I n d e p e n d e nt
Issue no.
S t u d e nt
V o ic e
o f
B o is e
S tat e
S inc e
1933
54
April
2012
Volume 24
w w w.arbiteronline.com
Boise, Idaho
Top Stories
Waitlist woes
First issue free
Ultrasound bill shot down Kimberley O’Bryan Senior Journalist
Registration dates should be determined by class standing only.
page
7
Gymnastics
No. 15 ranked team heads to NCAA Championships.
page
05
8
The Idaho ultrasound mandate, Senate Bill (SB) 1387 was shot down despite a pro-life rally of 150 people at the Capitol attempting to salvage it. SB 1387, which passed the Idaho Senate 23-12 on March 19, stated women seeking an abortion, regardless of their or their doctor’s wishes, must first obtain an ultrasound. “It was a terrible policy for women because politicians should not be making decisions that are best left up to a woman and her doctor,” said Sara Kiesler, spokeswoman for Planned Parenthood Votes Northwest in an email to The Arbiter. After the win in the Senate, it looked as if this bill would pass in the House, leaving it on Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter’s desk. But a March 21 closed-door caucus ended in the cancellation of Thursday morning’s hearing on the bill. “Basically, I’m listening to constituents and they aren’t just Democrats,” Rep. Lynn Luker (R-15A) of Boise
Kony 2012
mct campus
The bill would have required women seeking an abortion to get an ultrasound. said. The bill was finally killed on Tuesday. House State Affairs Committee Chairman Tom Loertscher (R) said the bill had legal issues and advised its advocates to try again next year. “What we’re seeing is that the women in our community, in our state, are standing up and saying ‘This bill is not promoting equal rights,’ ” said Jess Caldwell-
O’Keefe of the Boise State Women’s Center. In a press release, Right to Life of Idaho President Jason Herring said they would tackle the bill again next year because it “protects a woman’s right to view and a child’s right to be seen.” Some students agree with the pro-life arguments. Danielle Lyon, a third year theater performance major, acknowledges the pro-life point.
“If women are informed of the possible risks abortion may have on their body, the details of the procedure performed, and receive a thorough medical exam to ensure health, they are better equipped to make the safest decision,” Lyon said. Despite a push for women’s safety, SB 1387 gave no pass on the ultrasound to women who had been the victims of rape or incest or needed an abortion for a
medical emergency. In fact, Chuck Winder, who sponsored the bill said, “I would hope that when a woman goes in to a physician with a rape issue, that physician will indeed ask her about perhaps her marriage, was this pregnancy caused by normal relations in a marriage or was it truly caused by a rape,” according to the Huffington Post. Winder was criticized heavily for this allusion to women possibly lying about rape in order to receive an abortion. He later apologized for his statement. Abortions are typically done in the very early stages of pregnancy, so if this bill had passed, women would have had to undergo a transvaginal ultrasound. According to Medline Plus, for a woman to undergo this procedure she would lie on her back with her feet in stirrups while the health care provider moved a probe inside her vagina. “SB 1387 had nothing to do with women’s health and everything to do with shaming and demeaning women who seek safe and legal medical services,” Kiesler said.
2012 Legislature adjourns after 81 days Christina Marfice Journalist
What do you think of the controversial campaign?
page
3
Weather
The Idaho Legislature adjourned Thursday evening after a 2012 session that lasted 81 days. “The Legislature got it right this year,” Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter said. “I think it was a great session.” In a press conference held in his office Friday morning, Otter highlighted some of the key
successes from the 2012 session, including three bills passed on Thursday to address the appropriation of more than $100 million in surplus money. A total of $35 million went to backfilling teachers’ salaries after several years of cuts to education funding. That money will also fully fund last year’s “Students Come First” education reform. Another $35 million will be used for tax credits, lowering the
individual and corporate income tax rates to 7.4 percent and making Idaho more attractive to outof-state businesses, according to the governor. “It sends a good psychological signal that we understand what businesses have to have in order to operate in Idaho,” Otter said. “We hope new businesses will take a look at that and say Idaho is the place to go.” The remaining $35 million will
be placed in Idaho’s “rainy-day” savings accounts, replacing some of the money that was drained from those accounts during the last several years’ economic recession. The Legislature made some other moves this session that had people talking. In case you missed anything, here’s the good, the bad and the just plain ugly of the 2012 session.
Today
idaho
20%
chance of precipitation
Tomorrow
Partly Cloudy
51º high
20%
chance of precipitation
Saturday
Mostly Sunny
60º high
0%
chance of precipitation
What’s Inside News Briefs
page
Local
page
Opinion
page
Sports
page
The Arbiter
2 3 7 8
suicide hotline
cigarette tax anti-
Independent Ethics: The Legislature missed an oppor- bullying tunity to create an independent committee for investigating ethics complaints. The idea failed. Republican lawmakers said this will protect Legislators in cases of frivolous complaints; however, many are concerned that this undermines the public’s right to know when complaints arise. Cigarette Tax: A cigarette tax increase of $1.25 per pack was meant to discourage new and current smokers and offset taxpayer-funded Medicaid costs. However, the House Revenue and Taxation Committee voted to kill the proposal before it was even drafted. Rep. Lenore Barrett, R-Challis said: “This is the most blatant case of social engineering I have ever seen.” Internet Sales Tax: A bill designed to collect Idaho’s 6 percent sales tax on purchases made online failed in a tied vote. Idahoans are already required to report and pay sales tax to the state when making online purchases, but few do. The bill would have streamlined the process of collecting the sales tax. Wind Moratorium: A bill forcing a two-year break in the issuing of permits to construct wind farms failed in the House. Lawmakers in favor wanted two years to examine wind energy’s overall effect on the state and whether subsidized wind is a cost-effective way of independent producing electricity in Idaho. ethics
add the words
51º high
E-Cigarettes
Mostly Cloudy
Concussion Bill: Idaho national schools are now required to develop guidelines for gaurd pulling student athletes from games following possible head injuries. This bill has the potential to protect young athletes from dangerous concussions. Texting While Driving: Texting while driving is now illegal in Idaho. Violators may be fined up to $85. After failing in 2010 and 2011, the bill allows Idaho to join the 35 states that have laws prohibiting handheld devices while behind the wheel. Animal Cruelty: The Senate passed Idaho’s first felony animal cruelty law, allowing Idaho to join 48 other states imposing tough penalties for the mistreatment of animals. Idaho National Guard Youth ChalleNGe: The program for teen dropouts provides an opportunity for youth to complete secondary education in a structured setting, giving them a second chance at a successful future. It is also expected to create as many as 50 new jobs for the state. Suicide Hotline: The Legislature granted $110,000 in start-up funding for a suicide prevention hotline. Idaho is currently the only state without a hotline. E-Cigarettes: Lawmakers prohibited the sale of electronic cigarettes to underage buyers.
