe Zone Ally Training” is one of the programs the organization hosts in collaboration with the Wellness Center. Since Fall 2013, Safe Zone has educated the public and taught leaders how to be supportive of the LGBTQ community. “It’s a great opportunity for student leaders and it raises a strong awareness of the community,” Campbell said OMA also oversees the “SPECTRUM Mentor Program,” partners transfer and first-year students with upperclassmen to help
navigate the campus and adjust to college life. “We go by the name ‘SPECTRUM’ because of the array of people and minorities that participate in the program,” said Cadin Small, an OMA student assistant. Sma ll said the program helps establish connections early, so students can decide if they want to be involved. OMA is a lso home to severa l organizations on campus such as the Black Student Association, Women’s Empowerment Club, PR IDE and t he Mu lticu ltura l Activities Council.
MAC is responsible for events like the Diwali Festival of Lights and Diversity Week. Another popular event sponsored by MAC is “Real Talk,” an hourlong discussion on hot button issues like women’s rights, education and violence against the LGBTQ community. Discussions usually take place once a month from noon - 1 p.m. Free lunch is provided to students and faculty. Although the organization strives to ser ve margina lized groups on campus, OMA is a place for everyone.
Oct 26 - Nov 2, 2015 | Volume 50 | Issue 10
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Continued from Front Cover
Drs. Kathryn and John Arthur make landmark archaeological discovery times, as soon as she could get her vaccines.” Kathryn knew what she wanted to do pretty early in life –essentially by middle school, when she took a history class on Egyptology and was fascinated. That’s when Africa came in. “My mom was studying Africa and African-American literature,” Kathryn said. “I was really interested in Africa, so she would give me books to read all the time. And a cohort of hers, an Afrocentric poet, told me a lot about Africa that I never knew – how amazing the people and the culture was.” From that point on, it became Kathryn’s goal to expose those cultures and help reveal how amazing she knew the place really was. John Arthur’s story is a bit different. A typical student, he didn’t know he was going to be archaeologist right away and tested a few different areas of study before finding it. “I started off as a marine biologist and then I switched to botany. Then I wandered around for a year
taking random classes, and then I wandered into a class on rural archaeology in the summer of 1985 and I fell in love with it,” John said. They met at the University of Texas during an archaeology project in downtown Austin in 1990 and married three years later. Both moved to Florida for higher education. John earned his doctorate at the University of Texas and Kathryn earned hers at the University of Florida. A job was offered to John at USFSP and the university indicated there was a chance a position could open for Kathryn. T h e y d o n’t r e g r e t t h e i r decision. “At USF St. Petersburg, we might be small but we have really good scholars here and a good support system,” said Kathryn. “They have these new researcher grants for young faculty when we first came here. It let’s you do a little fieldwork so you can create a baseline to build something up so you’re more competitive for the federal grants. And that was really great.” In 20 01, Kat hr y n beca me
t he f irst woma n to have a research project in Ethiopia. When she and John went back to Et hiopia i n 20 05, “we started by working with the community,” Kathryn said. “And that’s my part in the project, working with the communit y and learning about their histories. A nd one of t he places they brought me to were caves – places that protect people, shelter people. So, women, chi ld ren a nd elderly would go there during Courtesy of John and Kathryn Arthur periods of conflict. It was Bayira’s burial was found under a rock important historically.” cairn in the Mota Cave keeping the DNA When Kathryn first preserved in a cool setting. went to a place scientists call the “Mota cave,” she was astonished to see a dirt floor. colleague who is one of the leaders According to Kathryn, most caves on our project, and they excavated have rock floors with no potential it the next year.” for archaeological deposits. Due to Africa’s hot and humid “I thought it had great poten- weather, John said, many people tial,” she said. “ So I told John assume ancient DNA cannot be and Matthew Curtis, our other found in the area. However, the
Sean LeRoux | Crow’s Nest
Kate Tiedemann College of Business One year after the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Kate Tiedemann College of Business, construction is well underway. The building, located on Third Street South, will be 68,000 square feet and four stories high.
