arts page 20
FORUM Reconsider abolishing the penny 12
LAYERS OF LATEX
SPORTS Women’s tennis wins big at Bates 16 The Independent Student Newspaper
the
of
B r a n d e is U n i v e r sit y S i n c e 1 9 4 9
Justice
Volume LXIV, Number 25
www.thejustice.org
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
MARCHING FOR TRAYVON MARTIN
board of trustees
Student costs to increase next year ■ The Board of Trustees
approved the 2013 fiscal budget, which includes tuition hikes and more investments. By robyn spector JUSTICE editor
The University administration announced yesterday that the Board of Trustees approved the budget for fiscal 2013, which includes a 4.1 percent total cost hike for current students and a reduced size for the class of 2016 to between 800 and 820 students. Financial aid will also increase by
United for justice commencement
Deborah Bial ’87 will address 2012 graduates
ARTS 19
Sen, Joseph Polisi and Myra Kraft will be receiving honorary degrees with Bial. By SARA DEJENE JUSTICE EDITOR
Founder and President of the Posse Foundation Deborah Bial ’87 will deliver the 2012 commencement address on May 20, announced University President Frederick Lawrence at the Board of Trustees meeting this week, according to a March 28 BrandeisNOW press release. Bial will receive an honorary degree from the University, as will Nobel Prize recipients Sydney Brenner and Amartya Sen; President of the Juilliard School Joseph Polisi; and philanthropist and former Trustee Myra Hiatt Kraft ’64, who passed away last July. The Posse Foundation is a “college access and youth leadership development program” that sends small
Lawrence has started to fulfill a long-term vision
groups of diverse students from several cities to selective colleges each year, according to its website. The program aims to accomplish three goals, according to its website: to encourage these Bial institutions to accept students of various backgrounds, to create “welcoming” environments for these students at these universities and to see to it that these students, who may have otherwise not attended college or have dropped out, graduate from college. The Science Posse program was recognized as an “effective program to bring under-represented, urban students from diverse backgrounds to college and help them graduate,” according to a Feb. 7 press release from the White House. In an interview with the Justice,
By sam mintz JUSTICE editor
O
n March 31, 2011, Frederick Lawrence was inaugurated as the eighth president of Brandeis University. He succeeded President Emeritus Jehuda Reinharz, a man who made a large impact on the University, despite the financial issues that the University struggled with, including controversy over the closing of the Rose Art Museum. At his inauguration, Lawrence announced that “in the coming months, I will work
with you to develop a strategic vision with concrete plans to secure Brandeis’s place as an elite global liberal arts university.” Lawrence has made significant progress in fulfilling this promise. He has succeeded in initiating a planning process, as well as beginning to secure Brandeis’ place as an elite global university, through networking and connection with universities and institutions all over the world. However, one concern remains: whether he will be able to match the impressive fundraising abilities of Reinharz.
See LAWRENCE, 4 ☛
See COMMENCEMENT, 7 ☛
Recreational art
Making history
Pool parts stolen
Maayan Bar-Yam ’12 installed red swings around campus for students as part of his senior thesis for Studio Arts.
Brandeis Athletics inducted six new athletes at the 14th annual Hall of Fame Induction last Saturday at Gosman.
The pool was closed on Thursday and Friday while the stolen parts were replaced.
FEATURES 9
For tips or info email editor@thejustice.org
See BUDGET, 7 ☛
first year
Students, administrators and other members of the community gathered together on Thursday and Friday to discuss the killing of Trayvon Martin and honor his memory.
Childish Gambino, fun., PHANTOGRAM TO PERFORM AT SpringFest 2012
seven percent, or $5.5 million. Other changes include offering new first-year living options and new first-year seminars, improving campus resources such as advising and career counseling, and supplementing Library and Technology Services and the Rose Art Museum. Senior Vice President for Students and Enrollment Andrew Flagel emailed the student body last night about the changes to the $306.7 million budget. “Chief among this year’s concerns was moderating the growth of our student body, both lowering the
Fred’s
JON EDELSTEIN/the Justice
■ Sydney Brenner, Amartya
Waltham, Mass.
Let your voice be heard! Submit letters to the editor online at www.thejustice.org
INDEX
SPORTS 14
ARTS SPORTS
17 13
EDITORIAL FEATURES
10 8
OPINION POLICE LOG
10 2
News 3 COPYRIGHT 2012 FREE AT BRANDEIS. Email managing@thejustice.org for home delivery.
2
TUESDAY, APRIL 3, 2012
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THE JUSTICE
NEWS AP BRIEF
DOMA goes to Mass. appeals court BOSTON—A legal battle over a law that denies federal benefits to married gay couples is headed to a federal appeals court in Massachusetts, the first state in the nation to legalize gay marriage. The federal Defense of Marriage Act, enacted by Congress in 1996, defines marriage as a union between a man and a woman and prevents the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriages. A federal judge in Massachusetts declared a key section of the law unconstitutional in 2010 after Attorney General Martha Coakley and the legal group Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders sued. Judge Joseph Tauro found that the law is unconstitutional because it interferes with the right of a state to define marriage and denies gay married couples an array of federal benefits given to heterosexual married couples, including the ability to file joint tax returns. An appeal by the congressionally supported Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group will be heard Wednesday by the federal appeals court in Boston. Since the national law was passed in 1996, many states have instituted their own bans on gay marriage, while eight states have approved gay marriage: Connecticut, New York, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maryland and Washington as well as the District of Columbia. Maryland’s and Washington’s laws are not yet in effect and may be subject to referendums. In Massachusetts’ lawsuit, Coakley argued that the law violates the U.S. Constitution by interfering with the state’s right to make its own marriage laws and forces the state to violate the constitutional rights of its residents by treating married gay couples differently than other married couples. “We essentially have to keep two sets of books—you’re married for state purposes, but you’re not married for federal purposes. It requires us, in a way, to discriminate against our citizens because so many federal benefits are distributed through state agencies,” Coakley said Friday. In GLAD’s lawsuit, Tauro found that the law violates the equal protection clause of the U.S. Constitution. In 2011, President Barack Obama announced that the U.S. Department of Justice would no longer defend the constitutionality of the law. After that, House Speaker John Boehner convened the Bipartisan Legal Advisory Group to defend it. Paul Clement, the Washington lawyer who argued before the U.S. Supreme Court this week on behalf of 26 states that oppose Obama’s health care law, will argue on behalf of the bipartisan group in the DOMA case. In legal briefs filed in court, Clement argues that the challenges to the law appear to be based on the claim that Congress has no legitimate interest in providing a federal definition of marriage and has no choice but to adopt the state definition. “Congress has ample power to define the terms used in federal statutes to apportion federal benefits and burdens. Any other rule would turn the Supremacy Clause and our entire constitutional structure upside down.”
POLICE LOG Medical Emergency
March 27—A party in the Physics building stated that he had a laceration on his leg. University Police and BEMCo responded, and the police transported the party and a BEMCo staff member to the Newton-Wellesley Hospital. March 30—The medical staff at the Mailman House requested an ambulance to transport a patient to the hospital. The party was transported without incident, and the appropriate staff members were advised. March 30—University Police received a call that a student in the Hassenfeld Residence Hall fell down the stairs and injured her back. University Police and BEMCo responded; the party was treated on-scene with a signed refusal for further care. March 31—A party in Renfield stated that her friend fell down the stairs and injured her ankle. University Police and BEMCo responded; the party was transported via ambulance to the Newton-Wellesley Hospital for further care.
Traffic
March 27—University Police compiled a report on a motor vehicle accident that occurred on Loop Road. There were no injuries resulting from the accident.
March 27—A person driving a University-owned vehicle hit a cement barrier in Ridgewood Quad with said vehicle. There were no injuries reported, and University Police compiled a report on the incident. March 28—There was a minor vehicle collision near the main entrance to campus. The drivers exchanged paperwork, and University Police were on-scene to assist in the matter. No further action was taken. March 29—A reporting party stated that his car had been hit while it was parked in the Theater Lot. University Police compiled a report on the damage.
Disturbance
March 29—A party in the Foster Mods reported that his neighbors were talking loudly outside his building. University Police checked all the Mods, and everything appeared to be in order.
Larceny
March 29—Brandeis staff reported the theft of University equipment from the Joseph M. Linsey Pool. University Police compiled a report. Security TV footage will be reviewed, and an investigation will follow.
CORRECTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS
n The author of a letter in Forum should have been identified as Bernard “Buddy” Macy ’79, not Bernard “Buddy” Macy ’72. (March 27, p. 11) The Justice welcomes submissions for errors that warrant correction or clarification. Email editor@ thejustice.org.
Justice
the
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The Justice is the independent student newspaper of Brandeis University. The Justice is published every Tuesday of the academic year with the exception of examination and vacation periods. Editor in chief office hours are held Mondays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Justice office. Editor News Forum Features Sports Arts Ads Photos Managing
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—compiled by Marielle Temkin
$3,425 in SMRs passed
Check our website, www.thejustice.org, for updates and more event coverage from last week.
n The name of a musical artist in the “Brandeis Talks Back” section of Forum was misspelled. The artist’s name is Andrew Bird, not Andrew Byrd. (March 27, p. 10)
March 27—A party reported that he saw two people attempting to gain access to the roof of the Rose Art Museum and the Faculty Club. University Police found the people and determined that there was no malicious intent. No further action was taken. March 30—University Police received a call about an unattended dog in the vicinity of the Shapiro Campus Center. The dog’s owner was contacted via the phone number listed on its collar, and the owner came to retrieve the dog. March 30—A staff member from Athletics called University Police reporting a group of students smoking marijuana on the field area. The students appeared to have left the area prior to the arrival of the police. March 31—University Police placed a male party into protective custody. Criminal charges were filed by the University Police for disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and assault and battery. The party was transported to the Waltham Police Department for booking procedures, and University Judicial charges will be filed.
SENATE LOG
NOTE TO READERS: The Justice is on hiatus for spring recess. Our next issue will be published April 24, 2012.
n An article in Features contained a number of errors. Olga Golovanova ’10 did not organize a protest; she organized the delivery of food and water to those taken to police stations from the protests. The protests were held not only in Russia, but in various places worldwide. Golovanova does not work for Hillel in New York City. In fact, she works for a private archive in the same city. The international fundraising project mentioned should have been spelled as “WakeUpRussia!,” not “Wake Up, Russia.” (March 27, p. 8)
Miscellaneous
JOSH SPIRO/the Justice
Texas State Fair comes to Waltham Brittany Ritell ’15 tries out the bungee trampoline on Chapels Field on Sunday at “The Texas State Fair,” the final event of Student Events’ Bronstein Week. The American road trip-themed week also included a comedy night, a barbeque, and a Mardi Gras Masquerade Ball.
In its last meeting before the spring recess, the Senate debated how to allocate its remaining funds this semester. As of Sunday night, the senate had approximately $10,000 at its disposal. The Senate voted on a Senate Money Resolution for $675 to purchase beach balls, water bottles and frisbees with the Student Union logo to hand out at this year’s SpringFest and midnight buffet. After arguing over the necessity of these items, the Senate voted to accept the resolution. “Zivwoodstock,” a barbeque event proposed by Ziv Quad Senator Sol Kim ’12, was also debated and ultimately accepted. $800 was allocated to the event. A third senate SMR to provide funding to support Earth Day activities in conjunction with Students for Environmental Action was proposed. The senate voted to cut an item from the SMR requesting handouts with the Student Union logo. $500 was allocated to spend on food for programming. The Senate also approved $365 in funding for a “Social Justice Committee Hate Crime and Discrimination Town Hall” on April 16. The event has already been endorsed by Triskelion and the Queer Resource Center. Finally, Senator for the Class of 2014 Shekeyla Caldwell ’14 proposed an emergency SMR to hold a barbeque event on the great lawn immediately after students return from vacation. The Senate allocated $1,085 to the event. The total amount allocated at the meeting was $3,425. With an anticipated $5,000 needed for the midnight buffet, the Senate will have approximately $1,500 remaining at its disposal. Some senators criticized what they believed to be excessive spending. Senator for the Class of 2014 Ricky Rosen expressed worry that there would not be enough funding to plan end of year activities. The Senate also unanimously recognized the Pokemon club. The intended purpose of the club, according to its founder, Arie Halpern ’15, is to connect students who wish to play the video or card game with one another. —Eitan Cooper
ANNOUNCEMENTS Orientation to campus recruiting and B.hired
Participating in Campus Recruiting gives you the opportunity to connect with employers and Brandeis alumni in your field of interest. In order to participate in Hiatt’s recruiting opportunities (e.g. campus interviews and résumé collections), you must complete three requirements. Attending this workshop will fulfill one of your requirements. During the workshop, you will learn about the other campus recruiting requirements and how to effectively use the B.hired job and internship database as a valuable resource during your job and internship search. RSVP through B.hired. Tomorrow from 2 to 3 p.m. in the Hiatt Career Center, Usdan Student Center.
Careers in law panel
Law school may seem like a great idea, but exactly what is it that lawyers do? The answer to that is wide ranging. This panel workshop will provide a sampling of different areas of practice and different settings
in which one can practice law. Come hear from alumni who have taken the path you are considering and ask questions. All are welcome. This event is sponsored by the Hiatt Career Center. RSVP through B.hired. Tomorrow from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Hiatt Career Center, Usdan Student Center.
Careers in media, arts and philanthropy
Speakers at this event will discuss the ways in which Brandeis students can utilize their studies in the humanities and social sciences to land exciting and meaningful careers in global media, arts and philanthropy. Michelle Young—blogger, philanthropist and new media CEO—will be the guest speaker. Young, who has a degree in art history, is the founder and CEO of Untapped Cities, a fast-growing global media brand, and blogs for The Huffington Post. The panel will also include two Brandeis seniors who will discuss their own interest in global media and the ways in which they are using their liberal arts education
to launch their careers. Tomorrow from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Mandel Center Reading Room, 303.
Roosevelt Recommends
Come get advice from your Roosevelt Fellow. There will be free pizza and thoughts about what classes to take next semester. Tomorrow from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Shapiro Residence Hall Lounge.
China: What’s Next?
Dr. Cheng Li, a top expert on China’s domestic politics from Brookings Institution, and Prof. Gary Jefferson (IBS), a top expert on China’s economy, will partake in a panel discussion on China’s political transition and economy. This event is sponsored by the Brandeis International Journal, the International and Global Studies department and the Ellen Lasher Kaplan ’64 and Robert S. Kaplan Endowment for Economic Growth. Tuesday, Apr. 17, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. in Rapaporte Treasure Hall.
THE JUSTICE
A LIFE REMEMBERED
By tate herbert JUSTICE editorial assistant
JON EDELSTEIN/the Justice
POETIC MOMENT: Associate Dean of Student Life Jamele Adams reads a poem.
Students call for justice for shooting victim By sara dejene JUSTICE editor
In response to the events surrounding the Feb. 26 death of Trayvon Martin, MLK and Friends, the Women of Color Alliance, the Men of Color Alliance, the Brandeis Black Student Organization and the Queer People of Color Coalition co-sponsored a series of discussions and vigils last Thursday and Friday. Martin was shot and killed while walking to his father’s girlfriend’s home in Sanford, Fla. after leaving a convenience store, according to a topic page on Martin by the New York Times. George Zimmerman, the neighborhood watch volunteer who killed Martin, said that he shot him in self-defense. Martin was found to have no weapon on him and as of yet, no arrest has been made in the case. In New York City and Miami, over two thousand people rallied in honor of Martin. Martin’s parents, Tracy Martin and Sybrina Fulton, joined demonstrators in New York City for the “Million Hoodie March,” where participants wore hooded sweatshirts as Martin did when he was killed. According to a March 30 email from the Division of Students and Enrollment, students were invited to show their support and demand a call for a “thorough investigation” into the death of Martin by wearing sweatshirts with their hoods up all of Friday. MLK and Friends, WOCA, MOCA and BBSO and QPOCC hosted a discussion and vigil last Thursday night. It opened with recordings of the 911 calls made to police during the incident and the organizers gave background on the events that took place when Martin was killed. The audience then broke up into smaller groups to discuss both the events and their reactions to the case. The audience then regrouped to reflect as one large group. The discussion was followed by a candlelight vigil in the Great Lawn. About 50 participants stood in a circle and held a moment of silence for Martin. Some members of the group lit their candles in honor of Martin
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Student arrested at SJP protests of Israeli Knesset Palestine protested an event featuring members of the Israeli Parliament.
sponsored a discussion, a vigil and a march to advocate a thorough investigation of Trayvon Martin’s death.
TUESDAY, april 3, 2012
student activism
■ Students for Justice in
■ Several student groups
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himself or to “hope,” while others dedicated their candles to loved ones who were victims of violence, or to other attendees who came to support their cause. On Friday, University President Frederick Lawrence led another vigil, which was followed by a march to the Louis Brandeis Statue. All participants and the statue were dressed in hooded sweatshirts in honor of Martin. In an interview with the Justice, Vice President of MLK and Friends Amanda Dryer ’13 said that she had asked Associate Dean of Student Life Jamele Adams for permission to dress the statue. Attendees chanted “I am not the enemy,” and Adams emphasized the importance of dialogue on issues such as racial profiling and stereotyping. Adams, who wore a light gray Brandeis hoodie, then recited a poem he wrote titled “Social Justice.” “When every child is divine, Emmett Till,” said Adams in his poem. “And wearing a hoodie doesn’t put cross hairs on my spine.” Emmitt Till was an African-American boy who was murdered in 1955 at the age of 14 after speaking to a white woman. After Adams’ poem, students were encouraged to continue their discussion in the Shapiro Campus Center Multipurpose Room. In an interview with the Justice, Adams said that it was “important” for the community to come together. “The whole movement was wonderful to see happen especially coming from Brandeis,” said Adams. “It was an honor to be a part of it.” Lawrence also said that the event was important in an interview with the Justice. “We have to react as a community to this kind of injustice. ... We have a lot of students here who are really hurting.” In an interview with the Justice, Vice President of WOCA Tori Dobson ’15 said that the event “touched everybody.” “I think it changed a lot of our opinions about the way we see each other,” she said. “Hopefully, eventually through protest and dialogue and conversations, justice and peace will prevail,” Rebekah Lafontant ’12. “Brandeis is a place where you can have your voice heard and have these types of dialogues in a safe space.” —Tate Herbert contributed reporting.
Newton police arrested one Brandeis student and dispersed approximately 15 protesters in total at last Monday’s panel of members of the Knesset, Israel’s Parliament, during a town hall-style meeting at Temple Emanuel in Newton, Mass. Knesset members Ofir Akunis, Lia Shemtov, Ilan Gilon, Raleb Majadele and Fania Kirshenbaum, all Ruderman Fellows, spoke at the meeting as part of the Ruderman Fellows Program, which partnered with the Schusterman Center for Israel Studies to bring Knesset members to the Boston area to learn about the American Jewish community. During the forum, members of Brandeis Students for Justice in Palestine, all wearing blue T-shirts emblazoned with the word “apartheid” in Hebrew, stood up and yelled “mic check,” when Akunis began to speak. A few students from other Bostonarea universities and local activists were also in attendance, according to SJP member Seth Grande ‘12, along with members of the peace activist group CODEPINK, according to Newton police reports.
Protesters continued to chant slogans such as “Israel is an apartheid state and the Knesset is an apartheid parliament,” “Mr. Akunis and Ms. Kirshenbaum, how do you feel to be silenced?” and “free, free Palestine,” for approximately one minute until they were led out of the room by police. Director of the Schusterman Center S. Ilan Troen ’63, who moderated Monday’s panel, wrote in an email to the Justice that the protest was “silly … actually infantile” and “a nonevent” compared to the two-hourlong panel. Troen also pointed out that the panel included Majadele, an Arab Member of Knesset who has held several powerful political positions. Protesters were particularly opposed to Akunis and Kirshenbaum because they “sponsor this legislation that shut down international funding to human rights [non-governmental organizations] operating in Israel and Palestine,” said Grande. “We go in, stand up, do the mic check, and [Newton Police] start pulling us out,” said Grande in an interview with the Justice. “Some of us were in the middle of the pews, so it was a bit harder.” One of the students who resisted police efforts to remove the protesters, Leila Einhorn ’12, was arrested for disorderly conduct, according to Lieutenant Bruce Apotheker, director of the Department of Community Services for Newton Police. Einhorn
declined to comment on the events. Einhorn “was sitting on the edge of the benches, one of the cops grabbed her pretty violently,” said Grande. She pulled away as the officer grabbed her and was consequently arrested, according to Grande. Apotheker declined to comment on allegations by SJP members that protesters had been assaulted and that one was thrown to the ground by police. SJP also disrupted a similar event held on campus last year. “The walkout last year got such a big press response and got so many people noticing,” said Grande. “[Knesset member] Avi Dichter … is an international war criminal. The glossing over of all these problematic aspects of Israeli government policy, I don’t find that right,” he added, referring a member of the delegation of MKs that came to Brandeis last year. A group of plaintiffs did, in fact, attempt to try Dichter for war crimes in 2005, but the case was dismissed in 2007, as Dichter was found to have immunity. “We don’t really feel comfortable with the relationship between Brandeis University and the Israeli government,” Grande said, explaining SJP’s position. “We are opposed to actions of the Israeli government as a whole. We will not welcome any Israeli officials to Brandeis university events,” he added. —Sam Mintz contributed reporting
TESS SCHEFLAN/Activestills.org
SPEAKING OUT: Student protesters shout as they are taken out of last Monday’s event at Temple Emanuel in Newton.
