Georgetown College’s Student–Run Newspaper
November 28, 2018
Volume CXXXVIII Issue 21
Black Friday and Cyber Monday pull in record breaking earnings By DEMETRIUS HARRISON
News Editor As the years go by, Black Friday slowly drifts from its original concept. Sales begin to spark days and days earlier, transforming into a nearly week-long extravaganza. According to a report from Adobe Analytics, online sales for Black Friday rose 23.6 percent from last year. In total, Black Friday earned $6.22 billion in online sales. The report also found this was the first day in history to see more than $2 billion in sales placed on smartphones rather than on a desktop. This means that the Adobe Analytics group found approximately 33.5 percent of e-commerce sales for Black Friday came from mobile devices. In 2017, a slightly lower 29.1 percent of sales came from mobile devices. Taylor Schreiner, director of Adobe Digital Insights, released a statement saying, “Retailers have done their part to build better mobile experiences for consumers and turning nearly 10 percent more smartphone visitors into buyers this Black Friday versus last.” Target, Kohl’s and
Inside
this issue
Walmart are a few companies that have offered a “click-andcollect” order option, aiding in the rise in online sales. Click-and-collect is a buy online and pick up in-store option. The logic behind this method of purchase is that once customers arrive to collect their prepaid items, they will hopefully buy more. Adobe reported that for the first time, online prices that Thanksgiving Day were as low as on Black Friday. This lured people to shop online rather than driving to malls, stores and shopping centers. Adobe received reports that traffic at many shopping malls Friday was lighter than in previous years. Instead, more consumers turned to their phones to grab discounted items. Furthermore, the Cyber Monday sales broke a record with $7.9 billion spent online. In total, the two holiday season mega discount days reeled in $14.12 billion. That’s more money than companies like Dropbox and Pinterest are worth. Amazon has reported that Black Friday and Cyber
Monday were the biggest shopping days in its history. Although Amazon has chosen not to release numerical figures regarding earnings, in a Nov. 26 press release, Amazon reported Cyber Monday was “the single biggest shopping day in the company’s history with the most products ordered worldwide.” Amazon also reported the Thanksgiving to Cyber Monday period, which they referred to as the “Turkey 5,” broke company records for worldwide sales. They reported “millions” of more products sold than in the same Turkey 5 period last year. Amazon CEO Jeff Wilke released a statement, “Black Friday and Cyber Monday continue to break records on Amazon year-over-year, which tells us that customers love shopping for deals to kick off the holiday shopping season.” Consumers have also been attracted to major sales at other retailers such as Walmart. The shopping supercenter sold out of 65” Samsung Smart TVs that were advertised as $552 off, as well as Google Home devices $80 off. Video
consoles also saw significant sales. The 1TB Xbox One was on sale for $100 off at Walmart, as well as its accessories being $10-$20 off. Apple is extending its Cyber Monday sale, with the MacBook Pro being $550 on sale as well as the Apple iPad marked down to $250. High end department store John Lewis & Partners reported its highest sales in Black Friday week. The department store chain said their sales were up 7.7% compared to the same week in 2017. Their fashion and beauty department had a 13.1% hike in sales. John Lewis noted their super-luxury Creed Aventus perfume, $170 per 50ml bottle, as a big seller as it was discounted to $115.50. Their electrical and homeware sales were up nearly 6%, as well. The department store sold out of Apple Airpods and smart speakers such as the Amazon Echo Dot and the Google Home Mini. Target released a statement that their TVs, iPads and Apple Watches were “selling well, spurred by early Black Friday deals.”
They also sold more gaming consoles than usual due to the sales. Target CEO Brian Cornell fell short of their projected expectation in Quarter three of the year; however, Cornell released a statement saying, “We’re right where we expected to be and we’re set up well for a very strong holiday season.” Kohl’s CEO Michelle Gass told CNBC that they were selling “60 instant pots and 40 Fitbit devices per minute on our website.” Several companies have decided to prolong deals throughout the week in honor of Cyber Monday success: Walmart and Target included. Redbubble is offering 25% off of products as well throughout the week. To stay current with the updated Cyber Monday earnings after this week’s extended sales are over, visit https:// news.adobe.com. Adobe Analytics has reported online sales are exceeding their calculated expectations. However, as sales are extended, consumers continue to purchase goods, extending the record breaking holiday sale season’s earnings.