The Bad
internet sales tax
animal cruelty
texting whilie driving
The Good
The Ugly Anti-Bullying Laws: New, strict anti-bullying laws passed in the Senate during this year’s legislative session, but were stopped cold in the House Education Committee, where lawmakers claimed schools are already wellequipped to deal with bullying, and don’t need state laws. The bill would have criminalized bullying that takes place off school grounds, including via the internet and electronic devices. Add The Words: In less than 10 minutes, the Senate State Affairs Committee killed this measure, backed by a grassroots movement hoping to gain protection from discrimination for Idaho’s LGBT community by adding the words “sexual orientation and gender identity” to Idaho’s existing Human Rights Act. “When you move into the realm of choices people make and the lifestyles they choose, and they want to claim special rights because they choose a certain lifestyle, that crosses a line,” said Majority Caucus Chairman, Rep. Ken Roberts (R). When asked to clarify what exactly he meant by “special rights,” Roberts admitted he had never read the proposal. Yes, Rep. Roberts. We can tell. Bryan Talbot/THE ARBITER
arbiteronline.com
10
Sports
April 05, 2012
arbiteronline.com
Engel’s Angle Opening Day John Engel Journalist
After a drama-filled offseason resembling the likes of an MTV reality series, Major League Baseball is back and better than ever. The main headlines of the winter were clearly the signing of former St. Louis Cardinals MVP Albert Pujols and Texas Rangers ace C.J. Wilson, as well as the blockbuster acquisition of Prince Fielder by the Detroit Tigers. When entering spring training, the clear favorites had already been defined: the Los Angeles Angels, Detroit Tigers and Philadelphia Phillies were all predicted to be outright favorites. As we near opening day, however, Detroit risks being overrated and the Phillies are on the verge of missing the playoffs. This season marks the year of the underdog, in which the Arizona Diamondbacks, Kansas City Royals and Toronto Blue Jays are considered some of the league’s best. Led by MVP candidate Justin Upton, the Diamondbacks are favored to win the American League West, in the midst of one of the weakest seasons in division history. Though the Detroit Tigers acquired arguably the best long-ball hitter in Prince Fielder, it is highly unlikely they will be able to make any headway in the postseason. Because of the lack of strength in the American League Central division, the Tigers will have no problem winning more than 90 games, but will not possess the pitching or defensive ability to compete for an AL title. For the past decade, the Toronto Blue Jays have been synonymous with losing in professional baseball. In 2012, they have the talent to vie for an American League wild card berth because of the recent immersion of third baseman Brett Lawrie. If placed in any National League division, the Blue Jays would have no trouble making the playoffs, but with the intense competition in the AL East, they may not be able to show off their new-found prospects on the grand stage. Yet another devastated franchise that hasn’t played in October in the 21st century, the Royals finally have promise in first baseman Eric Hosmer. Hosmer is predicted to hit more than 25 home runs in 2012 and will allow Kansas City to steal much needed wins from the favored Tigers. It’s clear Major League Baseball is a money-driven association in which the rich are awarded championships, and the poor are used as punching bags. With the emergence of lowbudget powerhouses such as Kansas City and Toronto, however, MTV will have difficulty competing with this season’s mega drama.
ROBBY MILO/THE ARBITER
Cornerback Jamar Taylor (5) takes down one of the Georgia Bulldogs in last season’s opener at the Georgia Dome.
Shut-down man
Wyatt Martin Sports Editor
Fourth and goal, the Arizona State Sun Devils are desperate for a touchdown, down 28-10 in the third quarter of the MAACO Bowl. ASU quarterback Brock Osweiler throws a backshoulder fade to one of his outside receivers in the corner of the endzone. Bronco cornerback Jamar Taylor reads the play and breaks on the ball—cue pick-six. While this 103-yard (100 officially) interception return could be the crowning
play for any defensive back to lay his hat on, Jamar Taylor wants more. The recordsetting touchdown is now in the rear-view mirror as Taylor and the Boise State secondary look to improve on an up and down 2011. After playing in only nine games last season, the San Diego native is hoping to stay healthy and help the Boise State secondary become one of the defense’s strongest units. “Last year, it was rough. But you learn from it and learn how to get through adversity, I think it makes me a better person this year,” Taylor said on having
to watch from the sideline at times last season. “This year I’m just trying to do the best I can for my team the last go round and move on from how I came back in the bowl game and just take that and stride with it.” Improving from last season will most likely fall upon the shoulders of Taylor and fellow senior Jerrell Gavins, (who is currently rehabbing from a seasonending knee injury suffered in practice last fall) as well as returning junior Ebo Makinde. The unit, which looked stellar at times (Tulsa, four interceptions and four pass
break-ups) and plum bad at times (TCU, 473 pass yards and five touchdowns allowed) will also look to new defensive backs coach Jimmy Lake to help them shut down opposing passing games. “He’s a great coach, coming from the NFL he knows a lot. A lot of terminology and smarts are getting ingrained in us. Some of the things we know, other things we don’t know—it’s good to put in our toolbox,” said Taylor. At 5-11, 196-pounds Taylor has the size and shut-down ability to garner some attention from NFL
scouts. While he has yet to make an all-conference team, the intangibles are there. During his first year of starting as a redshirt sophomore, Taylor allowed only one touchdown to a receiver on his side of the field. And though he only played in nine games for the Broncos last year, he was tied for second on the team with two interceptions. Taylor’s big play ability, size and attitude will surely force opposing offensive coordinators and quarterbacks to think twice before throwing at him this upcoming season.
Hard-hitting questions with Jamar Taylor Q: Xbox or PS3? I’ve got a PS3, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve stopped playing video games. Q: Favorite TV Show Alcatraz or Family Guy Q: Favorite Movie Friday Night Lights Q: Favorite Musician Lil Wayne and Young Jeezy Q: Favorite sport besides football Snowboarding Q: Favorite pre-game meal Pasta, salad and lots
of fruits Q: Best-dressed DB Me, Jerrell and Bryan Douglas. Q: Worst-dressed DB Jeremy Ioane, he’s Hawaiian so he’s always kind of casual, wearing flip flops in winter. Q: Favorite thing to do on your off days Walking my oneyear-old Rottweiler, Bear. Q:FavoriteNFLplayer All-time: Deion Sanders; Current: Darrelle Revis
Pulse Radio University
APRIL 14, 2012 @ 9:30 a.m.
For the students, by the students
bsupulse.com
Listennow The Arbiter
live at
www.bsupulse.com
arbiteronline.com
2
Page 2
April 5, 2012
World
National
$10 million bounty pressures Pakistan ISL AMABAD— Pakistan was stung Tuesday by the U.S. State Department’s announcement of a $10 million reward for the capture or conviction of the founder of a Pakistani militant group who allegedly carried out the November 2008 terrorist attacks on Mumbai, India’s largest city. The size of the bounty for Hafiz Mohammad Saeed, founder of the Lashkar-e-Taiba organization, is on par with what the U.S. is offering for Mullah Mohammad Omar, the leader of Afghanistan’s Taliban. U.S. officials also announced a $2 million reward for information leading to the location of Hafiz Abdul Rahman Makki, Saeed’s deputy and brother-in-law. Pakistani officials didn’t learn of the U.S. decision until newspaper websites in India, Pakistan’s archenemy, reported it. That prompted analysts in Islamabad to conclude it was a pressure tactic by Washington aimed at forcing Pakistan to reopen NATO supply routes to Afghanistan that were suspended last fall after a friendly fire incident. “The U.S. has upped the ante. It’s as if they’re saying: You blocked the NATO supplies, so we’ve
E ditor - in -C hief Rebecca De León
editor@ arbiteronline.com
M anaging E ditor
Haley Robinson managingeditor@ arbiteronline.com
N ews E ditor
done this,” Imtiaz Gul, director of the Center for Research and Security Studies, said in a press release. “It’s a very strong message.” Pakistan has previously said it can’t act against Saeed because the country’s fiercely independent judiciary has cleared him of involvement in the Mumbai attacks. Saeed currently faces no criminal charges in Pakistan, and in recent months he’s often appeared in public, denouncing the United States and calling for Islamabad to end counterterrorism cooperation with Washington. The State Department said in a news release “Saeed and his organization continue to spread ideology advocating terrorism, as well as virulent rhetoric condemning the U.S., India, Israel and other perceived enemies.” In Washington D.C., spokeswoman, Victoria Nuland said the decision to name Saeed had been in the works for months and wasn’t related to NATO supplies. The Mumbai attack in 2008 lasted four days and killed 166 people, including six American citizens. Saeed’s warrant is primarily for leading the planning of this multiday assault.
Suspect confesses to shooting on Monday, revenge was the motive
Local
worst mass killing in almost 20 years. Police are still piecing together the details of what happened as One L. Goh entered campus in East Oakland and opened fire in what police believe was an attempt to exact revenge on an administrator and other students he thought were disrespectful. Authorities said
Goh admitted his involvement in the shooting and told investigators one female administrator in particular was the object of his fury, mainly because she would not help him get back $6,000 in tuition. The 43-yearold suspect said he wanted to get back at the school and inflict pain, Police Chief Howard Jordan said.