The college of business took on Tiedema n n’s na me a f ter her record-breaking $10 million donation last year, the largest single gift the university has ever received. The building, which was designed by Harvard Jolly Architecture and funded by the Florida Legislature, is expected to open in August 2016.
Courtesy of Harvard Jolly Architecture
Mota cave is 6,000 feet above ground, providing a cool atmosphere that helped preserve Bayira’s DNA. Bayira was buried “under a rock cairn” and the DNA stayed preserved. They took the remains to the National Museum in Ethiopia and brought Jay Stock from Cambridge University, a bioarcheologist who studies skeletal remains, the following year to take a look. “He talked to some of the geneticists and they said, ‘Try to get the petrous bone because we think that’s the best place to get DNA,’” John said. “So we asked the Ethiopian government and they granted us permission. They were able to get the DNA from the petrous bone, which is the ear bone, one of the densest bones in the body. So, that was a new discovery, too. It showed that it’s really the best place to look for ancient DNA.” Stock took it back to Cambridge and the DNA extraction began. Bayira’s remains contained a pure ancient African genome, as opposed to a Eurasian mixture. According to the Arthurs, there is no scientific evidence of what is widely thought of as a massive migration from Eurasia into Africa. “Societies within the Mediterranean and Red Sea area – Egypt, Ethiopia, northeast Africa and the Near East–actually interacted over time. Through trade, shared culture and even marriage – which is the most likely way this Eurasian genome can be found in modern African populations. For the USFSP students who have accompanied the Arthurs, the experience was exhilarating and rewarding, said Elizabeth Southard, who was with them in the summer of 2012. “As a college student you should experience things completely foreign to you, because it is how you grow and learn things about yourself and the world. The classroom environment can only go so far, actually going out into the world and applying what you have learned is what it is all about and there isn’t a better opportunity than to study abroad with amazing USFSP professors,” she said. The Arthurs said the Ethiopian experience was a culture shock for their students. Ethiopia was never really colonized, so seeing white Americans walking around was quite unusual. “I’ll change a tire and have 40 people staring at me,” said John. “I’ve gotten used to it, but the students have to adjust when they first get there.”
Oct 26 - Nov 2, 2015 | Volume 50 | Issue 10
‘Marks Made’ opens in the Museum of Fine Arts
The new exhibition showcases female print artists from the 1960s to now A wicked week of Halloween
Have a witchin’ good time with these events THE ROOM Oct. 27
USC Ballrooms // 8 - 11 p.m. Free, all ages. The Harborside Activities Board proves, once again, that it can bring a good scare to campus. Get your spook on earlier in the week in preparation for a frightful Halloween weekend without having to go the distance.
THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW Oct. 30
Jannus Live // 8 p.m. Free, all ages. Dress up as your favorite cult classic character and prepare to dance along to the “Time Warp” as the venue is showing the film on a large screen onstage.
NOVAWEEN 9 Oct. 30
Nova 535 // 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. $15 online $20 door, 21+ Celebrate Novaween’s ninth annual Halloween party at venue Nova 535 in downtown St. Petersburg, hosted by Gypsy Allure. Entertainment from aerialists, gogo dancers, a tarot card reader and more. Tickets include free valet parking.
PSYCH-O-WEEN Oct. 30
The Bends // 9:30 p.m. Free. 21+ The downtown bar will host its first Psych-O-Ween costume party, featuring music from local bands Archaic Interest, Sonic Graffiti and Me Chinese.
MONSTER MASH PARTY Oct. 31
Local 662 // 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. Free (money for drinks), all ages. This party promises a “dark and evil” experience which includes a clown show, costume contest and live bands. The bar will be stocked with creepy cocktails and the walls lined with horror decor.