NASA’s InSight lands & photographs Mars page 2
Students travel to Chicago for Model UN page 6
Giving Tuesday hosted by Georgetown page 7
Hank Greene’s debut novel is remarkable page 8
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What’s up, Hollwood? Compiled by Demetrius Harrison Kim Kardashian reveals she was high on Ecstasy when filmed in adult film with singer Ray J Tekashi 6ix9ine pleads not guilty in racketeering case Stephen Curry involved in a multi-car crash, everyone reportedly uninjured Kanye West donates $500,000 to California Camp Fire relief Michelle Obama’s memoir “Becoming” becomes 2018’s fastest selling book Jason DeRulo joins Taylor Swift in casting for “Cats” musical Beyonce set to star in the 2019 remake of “Lion King” Trump theatens to end GM electric-car subsidies Meek Mill demands improved prisoner rights in New York Times Op-Ed Mariah Carey releases 15th studio album “Caution,” announces world tour starting February 2019
News
The Georgetonian
NASA’s InSight captures images from Mars By SIMON BURGESS Staff Writer
After spending seven consecutive months in transit NASA’s latest Mars probe codenamed InSight touched down on the surface of Earth’s brother planet. For the eighth time in human history, a lander has successfully survived the entry process and impact on the red planet. Unlike our moon, it is only optimal to send a probe to Mars every two years, and specifically at the point in time it will reach where Mars will be when we are closest to it in the orbit of the sun (well, 33.9 million miles is close by space standards). However, InSight did not and spent six months traveling 300 million miles to Mars. SOURCE: CNN According to NASA AdministraAbove is a photograph of NASA’s probe to Mars: Insight, which sent the official “beep” tor Jim Bridenstine, the InSight probe signal to NASA that it was alive and in fine working condition on Mars. is the first sort of course correction in NASA’s space aspirations. brief scare when the probe surface tem- systems to collect different data-points The probe is designed to collect perature caused a loss in radio contact, rather than specializing on a deep scan interior data of Mars and to prepare for the InSight probe sent a signal back to of a single factor. While the miniature an eventual trip to the Red Planet, that earth around 3 p.m., ET on 11/26/2018. MarCO satellites had completed their is, after NASA is fully prepared, with InSight landed in the Elysium goal, their successful mission proves another moon mission as training. Planitia, close to the Martian equator, that smaller probes can be used in the InSight (Interior Exploration using about 600 kilometers from the landing future with the same level of data collection. Seismic Investigations, Geodesy and site of the Curiosity probe. It will take about three months for Heat Transport) towed two small satCuriosity has only traveled about ellites jointly called MarCO, which 12. miles as of last September since the the equipment to be fully deployed and relayed data during the entry process, rover landed in 2012. Saying this, there enabled before the ground experimenwhich were abandoned in the landing is no way for InSight and Curiosity to tation. Saying this, with Mars being the process and took a photo of Mars from meet each-other. 4,700 miles up. NASA later confirmed the solar only planet populated by robots, it Historically, only 40% of Mars arrays were up and InSight was stable. gives hope and renewed interest that missions have ever succeeded, as the The next phase is the collecting of gen- we might see humans’ first steps on the thinner Martian atmosphere gives less eral information about the interior of surface of Mars. For more information regarding friction to slow a descending space- the planet. craft. Since this is such a rare opportunity, InSight, visit https://mars.nasa.gov/ After the atmospheric entry, and a InSight carries multiple scanners and insight.
Issue 21
News
November 28, 2018 Page 3
Trump responds to Fourth National Climate Assessment By Ross Smith Opinion Editor On Monday, Nov. 6, President Trump was shown the results of the Fourth National Climate Assessment, which outlines the potential impacts of climate change across every sector of American society. According to BBC News, Trump was “asked outside the White House about the findings that unchecked global warming would wreak havoc on the US economy.” Trump responded, “I don’t believe it” (bbc.com). Specifically, Trump told reporters on Monday that he “read some of” Friday’s assessment reports, which were compiled with the help of the US government. According to the report, climate change in the US will cost hundreds of billions annually and damage health. The BBC reports that the world’s leading scientists agree that climate change is human–induced.
They also warn that natural fluctuations in temperature are being “exacerbated by human activity.” Trump told reporters on Monday that “Right now we’re at the cleanest we’ve ever been…but if we’re clean, but every other place on Earth is dirty, that’s not good.” Trump refutes claims that the US needs to reduce emissions, claiming that instead, other countries need to make efforts to cut their emissions. In previous conversations about climate change, Trump has maintained this stance. In October, he accused climate change scientists of having a “political agenda” according to an interview with Fox News. He said he was “unconvinced that humans were responsible for Earth’s rising temperatures” (foxnews.com). Following his inauguration, Trump announced that the US would withdraw from the Paris climate change agreement.
collaborate to take major, and costly, changes. Changes necessary include “reducing global emissions of CO2 by 45% from 2010 levels by 2030, and reducing coal use to almost zero and using up to seven million sq km for land energy Source: CNN Pictured above is President Trump speaking to multiple crops” (bbc.com). Scientists media outlets regarding climate change assessment. warn than if the This agreement is held between 187 issue is not addressed, there will be sigother countries to keep global tempera- nificant and dangerous consequences tures safe. Trump left the agreement to our world, including rising sea due to “disadvantages” to US business. levels, rising ocean temperatures and According to an October report by acidity, and the ability to grow crops.“ For more information regarding the the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, climate change can only climate change, visit www.cnn.com. be stopped if the nations of the world
Latest news on California Woolsey Camp Fire
By ROSS SMITH Opinion Editor
According to an online article on the ABC News website posted Nov. 25 around noon, authorities report that the deadly wildfire known as the Camp Fire which has been destroying Californian woodlands for 18 days has finally been put out. The wildfire ignited on Nov. 8 in Northern California’s Butte County and has been destroying a vast amount of land and buildings, both commercial and residential, and has also taken lives. After igniting in the tiny community of Pulga in the Plumas National Forest, the blaze exploded due to strong
winds fanning the flames southwest, enveloping Paradise, a community of 27,000 people. Aerial photos on the website show before and after photos of the town, demonstrating the damage the Camp Fire has done, turning the community into a toxic wasteland. According to a Nov. 25 article posted on Fox News’ online site, “the fire burned across a total of 153,336 acres, destroyed 13,972 residences, 528 commercial and 4,293 other buildings” (foxnews.com). The most destructive fire in the past century and the worst in California’s history, the Camp Fire has taken 84 lives and left 560 people unaccounted for.
In addition, at least three firefighters were injured battling the Camp Fire Firefighters and volunteer workers are continuing to search through the debris and ash left by the wildfire in search of survivors. Firefighters and volunteers continue to search through debris and ash left in search of survivors. News of Camp Fire’s containment has been very welcome, especially after Southern California’s firefighters reported that Woolsey Fire, which started the same day as the Camp Fire and killed three people, has also been 100 percent contained. “The Woolsey Fire also injured three firefighters and burned 96,949 acres,” according to ABC News.
Rain doused the burn areas on Friday and Saturday, helping to put out the fire, but also creating new problems such as flash floods and mudslides. ABC also reports that a multi– agency task force has created aerial imagery maps of damaged properties in most of the burn areas in the town of Paradise. The agency has also created video surveys and 360–degree drone panoramas of all major roads in the area in hopes that the maps will provide valuable data in the search for survivors. Gov. Jerry Brown visited the devastation caused by Camp Fire, which he claims is “one of the worst disasters I’ve ever seen in my career, hands down” (abcnews.com).