BRIEF
Equipment theft by contractor causes two-day closure of pool, now back up and running The Linsey Pool was closed last Thursday and Friday following a report of stolen equipment, according to Director of Public Safety Edward Callahan in an email to the Justice. Callahan wrote that Public Safety has a possible suspect but that he cannot release the name of the individual at this time. According to Callahan, a staff member of Facility Services reported the theft and that the investigation is ongoing. Callahan wrote that the equipment stolen was “mechanical in nature” and that it “impacted the safe and efficient operation of the pool.” According to Director of Athletics Sheryl Sousa ’90, the pool has since been reopened and is “fully operational.” According to Associate Vice President for Facilities Services Peter Shields in an email to the
Justice, the theft was a result of a “commercial dispute” between a general contractor and a sub-contractor over payment. Shields wrote that the “disgruntled” sub-contractor removed three pieces of pool equipment Thursday morning that were of “little monetary value.” However, the parts were “critical to the functioning systems of the pool” and their removal “effectively shut-down the operation of the pool.” Shields wrote that two caps of the filter tanks were stolen as well as a cover to the filter screen, used to “separates items that get sucked into the gutters.” According to Shields, the general contractor was contacted about receiving new parts, but parts would not be available until today. In order to avoid having the pool closed until then,
University Machinist Frank Mello was asked to “fabricate” temporary parts that are being used until new parts arrive. The pool was fully functional by noon on Friday, according to Shields. Shields also wrote that such disputes are “not uncommon” in “construction activities” and that the issue did not involve the University at all. The pool was opened this past January after being closed for over three years, due to disrepair. The reopening was a result of the approval of a $3.5 million plan to renovate the pool facilities. Upgrades included repairs and updates to the mechanical, heating and electrical systems, new team locker rooms, a new lobby, new lighting and a refurbished entryway. —Sara Dejene
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THE JUSTICE
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TUESDAY, april 3, 2012
March 2011- Inauguration
PRESIDENTIAL BEGINNINGS: Lawrence is inaugurated as the eighth president of Brandeis University on March 31, 2011, at a ceremony in Gosman Sports and Convocation Center.
ASHER KRELL/Justice File Photo
LAWRENCE: A year of transition and change CONTINUED FROM 1 Planning a strategy
October 2011- Rose’s 50th Anniversary ROBYN SPECTOR/Justice File Photo
ROSE REOPENING: Lawrence addresses attendees at the museum’s reopening.
One of Lawrence’s notable contributions to the University in his short time here is his initiation of a strategic planning process, which he announced at the beginning of this academic year. Since his announcement, the Strategic Planning Advisory Committee has been formed, has gathered feedback from students, staff, faculty, alumni and other members of the Brandeis community and has started to evaluate data from that feedback. The committee plans to have a finalized plan by December 2012. “It seems as if there’s a large mobilization behind the strategic planning process,” said Senior Vice President for Administration Mark Collins in an interview with the Justice. “[Lawrence] talks about short, mid and long range planning regularly. Each one not in isolation, but thinking about … what changes we can make now, what we can do now to prepare us for the mid and longer term.” Student Union President Herbie Rosen ’12 offered a caveat about the plan, saying that “The students better find something in [the strategic plan] that they like. There better be something that our voices have asked for, and that’s his next big step.” Rosen continued that if the plan is completed and has a positive effect on students, he would consider it a major success for Lawrence.
Global Brandeis
FEBRUARY 2012- India Trip PHOTO COURTESY OF MUKUNDA DE
GLOBAL CONNECTIONS: Lawrence tours a school during his trip to India.
Another important aspect of Lawrence’s time so far at Brandeis has actually taken place far off-campus. He has made an effort to enhance Brandeis’ connections with global partners; in the last year, Lawrence has gone on two major trips, one to Israel and one to India. In the interview, Lawrence explained that Brandeis has an “enormous global reach,” and that he hopes to continue that way, but also that he wants to maintain more meaningful connections with a few select countries. “I think we need to focus our efforts … on a number of countries where we can have deep and sustained engagements. Israel and India strike me as two very strong candidates for that. There will be others. I think the strategic planning process can talk about that,” he said.
Energetic presence
MARCH 2012- Peace Vigil JON EDELSTEIN/the Justice
SUITING UP FOR JUSTICE: Lawrence dons a sweatshirt in honor of Trayvon Martin.
Lawrence has also been an energizing force on campus, according to students, faculty and administrators. “He’s very excited about Brandeis. He honors what’s been accomplished here, but he talks often about our future and the promise, and he’s so excited about it, that I believe it’s contagious and somewhat inspiring,” said Dean of Student Life Rick Sawyer in an interview with the Justice. “I think there’s a very positive vibe around his presidency,” agreed Rosen. “I think he’s come in with a lot of energy.” The beginning of Lawrence’s pres-
idency also brought a turn-over in the senior administration, with the appointments of Steve Goldstien ’78 as provost, Susan Birren as dean of Arts and Sciences and Andrew Flagel as senior vice president for Students and Enrollment. “I think the new team is fabulous,” said Collins, who has been a member of the Brandeis administration since 1987, in various roles. “Full of great ideas, and really have what I will call a ‘can-do attitude,’ with respect to students, faculty and the community in general.”
A fresh start
Some of the more tangible contributions that Lawrence has made in his first year are, somewhat symbolically, renovations and re-openings, notably of the Joseph M. Linsey Pool and the Rose Art Museum. The closing of the Rose was a major point of contention during the end of Reinharz’s presidency, and the settling of the Rose lawsuit was something that Lawrence was “glad to be able to bring to closure,” he said in an interview with the Justice. He also said that the search for a new director of the museum, which was planned to be completed in January, is going well and should be concluded relatively soon. In another interview, Malcolm Sherman, the chairman of the Brandeis Board of Trustees, praised Lawrence for his interest in these projects. “In both cases, he led the charge to find a way to resolve both of the issues that would not harm the University, but would rather help and enhance the University,” said Sherman.
Concerns
Many faculty members also feel that Lawrence’s first year has been a positive experience, according to long-time Prof. Jacob Cohen (AMST), who has been teaching at Brandeis since 1961, and has worked with all of Brandeis’ past presidents. “I really sense my colleagues, and I, feel strongly that his warmth has really created a different kind of human relationship with the wider University, which is very much appreciated and very healthy,” said Cohen in an interview with the Justice. However, Cohen brought up several concerns that he has about Lawrence’s presidency: following up Reinharz’s “legendary” ability to fundraise and Lawrence’s potentially lackluster commitment to the humanities, which are an integral aspect of the liberal arts experience. Cohen’s anxiety about fundraising is not without merit. The University raised $62 million during fiscal year 2011, a $10 million dollar decrease from the previous year, according to Director of Development Communications David Nathan. Nathan attributed this decrease to the fact that “final payments on several large capital gifts were received in [fiscal year 2010.]” Nathan reported that fundraising this year is about on pace with last year, and that alumni giving and donations from friends are both signif-
icantly higher than at this time last year. Senior Vice President of Institutional Advancement Nancy Winship wrote in an email from Nathan, “President Lawrence has already established strong relationships with many longstanding Brandeis supporters while bringing new donors into the Brandeis family … His intellect, warmth, sincerity and love for Brandeis will make him an outstanding fundraiser for the University.” Cohen’s other question about Lawrence’s presidency regards the academic direction of Brandeis. “In his appointments to the deanship and the provostship [sic], he has appointed two people with a strong science background,” he said. “Clearly, the international reputation of the University, which is very great given all kinds of things, is particularly strong in the area of the sciences. But where he stands on the humanities and the arts and how much that will figure in the future of the University is not clear to me yet.” He went on to say that he is not so much worried as curious about the academic future of the University.
Community connections
Lawrence taught a politics seminar last semester called “Punishment and Crime,” but beyond his teaching, he feels a deep sense of belonging among the Brandeis faculty. “First and foremost, the president of a university is the member of the faculty. I always call them my faculty colleagues,” said Lawrence. Finally, though global connections, strategic plans, renovations and relations to faculty and alumni are all important, the heart of a university lies with its students, according to Lawrence. “I think it’s one of Fred’s keen interests to be constantly connected to the student experience,” said Sawyer. “There’s an interplay with the students that appears to be quite natural.” Rosen echoed this thought. “As a president, he’s upholding his duty to be informed and have communication with the student body. I think he goes over and beyond in talking to different student leaders, for a man of his schedule.” Lawrence himself displayed a touch of sentimentality when describing his relationship with the student body. “You’re my kids,” he said. “One of the things I love about being here is the opportunity to be as much part of student life as I can. You guys understand that there are a lot of demands on my time and a lot of times that I can’t be here. But you also know this is where my heart is.” In describing his plans for the rest of his presidency, Lawrence invoked the University’s esteemed namesake. “This is going to sound terribly corny, but I do ask myself on a regular basis, ‘what would Louis Brandeis say?’ he said. “I’d like to think this is a school of which he’d be proud, and I’d like to think that he’s still giving me advice, it’s just that I have to listen pretty hard to hear it.” —Tate Herbert contributed reporting
THE JUSTICE
STUDENT LIFE
Waltham will be relatively few, but the weekend 554 bus will still be cut and commuter rail fares will rise under the new proposal. By FIONA LOCKYER JUSTICE EDITOR
Last Wednesday, after of weeks of town-hall debates, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority announced its recommended budget proposal to close the $185 million budget gap for next fiscal year. The effects of the new plan would be minimal for Brandeis students and Waltham residents. According to a March 28 press release from the MBTA, Charlie Card prices for local bus service would rise from $1.25 to $1.50, and the subway cost would rise from $1.70 to $2.00. Commuter rail single trip and monthly passes would be increased an average of 29 percent across all zones, with a one way fare increase from $4.75 to $6.00 planned for Zone 2, which includes the Brandeis Roberts station. The weekend service of the Route 554 bus, which connects Waltham, Waverly and Newton, Mass. to downtown Boston, would be eliminated. The MBTA estimates that 0.3 percent of current riders will be lost due to the proposed fare and service changes because the services eliminated affected services of low ridership and would keep public transit prices in Boston lower than other major cities, including New York City and Chicago. Other changes include a modification of the E branch of the Green Line, which would run up to the Brigham Circle stop instead of Heath Street. The service changes would result in $15.4 million in savings, while fare increases would generate $72.9 million. $61 million would be generated through one-time revenues, including a MassDOT snow and ice surplus of $5 million and a North Station garage lease payment of $5 million. While cuts and price increases will take place in this plan, some additions are also included in the proposal. The addition of countdown signs at the Logan Airport stop of the Silver Line are included in the new budget, while off-peak hours pricing, which would create different pricing during rush-hour travel, may be explored for future changes.
According to the MBTA, this proposed budget will be presented to the MBTA Board of Directors for approval on April 4, and, if the changes are accepted, they would be effective July 1. Brandeis students met March 1 at the Waltham town-hall meeting at the Government Center to discuss what the possible changes would mean for the Brandeis community. Many students argued that price increases and service changes, especially the elimination of weekend commuter rail service and service after 10 p.m. on weekdays, would adversely affect the attractiveness of Brandeis as a campus with easy access to Boston. In response to the new package, Student Union President Herbie Rosen ’12 wrote in an email to the Justice that “Yes, there are higher fares, but at least we don’t have to worry about our service being cut,” although he noted that he did not have the chance to read the new proposal in detail. “Some people seem irked by the higher fares, but compared to the last proposals, I think we’d take this over that any day,” he continued. The Student Union, which had drafted and sent a campuswide email of a letter of complaint to the MBTA hours before the package was released, will be reevaluating the letter and the appropriateness of sending it now that the new plan has been announced, according to Rosen. The first draft of the letter included sentiments that the University would be “crippled” by the proposed service cuts and price increases, specifically on the commuter rail. The letter, signed by Rosen and Student Union Vice President Gloria Park ’13, included that “Should any of these proposals pertaining to Brandeis and Waltham go through, Brandeis will be challenged to fulfill its promise of creating an environment where students can truly maximize their college experience, both academically and socially. Should any of these proposals go through, the MBTA will be hindering our education.” “I am not one to settle, but the MBTA realistically is in dire financial straits,” Rosen wrote in his email to the Justice. “I’d like to push more, but I’d rather have this proposal instead of the previous two.” Without an outpouring of student support, the Student Union will likely accept this proposal as an appropriate compromise on the part of the MBTA.
TUESDAY, APRIL 3, 2012
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RELIGION UNDER THE MICROSCOPE
MBTA prices rise while commuter rail service stays ■ Effects on Brandeis and
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JOSH HOROWITZ/the Justice
TWO WORLDS: Dr. Gerald Schroeder addressed some of the conflicts between the biblical account of creation and science.
Physicist synthesizes creation and science ■ Schroeder, a former MIT
physics professor, pointed out the brevity of the biblical account of creation. By EITAN COOPER JUSTICE EDITOR
Is it possible to reconcile belief in the Bible with modern science? Last Tuesday night, renowned physicist and author Dr. Gerald Schroeder attempted to answer that question in a packed Rapaporte Treasure Hall. Schroeder, a former Physics professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, spoke mainly about conflicts between scientific accounts of creation and the biblical narrative found in the first chapter of Genesis. He was sure to note, at the start of his talk, that he is unable to address every contradiction between the Bible and science, saying “I would never contend that every claim the Torah makes has a scientific understanding.” The presentation lasted nearly an hour and a half, touching on topics such as the seven days of creation story and evolution. Schroeder distributed copies of the first chapter of Genesis and used a white board while close reading the text to convey complex concepts in physics. The event concluded with a question-and-answer session. A central component of his lecture
hinged on the shortness of the Biblical record of creation. The brevity of the Bible, according to Schroeder, necessitates a deeper analysis. “We have to try to understand whether or not going beyond the simplistic reading of the text is necessarily bending the Bible,” he said. The talk also addressed an apparent contradiction between the Bible and most museums: While the Bible claims that humans were created 6,000 years ago, modern science claims that humans emerged 70,000 years ago. Schroeder pointed out that this contradiction is rooted in a definition of terms. It’s possible that the Bible refers to humans that are farther along in the evolutionary chain. He said, “The first thing you have to do is define your terms. Humans go back 70,000 years … [the museums] are totally correct … The biblical definition of a human is a being that looks like you and me.” The event was cosponsored by the Brandeis Orthodox Organization, Meor Boston, Hillel at Brandeis, Brandeis University Conservative Organization, Brandeis Reform Chavurah, Brandeis Reconstructionist Organization, the Neuroscience Club, and the Physics Club. BOO Education Coordinator Aaron Wengrofsky ’15 said in an interview with the Justice that Schroeder “Was someone who could not only relate to the Orthodox community, but … the science community, the broader religious community and … the entire
Brandeis and broader Boston community.” The nature of the crowd contributed to the success of the event. “It was a success just based on the fact that people seemed to really respond to him well and ask a lot of questions … I saw a lot of different people there, a lot of diverse people there.” Students in attendance gave Schroeder high marks. In an interview with the Justice, Zevvy Goldish ’15 commented, “Gerald Schroeder presented a fascinating synthesis of modern science with traditional Torah interpretation that was thought-provoking and enlightening.” Other students criticized Schroeder for sometimes being unclear. Rachel Salston ’12 said in an interview with the Justice, “I was very impressed with Gerald Schroeder’s passion and enthusiasm for his research in connection to the book of Genesis; however, a lot of the information was clouded by his enthusiasm and it was at times difficult to understand what was actually being presented.” Schroeder’s background as a wellestablished physicist and scholar of the bible makes him a unique speaker. According to his website, “Gerald Schroeder has spent his career revealing the hand of God in the intricate discoveries of physics.” He has 30 years of experience and currently resides in Israel where his work focuses on radiation control. He has been present at the detonation of six atomic bombs.
CAMPUS SPEAKER
Gershon Baskin recounts events that led to Shalit’s release
■ Baskin has been involved
in Israeli-Palistinian negotiations since 1976, when he was a student. By RACHEL STARR JUSTICE CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Dr. Gershon Baskin, an experienced negotiator for conflicts dealing with Palestinians and Israelis, came to the Heller School for Social Policy and Management last Friday to discuss the secret back channel he created that lead to the release of Israeli prisoner Gilad Shalit. Baskin showed the audience of over 100 graduate and undergraduate students a slideshow dealing with important events within the Israeli conflict. On June 25, 2006 the Hamas group
captured Israeli soldier Shalit. The Israeli government contacted Baskin to negotiate for the safe return of the soldier. He suggested they request a sign of life from Hamas. A letter or a video was requested. Baskin spent an hour and a half at the event telling his story, describing all the obstacles he had to overcome to help both sides and Shalit’s family. Countless times, he was told to “butt out,” but continued on with attempts to negotiate for both sides. In 2007, Hamas and the Israeli government reached a framework for an agreement: Shalit would be exchanged for 1000 prisoners. There would be two phases: Hamas would select 450 prisoners and 550 would be selected by Israel. Both sides argued for four years about the prisoners that would be released, and Baskin was in part responsible for this re-
lease because of his role as a communicator between the two sides. “[Back channels] are essential. There is a limit to what public diplomacy can offer. There’s no test. There are no objective reasons why [Palestinians and Israelis] should trust each other. [The Arab Palestinans and Israelis] signed five agreements and breached every one of them,” he said. Baskin has been involved with the conflict since 1976, when he was a student studying in New York City. He has made it his life goal to try his hardest to “smooth over” the tension existing between the two groups and travels to different universities to tell his story. According to Baskin, Shalit had a treadmill, books and food during the five years and four months he was imprisoned but stopped eating the last two months. Baskin said he believed Hamas made a deal with
the Israeli government because they knew Shalit would have died eventually. Currently, he is suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and remains clinically depressed due to the conditions he experienced while in captivity, but is slowly recovering. Baskin still remains in contact with Shalit and his family and disclosed their plans to get lunch on Tuesday. Zach Cardin ’15 said, “I thought [the talk] was very interesting. I learned a lot of things I didn’t know about Shalit’s release.” J Street U Brandeis worked with the Heller School to make sure that undergraduate students would be allowed to attend. Students for Justice in Palestine, the Brandeis Zionist Alliance, Brandeis Israel Public Affairs Committee and J street all had members present at the event. A member of J Street U, Eli Philip ’15, said the group sponsored the event because,
“We think Gershon Baskin has a really incredible story that not many people have heard. We wanted people interested in Israel to learn of the secret nature of the negotiations.” Gershon Baskin stayed after his speech to talk exclusively with undergraduates in the Hassenfeld Conference Center. More than 40 students attended. Ethan Stein ’15 said, “Having the opportunity to hear Baskin, who took part in this remarkable release, was an opportunity I could not give up. After years of caring, praying, and hard work, our boy Gilad was finally home.” Many students left discussing what they had just heard. Philip said, “the most powerful message of Dr. Baskin’s talk was realizing how much can be achieved through dialogue and negotiation. It is an inspiration that a peaceful solution is not only plausible, but attainable.”
THE JUSTICE
ABC journalist discusses book
the flaws of the current health care system in the United States. By SUZY SCHATZ JUSTICE CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Dr. Tim Johnson, an ABC News medical correspondent, spoke to students Thursday about his new book, The Truth About Getting Sick in America, and the issues involved in the United States’ current healthcare situation. The event was sponsored by the Health: Science, Society and Policy department and was held in the Rapaporte Treasure Hall. Johnson, a graduate of Albany Medical College, who also has a degree in public health from Harvard University, “is one of the nation’s leading medical communicators in healthcare information” according to Danielle Sackstein ’14, who organized the event. Johnson, who has interviewed many notable people, including President Barack Obama, explained that through the presentation, he wanted to “reach out to the general public, in terms of thinking about health care reform in a way that might open their eyes to issues that they hadn’t thought about in a particular way before.” The presentation was organized in the same way as his book, with sections labeled “The Big Question”, “The Big Problem,” “The Big Fear,” “The Big Sermon” and “The Big Prediction,” and was accompanied by a PowerPoint. In the first section of his presentation, entitled “The Big Question,” Johnson proposed the question of why the United States spends twice as much per person for health care than do all other industrialized countries, yet is the only industrialized country that does not provide basic health care for all of its citizens. This question, he said, “should absolutely haunt us.” Johnson noted that although the United States spends more per person, it does not have any better treatment results than other countries. He went on to compare five-year cancer survival rates from
the United States and Canada, which showed that the two countries had about the same rates, to support his claim that U.S. extra expenditures are unjustifiable. In the next part of his presentation, “The Big Problem,” Johnson asserted that the most important cause the United States’ “out of control health care costs…[is] the unrealistic expectations that we all have” as healthcare consumers. He said these expectations include convenient, compassionate, communicative, coordinated, cutting-edge and cheap or cost-free care. Johnson also went on to say that paying doctors, hospitals and drug and device companies more for providing more services, instead of paying them based on results, is responsible for driving up health care costs exponentially. When beginning the portion of his presentation called “The Big Fear,” Johnson stated that the fear is that the federal government will relegate the creation of medical care safety standards to states. Johnson said leaving the development of these standards to states would leave citizens to worry about the care they are receiving when they travel to other states, and added that this fear is especially relevant because of the Supreme Court discussions on health care that took place this week. Johnson, a former minister, included a section named “The Big Sermon” that utilized the "Parable of the Good Samaritan” from the New Testament to illustrate his point that medical service should be based on need and not the possession of insurance. Finally, his “Big Prediction” section introduced his forecast that “no [developed] country including the United States will be able to pay for everything for everyone at every age that modern medical science might [produce].” Jonathan Steinberg ’13, who attended the event, said that he thought it was “extremely eye-opening and put forth the ideas really simply, which is good for a lot of people to hear because everything gets muddled by the media and politics, and it is good to hear it from a good source who knows how to present it in the right way.”