Continued on p. 5 Side Panel
By Devin Rodriguez Staff Reporter Does a woman need to be naked to get into the Metropolitan Museum? This question was posed by the Guerrilla Girls, an anonymous group of female avengers that speak out against the underrepresentation of women in the art world. Their activist artwork is being shown in the Museum of Fine Arts, and in prints made by female artists from the 1960s to today. The exhibit “Marks Made: Prints by American Women Artists from the 1960s to the Present” features prominent artists throughout the past 55 years. The exhibition will run until Jan. 24. Tickets are $10 for students and $17 for adults. The Guerilla Girls are known for wearing gorilla masks and taking pseudonyms of late influent ia l fema le a r t ist s. One of the founding members, Käthe Kollwitz, whose name is derived from a German expressionist artist, entered a packed auditorium at the museum and proceeded to throw bananas into the crowd waiting to hear her speak. In front of a giant projector, Kollwitz discussed how underrepresented female artists were only
With over 90 prints on display, nearly all styles of t he pr i nt ma k i ng process are repres ente d . Ma ny of the artists shown are prominent figures throughout the abstract and expressionist print movem e nt . O n e s u c h artist is Pat Steir, who was born in Newark, New Jersey, in 1938. She received her Bachelor of Fine Ar ts at t he Prat t Inst it ute i n New York. T he Pe a c o c k Waterfall, a color silkscreen on paper, is presented in the ex h ibit ion. Stei r ut i l i z es water a s Known for wearing gorilla masks, the Guerrilla Girls a theme throughare an anonymous group of female activists that out her work . In fight sexism and racism in the art world. this specific piece after choosing the able to get their work shown in color scheme she allowed gravity to major museums if they were dead finish the print. or nude. “The way that the red and the This is still a real problem, blue vibrate when they touch each she said, and exhibits like “Marks other – that to me explains the Made” help bring awareness. whole universe,” Steir said.
Two museu m suppor ters, Martha and Jim Sweeney, helped fund and populate the art exhibit. The Sweeneys have been dedicated to help increase the awareness of female artists throughout the printmaking movement. In celebration of the exhibition, the MFA is holding two special movie showings in December. Both Woman of the Year (1942) and Big Eyes (2014) will be shown on Dec. 3 and Dec. 17. Printmaking courses in the department of verbal and visual arts are available at USF St. Petersburg where students learn all the print styles showcased in the exhibition and also work closely with professional artists to create their artistic imaginings. A few techniques studied through the program include cyanotypes, linoleum prints and copper etchings. “I’m really enjoying this program,” says junior Charlie Harris. “As a professional photographer, taking a printmaking course really helps me combine two of my passions: Photography and art.”
Locals Only: A celebration of independent businesses
St. Pete residents savor the flavor at Localicious By Sean LeRoux Staff Reporter Much like the “Keep Austin Weird” campaign, “Keep Saint Petersburg Local” is the self-proclaimed voice of the city’s locallyowned independent businesses. Olga Bof, who founded the organization in 2012, said she is working to build a thriving local economy and unique community by nurturing business connections and raising awareness of the importance of buying local. Local businesses “make the city a destination,” Bof said, and help the St. Petersburg economy. “Money stays here when you support those businesses.” Localicious returned for its second annual celebration from Oct. 16-25. The festival, sponsored by Rollin’ Oats Market and Cafe, highlighted local restaurants, food trucks, breweries, distilleries and markets. Local breweries offered special brews, such as Green Bench Brewing Company, which offered a preview of its new mead and cider line – Rooftop Cider. The cider is
brewed with a hint of orange blossom honey, taken from the brewery’s rooftop beehive. Speaking of bees, Localicious offered workshops for sustainable living such as beekeeping and raising backyard chickens as well as classes for home-canning and pickling, and home-brewing beer and kombucha. The 3rd Friday Food Truck Rally kicked off the festival on Oct. 16. Presented by the Gulf to Bay Food Truck Association, the rally took place at the Port of St. Petersburg, next to Albert Whitted Airport. The Hideaway Cafe created a specia l menu to honor the weeklong festival, bringing together local food, drinks and music in celebration of everything St. Petersburg. The food and drink festival, “In the Dip,” took place in the field across from the historic Manhattan Casino on 22nd Street S. The event featured live music and entertainment, artisanal food and drink vendors, and free educational workshops. Attendees could also tour the African-American Heritage Trail and visit the Dr. Carter G.
