February 17, 2016
Volume CXXXVI Issue 4
Black History Month: A look at Zeta Phi Beta Sorority
Zeta Phi Beta to celebrate history and host Black History Month Nexus By DEMETRIA QUINCY Staff Writer The essence of the word “finer” is merely physical. It is a virtue. The Pi Upsilon Chapter of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated at Georgetown College aspires to being finer, and they are seeking to promote the organization through quality rather than quantity. That which the organization lacks in numbers it more than makes up for in commitment to service, diversity and leadership. The four core principles of Zeta Phi Beta are scholarship, service, sisterhood and, above the others, finer womanhood. The organization was first founded on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 16, 1920, by our Five Founding Pearls: Arizona Cleaver Stemmons, Mrytle Tyler Faithful, Viola Tyler Goings, Fannie Pettie Watts and Pearl Anna Neal. The organization was founded on the premise that service should be the mission of Greek life, rather than aris-
Inside
this issue
tocracy. M. Dwaine Green who saw it Georgetown. She is joined by Since the founding of the necessary to help Zeta Phi Beta her fellow members, senior sorority, Zeta Phi Beta has along its journey to George- Teonia McCune and sophochronicled a series of firsts. town. more Kyndle Pace, to make up Zeta Phi Beta was the first The five charter members the Pi Upsilon chapter of Zeta sorority to establish a chap- were Olivia Coleman, Deanna Phi Beta. ter in Africa Despite in 1948, the being the smallfirst sorority est Greek orgato form youth nization on and adult auxcampus, these iliary groups three women and the first continue to to be constitustrive for greattionally bound ness and, at all to a fraternity, costs, remain Phi Beta Sigma finer. Fraternity, The chapIncorporated. ter has decided On Nov. to use social 9, 2014, Zeta media as a platPhi Beta also form to connect became the with students first and only at Georgetown Black Greek Submitted by Demetria Quincy College and to Letter Orga- The three members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, keep students nization to be are (from left to right) sophomore Kyndle Pace, senior informed and chartered at Teonia McCune, and President junior Demetria Quincy. engaged. Georgetown Just last College in the institution’s 200 Masterson, Demetria Quincy, April, Zeta Phi Beta hosted years of existence. Nikita Taggart and Christian “The Thirst is Real” Nexus This accomplishment Crues. Serving as the Presi- event which included a guest speaks volumes to both Zeta dent, junior Demetria Quincy speaker and a student panel. Phi Beta’s vision and to the is the only charter member that The purpose of this event was true leadership of President has not yet graduated from to educate other students on
the do’s and don’t’s of dating. The event was highly publicized on social media, and it proved to be one of the most widely attended Nexus events ever. On Feb. 23, 2016, the chapter will be partnering with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion to host a Black History Month Nexus event on the topic “Not Letting Cultural Perceptions Limit You” in which Clark Jenell Davis, Miss Kentucky 2015, will be the guest speaker. The Nexus event is in a series entitled “Diversity” and is meant to encourage everyone that, no matter someone’s background, one can always achieve anything with the right mindset and attitude. Zeta Phi Beta is proud to help host this event because individuality and overcoming obstacles are important to the organization. Cultural perceptions and uncontrollable circumstances often play a large role in life, and this Nexus event is about breaking out of those molds.
Justice Scalia dies at 79 page 2
The environment, reprise: plastics page 11
Tigers win in week of outstanding performances page 4
This week with Sodexo: Chik-Fil-A in the Mulberry begins page 6
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News Justice Antonin Scalia dies at 79
The Georgetonian
Global
Headlines Compiled by Noah Krieger
In New York City, the annual Central Park Ice Festival was canceled, ironically on account of the weather being too cold. The event, which typically has lights, music, and ice sculptures will not be rescheduled. In Xishuangbanna, China, on Valentine’s Day, an elephant whose mate left him for another male left his nature reserve and spent 20 minutes attacking more than a dozen cars. The Chinese government has promised to pay for the damaged vehicles. In Cadiz, Spain, a 69–year– old employee of a municipal water company was fined after, it was discovered that he hadn’t shown up to work in six years. It was only discovered when his employer attempted to give him an award for 20 years of service. In Los Angeles, California, a stray bundle of Mylar Valentine’s Day balloons hit some power lines and left 5,000 customers without electricity Monday evening. In Grand Chute Wisconsin, 41,000 pounds of stolen Parmesan cheese, worth $90,000, were recovered by police after going missing weeks earlier from Marshfield, Wisconsin. In Belmont, Massachusetts, animal control employees were called out to rescue a deer from a backyard hammock after his antlers became entangled. He was set free without injury attacking more than a dozen cars.