WTF
Former BSU athlete dies This article is courtesy BroncoSports. Former Bronco Soccer player Amy Dunn, 29, lost her battle against cancer, Saturday March 31 after being diagnosed with Stage IV Melanoma in July 2011. Dunn was a fouryear letterwinner, playing defense for the Broncos from 2000 to 2003. Her impact was felt throughout her career as she currently sits eighth on the Boise State career list for games played with 73. The Boise State soccer team held an exhibition fundraiser for Dunn prior to the 2011 season, raising over $12,000 to help offset some of the medical expenses.
Submarines take tweeting into their own... hands? FLORIDA—Two small submarines for the University of South Florida, called Tavros, have been reporting their discoveries in the Gulf of Mexico on their own Twitter feeds at @Tavros01 and @Tavros02. So what exactly do they put in 140-characters or less? They detail their exact location in the Gulf and the water quality results. The Tavros (which stands for The Autonomous Vehicle and Remotely-Operated Sensing) have been tweeting since March 22. So far Tavros02 is the only one with posts showing on Twitter and has 152 followers, a lot of them from the university. Students have a new excuse in class—they weren’t checking their celebrity feeds, they were looking at the latest water quality results! “We were interested in getting machines taking in data and – like humans have processed that data in the past – Tweeting it back to us intelligently,” systems engineer David Fries, employee of University of South Florida, said. The current Tweets are a little dry now, but the next goal is to translate the science-speak into more every day terms. Information MCT Campus/The Arbiter
Clubs & Orgs Health Education & Promotion Majors! Your opportunity to make a difference is now!
at ashleygrigsby@u.boisestate.edu
BY LINDA C. BLACK Tribune Media Service
Today’s Birthday (04/05/12) The communication rivers are flowing! You may find yourself floating downstream en route to adventures of the academically, spiritually and physically enlightening kind. Infuse it all with love. To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.
Today is an 8 -- You’re entering a two-day creative cycle. Accept a bonus. Disagreement inspires imagination. Disappointments in love can be artistic fodder.
Cancer (June 22-July 22) Today is an 8 -- Constant interaction is beneficial today. The environment is right for making changes at home, and things could get busy. Accept contributions. Give thanks.
nd
Paintball
Ap ri l 22 Registration 9 am
Tournament 10:30 am
To ur na me nt
Dominator Series Event #2
Contact: Rob (208) 371 - 3577
3131 West Harvard, Boise 83705 2-Man Beginners $30 per team Semi-Auto - No Pods
Raffle/Prizes/Pod Grab Bag/ Lunch Provided
3-Man Rookie $45 per team Semi-Auto - 2 Pod Limit
25% of all entries will be donated to the BSU Art Department
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
Today is an 8 -- You really get into your studies now. Exploration and research become tantalizing. Love shines through. A quiet night with a movie could be delicious.
L ifestyles E ditor
The Funnies
Adventures of a crazy sports fan/Alyssa Cumpton
O nline T eam
Jessica Swider Troy Hatfield onlineeditor@ arbiteronline.com
Thursday’s Puzzle Solved Wednesday’s Puzzle Solved
(c)2012 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
34 Word after file or edit 35 Alka-Seltzer sound 37 K-12 38 “It’s not __ deal” 39 Midday 40 Dogie catcher 45 Some blenders 46 Pollen bearer 47 Fast-swimming fish 48 Wipes clean
4/5/12
49 Work with dough 50 Words on a Wonderland cake 51 Fred’s first partner 54 First name in architecture 55 Problem for a plumber 56 Versatility list 58 Even if, briefly 59 Short trip 60 Hanoi New Year
The Future
Gemini (May 21-June 21)
Wyatt Martin sports@ arbiteronline.com
Lindsey Hileman culture@ arbiteronline.com
DOWN 1 Like some lingerie 2 Sunscreen additive 3 They may be pooled 4 Wall climber 5 Poke fun at 6 One you might 5-Down 7 “Midnight Cowboy” role 8 Star quality 9 It. is there 10 What’s left 11 Doubles 12 Potter’s practice 13 Hit on the rear 18 Twofold 23 Big name in golf clubs 24 Summer coolers 25 “East of Eden” twin 26 Former Yugoslav leader 27 To whom Rick said, “The Germans wore gray. You wore blue” 28 Call for 29 Minor leagues 32 Gold meas.
Today is an 8 -- Focus on making money for the next few days, as work comes pouring in. Handle old business to make way for new creative projects. Express your affection with artistry.
Contact Ashley Grigsby
4/5/12
By Don Gagliardo and C.C. Burnikel
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
S ports E ditor
Eva Hart Tony Madonna letters@ arbiteronline.com
ACROSS 1 Pig __ 6 Out of the cooler? 10 Street prettifiers 14 Kicking partner 15 Maker of Old World Style sauces 16 Wet bar 17 One concerned with Times changes 19 Senate wrap 20 “Roundabout” band 21 Country club costs 22 Related 23 Offensive blueprint? 27 Diamond 30 Disney girl with a seashell bikini top 31 Dieter’s catchword 32 Stomach discomfort 33 Little devil 36 Beetle Bailey’s boss 41 Navy VIP 42 Wall St. deals 43 Vintner’s prefix 44 British Petroleum took majority ownership of it in 1978 46 Answers the call 49 Tonality indicator 52 Condé __: Vogue publisher 53 Carvey of “SNL” 54 URL-ending letters 57 Rock ending 58 Tournament that begins today (and collectively, words that begin 17-, 23-, 36- and 49-Across?) 61 Part of ABA: Abbr. 62 Mouse pad? 63 Hair-raising 64 GOP rivals 65 Receiving customers 66 Quits
Today is a 7 -- When in doubt, get a second opinion. There could be a change in plans, so take care. Compromise so that everyone wins.
Suzanne Craig news@ arbiteronline.com
O pinion E ditors
FOR RELEASE APRIL 5, 2012
Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle
Aries (March 21-April 19)
D eveloping N ews E ditor
John Garretson sports@ arbiteronline.com
Crossword Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Lewis
OAKL AND, CALIF. — Police have a confession in hand and charges are pending for the murder of the seven people killed in the shooting rampage at Oikos University Monday. Seven people died and three more were wounded in the shooting at the small Christian university—the Bay Area’s
Tasha Adams news@ arbiteronline.com
O nline S ports E ditor
arbiteronline.com
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Today is an 8 -- You’re entering a two-day potential spending spree, so take care. The money available you may need later for home repair. Evaluate a crazy suggestion.
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
Today is a 7 -- Don’t say it all yet. It isn’t what you thought. You’re confident now, with power increasing. Neatness counts. Check for errors and changes. Things may not go as planned.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Today is a 7 -- Slow down and think it over. The next two days are good for treasure hunting. Complete old tasks, and conserve resources without sacrifice.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
Today is a 6 -- Make sure you’re schedule is up to date. You’re in high demand among your friends; listen to their advice.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Today is a 6 -- The road ahead may be filled with obstacles. You can either find another route or plow ahead and enjoy the adventure. Disagree persuasively.
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Today is a 7 -- “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” The words of Helen Keller resonate with Aquarius today. Create something memorable. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Today is a 6 -- Intense feelings are on the rise. Learn to take advantage of them for the best. Trust your instinct. ___ (c) 2012, Tribune Media Services Inc.
Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
Sudoku
Level: 1
2
3
4
P hoto E ditor
Cody Finney photo@ arbiteronline.com
L ead C opy E ditor Katie Johnson
D esigners
brewster rockit
Bree Jones Bryan Talbot Cassie Harris production@ arbiteronline.com
SOLUTION TO SATURDAY’S PUZZLE
B usiness M anager
Matt Summers business@ arbiteronline.com
A d M anager
Miguel Varela ads@ arbiteronline.com
Contact Us arbiteronline.com 1910 University Dr Boise, ID 83725 Phone: 208.426.6300 Fax: 888.388.7554
Distributed Mondays & Thursdays during the academic school year. The Arbiter is the official independent student newspaper of Boise State University and a designated public forum, where student editors make all content
decisions and bear responsibility for those 2010 Arbiter’s The Mepham Group. Distr decisions.© The Tribune Media Services. All rights budget consists of fees paid by the student body and advertising sales. The first copy is free. Additional copies can be purchased for $1 apiece at The Arbiter offices.
arbiteronline.com
Feature
April 05, 2012
3
Kony 2012 goes viral Kimberley O’Bryan Senior Journalist
The week of March 7, the world witnessed a social media hurricane, with 70 million hits on the Kony 2012 video on YouTube by Friday, March 9. Those hits turned into millions of “likes” and “tweets” on Facebook and Twitter. The video was sponsored by Invisible Children (IC), a nonprofit organization founded by Jason Russell, Laren Poole and Bobby Bailey in 2003 when they traveled to Africa to film Darfur. They switched the focus of their film to the conflict in Northern Uganda. Amanda Gilmore, freshman and history major at Boise State saw IC’s original documentary at church while in the eighth grade. “It (the 2012 movement) is way overdue. This should have been started a long time ago,” Gilmore said. Amanda Kirchner was a student member of The Invisible Children chapter at Boise State, an organization that ended up failing to get off the ground. “I think that it is great that it has become viral and that so many people have been made aware of the issue, but I fear that like many issues that go viral, it may soon be forgotten,” Kirchner said. The point of the video is to raise awareness about the Ugandan warlord Joseph Kony and make him so infamous policymakers cannot ignore him and he won’t be able to hide from authorities. Kony, African warlord and leader of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) for 26 years, has kidnapped thousands of Ugandan children. Kony’s army is accused of human rights violations including slavery, rape, torture and mutilation. The Kony 2012 movement is accused of being distasteful. Ugandan people have come forward asking the movement to at least not plaster Kony’s face all over American towns. The campaign has also lost some legitimacy in
light of Russell’s recent mental breakdown in San Diego. Russell directed the 29-minute video which took the internet by storm. About 10 minutes in, Russel shares with his 5-year-old son Gavin that Kony is “a bad guy” who kidnaps children and forces them to kill people. The blonde boy’s responses are prime features of the video. The Boise State chapter of Invisible Children, which failed to gain a lot of student interest still has former members actively interested in the Kony 2012 campaign despite the controversy. “What moved me about this issue is that I had a fantastic childhood and it is disturbing that there are children that literally have their childhood stolen,” Kirchner said. Last year President Barack Obama issued 100 troops to help African forces find Kony. On March 21, two weeks after the video was released, 34 senators issued a resolution against Kony. Republican Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma said it’s imperative Kony is found and the LRA disarmed. “Only then will we be able to bring stability to Africa,” Inhofe said to the Washington Post. On March 23, the African Union announced it would send an additional 5,000 troops after Kony. In an effort to prompt more political action and further awareness, Invisible Children has encouraged people to plaster their towns with fliers and posters bringing attention to Joseph Kony and the plight of Ugandan children on April 20. There are websites from most major cities or universities proclaiming they will “cover the night” with Stop Kony posters in spite of disapproval regarding them. On wherevent.com, 523 Boiseans signed up to meet from 3 a.m. to 6 a.m. at the Capitol Building. Invisible Children’s website is sold out of the “action packs” containing posters. But Amazon, zazzle and many other retailers still have posters available.
Interview with Jim Poston, Current graduate student in Communication at Boise State, with an assistanceship teaching COMM101 and Theatre Arts. Poston received his Master’s of Opera Performance at Boston Conservatory and has 16 years’ experience in broadcast journalism.
What is your opinion of communication through social media? Throughout history, between the communicator and the audience, there has always been an intermediary. In the news media (the reporter) is the unofficial gatekeeper, the filter. And that always raises concerns for me. But, with the internet and the social media, you communicate directly with the audience.
What is the result of that direct communication? What we’re seeing as a direct result of social media is social uprisings in Egypt, in Tunisia, big time in Syria. It’s giving direct access to the people.
Were you surprised the Kony 2012 movie on YouTube received 70 million hits in one week? I was flabbergasted, I was thinking about comparing that to a Hollywood movie. If a Hollywood movie sold 70 million tickets, that would be huge.
What do you think of the possibility
of a huge media event leading to the capture of a war criminal like Kony?
It makes me happy, in fact, giddy.
Can you think of other times we could have used social media this way?
Another atrocity that occurred in the ‘90s was the Rwanda genocide: hundreds of thousands of people hacked to death with machetes. I wonder if today we had a Rwanda would the internet communication create more pressure as to cause us to be involved instead of conveniently ignoring it.
We’ve talked about the upsides of social media, what would you consider to be the downsides? My one concern is that you get sort of a vigilante justice mentality where the guy is convicted in the court of public opinion because of this video. Since there is no gatekeeper, we have to depend on the producer.
So in one sentence, describe social media. It’s the largest expansion of freedom of speech in the history of mankind.
Illustration by Bryan talbot and cassie harris/THE ARBITER
The Arbiter
arbiteronline.com
4
Local
April 05, 2012
arbiteronline.com
David Wuerth/THE ARBITER
Roark wants to focus on high-quality education with a strategic plan for 2012-2017. He said he will examine programs and adjust accordingly.
New dean to bring fresh ideas Tony Roark has been named the new dean of the College of Arts and Sciences after a nationwide search
Lauren Jacob Journalist
Tony Roark, Ph.D., 1999 graduate of the University of Washington and Boise State’s new Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences talks about his new position, his history at Boise State and what he hopes to accomplish. Arbiter: What are your goals for your new position? Roark: We’ve got a strategic plan in place for 2012-2017 that focuses on effectiveness.
There are a number of goals that are important because of the variety of departments and programs for undergraduate minors and majors in our college. Our plan emphasizes the highest quality education for all students. We need to examine programs and teaching and make adjustments accordingly. We also need to remove obstacles that prevent students from learning and stand in the way of graduation. We’ll probably increase our online courses.
We also want to be relevant and have good relationships with TV, government and other universities in the Treasure Valley. Another goal is our research. We want to do everything possible to support it. Arbiter: What are your responsibilities as the Dean? Roark: I have authority over the college budget so all department chairs report to me. I have a responsibility for personnel in the college. All hiring positions have to
be approved by me. I’m also responsible for curriculum. It all has to be approved at my level if changed or new. Arbiter: Are you still teaching while you have this position as Dean? Roark: Not this semester, but last semester and fall of 2012 I taught Philosophy 305, which is Ancient Greek Philosophy. That’s my area of specialty. It’s a real privilege and honor to take this position. I’m humbled. But I love being
around students. One of my regrets is that I don’t get to be around them as much as I want to. It’s one of the professional costs of taking the position. Arbiter: Do you plan to teach more in the future? Roark: Depending on teaching needs, I’m willing to teach other courses. I’m also interested in getting involved in foundational studies. Arbiter: What is your previous involvement with Boise State? Roark: I was hired in 2000
as an adjunct philosophy professor, in 2001 was made associate professor, and in 2006 was given tenure. Arbiter: When were you hired as the new Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences? Roark: I started this position on Feb. 29. Arbiter: Is there any plan of splitting the College of Arts and Sciences in two? Roark: There are no plans to split the college. Our diversity of programs, faculty, and students is our strength.
Boise disc golf goes for a spin Trevor Villagrana
Assistant Lifestyles Editor
The origin of disc golf is one shrouded in infinite mystery —a gaggle of Canadian school boys in the mid-1920s have been considered the creators, but over the last few decades the sport has blossomed into a full-blown lifestyle enjoyed by many around the world. For Steve Loyd, disc golf is just that—a sport boundless in its efforts to be all-inclusive and fun for any and all shapes and sizes. After being introduced to disc golf by his older brother, Loyd has come to inherit a seat on the Gem State Disc Golfers’ Board of Directors and is currently in charge of memberships. However, the Seattle-native
wasn’t sold right away when it came to tossing weighted discs into chained baskets. Fortunately, his efforts from a young age, in tandem with some guidance and brotherly camaraderie, led him to pursue the disc golf tournament circuit. “It was more just something to do,” Loyd said about those fledgling years. “Sometimes when you were just super bored you would go out because it’s a good walk in the park and after a while you grew relationships with people on the course who ended up being your friend.” The Gem State Disc Golfers compete year round, despite the meteorological inconsistencies of the Treasure Valley.