Wo od s on A f r ic a n A mer ic a n Museum’s open house. Compared to last year, the festival saw massive growth. With the continued influx of artisanal markets, foods and
Sean LeRoux | The Crow’s Nest
Green Bench Brewing Company’s Rooftop Cider, photographed right, is a new brew featured throughout the week of Localicious, it is brewed with a hint of orange blossom honey from the brewery’s rooftop beehive. The owners plan to have at least two ciders or meads on tap at all times, once production increases.
breweries, Localicious organizers may have a hard time squeezing next year’s festivities into the standard weeklong event.
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The Local 662 hosts an exciting all ages event this Halloween
No bones about it: Zombie bands, demented clowns and live tunes help locals celebrate this spooky time of year.
by Angelina Bruno Staff Reporter
Courtesy of Local 662
20 Penny Circus will perform at the Local 662 in downtown St. Petersburg on Halloween night.
Sword swallowing clowns, four live bands and “horror limbo” are all a part of the Halloween Monster Mash, a Halloween party at the Local 662 in downtown St. Petersburg that encourages patrons to get creepy. The event will be held on Oct. 31, from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m., and has a wide variety of spooky tricks and treats to offer guests. The Monster Mash’s biggest show, 20 Penny Circus, is recommended for mature audience. The two-part act performs demented magic tricks and stunts intended to scare and awe. Tyler Sutter and Carl Skenes h ave p er for me d t hei r t r ic k s together for six years, rocking black and white clown makeup while wearing pressed suits.
Together, they make 20 Penny Circus, and have a growing fanbase. Two months ago, they performed a sold out show at the Tampa Improv. Nick Marcisin, 29, owner of Night of the Living Sound productions, and manager at the Local 662, said 20 Penny Circus was not an easy group to book. “They are very, very popular. Back in the day, they were local, and performed for chump change. Not anymore,” he said. In addition to the spooky circus, the Local 662 will host four local bands. Bar patrons can jam to music by Buck-O-Weens, Nerds Raging, the Funeral Dazies, and Twisty Chris and the Puddin’ Packs. The Funera l Dazies are a “zombie band” with the motto: “Rock ’n’ roll for zombies by zombies since 2007.” These bands are notorious for dressing up, even
when it isn’t a holiday, and Marcisin ensures they will be decked out for Halloween. Aside from live performances, the venue will feature a costume contest. Attendees are encouraged to dress up. Best getup wins $100 cash and a shiny trophy. The competition will continue with “horror limbo,” the classic bend-your-back-game, but with a spooky feel. Participants can test how low they can go, and winners score gift cards to local eateries, like Fortunato’s Pizzeria and Boulevard Burgers. Marcisin has done many shows at the Local 662, working with owner Charles Marco, but this show marks a new path for Marcisin. “This show is the first to be produced under the name Night of the Living Sounds Productions,” said Marcisin. “I’ve done events before, like the Green Jello show, but I want people to see the show and say ‘Oh yeah, that’s Nick.’” Marcisin foresees an exciting show and great turnout for his kickoff Halloween extravaganza on Oct. 31. “I know we have the best event music-wise,” he said. “And with the (20 Penny) circus, I’m sure some people will be stumbling in saying, ‘Why the hell weren’t we here all night?’”
Halloween Monster Mash The Local 662 662 Central Ave. Oct. 31 from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. $10 at the door which covers drinks
Oct 26 - Nov 2, 2015 | Volume 50 | Issue 10
Halloween Events Continued from p. 4
MAZE OF HORROR EXPERIENCE: ZOMBIE QUARANTINE EDITION Now through Oct. 31
2350 34th St. N // 7-11 p.m. $10 Looking for something new yet terrifying this Halloween? Come out to this “blood-chilling” event, and you might want to bring a friend to latch on to.
CHAMBER OF TERROR Oct. 29 - 30
4535 Dale Mabry Hwy. // 7:30 11:30 p.m. Admission: $10 Speed Pass: $15 If you can handle psychotic clowns and twisted dolls, drive over to Tampa’s “most extreme haunt” for 10 years running. Enter the “Last Laugh Toy Co.,” a fictional abandoned toy factory, at your own risk. This event is not suited for clownfearing individuals.
HELLVIEW CEMETERY Oct. 30 - 31
510 49th Ave. N // 7 - 10 p.m. Free, all ages. Since 1996, the Hellview Cemetery has provided Bay area locals with a unique Halloween experience created by Mark Muncy. There is a more mild Scooby Doo option for youngsters and the easily frightened.