By MEGAN NORRIS Staff Writer
Within two hours of Justice Antonin Scalia’s death being reported, Republican and Democratic leaders on Capitol Hill (as well as presidential candidates) were feuding over whether President Obama should replace Scalia and appoint a new Supreme Court JusSource: Koin.com tice or wait for the next Left to right: Clarence Thomas, Sonia Sotomayor, Antonin Scalia, Stephen Breyer, Chief Jusadministration to make tice John Roberts, Samuel Alito, Anthony Kennedy, Elena Kagan, Ruth Bader Ginsburg. a decision. Scalia’s death triggered an immense battle in WashingRepublican Senate Majority Leader sibility to fill vacancies as soon ton. The discussion? Whether Obama Mitch McConnell insisted that the as possible. It would be unprecshould choose a successor who could next administration instead make edented in recent history for the tilt the Supreme Court toward liberals the appointment. Supreme Court to go a year withor not. On Saturday, after the report “The American people should out a vacant seat. Failing to fill this of Scalia’s death, President Obama have a voice in the selection of their vacancy would be a shameful abdistated that he would nominate a next Supreme Court Justice,” the cation of one of the Senate’s most successor within the near future, but Kentucky Republican McConnell essential Constitutional responsisaid. “Therefore, bilities” (cnn.com). this vacancy should Scalia was one of the most not be filled until influential conservative justices in we have a new Pres- history and forged a decades–long ident” (cnn.com). legacy that prolonged Ronald ReaHowever, Senate gan’s conservative revolution long Minority Leader after the President who nominated Harry Reid issued him left office. Presidential Candia statement that date and Vermont Senator Bernie openly disagreed Sanders made remarks about with McConnell. Scalia and said, “While I differed “The President can with Justice Scalia’s views and and should send the jurisprudence, he was a brilliant, Senate a nominee colorful and outspoken member right away,” Reid of the Supreme Court” (cnn.com). said. “With so many Scalia was seen as a powerful foe important issues by liberal groups owing to his posipending before the tions on issues like abortion and Supreme Court, the the Second Amendment. Senate has a responSource: Fivethirtyeight.com
Justice Scalia was sworn in during 1986, and his wife held up the Bible.
News
Issue 4
February 17, 2016 Page 3
The Writing Center can help you! Writing sessions are always one–on–one and can focus on whatever the student needs help with, whether it’s grammar, content or citing sources. Hours of Operation: 12:30—4:30 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 9:30—11 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursday mornings 7—9 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays 7—11 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays To make an appointment, call extension 8423.
Jennifer Garner speaks for education By RACHEL CHEATHAM News Editor
Source: Kentucky.com
Mark Shirver and Jennifer Garner talking with Senate President Robert Stivers.
Jennifer Garner spoke to the Kentucky General Assembly on Feb. 9 to encourage spending on early childhood development programs. She serves as an ambassodor for the non–profit organization Save the Children. Her mission, along with Action Network President Mark Shriver, is to convince the Kentucky Congress to continuously maintain a budget of one million dollars for all the programs the organization provides. In 2014, Save the Children’s programs in Kentucky impacted 11,154 elementary students across eight different counties
(Savethechildren.org). If Congress continues with Governor Matt Bevin’s budget, then $4 million will get cut from preschool services every two years (Kentucky.com). Shriver said, “We are spending over $10 million here in Kentucky to match the $1 million the state has invested in our work” (Kentucky.com). Save the Children’s early childhood programs have been proven to help children’s literacy levels. In Kentucky, 27 percent of children live in poverty, and 42 percent of children from ages 3–5 are not enrolled
in nursury school, preschool or kindergarten (Savethechildren.org). One–fourth of the children that benefit from Save the Children come from Kentucky (Savethechildren. org). Seventy–seven percent of the children who participate in the programs showed substantial improvment in reading abilities. Their programs equal an extra 5.7 months of schooling (Savethechildren. org).
Sports & Recreation Tiger athletics make impressive weekend showing
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By MEGAN NORRIS Staff Writer Throughout the past week, Georgetown College Athletics have been on the road to earn wins across the state, as well as to sweep away the title of “Player of the Week” in many different sports.
The Georgetonian
losing 8-1 in the women’s and 7-2 in the men’s. However, GC did not back down, and two Tiger players earned Mid–South Conference Player of the Week honors. Austin Colliver took it on the men’s side and Shae Henry on the women’s side for a clean sweep to start the spring
Source: Georgetowncollegeathletics.com
Shae Henry was named MSC Player of the Week.
From softball to the equestrian team, Georgetown College has already earned its stripes this season among opponents to really prove that the Tigers are true competitors in this years’ athletic season. Let’s take a look at the highlights from this past week. Georgetown College men’s and women’s tennis opened this past weekend against NCAA Division II Bellarmine University. The Bellarmine Knights had already played three matches when the Tigers traveled to Louisville Saturday. The Tigers clawed and fought all day, having an impressive showing, despite
awards. The Georgetown College Equestrian Team travelled to Morehead State University for their last regular show of the season. The team set a new team record, claiming both High Point Rider and High Point Team for the final show of the season. Winning individually for the Equestrian team were senior Jenni Gelatt, sophomores West Osborn and Susannah Heuer, and freshmen Bethany Jones and Lindsey Phillips. Georgetown College softball started the season with a split in the Reinhardt University Invitational. The Tigers
(2–2) defeated Tennessee Wesleyan College and Taylor University. Two of the big leaders over the weekend were Chaselyn Allgeier and Jessica Claxton. Allgeier was recognized as MSC Player of the Week and Claxton as MSC Pitcher of the Week. Allgeier went 7–for–14 from the plate with three runs scored and an RBI. Claxton went 1–1 in the circle over the weekend, but gave her team a chance to win both games. Claxton had a 1–0 lead through six innings when the Lady Eagles pushed across an unearned run to tie it. She came back in the bottom of the seventh and gave up a run for the tough loss. Deondre McWhorter became the first Georgetown men’s basketball player ever to score 1,800–plus points, grab 1,000–plus rebounds and block 200–plus shots. He eclipsed the final two stats this
Source: Wikipedia.org
Jessica Claxton was named Mid–South Conference Softball Pitcher of the Week. past week in a win over No. 4 University of Pikeville. The No. 2 nationally ranked team hit the road last Thursday to play an MSC rivalry game against the Lindsey Wilson College Blue Raiders. Georgetown took the win against the Blue Raiders 87–63. On Saturday, Feb. 13, the Tigers battled it out with Cumberland University (Tenn.) and picked up an 81–74 win with an out-
Photo submitted by West Osborn
West Osborn and Jennifer Gelatt both won first place awards this weekend.