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Sports & Recreation
Mickelson wins The Match over Woods for $9 million By GJ WELLINGHURST Staff Writer In the most anticipated two-person golf match of all time, Tiger Woods squared off against Phil Mickelson. Although these two legends are out of their prime, that did not affect the excitement leading up to the match. A few months ago, the stage was set for Woods, who had been finding his swing as of late, and super skilled lefty, Mickelson to play head to head in Las Vegas. The stakes? $9 million in prize money plus many other side bets that would be donated to charity. The match was a pay–per– view event that cost $20, but due to a technical glitch, the company televising it had to refund everyone their money, and anyone could watch it for free. Tiger had been coming off a stellar season when the match was set up, so he was the favorite to take home the cash prize. However, neither golfer performed to what was expected. Putts that these golfers could make in their sleep were being missed the entire day. By the end of the day, it was Mickelson who controlled the match for most of the day. He even had a six-stroke lead over his counterpart, but because of the hall of fame status of Woods, he could not let his guard down. On the seventeenth hole, Mickelson had a one-stroke lead when Tiger nailed a chip from the fringe. Mickelson
was quoted as saying, “You’ve been doing that crap to me for 20 years. I am not sure why I’d be surprised now.” A huge part of this match gaining so much popularity was the friendship that these two have had for years. They have gone back and forth between winning championships and friendly trash talk afterward for years. In the end, it was Mickelson who won after playing four extra holes which had to be set up on the practice green with artificial lights. The lefty proved to be too skilled for Woods on that day, and although he won the match, he acknowledged that Woods has proven to be the best golfer of all time for the last twenty years.
The Georgetonian
Classic holiday sport: Thanksgiving football
By COOPER JACOBELLI Staff Writer This is the time of year where we all get super fat, see certain family members for the first time in forever and spend hours on the couch watching football. Thanksgiving time is arguably the second-best time of the year besides Christmas (everyone loves Christmas I dare say, you have to). The football games seem more intense, the food seems more delicious and the family seems louder - my family especially. Sitting in a basement or a living room around a tv and a table full of food is a feeling that makes all of the hard
work and time spent in class well worth it. You may even be forced to unbutton the top button of your jeans or switch into a pair of sweats; which many consider a sign of success. The most anticipated tradition is the annual family football game: ideally played in the snow, but will most likely be mud. This year we had a ton of people playing. It was almost in the negative degrees when we made our trek down to the sacred football field. My dad, Greg ,is always the quarterback because he does not get along with running. My three cousins and I are always receivers because we can get along with running
sometimes. My sister and my mother are always tight ends; they do a mixture of block and run and catching the ball when it’s least expected. They are the “dark horses” of the field. My family has always been awesome in respect to the fact that they are always down to play a game or two of football. I highly recommend adding this to the long list of your family’s traditions. If it isn’t already on there. Every family can benefit from doing stuff like this and don’t get hurt. It’s a ton of fun, and you always get to trash talk your immediate family, which is super gratifying. It’s one of the only times a year where you can say mildly profane things and get
GC ATHLETIC SCHEDULE
DECEMBER Sat 1 7 p.m. Mon 3 7 p.m. Sun 9 3 p.m. Tue 11 6 p.m. Tue 11 8 p.m. Thu 13 6 p.m. Thu 13 8 p.m. Sat 15 1 p.m. Sun 30 2 p.m. JANUARY Wed 2 2 p.m. Sat 5 2 p.m. Sat 5 4 p.m. Thu 10 6 p.m. Thu 10 8 p.m. Sat 12 2 p.m. Sat 12 4 p.m.
Men’s Basketball Women’s Basketball Women’s Basketball Women’s Basketball Men’s Basketball Men’s Basketball Women’s Basketball Women’s Basketball Women’s Basketball
@ @ vs. vs. vs. vs. vs. @ vs.
Washington Adventist University Indiana University Southeast Voorhees College Welch College Welch College Simmons College of Kentucky Simmons College of Kentucky Alice Lloyd College Martin Methodist
Men’s Basketball Women’s Basketball Men’s Basketball Women’s Basketball Men’s Basketball Women’s Basketball Men’s Basketball
vs. vs. vs. vs. vs. vs. vs.
Washington Adventist University Campbellsville University Campbellsville University Lindsey Wilson College Lindsey Wilson College Cumberland University Cumberland University
Issue 21
Sports & Recreation
November 28, 2018 Page 5
Top three seeds in NCAA football are claimed By BUDDY LUKENS Staff Writer Here we are, conference championship week of the college football season. Every team has been weeded out, and the true championship contenders are the only ones left in a position to grab a playoff spot. There are seven teams who mathematically can end up with one of the last four playoff spots. Out of those seven spots, three of them are already, in my opinion, clinched. So, this week will see scenarios that could end up with four different teams in one spot. First, let’s visit the three teams that already have their spots locked in the playoffs. Notre Dame is 12-0, with them being unaffiliated with a con-
Source: Matthew Tosh
Alabama Offense in the annual Iron Bowl ference, their season is over. At number three, the playoff spot is locked. Clemson and Alabama are both in very similar situations. They are the clear–cut two best teams in the country and have run the table to undefeated seasons. Even if they suffer loses in their con-
ference championship games, they have shown that even as one loss teams, they will be in the playoffs. The games that will be played to decide the four available spots is where the most intriguing football will be played. There are several
scenarios that can play out for each of the four teams to end up in the playoffs. The four teams playing for the last spot are Georgia, Oklahoma, Ohio State, and UCF. The only team that has a strict “win and in” scenario is Georgia. They have a matchup with Alabama, and Bama is the heavy favorite to win the title. With how Alabama has dominated everyone this season, it is hard to imagine Georgia taking down Bama. The next team to look at is the University of Central Florida. They are one of four undefeated teams left in college football this season, but are ranked the lowest of the seven. As a non-power five conference team, they will not make it over a one loss power-five team. They will need
to see losses by Oklahoma, Georgia, and Ohio State. Along with a win the AAC championship game. That leaves Ohio State and Oklahoma left: the two teams who I believe have the best chance to make the playoffs. With Georgia being an underdog, these two are favored to win their games. With the UGA loss, and OU and OSU wins, a very interesting debate would form about who gets in. They both are one loss teams, who have looked very well the whole season and very similar resumes. It would be a tossup, and up for a decision by the playoff committee. Regardless of what happens, championship weekend will be exciting.