JENNY CHENG/the Justice
HEALTH CARE EXPERT: Johnson analyzed problems in the U.S. health care system.
TUESDAY, APRIL 3, 2012
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ADMITTED STUDENTS DAY
campus speaker
■ Tim Johnson spoke about
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JOSHUA LINTON/the Justice
Class of 2016 Parents of admitted students for the Class of 2016 attended a welcome event in the Shapiro Campus Center, as part of Admitted Students Day, which was on Sunday.
BUDGET: Board increases funding for LTS and Rose CONTINUED FROM 1 size of select classes and decreasing the number of incoming first-year students,” he wrote. To meet these goals, the full price tag for most Brandeis undergraduates—the cost of tuition, room, board and fees—will rise to $56,022. Total cost for new students will be even higher, at a 4.85 percent increase, or $56,407. The tuition disparity between new and current students is to accommodate families who have already created a financial plan and are committed to the University, explained Flagel. “It was something we could do for our continuing students that could help ease the challenges for them [of increasing costs].” Within the national climate of growing higher education costs, the University is still mid-range in comparison to other colleges, according to Flagel. In an interview with the Justice, Student Union President Herbie Rosen ’12 acknowledged the transparency of the administration but said that “it’s unsettling that the University is relying on our tuition for prior financial situations,” like the renovations of the Rose Art Museum and the Joseph M. Linsey Pool. Flagel also spoke about the budget adjustments the Board had to make for next year to ensure that it “preserve the character of the University” in the face of the University’s growing student body and University endowment. The total amount of need-blind/ full-need financial aid to be offered for the 2012-2013 academic year, to respond to the increased costs and keep Brandeis accessible, according to Flagel, will amount to $86.5 million. Flagel said that the updated budget will pull from endowment revenues, though there was caution issued in
the allocations. “What we’re able to do with some of the changes is make some alterations both in terms of revenue from the endowment and student revenue that permit the kinds of investments you see” in the other budget changes. While tuition rises, Flagel projects next year’s first-year class size to be between 800 and 820 students, less than last year’s 858, which was the largest in University history, according to BrandeisNOW. Flagel said that the goal is to increase the undergraduate student population to 3,600 by next year, a slight increase from the current 3,319, according to the admissions website. Along with reducing the goal for the incoming first-year class, the Board approved limits on select course sizes and provided the finances to offer more sections for some language classes. Provost Steve Goldstein ’78 said in an interview with the Justice, “There is good, strong evidence that the strongest way to teach language classes is in small sizes. … What we wanted to do was aggressively push the classes down in size so that they were in the range of 18 students or less.” Library and Technology Services is also receiving more funding for “library collections and subject area librarians; information security; overdue computer refresh and classroom equipment renewals across campus; upgrades to the campus learning management system; data warehousing; and efforts to protect unique archival and special collections from environmental damage,” according to BrandeisNOW. The Board also approved more funds for academic advisers. "What we were particularly anxious to do was make sure there were enough staff
members so that the students would have ready access,” said Goldstein. As part of the Board’s goal to address the central aspects of student experience on campus, the budget incorporated a new “Living Learning Community” option for first-year students. The program is designed around common academic and cocurricular interests. Professors will also be involved in the residential community, and “Ph.D. teaching assistants will be hired to facilitate faculty involvement,” Flagel explained.“The working titles for each community are ‘Media, Politics and Society’ and ‘Global Connections.' " Dean of Arts and Sciences Susan Birren wrote in an email to the Justice that the University will also introduce first-year seminars titled JustBooks. “These small seminars will engage students in humanist inquiry and will honor the university’s focus on social justice,” she wrote. The Board also approved additional funds for the Rose Art Museum. Goldstein said the “re-energization of the Rose” would give additional funding to support the educational programming and maintenance of the museum for students and faculty. Frances Drolette, senior vice president for finance and chief financial officer, said: “The spending plan is a cautious reflection of the improved financial climate, the desire to fund some immediate priorities that align with the university’s values and mission, and a recognition that other initiatives will await the results of the ongoing strategic planning effort,” according to BrandeisNOW. All changes will be enacted on July 1, 2012, according to BrandeisNOW. —Alana Abramson, Sara Dejene and Sam Mintz contributed reporting.
COMMENCEMENT: Two Nobel Prize winners to receive degrees CONTINUED FROM 1 Zachary Sax ’12 said that he would have preferred someone who was “more representative of the entire school population as opposed to a small part of the population” and someone “who was more well known to everyone.” In an interview with the Justice, Jordi Goodman ’12 said that she hopes Bial will give “an inspirational speech” but that she had not heard of the speaker until the announcement. Brenner, a biologist and geneticist, is also the founder of the Molecular Sciences Institute, according to the BrandeisNOW press release. Established in 1996, the institute aims to
“significantly advance understanding of how living systems function and evolve,” according to its website. Brenner received the 2002 Nobel Prize in physiology and medicine, along with Sir John Sulston, professor and chair of the Institute for Science, Ethics and Innovation at the University of Manchester, and Robert Horvitz, chair of the board of trustees at Society for Science of the Public, a non-profit organization that promotes the sciences. The three were awarded the Nobel Prize for their work in developmental biology, according to the press release. Sen, the Lamont University Professor and a professor of Economics and Philosophy at Harvard University, received a Nobel Prize in Economic
Sciences for his “contributions to welfare economics” according to the Nobel Prize’s website. According to the press release, Sen is a contributor to the social choice theory and has published numerous publications on topics in these fields. In addition, he was awarded the National Humanities Medal from President Barack Obama for “his insights into the causes of poverty, famine and injustice” according to a citation quoted in a Feb. 16 press release from IndiaWest, an Indian and U.S. news publication. Polisi has served as president of the Juilliard School since 1984, overseeing a “transformation of its curriculum” and a plan “that increased student financial aid and faculty com-
pensation,” according to the press release. Polisi is also the founder of the Academy, a joint two-year fellowship program between Juilliard and Carnegie Hall, the Weill Music Institute and the New York City Department of Education. The Academy is designed for “musicians who wish to redefine their role as musician and extend their music,” according to its website. Kraft served on the University’s Board of Trustees starting in 1986 and was vice chair for 10 years. She also served on the search committee that selected Lawrence to become University president. In an email to the Justice after her death last year, Lawrence called Kraft, who was the daughter of Hiatt Career Center founder Ja-
cob Hiatt, a “true Brandeisian.” Kraft was well known for her philanthropic endeavors in Boston as well as for her student scholarships at the University. According to the press release, her husband, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft, will accept the degree on her behalf. According to the press release, members of the Brandeis community may nominate anyone to receive an honorary degree. A committee narrows down the list of candidates, which is then approved by the Board of Trustees and sent to Lawrence, who ultimately selects the degree recipients. —Shafaq Hasan contributed reporting.
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features
TUESDAY, april 3, 2012
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THE JUSTICE
VERBATIM | ROBERT KENNEDY Let us dedicate ourselves to what the Greeks wrote so many years ago: to tame the savageness of man and make gentle the life of this world.
ON THIS DAY…
FUN FACT
In 1981, the Osbourne 1, the first successful portable computer, was unveiled in San Francisco.
Apple stores each sell an average of $93,150 worth of products every day.
Advancing social justice JENNY CHENG/the Justice
SPEAKING OF JUSTICE: Andrew B. Hahn Ph.D. ’78 (Heller), left, conducted a question-and-answer session with Jill Iscol (center), the author of ‘Hearts on Fire,’ and Jacob Lief, co-founder of the Ubuntu Education Fund.
Jill Iscol discusses philanthropic efforts of world leaders today By CELINE HACOBIAN JUSTICE editor
Jill Iscol, activist and advisor to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, spoke at the Heller School for Social Policy and Management last Thursday. She discussed her book Hearts on Fire, which features 14 leaders who have made a difference in the world. Iscol discussed her own philanthropic efforts and what compelled her to write the book. The event was co-sponsored by the Eli J. Segal Citizen Leadership Program and the Sillerman Center for the Advancement of Philanthropy. Iscol was born and raised in New York and is the president of the IF Hummingbird Foundation, started in 1989, that socially and economically supports democracy in the U.S. and abroad. Hearts on Fire was made available to the public on Nov. 8, 2011. Jacob Lief, one of the 14 activists mentioned in the book, was also present to answer questions. Lief, the president and co-founder of the Ubuntu Education Fund, spoke about his project which provides necessary medical and educational resources and supplies to more than 400,000 orphaned and vulnerable children in South Africa. The mission of Lief’s program is to support the development of these children from an early age through higher education and their careers. Before the question-and-answer session with Iscol and Lief, a short film called “Welcome to Hearts on Fire” was shown, showcasing the two activists and their thoughts on how to begin in the world of social activism. Iscol mentioned several times that most activists experience a moment in their lives that makes them realize they are meant to enter the social justice field. For Iscol, this happened when she was studying sociology at Yale University in 1993 and her father passed away. At this point, she asked herself what she wanted to do with her life and started to explore strategic philanthropy. “I started to think, ‘Well, you have so many years left in your life, what do you really want to do with
JENNY CHENG/the Justice
INSPIRING EXAMPLE: Iscol discussed her book and answered questions about how to initially get involved in social justice work. it? Do you want to isolate yourself and write another dissertation, or would you like to take what you’re doing in terms of philanthropy very seriously?’ And I chose the latter, and I started to learn and study about strategic philanthropy,” Iscol said. “What inspired me to write this book was I was very active in politics. ... After 2008, I decided to take
a break from politics, and I gave myself some time to think about my next steps,” she said. “Upon reflecting on the years that I had been doing the work as president of a small family foundation, I realized that I had gotten to know the most extraordinary, inspiring people ... who could be doing anything with their lives, ... but they had chosen [to devote themselves to
public service].” “I wanted to do something to spread the word about the extraordinary work that so many people I had met, that I had the privilege and honor of knowing, were doing,” she said. Lief spoke about some strategies he has used in his work in social activism, especially the importance of relationships with other non-
profits, studying their models and exchanging strategies. Lief kept things in perspective by acknowledging that in social justice, successes come with many failures, which is why his team tries “to celebrate the small successes,” he said. Iscol said that the non-profit sector and the government have lost progressive interactions. The government is not quick in allowing the necessary risk-taking in order to find what strategies work best. People need to “get together with [their] colleagues who are in the same sector ... to inform policy,” she said. Iscol said that what defines a visionary is confidence, belief in him or herself, problem-solving and knowing when to ask for help, rather than trying to figure out all aspects on their own. She also said it was important to “invent a language to be able to talk to donors.” After the event, Jamie Minton, who will receive her Masters in Public Policy in 2013, shared her thoughts on Iscol’s and Lief’s words: “Being at a school that promotes social justice, it’s great to have these opportunities, and I really like that not only was the author here, but one of her examples of how to change the world came with her, and it was really good to hear, you know, straight from both of their mouths how to be successful in a competitive world and rise above that competitiveness and focus on what you want your goal to be, and so, it was very motivating to be able to listen to their stories.” Jessie Stettin ’13 also added, “I think both of the speakers were ... incredibly inspiring people, and I think that hearing two different approaches from people who are in two different stages in their philanthropic life was just really eyeopening and sort of allowed for us to open our minds to different creative ways in order to make social change.” Iscol stressed that students at Brandeis have the groundwork set up to enter the field. She ended by saying that “each one of these stories is different and perhaps they will help you as you decide which direction you’re going in.”
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TUESDAY, April 3, 2012
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Bar-Yam ’12 brings swings to campus By selene campi0n JUSTICE staff writer
PHOTO COURTESY OF MAAYAN BAR-YAM
PLAY MASTER: Bar-Yam ’12 does a handstand on one of his creations, crafted during “Play Days” that took place on the Great Lawn over the past few weeks.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MAAYAN BAR-YAM
PLAYGROUND FEEL: The numerous swings around campus provide a relaxing break for students and a way for them to clear their minds from daily academic stresses.
Maayan Bar-Yam ’12, the creator of the many red swings around campus, doesn’t like to swing. Despite their appeal to children around the world, he always chooses other playground attractions—swinging makes him dizzy. However, his swing creations at Brandeis have brought happiness to everyone who takes a turn on one. Born in Israel and raised in Newton, Mass., Bar-Yam, a Studio Arts major, is set on his future career: playground design. While he admits to choosing to attend the University based on its kosher food options, Bar-Yam has found recent celebrity as the enigmatic “swing fairy.” “What I want to do is design playgrounds. Early on when I came to Brandeis and was deciding what to major in, I sort of explored the possible routes to get there and the closest thing here was sculpture,” Bar-Yam explained in an interview with the Justice. The Red Swing Project is part of his senior thesis, which, instead of the usual fifty-page paper, involves an extensive art project. “You have to find a theme you’re going for,” he said, “and mine is play.” He drew inspiration from the global Red Swing Project, where people anonymously hang swings in different places around the world to inspire play. The idea was born in Austin, Texas, and since 2007 over 150 swings have been hung around the world, in places ranging from Haiti to Poland. Another project Bar-Yam worked on is placing various materials on the Great Lawn for students to create sculptures. He hung the swings in various spots around campus, some in central locations such as the Great Lawn and Mandel Quad, and others in quieter spots, like next to Kutz Hall. The project
has proved to be immensely popular with the student body. “It’s all about the trees and finding a place on the branches to support them,” he said. “The one on the Great Lawn got used so much it broke, so I had to put up two new ones,” he added. According to Bar-Yam, there is much more to the swings than a pumping back-and-forth motion. “There’s this core idea of play work, which is sort of a profession, but almost a philosophy,” he explains. “What is play? It’s intrinsically motivated. When you do what you want to do without somebody telling you what to do.” Regular playgrounds don’t always allow children to accomplish this. “You’d think you could really do that on any playground and any space, but in more conventional playgrounds, the equipment is really constricting. Kids want to do a lot more than what they can do on a playground. They want to built with things, they want to play with stuff, they want to explore things.” His inspiration for bringing the swings to the Brandeis campus was based on his recent visit to the U.K., where he experienced adventure playgrounds first hand. They are built for anyone ages five and older to come and “do what they want.” According to Bar-Yam, a university like Brandeis is in need of such playful moments. “The core of it is that in a university setting, so much of the time you’re going to classes and doing homework and worried about whatever, that to have these little moments to just go swing, just go relax, just go play. It’s really nice and really important.” The reaction from the student body has confirmed his assumptions. “I never stop hearing about [the swings], which is great, and I love it that people are always telling me about how I made their day.” In times of stress, the swings provide a space for self-reflection or simply a break from the day.
Students who have chosen to swing are happy that they did. Bar-Yam and his senior thesis adviser, Prof. Christopher Abrams (FA), have an ongoing argument about who truly appreciates the swings. Prof. Abrams believes adults admire them from afar, but never take the initiative to go and enjoy them. Bar-Yam believes otherwise: “What I’ve found from seeing people swing on them is that it’s not actually the case. Really everybody really likes them.” Any initial doubts he may have had as to the success of the project have vanished. He used to be concerned about how people would react. “When I put them up I was like are people going to like them? Are people going to be afraid to use them? But everybody likes them,” he says. As a Studio Arts major, Bar-Yam takes a different approach to the installation of his work around campus than an architecture or industrial design student. “I don’t talk about it as art so much unless I’m talking to Abrams, but in some ways it really is art, it’s like an installation. And the installation, rather than being the swing or rather than being the structure that’s built, is really the day, this set of conditions, right? Under which you have this zone that exists in space and time where people can come and the rules are different,” he said. After graduation, Bar-Yam plans to work on the first adventure playground on the East Coast, located in Ithaca, N.Y. Right now, he is content with helping over-worked Brandeis students remember how to have fun again. “What’s so fascinating is that people come and they struggle with the concept of fun a lot,” Bar-Yam says, “It’s difficult when you have complete freedom to do what you want, because we don’t do it so much, we’re out of practice. I’m trying to bring that back.”
Coordinating schedules Mosenkis ’13 creates a website to organize students’ courses By eitan cooper JUSTICE editor
What if there was a way to sift through next semester’s course offerings, highlight courses of interest, view your schedule as it’s created and even receive recommendations for courses you may not have thought to take? Through an independent study with Prof. Tim Hickey (COSI), Computer Science major Eitan Mosenkis ’13 has taken it upon himself to implement a website of exactly this kind at Brandeis. Course selection is a process that affects every student at the University, and the current platform has its fair share of deficiencies. Under the present system, students choose classes from the registrar website, click on a separate link to see a course description, keep track of courses that may conflict, register for classes on sage, and then write down their final schedule for the semester. The problem is simple: The website that students currently use is incredibly outdated. “It’s basically an inactive webpage, … not so different from a piece of paper,” said Mosenkis in an interview with the Justice. “What we have now is basically a replication of a printed bulletin online. All you can really do is read through and search,” said Mosenkis. He pointed to an unnecessarily large
JOSHUA LINTON/the Justice
CLASSES ON VIEW: Mosenkis ’13 (right) formed a website with adviser Prof. Hickey (left) that makes a student’s schedule after they browse and choose classes. number of steps and components that can be consolidated into something much more streamlined. Schdl.net, Mosenkis’ brainchild, is a significant improvement over the current webpage. Included among its many features is the ability to see a listing of all Brandeis courses, their descriptions, which semesters they were taught previously and which semester they will be taught. Additionally, the site allows students to create a username and build their own
schedules—marking each class they encounter as “interested,” “decided to take,” “ruled out” or “enrolled.” Once a student has finished building his or her schedule, it can be easily exported to a Google calendar, iCal or Facebook. The completed schedule can also allow students to easily view which courses they must register for in sage. Another unique feature uses an algorithm to recommend courses that students may enjoy. Mosenkis and Hickey plan to meet
with the University registrar in the coming weeks to explore the feasibility of expanding the website and creating an official partnership with the University to improve the registration process. The idea to launch the website came from Mosenkis’ own negative encounter with choosing courses. “I wouldn’t remember which ones I had rejected. … There was no reasonable way to keep track of it,” said Mosenkis. Instead of suffering through a system that frustrated him, he figured he would be able to apply his skills as a computer programmer to creating something that would benefit not only himself but also students all over campus. “I wanted to help people and save people time … something nags me about having a system stuck in the paper age,” says Mosenkis. While Mosenkis has had guidance from Hickey and a small amount of funding from the Computer Science Department, he modestly admits that “I pretty much did it all by myself,” in a period of three months. The website is currently fully functional. In fact, it was recently moved to a faster server in order to accommodate increased traffic. However, most students still do not know about the helpful tool. Because it was only recently completed, and he has had to balance a heavy course load this semester, Mosenkis has not
had much time to promote the site. He plans to advertise in the Student Union announcements. To date, 45 students have created accounts on the website. Mosenkis hopes that if the website is eventually well-received at Brandeis, it will expand to serve other universities that have yet to implement more modernized course selection systems. The website has the capability of uploading the course catalog from any university—the software is not limited to Brandeis. “I want to see it go places,” said Mosenkis. Even before enrolling at Brandeis, Mosenkis excelled as a computer scientist. He began programming at only 10 years old because he was jealous that his father was teaching his older sister how to program. According to Mosenkis, even though he took a few programming classes in high school and is majoring in Computer Science, his skills are mostly self-taught. Mosenkis’ future plans include graduation this summer, after completing a Justice Brandeis Semester in Computer Science. Next year he looks forward to starting a career with Google as a software engineer. While he will not be able to reap the benefits of his own website, his hope is that his creation will live on and provide much-needed help to students for years to come.