standing performance by senior Noah Cottrill. Last but not least, the women’s Lacrosse Team is receiving high praise and respect after its Top 3 Finish in the NWLL a year ago. The Tigers come in ranking No. 2 in the Coaches’ Polls in the preseason. Coach Brandon Davis said, “This ranking shows the respect we earned this past year going 12–4 and finishing third in the NWLL. Now we have to prove we are worthy of this.” Georgetown College has definitely earned its respect this past week in the realm of athletics. Make sure to check out all of next week’s games. You can find them listed on page 5. (Source: Georgetowncollegeathletics.com; Georgetowncollege.edu/ equine–scholars)
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Sports & Recreation
February 17, 2016 Page 5
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK – JOSH CLAY By MEGAN NORRIS Staff Writer This week’s Athlete of the Week is senior tennis player Josh Clay. Josh is from Huntington, West Va., and has played tennis for Georgetown College for four years. Josh has been playing tennis since sixth grade, and this year marks his 10th year of playing tennis. He typically plays number five or six for singles and occasionally number 3 for doubles on the team. “It’s exciting. I love the team,” says Clay. “The interesting thing about it is that each year brings with it a different atmosphere since we get new freshmen, and now, the seniors are graduating.” Josh says he is hopeful about the upcoming season and that he and the team are
taking a lot of steps to improve outside. Our tennis schedule their game and really grow sometimes varies dependcloser together. “We have set ing on the weather. When it’s personal goals that we feel colder, we practice indoors at are more than obtainable,” said Josh. “A few of them include beating a top 25 ranked team in the NAIA, as well as working towards getting a higher team GPA, and working with our doubles game–play.” However, just because Josh is an athlete does not mean he isn’t a student first. Josh is a chemistry major and psychology minor. When asked about his classes, Josh said, “My classes don’t typically interfere with my tennis schedule. I have classes during the day usually until 1 or 2, and then tennis practice starts at Photo submitted by Megan Norris 4 when the weather is nice
Tigers will honor basketball alum By DOUG MOLLETT Sports Editor The 1995–1996 men’s basketball team had a record of 36–3, and they went on to win a national championship. That season, the Tigers won their first 14 games. Their longest winning streak was 16 games. Their appearance in the NAIA Tournament was their first of three championships in five years. Members of that team include Jermaine Brown, Shannon Hoskins, Scott Schoen,
David Shee, Jason Gullett, Ben Sams, Mike Deaton, Johnny Ray Williams, Todd Cox, Billy Ray Fawns, Ricky Ward, Mitchell Dunn, Drew Powers, Josh Mendez, John Jackson and Jackie Steele. The coaching staff that year wasas follows: Jim Reid, Happy Osborne, Keith Griesser and Jason Mays with a support staff of John Blackburn, Mitch Crawford and Terry Mauer. On Saturday, Feb. 20, members from that championship team will be recognized at half–time of the Tiger’s basketball game against Life Univer-
sity. Tip–off is at 2 p.m. Come cheer on your current Tigers (23–3), while honoring the 20th reunion of the 1995–96 team. (Source: Georgetowncollegeathletics.com)
courts in Lexington, and sometimes we do workouts in the Rec when it’s cold, too.” After graduation, Josh plans to attend either West Virginia University or the University of Louisville for graduate school in the fall to study chemistry. Furthermore, Josh’s involvement in Georgetown’s community doesn’t stop at athletics or academics. Outside of tennis, Josh is a member
of American Chemistry Society (ACS), a participant of the Emerging Leaders Program and has been working with Orientation for the past couple of years as a leader and this past year as a coordinator. He was a member of GCPALS, which enabled him to do research through the program. Josh is also a proud member of the President’s House Association (PHA). When asked who has helped him gain some of his successes, he said, “Michael Cunningham, the men’s tennis coach has been a great mentor to me. He’s always available for help on and off the court and if one of us ever needs anything. He’s more than willing to sit down and help us.”
Upcoming Sporting Events (Home events denoted by **)
Feb. 18 Women’s Lacrosse @ SCAD (12 p.m.) Feb. 18 Softball vs. Pikeville (2 p.m.)** Feb. 18 Baseball @ Lindsey Wilson (4 p.m.) Feb. 18 Women’s Basketball vs. Berea College (6 p.m.)** Feb. 19 Baseball @ Lindsey Wilson (12 p.m.) Feb. 19 Softball vs. Pikeville (12 p.m.)** Feb. 20 Men’s Basketball vs. Life University (2 p.m.)** Feb. 21 Baseball @ Asbury University (4 p.m.) Feb. 22 Softball vs. U of the Cumberlands (3 p.m.)** Feb. 22 Baseball vs. U of the Cumberlands (5 p.m.)**
Features SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: KRISTEN ROBINSON
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By BAILEE BOGGESS Staff Writer Kristen Robinson, a senior from Frankfort, Ky., is graduating this spring. When entering her freshman year, she knew from the moment she stepped onto campus that she would do great things within this institution. Her passion for Georgetown has shown through each extracurricular activity that she has chosen to be a part of, and she plans to continue to spread that love for Georgetown after graduation. Kristen will be graduating with an elementary education major and a music minor. She hopes to land a teaching job while pursuing a Master’s degree in Administration.