YELLOWEEN MASQUERADE BALL Oct. 31
Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort $60 This will mark the very first Halloween party hosted by the legendary 90-year-old (and apparently haunted) Vinoy Renaissance Resort in downtown St. Petersburg. Come dressed in your best costume, as prizes will be awarded for best female, male, couple and group costume design. If you can afford the expense, bask in the haunted decor, spooky visual effects and endless drinks.
Oct 26 - Nov 2, 2015 | Volume 50 | Issue 10
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The anatomy of advertising
Men are also represented with idealistic standards in advertising, granted, but not nearly to the extent women are. It is unacceptable to objectify either gender, but at this present moment in time, women certainly bear the brunt of it. In contrast to the portrayal
By Moriah Parrish Crow’s Nest Contributor
Editor-in-chief
SAMANTHA PUTTERMAN
Managing Editor
CAITLIN ASHWORTH
Creative Director
ERIN MORGAN
News editor
EMILY TINTI
News assistant
JEFFREY ZANKER
Arts & Life Editor
ANGELINA BRUNO
Arts & Life assistant Editor
JULIA MARCUZZO
Staff Reporter
LAUREN HENSLEY
Photo editor
SEAN LE ROUX
Advertising manager
JESSICA JAGODZINSKI
Web Manager
LIZ HOWARD
Distribution Manager
DENNIS GEYER
adviser
ROB HOOKER
Mission Statement: The Crow’s Nest is committed to providing its readers with news relevant to the University of South Florida St. Petersburg and its surrounding comm unity. The Crow’s Nest abides by the highest ethical standards and focuses on stories that help readers make informed decisions on current issues. We take seriously the public’s trust in our news reporting and strive to uphold the highest standards of reporting as defined by the Society of Professional Journalists. The views expressed—both written and graphic—in the opinion section of The Crow’s Nest do not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial board. Submit letters to the editor to crowsnesteditor@gmail.com. The Crow’s Nest reserves the right to edit these pieces for style and length. If a letter is not meant for publication, please mark it as such. All submissions must include the author’s name, day time phone number, and e-mail address. The Crow’s Nest is provided free by the Activities & Services Fee, and advertising. The Crow’s Nest neither endorses nor takes responsibility for any claims made by our advertisers. Because of high production costs, members of the USFSP community are permitted one copy per issue. Where available, additional copies may be purchased for 10 cents each by contacting the newspaper’s editor in chief or managing editor. Newspaper theft is a crime. Those who violate the single copy rule may be subject to civil and criminal prosecution and/or subject to university discipline. The Crow’s Nest office is located at: Student Life Center 2400, University of South Florida St. Petersburg 140 Seventh Ave. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33701 (727) 873-4113 Press run: 1,000 Copyright 2014 St. Petersburg, FL
The Crow’s Nest is printed by: Web Offset Printing 12198 44th Street North Clearwater, Florida 33762
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“Why is that woma n wea ring that on the street corner? She’s on ly i n a bikini, sunglasses and a straw hat. Holding a sign. What does it say? Is she protesting? She’s so still…Oh my God! It’s a mannequin advertising a sale. A sale for…mattresses?! What?” These were my thoughts as I came to a stop at an intersection abutting a small mattress shop on Fourth Street N. Then the anger started as I realized their little ploy had worked. I looked. I knew about the sale. The busty mannequin with the Mona Lisa smile turned my head to their store. It’s the 21st century and everyone knows: Sex sells. But which sex? What does a mostly naked emulation of a woman’s body have to do with mattresses? Nothing. But I’m willing to bet an oversized Ken doll wouldn’t have drawn as many stares. That’s what the shop owners are banking on, because that’s the norm in our society. Wo m e n ’s b o d i e s h a v e been idealized to the point of near-impossibility. Magazine covers flaunt women who have been re-touched, cinched
The
Famous pin-up model from the 1950s, Bettie Page was known for her provocative photographs and films, sometimes using her iconic sex appeal for advertisements.