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TUESDAY, april 3, 2012
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THE JUSTICE
Justice Justice
the the
Established 1949, Brandeis University
Brandeis University
Established 1949
Emily Kraus, Editor in Chief Nashrah Rahman, Managing Editor Brian N. Blumenthal, Production Editor Andrew Wingens, Deputy Editor Alana Abramson, Rebecca Blady, Eitan Cooper, Bryan Flatt, Rebecca Klein, Asher Krell, Fiona Lockyer, Tess Raser, Robyn Spector and Marielle Temkin, Associate Editors Sara Dejene and Sam Mintz, News Editors Celine Hacobian, Features Editor Shafaq Hasan, Forum Editor Adam Rabinowitz, Sports Editor Ariel Kay and Emily Salloway, Arts Editors Jenny Cheng and Joshua Linton, Photography Editors Nan Pang, Layout Editor Hillel Buechler, Online Editor Maya Riser-Kositsky, Copy Editor David Wolkoff, Advertising Editor
Budgeting dilemmas This week, the Board of Trustees met to discuss and vote on a budget involving a variety of issues that will affect the University and its students in both the immediate future and the long term. The most notable changes are those that are perhaps the most visible: increases in tuition and lowered class sizes. While it’s unfortunate to see that tuition is once again rising, this year by a more significant margin than in years past, we are glad that the University is beginning to reverse its trend of increasing class sizes and instead lowering its target number of matriculating students for the Class of 2016. In the past, this board has expressed concern over larger class sizes. With this new proposal, we are encouraged the administration is moving in the right direction. The Board increased the cost of attendance for currently enrolled students by 4.1 percent, bringing total costs to $56,022, and increased the cost of attendance for incoming first-years by 4.85 percent, which translates to $56,407. This increased cost is significant, and the upward trend of tuition is troubling for students—now and in the future—and their families. We recognize, however, that this trend exists across higher education and is not isolated to the University. The Board’s vote to increase financial aid by seven percent demonstrates the University’s commitment to making attendance as affordable as possible for
Tuition increase is troubling its students. We hope that the administration continues in that vein by continuing to provide need-based aid and reconsidering the prospect of providing merit-based aid in light of the rapidly rising cost of attendance. As troubled as this board is by the high costs imposed on students, we are pleased to see that the size of the incoming class is projected to be smaller than this year’s first-year class—800 to 820 students as opposed to 858 in previous years. Even though the rising price tag is problematic in many ways, the prospect of reducing the stress on dining, housing and academics posed by the growing student body is heartening. We have commented in the past on the many problems posed by enrolling more students than the University can comfortably accommodate, and this return to a more manageable class size will be a welcome change to those students who hope to take full advantage of their time here. The Board’s decision to have smaller class sizes is a positive change that will hopefully lower the faculty-student ratio and mitigate some of the problems that have been noted as more students have come to Brandeis. While rising costs are a problem, not only with this University but with many nationwide, we are glad that this unfortunate trend will enact positive changes to the experiences of students here.
Campus marches for Martin This past week, the campus saw an overwhelming show of support from students and the administration for Trayvon Martin, the 17-year-old shot and killed by a local neighborhood watchman in Sanford, Fla. The national outcry over the case has left many on campus feeling personally affected by the tragedy. Though the case is ongoing and the circumstances of the killing are still under investigation, we appreciate that the administration recognized students’ frustrations over this national issue and showed its own support for the cause by opening dialogue about the case. While throughout the week students were encouraged to wear their hoods, some on-campus student organizations also hosted a number of events from Thursday night through Friday, including a discussion and candle light vigil. On Friday, University President Frederick Lawrence led the weekly Peace Vigil and later in the day, students listened to Associate Dean of Student Life Jamele Adams recite a poem at the march from the Peace Circle to the Justice Louis Brandeis statue. As the administration does not acknowledge every national tragedy or involve itself in every student demonstration, its participation in this situation reflects its recognition of the case’s importance. The office of Senior Vice President of Students and Enrollment Andrew Fla-
University joins in solidarity gel and Director of Student Activities Stephanie Grimes also sent out campuswide emails briefly describing the case and the campus events taking place that week. These emails illustrate the administration’s substantial efforts to educate students on the shooting and promote greater awareness of the tragedy within the community. The administration was able to communicate the importance of this case to today’s society while still respecting the various politicized interpretations and analyses of the case. While these events would have taken place without the administration’s participation, Mr. Lawrence, Mr. Adams and Mr. Flagel’s personal involvement only further unifies the community and encourages more students to contribute to the campus discussion. At a school where social justice has become ingrained our University’s image, we are glad that the administration and the students came together and commented on the potential shortcomings of justice in this particular case. Though the administration has had similar reactions to past national tragedies, this response demonstrated the University’s unique ability to move past the controversial elements of the shooting and instead show the community its commitment to highlighting an important case for our time.
SARA WEININGER/the Justice
Embrace true identity Rebecca
blady MAELSTRÖM
Over the past few weeks, I became involved in a conversation with the goal of answering the question, “How Jewish is Brandeis?” Together with several Jewish student leaders and Senior Vice President for Students and Enrollment Andrew Flagel, I began to confront Brandeis’ identity crisis. Why does our Jewish community lack cohesion? Why is Brandeis so selfconscious about our lack of diversity? What stops us from freely associating the word “Jewish” with our University? Last week, I had the honor of attending a special dinner with the Board of Trustees and members of the Israeli Knesset who visited the United States last week as Ruderman Fellows. These Members of Knesset, sponsored by the Ruderman Family Foundation and the Office of the President at Brandeis, came to learn about the American Jewish community and strengthen ties with its leaders. The MKs do not come to preach Zionism or publicly justify Israel’s policy decisions. Their visit is designed as a showcase of American Judaism. Brandeis, as one of the country’s most prominent Jewish-sponsored institutions, made this showcase possible. This dinner was nothing like I expected. It connected many loose thoughts I’ve had lately about the University’s responsibility to carry the Jewish tradition even while it must answer to many demands from many international communities. Mr. Flagel tasked me with one question: How Jewish is Brandeis? But meeting with Israeli MKs and our own trustees raised an entirely different question: Why does Brandeis have the right to exemplify American Judaism to international guests? The question troubles me because we have no idea how Jewish we are. When we think about it, our first thoughts usually travel to numbers. What percentage of the undergraduate student body is Jewish? Given the way we frame the concept of “Jewishness” in our minds, there is no good answer. We know that our student body is about 50 to 55 percent Jewish. But in truth, the statistic doesn’t reveal all that much. Recently, I saw a University photographer arranging a group of five students at a table in Usdan Café with plates of food. The students were of different ethnicities. This was disturbing. After a visit shortly thereafter to Brandeis’ Admissions website and looking at the abundance of diverse images, authentic or disingenuous as they may be, it occurred to me that these crafted photos could be a potentially subtler answer to the question, “How Jewish is Brandeis?” But this answer—a manufactured appearance of diversity—rubs me the wrong way. We have a diverse campus full of curious students. Why is Brandeis running from its true identity? I am proud of this University. It is an important answer to prejudice in the history of the United States and the world. It establishes and promotes diversity in academia because higher education must be open and accessible to everyone. Brandeis’ foundational identity demands that we retain these commitments. But I am not proud of our inability to assert our identity. We represent American Judaism, but we do not answer to it. Brandeis’ first objective in developing a clear identity is excellence in academics. To fulfill its original goal of serving as a safe haven for those who were denied access to the best in higher education, Brandeis must uphold standards of academic superiority. It must make it a priority to fill its academic departments with faculty of the highest intellectual caliber and commitment to student learning. This will make all students—regardless of religion, race or ethnicity—proud to be part of our institution and invested in its continuity as an institution of Jewish character. If we had a successful answer to the question, “How Jewish is Brandeis?” we would be answering not to statistics or demographics but to tradition and ritual practice. For example, Brandeis ought to make Shabbat dinner free of charge, open to the public and allowed to adapt to the diverse character of this campus. Make it a “Brandeis thing.” Brandeis tradition can easily mimic Jewish tradition so that students of all backgrounds can touch the values that founded our identity. These values of inclusion and learning, exemplified by a ritual like a Shabbat dinner, ought to come to mind first when explaining how Jewish Brandeis is. To this end, Brandeis need not struggle to convince onlookers that diversity exists here. I urge Mr. Flagel, President Lawrence and the Board of Trustees to continue pioneering our institutional self-examination. Diversity can thrive through our embrace of the approachable elements of Jewish tradition. We must enhance our commitment to academic excellence. Meanwhile, let’s refrain from using Usdan as a stage.
OP-BOX Quote of the Week “Athletics in so many ways represents the heart of this institution.” —Senior Vice President of Students and Enrollment Andrew Flagel commenting on the Brandeis Hall of Fame Induction last Saturday. (Sports, pg. 14)
Brandeis Talks Back What are your thoughts on President Frederick Lawrence’s first year in office?
Nate Rosenbloom ’14 “He’s done a good job and he’s had a more noticeable presence on campus.”
Sara Feit ’15 “I’m not really aware of what he does.”
Kimberly Myers M.A.’13 “This is my first year, so I don’t know what it was like before. But his trips to India and Israel are impressive.”
Jordi Goodman ’12 “He really brought the campus together. He’s very invested, and everybody likes him.” —Compiled by Shafaq Hasan Photos by Jenny Cheng/ the Justice
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TUESDAY, april 3, 2012
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Respect Facebook’s friendly atmosphere By Glen Chagi chesir JUSTICE contributing WRITER
As college students in the 21st century, we are fixated on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Google+, Myspace—the list goes on. We try to post, upload and tweet as much of our lives as humanly possible. We can create gatherings, movements, events and social justice causes all by making a profile page. Facebook makes it easy for us to show our support for a certain profile or page. A simple click of the “like” button and your opinion is expressed. Dean Terry, the director of the emergingmedia program at the University of Texas at Dallas, feels that only half of his opinions are properly expressed on Facebook—more specifically, only the opinions of those he agrees with. Therefore, Terry has created a Facebook application called EnemyGraph that allows you to declare people, ideas or pages as “enemies”. In his explanation of the app, Terry says, “It’s social media blasphemy, in that we’re suggesting that you share differences you have with people and share things that you don’t like instead of what you do like.” Terry would have preferred to use the word “dislike,” a natural antonym for “like,” but the word is literally banned on Facebook to prevent app developers, like Terry, from creating a “dislike” button. Facebook officials have declined to comment on the app. They have also not responded to an online petition with over three million signatures to date asking for a dislike button. One would think that a company like Facebook, that is always updating and looking for new features to satisfy its users, would love to implement what Terry and the three million signees have been calling for, a dislike button. So what’s the holdup? Terry and the three million signees are determined to make Facebook even more integral in their lives. They call for a way to disagree with someone or something, on a cyber platform. However, there are many reasons Terry ignores as to why a dislike button should not be added. These reasons are precisely why Facebook has banned the word for app developers. Firstly, from Facebook’s perspective, it wants a friendly and open image associated with its name, for its entire success is built upon business with other people. They want their users to be able to share and express their opinions freely. With the EnemyGraph app, people will become more hesitant to express themselves on their profiles. Facebook has created an environment where everyone can post freely with little to
MARA SASSOON/ the Justice
no concern about how others will react to it. The users who download this app will become less personal and avoid revealing certain aspects of their life that they would otherwise have posted online. For example, EnemyGraph has a list of “trending enemies.” The top three as of last Friday were GOP candidate Rick Santorum, rock band Nickelback, and the investment firm Merrill Lynch. If someone works for Santorum’s campaign or is a fan of Nickelback’s music, he or she may be less inclined to share that piece of information on his or her profile. The creators of this app would argue that those people don’t have to use the app because, after all, it is created by an outside party and it is not required on your profile. This counter-argument is precisely the reason why EnemyGraph has struggled to get
off the ground despite national coverage on CNN, among other media outlets. People are less likely to express themselves via posting if anyone can criticize that post with the click of a button. Another reason why this app should not be added to Facebook is the unavoidable negative conversation that would follow. In today’s world, our in-person interactions are dwindling due to the ever-expanding cyber universe. For most topics, stating your distaste is totally appropriate online. However, there are sensitive topics about which this app could spark conversation. Facebook cannot form a list of controversial or potentially condescending issues that should be avoided, for those issues are subjective and relative to each individual. Some may feel that disagreeing with their
religious beliefs is inappropriate and insensitive, while others may feel that disagreeing with their sexual orientation is tasteless and disdainful. This kind of conversation will inevitably stem from an enemy button and is not appropriate on Facebook. With the ever-growing world of social media, we must make calculated decisions as to what belongs on our profiles and what does not. Referring to people, places or ideas as enemies is neither in the best interest of Facebook nor Facebook users. This is not what Facebook was created for. Rather, it’s a forum for online socializing, keeping in touch and reconnecting. Facebook is not the ideal forum to discuss sensitive matters; rather, these topics should be discussed in-person.
Raise awareness and find justice for Trayvon By JV SOUFFRANT SPECIAL TO THE jUSTICE
For those of you sitting unaware in Einstein Bros. Bagels and sipping your large iced coffee, Trayvon Martin was a 17-year-old boy gunned downed outside his father’s home in Sanford, Fla. on Feb. 26. While taking a break from watching the NBA All-Star game, Trayvon left the gated community to go to the corner store for candy and iced tea. While he was walking home, a self-proclaimed Neighborhood Watchman named George Zimmerman decided that this black teenager wearing a hoodie with his hands tucked in his pockets looked “suspicious.” It was raining heavily and Trayvon was only trying to keep his cell phone, Skittles and iced tea from getting wet. Zimmerman called 911 and began following “the suspect” around the community, even after the police dispatcher told him to stop and wait for police to arrive and handle the situation. Instead, Zimmerman, who was armed with a loaded handgun, confronted Trayvon, who was armed with a bag of Skittles. Neighbors
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heard shouting, desperate cries for help, a single gunshot and then, silence. Zimmerman said he shot Trayvon in the chest in self-defense. He has not been arrested. When I got the first phone call about Trayvon Martin from a friend at home in Florida, the first question I asked myself was, “Why would an innocent unarmed teen be shot while walking home from a convenience store with a bag of Skittles and iced tea?” Was it because he was wearing a hoodie in a gated community? Was it because he had his hands in his pockets? Was it because he was black? My second question was, “Why isn’t this story on the front page of every newspaper?” Trayvon Martin’s murder finally made the front page of The New York Times on March 21, nearly a month after the shooting. The fact that Zimmerman had still not been charged prompted widespread protests and the intervention of the U.S. Department of Justice. That’s a start. But this is an issue that has been pressing at the doorstep of American society for gener-
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The opinions stated in the editorial(s) under the masthead on the opposing page represent the opinion of a majority of the voting members of the editorial board; all other articles, columns, comics and advertisements do not necessarily. For the Brandeis Talks Back feature on the opposite page, staff interview four randomly selected students each week and print only those four answers. The Justice is the independent student newspaper of Brandeis University. Operated, written, produced and published entirely by students, the Justice includes news, features, arts, opinion and sports articles of interest to approximately 3,200 undergraduates, 800 graduate students, 500 faculty and 1,000 administrative staff. In addition, the Justice is mailed weekly to paid subscribers and distributed throughout Waltham, Mass. The Justice is published every Tuesday of the academic year with the exception of examination and vacation periods. Advertising deadlines: All insertion orders and advertising copy must be received by the Justice no later than 5 p.m. on the Thursday preceding the date of publication. All advertising copy is subject to approval of the editor in chief and the managing and advertising editors. A publication schedule and rate card is available upon request. Subscription rate: $35 per semester, $55 per year.
ations. From Emmett Till to Michael Griffith to Yusef Hawkins to Amadou Diallo to Sean Bell to Troy Davis and, now, to Trayvon Martin, the streets run red with the blood of too many innocent, young black men. I could have been Trayvon Martin. I grew up in Ocoee, Fla., a town much like Sanford; 35 minutes away, a town of rural farms and small gated communities where a trip to the corner store for candy could end badly for a young black man, confronted by a Neighborhood Watchman. “J, that could have been us, bro,” my friend said when he called to tell me about the killing. “We could have been Trayvon when we were 17. What is stopping them from pulling the trigger?” For all the talk of a “post-racial” America, I would not feel safe if confronted by a self-proclaimed Neighborhood Watchman in Wellesley or Weston, where the mere presence of a young black man would raise “suspicion.” Can any of my white classmates relate to that fear? This situation is not only about racial profiling; it is about justice. In a state like Florida, where it is easier to purchase a gun than register to vote, there are lots of underlying
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issues to be resolved. When the White House releases a statement saying that Trayvon’s death is a “local law-enforcement matter,” we have a problem. President Barack Obama, a former community organizer, knows firsthand what young black men and women face growing up in America and how this incident with Trayvon is not just something out of the blue. Every person of color in America is Trayvon Martin. He could have been us. Our dreams could have been taken away just like they were from this young man. At Brandeis, we pride ourselves in our belief in social justice. We are quick to champion causes like Invisible Children in Africa and shout “Stop Kony.” However, in this moment of truth at home, we must also fight for Trayvon Martin and shout “Stop Zimmerman.” Evidence of Trayvon’s murder is not in YouTube videos, Facebook pages, Twitter posts or Tumblr blogs. It is in the Twin Lakes Subdivision where the police, so far, have chosen not to look. Editor’s note: The writer is a member of the Class of 2013.
Editorial Assistants News: Tate Herbert Layout: Rachel Burkhoff Staff Senior Writers: Josh Asen, Aaron Berke, Wei HuanChen, Amy Melser, Shelly Shore Senior Illustrator: Sara Weininger Senior Photographer: Alex Margolis News: Shani Abramowitz, Tyler Belanga, Jonathan Epstein, Danielle Gross, Luke Hayslip, Raquel Kallas Features: Selene Campion, Jessie Miller, Rachel Miller, Gabrielle Santoro Forum: Aaron Fried, Philip Gallagher, Diego Medrano, Joshua Nass, Sara Shahanaghi, Naomi Volk Sports: Jacob Elder, Becca Elwin, Henry Loughlin,
Jacob Lurie, Jacob Moskowitz, Madeleine Stix Arts: Damiana Andonova, Alex DeSilva, Olivia Leiter, Leanne Ortbals, Louis Polisson, Mara Sassoon, Ayan Sanyal, Maya Shemtov, Aziz Sohail, Viet Tran, Dan Willey Photography: Jon Edelstein, Nathaniel Freedman, Josh Horowitz, Josh Spiro, Michelle Wang, Anna Yatskar Copy: Aliza Braverman, Jennie Bromberg, Kinza Kukhari, Patricia Greene, Andrew Hayes, Max Holzman, Brittany Joyce, Eunice Ko, Megan Paris, Christine Phan, Mailinh Phan-Nguyen, Leah Rogers, Suzy Schatz, Will Schneiderman, Amanda Winn Layout: Jassen Lu, Denny Poliferno, Michelle Yi Illustrations: Mara Sassoon, Arielle Shorr, Tziporah Thompson
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TUESDAY, April 3, 2012
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Reevaluate worth and abolish the penny By andrea honig JUSTICE contributing writer
Since its introduction in 1793, the penny has become a beloved part of American culture. It gives us a chance to honor good ole Abe Lincoln, as well as something to squish into shapes when we visit amusement parks and rest stops. It also is the inspiration for many of our everyday sayings, such as: “Find a penny, pick it up, all day long you’ll have good luck;” “A penny for your thoughts?” and of course “A penny saved is a penny earned.” If nothing else, the penny adds some color to the otherwise grey span of American coinage. Although the penny has a lot going for it culturally, it has nothing going for it finacially. In fact, it does more harm than good when it comes to economics. Because the point of money is to make transactions more efficient, it is time to let the penny fall to the wayside. It is time to realize that we can’t cling to symbols of our past, especially when it is harmful to us. It is time for the United States to abolish the penny. First, let’s look at what the penny costs us: According to the U.S. Mint, the penny is made up of 97.5 percent zinc and 2.5 percent copper and has been since 1982. Due to the rising prices of these metals, the penny costs more and more to produce each year. It currently costs 2.4 cents to create one penny, which is only equal to one cent in value. That is a loss of 140 percent for each penny produced, of which almost five billion were minted last year alone. But, the cost of the penny goes beyond this initial price. The penny is also detrimental to opportunity cost, a term economists use to refer to the amount of money you could have been making had you been doing something else. According to an article by the Washington Post, pennies, on average, add about two to two and a half seconds to each cash transaction. This time affects not only the person paying, but the cashier and the people waiting in line. This all boils down to a loss of about $3.65 per American per year. Multiply this by 300 million Americans and you get a loss of over a billion dollars to the U.S. economy each year. Not only does the penny cost us, it also fails at its job of easing transactions—the purpose of money. Pennies add time to transactions and it is also difficult to actually spend them. According to the U.S. mint, a penny weighs about 2.5 grams, meaning a dollar in pennies weighs about half a pound. Try going to Hannaford supermarket and spending only pennies on the solo cups and ping pong balls—I mean the carrots and dip— you went there to pick up. Beyond that, can you name a machine that accepts pennies? Not parking meters or vending machines—or worse yet—laundry machines. Why is this? Pennies are not worth the cost
TZIPORAH THOMPSON/the Justice
that it takes to transport and store them. You may ask: Won’t getting rid of the penny cause prices to go up and charity donations to go down? After all, the Salvation Army depends on loose change and businesses will do what ever they can to get as much money out of each customer as possible. The answer to those questions is no. New Zealand and Australia both abolished their one-cent coins in the last decade due to their decreasing value, and neither country saw a rise in prices or a fall in donations. This is because stores were as likely to round up to the nearest $.05 as they were to round down. Here is an example: One of the reasons prices are often $4.99 or $29.99 is because it causes the buyer to think they are getting something at four or 29 dollars, not at five or 30. Stores may round down to $4.95 and $29.95 to continue this effect. New Zealand and Australia are not the only
countries to follow this trend. Last week, Canada adopted a measure to phase out their one-cent coin starting in the fall of this year. The United States could benefit highly in joining this progressive trend. It wouldn’t be the first time the United States Mint stopped producing a coin because the value was too low. In 1872, we said goodbye to the half-cent. The change was due to the fact that the government determined it had too little value and was useless to Americans in their everyday lives. It is also important to note that when this was determined, the half-cent had as much buying power as a dime does today. What’s the penny’s worth to us? It has cultural value, but is that enough? I don’t believe so. While cultural heritage is important, honoring the past should stop when it starts to
harm the future. The penny is doing that now. Prices of metals will continue to rise, and even if they start producing the penny in a cheaper material— what is the point? The penny is useless in everyday life. We more often bemoan pennies while we scramble to make change at the counter than we honor them. For most Americans, pennies are nothing more than food for their piggy banks. I think we need to look beyond the logical fallacy of “We have always had it therefore it must be good.” I believe it is time to stop wasting money on a piece of metal that is more likely to end up in a jar than in a store register. It is time that we realize that a penny saved is less then a penny earned. It is time to say good-bye to the penny. I’m sure Abraham Lincoln will forgive us— after all, he is still on the five-dollar bill.