The Georgetonian
Eventually, after teaching for some years, she hopes to land a career as a principal. She has already started getting involved with the local schools in Georgetown’s community, and currently works in the after school program at Lemons Mill Elementary School. Her outgoing personality and love for children will no doubt allow her to succeed in this position and other ones in the future. As for being involved at Georgetown, Kristen was a singer for the Chorale for three out of her four years here. She was the president of KEA, the Kentucky Education Association student chapter at Georgetown. Kristen is also heavily
involved with the Greek community and is a member of Sigma Kappa where she has served as Vice President of Communications, Vice President of Finance and the Music Chair. As far as achievements go, Kristen won Belle of the Blue her freshman year and represented Georgetown College at the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival. As her time at Georgetown comes to an end, Kristen has reflected upon the many wonderful years and experiences that she has had during her time here. She wishes that she could never leave and stay here forever. According to her, coming to Georgetown was the best decision that she has ever made.
Photo submitted by Bailee Boggess
Kristen, who currently works at a local elementary school, hopes to be a school principal someday.
In the know with Sodexo: Chick-fil-A and Wicked Wings By MEGAN NORRIS Sodexo Marketing Intern You asked for it, and Sodexo listened! From 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Monday through Friday, Chick–Fil–A will now be served in the Mulberry Café. You can enjoy Chick–Fil–A sandwiches, nuggets and waffle fries. It is important to note, however, that Tiger Dollars are not accepted; only cash, credit, and money from your G-card is accepted for the Chick–Fil–A service. This week, Sodexo has a few events planned that might be intriguing to you. On Thursday, Feb. 18, check
Photo submitted by Megan Norris
out the popcorn bar at the Late Night Grille. There will be an assortment of flavors of popcorns that you can try, as well as toppings you can add yourself! Excited about Taco Tuesday? What about Taco Mondays? On Monday, Feb. 22, Sodexo will be serving tacos for lunch. Last, but certainly not least,
watch out for a special event in the Caf: Wicked Wings. Much like the event BBQ Blues that Sodexo hosted in January, this event is called an “Elite Event” which means you get more bang for your buck. For dinner in the Caf that evening, you have the option to choose between a regular meal swipe or a meal swipe plus a few Tiger Dollars for this dining
experience. For this meal, you will get to choose between a few different sauces for your wings, as well as some great sides. Look out for more details about this menu on Facebook and Twitter. Did you know that you can glance at what will be served in the Caf in advance? Check out georgetowncollege.sodexomyway.com. Want to stay updated with events and promotions associated with Sodexo? As the new marketing intern, I am helping to implement a new program called “mydtxt.” This is a mass text system that will provide students promotional texts, coupons and information
about upcoming events and meals in the Caf. For special offers and discounts, text “GeorgetownEats” to 82257. For more information about dining events and meals at the late night grille, text “GeorgetownEvents” to 82257. To give feedback to Sodexo, text “GeorgetownFeedback” plus your feedback to 82257. Don’t want to commit to text messages? That’s okay, too. You can keep up with Georgetown College Sodexo on social media. Check us out on Facebook and Twitter. On Facebook, look for Georgetown College Dining, and on Twitter, follow us @CafDiningatGT.
Issue 4
Features SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: HANNAH KENNEDY
February 17, 2016 Page 7
By ALEX CAUDILL
“One of the most beautiful nights I’ve had at Georgetown was at the closing of Hanging of the Green sophomore year as it began to snow while all of campus sang ‘Silent Night,’” she said. “I also loved going to Newport, Ky., with my professor and the theatre crew to see a play, after which we enjoyed fireworks on the river,” she continued. Hannah said she will especially miss her professors because they all have inspired her. She said, “You can tell
Staff Writer Senior Hannah Kennedy of Lawrenceburg, Ky., had no trouble finding her home at Georgetown College. Hannah, an English major, enjoyed the beauty of campus and was instantly welcomed by students and faculty members, so she knew she had found her new home. “I had a teacher and mentor, who was a Georgetown alum, who recommended the College and its strong education program to me,” she said. Hannah is graduating with a theatre minor as well as a philosophy minor. Hannah has been active in a variety of areas on campus, especially in the theater where she has been involved in nearly every Maskrafter production since her freshmen year. She is currently the president of the Maskrafters, which is the oldest collegiate theatre troupe in Kentucky. Hannah is the Resident Director at Rucker Village and a member of the Alpha Psi Omega theatre honor society. Hannah will also graduate with honors as a member of Harper Gatton and the Chris-
Photo submitted by Alex Caudill
Hannah, who has been involved in theatre since her freshman year, wants to teach English and theatre after graduation. tian Leaders Scholars. Hannah plans to enroll in the Graduate School of Education at Georgetown College to get her teaching certificate and Master’s of Education. She hopes to be an English and theatre teacher. “I have had so many great memories at Georgetown, most of which have been in the theater, and my favorite production was Almost, Maine,” said Hannah. “I loved learning the day I learned to use a drill in the theater from Professor Pick-
ering.” Hannah named several favorite professors, one of which was Professor Pickering, in addition to Professor George McGee who first enticed her to join the theater after she took an acting class with him. Dr. Henkel and Dr. Sands Wise were the other two favorites that she mentioned. “I became a philosophy minor because of Dr. Sands Wise!” said Hannah. Some of Hannah’s favorite memories include nights spent watching movies with friends.
they really love their work and are passionate about what they do.” As someone who has been involved in several areas of campus life, Hannah’s advice was to “try everything!” A friend to many and a true Tiger, Hannah encouraged others to get involved. “Involvement on campus makes your Georgetown experience so much more meaningful and it brings campus to life,” she said.
Quote My Georgetown Professor “Love is not found at the Cracker Barrel.” - Dr. Hutchinson Posted on the “Quote My Georgetown Professor” Facebook group
Georgetown Tree Huggers
Photo submitted by Megan Norris
This week’s dining calendar features a popcorn bar on Thursday and an event called “Wicked Wings” the following Wednesday.
The Georgetonian/WHITNEY BRYAN
This week’s Tree Hugger is sophomore Bailee Boggess.