MLS finals approach as Eastern and Western conferences battle to the end By ETHAN CUNDIFF Staff Writer Football and basketball are in full force now. The NFL season is starting to get interesting as playoff races are begining to narrow. The NBA has also seen a lot of craziness; Jimmy Butler hit two game– winners for his new team the Philadelphia 76ers. Both sports continue to get better and offer surprises as their seasons progress. With that being said let’s look at the MLS playoffs and how the final will shape up. The Eastern Conference final is seeing Atlanta United facing off against the Red Bulls of New York. On the Western Conference side, Portland is
playing against Kansas City. On Sunday, we saw Atlanta United at home get an easy win against New York. They won 3-0 and are now up on Aggregate Goals as they go to New York on Thursday. New York, took first place in the division and the supporting sheild from Atlanta on the last day of the regular season. They were looking to be the top dog in the East and have yet to prove it. Atlanta has been the best team in the Eastern conference all year, they have been the most consistent team in the conference. We saw how good Atlanta was when they took a huge advantage going into the second leg of the conference
final. Being able to beat New York 3-0 at home gave them momentum going into the second leg, won the Eastern conference, and went to the final, beating New York 1-0 on Thursday. The Western conference is a different story. We saw Sporting Kansas City and Portland play a tough match ending with a 0-0 draw in the first leg. Looking at this matchup for Thursday, Portland has the advantage in this match. Being able to fight out a draw and not give up any goals will help them going into Thursday. For Sporting Kansas City, they will have to put in another fight so that they can get a win
out of this match. Portland can play for a 1-1 draw and go to the final based on away goals. This match will be the one to watch out for because these two teams have seen each other before the playoffs. Right now it can go either way. I can see this match going into extra-time or maybe even penalty kicks, but I think the home
crowd for Kansas City will help them get a win. Seeing Sporting Kansas City and Atlanta in the final would be an excellent thing for Major League Soccer because these are two outstanding teams that do not get the credit they deserve. The final can be seen on December 8 at eight o’clock on FOX.
If you’re interested in becoming a photographer or writer for the sports section, contact Riley Noe at jnoe@georgetowncollege.edu
Features
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The Georgetonian
Students travel to Chicago for AMUN By Trey Smallwood Backpage Editor
Georgetown recently sent 15 students to Chicago to the American Model United Nations Conference. The conference took place Nov. 17-20. Model United Nations is a class at Georgetown College that is offered every fall through the political science department and taught by Dr. Melissa Scheier. While at the conference, our students represented the country of the Dominican Republic. The students sat on various committees modelling the actual committees of the United Nations. While each committee had a dif-
ferent focus, such as the International world health, education Press Delegation. in third world nations She worked to and legal issues, each contribute articles committee debated to “The Chroniissues that are currently cle,” the conferdebated in the actual ence newspaper. United Nations comCheatham was mittees. assigned to the Georgetown also General Assembly had students selected sixth committee, to serve on the Internawhich covered tional Court of Justice Source: Trey Smallwood issues of who and the International Pictured: All Georgetown students who partici- should have jurispated in front of the “Bean” in Chicago Press Delegation. diction over PeaceDonald Smallwood on the legality of the Kosovo keepers who commit was selected to serve on the region declaring indepen- crimes in countries and how International Court of Justice. dence. These are also cases that to protect women from sexual He was one of 13 justices to have been tried by the actual crimes and civilians from war hear cases regarding inter- United Nations International crimes. national law. He heard cases Court of Justice. Mikaela Adams served regarding Georgia’s claim of Rachel Cheatham was as the Head Delegate for the ethnic cleansing in Russia and chosen to serve as a member of group. As the student leader of
Hate to see her go, love to watch her leave
Source: Kayla Godby
Kayla Godby
After graduation in December, Kayla will be marrying her high school sweatheart and moving to Germany.
the group, she was responsible to ensure all delegates were properly educated and was a resource for Georgetown Students at the conference. The students also got to spend a free afternoon in Chicago to sightsee. Many students either went to the Chicago Art Institute or to Michigan Avenue. They also had a group brunch on the day of their departure. Cooper Adkins, sophomore, also went on the trip. He added, “this was my first year doing Model UN, but I had a lot of fun. It was an awesome opportunity to see how the real United Nations work. It was also a lot of fun meeting people from other colleges.”
An update from our friend across the pond By Josiah Haller Staff Writer
I live in the Angus building in Regent’s Park. It’s kind of the international student housing, and it is a bit spearated from the main college, but at least we’re in college. I live with a kid named Cam Watts. He goes to Georgia College in Atlanta, and he is studying economics. A big thing I have learned while here is to express my voice, and not to be afraid when people disagree with me. In my tutorials, I found it scary when I disagreed with my tutors, because I was afraid it meant I was wrong, and I was also taking their “attacks”
on my ideas a bit personally. Throughout the term, I have learned that it is good to disagree with people, because if you both are willing to learn, disagreement can be a way to grow and mature in your views. and it is not just the other person’s way of demanding that you change your view. In my last tutorial, my tutor disagreed with me on some key points, but instead of being afraid that I was wrong, I was able to stand by my views with confidence, and from that came a good discussion which I think both of us, my tutor and I, were able to learn from. While I am still improving in this concept, I have learned to be more confident in what I think, and that disagreement can lead to greater understand-
ing, and should not always be shied away from. Being at Oxford has changed my perspective on a lot of things, but most of all it has changed my view of myself. When you get to go to Oxford, I think you get to build a healthy self-respect because of what you have accomplished, but at the same time you become humbled because you realize that you are in the presence of some of the most intelligent people on the planet. I have learned a lot about who I am and what my place is in the circles I find myself in, and I think these things are going to serve me well when I return to the States and return to Georgetown.