Realize past mistakes; apologize to Hindley By ALANA ABRAMSON JUSTICE editor
According to the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education, Brandeis is one of the worst universities in terms of promoting free speech, a finding that was published in the Huffington Post last week. The Huffington Post list, compiled by Greg Lukianoff, the president of FIRE, explains that Brandeis is on the list because of an incident involving Prof. Donald Hindley (POL) in fall 2007, when he used the word “wetbacks”— a derogatory term for Mexicans illegally in the U.S.—in his Latin American Politics class. After Hindley’s remarks, the University placed a monitor in his classroom and did not allow him a hearing. According to FIRE, these actions signaled a violation of his academic freedom. I must admit, I was surprised to find Brandeis on this list, as I have never felt that Brandeis restricted free speech at all throughout my four years here. I have always found that both professors and students are at liberty to voice their opinions. So, I decided to do a couple of Google searches trying to find any indication of the event and the administration’s reactions online. What I found was basically what the Huffington Post article explained, along with a
couple of letters from FIRE to then-University President Jehuda Reinharz urging the administration to apologize to Hindley. I was still in high school when Hindley was repudiated for making his remarks and had scant knowledge of the incident until this week.
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I was surprised to find Brandeis on this list, as I have never felt that Brandeis restricted speech at all. Consequently, I do not think I am the proper person to assess whether he or the administration were right in their actions. I can read past coverage on the issue and have done so, but since I was not on campus, I am simply not in the position to judge or make an informed opinion about the matter.What I do think, however, is that the University needs to lay this issue to rest by issuing Hindley a formal apology because its refusal to do so has negatively impacted our institution.
How can a school that prides itself on a mission of inclusivity and justice appear intolerant towards members of its own faculty? While it seems the administration’s actions toward Hindley may have violated his academic freedom, we should not be defined by an incident that happened four years ago. I confidently believe a majority of students would refute Lukianoff’s analysis, claiming that the University does and has promoted free speech both inside and outside the classroom. Remember the outcry over the decision to bring Michael Oren as commencement speaker? Or the protests over the decision to close the Rose Art Museum? Free speech and academic freedom were alive and well in both situations. In fact, I believe students were reprimanded by sources outside the University, not the administration, for voicing their opinions. I fear that if the administration does not apologize to Hindley, this one incident will overshadow all of the instances that embody appreciation of First Amendment rights, consequently giving the University a false image in the public arena. It is not always beneficial to be swayed by public demands, but I think in this case it is the right thing to do to preserve the school’s
reputation, particularly its emphasis on social justice. While Lukianoff acknowledges that Reinharz failed to defend Hindley’s academic rights, he hopes “that the new administration will put this incident behind it and finally expunge the harassment finding against Hindley or, at the very least, explain that no such incident would happen at Brandeis again.” While I disagree with Lukianoff’s assessment of Brandeis’ suppression or stance of of first amendment rights overall, I agree with him on this matter. University President Fredrick Lawrence is a preeminent scholar on hate crimes and First Amendment rights, a position that is emphasizing his failure to issue a response to this matter. Since Lawrence assumed the position of president a year ago, he has implemented several changes and programs that have placed the University in a positive light, like settling the lawsuit over the Rose Art Museum and reopening the Linsey pool. Lawrence and the new administration should now turn their attention to this pressing matter. The administration needs to apologize to Hindley in order to simply put the matter behind them so they can be respected for their commendable protection of academic freedom.
THE JUSTICE
PACKING A PUNCH
By JACOB ELDER JUSTICE STAFF WRITER
JOSH HOROWITZ/the Justice
FIREBALL: Rookie starting pitcher Kyle Brenner ’15 fires a pitch to home in a 10-2 rout to Western New England last Thursday.
BASEBALL: Team continues to reel after string of defeats things didn’t go our way,” he said. “Without a couple errors here and there, we could’ve done really well. It’s frustrating, but we go to work every day, giving it the best we have.” Last Thursday, while the grill was still heating up for the Bronstein week barbeque, the Judges were ice-cold, falling to Western New England by a score of 10-2. Brenner started off strong in the first inning, allowing only two hits to the Golden Bears. In the second inning, with
his first pitch at bat into left field, carrying Nicholson home for a RBI single in the bottom of the eighth inning, Third baseman Tommy McCarthy ’15 drove Nicholson home two batters later, rocketing the ball past the opposing shortstop into left field, allowing Nicholson to score his second run of the game. Despite opportunity to change their fate, this would be the final run of the game for the Judges. The team will look to regroup against Tufts University tomorrow at 3:30 p.m at home.
SOFTBALL: Squad passes endurance tests at home CONTINUED FROM 16 ing to tack on a couple more runs. With two runners on base, Porcaro reached second base on an error and Brandeis found itself with a 4-0 lead. Genovese explained the importance of Brandeis’ powerful offense in supporting the pitching and increasing momentum for the team. “We backed [our pitchers] up offensively by either getting hits, putting the ball in play or walks,” she said. The Judges’ offense seemed to find its pulse against Wellesley, finally coming together after numerous struggles all season. Ducinski tossed a complete game and struck out six batters. Last Tuesday, the Judges enjoyed the sunny weather for the first game
of their doubleheader against Emerson College. Given that Brandeis lost 8-0 to Emerson just three weeks ago, the team was looking for revenge against its cross-town rivals. However, Brandeis could not gain its full revenge, losing 6-4 in the first game. In the top of the first inning, Miller allowed two walks with a runner on first to load the bases. After a single and a key error, the Lions quickly notched a 2-0 lead. In the next inning, Emerson sophomore outfielder Bianca Buono hit a home run with two runners on base, putting the game out of reach for the Judges. However, Brandeis would get the last laugh. In an extra-inning thriller, the Judges overcame Lesley University in a back-and-forth struggle,
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Judges begin spring season on a high note
track and field squads both performed well at their first spring meet of the season.
no outs, the Golden Bears notched a leadoff double and then a single to put two runners on base. After an RBI groundout to close off the inning, Western New England had jumped out to a 2-0 lead. In the following two innings, the Golden Bears drove in four more runs after two errors by the Judges. The Judges would finally get on the scoreboard in the sixth inning. Nicholson started the inning with a triple down the right field line, sneaking past the glove of the Golden Bears right fielder to roll all the way to the wall. Destremps hit
TUESDAY, April 3, 2012
TRACK AND FIELD
■ The men’s and women’s
CONTINUED FROM 16
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eventually coming through with a 10-9 victory. After seven innings, the score was tied at 8-8. Lesley scored a run in the top of the 8th inning, forcing Brandeis to come up with two runs in the bottom of the inning to stay alive. The Judges did more than just score, however, driving in two runs to cap off a nail-biter. Genovese came home on a single from utility player Marianne Specker ’12. With the bases loaded, sophomore pitcher Melissa Nolan was hit by a pitch, bringing the winning run to the plate and ending the game on an unconventional walk-off play. The Judges hope to build upon their momentum in a doubleheader against Lasell College today, beginning at 3:30 p.m.
After an impressive winter season, the men’s and women’s track squads transferred that momentum into a strong start this spring. Individuals from each squad turned in dominating performances last weekend at the non-scoring Tufts Snowflake Classic at Tufts University. The invitational presented a chance for Brandeis athletes to practice for the scoring meets that will occur later in the season. Alex Kramer ’13 stated that the Snowflake Classic helped members of each squad train to be in top form and also pepare for future meets. “It was just an opener, allowing us to get ready for races down the road and get into mid-season form where it’s more important,” he said. Even though it was a non-scoring meet, Brandeis runners gave it their all. In a field that included many Division I runners, Chris Brown ’12 and Ed Colvin ’14 led Brandeis with exemplary finishes in the 1,500-meter and 5,000-meter run, respectively. In his first race since his AllAmerican finish, Brown started where he left off, finishing second out of 80 runners with a time of three minutes, 58.83 seconds. Colvin stormed ahead to a first-place finish with a time of 15:08.49. Kramer was extremely impressed with the performances of both Brown and Colvin, noting they could emerge as two of the premier Division III runners this spring. “Brown is going to be among the better long distance runners in Division III this spring, while Colvin is a rising star as only a sophomore,” Kramer said. Kramer finished in sixth place in 4:05.00, while Marc Boutin ’12 placed right behind him in seventh
with a time of 4:05.25 in the race. In the 100-meter dash, Stanley Ye ’15 turned in a solid performance with a time of 11.87 seconds, while Josh Hoffman-Senn ’13 impressed in the 400-meter dash with a time of 53.97 seconds. In the 800-meter run, Mik Kern ’13 finished ninth with a time of 1:57.55. In the high jump, Jeffrey Maser ’15 finished 11th with 1.81 meters. Mohamed Sidique ’15 leaped 6.04 meters in the long jump. On the women’s side, Victoria Sanford ’14, Ali Kirsch ’14 and Amelia Lundkvist ’14 formed an imposing trio among the various Division I athletes in the 1,500-meter run. Sanford finished in eighth-place in 4:57.65, and Kirsch finished ninth with a time of 4:58.42. Lundkvist rounded out the group of Brandeis runners with a 14th-place finish in 5:02.45. Lily Parenteau ’12 extended her string of notable finishes, starting the spring season off with a third-place finish in the high jump at a height of 1.53 meters. Alyssa Fenenbock ’15 made a statement in the javelin throw for the Judges, throwing for a distance of 28.15 meters, where she finished 18th. Kramer is optimistic about the prospects for both squads in this spring season. After a record-setting winter, in which the Judges sent two athletes to the NCAAs, he believes that even more notable finishes are in store for each squad. “Everyone seems to be starting off where they need to be,” he said. “As long as we keep this pace up, each athlete can do impressive things down the road.” Maser was impressed with the teams' performances, but stated that both squads will have to prepare exhaustively in light of the numerous challenges ahead. “Although the team has been performing well, it's not an easy transition to make, but as long as we continue to get our work done outside in practice, we’re going to be able to adjust perfectly fine." Both squads return to action this Saturday when they travel to the University of Massachusetts Lowell to compete at the George Davis Invitational.
TENNIS: Men plagued by injury in road loss CONTINUED FROM 16 feat in an 8-5 decision. Heading into Saturday’s match, though, Jordan was very excited for the team to have another chance to succeed. “With the recently postponed matches, we’re really looking forward to getting back out there and looking forward to playing some good tennis,” he said. “As with any dual match, the key is aggressive doubles and smart singles.” With that mentality, the Judges put up a fight and played well but could only notch one win at the No. 4 spot. The men could not succeed in their other three singles matches. Jordan lost 6-1, 7-5 at No. 1, Yovanoff fell at No.2 6-2, 6-3, while Siegel at No. 3 was defeated 6-3, 6-0. While it was the second consecutive loss for the men, Siegel pointed out the importance of being able to bounce back in spite of defeat.
“We need to show ourselves, our coach and other teams in our conference that we are a force,” he said. “In the past, we have bounced back after a tough loss, so hopefully, we do the same [in the future].” The men's squad will host the Massachusetts Institute of Technology this Thursday at 3 p.m. in hopes of halting its losing streak and avenging the 9-0 loss to Bates. In order to do this, the Judges must avoid the injury bug that has bested them all season, particularly captain Steven Milo '13, often in the No. 1 slot. The women will host Skidmore College this Friday at 1 p.m. The team will hope to continue in their top-notch effort, especially after defeating another nationallyranked rival. After that, the team will compete in the Wellesley Invitational this Saturday and Sunday. The Judges' opponents will not be announced until after the first round has been played.
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TUESDAY, April 3, 2012
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THE JUSTICE
SWORN IN: The daughter of Harold Zinn ’61 is being honored in lieu of her father.
GLORY DAYS: Three starters on the 1970 men’s basketball team are pictured above, including Robert Nayer ’70 (center).
Night of stars Hall of Fame welcomes six inductees By HENRY LOUGHLIN JUSTICE STAFF WRITER
While Brandeis athletics give the University much reason to be excited about the present, the Hall of Fame induction last Saturday night allowed for some reflection on past accomplishments. Held at the Gosman Sports and Convocation Center, the 2012 induction to Brandeis’ Sports Hall of Fame featured the initiation of six individuals. Ruth Porter Bernstein ’57, the late Harold Warren Zinn ’61, Robert Nayer ’70, William Carpenter ’81, Geoff Getz ’99, and Maya Marx ’04 were all recognized for their contributions in front of a crowd of 100 alumni, friends and athletics staff. Speaking at the beginning of the ceremony, Senior Vice President of Students and Enrollment Andrew Flagel explained that athletics exemplify the many positive qualities of the University. “Athletics in so many ways represents the heart of this institution,” said Flagel. “Leadership. Commitment. A common thread in our society is excellence in athletics. Camaraderie. Leadership. Putting others above yourself.” Porter Bernstein, a Winthrop, Mass. native, was inducted under the contributor category for her service on the board—and as president—of Friends of Brandeis Athletics (FOBA). Bernstein, who was also a member of the first undefeated women’s basketball team that went 13-0 in 1956, mentioned that she was glad to have her young grandchildren in the crowd. She expressed her hope that they would understand how she earned her induction.
“I want my grandchildren to know that finding something you love and giving your best to it will bring untold reward,” she said. “Thank you so much for this wonderful honor.” Zinn, honored posthumously, was one of the founding members of the Brandeis golf team. Though he passed away in 1991, his legacy endures as one of the finest golfers in not only school history, but in the New England region. Nayer, who ranks 18th in points and second in rebounds on the men’s basketball team’s all-time list, said that he was honored to be inducted into such a prestigious group of individuals. “I was very thrilled,” said Nayer, who works as the director of operating and capital budgets at Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Ore. “Honored. Humbled. Really appreciative, very proud,” he said. “It means so much to me.” Carpenter, the Greater Boston League MVP his senior year, had a two-year stint in the minor leagues. After a memorable season in which he batted .458 in his senior year, Carpenter remembered the good times he had on the diamond, mentioning how excited he was to come back to campus. “I got just as excited driving down South Street towards the school today as I did 35 years ago,” said Carpenter, who currently coaches American Legion baseball in Connecticut. A three-time NCAA Division III National Champion in the 800-meter run, Getz still manages to run competitively at 35 years old. He is currently employed as an IT consultant for Z-TECH Associates, a company he began working for
while a sophomore at Brandeis. Though Getz is not as quick as when he ran a scorching time of 1:50 for the 800-meter, Getz, who lives in nearby Wayland, still reflects on his days as a Judge with great pride. “We had some really talented middle-distance runners under [coach] Bruce Bickford [who was at one point ranked first in the world at 10,000 meters],” he said. “I think we got fourth at [NCAA Division III] cross-country nationals one year.” Amid his extensive accomplishments, Getz said that he was humbled to be honored. “I was surprised,” he added. “I’m flattered, of course. There are a lot of other good athletes here. I don’t know what the selection criteria [are], but I’m very honored.” Marx, a three-time qualifier for the NCAA Division III Swimming & Diving Championships and three-time All-American in the breaststroke, cited her then-coach [and current Assistant Director of Athletics] Jim Zotz as her mentor. During her induction speech, Marx announced something personal—she and husband, former Judges swimmer Nick Dufresne ’04, are expecting their first child this fall. “We hope they’ll swim, but we won’t pressure them,” Marx joked. Though the next induction has already been planned for Oct. 12, 2013, there will be plenty of time for the Brandeis community to commemorate the accomplishments of these individuals. With current success on the fields, courts, trails and track, the task for those selecting future nominees will only be more challenging.
GUEST OF HONOR: William Carpenter ’81 speaks after being inducted on Saturday.
PHOTOS BY JOSHUA LINTON/the Justice
TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE: Various pieces of Judges memorabilia are pictured above from the 1970s and 1980s, including plaques and trophies from former slugger and inductee William Carpenter ’81.
THE JUSTICE
jUDGES BY THE NUMBERS TEAM STATS
Runs Batted In
Not including Monday’s games UAA Conference W L Emory 7 1 WashU 5 3 Case 4 4 Rochester 3 5 JUDGES 1 7 Chicago 0 0
Overall W L Pct. 18 8 .692 20 6 .769 15 10 .600 4 12 .250 5 20 .208 8 5 .615
UPCOMING GAMES: Today at Tufts Tomorrow at MIT Thurs. at Rhode Island College Saturday vs. Colby (2)
TUESDAY, APRIL 3, 2012
15
ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
baseball UAA STANDINGS
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Dan Gad ’15 leads the team this season with 12 RBIs. Player RBI Dan Gad 12 Pat Nicholson 8 Zach Malis 7 Sean O’Hare 7
Cooke stirs up success in debut for the Judges
Strikeouts Mike Swerdloff ’13 leads the pitching staff with 18 Ks. Player Ks Mike Swerdloff 18 Pat Nicholson 17 Kyle Brenner 16 Colin Markel 11
SOFTBALL UAA STANDINGS
TEAM STATS
Not including Monday’s games UAA Conference Emory WashU Rochester Case JUDGES Chicago
W 6 4 4 3 3 0
L 2 4 4 5 5 0
W L 25 3 15 6 8 7 16 10 8 8 12 4
Runs Batted In
Overall Pct. .893 .714 .533 .615 .500 .750
UPCOMING GAMES: Today vs. Lasell (2) Tomorrow vs. Suffolk (2) Friday vs. Endicott (2) Wed. April 11 vs. Wheaton (2)
Brittany Grimm ’15 leads the squad this year with 13 RBIs. Player RBI Brittany Grimm 13 Marianne Specker 13 Lauren Porcaro 11 Anya Kamber 8
Strikeouts Caroline Miller ’12 leads all pitchers with 17 strikeouts. Player Ks Caroline Miller 17 Amanda Genovese 11 Lauren Porcaro 9 Leah McWilliams 8
TRACK AND FIELD Results from the Snowflake Classic at Tufts University on Saturday.
NOTABLE FINISHES (Men’s)
NOTABLE FINISHES (Women’s)
1,500-METER DASH TIME Chris Brown 3:58.83 5,000-METER RUN TIME Edward Colvin 15:08.49 HIGH JUMP DISTANCE Jeffrey Maser 1.81 meters
1,500-METER DASH TIME Victoria Sanford 4:57.65 1,500-METER RUN TIME Ali Kirsch 4:58.42 HIGH JUMP DISTANCE Lily Parenteau 1.53 meters
JON EDELSTEIN/the Justice
COUNTER-ATTACK: Carley Cooke ’15 fires back a shot against her opponent from Bentley College at home on March 22.
■ Carley Cooke ’15 has made
UPCOMING MEET: The track teams will next compete at the George Davis Invitational at the University of Massachusetts at Lowell this upcoming Saturday.
a statement in her inaugural season, winning eight of 10 singles matches this season. By JOSH ASEN
TENNIS
JUSTICE SENIOR WRITER
Results from matches at Bates College on March 31.
NOTABLE FINISHES (Men’s)
NOTABLE FINISHES (Women’s)
MEN’S SINGLES Steven Milo
RECORD 5-3
WOMEN’S SINGLES Carley Cooke
RECORD 9-2
MEN’S DOUBLES Bielfield/Siegel
RECORD 2-2
WOMEN’S DOUBLES Cooke/Levine
RECORD 2-1
UPCOMING MEET: The men’s team will next host the Massachusetts Institute of Technology this Thursday at 3:00 p.m., while the women’s squad takes on Skidmore College on Friday at 1:00 p.m.
In her first season on the Brandeis women’s tennis team, Carley Cooke ’15 has made quite the impact, playing in every match at the No. 1 slot for singles and as a member of the first doubles team. Her play has catapulted the Judges, who are 9-1 on the season, to a No. 19 national ranking. Cooke is part of a squad that has taken the Northeast by storm, soaring to a No. 15 ranking in the Northeast. While Cooke has played many competitive matches as the top seed, she has not felt the pressure one would expect a first-year would have in her position. “I haven’t really felt much pres-
sure at all,” Cooke said. “It’s been mostly just fun, especially playing with [Faith Broderick ’13] in doubles, but the competitiveness of our conference and all the matches we’ve played so far has been pretty much fun for me, overall.” Cooke, who hails from San Diego, has won eight of her 10 singles matches, as well as eight of her 10 doubles matches this year. Even though her exceptional play is clearly evident, Cooke has had to adjust to playing in a more competitive atmosphere compared to high school. “High school tennis for me wasn’t like anything like college tennis because my school wasn’t nearly as competitive as it is here, so I’ve never really a experienced a team culture or atmosphere like we have here,” she said. “I have been on many teams before because I played soccer for a long time, but I’ve never been on a real tennis team like this.”