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ArtsEntertainment
The Georgetonian
Brockhampton is ready to take the scene By ROSS SMITH Staff Writer The history of hip–hop is riddled with famous collectives: N.W.A., Run– D.M.C., Public Enemy, Odd Future. One collective you may be hearing about soon is Brockhampton, but this self–proclaimed “All American Boy Band” isn’t your typical rap group. Based out of a home in San Marco, Texas, these young artists have proven to be much more complex. While I was unable to discern exactly who all the members of Brockhampton are, it is clear that the head is teenage rapper Kevin Abstract. Recording music since he was 14, Abstract has already developed a unique style utilizing synth vocals over trap beats. Drawing influence from artists
like Kanye West, Frank Ocean and Kid Cudi, Abstract’s lyrics portray him as a similarly different artist who feels trapped by society’s limitations and the Internet. The buzz surrounding Abstract started generating in 2014 when he released his first solo studio album “MTV1987.” The project features the powerful leading hit “Drugs” enhanced by its music video which the group recorded in a Wal– Mart. Abstract’s upcoming sophomore album “They Shoot Horses” is set to be released sometime in 2016. While Abstract holds down the rap verses in most of Brockhampton’s music, Matt Champion blesses the tracks with some excellent trap–RnB features, creating solo singles as well. When it comes to following artist activity, nobody has me more confused and
intrigued than Matt Champion. His songs “El Dorado” and “Burn” access a stimulating, fresh sound, even though the production value is not incredible. I’ve enjoyed every song he’s put out. That being said, he’s only put out five songs since he started in 2014, which has always left me wondering if he’s up to something big. Excitingly, my prayers seem to have been answered, as he recently put out the song “Punks” and tweeted an announcement that he will be releasing his freshman album of the same name before this summer. While artists like Kevin Abstract and Matt Champion do impressive work for the group musically, several other members provide a wide range of creative talents that influence the ensemble. With the help of in–house
graphic designers, videographers and producers, Brockhampton has had no problem handling every aspect of creativity in their entrance into the music scene. I have faith that 2016 will find the emergence of at least a couple of successful hip–hop artists involved with Brockhampton. With two upcoming albums, I’m very excited to see what this year holds for the collective. You can find all of Brockhampton, Kevin Abstract and Matt Champion’s music free on Soundcloud and Spotify.
“The Forest” is America’s version of Japanese horror By JACQUELINE KNIGHT Staff Writer When the first trailers for “The Forest” began popping up, I knew I would see it. The movie stars Natalie Dormer, known for her roles in “Game of Thrones” and “Hunger Games,” and it comes from the same studio as “Insidious: Chapter 3,” both promising. More than that, however, I was drawn in by the location. The Aokigahara “Suicide” Forest is an ancient Japanese forest less than 100 miles from the cutting–edge city of Tokyo. This vast span of wilderness is famous for its astonishing suicide rates; there are 442 recorded deaths in just the past 18 years. Even the officials of the forest admit that the real number is most likely even higher, but the wilderness is so dense that the bodies are never found.
This location was created for a onist without provocation to provide horror film, breathing atmosphere and a cheap scare. Japanese school girls drama without any effort. And now, are scattered about with no rhyme or with a heavy heart, I will reason, such as when they tell you how this movie are lurking outside the nearly ruined it. forest in the middle of the In this film set in day without teachers or Japan, what we see most parents in sight. It’s as if are white people. Sara, they made a movie in the and American, searches United States and then in for her twin sister, Jess, editing added Japanese stealso played by Dormer, reotypes from a ‘60s Bond after she goes missing in film. The only interesting the forest. She is guided Source: Flickr.com part of them is their ridicby a handsome Austra- Seems like there is ulousness, which even then lian named Aiden, who something off about is bland and white–washed slips between dreamy and this particular forest. by poor direction and flat slimy so often he might as protagonists. well be playing two charMichi, played by Yukiacters too. yoshi Ozawa, is the rare breath of air. The few scenes Japanese characters His character is based on actual Aokiare given come off as insane, such as gahara forest employees who walk one where one jumps out at our protag- through the deep forest to find those
considering suicide in order to comfort them and also to bring back bodies of the deceased to their families. This character is played brilliantly as a man with compassion for Sara’s plight, but also aware that Jess, in all reality, is already dead. When Sara and Aiden encourage him to leave while they continue searching for Jess, I was truly sorry. Everything that follows is loud and obnoxious, stampeding over the quiet terror of the ancient forest. As I sat in the theater, most of these sad attempts at a reaction were met with silence. However, every now and then, they would engage a genuine laugh. The fact that the writer felt the need to “westernize” what could have been a compelling Japanese film with watered down twists and two second suspense is unfortunate. Instead of another “Blair Witch Project,” the audience gets
ArtsEntertainment “Deadpool” takes over the big screen Issue 4
By KATE DOCTOR Staff Writer This past Valentine’s Day weekend, yet another Marvel superhero movie was released unto the world. However, this was not just any Marvel movie. Oh no, we are talking about “Deadpool.” This wise–cracking, fourth–wall breaking antihero did surprisingly well for opening weekend, especially given its R rating. Typically R–rated films do not do so well, so it was pleasant to see it leading in sale for not just R–rated movies in the opening weekend, but leading ahead some other movies that came out this weekend as well. As a matter of fact, it is worth noting that “Deadpool” has one of the highest opening weekend gross sales of any R–rated movie
ever. That is pretty much all I can say Without spoiling anything, “Dead- without spoiling the entire film and pool” is about a wise–cracking merce- giving away some surprises. Trust me, nary named Wade if you like crude Wilson who is humor, you’ll want diagnosed with late to go see it yourstage cancer. He self. I can’t deliver tries to play it off as it like Ryan Reynbeing okay, crackolds (who plays ing his usual jokes. Deadpool) can. But his girlfriend, So what is it Vanessa, is worried about “Deadpool” Source: Youtube.com and clearly scared. that attracted Wade is even- Everybody’s favorite man in a red flocks of movie tually offered a suit. goers? Well, one chance to not only could say it was be cured of his partially due to the cancer, but become a superhero as well. fact that it was a Marvel movie (which Wanting to stay alive for Vanessa and likely was a big factor for many), but not put her through the pain of losing it is also the hero himself. Deadpool is him, he decides to go for it. pretty well known for his humor and—
February 17, 2016 Page 9
ahem—habits as a hero. He breaks the fourth wall in many of his comics as well as in this movie, cracking jokes from the get–go even in the opening credits of the film (going so far as to call the director an “overpaid tool”). Perhaps it is also because he is very relatable and not your typical superhero. He is not morally perfect like most of these other heroes in their movies. He has his own slightly askew moral compass, and combines that with his own sense of humor. He is very relatable in this way. Deadpool is not a perfect, or even a noble, hero, and that is what makes him great. So if you like crude humor, great action and an atypical hero, “Deadpool” is the movie to watch.