Day in and day out, rain or shine, you can find these boys sizing up putts and throwing disc at Ann Morrison Park, Julia Davis Park and other Frisbee hot spots around town. Some of the main draws to the game involve not only athletic benefits, but also advantages to those eager to get outdoors but not necessarily under the umbrella of Olympic giftedness. According to the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) website, “Disc golf provides upper and lower body conditioning, aerobic exercise and promotes a combination of physical and mental abilities that allow very little risk of physical injury.” Travis Lindstrom, owner
ROBBY MILO/THE ARBITER
Boise State student John Farnham practices frisbee golf in Ann Morrison Park. of Boise Disc Golf, located at 916 S. Vista Ave., caters to a melting pot of these athletes looking to burn calories, make new friends and work
MID WINTER SALE selected boards, boots, bindings, goggles, helmets & outerwear now We are located right around the corner from BSU Stadium.
1021 Brodway Ave. Boise ID 83702 (208) 385-9300 newtandharolds.com Follow:
%
20OFF
on their tan in a low-cost, lowimpact way. Lindstrom is currently working to expand the sport at a high school and junior high
level. Having worked with kids, educators and parents at Boise High, Hawthorne Elementary and West Junior High, Lindstrom intends to also tap into markets such as A New Leaf, which provides services developmentally challenged children. “Disc golf is a great way to get them out there to enjoy the fresh air,” Lindstrom said. “It’s definitely a lifetime sport.” For those looking to try their hand at disc golf, or get a glimpse at what it takes to survive on the course, the Treasure Valley Cup kicks off on April 7 at Eagle Island State Park. The event is an officiated PGDA C-Tier event and all are welcome to attend.
FRIDAY APRIL 13 TH at 7:30PM SUNDAY APRIL 15 TH at 2:30PM The Egyptian Theatre
15
$
Student Rush Ticket
TICKETS: www.operaidaho.org • 387.1273 (TUES-SAT 11-6) The Arbiter
available 1 hr before the performance
arbiteronline.com
Top ten scholars
6
Local
April 05, 2012
arbiteronline.com
Tasha Adams News Editor
On April 17 at 3:30 p.m., the Boise State Alumni Association will recognize 10 graduating seniors for their exceptional academic success. The awards ceremony, which takes place in the Simplot Ballroom of the Student Union Building, will feature remarks from each honoree as well as alumnus Jim Davis and Boise State President Bob Kustra. There is no charge for the event but registration is required. Register online at alumni.boisestate.edu or call (208) 426-1959 by April 12. To qualify for consideration, a student must have a GPA of 3.85 or higher and then they are reviewed based on academic breadth of coursework, research, creative works and publications and presentations at professional meetings or conferences, and extra curricular community and campus service.
Jessica Minick materials science and engineering major
Anjannette Monroe
double major in criminal justice and social sciences, addiction studies minor
Concepcion Yeng Amy Jo Claffey psychology major with an Chi Martinez graphic designer major, chemistry minor
Eric Schuler
double major in economics and accountancy
emphasis on childhood trauma and dissociation
Aaron Smith
mechanical engineering major and minors in biomedical engineering and dance
George Fenton
Carly Gerard
Amy Tompkins
Efren Velazquez
exercise science major with a biomechanics emphasis, biomedical engineering minor
economics major, mathematics minor
psychology major
viola performance major
illustration by cassie Harris/THE ARBITER
Makers United! will introduce you to science Stephen Percy Journalist
When he was a small child, Adrian Rothenbuhler tried to convert his pedal-powered toy tractor into a jet ski. Although he failed miserably, ending up with a heap of parts and one less toy, he did not give up on science. Rothenbuhler set out early on his quest for knowledge and would spend hours taking apart old computers his father brought home from work or stringing elaborate networks of electrical wires through his grandmother’s house while he dreamed of harnessing the energy of lightning bolts. His persistence eventually paid off. Rothenbuhler is now a graduate student majoring in electrical engineering. Among other things, he is the lead systems engineer for Greenspeed, a team of students who engineered and assembled the fastest vegetable oil-powered vehicle on the planet. While a lesser electrical engineer might be content to sit back and set landspeed records, Rothen-
The Arbiter
buhler feels compelled to share his love of science and passion for creativity with others. For this reason Rothenbuhler helped fellow engineering student and Greenspeed teammate Jenny Kniss found Makers United!, a student group dedicated to the development of do-it-yourself projects. According to Rothenbuhler, the club was founded in part because Kniss, a computer science major, noticed there were not very many female students in her engineering classes. Both Rothenbuhler and Kniss were concerned students who might otherwise pursue studies in engineering were being intimidated by the stereotypical image of the field as overly difficult and complex. When Rothenbuhler tells people he is an electrical engineer, they often assume that he is a real brain, but he points out he struggled with the abstract concepts of mathematics until he was able to put them to use in a hands on environment. “I’m not good at math,” Rothenbuhler said. “The 100 and 200 level classes
they were challenging for me, but then once you get higher up in your engineering classes you can actually take those concepts and apply them to a problem.” Makers United! works to empower students by bringing makers together at workshops where they can engage with engineering projects at a hands-on level. One of the club’s first projects will be a workshop where students can learn how use Arduino boards— a type of small computer called a microcontroller which can be programmed to control a variety of devices such as LED lights or simple robots. According to Rothenbuhler, Arduino boards can be used by people with little to no experience and are increasingly used to create interactive works of art. For some students, the workshop might serve as a sort of tentative first date with science. Rothenbuhler hopes it might help students overcome phobias of science and engineering. “Hey, science is cool, don’t be afraid of it,” he said. While Rothenbuhler knows all about the joys
of tinkering alone in a garage, he believes getting together with other makers is vital to the success of creative undertakings. Rothenbuhler’s experience with Greenspeed is a testa-
ment to what can happen when makers unite. “I think it’s important that you don’t just play around in your garage but you get together and meet other makers,” Rothen-
buhler said. To learn more about how to participate in workshops and other upcoming Makers United! events contact MakersUnitedIdaho@ gmail.com.
arbiteronline.com
6
Local
April 05, 2012
Followers
based on true stories
The first day, redux Trevor Villagrana
Assistant Lifestyles Editor
Dejected, Cameron made his way up the library steps to where Julie was sitting. He was sure no words could express his sincerest apology, but something about this girl seemed to electrify him. Armed with a deep breath and an empty stomach, he stole into Starbucks, only to find what appeared to be a linebacker carrying two open-faced coffees toward Julie’s table. Unable to halt his unbearable forward progress, he placed his hand on her shoulder and finally exhaled. Part II: the Apology “We need to talk,” he said. Wearing a river of black mascara all down the ridges of her cheek bones, Julie’s eyes stumbled into a fixated stare and like a train wreck, Cameron was plagued with the inability to look away. “You’re Cameron aren’t you?” bellowed the linebacker, who was now on his feet, beating on his chest like an ape in estrus. “I’m going to give you five seconds before I turn your face into your ass.” Unsure of how to respond to such a request, Cameron’s attention was immediately drawn back to Julie, who was
now frantically gathering up her stuff to make yet another dramatic escape. Coffee in hand, she stood up and threw what he assumed to be a mocha right into his face—who drinks iced coffee in the middle of January? He beckoned to her as she once again walked steadfast out of his life forever. “Next time I’d recommend extra hot!” said Cameron, failing to remember the six-foot behemoth who was preparing to rearrange his whole existence. Like a gorilla with the strength of 10 gorillas, the linebacker spun Cameron around, cocked back and left what could only be a giant “KA-POW” in his place. Cameron awoke several minutes later in a hole of poorly executed revival strategies. As he came to, the bewildered faces extended their respective limbs and slowly got him to his feet. “I’m surprised his head is still connected to his shoulders,” said a face in the crowd. “That was like the National Geographic of ass whooping.” “Back up and give this kid some room,” said an eerily familiar voice. “Cameron, honey, how many fingers am I holding up?” He opened his eyes to the stark image of Sally and a mile long middle finger pointed right in his direction. Her eyes were like daggers thrust into his side, but her smile was warm and inviting as always. “Sally, I’m sorry for being such an idiot,” said Cameron, as blood trickled down from every orifice in his face. “Now’s not the time,” she said. “Let’s get you home and out of these wet clothes.” “Followers” is a quasiautobiographical miniseries about a college senior looking back on his freshman year at Boise State University.