With several matches remaining until the University Athletic Association Championships, Cooke seeks to continue practicing and training at a high level to not only improve the team’s ranking, but also her own play. “I just need to keep working on my game, especially with my coach,” Cooke said. “We’ve hit a lot individually, and that’s been really important for me. I’m always constantly improving my general athleticism with runs that we do with the team and lifting. “I think athleticism is super important because I’m always playing the best players the school has to offer, so I have to be ready for that every time,” she said. The women’s tennis squad next plays Friday at the Wellesley Invitational against Skidmore College. The Invitational will also be held on Saturday and Sunday, but the teams competing will not be announced until then,
BOSTON BRUINS BEAT Bruins seek to defend Stanley Cup after clinching second consecutive Northeast Division championship Tied 2-2 in last Tuesday’s game against the Tampa Bay Lightning, left wing Benoit Pouliot slotted home a goal in the third period to put the Bruins ahead for good. Boston would leave the Lightning in the dust after that pivotal goal, winning handily in a 5-2 rout. However, the outcome was not clear at the beginning of the game. After a sloppy giveaway in the middle of the ice, Tampa Bay center Steven Stamkos released a wrist shot from the point on the right side that beat Bruins goalie Tim Thomas and gave the visitors a 1-0 lead. That lightning strike occurred just a mere five minutes into the first period. Defenseman Zdeno Chára—who had been honored before the game for playing his 1,000th game on Saturday against the Anaheim Mighty Ducks— swooped in from the right side, beat-
ing two defenders en route to the goal. While his effort was denied on the doorstep by the seemingly impenetrable Dwayne Roloson, left wing Shawn Thornton was in prime position to bury the rebound in goal to tie things up with 10 minutes, 54 seconds gone. Fittingly, Chara would bring in the second goal. Having been denied by Roloson on a slapshot moments earlier, he tried his luck again. While he wasn’t able to solve the goalkeeper on his second attempt, the puck dropped in a prime position for defenseman Dennis Seidenberg, who slotted it home to put the Bruins up with 4:55 left in the period. Stamkos would slide the puck past Thomas five minutes, 46 seconds into the third period to give the scoreboard a new look and raise concern in the crowd at TD Garden.
Pouliot would light the lamp with 8:26 to go, putting the Bruins ahead by a score of 3-2. Left wing Brad Marchand and center Rich Peverley dropped in two more goals to put the game out of reach for Tampa Bay. Though they lost their second game of the week to the Washington Capitals in a shootout, the Bruins made things interesting until the very end. Losing 2-0 with less than four minutes left, the Bruins struck twice in the final 3:10 to improbably tie the game. “They battled back, but we just had to keep our heads straight,” said Washington left wing Alexander Ovechkin. “We had to get back on track.” Boston would pay for its inability to score early in the third period. Having received a pass in the middle from fellow defenseman Marcus Johansson, Dennis Wideman fired the goal past
Thomas to give Washington the lead with over 12 minutes remaining. It got worse only a few minutes later. A poor pass from Bruins defenseman Andrew Ference gave Ovechkin all the time in the world to glide down the left side, firing a pass to Johansson, who then drilled the puck past Thomas with 10:06 left. However, there was some hope left in the building, as center David Krejci struck to bring the deficit to one. The improbable then became reality with just 76 seconds remaining in regulation. After receiving the puck about 20 feet from goal, Ference ripped a shot past Capitals goalie Michael Neuwrith, completing his team’s shocking comeback. The game would ultimately come down to a shootout. After center Matt Hendricks scored for Washington,
center Tyler Seguin gave the Bruins some hope with a fine effort, setting the stage for Thomas to deny Ovechkin. The goalkeeper didn’t disappoint. Right wing Alexander Semin kept the tie alive, beating Thomas high to send the shootout to sudden death. Peverley sent a meek shot right into Neuwirth’s glove, halting the Bruins’ comeback. The Bruins would soon forget about the loss, sweeping the New York circuit last weekend to seal a playoff spot as the Northeast Division winners. Boston routed the Islanders 6-3, while skating past the Rangers by a 2-1 margin. The Bruins hope to keep the momentum alive in a home game at TD Garden against the Pittsburgh Penguins tonight at 7:30 p.m.
— Henry Loughlin
just
Sports
Page 16
BACK ON TRACK The men’s and women’s track and field teams earned notable performances at the Tufts University Snowflake Classic, p. 13.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Waltham, Mass.
BASEBALL
CONTACT SPORT
Team struggles in home play versus New England foes ■ Unable to win in extra
innings, the baseball team lost all four games in a heart-breaking week. By MADELEINE STIX JUSTICE STAFF WRITER
With four consecutive losses against Western New England University, Worcester Polytechnic Institute and University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, the baseball team has found itself in a rut. Unable to notch a win since late February, the Judges have been beset with loss after heartbreaking loss. Relief pitcher Alex Tynan ’12 stated that, while the results are grim for the team, each member has put all of his effort into every game. “It’s tough because it has kind of been the same thing these last few weeks, but there is still no lack of effort [on the part] of our teammates,” he said. The Judges concluded their weekend with another disheartening 7-3 loss, this time to UMass Dartmouth. UMass roared right out of the gates, earning three runs in the first inning. Pitcher Brian Ing ’14 scored in the second on a hit by infielder Pat Seaward '12, who advanced to second on an error. Center fielder Kenny Destremps ’12 launched a homer in the eighth inning, but the
consistent offensive output from UMass Dartmouth left Brandeis in the dust. In the doubleheader last Saturday against Worcester Polytechnic Institute, the Judges fell just short with both games reaching extra innings. In Saturday’s first game against WPI, Brandeis pitchers nearly shut out the Engineers, but in the end, WPI emerged with a 2-1 victory. Starting pitcher Michael Swerdloff ’13 only gave up one run in eight innings and struck out eight WPI batters, the second highest total of his career. A final run from the Engineers in the ninth inning would bring the game to an unfortunate conclusion for the Judges. In the second half of the doubleheader, pitcher Pat Nicholson '11, MA '12 turned in an excellent performance, striking out six WPI batters while allowing one run in seven innings. Destremps notched two hits, including an RBI single that gave the Judges a 1-0 lead in the third inning. The teams exchanged runs in the fifth and sixth innings, but a final WPI run in the ninth inning cost the Judges the game once again. Outfielder Joe Galli ’12 stated that the team performed admirably, but fate seemed to be against the Judges in the doubleheader. “We played pretty well, but some
See BASEBALL, 13 ☛
TENNIS
JOSHUA LINTON/the Justice
EYE OF THE SLUGGER: Utility infielder Leah McWilliams '12 prepares for the bunt in a 2-1 victory over WPI on Friday, March 23.
Squad impresses in a frenetic week of action ■ The softball team won
three out of four games last week in two doubleheaders to improve to an 8-8 record. By JACOB LURIE JUSTICE STAFF WRITER
After two sets of double-headers last Monday and Tuesday, the fun did not end for the Judges. Despite the exhausting schedule, Brandeis would once again prove its mettle, winning three out of four games to improve its record to 8-8 on the season. Last Wednesday, the Judges demonstrated their ability to win consistently, amid a season characterized by many ups and downs, against Wellesley College. Brandeis swept its opponent, improving to .500 after two solid outings. Brandeis’ two aces, Caroline Miller ’12 and Casey Ducinski ’13, allowed just four hits in a combined 14
innings of play. The Judges’ bats came alive in the 3rd inning of the first game of the doubleheader against Wellesley. Centerfielder Megan DeNubila ’12 led off with a single and then quickly advanced to second on a wild pitch from Wellesley junior Lauren Goldfarb. Utility infielder Amanda Genovese ’15 hit a single and brought DeNubila home, giving her team the early 1-0 advantage. Brandeis carried this momentum into the following innings, scoring five runs to Wellesley’s one, pacing the Judges to a 6-1 victory. Genovese paced the offensive effort, going 2-3 at the plate with an RBI. “We always have a motto—when you win the first, you win the second,” she said. “It was our first time that we had not only beat them in the first game by several runs, but also had come back and beat them by a few runs in the second game.” Entering the second game, the
Judges were riding on the confidence of a big win. This was especially true for Ducinski, who threw a tremendous game against a difficult opponent. “It was easy to come off a high coming from winning the first game,” said Ducinski. “I was more jittery earlier in the season, and it was the first time in the season that I felt like I was in control. I just kept the ball low and it seemed to work.” Brandeis had terrific pitching, but the Judges also demonstrated their hitting prowess. Genovese began the offensive onslaught with a well-placed single to get on base. Outfielder Lauren Porcaro ’12 homered with the runner on base, giving Brandeis the lead over the Blue. Just as in the first half, Brandeis was in cruise control. By the bottom of the third inning, Ducinski had stifled Wellesley's bats. Meanwhile, Brandeis was look-
See SOFTBALL, 13 ☛
Women continue their magical run vs Bates ■ The women’s tennis squad
breezed past No. 30 Bates College, while the men failed to notch a victory. By BECCA ELWIN JUSTICE STAFF WRITER
Although the warm weather has left New England, the women’s tennis team is on fire. Continuing their memorable winning streak, the Judges bested No. 30 Bates College 6-3 to improve their record to 9-1. More impressively, the Judges improved their record against nationally ranked teams to 2-1, illustrating an impressive season marked by chemistry and confidence. Faith Broderick ’13 credited these attributes as primary factors for their recent success. “We’re very confident and never doubt our ability, so with this mindset, I know that we will be prepared to play and play well,” she said. She and rookie Carley Cooke ’15, ranked sixth in the Northeast in doubles play, claimed an 8-4 victory. Broderick noted the significance of doubles wins in building the momentum of the team during singles play.
“The biggest thing is to get off to a quick start,” she said. “To come out very strong in doubles and being able to be up in the score before moving into singles will really help on Saturday.” Broderick and Cooke’s victory led to another win from Dylan Schlesinger ’15 and Simone Vandroff ’15, the all-rookie duo. Cooke, in the No. 1 slot, battled back from a 1-0 deficit to emerge with a 7-5, 6-2, 6-2 win. Broderick swept her singles match at the No. 2 slot with a 6-4, 6-1 victory. Allyson Bernstein ’14 nearly did not concede a set at No. 3, winning 6-1, 6-1 in her match. Vandroff rounded out singles action with a three-set victory, after notching the super tiebreaker by an 11-9 margin. Injury, however, continued to pose problems for the men’s team in a 9-0 defeat last Saturday against 15th-ranked Bates. The Judges fell to 2-6 as they played in their second-straight match without junior captain Steven Milo ’13. Despite these recent struggles, the Judges are still 10th in the March 15 Intercollegiate Tennis Association Northeast Region rankings. Ezra Bernstein ’11 MA ’12 and Dave Yovanoff ’13 suffered an 8-2 loss to start the action. At the No. 2 doubles slot, Josh Jordan ’13 and rookie Alec Siegel ’15 suffered a de-
See TENNIS, 13 ☛
just
ARTS
April 3, 2012
BTC ‘Conquers’ Spingold p. 21
Photos: Allison Clears/the Justice and freefotouk/Flickr Creative Commons. Design: Jenny Cheng/the Justice.
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TUESDAY, april 3, 2012 ● THE JUSTICE
POP CULTURE
INSIDE ON CAMPUS
19-21
■ Crowd Control show
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■ ‘Hedda Gabler’ review
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One of Brandeis’ improvisational comedy troupes had their semester show in Cholmondeley’s Sunday night.
Free Play Theatre Cooperative put on this show about the woman some call the female Hamlet.
■ Liquid Latex
20
Liquid Latex Club’s annual event was held last Tuesday night in the Levin Ballroom.
■ ‘She Stoops’ review
21
■ ‘Charlie Brown’ review
21
Brandeis Theater Company brought this eighteenth century play to the stage.
Tympanium Euphorium’s production of You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown had its share of successes and flops.
■ SpringFest announcement
22
OFF CAMPUS
23
■ ‘Mass Effect 3’ release
23
■ ‘MDNA’ review
23
Student Events and WBRS announced the bands that will play at this year’s outdoor concert event.
JustArts reviewed the final installation in the video game trilogy. Madonna’s newest CD offers many of the same beloved qualities of her past, something that helps and hurts her.
CALENDAR
Interview
by Shelly Shore
Current sensation The Hunger Games brought in $155 million during its opening weekend, making it the third highest-grossing debut in U.S. box office history. Unfortunately, the book-to-film adaptation brought with it a level of online idiocy that no one expected. For anyone out of the loop, The Hunger Games is the first in a young adult book series about a futuristic, dystopian version of the United States in which teenagers are forced to fight to the death in a Battle Royale-esque televised competition. Now, without revealing too much, (you’re welcome) in the movie, the characters of Rue, Thresh and Cinna are all played by black actors (Amandla Stenberg, Dayo Okeniyi and Lenny Kravitz, respectively). In the books, while Cinna’s skin color is never mentioned, which opens the part to any actor, Hunger Games author Suzanne Collins pointedly describes Rue and Thresh as dark-skinned. Despite this, fans on Twitter not only didn’t understand the casting choice, but they were angered by it. A blog called Hunger Games Tweets sprung up the night of the premiere, collecting the less-than-friendly Twitter reactions of some movie-goers. User “maggie_mcd11” tweeted “why does rue have to be black not gonna lie kinda ruined the movie.” Ten points for grammar there. “Joe_langely” wrote, “EWW rue is black?? I’m not watching.” “JohnnyknoxIV” posted, “I was pumped about the Hunger Games. Until I learned a black girl was playing Rue.” Other tweeters were not so subtle, using explicitly racist terms to express their dissatisfaction. Perhaps one of the most revealing tweets was one by a user who has since deleted the comment. She wrote, “Awkward moment when Rue is some black girl and not the little blonde innocent girl you picture.” According to “Adam,” the creator of the Hunger Games Tweets blog, which was formed to draw attention to the race-driven attention the movie has gotten, “That tweet was very telling, in terms of a mentality that is prob-
Brandeis to go Medieval in April JustArts spoke with Shana Burstyn ’12, the president of Medieval Society, about the group’s plans for its upcoming May Day celebration. May Day began as an ancient pagan holiday to celebrate the coming of spring. At Brandeis, this celebration has been a long-standing tradition. This year, expect swordplay, belly dancing, costumes and traditional music. The event will take place on Saturday, April 21 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the South Campus Commons. PHOTO COURTESY OF LIONSGATE
BACKLASH: Tweeters have criticized ‘The Hunger Games’ for casting black actors in pivotal roles.
ably very widespread.” He was referring to the tweeter’s idea that a black girl can not impart the same innocence as, say, the blonde-haired, blue-eyed character of Prim, the protagonist’s little sister. These tweets reveal a concerning truth about today’s young adult audience: in a movie about teenagers literally fighting to the death in a televised arena, movie-goers are more upset about the implications of the characters’ skin colors. For those of you who haven’t gone to see The Hunger Games, it’s worth a watch. But whether you’re there for the bloody dystopia or the surprisingly poignant love story, take a moment to think about the race messages you receive from the cast—and why they might be more important than you think.
What’s happening in Arts on and off campus this semester
ON-CAMPUS EVENTS ‘Closer’
The Theater Department will be putting on this play by English playwright Patrick Marber about interwoven romantic relationships between men and women in London. This play blends the styles of tragedy, comedy and melodrama in a complex tale of love and death. Tonight, tomorrow and Thursday at 7 p.m. in the Merrick Theater. Free and open to the public.
Southeast Asia Club presents AYALA
SEAC’s charitable fundraiser and talent show, AYALA, will raise money for Phil Dev, a non-profit organization that raises money for impoverished areas of the Philippines. Performers from various Massachusetts colleges will come together in song, theater and spoken word. The theme of the night is childhood memories. Tomorrow at 7 p.m. in the Levin Ballroom. Admission is free but a donation of $3 toward Phil Dev is encouraged. Food will be available for those who donate.
Queerologues
This event is a response to the “Vagina Monologues” and other similar theatrical pieces that have taken place on campus over the course of the spring semester. The acts will be a mixture of spoken word pieces, songs, raps and skits about anything having to do with the subject of the queer experience in the community or globally. Queer Resource Center peer staff members will be available to moderate the question-and-answer session that will follow. April 17 at 7 p.m. in the Castle Commons.
Theater senior thesis festival
A series of short plays written, directed or performed by senior Theater majors will be presented over the course of the weekend. “Blind Dates” was written and will be directed by Talya Davidoff ’12. “Elegies: A Song Cycle” will be directed by Leah Carnow ’12 and musically directed by Mindy Cimini ’12. “Made For You” is a dance piece by April Kolb ’12. “Speech & Debate” stars Jordan Brown ’12 and Sara Wiesenfeld ’12. “To You Alone: A creative movement of isolation and connection” was created by and will be performed by Kayla Dinces ’12. “Blind Dates” will be performed in the Merrick Theater on April 18 at 7:30 p.m. and 19 at 10:30 p.m. “Elegies: A Song Cycle” will be performed on April 19 at 6:30 p.m. and 20 at 8:30 p.m. in the Laurie Theater. “Made For You” will performed in the Merrick Theater on April 22 at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. “Speech & Debate” will be performed in the Merrick Theater on April 19 at 8:30 p.m. and 21 at 7 p.m. “To You Alone: A creative movement of isolation and connection” will be performed in the Merrick Theater on April 21 at 3 p.m.
‘In the Next Room (or The Vibrator Play)’
Brandeis Players presents this show by
EVGENIA ELISEEVA/American Repertory Theater
INTO THE FUTURE: Oberon, a nightclub/performance space, hosts ‘Futurity’: a musical by the Lisps. The musical features a civil war soldier who invents fantastical visions of a science-fiction-based tomorrow. Sarah Ruhl about the early history of the vibrator, an instrument that was once used by doctors to treat hysteria. The play follows the stories of Sabrina Daldry and Catherine Givings, two women who are frustrated with their sexual relationships with their husbands. While each woman chooses a different path, both of them find success in the use of the machine. April 19 and 20 at 8 p.m., 21 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and 22 at 11:45 a.m. in the Carl J. Shapiro Theater.
Filmgespräch
The German Club hosts this conversation with young German filmmakers Dörte Franke and Marc Bauder in German and English. Franke is an author and documentary filmmaker who lives in Berlin and has released several short and full-length works about living in Germany during the ’80s. Bauder’s most recent film The System is nominated for the German Film Award 2012. April 20 at noon. in Shiffman 219. Refreshments will be served.
Music colloquium with Martin Marks
Senior lecturer in Music at Massachusetts Institute of Technology Martin Marks will be performing and speaking as part of the Music Department’s ongoing series. April 20 at 3:30 p.m. in Slosberg 212.
Medieval Society’s May Day
Medieval Society hosts its annual spring celebration. The time period the club will imitate ranges from the 600s to the 1600s. There will be music from the time period, jousting and the traditional May-pole dance. See the column at right for a conversation with the Society’s president, Shana Burstyn ’12. April 21 at 10 a.m. in the South Campus Commons.
OFF-CAMPUS EVENTS ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’
This August Wilson play is set in 1920s Chicago. Ma Rainey, a black songstress of much renown is in the recording studio with her backing band, recording their latest album. Tensions in the studio rise as band members fight for status and musical control. Wilson’s play evokes themes of race, art, religion and exploitation of black artists by white producers. Running now through April 8 at the Boston University Theater Mainstage, located at 264 Huntington Ave., Boston. Tickets start at $15.
‘Riverdance’
The traditional Irish stepdancing troupe, known for their rapid-fire clogging, is coming to Boston for three nights. Broadway in Boston will host Riverdance. The troupe, now in its 17th year, became popular when it first performed at the Eurovision Song Contest in Dublin. Running April 13 through April 15 at the Boston Opera House, located at 539 Washington St., Boston.
‘Futurity’: a musical by the Lisps
Indie-rock band the Lisps presents its original rock musical based on original songs, experimental music, found text and Americana. The musical covers the life of a Union soldier/inventor who creates an imaginary science-fiction-based wonderland to escape the monotony of the army. The soldier, Julian, is guided by real-life metaphysician Ada Lovelace, who could be considered the world’s first computer programmer. Running through April 15 at Oberon, located at 2 Arrow St., Cambridge.