Game of the week: Yu–Gi–Oh By JOHN WAITE Staff Writer For the people who don’t know me, I am a big fan of “Yu–Gi–Oh!” and I play competitively. I’ve been playing this game for fun since I was 5, and I’ve loved every bit of it. Let’s continue our theme of celebrating anniversaries by talking about this 20 year old franchise. “Yu–Gi–Oh!” is trading card game (or TCG for short) that centers around summoning monsters, activating spells and traps and having fun. Unlike “Magic: The Gathering,” you don’t need manna to bring out cards. You can just activate them whenever, or when the rules state that you can. You also have a minimum of 40 cards and a maximum of 60 cards in a deck. I would go over more of the rules of the game in the article, but it would take up around
three pages if I did. I have met so many awesome people If you are interested in playing the while playing this game. I actually met game, you can buy some pre–made my roommate through this game. He, decks at stores like Walmart which and another friend, are the main reason include an instruction booklet. Since why I started to play. I can’t really I’ve been to explain the gamea lot of tournaplay as much as I ments, only winwould like, I’ll ning one, but share some stogetting into the ries of the game top 8 in a few I love. others. I love this One thing game so much. At I will say right the time I’m writaway is that the ing this, I have Source: Youtube.com game is not fair around 5,000 Look at that ridiculous hair. Obviously a at times. There is cards that I’ve card gard anime. always someone collected over better than you. the 15 years that I’ve been playing the Even if you’re playing the best deck, game. I have spent more money on this you can still be beaten if you don’t game than I care to admit. However, know what you’re doing. I take this
game seriously, but not too seriously. I like to show off a lot. Sometimes I can make it work and I win; other times, I crash and burn. That’s true with any game you play, though. I am a budget completive player, being a poor college student and all. I find that to play the best, you have to think and dig harder to find out what works, but it’s worth it. “Yu–Gi–Oh!” is one of my favorite games of all time. I would love to see more people play the game. I recommend this game for anyone who likes strategy. This game can take a lot of thought, but it is really fun to play. You can learn more about the game from the “Yu–Gi–Oh!” web site at www. yugioh–card.com. You can buy “Yu– Gi–Oh!” cards from Walmart, K–mart, GameStop, Target, Toys–R–Us and local card shops.
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Georgetonian
Opinion
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Cruz tweets on Scalia’s passing
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By WILLIAM THOMAS Opinion Columnist Antonin Scalia, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, died unexpectedly of natural causes at 79 this week on a hunting trip to Texas. Scalia was appointed in 1986 by Ronald Reagan and served for 30 years. Scalia was known as a giant in the judicial philosophy known as originalism, which advocates for a strict approach to interpreting the Constitution as it was originally intended. This is the opposite approach of those who view the Constitution as a “living, breathing” document that should be interpreted with the changing of times and culture. He is also remembered for his strong conservative views on various issues including states’ rights, separation of powers, abortion and LGBTQ issues. Certainly, Scalia was seen as a staunch opponent for Democrats pushing those issues. Since Scalia’s death, there has been an incredible amount of debate concerning the appointment of his replacement. The Constitution lays out the guidelines for appointing a new Supreme Court Justice as the responsibility of the President, with approval needed by the Senate. Unfortunately, many (mainly Republican) public figures and members of the Senate have encouraged President Obama to allow the next President to nominate Scalia’s replacement. Sen. and Republican Presidential hopeful Ted
Cruz tweeted shortly after learning of Scalia’s death, “Justice Scalia was an American hero. We owe it to him, & the Nation, for the Senate to ensure that the next President names his replacement.” He later vowed to filibuster the vote on “absolutely” any of President Obama’s nominations. I certainly sympathize with Cruz and his Source: Wikipedia.org desire to nominate the Justice Antonin Scalia’s death next Supreme Court has sparked much debate about Justice in accordance the process of appointing his sucwith his personal views. cessor. He has an image in his head of how this country should be run, and he under- simultaneously wants to honor stands that a Supreme Court Scalia and disregard his philosJustice leaning in his favor will ophy on Constitutional interhelp him do that. pretation. It is also a shame However, the most obvi- that Cruz himself wishes to ous problem with Cruz’s plea forfeit his duties as a Senator is that it twice defies the Con- and Presidential candidate to stitution. It suppresses the advise and approve a Supreme idea that the current President Court nomination. should nominate any Supreme I simply cannot bring Court Justice, and it goes on to myself to sympathize with deny the Senate their duty to Cruz for objecting to the text of vote on the President’s nomi- the United States Constitution. nee. For such a staunch conservaFor a man who so desper- tive, it is appalling to see him ately wants to honor Scalia, a make those remarks. strict Constitutional originalThough I disagree with ist, it is incredibly ironic that many of Scalia’s decisions in Cruz wants to ignore the Con- the highest Court of the land, stitution’s guidelines on nom- I do respect his adherence to inations. He does not want what he believed to be right to fulfill the wishes of Justice and best for the nation. I only Scalia to adhere as closely as hope that the rest of us can do possible to the original intent the same. May he rest in peace. of the text. Rather, he seems to want to completely disregard what the text reads in order to gain a partisan advantage. It is a shame that Cruz