Issue 21
Features
November 28, 2018 Page 7
pies that many may not know about. Most organizations that participate in this day include The Humane Society, St. Jude Children’s Hospital and other hospitals, the American Heart Association, various overseas ministries and so many more. It allows the average person to play a role in various causes need in our world. This is something our own Georgetown College aimed to do this year. Last year Georgetown participated in this international day of giving and received a total of 783 gifts, totaling to a whopping $101,101. This money raised goes back to student scholarship. Tricia Gaetz, the Director of Annual Gifts, said, “the reason we give this money to student scholarship and not another platform on campus is because we want other students to be able to experience what current students are now, without the issue of money getting in the way.” This year the goal was
to do even better than last year, setting the goal of gifts at 829. Playing on the year Georgetown College was founded, the school encouraged students, faculty and the Source: Sophie Hughes Georgetown All who donated received a flag with their name on community to the back and was placed on Giddings Lawn. be one of 829. Business leaders around the encourage all students to give community were also invited because we are lucky enough on campus to give a lend- to directly see the impact these ing hand and their expertise. gifts make. By giving back, we Tricia Gaetz addressed the are paving the way to leave reason they encourage “gifts” the college better than how we instead of a dollar amount is found it,” Young said. If you did not participate because every cent matters. in Giving Tuesday this year, She said that if people donated take this time to learn more gifts, the money would follow. about it. Find the causes you Senior Aiden Young serves are passionate about. Use this as the sub-committee co-chair opportunity to be involved believes this day is about more than just giving back. in something so much bigger It’s about seeing change. “I than yourself and give back.
Georgetown hosts annual Giving Tuesday By SOPHIE HUGHES
Monday. According to GivingTuesday.org the day was “created This past Tuesday, George- by the team at the Belfer Center town College participated for Innovation & Social Impact in Giving Tuesday. Giving at the 92nd Street Y—a cultural Tuesday may be an unfamil- center in New York City that, iar concept to most, and that since 1874, has been bringis because it is a pretty recent ing people together around movement. Established in the values of service and 2012, Giving Tuesday is in its giving back—#GivingTuesseventh year and always falls day connects diverse groups the Tuesday after Thanks- of individuals, communities giving—following the better and organizations around known Black Friday and Cyber the world for one common purpose: to celebrate and encourage giving” This day is centered around the power of social media and the generosity of people around the world, to give back to Source: Sophie Hughes communities Pictured: students Alexa McCormick, Courtney and to highlight Ford and Jacob Roberts encouraging students to different causes participate outside the caf. and philanthroFeatures Editor
What’s new this week
11/28- Coffee and Canvas- Sponsored by GAC 6:30 p.m. in Cooke
If you are interested in writing or pho-
Panhellenic Dodgeball Tournament for Circle of Sisterhood 8 p.m. in Rec 11/29- Hanging of the Green (NEXUS!!) 7 p.m. in Chapel 11/30- Phi Mu Christmas Party 7 p.m. at Phi Mu 12/3- Sigma Kappa’s Christmas Candlelight 7 p.m. at Georgetown Baptist Church 12/4- Chorale Christmas Concert 7 p.m. in Chapel Finals Throwdown 8-11 p.m. in Caf
tography for the Features section, please contact Sophie Hughes at shughes@georgetowncollege.edu
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ArtsEntertainment
The Georgetonian
“An Absolutely Remarkable Thing” is an absolutely remarkable thing By ELLIE SMITH Staff Writer “An Absolutely Remarkable Thing” is Hank Green’s debut novel. Though a new author, Hank Green already has a large fan-base due to his work with his brother John, the famous young adult author of “The Fault In Our Stars” and “Paper Towns.” In addition to these collaborations, Hank is known for creating and hosting educational YouTube channels “Crash Course” and “SciShow.” I myself picked up Hank Green’s book based on my previous experience reading John’s books. I thought that I had outgrown young adult fiction as a genre of choice, as opposed to re-reads for the sake of reminiscence. However, this spring I was utterly impressed with the maturity of John’s most recent novel “Turtles All The Way Down.” Again this fall, I was blown away by Hank’s “An Absolutely Remarkable Thing.” The book has a rather interesting premise in which a supernatural element is inserted into reality. In this story, the supernatural element is a pas-
sive invasion of identical alien robots. If you would like to avoid spoilers that describe the quality of character development, depth of themes and praise for such a creative plot, I suggest that you stop reading now. In a very brief summary: April May stumbles across what she believes to be a new statue, perhaps modern street art in New York City, and has her friend post a video of them with the giant robot to YouTube. It turns out that identical robots appeared simultaneously all around the world, and April is the first to make contact with the invaders. With follow up posts, April becomes instantly famous. She moves on to interview with several news agencies, write a book and even speak with the president of the United States. Ultimately, with the help of her friends, she solves the puzzle set forth by the robots and gives them what they came to find. This plot leaves room for development of themes and ideas that are relevant to the twenty-first century thus far. One of the most prominent is the power of instant fame. Within a very short time span, April accumulates mil-
lions of fans all around the world. With this fame, April has the power and platform to promote positive change. However, this fame also proves to have power over April as demonstrated in the degradation of family, friendship and romantic relationships in favor of advancing her career or internet following. This book also gives consideration to gender and sexuality as viewed in the west. For instance, the president of the United States in this novel is a woman. Another major component of this theme is that the protagonist is bisexual. In a televised debate, April May questions why her opponent is concerned with her sexuality when there are bigger issues at hand, such as the alien invasion. The power of fame and perceptions of sexuality are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to important issues to which Hank Green calls attention. “An Absolutely Remarkable Thing” opens the floor to many questions that should be discussed today: Can the United States look to someone in their twenties as a leader? Are we ready for artificial intelligence? Could the entire
world ever unite over a common goal? All of these ideas are realized through engaging characters. Despite the central conflict of an alien invasion, the protagonist grows in rather realistic circumstances for character development. April does not necessarily get a happy ending, but the story closes on a note of hope in unfair circumstances. I am thoroughly impressed with Hank Green’s creativity, skillful writing of plot and characters, and ability to engage with heavy topics in an approachable manner. I did not actively engage with these ideas until finishing the book since I was so interested in learning the next piece of the puzzle alongside the characters. I would not be surprised if this becomes one of the most successful novels on the year. If you are interested in young adult fiction, Hank Green’s personality as seen in his YouTube episodes, science fiction or group dynamics in problem solving, I highly recommend this book. I assure you, it has received 4.18 out of 5 stars on Good Reads for a reason. When you pick up “An Absolutely Remarkable Thing,” you will not be able to put it down.