in, busts enhanced, made blemish-free, given a healthy glow, had their hair made thicker, their lips poutier, their arms toned up, their bums round but their thighs lean. Their eyes look like they’ve never lost a bit of sleep and they are shadowed to just the right level of demure, or maybe just flat-out enlarged, à la Disney princess. These pictures of women, who don’t actually exist, call to us from billboards and commercials, movie posters and grocery store waiting lines. They bombard us with their unattainable “beauty,” daring us to strive for their ideals or purchase a product their hourglass silhouette endorsed.
of men, just smiling faces with a bangin’ bod isn’t always enough to really get the product out there. Women’s bodies are often deconstructed to just their sexy parts in order to get the public’s attention. Sometimes, it’s just close-ups of cleavage, curvy legs or a jawline with a tongue poking out of freshlypainted lips coquettishly. I’ll leave it to others better educated in psychology than me to decipher the “why.” But suffice it to say, we all look. Men and women. And we all buy. My guess is that, at this point, we’re indoctrinated to do just that. If you’re told from childhood that, “This is sexy, this is exciting, this
gets your blood flowing, this is what everyone wants to be,” the phrases become internalized, automatic, thoughtless —a part of our culture. I want it to stop. Those images, manipulated though they are, come from a source: Women. Real women, who think, laugh, cry, get sick, have tempers, have careers, have hopes, dreams, and experiences unique to themselves. They are humans. Not objects to be perfected and placed beside other objects as if there were any comparison. This is my body and my human experience. It turns my stomach to see other women reduced to mere things, because even if I’m not the one being photographed, what’s to stop someone from looking at me like that? Women need to take a stand, as a nation, and prove to the advertisers that this is unacceptable. Boycott businesses until they prove the value of their product on its own merit. Stop buying things because a corporation has put together a crack team of photoshop minions. A tall order, I understand, given the pervasiveness of this ill within our society. However, if we would really all, as a gender, decide we deserve better representation, the turnaround would be swift. We represent immense purchasing power. All I’m asking is to give it some thought Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a mannequin to topple. Moriah Parrish is a senior majoring in biology. She can be reached at parrishm@mail.usf.edu
Bernie Sanders & Populists: Donald Trump
By Duncan Rodman Crow’s Nest Contributor
Sen. Bernie Sa nders, I-V T., and Republican front-runner Dona ld Tr u mp couldn’t be more fundamentally different. But somehow they have both obtained that pesky yet alluring populist label. How could two political polar opposites both serve as populist candidates in the same election? It’s because the country is bitterly divided. Trump and Sanders both represent the will of the common people. And that’s a problem. They appeal to the two opposing fringes of the political spectrum. Sanders represents the disenchanted Left. Trump represents the indignant Right.
In most cases, Bernie Sanders is the “Anti-Trump.” But these two have some fundamental views in common. In these sparse but significant similarities, we find a few traces of a uniquely bipartisan American consciousness. Both candidates appeal to the concerns of the lower and middle class, low wages, dismal job prospects and the increasingly agonizing financial pinch felt by the 99 percent. But the Trump proletariat has a vastly different ideology about the cause of the problem. His followers blame China, immigrants and the incompetency of the federal government. The Sanders camp blames the wealthy and the politicians beholden to them. Income inequality is their biggest concern, and without drastic progressive change, the U.S will become a dystopian oligarchy—one behemoth, sprawling
ghetto dotted with a few gorgeous gated communities. A more surprising similarity between the two unlikely political rock stars is that they both share a disdain for the farce that is campaign finance law. Sanders has always been a proponent of campaign finance reform. After the McCain-Feingold Act was effectively upended by Citizens United v. FEC, he has remained one of the most vocal opponents to the corrosive influence of money in politics. Trump agrees. In a surprising announcement, and to the delight of progressives all over the country, Trump just announced that he is disavowing all super PAC money made in his name. “I am self-funding my campaign and therefore I will not be controlled by the donors, special interests and lobbyists who have corrupted our politics and
politicians for far too long,” Trump said in a campaign statement last week. “I have disavowed all super PAC’s, requested the return of all donations made to said PAC’s, and I am calling on all presidential candidates to do the same.” It turns out that Donald Trump may be the only willing and able messenger who can explain this issue to GOP voters—an unlikely ally among Democrats, who have been suffering from fundraising struggles caused by that controversial 2010 Supreme Court decision. Sanders and Trump also share surprisingly similar views on taxation. They both support an increase in income taxes for top earners, although Sanders wants a far more progressive rate. The sizeable populist appeal of these candidates is grounded in the
Continued on p. 7
Oct 26 - Nov 2, 2015 | Volume 50 | Issue 10
crowsneststpete.com
Bulls winning streak hits three misc. By David Stoner Crow’s Nest Contributor
For the first time in four years, t he USF fo otball team has won three games i n a r o w. L a s t S a t u r d a y, t h e Bulls won 38-14 against the Southern Methodist University Mustangs at Raymond James Stadium.