JustArts: What types of activities does Medieval Society put on during the year? Shana Burstyn: We go to a lot of different events in the area. We go to a big one every January called Burka. It’s a big shopping event. I should probably preface this by saying that we do a lot of things with an organization called SCA, which is the Society for Creative Anachronism. So we pretty much go to their events most of the time, and they come to May Day. ... We go to a lot of different things, whatever they have going on. We do a lot of movie nights. JA: So what kinds of activities do you do at SCA events? SB: There’s usually some sort of fighting going on—either archery or heavy list or fencing or with thrown weapons. ... There’s usually vendors of some sort selling different period things. [There are] games, [there are] people just hanging out. [There are] people doing hand work, different kinds of sewing or crafting or spinning. ... It’s mainly just you get dressed up in period clothing—the period is between 600 and 1600. And basically we just hang out. There’s dancing, there’s music. I’m a crafty girl myself so I like the handwork, I always bring something to sew. JA: So are these events similar to Renaissance fairs? SB: Kind of, but it’s more accurate. It’s more focused on historical accuracy. You’re not going to see people in 17-foot hoop skirts with their boobs popping out of their corsets. You’ll see a lot more Viking apron dresses. JA: And when you mentioned the fighting, is that choreographed or is it an actual competition? SB: It’s an actual competition. It’s done with britan swords, which is a type of bamboo. They have armor and everyone has to get checked out and make sure their armor’s up to scratch and sign a waiver and all that jazz. It’s really exciting to watch. Usually all the ladies sit and watch—although there are ladies who fight. Actually, last year’s winner of the competition was a woman. But usually there’s a bunch of us sitting on the sides sewing and talking and chatting. JA: What is your involvement with Medieval Society on campus? SB: I’ve been president for about three years. My sophomore year I was co-president, or I was learning to be president. Junior year I was copresident, and this year I’m still president. JA: What is May Day and why does Medieval Society make an event around it? SB: May Day historically was kind of a Druidy, Celtic-y, Wiccan-y celebration of the coming of spring and the Spring Equinox. Traditionally there’s a May pole, there’s a guy running around all dressed in green called the Green Man who’s like the embodiment of fertility. But we kind of use it just as an excuse to have fun, have our own little fair on campus with all the same things as the events that we go to. And it’s been a Brandeis tradition for a long time. A lot of people involved in SCA are former Brandeisians and they tell me stories of that happening on campus in the ’70s. JA: So what specific events are going to take place on campus? SB: There’s going to be dancing. There will be period dance instruction. There will be fighting going on. A performance by the Belly Dance Ensemble. There’s going to be a performance by i Sebastiani, a commedia dell’Arte troupe from the area. They’re fabulous, they’re really, really funny. It’s likely that there’s going to be background music by a choir. JA: How did you first get involved with Medieval Society? SB: I grew up with going to Ren fairs every year, so I always loved that. And I’ve always been kind of a period costume geek, so I love making the clothes—I’m actually a costume design major. So at the club fair freshman year I got really excited [about Medieval Society] and I jumped in whole-hog. I’m also still friends with a lot of the people I first joined Medieval Society with, I’m actually living with one of them now. We’ve formed our own little community. JA: How is this year’s festival different from years past? SB: We’ve pretty much always been in Upper Sherman but this year we’re in Ridgewood. We also haven’t had Belly Dancing performers before. Hopefully we’ll get more people from around campus. A lot of times people will just stop by or watch from a distance. Hopefully in Ridgewood we’ll be a little more visible so people will actually come and hang out.
—Ariel Kay
THE JUSTICE
●
TUESDAY, APRIL 3, 2012
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ON CAMPUS CHILD’S PLAY
THEATER
Free Play venue eclipses ‘Gabler’ ■ Free Play’s interpretation
of the Henrik Ibsen play was well acted, but the staging made it difficult to watch. By DAMIANA aNDONOVA JUSTICE STAFF WRITER
MEPHISTOPUCK/Wikimedia Commons
‘COMMUNITY’ LEADER: Childish Gambino has released four rap albums. The most recent, ‘Camp’ dropped in November.
Childish Gambino set to headline SpringFest ■ The multi-talented rapper,
fun. and Phantogram will all perform at the concert. By REBECCA BLADY JUSTICE EDITOR
The artists slated to perform at SpringFest, Brandeis’ biggest concert of the year, have finally been revealed: Childish Gambino, fun. and Phantogram. WBRS General Manager Jackie Benowitz ’12 and Director of Concerts for Student Events Bryan Flatt ’12 announced three of the four bands in the 2012 lineup last Sunday. Rapper Childish Gambino—a.k.a. Community actor Donald Glover—will headline the concert, and indie pop bands fun. (of “We Are Young” fame) and Phantogram will open. Student Events and WBRS have not yet announced the fourth band because they are still finalizing details with the artist. In an email to justArts,
Benowitz said they will announce the fourth band as soon as possible. Student Events and WBRS present SpringFest annually. Last year, the Asian electronica outfit Far East Movement headlined, with Brandeis’ rapper Aziz and indie rock bands Dom and of Montreal opening. This year’s headliner, Childish Gambino, has diversified his entertainment career as the popular character Troy on NBC’s Community and as a writer for the NBC series 30 Rock. Now also known for his rap music, Childish Gambino comes to Brandeis after releasing his latest album, Camp, this past November. Based in New York City, fun. is an indie group best known for its hit single “We Are Young” featuring Jannelle Monáe, the most-bought single of 2012 thus far. The band is composed of lead singer Nate Ruess—formerly of The Format—and multi-instrumentalists Andrew Dost and Jack Antonoff. Fun. will come to Brandeis as part of its national tour, which began on Sat-
urday in Salt Lake City. The band has previously released two albums: Aim and Ignite in 2009 and Some Nights in 2012. Phantogram is a unique indie pop duo featuring members Sarah Barthel (vocals, keyboard) and Josh Carter (vocals, guitar). Phantogram previously came to Brandeis in 2010, when the band performed as part of the Indie Louies Film Festival. The members tend to explain their music as “street beat psyche pop.” In its review of Phantogram’s 2010 debut album, Eyelid Movies, indie music review site Pitchfork described the group as “messy, sweet and a little weird.” Benowitz expects SpringFest to be the largest event on campus this year, in terms of both attendance and the prominence of the bands. “This is quite possibly the largest lineup we’ve had in the last couple years,” Benowitz wrote. “It seems that there is just about something for everyone.” Editor’s Note: Bryan Flatt ’12 is a Justice associate editor.
COMEDY
Crowd Control wraps up for spring
■ The improv comedy troupe
paid tribute to its four graduating members with its final show of the year. By ELLY KALFUS JUSTICE CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Crowd Control, Brandeis’ youngest improvisational troupe at six years old, held its end-of-semester show last Sunday night in Cholmondeley’s. Crowd Control’s specialty is freeform improvisational long-forms, in which they perform multiple scenes inspired by a single monologue based off an audience suggestion. The troupe’s 10 members celebrated the semester by performing two sets of long-forms and two line games, one of which was a tribute to the group’s four graduating seniors: David Dawson, Paul Gale, Ethan Mermelstein and Herbie Rosen. To open the night, Naveh Halperin ’12 sang and played five original songs he devised, including one piece he improvised onstage. Halperin started the show off strong, with comedic and poignant numbers. Characteristic of Halperin’s music, the songs showcased his ability to make light of serious and even tragic topics. An example of this was a tribute to bac-
terial infections written as a love letter from the bacteria to himself. The upbeat, fast-paced rhythm contrasted with the subject matter, resulting in quirky, wonderful music. In addition, his improvised piece, which was inspired by audience suggestions, had the quality of a pre-written song, replete with rhymes and a cohesive stream-of-consciousness narrative. After Halperin’s act, Crowd Control took the stage, starting with the line game, “I make love like I” and then launching into a long-form based off of the monologue delivered by Rosen. The highlights of the show were the two-person scenes, which occurred during the group’s long-forms. “Their situations were real. Their humor was real,” commented audience member and improviser Emily Duggan ’15 after the show. While many of the scenes featured five or even six improvisers, the strongest scenes, and the ones in which the improvisers looked most comfortable onstage, involved just two people at a time. Each started with silence as the improvisers became acquainted with their imagined environment before talking with one another. Gale and Sadrach Pierre ’13 created one such scene, in which they took on the roles of a father and son eating breakfast and discussing life.
The simplicity of the scene, marked by its lack of jokes, tapped into the truth of parental relationships, and the scene’s hilarity came from its believable characters. One of Crowd Control’s greatest skills is its ability to call back lines and characters from previous scenes. “It’s like they start at the beginning, then jump to the end, and then fill it in,” audience member and improviser Zane Relethford ’13 told JustArts. “It’s fulfilling for the audience.” The majority of the scenes involved callbacks of characters, games or catchphrases. For instance, Mermelstein initiated the game of instructing his daughter, played by Lili Gecker ’13, to ask for money in increments rather than in lump sums. So, when Gecker and others bullied Dawson, they demanded he give them money in increments. This game recurred throughout the long-form, and it was invoked by different characters to good effect. After a multitude of characters, puns and one-liners, the show ended on a high note, with Crowd Control taking advantage of the fact that it was April 1 to tell audience-members that the last person to leave Chum’s would get a special mystery prize. I write this as I lie beneath the blue couch in a darkened and locked Chum’s, awaiting my prize.
Norwegian author and playwright Henrik Ibsen’s writing insists upon drama—the sort you would see in a lavish opera house. I expected Free Play Theatre Cooperative’s performance of Hedda Gabler to exude the characteristic melodrama that surrounds Ibsen’s work. In its original production, the play—a suspenseful melodrama— certainly fits this profile. The play is about an aristocratic, mentally troubled woman named Hedda Gabler and her scholarly newlywed husband George Tessman who return home from their sixmonth honeymoon. The action takes place in the living room and a nearby room in the Tessmans’ home. The plot is made up mostly of neighborly visits and local hearsay. Complications arise from the competition between Tessman and his scholarly counterpart Eilert Lovborg. As the play continues, Lovborg’s past with Hedda is revealed. Ibsen’s work demonstrates the complex state of Hedda’s psychology while exploring her discontent with the cult of domesticity, a hallmark of classic Ibsen-esque feminine characters. However, this sort of drama was absent in Free Play’s interpretation of Hedda Gabler this past weekend. The production, directed by Jessie Field ’13 and Asya Bashina ’12 and stage managed by Rachel Huvard ’14, was a subpar experimental interpretation of the play that focused on minimal use of staging, experimental location and modern costuming. While the production succeeded in entertaining the audience, the location impeded the delivery of performances. I felt that the directors’ choice to use minimal props, modern-day costuming and the Mandel Center for the Humanities Atrium as the play’s venue hindered the production. A few of the scenes took place out of view. The living room was the Mandel Atrium, but the nearby room, where key scenes took play, occurred next to the stairs, offset and away from the audience’s view, forcing the audience to turn around to see the final scene of the play. This was especially problematic as two scenes were going on at the same time: Hedda’s husband (Josh Kelly ’14) and Mrs. Elvsted (Devan Johnson ’13) work on a book in the living room, while Hedda (Lisa Feierstein ’15) plays with her gun behind the audience. It was exceptionally problematic to have one of the most critically dramatic scenes out of direct view from the audience. This took much away from the drama of the play. Costuming further hampered the interpretation of the play. A cornerstone of Hedda Gabler’s character is her aristocratic nature, as illustrated by both her manners and style of dress. The costuming for Hedda was anything but aristocratic and pretentious, and I felt the only person to be adequately costumed was the character of Berta (Emily Duggan ’15). In fact, the costuming of the play in general was very out of place, except for Aunt Julia’s (Allie Alexander ’14) hat, which was very much suited for the play. The lack of proper costuming and inadequate lighting and staging rendered the production somewhat banal. The production’s modestly sized cast, which included only seven members, performed their roles satisfactorily. Only three characters’ roles were performed aptly.
Matthew Garber’s ’12 performance of Eilert Lovborg and Alexander’s execution of Aunt Julia reflected a somewhat accurate depiction of the sort of melodrama that is characteristic of Ibsen’s characters. The delivery of their respective characters’ multiple dimensions was very clear and well performed, exuding the sort of overdramatized emotion necessary for the play’s themes. Duggan’s delivery of the maid was executed with accurate precision. Nevertheless, it was difficult to find believability in Hedda, who was portrayed as a one-dimensional character rather than the psychologically troubled damsel Ibsen created. Feierstein aptly demonstrated her character’s boredom, but fell short of portraying the magnitude of drama that surrounds this troubled character, whose fascination with glory, destiny, fire and guns ruins three lives—Lovborg’s manuscript, herself and Lovborg. Oddly enough, Mr. Lovborg, a man who was thought to be an alcoholic, produces a fantastic manuscript, much to Hedda’s husband’s dismay. He is afraid that because of Lovborg’s success he will not get the promotion for which both he and Lovborg are in competition. After the lengthy honeymoon, Tessman is very troubled, especially when Lovborg offers to read his manuscript at a party. At this party, Lovborg loses the manuscript, which he calls his child, and Tessman luckily finds it on the street. Hesitant to return it, he gives the manuscript to Hedda, who burns it, claiming “I shall burn this … child.” It was on this matter, I was happily surprised to find, however, that the play accurately and validly explored the hallmark theme of creation and fertility and its relationship to literature. This alignment with childbearing and the production of literature is very clear in the interpretation of the play. Parallels can be drawn between the Tessmans’ inability to produce literature and the hesitancy to discuss childbearing and fertility, when Aunt Julia hints to “news” from the honeymoon. A more concrete example is Lovborg’s ability to, with the help of Elvsted, produce a manuscript overnight, calling it “their child.” When Lovborg later loses the only copy of the manuscript, he panics. When speaking with Hedda, he employs an analogy comparing the creation of literature to the life of a child: “But to kill his child, that is not the worst thing a father can do to it. … That a man—in the small hours of the morning came home to his child’s mother after a night of riot and debauchery, and say ‘… I have lost the child—utterly lost it. The devil knows into what hands it may have fallen.’” It was with this scene that I felt both Hedda Gabler’s character and that of Lovborg truly shine through, and I found this exceptional scene to be such that it encompasses the true meaning of Ibsen’s work. The scene captivated the sort of drama expected from Ibsen’s plays, while exploring issues deeply rooted in female discontent with the cult of domesticity and male misery with their financial worth. Free Play’s interpretation was an interesting experimental performance that entertained its audience, but the directors’ choice of venue, staging and costuming hampered the performance overall. The cast gave an adequate performance—but there is something wrong when the maid’s role was most believable of all the characters. Thus, this theatrical experience was a stark disappointment precisely because of the staging and venue and less than outstanding performances.
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TUESDAY, april 3, 2012
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THE JUSTICE
Liquid Latex
embodies
artists’ visions
The nearly-nude show featured beautiful artwork and dance By nASHRAH RAHMAN JUSTICE EDITOR
Not many students passed up the opportunity to see their friends perform in only latex paint and thongs at the annual Liquid Latex show last Tuesday. Covered by layers of extravagant body art, performers expertly danced the night away in a packed Levin Ballroom that rang with cheers and catcalls from friends. This year’s show, titled “Art Imitating Life” was coordinated by Alex Hulse ’12 and Shayna Medley ’12 and offered unique and often humorous glimpses into the modern human experience. In the opening piece, Diana Flatto ’12, Allie Joseph ’12 and Rachel Klein’s ’12 “If You See Something, Say Something,” the two lead performers, Jordana Yahr ’14 and Joe Babeu ’15, captured the feeling of bewilderment at encountering the unexpected—in this case, zombies— on the subway. The piece tactfully used Michael Jackson’s popular song “Thriller” to accentuate the zombie theme. Another clever piece by alumna Carly Greenberg ’11 was based on “Fruit Ninja,” a wellknown iPhone app. Her models’ energetic enactment of the game easily earned the loudest cheers from the audience, especially when they burst into moves in sync with LMFAO’s catchy song “I’m Sexy and I Know It.” Arguably, the most serious act was “Symphony of Brotherhood,” designed by Asher Krell ’13, Robyn Spector ’13 and choreographed by Melanie Shapiro ’12. With their bodies adorned by art of clashing colors and mismatched patterns, models linked hands in solidarity under dynamic lighting to show how people can come together despite their differences. Combined with segments of Martin Luther King Jr.’s speeches and Israeli violinist Miri Ben-Ari’s inspiring music, this piece was very moving. Two acts that particularly stood out in terms of music and narrative were Dina Nathanson’s ’12 “A Tale of Love and Three Monsters” and Hulse and Monisha Rajinikanth’s ’12 “Masked Desires.”
Nathanson choreographed a love story of epic proportions, featuring not only the usual pair of lovers but also a treacherous snake and tiger that the hero had to fight for the heroine. The music choice, “Tunak Tunak Tun,” a famous Punjabi pop song by Daler Mehndi, was upbeat and certainly unorthodox, and the dancers did a great job of dancing energetically to it while still clearly enacting the complex plot. “Masked Desire” also had an interesting plotline about a girl who encounters several individuals in a mysterious place controlled by a character behind a Guy Fawkes mask. The choreography was striking, with the Guy Fawkes performer often creepily standing to one side of the stage and dancing as if he was orchestrating the happenings of the act. Lighthearted pieces included Medley’s “British Invasion,” which took on British musical pop culture; Nora Mitnick ’12, Mark Borreliz ’14 and Zoe Shiovitz’s ’13 “Go the Distance,” which stirred audience nostalgia as models donned Disney-inspired body art; Paul Belenky ’14, Sinan Isim ’14 and Sara Lodgen’s ’14 “L’enfant Perdu” about a boy who finds the love of his life in a circus; and Ariel Goldenthal’s ’12 “Starcrossed,” an reenactment of Romeo and Juliet set to popular music. Shikchha Srivastava ’12 designed one of the more original acts, titled “Runway: From Books to Bodies,” in which each of the performers modeled iconic novel covers from The Great Gatsby to Life of Pi. Despite all of the creative choreography, at the end of the day, Liquid Latex is most remembered for the body art. This year, with the minimal use of props, the artwork really took center stage, and the choreographers’ effectively devised moves stood to maximize the beautiful designs. From skeletons to colorful country maps, each piece of body art held its own. While many students came to see friends perform in nearnudity, what they saw instead was their friends covered with layers of artistic talent. Editor’s Note: Asher Krell ’13 and Robyn Spector ’13 are Justice associate editors.
THE JUSTICE
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TUESDAY, april 3, 2012
21
‘PEANUTS’ GALLERY
JOSH HOROWITZ/the Justice
CURTAIN UP: (Left to right) Steinberg ’15, Davis ’14, Rosen ’12, Madison ’15, Squier ’14, Miller ’13 and Malik ’15 opened Tympanium Euphorium’s show with the song, “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown.”
Tymp’s physicality trumps its musicality ■ ‘Charlie Brown’ was funny
in its depiction of the classic Schulz characters, but it also had its share of flaws. By EMILY SALLOWAY JUSTICE EDITOR
You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown is a musical of punch lines: Each song and line of dialogue is framed as a joke. And, like the average comedy routine, Tympanium Euphorium’s production of the show last weekend had its share of hilarity—and its share of misfires. The play consists of a series of sketches in which Charlie Brown, the self-deprecating but lovable protagonist of Charles Schulz’s famous comic strip, Peanuts, and his friends go about their daily lives as schoolchildren. The cast of characters face challenges like Valentine’s Day, the deadline for a book report and a baseball game with wit and charm. Their struggles are reminiscent of the challenges everyone faces while growing up with the characteristic dash of humor that gained Schulz his multitude of fans.