Opinion
Issue 4
February 17, 2016 Page 11
Beyoncé steals Super Bowl halftime show By BAILEE BOGGESS Staff Writer On Feb. 7, the 50th annual Super Bowl took place with the Patriots and the Broncos. Star players added to their achievements while young players won on the big stage for the first time. However, in addition to the celebration of the football team winning and the excitement surrounding it, there was also a large controversy surrounding the halftime act. Artists Coldplay, Beyoncé and Bruno Mars made appearances and performed their top songs. While Coldplay and Bruno Mars had spectacular performances, most of the media attention has been directed
toward Beyoncé’s focus on her newly released song (that came out on Saturday), “Formation.” If you watch the music video, it focuses on African–American culture and has several frank comments integrated into the lyrics. It includes references to the recent police brutality claims against young African–American men and women and civil rights in general. Her performance did just the same, and even had her backup dancers in outfits that resembled those of the Black Panther party. Critics of this performance claim that it is racist, unbecoming and, overall, an embarrassing public statement from the African–American community. They say it is dis-
criminatory against those who are supposedly committing the actions, and that it only enforces stereotypes already being set in place by the actions of those involved. However, if this is racist, embarrassing, unbecoming and discriminatory….who is it against? Millions of protests and performances to raise awareness are done each year, and one always seems to manage to become a scapegoat for an opposing view. This year’s Super Bowl halftime show just happened to become the one that fit the mold, quite perfectly. In fact, I think it’s quite great that a celebrity as famous as Beyoncé had the guts to get on stage, on national televi-
sion, and perform something with such a strong message. This is not only a strong point for African–Americans, but also to women. If people— both famous and everyday citizens—do not stand up for what they believe in, issues such “Black Lives Matter,” “White Lives Matter,” and “All Lives Matter” would fall hurriedly under the dust of society. As for the outfits worn by the dancers, it is not unreasonable to think that they represented anything but a political party in history. They contributed to the overall theme and message of the show, and the performance was not meant to be directed as a hate message toward Caucasian Americans.
In fact, many have claimed that Beyoncé’s own outfit was a statement toward Malcolm X and is the main contributor in the controversy. With some simple research, it can be seen that it was a tribute to Michael Jackson, which fits in with the rest of the tributes done at the halftime show. Simply put, this performance was a work of art created to demonstrate ideals felt by the African–American community within the American culture. Instead of critiquing and criticizing something that obviously has a very powerful message, our society should wonder what has been done to require such a performance to be aired on national television in the first place.
Plastic damages the planet gravely
By TAYLOR BURCHETT Staff Writer
Let’s talk about plastic. Every piece ever made is still in existence on Earth today. Every. Single. Piece. The staggering amount made since World War II is enough to wrap the entire planet in plastic wrap. Scientists do not know when, or even if, all this plastic will go away. Some are now saying that, in the future, there will be plastic in the fossil record. We are filling our world—our home— with a harmful substance that will not go away in our lifetime. This substance poses a
major threat to the ocean. Massive patches of garbage accumulate and float in several areas, but some garbage also sinks to the bottom of the ocean floor. Why is this a problem? For starters, it is beginning to enter our food chain. As plastic pollutes the ocean, it absorbs the toxic chemicals that we also carelessly dump into the water. The plastic breaks down into smaller pieces and is then mistaken for food by sea creatures. Fish eat toxic plastic. We eat fish. See the problem here? Sea turtles get plastic straws and forks stuck in their noses. Seabirds mistake plastic for fish and also eat fish that ate plastic. All kinds of crea-
tures find themselves tangled in abandoned plastic fishing nets, unable to navigate the sea and get to food. You might think recycling is the answer, but it really is not. Recycling programs are not efficient enough to handle our throwaway culture and obsession with single–use plastic. But you should definitely still recycle because every little bit helps. A better option than recycling is not using plastic at all. The best way we can help Earth is to make a lifestyle change. Specifically, stop using plastic, especially single–use items. Avoid straws. You do not need to use a straw when you eat in the Caf, and you can
politely decline straws when you go out to eat. Take reusable bags when you go shopping. Use bars of soap instead of bottled soap. Always use real cutlery instead of plastic. Yes, that means you might have to do dishes more often, but the water you use to wash real silverware is nothing compared to the amount of water it takes to create new plastic. It is a good idea to take your own containers to the Caf when you are getting food to– go. You might think you look ridiculous carrying Tupperware around, but what people think of you means absolutely nothing compared to saving the environment. One massive change every-
one can make is to invest in a good reusable water bottle instead of buying cases of water from Wal–Mart. There are plenty of water fountains all over campus where you can refill a nice bottle over and over. Besides, why pay for water when you can get it for free from the sink? With some effort, we can eliminate plastic from our lives and prevent more of it from harming Earth. Lifestyle changes like this are never easy, but the result—ensuring future generations can enjoy a healthy planet—will be worth it. Say no to plastic!