CODY FINNEY/THE ARBITER
Junior Hing Potter and Sophomore Zach McCkeery run in style to the REC for their morning workout.
The skinny on getting skinny Americans must make permanent life changes to get healthy Haley Robinson Managing Editor
America has a fast-paced culture full of people who get anxious if their smart phone won’t update the new Facebook app in less than 30 seconds and complain about waiting in a fast food drive thru for more than four minutes. So it’s no surprise the public is attracted to magazine workout stories that promise to tone or tighten any body part in just days or weeks. Americans seem to constantly be on the lookout for a quick fix for everything. Unfortunately, as convenient as it would be, fitness is not something that can be attained quickly. Instead, it’s a life choice.
HIRING PAID
JOB
THOUGHTNEED
EMPLOYEES NETWORK ONLINE ART
CHANGE
TODAY
REAL
AUDIO
PAY
ORGANIZATION
BECOME
CAREER
REAL
TALK
SOCIAL
INFOR M AT I O N
SOMEONE
POSITIONS ONLINE
arbiteronline.com
NEED
TALK
StudentMedia EXPERIENCE BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported that one-third of adults in the United States are considered obese. According to The American Heart Association, the number goes up to 60 to70 percent when taking into account the Americans who are any amount overweight. In 2010, Idaho fell into the statistics with 26.5 percent obesity in adults. But Ada County landed in the fitter realm in Idaho with 21.8 percent of the population considered obese. This rising obesity crisis has spurred an industry based on finding the quick fix. Magazine articles and weight loss supplements that promise to help people burn weight off in unbelievably short amounts of time are just that—unbelievable. They don’t give the public a realistic view of what to expect or how to attain and maintain a healthy level of fitness. No one wants to hear that it’s going to take a huge commitment and multiple weeks to even begin to see results, but if Americans really want to change, they need to have a realistic outlook on what to expect. Charity Majors, a grad student earning her master’s in health science with an emphasis in health promotion, said she believes that consistency is key when it comes to reaching weight loss goals. As a fitness expert, she also knows just how much of a commitment it takes to get healthy, saying that it takes about four to six weeks to start seeing results. “It takes a while, and depending on your goal, four to six weeks might just be the beginning of your goal,” Majors said. “If you have a weight loss goal of 10 pounds, you’re probably going to lose about a pound per week, so that’s 10 weeks and that means you’re
doing most things correctly on a consistent basis for those 10 weeks. You can’t have a really good week and then on the weekend drink a lot and eat a lot and then you’ve just erased everything good that you’ve done for that week. You need to be consistent for a period of time.” Because of the fast-paced society Americans live in, this serious commitment to making time and prioritizing health can make many give up quickly. Since motivation can be something that many people struggle with—especially just starting out—fitness grad student Alisa Kagukina encourages people to do things that interest them and to continuously try new things. “I feel that the people who say ‘I hate exercising’ just didn’t find the right one for them,” Kagukina said. “Because there are so many things you can do. You can’t just hate everything. I feel that there’s something for everybody.” When it comes to diet, Majors has a couple pieces of advice. First, it’s important to track eating. According to Majors, the most successful people regarding weight loss are the ones who are counting their calories. She says it’s best to log what they eat because most people don’t know what or how much they are eating on a daily basis. For people who don’t, the extra calories they’re overlooking can add up quickly. “If you were to eat 96 more calories than what you burned every single day for a year, you would gain 10 pounds,” Majors said. The second piece of advice is to set realistic goals. “It takes a while to reach weight loss goals. It doesn’t come on overnight and it’s not going to come off overnight,”
we are looking for
If you struggle to control your asthma, even with medication, you may want to learn about the FLUTE clinical trial. If you struggle to control your Local doctors are conducting the FLUTE clinical asthma, even with medication, trial to evaluate an investigational inhaled you may want to learn about corticosteroid drug and device combination the FLUTE clinical trial. Inhaler. called Fp Dry Powder Local doctors are conducting the FLUTE clinical If you are experiencing persistent, uncontrolled trial to evaluate an investigational inhaled asthma despite the use of non-corticosteroid corticosteroid drug and device combination therapy, we hope that you will consider called Fp Dry Powder Inhaler. participating in this clinical trial. If you are experiencing uncontrolled To pre-qualify forpersistent, this clinical trial, you or asthmayour despite use of non-corticosteroid childthe must: therapy, we hope that you will consider Be at least 12clinical years of age (or age 18 in participating in this trial. countries that permit enrollment of adults only) To pre-qualify this clinical trial,of you or Have afor medical diagnosis asthma your child Bemust: on a short-acting B2-agonist or noncorticosteroid for at least three Be at least 12 years of agemedication (or age 18 in months prior toenrollment this clinicaloftrial countries that permit adults only) havediagnosis used an inhaled corticosteroid for at Have aNot medical of asthma least six weeks prior toorthis clinical trial Be a short-acting B2-agonist
VIDEO
ART
WORD
THOUGHT
TIME
Account Executives Graphic Designers Opinion Manager Lead Copy Editor TODAY VIDEO Features Editor K N O W L E D G E AUDIO EMPLOYEES Video Editor SOCIAL CAREER PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS Sports Editor WORK ORGANIZATION Music Director KNOWLEDGE BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL VOICE News Editor SEE BECOME SOMEONE Online Editor Arts & Entertainment Editor Apply now at
jobs@stumedia.boisestate.edu
The Arbiter
Majors said. “There’s no magic pill, there’s no Biggest Loser ranch that you live on and people cook your food for you work out for eight hours a day and you lose 10 pounds in a week—that’s not realistic and so a lot of our approach with our clients, regardless of their goals, it’s all about moderation and finding that healthy balance.” “Just make it fun. Keep it fun and exciting. Variation is very important,” Kagukina said with a smile. Finally, when establishing a path to success, it’s a good idea to remember the importance of rewards. And while it’s tempting for people to dive back into what they’re used to rewarding themselves with (a dessert or a big hamburger), according to Majors, the best rewards are never going to be food. Instead, she suggests rewards that encourage people to stay active and stress-free such as a massage, or a new workout shirt. It can be difficult to find what works for each person individually, and there is no one “right” answer for how to get in shape. But typically, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. In order to deal with the serious obesity crisis the United States is facing, it’s time for Americans to be realistic about facing what they really need to do to be healthy. Instead of spending time, effort or money seeking out the fastest and easiest ways to slim down or get in shape, people need to be ready to commit to a life change and find what works for them. “Just try to believe in yourself,” Kagukina said. “There are some things you’ll never be able to change in your body because it’s just the way you were born. Just start loving yourself and the way you are.”