A Christmas Crossword
Across
1. You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout, I’m telling you why: _______.is coming to town! (2 Words) 4.Frosty the Snowman, is a fairytale, they say. He was ______, but the children know he came to life one day. (3 Words) 6.These glittery decorations are called icicles or “_____”. 9.I want a _____ for Christmas! 12.It’s fun to sing, “Dashing through the snow,in a one horse _______, o’er the fields we go. . . “ 13.Reindeer who has a red nose. 14.You want to leave _____ for Santa to snack on when he visits.
Down
2.”A Christmas Story” warns if you have a BB gun, “You’ll ________ out!” (3 Words) 3.Many families make rocky road ____ at Christmastime. 5.He gets left alone at home and has to defend himself against two burglers. 7.We wish you a Merry Christmas and a ______! (3 Words) 8.This train will take you to the North Pole! (2 Words) 10.Snowman that comes to life with a top hat. 11.Including Rudolph, how many reindeer were there?
ArtsEntertainment You should be watching “The Good Doctor” Issue 21
By LAUREN PARKINSON A&E Editor On September 25, 2017, ABC aired the pilot episode of “The Good Doctor.” A new kind of medical drama, this show stars Freddie Highmore as a genius young surgeon who happens to be diagnosed with both autism and Savant syndrome. “The Good Doctor” is now in the middle of its second season, and it is proving itself to be even more unique to the medical drama scene. Firstly, the portrayal of an autistic main character is a ground-breaking notion for television. Freddie Highmore’s performance as resident
November 28, 2018 Page 7
surgeon Dr. Shaun Murphy is as fascinating as it is tremendously moving. However, as I do not personally know anyone with autism, I cannot really say whether or not this show is an accurate portrayal of those diagnosed with this condition. I can, however, cite abc10. com, which quotes a professor of psychiatry and behavioral science who claims that this show is fairly realistic in portraying Dr. Murphy’s speech and social skills. In addition to the representation of autism, “The Good Doctor” sets itself apart form other medical dramas in the issues that the plot takes on. Most of the main characters are resident surgeons, so the audience learns about medical
procedures even as the characters do. This also allows for the use of more experimental and risky surgeries that would not be used in a non-residential hospital. In addition, the creators of this show are clearly aware of the fact that it is a young medical drama trying to stand out among scores of others. So, it embraces modern social and moral dilemmas that others have not. Even as early as season one, the show introduced a transgender patient and tackled the concept of the autistic surgeon struggling to comprehend her mindset. In season two, the surgeons must do their best to understand an anorexic patient in order to help her.
Even with all this, the one thing that I truly admire about this show is that it is willing to leave you with an unhappy ending. There is not always a heartfelt recovery if a surgeon messes up. Instead, some episodes leave you with a gaping hole in your chest as you realize that someone made the wrong choice, and a patient died as a result. My point is that this show is not just another medical drama among countless others. This is one that deserves to be kept on the air. So, please, do yourselves a favor and watch the first season. You should have just enough time to catch up before the season two finale.
“Fantastic Beasts” sequel moves the franchise along By JEREMY MIZE Staff Writer “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald” written by J.K. Rowling and directed by David Yates is the sequel to “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” (both prequels and the newest additions to the Wizarding World franchise) and continues the story of Newt Scamander and his adventures. Scamander, played by Eddie Redmayne, struggles with trying to remain neutral in the developing conflict in the wizarding community as Gellert Grindelwald, played by Johnny Depp, continues his campaign for wizard and witch dominion over the world. As the film goes on, the deeply troubling lines that define the magical societies within the world blur as people’s choices, beliefs and relationships lead them on different yet interconnected paths. This film is, in a way, a stepping stone in the franchise because it contains some major character development. We see how the wizard
communities’ laws about their places in the world and relationships with nonmagic humans, called No-Maj by the American wizarding community, drive the actions and feelings of the main characters every step of the way. We see how the flaws within their world compel the characters, whether personally, ideologically or both, to make decisions that will alter the course of their lives. Newt Scamander, despite his ideas on the conflict between the opposing sides of the wizarding world, realizes he has to take a side because of where the conflict could end if the wrong side wins. His interactions with his friend and former teacher, Albus Dumbledore (played by Jude Law), and his experiences in the world where he sees the conflict progress compels him to join the fight. One of the most defining and interesting elements to the film is its in-depth exploration and presentation of Grindelwald himself. In the first film, he was presented as a cunning individual as he tricked the American
Wizarding community for so long by obtaining and maintaining a major position within their government. However, this film reveals more of the character’s personality. Like Voldemort, he is a powerful wizard and is feared and hated by those he opposes. Yet unlike Harry Potter’s nemesis, Grindelwald’s followers support him not out of fear, but out of trust. Grindelwald is a charismatic villain who doesn’t just use actions to win people over to his side, but also his words. His supporters believe in him and are willing to follow him without fear and near absolute loyalty. Within this film, Grindelwald is building a force to create a new era within the wizarding world: problems within the ruling bodies of the magical world that control the people and limit their influences on the world. For Grindelwald, he believes that the laws keep wizards and witches from their rightful place as those who hold dominion over the world. He influences wizards and witches who are unhappy with the laws to join his side.