At the opening night performance, the first number of Tymp’s production, also titled “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown,” was a bit shaky. The cast’s vocals didn’t blend very well, and the song, which is supposed to set the tone for an energetic and goofy show, ended up being lackluster. However, when the song drew to a close and the curtain revealed the quirky set designed by Jessica Rassp ’13 and built by Marc Alsina ’13, things started to look up. The backdrop had the same cartoony feel as Schulz’s original comic with a color scheme reminiscent of a favorite Charlie Brown TV special. Designed to resemble comic strip panels and bearing Schulz’s signature in the bottom corner, the scenery definitely added the “fun, endearing” aspect of the show that director Jeremy Weinberg ’12 wrote about in the playbill. Another behind-the-scenes aspect of the show that was hugely successful was the band. Made up of Mindy Cimini ’12 on piano, Berklee College of Music alumnus Arthur Felluca on reed instruments, Yoni Battat ’13 on strings, Berklee student Theo Brierly on bass, Justin Lambert ’12 on drums and directed by Cimini and
Alexandra Patch ’14, the orchestra maintained an up-tempo positive influence throughout the show, never missing a beat. Charlie Madison ’15 played Charlie Brown and, while he wasn’t exactly like the original comic strip character, he came closer and closer to achieving this goal with each passing scene. Madison hit his stride toward the end of the first act with, “The Doctor Is In,” during which Charlie Brown asks his cranky friend Lucy (Rebecca Miller ’13) for advice on how to be a better version of himself. Madison sang beautifully and expressed himself in truely worrywart fashion, especially during the climactic parts of the song. Miller shone in this number as well, the music perfectly suiting her alto range. While she struggled to reach the high notes in some of the other songs, her overall performance was impressive. She recognized the key attributes of Lucy—self-absorbed, condescending and pouty—and portrayed them with apparent ease. However, Miller’s complete dedication to the angry side of Lucy did make it challenging to later sympathize with her when Lucy realizes how mean she has been to her friends
and tries to change. Lucy’s crush, the Beethoven-loving Schroeder, was played by the energetic Karan Malik ’15. While it was hard to hear his voice over the others’, Malik’s solo in the joyful “Beethoven Day” showed off his powerful vocal instrument and pizzazz. Danny Steinberg ’15 played Lucy’s brother and Charlie Brown’s best friend, Linus. Steinberg’s use of his hands in explaining difficult scientific concepts successfully imitated the gestures of the original know-itall character. While he grappled with the musicality of “My Blanket and Me,” he made up for it with his understanding of Linus’ body language. The character’s love for his blanket is one of his defining traits, and Steinberg also nailed this personality quirk in the song. Charlie Brown’s younger sister, Sally, played by the angel-voiced Kate Davis ’14, stole the show. Throughout the entire show, Davis never missed a note, both literally and figuratively. She took a stereotype of a small child and added a dose of realism, ending up with a side-splitting interpretation of the headstrong and excitable Sally. And, of course, there were the sig-
nature characters of Snoopy (Levi Squier ’14) and Woodstock (Herbie Rosen ’12). First of all, there is something just plain pleasing about seeing the Student Union president dressed in a yellow onesie, flitting about the stage. Although he didn’t say a word during the entire show, Rosen’s presence was noticed and enjoyed by all. Squier’s Snoopy embodied the right blend of human and dog, befitting Schulz’s most beloved character. While his enactment of the classic World War I flying ace searching for the Red Baron was bland, his dance moves in “Suppertime” showed his complete immersion into his character and closed the narrative with a huge laugh. The final number, “Happiness,” was a great improvement from the opener and it was clear that the cast had gained confidence and chemistry as the show progressed. You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown was an excellent chance for those who loved Schulz’s cartoon to indulge in a few hours of nostalgia, but perhaps not as great of an experience for fans of past productions of the play who were looking forward to certain comedic moments and musical numbers.
theater
BTC’s ‘Stoops to Conquer’ ruled the weekend ■ The Brandeis Theater
Company’s performance of the 18th-century play brought humor to historic fiction. By ALEX DESILVA JUSTICE STAFF WRITER
For about as long as there’s been aristocracy in Britain, there have been authors and playwrights who’ve made their name poking fun at it. The British class system, with its tangle of lords, dukes and squires, as well as its web of manners and decorum, has found itself a ripe target for parody from authors like Austen, Wilde and Wodehouse to more modern fare like Keeping up Appearances. The popularity of these works in Britain is understandable enough, but one of the strangest things about this genre is just how popular it’s become all over the world. From Pride and Prejudice to The Importance of Being Earnest, non-Britons can’t seem to get enough of this uniquely English art form. With this in mind, the Brandeis Theater Company’s decision to put on William Golding’s 1773 play She Stoops to Conquer this past weekend makes a lot of sense. After two and a half centuries, Golding’s lampooning of Georgian England’s aristocracy still holds up. Though the society that Golding satirizes is long gone, the play’s underlying targets—cliquishness, fickleness and pretense—are
still very much with us today. She Stoops to Conquer is set in an unnamed part of rural England, far from London and its fashionable upper class. It’s here that the wealthy Hardcastle family makes their home, headed by the no-nonsense, old-fashioned Mr. Hardcastle (Mark Corkins), a man who wants nothing more than to sit at home and relive the past, much to the dismay of Mrs. Hardcastle (Laura Jo Trexler, Theater Arts Master’s student), a scheming social climber whose life revolves around whatever trends and gossip happen to be popular among the London elite. Also in the house is Mr. Hardcastle’s daughter, Kate (Theater Arts Master’s student Sarah Elizabeth Bedard), an unpretentious, quickwitted young woman who’s recently come of marrying age. Mr. Hardcastle has arranged for her to meet Marlow (Theater Arts Master’s student Sam Gillam), son of a wealthy Londoner. Around upper class women like Kate, Marlow is painfully shy, much to her disappointment. But Kate soon gets wind that Marlow is reputed to be a consummate Lothario among London’s lower class women. She then hatches a plan to pass herself off as a maid. Meanwhile, Mrs. Hardcastle has arranged for her son, the wild and boorish Tony Lumpkin (Theater Arts Master’s student Jonathan Young), to marry her niece, Constance Neville (Theater Arts Master’s student Nicole Dalton), though neither wants
ALLISON CLEARS/the Justice
HISTORIC HOME: Members of the cast of ‘Stoops to Conquer’ discuss family matters. anything to do with the other. Constance has been courting Marlow’s friend Hastings (Theater Arts Master’s student Eddie Shields) behind Mrs. Hardcastle’s back, while Tony would be content to spend his days down at the alehouse. Said alehouse is actually where the plot gets rolling. Marlow and Hastings, on their way to Hardcastle’s manor, stop by the tavern after realizing that they’re lost. Tony, seeing the opportunity for some fun, points them in the direction of the Hardcastle estate, telling them that it’s an inn. With Hardcastle try-
ing to entertain his guests, Marlow and Hastings mistaking their hosts for inn staff, and Kate passing herself off as a servant in her attempt to get Marlow to come out of his shell, the accepted manners of the day go out the window, as Tony’s prank exposes the hypocrisy at the heart of aristocratic etiquette. Tony himself is really the character that the rest of the play turns around. Unlike everyone else, he has no patience for the false niceties that come with his social position. If it weren’t for his mother’s attempts to get him
to marry Constance, he’d happily spend all his time at the alehouse, and when denied that, he amuses himself by playing with the rigid social mores of his family, laughing with the audience at just how frivolous his family truly is. He’s a pretty demanding role, and Young plays the role well, making for a boisterous and likeable Tony. Actually, the entire cast performs admirably. Trexler’s Mrs. Hardcastle spends most of the play enamored with the latest fashions from London, her dreams of wealth or the nonexistent accomplishments of her layabout son. Mr. Hardcastle is played well by veteran actor Corkins, who gets entertainingly more and more exasperated as Marlow’s visit goes on. On that note, Gilliam’s portrayal of Marlow also deserves special mention. His behavior towards “innkeeper” Hardcastle and “chambermaid” Kate are great bits of upper class buffoonery, and the scenes with his shy persona are rife with physical comedy; his discovery that Hardcastle was not, in fact, an innkeeper sends him into a conniption as his face contorts into a look of pure horror. Everyone involved in She Stoops to Conquer was firing on all cylinders that night, from Bedard and Dalton to Young and Shields. Everything about the play, from the set design to the acting, was perfect. The BTC breathed new life last weekend into a centuries-old play, and for that, everyone involved should be proud.
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THE JUSTICE
OFF CAMPUS
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TUESDAY, APRIL 3, 2012
23
DIGITAL WORLD
‘Mass Effect’ game trilogy concludes Dan
WILLEY
CRITICAL HIT
A little over four years ago, BioWare—the studio responsible for RPG hits such as Baldur’s Gate, Star Wars: The Knights of the Old Republic and Dragon Age—embarked on its most ambitious project yet with the release of the first game in the Mass Effect trilogy. Each decision that the player makes during their time within the sci-fi epic will have consequences spanning throughout all three games, as saved data from each iteration in the series can be imported into the next. Because of this, the results of even minor choices can be felt, as the player shapes the game world and creates his or her own unique narrative. No series prior or since has attempted a narrative feat quite on this scale. This one-of-a-kind endeavor finally came to a close with the release of Mass Effect 3 on Xbox 360, Playstation 3 and PC in March.
Once again, players take on the role of either a male or female Commander Shepard, depending on the player’s choice, as he or she must attempt to save the galaxy from the Reapers, a race of massive, synthetic behemoths guided by a central artificial intelligence bent on purging the galaxy of all life. The player is tasked with uniting the various races of the galaxy in order to combat the imminent Reaper threat while also assembling a small crew of the galaxy’s best to aid him or her on the mission. Every decision made throughout the game carries tremendous weight; with the fate of the galaxy on the line, players can truly feel the desperation of the world’s inhabitants, and the third game takes on a much darker tone than the rest of the series. This is where the set story ends, however, since almost everything that happens in Mass Effect 3 is different for each player. It’s hard to even imagine all of the different scenarios that players can experience depending on the choices they have made in previous games, especially if certain characters didn’t survive the first two iterations. During my time with Mass Effect 3, I truly felt as though I had crafted
the world I was playing in. I loved meeting characters from the previous games and seeing just how my actions had played a role in this universe. The absolutely fantastic writing and voice work do a great deal to further immerse the player in this narrative. Very rarely have I played a game where I cared this much about the people and places in its world. The plot, dialogue sequences and sense of environment are unrivaled in video games today. Unfortunately, as in previous entries to the series, combat takes a bit of a back seat. The Mass Effect series plays as a third-person-shooter-RPG hybrid, but as it has progressed, shooting mechanics have come to occupy a more central role. These mechanics are unquestionably improved from Mass Effect 2; the weapons have a greater sense of weight and movement across the battlefield from cover to cover is more fluid. Nonetheless, the game’s combat doesn’t quite compete with some of the best games in the genre, such as Gears of War or Red Dead Redemption. Beyond the core mechanics, the design of levels in side missions isn’t nearly as well thought out as it is in the primary campaign. This occasionally highlights some of the
weaknesses in the overall gameplay and leads to some incredibly frustrating segments. A few battles near the end of the game were particularly difficult due to issues with the game’s controls, and had I not been so invested in the story, I might have put the game down for a while. Luckily, the narrative more than makes up for the gameplay’s shortcomings, and players will hang in to see the conclusion to this massive adventure. This has been the subject of some controversy among fans who have voiced their dissatisfaction across the Internet via Twitter, Reddit and several popular gaming websites. One group of fans organized a campaign demanding a new ending and donated over $80,000 to the charity Child’s Play—an organization that seeks to “improve the lives of children in hospitals … through the kindness and generosity of the videogame industry and the power of play,” according to its website—to bring attention to their protest. Without spoiling the ending, the game’s final scenes are remarkably similar to each other, regardless of the choices the player has made throughout the series. This has angered some gamers who feel that they have been misled by the
central premise that all choices have an impact that spans the trilogy and that every gamer’s experience will be unique. Others simply feel that the game’s conclusion doesn’t offer enough closure. While I’m sympathetic to these complaints and agree that more could have been done with the game’s final scenes, I personally think that Mass Effect 3, when viewed in its entirety as the conclusion to the series, provides more than enough closure. Furthermore, I don’t believe that the results of every decision need to be included in this final scene. The game’s ending leaves something to the imagination, and players will have to be content in knowing that their decisions mattered without a final visual representation. Complaints about the ending and shooting mechanics aside, Mass Effect 3 tells a brilliant story and is a masterpiece of a game that no gamer should miss. Playing all three games in the series with the same character is an unparalleled experience in video games today, and this series will without a doubt go down as one of the greatest from this generation of gaming despite its minor flaws. I give Mass Effect 3 a 9.5/10.
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY NAN PANG/The Justice. PHOTOS COURTESY OF BIOWARE.
music
Redundancy of Madonna’s album disappoints ■ ‘MDNA’ features upbeat
singles, but the problem is they sound very similar to Madonna’s other past hits. By rachel gordon JUSTICE STAFF WRITER
MDMA is a psychoactive synthetic drug commonly associated with raves and electronic music festivals. Not to be confused with MDNA, Madonna’s 12th studio album released March 23, 2012 by Interscope Records. The Queen of Pop has returned to the Auto-Tuned game with a new set of soft-core electronic, bubble-gum singles. At age 53, practically ancient in Hollywood years, the musical veteran proves that she still has a few good tracks up her sleeve, along with her toned, ghastly arms. The ’80s pop-heavy first-released single, “Give Me All Your Luvin’,” features fellow bad girls Nicki Minaj and M.I.A., and peaked at number
10 on the Billboard Hot 100 this past February. The funky, dubstep-esque song has extended Madonna’s reputation as the artist with the most topten singles in Billboard’s history. Equally as catchy is the second track, also featuring Minaj, “I Don’t Give A.” This simmering dance jam confirms my belief that Minaj works better when collaborating than on her own. (Think Drake’s single “Make Me Proud.” Her voice works better in small doses.) The last track is a “Party Rock” remix of “Give Me All Your Luvin’” with LMFAO and Minaj. Unfortunately, the song sounds the same as every other LMFAO remix, leaving little excitement and freshness. Released as the second single, “Girl Gone Wild” features house and electro content and draws on the rhythmic four-on-the-floor technique. The feel-good “girls’ night out” tune is so good, it feels like something I’ve heard before. Maybe that’s because it’s incredibly similar to Madonna’s previous songs, “Music,” “Hung Up” and “Sorry.” Disappointment aside,
the fluffy dance beat is difficult to get out of your head, even if it is handselected from a recycle bin of repurposed content. “Masterpiece” is a mid-tempo popballad with tingly lyrics comparable to her ultra-brilliant 1998 single “Ray of Light.” Composed by Madonna, Julie Frost and Jimmy Harry, and produced by Madonna and William Orbit, “Masterpiece” won a Golden Globe for Best Original Song this past January. It’s a nice distinction (and one of the few) from the handful of slightly repetitive, recycled songs that make up the rest of the album. Notably, she worked with producer Benny Benassi, among others, on this album, but it’s disappointing that popular Italian DJ and record producer of tech house music Bennassi couldn’t do more for it. MDNA reminds me of Britney’s 2007 Blackout—a bunch of similarly AutoTuned songs that don’t demonstrate much range but will come on from time to time in a taxi or bar. However, like Blackout, MDNA also has some head-thumping, club-fun beats
that’ll be sure to momentarily get stuck in your head. Madonna is talented. That’s a difficult statement to challenge. First globally acknowledged after her wildly successful second studio album Like a Virgin in 1984, she went on to win 220 awards (including seven Grammys, two Golden Globes and the MTV Artist of the Decade Award) and received over 400 different nominations. The MTV award, which recognized her artistic achievements in the ’80s, spurred Michael Jackson to ask, “Did she outsell Thriller?” Madonna has been referred to as one of the greatest figures in music and one of the most influential women in history—if only she had left fans with 2005’s Confessions on a Dance Floor— and nothing more. On one hand, MDNA feels like an ill-fated attempt to squeeze out one more album at age 53 to prove she’s still got it. On the other, it feels like an overly processed disco-fied divorce record. Madonna contributed to writing and producing every song on the album, which is admirable
considering how “singer-songwriter” seems to have become a term of the past in pop music. One track I just can’t seem to figure out is “B-Day Song” featuring M.I.A. It sounds more like a monotone Barney ballad being sung at a two-year-old’s birthday party than a Grammy-winner’s single from her latest album. The song has bland, bizarre lyrics: “I want a diamond. Don't give me a fake/ I'll let you lick the frosting off my cake/ Gimme a spanking, start the day off right (woowee)/ 'Cause it's my birthday, you'll be singing my song tonight.” Perhaps it’s not the best idea to call attention to your b-day, Madonna, unless you’re excited to turn 54. Quite possibly the album was actually meant to be titled MDMA, as many of the songs sound slightly drug infused. “B-day” celebrations and MDMA infused recording sessions aside, it’s lyrics like these that cause me to ask if it’s time for the aging pop queen to hang up the white gloves and pass off the Kabbalah bracelets to Lady Gaga once and for all.
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TUESday, APRIL 3, 2012 ● THE JUSTICE
TOP of the
ARTS ON VIEW
TRIVIA TIME
CHARTS
1. Who once said, “He who laughs last has not yet heard the bad news”? 2. What is the basic unit of currency in India? 3. What does the Latin term gratis mean? 4. A year must be divisible by what number to be a leap year? 5. Who was the first black female U.S. senator? 6. Who was the first European explorer to see the eastern part of the Pacific Ocean (1513), after crossing the Isthmus of Panama? 7. What were the common people of ancient Rome called? 8. What is the capital of Lithuania? 9. What is the name of the historical period in which dinosaurs lived? 10. What was Pygmalion’s profession?
ANSWERS 1. Bertolt Brecht 2. The rupee 3. Without payment 4. Four 5. Carol Moseley Braun 6. Vasco Nuñez de Balboa 7. Plebeians 8. Vilnius 9. Jurassic 10. Sculptor
STRANGE BUT TRUE oIt was Scottish author and historian Thomas Carlyle who made the following sage observation: “The greatest of faults is to be conscious of none.” oIf you’re planning to travel to Washington state with nefarious plans, here’s an interesting law to keep in mind: Any motorist with criminal intent is required to stop before entering a town and inform the chief of police of his or her presence. Are you more afraid of lightning or sharks? If you look at the numbers, it makes more sense to fear lightning; more than three times as many people die from lightning strikes than from shark attacks each year. The acids in your digestive system are so corrosive that your stomach must produce an entirely new lining every three days. As the Black Plague was sweeping Europe during the Middle Ages, some people, for reasons surpassing understanding, believed that plague victims could cure themselves by smelling human waste. It was in 1893 that the zipper was invented, and it was originally intended to be used in shoes. If you’re familiar with the Disney film Cinderella, you might be surprised to learn some details about the Grimm brothers’ version of the folktale. In their story, Cinderella’s wicked stepsisters are so desperate to marry the prince that they mutilate their feet in order to try to make them fit in the slipper (which, in the Grimm version, is made of gold, not glass). Also, at the wedding of Cinderella and her prince, the stepsisters’ eyes are plucked out by pigeons.
Top 10s for the week ending April 1 BOX OFFICE
1. The Hunger Games 2. Wrath of the Titans 3. Mirror Mirror 4. 21 Jump Street 5. Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax 6. John Carter 7. Salmon Fishing in the Yemen 8. Act of Valor 9. A Thousand Words 10. Journey 2: The Mysterious Island
NYT BESTSELLERS
Fiction 1. Stay Close — Harlan Coben 2. Lone Wolf — Jodi Picoult 3. Force of Nature — C. J. Box 4. Kill Shot — Vince Flynn 5. The Thief — Clive Cussler and Justin Scott ANNA YATSKAR/The Justice
SLICE OF LIFE: Justice Photographer Anna Yatskar ’14 was inspired by the iPhone app “Fruit Ninja” and took this picture in order to reenact the game using nectarines, apples and lemons.
ACROSS 1. Out of — (ailing) 6. Parallelogram type 11. Illegible handwriting 12. Arm of the Mediterranean 14. Body image 15. Bewitch, in a way 16. Raw rock 17. Vigorous 19. Copper head 20. SI and GQ, e.g. 22. Actor Holbrook 23. Test tube 24. Diminish 26. Echoes 28. Freddy’s street 30. Can makeup 31. Followed relentlessly 35. Amble 39. Scoop holder 40. Greek cross 42. Artist Joan 43. Is pluralized 44. Kingdom subdivisions 46. Weep 47. Panda chow 49. Nutty 51. Protect 52. Old numbers? 53. Board meeting topic 54. Reddish horses DOWN 1. Ornamental beetle 2. Old El Paso competitor 3. Scoundrel 4. “— company, ...” 5. Laziness 6. Mini-stream 7. Derisive laugh 8. Lennon’s lady 9. In the sky 10. Tropical tree 11. Plant pore 13. Christmas refrains 18. Tholes hold it 21. Commemorative pillar 23. Poison 25. Wapiti 27. Energy 29. Ways
CROSSWORD
iTUNES
1. fun. feat. Janelle Monáe — “We are Young” 2. Justin Bieber — “Boyfriend” 3. Gotye feat. Kimbra —“Somebody That I Used to Know” 4. One Direction — “What Makes You Beautiful” 5. Flo Rida feat. Sia — “Wild Ones” 6. Carly Rae Jepson — “Call Me Maybe” 7. The Wanted — “Glad You Came” 8. Train — “Drive By” 9. Kelly Clarkson — “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” 10. Katy Perry — “Part of Me”
BILLBOARD
1. Various Artists — The Hunger Games: Songs from District 12 and Beyond 2. Adele — 21 3. The Shins — Port of Morrow 4. One Direction — Up All Night 5. Odd Future — The OF Tape Vol. 2
31. Wound covers 32. Synagogue scrolls 33. Hemoglobin deficiency 34. Rotation duration 36. Nauseate 37. Glitches 38. Vacillates 41. Stomach woe 44. Flag holder 45. Car 48. — canto 50. Half a dance
Top of the Charts information provided by Fandango, the New York Times, Billboard. com and Apple.com.
STAFF PLAYLIST
“Ready, Set, Listen” By HENRY LOUGHLIN
Solution to last week’s crossword
King Crossword Copyright 2012 King Features Synd, Inc.
SUDOKU INSTRUCTIONS: Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each small 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.
Thought for the Day: “The tax which will be paid for education is not more than the thousandth part of what will be paid to kings, priests and nobles who will rise up among us if we leave the people to ignorance.” — Thomas Jefferson
Nonfiction 1. Imagine: How Creativity Works — Jonah Lehrer 2. The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business — Charles Duhigg 3. American Sniper: The Autobiography of the Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. Military History — Chris Kyle with Scott McEwen and Jim DeFelice 4. Killing Lincoln — Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard 5. Steve Jobs — Walter Isaacson
Solution to last week’s sudoku
Sudoku Copyright 2012 King Features Synd, Inc.
Justice STAFF WRITER
As a competitive runner, I need music that can both get me pumped and ground my focus before a race. While these might not be the most eclectic choices, they ensure that I’m ready when I toe the line. THE LIST 1.o“Every Teardrop is a Waterfall (Swedish House Mafia Mix)” — Coldplay 2. “All These Things That I’ve Done” — The Killers 3. “Welcome to Atlanta”— Jermaine Dupri and Ludacris 4. “King of the Dancehall” — Beenie Man 5.o“Calabria” — Enur 6. “Till I Collapse” — Eminem 7. “On the Floor” — Jennifer Lopez feat. Pitbull 8.o“Give Me Everything (Sex Ray Vision Remix)” — Pitbull feat. NeYo 9. “Eye of the Tiger” — Survivor 10. “Where Them Girls At” – David Guetta feat. Nicki Minaj