F ute
noncorticosteroid medication for at least three Qualified will receive clinical months prior toparticipants this clinical trial trial-related medicalcorticosteroid evaluations and Not have used an inhaled for atclinical trialweeks medication noclinical cost. In addition, least six prior toat this trial
reimbursement for travel may also be provided. Qualified participants will receive clinical Study Information by PPD, Inc. 0408111200 110716 An asthma clinical trial-related medical evaluations and clinical trial evaluating Fp Dry Powder Inhale r trial medication at no cost. In addition, learn more, please contact: To learn more, please contact: Boise Valley Asthma Allergy Clinic reimbursement for traveland may also be provided. <<Clinic Name>>
<<Phone Number>>
Study Information by PPD, Inc. 0408111200 Call 208-890-5833
110716
arbiteronline.com
Opinion
arbiteronline.com
April 05, 2012
7
Put it in Print
Break the fee Bryce DunhamZemberi Columnist
Priority registration Participation in athletics and/or Honors College should not affect registration dates Eva Hart
Opinion editor
Most students dread class registration because they are scared of not getting into the classes they need or getting stuck on a waitlist. Student athletes and those enrolled in the Honors College, however, don’t have to worry about waitlists or the little blue square that indicates a closed class. Priority registration dates aren’t fair and students should all be treated equally. Registration dates should be determined strictly by class standing and nothing else. The argument can be made students in the Honors College have extra requirements to fulfill and higher GPAs to maintain. Students who aren’t in
the Honors College think that’s a weak excuse to take up valuable class space, because they want to be able to keep a high GPA, too. Cassandra Kawaguchi, a junior undeclared major, doesn’t think the argument is valid, either. “Everyone that’s in college has requirements to fulfill,” Kawaguchi said. “Allowing honor students and athletes priority registration over the rest of the student body (is) unfair in many ways. It inadvertently shows favoritism towards a select few, putting others at a direct disadvantage.” Just because honors students have a few more requirements for graduation doesn’t mean they deserve to register a month before everyone else. It’s not like these students
are paying extra for this luxury and it is wrong to favor one student over another. There are juniors and seniors who get waitlisted because freshman and sophomore athletes and honors students are filling up the spots. “There are lots of students who waste time and money taking classes they don’t need because they couldn’t get into the classes they did need,” Kawaguchi said. Kristen McKenzie, senior in marketing, hasn’t gone a single semester without being waitlisted for at least one class and she is upset about it. “It’s a load of crap that I have been at Boise State for four years and I’m still getting waitlisted and not getting the classes I need when freshman athletes
come in and have no problem taking the classes they need,” McKenzie said. “Boise State favors the athletes—there’s no secret there.” It’s understandable athletes have certain dates and times they can’t be in class due to their sport schedules. But shouldn’t school come before sports? If Boise State insists on keeping priority registration, then when classes get filled before the average student can even register, they should open up more classes for the rest of the students. Or they should extend priority registration to students who have jobs on campus and students on work study. Many students are trying to balance their class
schedule with jobs on and off campus. Football players aren’t the only students with hectic schedules and Boise State needs to acknowledge that. Everyone is paying tuition and putting in effort to be at Boise State so registration dates should be based solely on the students’ class standing and nothing else.
ONLINE Read the counterpoint to this argument by going to arbiteronline.com.
Reaction 2012 to Kony 2012
Everyone can have a hand in the capture of Kony Wyatt Martin Sports editor
If you haven’t heard of the Kony 2012 movement in the last month, then unfortunately you must have a terrible Wi-Fi connection in the rock you’re living under. The social media sensation has taken over headlines, prime time news programs and pretty much every Twitter and Facebook feed. On the surface, this movement seems to have nothing but the best of intentions (catch the most wanted war-criminal on earth— what could be wrong with that?). Unfortunately, the group Invisible Children responsible for the initial video has come under heavy fire for their portrayal of the events in Uganda. Claims that the group embellished certain aspects of the war in Uganda, along with some skepticism regarding the transparency of their financial dealings have hurt the credibility of the movement and its founders. Not to mention the current fiasco with group co-founder and creator of the 2012 video, Jason Russell, who apparently suffered a mental breakdown two weeks ago from a condition known as reactive psychosis, (set on by exhaustion, stress and dehydration) Guest opinions and Letters to the Editor (300 to 500 word limit each) can be emailed to letters@ arbiteronline.com
The Arbiter
leading to a hysterical outburst on a San Diego street corner. While this publicity surely isn’t the type of attention the Invisible Children group is looking to gain, it is serving another purpose— it’s getting their name out. Kony 2012 and the Invisible Children have been in the media enough to spread their message and pass along the knowledge that there are extremely evil people living on the planet who need to be held accountable for their actions. This was the overall goal of their campaign—to create awareness. Just like with any other social media outburst, there will be backlash and there will be naysayers. But the fact is, there are hundreds of thousands, if not millions of people who now know who Joseph Kony is. The idea that a small group of people can create enough attention to spread a message through our society is unbelievable. That with outlets such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, we can connect with others who are half a planet away and search for answers to solve some of the world’s problems. This is what grabbed my attention in the Kony phenomenon. But with all the problems in the
The Arbiter cannot verify the accuracy of statements made in guest submissions. Opinions expressed by guest and staff colum-
world, why should we focus on this one? Why not? If we take the attitude that there are too many problems in the world to try and solve, then problems will obviously continue. They’re not going to solve themselves. If we can look at something and say, “This shouldn’t be happening,” we can then begin trying to attack problems and finding solutions for them one by one. You can’t simply share a link on your Facebook and call yourself an activist. True, but when the goal of the campaign is awareness and drawing attention to something, it can damn sure help. Everyone can’t just drop their lives and ship off to Africa to save people. We do what we can, even if that simply entails passing the word along. In today’s world it’s easy to get so wrapped up in celebrity gossip, reality TV, sporting events and other aspects of our own lives, that sometimes we forget that there’s a big world around us that isn’t perfect. There are people out there who need our help and Kony 2012 illustrates that whether our contribution is big or small, we can actually do something about it.
nists reflect the diversity of opinion in the academic community and often will be controversial, but they do not represent the institution-
al opinion of The Arbiter or any organization the author may be affiliated with unless it is labeled as such. The Arbiter cannot guarantee
submissions will make it to print due to time and space constraints. The content of the opinion does not affect its eligibility to be printed.
Online
mct campus
Students get to registration day and are surprised when many of their needed classes are already filled or even closed.
Despite paying a $147 fee, students living on campus have fewer freedoms and services. Universities are finding new ways to nickel and dime on-campus students. One popular way is to charge students a break fee. Spring and fall breaks are not included in the academic calendar. Therefore, Boise State Housing passes all off-calendar housing services and utilities to the students staying during semester breaks. Students pay that month’s rent, plus an extra break fee, making this month more expensive than others. According to an email from Mandi Pierce, Assignment Coordinator for Boise State housing, there is a $147 fee for students staying between the dates of March 24 and March 31. Fliers were also posted on dormitory entrances stating that all students must check in all guests—but not more than two—at a time and these guests cannot stay overnight. If any student were to be found in their dormitory over break they would have to pay a $500 fine. Even though students are paying a $147 dollars to stay on campus, students still cannot have two guests at a time. These guests cannot spend the night without being at risk of a heavy fine. The two guests and nightly limit do not apply during the regular academic semester, but do apply to fee-paying students. During the semester break, fee-paying students also have less access to front desk services. The front desk is only open two hours a day during break. A telephone service is provided, but is also inconvenient for students who utilize the front desk area as a place to meet friends or play fooseball. The fee is also expensive for students who have already budgeted a monthly rent check. Andrew McKeeth, senior double majoring in Spanish and communication, points out working students who live on campus lose a percentage of their weekly income by paying a break fee. “Most students cannot (pay the break fee). Jobs are making $7.25 an hour for four hours a day,” McKeeth said. If a student works 20 hours a week he or she makes $145 a week before taxes. This is two dollars less than the university’s demands. An entire week’s pay is spent, but still students cannot have a three-person sleep over or use the front desk during convenient hours. It is counter-intuitive for students to pay their rent twice and get less services and freedoms for it. Boise State should lower the cost of monthly rent during semester breaks and only collect break fees from the students who want to stay. This way students staying over break pay the same monthly rent and students who do not, pay less. Read unprinted opinions online.
arbiteronline.com
8
April 05, 2012
Sports
arbiteronline.com
Determined Strong Professional
Gymnastics will compete in the NCAA tournament Nikki Hanson
Assistant Sports Editor
The Boise State women’s gymnastics team, ranked No. 15, will hit the road to compete in the 2012 NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Fayetteville Regional Championships hosted by the University of Arkansas, in Fayetteville, Ark. The championship will commence in Barnhill Arena on Sat., April 7 at 3 p.m. Last year, the ladies had a heartbreaking NCAA Tournament—just missing the mark to place third, losing in what they were told was a tiebreaker with Florida. However, the judges had different ideas, and the ladies placed 4th unable to advance to Nationals. “It’s hard,” redshirt senior Amy Glass said. “I know those on the team that are a little bit older, we definitely remember.