The character Queenie, played by Alison Sudol, who is in love with No-Maj Jacob Kowalski, played by Dan Fogler, believes that the laws are unjust because they keep her from being with her beloved openly. However, (spoiler alert, sorry) Grindelwald’s interaction with her makes her believe that Grindelwald’s goal is just and will allow her to be who she is and love who she loves… with a tragic ending for her relationship with Jacob. This film focuses on people’s relationships and ideals of a greater world. Individual hopes and dreams focus and drive the characters to the ends they believe are best for the future of their world. Every character takes a stand for what they believe in. Equality, peace, power, control…all of these motivations and more compel the cast of characters to act upon their hopes. “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald” is a film that is defined by the beliefs that unite or divide individuals, taking stands for what they believe is right and is best for the world.
Opinion
Page 10
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Hike your life away By DEMETRIUS HARRISON News Editor Let’s face it: millennials are just as attached to our pocket-sized, digital wonderlands as baby boomers say we are. While our miniature supercomputers are not all bad, it is safe to say they act as a distraction from the fascinations of life. According to research conducted by analytics firm Flurry, Americans average a minimum of five hours per day on our mobile devices. This percentage has risen 20 percent since 2015. A recent report from Trust for America’s Health and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation revealed America’s obesity problem continues to increase, with 35% of Americans being classified as obese. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 23 percent of Americans get enough exercise, and the Pew Research Center’s Internet & American Life Project has found 88% of teenagers 13-17 own a cellphone and 91% of adults own cellphones. While I could shove more
statistics in your face regarding the number of walking injuries caused by “texting and walking,” as well as stating facts of how obsessive use of mobile technology can weigh negatively on your life, the point is clear. For some reason, hiking is a dying activity. In fact, if I could slide in one more statistic, the Statista Global Consumer Survey reported a total of 12.3% of respondents aged 18 to 29 go hiking. I want to encourage you to unplug every now and then and find a local place to hike, even take a road trip when the weather permits, and go on a hike. The benefits outweigh the cons. Tying back into the aforementioned, hiking is a phenomenal way to exercise without noticing you’re doing it. Hiking can increase your strength, stamina as well as cardiovascular capability. If you aren’t working out, this is a great way to substitute a gym commitment! Hobbies don’t always have to be physical – hiking is free, and something anyone can do, regardless of age. I suggest
hiking with groups: friends and/or family. This is a great way to socialize as well. You could grab a friend you haven’t caught up with in a while to talk and walk! Trade in your expensive yoga membership for nature. Hiking is also a way to expand your awareness. Personally, I always feel connected to nature when I hike. I see so many gorgeous natural landmarks around me that I forget my phone exists for a couple of hours. Take a look at plants around you that may seem foreign, hike to the top of a cliff for the experience of a beautiful view. Maybe even join, or form, a hiking club to make new friends. While it’s hard to let go of the digital world we have all been warped into, there is a way out – at least for a dosage at a time. Take a hike, get yourself in shape and unplug from the invisible media surrounding you. If you have a hard time finding a starter place to hike, I encourage you to download the app “AllTrails” that uses your location to show you the nearest hiking and biking trails near you.
Opinion
Issue 21
November 28, 2018 Page 11
Get rid of your TV: an analysis of the effects of overwatching television
By DEMETRIUS HARRISON News Editor
As I write, I am thinking of the ways my future children will hate me for this article, but I believe this argument is for their benefit. The American Dream is killing us as its definition has transformed with the changing tide of technology, transforming the average household’s principles into ‘bigger is better.’ Of course we all own things we don’t necessarily need, but I would like to argue that instead of giving up those things we don’t need, simply relocate them out of plain sight. I believe the bedroom
should be a sanctuary: a time capsule acting as a representation of your current lifestyle. Decorate it as you please in a way you feel at peace. Do not accessorize your bedroom in a way you will be distracted from your natural course of life interests, like a television. I grew up with a television in my bedroom as well as a desktop computer. However, as I grew older, I realized that some days instead of getting out of bed as I planned, I’d get trapped watching sitcoms or using my computer. I missed out on going outside as much as I wanted in the summer to laze the day away. Flash forward to adulthood, I do not have a televi-
sion in my bedroom, I have experienced both ends of the spectrum. Without a television in my room, I not only have more space for a bookshelf, coffee table and a few chairs, but I also feel more comfortable. Try moving your television out of plain sight, maybe loaning it to someone or putting it in your living room or basement. The National Sleep Foundation has found that Americans unintentionally watch over 35 hours of television per week. The temptation to watch is too strong to turn it off, even when we are sleepy. Removing your TV from your room will ultimately help you sleep better.
Not having a television in your room also provides for a quieter environment, allowing more peace in your room for studying, hobbies, and crafts. The removal also opens up lines for more communication. If you share a room, maybe you don’t notice you bond only over television with your roommate. Without the device to fill the silence, you could take the time to spark conversation. Not having a television in your room also has the benefit of saving you money: you see removing advertisements! Resist temptation of seeing the sale of your dreams by just removing it out of your private room space. Furthermore, and most
importantly, you will have the benefit of getting ready much, much faster. Having the television on while getting ready in the morning is a major distraction and an extra step to make sure you turn it off to conserve energy and the lifetime of the television. Hopefully you can take the time to transform your bedroom into a welcoming environment for yourself. Hang up whatever decorations that symbolize your hobbies and interests. Don’t let television shows and commercial advertisements paint the environment of your room. Besides, who wants to take the time to periodically clean up the dust televisions attract, anyway?
But they were serious, and despite my numerous attempts to halt it they will graduate in about two weeks. Bitter sweet memories come to mind when thinking of a way to send them off, my radiant friends who filled my life with laughter for years. They pushed me to be the best version of myself, especially when it meant pushing me towards a couch for a nap. Some of them are going to law school, some are earning their masters, and others are entering the workforce full speed ahead.