T H E B A C K PA G E Wake me up when February ends By Raleigh Dixon BackPage Editor As the youngest of three brothers, I have had the benefit of growing and learning by watching, observing and, on occasions, imitating the actions that my brothers have taken before me. Naturally, I have made sure, to the best of my abilities, to recognize the mistakes that they have made in their lives. This has proven particularly useful in the relationship I have had with my parents. To this end, I have done my very best to tip–toe around getting in actual trouble or unnecessarily upsetting them. I have used this experience in my everyday life to know which buttons to press and when it may be a little too much. Last year, I earned a reputation among some of the upperclassmen in the PHA house as the “luckiest freshman alive.” This was due to my proclivity to find myself in situations that were at best unfavorable and at worst dire, yet somehow manage to come out unscathed if not outright on top. I wore this title as a sort of badge of honor, yet I would be remiss to accept such compliments without giving credit to my older brothers. Another aspect of my life that I can greatly attribute to my brothers is my taste in music. The eldest of these, Perry, is a Georgetown alum who also did his best to ruffle feathers on the BackPage of this fine publication. The room that I currently reside in at the PHA house received its nickname from his taste in music during his college years that I knew from him driving me to school in my prepubescent years. I have done my best to ensure that the Emo Room has continued to live up to its name: If you ever hear Secondhand Serenade in the night–time air on any given weekend night you can rest assured that it is most likely coming out of my window. This also explains my method for
removing people from my room when I am ready to go to sleep. A playlist may go from a popular favorite such as Fetty Wap’s “679” to a more faux–hipstery jam such as “Little Talks” by Of Monsters and Men, and then eventually settle to a classic throwback to the tunings of bands such as Dashboard Confessional, Taking Back Sunday or a sadder Motioncity Soundtrack song. As the playlist continues to get increasingly angsty and/or sappy, the seeming hoards of sober students in my room trickle out one by one. Inevitably, there are always a few who manage not to take the hint (even when I throw on “Closing Time” by Semisonic). At this point I politely and bluntly ask them to vacate the premises so that I might enjoy a good night’s sleep. The best part of all of this is that I get to simultaneously control the flow of traffic in my room and enjoy the music that I grew up listening to with my brother. Now at some time or another, Perry listened to a modest amount of Green Day. When you consider the fact that my first mp3 player was a hand–me– down iPod shuffle of Perry’s, it is safe to infer that I listened to Green Day in elementary school as well. “Wake Me Up When September Ends” was one of Green Day’s biggest hits off of its album “American Idiot.” I listened to it almost every day for a solid year and had no idea what it actually meant; I just wanted to be cool and Green Day seemed like the most logical and pragmatic means to achieve that end. However, as I am now a good eleven years older than I was the first time I heard it, I feel like I have a better understanding of what Billy Joe Armstrong is trying to communicate through his somber song: sometimes a month just really sucks. Before I go any further I have to make two side notes: (1) Valentine’s
Day falls outside of the overall tone of February for me this year because I got to spend it with someone who makes me very happy, and (2) I am currently staring out the window into a dreary, grey, cloudy sky while I try not to gag on all the mucus draining into my throat as a result of my ongoing battle with a sinus infection (which is not helping me have too many cheery thoughts). That being said, I am 100% ready for February to be over. This is for a number of reasons. First of all, this weather has been absolutely miserable. We have had a steady diet of snow, sleet, freezing rain, bitter winds and frigid temperatures. Yet there have been momentary lapses where Mother Nature has played practical jokes on the population of Georgetown by throwing a couple of fifty–degree days to tease us into thinking that winter is over. It then proceeded to promptly throw a polar vortex our way that makes walking to class seem like a scene out of “The Day After Tomorrow” (I strongly recommend watching it while wrapped in a blanket and sipping hot chocolate). I am no scientist, and have no idea how much the weather correlates with human health, but potential logical fallacies aside, it seems that with this weather has come a wave of sickness across campus. Alas, I too have fallen victim to the seemingly unceasing assault on my upper respiratory system that plagues an ever–growing percentage of Georgetown College’s student population. No matter how much Mucinex and Benadryl that I throw at it, I just cannot seem to rid my body of this pesky bug. I am, therefore, placing my hope for wellness in the coming warmth of Spring that March will bring. Seasonally unfortunate natural events aside, February has not been the greatest source of joy for me either.
Standing on the sidelines, I have gotten to watch as Greek fraternities and sororities on campus have welcomed new members to join their ranks. Meanwhile, I get to relish the fact that PHA will not be granted the same happiness for another calender year. I am also currently feeling like Humpty Dumpty teetering on the wall that is my life. There is never a time in the day where I can sit with the content knowledge that there is nothing that I have to do. Three classes for my major, including an Oxford Tutorial, have left me with a perpetual stack of readings that seems to only grow the further I get into it. Believe me when I tell you that there is a finite limit to the amount of international political theory that one can put into one’s head before it explodes. I am also dealing with the perpetual trials and tribulations that go along with being a truly broke college student. It is a very unique feeling to have under $2 in your combined checking and saving accounts for weeks on end. I like to think that I live out the phrase “ballin’ on a budget” better than has ever been done in human history, but then again I could always be kidding myself. At least I collect a minimum wage check from Georgetown College once a month. While I understand that a good deal of this sounds like whining, and that would probably be a fair assessment, I believe that there are a multitude of students on Georgetown’s campus who can relate to my struggles (whatever struggles I can have as a cis–gendered white male anyway). So, due to the fact that February is wearing me down and that my birthday and Spring Break both happen next month, I have but one request: wake me up when February ends.