Neil reminds us all the time. But that was definitely a huge motivator for this year. It’s kind of always in the back of our minds. We make sure to remind the freshman and the people who were here last year how that felt.” The ladies have had to overcome a lot of adversity and injuries. However, they came together and became a stronger unit because of this. “We have never made it to nationals before, but we do not let that discourage us. We are determined and want to go this year,” Glass said. The Broncos have a younger team this season, but this has not acted as a deterrent for the team. “Honestly you can’t even tell that they are freshman. Even from the first meet that they went too, they stepped out on the floor like they were pros, like veter-
ans,” junior Brittany Potvin-Green said. “They just do an awesome job. I think what we do is that we definitely try to make it a team atmosphere, regardless of what year you.” The main thing this young team has focused on is remaining healthy during the season, specifically going into the NCAA tournament. “Healthy is relative,” co-head coach Neil Resnick said. “Have we had a season ending injury? No—it’s awesome. Have we had little dings, bumps and bruises that have kept kids out of meets here and there? Absolutely. The nice news is that everyone on our roster is on the go list right now. Which is the first time since the first week of the season.” The ladies have a work mentality like a well-oiled machine. It is a professional working environment.
“The thing I love about the last couple teams we have had is that they come in without drama. They just do their stuff. The gym is very business like. I guess if I had to use one word it would be professional. They come in, are focused on the job, focused on technique, they don’t get overly emotional, they know it’s about executing. Good technique has no emotion,” coach Resnick said. The NCAA tournament will be a test to all the ladies have worked toward for the entire season. They have practiced long hours and committed their time for the betterment of their performance. Their practice environment mirrors their competitive environment, but more importantly they all encourage one another with an intensity that displays the unbreakable bonds between the ladies. illustration by bryan talbot/THE ARBITER
The Arbiter
arbiteronline.com
Sports
arbiteronline.com
April 05, 2012
9
mct campus
mct campus
x x x x x x The Game
-----------
o f G ar ret s o n o o o
An ode to John Calipari John Garretson Online Sports Editor
Here’s to you, John Calipari—or should I say Coach Cal—a man with no bigger a heart and no stronger a voice than the Hall of Famers who have shined on the college court in decades past. A voracious tiger on the hunt for the top prey in a thick jungle. A Greek general inspiring his warriors moments before battle. There are a few types of coaches that Calipari falls under who exist in basketball today. His story, however, wasn’t an overnight success—quite the
contrary, to be exact. From 1988-96, Calipari brought the then-barren program of University of Massachusetts Minutemen, leading them to five consecutive Atlantic-10 titles, in which there was a period his team ranked No. 1 overall, nationally. Sure, the Naismith, Sporting News and Basketball Times Coach of the Year awards piled up, but none of it mattered more than two major feats: leading the Minutemen to their first Final Four appearance and shaping Naismith Player of the Year award winner Marcus Camby into the perenial player he became. Next up on the Calipari rollercoaster was an unexpected career dip that clung to his image for years to come. Taking a stab in the professional league, Calipari took a coaching job with the New Jersey Nets, from 1997-99. While his sophomore year was deemed a success, his third year went south. Calipari was fired after a 3-17, leaving him not only jobless, but out of basketball. The Memphis Tigers of the Conference USA gave Coach Cal life once again, allowing him to be in his true element of college basketball. Winning over 200 games in his nine seasons of coaching for the Tigers, seven consecutive 20-win seasons and despite NCAA allegations associated with prized
ex-Tiger Derrick Rose that vacated it, posted the first 38win season in men’s college basketball. What goes up, must come down as they say, and Calipari accomplished all but one thing during his Tiger tenure: a national championship, losing to Kansas in 2008. A dream job had presented itself to Calipari in 2009: becoming the Kentucky Wildcats Head Coach. And as he said, “taking the UK job was the easy part, leaving the city of Memphis was the difficult part,” but continued his dominant recruiting from years past to Lexington. Taking No. 1 rated recruits off the board made Calipari as happy as a kid in a candy store, bringing in the likes of DeMarcus Cousins, John Wall and Brandon Knight. But it was the same old taste of disappointment come tournament time. That changed in 2011, with the help over five star studs in Anthony Davis and Michael-Kidd Gilchrist, Calipari got what he longed for: a national title. If he had lost to Kansas (once again) on Monday night, his name would have gone down infamy for-ev-er. But that is not the case, and for that Coach Cal, I salute you.
s p l a s h i n to s p ri n g w i t h
•PAL M TA N
AC
ALM BE •P AC
BE
H
H TAN•
a Free Sunless Spray Tan 4 Free Sunbed Tans
TANS
or tan all month for $24.95.* Offer valid for new members, one time only. Free tans expire 7 days from redemption. Membership rules apply. *Reduced price valid for first month Premier Rewards Silver Level Membership. See salon associate for complete details. expires 4/30/12.
Ty Hawkins
Senior Journalist
John Calipari won the big one and, like Frank Sinatra, he did it his way. He defied the standards and odds by recruiting oneand-done players to the college basketball crazed Mecca that is the University of Kentucky, leading them to their eighth National Championship win Monday night, and his first in four Final Four
EXERCISE
YOUR design
free sunless
4 free present this coupon and enjoy 4 free silver Level sunbed tanning sessions,
Will Calipari finally get to keep a banner?
why would he? He was already setting up shop in the Bluegrass State as the Wildcats’ new head coach. Calipari released a statement saying “Even though I’m not at risk, I will fully cooperate with the NCAA hearing. I will have no further comment.” Like UMass, Memphis was forced to vacate wins as well as their banner. In the summer of 2011, Michael O’Brien of The Chicago Sun Times reported that AllAmerican Anthony Davis was going to UK for the price of $200,000. Multiple sources acknowledged the fact that Davis’s father had been shopping his son in the $125,000-150,000 price range. UK boosters apparently one-upped the competition by throwing an additional 50K his way. Said Davis Sr. of the allegations and story that was run: “Thanks for ruining my son. Thank you very much.” History has a funny way of repeating itself and every where he’s been he’s left a paper trail. As a college basketball fan, I hope UK fans can enjoy their one shining moment. However I won’t be surprised if some funny business comes to light and this team ends up like UMass and Memphis. Stranger things have happened in Kentucky.
SKILLS
LUV your sunless spray tan or it's free.
Hawks Nest
appearances. Coaches like to leave a stamp wherever they go and Cal has done that at every university he’s led, sometimes in a negative light. While at the University of Massachusetts, he and a young center named Marcus Camby led the Minutemen to the 1996 Final Four. Once it surfaced that Camby had received cash and gifts from two separate sports agents, the NCAA forced UMass to forfeit their 35 wins and the Final Four banner that once hung in the rafters. Did Cal care? Probably not, as he was headed to coach the lowly New Jersey Nets in the NBA. During his senior year in high school, Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose was coveted by every major program in the country. Cal, who was, by then, the head coach at the University of Memphis (he was fired by the Nets after going 3-17) lured him to Tennessee with his NBA ties amongst other things. Rose eventually led the Tigers to the 2008 National Championship game where they fell to the Kansas Jayhawks 75-68. Rumors swirled after Rose’s departure for the NBA that a former high school teammate had taken the SAT for him so he would be eligible for his freshmen season. Again, did Cal care? Doubtful. And
SPRAY TAN present this coupon and enjoy 1 Free sunless spray tan when you purchase one at regular price,
or spray tan all month from $49.95.* Offer valid for new or existing members, one time only. Membership rules apply. *$49.95 first month with our Sunless Unlimited Premier Rewards membership. See salon for complete details. expires 4/30/12.
meridian crossroads
1180 N. Eagle Road 208-888-7876 now open at ram pLaZa in Boise!
590 S. Broadway 208-343-4415
www.facebook.com/PBTOfficial @PalmBeachTan
LSTI-31675
internships & paid positions available
show the world your graphic design skills
STUDENT MEDIA
email: jobs@arbiteronline.com
The Arbiter
arbiteronline.com