Their ambitions strengthened my own and allowed me the chance to have role models my own age. “A true friend freely, advises justly, assists readily, adventures boldly, takes all patiently, defends courageously, and continues a friend unchangeably,” said William Penn. How quieter my daily life will be without them in it. I blinked, and the semester was over. Our undergrad days spent together are almost entirely gone, and it fills me with a gratefulness towards
my friends who have helped each other become their best selves. As Marcel Proust said, “let us be grateful to people who make us happy, they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” It takes courage to pursue what one loves, and wisdom to turn it into a reality. It takes humor and grace to roll with life’s seemingly unending challenges, and memory for when the challenges pause. My sincerest congratulations for exemplifying all these traits and more.
As the chorus of the main theme of the film Coco says, “Remember me. Though you have to say goodbye, remember me. Don’t let it make you cry. For even if you’re far away, I hold you in my heart. Know that I’m with you the only way that I can be, Until we’re together again...remember me.” You helped make my dreams of college come true. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. I say tearful farewell to my friends, but also a goodbye to a part of my undergraduate family.
A farewell to my friends By RACHEL CHEATHAM Editor-in-Chief I thought they were joking a year ago, when multiple friends told me they were graduating early. I, with my total of zero credit hours coming into undergrad, couldn’t entertain the possibility. I thought they were kidding. After all, I couldn’t graduate early, but I didn’t understand why they would want to. With the daily adventures, late night trips for fast food, and no bake cookies in the Caf, our world seemed complete.
T H E B A C K P A G E Lessons Relearned: The life of GC Students BY Trey Smallwood
Tour Guide through Georgetown Time Welcome to the final issue of this volume of the Georgetonian! Over the past semester, I have chronicled the lives of former Georgetown students. With each alumnus or group of alumni, I attempted to glean some sort of lesson from their lives. For the final issue in this series I want to look back on those lessons and maybe give a few last thoughts. In the first issue, I discussed the life of Mary Elizabeth George, the first woman to graduate from Georgetown College. I also discussed Dr. Rucker who advocated for her and other women to be included at Georgetown. I discussed the idea that you can be an advocate for anyone and any issue even if it does not affect you personally. You do not have to be a woman to fight for equal rights for women. You do not have to be a minority to fight for the rights of minorities. We all need allies. In the second issue, I discussed the life of Isaac Lynch. Lynch died aboard the U.S.S Arizona in Pearl Harbour. I talked about the virtue of sacrifice. Lynch was not that much older than many of the students here at Georgetown, and he chose to fight for our country. I believe it is one of the most noble things anyone can do, but to have the virtue of sacrifice you do not have to go so far as to giving your life. You can sacrifice that Taco Bell run to donate that money to your favorite charity or someone you know in need. Even what seem like minor sacrifices can make big impacts. Then I began chronicling the lives
of groups of people. I started with Georgetown College Trustees. The lesson I took from the trustees was that a lot of matches were made here at Georgetown and maybe you can follow in their footsteps and find your future spouse. Also, maybe one day you can see your own son or daughter come to Georgetown. You could have also pulled from these people’s lives that no matter what you do after Georgetown, you can always give back. You can give back by giving money to the college, like we recently did with #givingtuesday, but also by serving at the college. Next, I chose to look at the lives of individuals who served in the confederate Army. While this was controversial, I think we learned a lot from their lives. One could draw the lesson of standing up for what you believe in. While important, if these people are standing up and fighting for their rights to keep slaves, that is not something our society would want to endorse. One other thing I think we can all learn from their lives was that all of these individuals are humans, just like the rest of us. They all had families, an education and normal jobs. They were teachers, doctors, pastors, bankers and merchants. I think it is important to humanize them and not think of them as some other worldly monsters. They certainly were in the wrong, but they were still humans.While racism is an evil that is still around in this country, we will not fix it with hate. We should not fight fire with fire or hate with hate. I believe that if we approach people who are racist, sexist or homophobic with a view of us
trying to help them and not condemn them, the approach is not only more righteous but also more effective. In the fifth issue, I looked at former Georgetown students who became teachers. It is okay to dedicate your life to public service. I also pointed out that society can always do a better job of respecting teachers. Part of respecting teachers is allowing them to do their jobs. These teachers trained to be teachers, and when they were teachers, they were allowed to teach. I feel like our students would do much better if politicians worried about the students and the teachers like they worry about the required curriculum. Teachers make such a big impact on students’ lives. They can, in fact, literally change their student’s lives. I wish all of society could see this. I then spent three weeks chronicling the lives of people who served our country as politicians. Every one of those weeks I urged readers to volunteer, vote and, in the future, give back. I hope to see more Georgetown students volunteering on the things they are passionate about. Also, the voter turnout rate was up this election! I think it is because of my articles, but I may be wrong. Also, I want to urge you to consider running for office eventually. We need fewer politicians and more people with good ideas. Run for local government seats; they are just as important as congressmen and senators. For the final issue, I chose to do recent alumni who have been famous in more recent years. One thing I would like to add is that it is okay to be pas-
sionate about sports. I know many students are fans of our sports teams, but overall we could use more school passion. It is okay to take a break from the books and support your teams. Who knows, our athletes could go on to be a superstar.The next is idea is to be passionate about what you do. Whether sports or something else, put 110% into it and hopefully you will also be successful in your field. To sum this all up I want to introduce one last idea this week, you never know where life is going to take you after Georgetown. Who knows? You could even become famous and powerful like some of the people I have talked about. But regardless if you are famous or not, you can still make a difference. This has been an underlying theme of every week; Georgetown graduates have made a difference, and so can we. So no matter what field you go in or where you move, you can make a difference. I want to also take the last little bit of space I have left here on the Backpage to thank all of our readers. We love hearing stories of people reading the paper, so please share! Also thanks to Rachel Cheatham, our Editor-inChief and Jennifer Beckett, our advisor for all of their hard work and guidance this semester. Also a very big thank you to the Georgetonian Copy Editors. They have to put up with my inability to spell properly and my excessive use of the Oxford comma, so thank you! Also to all of the other editors and writers who make this newspaper happen, thank you!