Crossword
Quarterback Quinton Flowers provided the excitement with a herculean rushing performance, setting a USF quarterback-record of 201 yards. The win also advanced the team to a 4-3 record, only two wins away from bowl eligibility. The Bulls needed the performance from Flowers, as leading rusher Marlon Mack was on the sidelines with a tight hamstring as the rest of the offense struggled. The Bulls receivers dropped a lot
of easily catchable passes and the running backs had trouble finding open running lanes. In spite of a one-dimensional offense, the game was entertaining from multiple big plays on both offense and defense. With four forced turnovers and consistent pressure on the Mustang’s quarterback, the defense put up another strong showing. SM U ’s of fense had t rouble getting a rhythm started. The game began with a sack and a
recovered fumble by the Bulls on the Mustang’s first possession of the game, which set the tone for the entire team. Unfor tunately, t he tea m’s intensity was not matched by the home crowd. The student section was only about a third full. Our Bu l ls deser ve bet ter. Coach Taggart has shaped a great team on the field and the season is shaping up to be the best in a while. As Coach would say “Get on the bus.” The Bulls have two away games coming up. On Halloween
at noon, the team will travel to the United States Naval Academy to take on the Midshipmen and their vaunted triple option offense, and then the East Carolina Pirates the following week on Nov. 7. The next home game is Nov. 14 against the undefeated Temple Owls. Student tickets are free. David Stoner is a junior majoring in journalism and media studies. He can be reached at stonerd1@mail. usf.edu
Populism 2016 continued
bitter reality that is the plight of the American worker. Discontent is rising because wages are stagnating, and the perception of American exceptionalism has withered away into a shell of distrusting, unhappy and overworked citizens. It’s a lazy comparison, though—likening the real estate/casino mogul with the esteemed senator from Vermont. Bernie Sanders has a substantial congressional voting record. Donald Trump has no voting record. Sanders is running on his ideas as his campaign platform. Trump is mostly running on his personality. The reason that these two long shot, aspiring nominees are polling so well can be summed up in one word: Authenticity. The American people want a candidate who means what they say and says what they think—whether it is a repugnant, blanket statement from a multi-billionaire who disparages Mexicans, or a declaration of political revolution from a politician who intentionally alienates the wealthiest and most powerful people in the country. In this election, the voters crave genuineness. And that’s one more thing that Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump have in common. Duncan Rodman is a senior majoring in mass communications. He can be reached at duncanrodman@mail.usf.edu
Oct 26 - Nov 2, 2015 | Volume 50 | Issue 10
crowsneststpete.com
Avid readers and writers come together in celebration of books Authors Judy Blume, Ann Dunwoody, By Emily Tinti Staff Reporter
A rou nd 11 a.m. on Saturday, hu nd red s of fa ns stood in a line that st retched out side USF St. Petersburg’s Student Life Center, each with a fresh new book in hand, waiting to meet author Judy Blume. The 23rd Annual Tampa Bay Times Festival of Reading once again brought together avid readers, writers and more than 50 renowned authors of all genres to the USFSP campus and Poynter Institute for Media Studies. Blume, beloved author of 28 bestselling books, headlined the festival as part of her book tour for her new novel, “In the Unlikely Event.” Emily Tinti | The Crow’s Nest
The 23rd Annual Tampa Bay Times Festival of Reading garnered crowds of readers, writers and over 50 published authors to the USF St. Petersburg campus.
Attention USFSP students
Do you love beer?
The public was invited to sit in on an interview conducted by contemporary fiction author Lisa Unger in the USC Ballroom. Her books have collectively sold over 85 million copies and have drawn a fanbase of cross-generational admirers. Though her new book is geared toward adult readers, Blume recognized that many of the adults in the crowd grew up reading her novels. “I am your childhood,” Blume said with a smile before the interview began. Unger, a long t i me fa n of Blume’s work, said she had been preparing for the event in her own “Judy Blumiverse,” and let the author do most of the talking. Blume said the idea to write “In the Unlikely Event” originated at the 2009 Key West Literary Seminar. At the seminar, she listened to an up-and-coming author discuss the inspiration behind her
3 Daughters Brewing is hosting a focus test to get feedback on the craft beer industry and marketing plans. Participants (ages 21-29 only) will taste test beer and share their opinion. Each participant will receive a $10 gift card and food will be provided.
book –stories her mother told her from growing up in 1950s Cuba. Blume wouldn’t reveal the author’s book or name, just adding, “she’s very famous now.” (We think it’s Rachel Kushner). By the end of the seminar, Blume said she remembered she had her own 1950s story to tell – one that she had never told before. In the early ’50s, and in the span of just 58 days, three airplanes crashed in Blume’s hometown of Elizabeth, New Jersey, killing over 100 people and shocking the community. Blume spent five years researching the tragedies, unearthing old newspaper articles and connecting with people she grew up with so she could finally tell the story. Veteran elementary school teacher Kristi Theurer was elated to have the opportunity to meet her literary idol. As a fan of Blume’s work in her childhood, Theurer has continued to share that love with her students. “I use it to inspire my fourth graders and instill a love of reading,” said Theurer. “Even after reading (the Fudge series) 30 times, it never gets old. Each time, you are experiencing it through new eyes and see the excitement they have for the books.” Although Bume did draw in a large crowd, she wasn’t the only author garnering eager fans. Roy Peter Clark, teacher and best-selling author of writing and journalism books, held a talk down the road from USFSP in the Poynter Institute for Media Studies amphitheater. But Clark is no stranger to the institution. Clark has taught writing at the Poynter Institute since 1979, and has served as dean, vice president, senior scholar and member of the board of trustees. He is the founder of the National Writers Workshop, and has appeared on radio and television talk shows around the country to speak about issues in writing such as ethical journalism. His public appearance was prompted by his books “Help! For Writers and How to Write Short: Word Craft for Fast Times,” but
Roy Peter Clark and more, draw large crowds to the 23rd Annual Times Festival of Reading
Courtesy of Devin Rodriguez
Barnes and Noble was a primary vendor selling books written by authors featured at the Times Festival of Reading.
Courtesy of Devin Rodriguez
A crowd of over 300 people attended the PolitiFact live panel discussion.
Clark called the session “Writing with Roy Peter Clark: Twerks and Quirks from his Greatest Works.” The event lineup also featured Pulitzer Prize-winning journalists: Lane DeGregory, a Tampa Bay Times feature writer, and Anne Hull, a reporter for the Washington Post. The two presented the antholog y “Newswomen: 25 Years of Front-Page Journalism” at the Poynter Institute, where Hull serves as a trustee. DeGregory has taught at USFSP and at journalism conferences and newsrooms around the country. Amy Hill Hearth, a traditionally non-fiction author, was joined by 140 people at a session based on the sequel of her debut fiction
piece, “Miss Dreamsville and the Lost Heiress of Collier County: A Novel.” On her Facebook page, Hearth expressed her admiration for the festival. “Tampa area people, you are so lucky to have the Tampa Bay Times as your local newspaper. Not many daily newspapers still have a fulltime book reviewer, not to mention an annual Festival of Reading, which attracts authors from all over the U.S.A. Thank you, Tampa Bay Times, for your support of books and authors.”
To register, email Fiona Potter: fiona@fionapotter.com Thursday, Oct. 29 6-7:30 p.m. 3 Daughters Brewing 222 22nd St. S