The Blue & Gray Press

THE

BLUE &GRAY

THE UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON STUDENT NEWSPAPER

February 7, 2019

VOLUME 92 | ISSUE 15

PRESS

SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE

1922

Breaking and entering at Melchers Hall sparks campus-wide conversation about safety concerns Joshua Staley Senior Writer

There was an incident of breaking and entering at Melchers Hall between Sat., Dec. 29 at 3 p.m. and Tue., Jan. 1 at 11:56 a.m. Upon arriving to the scene, UMW Police reported equipment, including digital cameras, laptops, electronic accessories, and an undisclosed amount of cash, were stolen from the building.

The UMW Police, in conjunction with other university police departments in Virginia, are currently investigating the crime as a Grand Larceny. However, according to UMW’s Chief Investigator, Brad Sullivan, UMW is the only jurisdiction actively working on this particular case.

“We work with other jurisdictions around the region to see if they have had any similar incidents or something that may resemble what took place here,” said UMW Chief of Police, Michael Hall. “The investigators swap information back and forth to try and get leads.”

“In situations like this, we sent out a bulletin where, in circumstances like this, we can explain to other agencies what took place here, paying special attention to other universities here in Virginia,” Sullivan said. “If they happen to have the same thing that took place, then we can try and link that back to a lead going from one place to

another.”

These bulletins can be sent either regionally or nationally.

Since the breaking and entering took place over winter break, some students were unaware that it even occurred.

“I had no idea this even happened on campus,” said sophomore biology major, Alexie Burleson. “I think it’s time the school updates their security practices to ensure something like this doesn’t happen again.”

If President Troy Paino’s proposed budget for the upcoming 2019-2020 academic year is approved, additional funding will become available for campus safety with money being allocated to older buildings, Campus Walk, and Double Drive for cameras.

At this time the university does not plan to add cameras to buildings scheduled for oncoming renovations until the time of renovation.

“Safety is paramount. The number one thing we do here is to ensure the safety and well-being of the community,” Chief Hall said. “Any time the university closes for an extended period of time, we become vulnerable because we have so many buildings, so we try to increase patrol during that time.”

Due to these recent events that

highlighted this buildings’ lack of security, Melchers Hall will be the first to receive these security cameras.

“We also, right now, are pending

students to feel discomfort in the past.

“I think in order for Melchers to be safer there should be more lighting,” said Finto. “There are lights in the tunnel area but other than that it is poorly lit.

Walking home from my night class, I hated walking home to Jefferson Hall alone.”

“I believe that the installation of cameras would be a great improvement,” Finto said. “I think they would deter crimes from occurring because the possible criminal would see these cameras •MELCHERS | 2

“I think it’s time the school updates their security practices to ensure something like this doesn’t happen again.”

-Alexie Burleson for additional cameras and [Melchers] is the number one concern right now,” Hall said.

The limited lighting near Melchers, and the surrounding areas, has caused

Over winter break, Melchers Hall was broken into and robbed.

Sophie Ahava / The Blue & Gray Press

UMW community discusses recent Governor Northam scandal HANNAH GALEONE Senior Writer

This week, UMW students and faculty have been reflecting on a photograph from Virginia Governor Ralph Northam’s medical school yearbook. The photo went viral on Friday, Feb. 1, and quickly became a topic of conversation on campus.

The photo in question, which was published on the governor’s page in the 1984 edition of the Eastern Virginia

Medical School yearbook, shows two men, one wearing black-face and the other dressed in the all-white uniform of the Klu Klux Klan, posing next to one another and holding cans of beer.

The same day as the photo was released, Northam made a statement to the public, saying, “I am deeply sorry for the decision I made to appear as I did in this photo and for the hurt that decision caused then and now.” A day later, however, he said that he “did not appear in the photo” but its presence in

his school’s yearbook “didn’t surprise him.” He stated that “many actions that we rightfully recognize as abhorrent today were commonplace [when the yearbook was published].”

“The [UMW] Young Democrats completely and without reservation condemn the racist actions of Governor Ralph Northam,” the campus political group said in a public Facebook post. “...

You have broken the people’s trust and shown yourself unfit to hold office, [and] we call on you to resign your position as Governor.”

There was no post made on the Facebook page of the UMW College Republicans.

Northam has received calls for

resignation at the federal, state and local levels. Currently, Northam has “no plans to resign” and is “evaluating the situation on a ‘minute by minute,’ ‘day by day’ basis,” according to CNN Politics.

“I don’t know whether or not he should resign because it was 35 years ago,” said political science major Alec Marshall.

“I think there should be more of an apology on his part.”

“It’s very [expletive] up,” said psychology major Anthony Lanza. “It’s extremely racist regardless of the fact that it happened years ago. It might not represent his views but it’s definitely representing something horrible that he’s done.”

Faculty and • NORTHAM | 10

“The [UMW] Young Democrats completely and without reservation condemn the racist actions of Governor Ralph Northam.”

-UMW Young Democrats

Virginia Governor Ralph Northam faces calls to resign after a racist photo was found in his yearbook.

Creative Commons

IN THIS

ISSUE

Oscars 2019

New VOICES

CAC SWIMMERS

A preview of the 2019 Oscar best picture nominees.

Student press bill killed in General Assembly.

Two swimmers earn CAC Athlete of the Week.

LIFE | 6

VIEWPOINTS | 4

SPORTS | 3

NEWS

Editors: Meaghan McIntyre & Kate Seltzer | blueandgray.news@gmail.com

Students voice desire to see safety upgrades made on campus

THE

BLUE & GRAY PRESS

MISSION The Blue & Gray Press is published every Thursday in the University Apartments Clubhouse for our university community. The goal of The Blue & Gray Press is to produce high quality and accurate news in a manner compliant with the Society of Professional Journalists ethics code. In its coverage, The Blue & Gray Press strives to highlight the community of the University of Mary Washington, as well as deliver fair and accurate coverage on the issues important to our students.

EDITORS-AT-LARGE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lauren Closs

Associate Editor Ginny Bixby

Managing Editor Ryan Brauch

SECTION EDITORS NEWS Meaghan McIntyre Kate Seltzer

VIEWPOINTS Grace Winfield

LIFE Lucas Burkholder

SPORTS Jack Hagn

ONLINE Ronic Ngambwe Harry Fisher

PHOTO Cayley McGuire

FACULTY ADVISOR Sushma Subramanian

•MELCHERS | 1

The change to Mediterranean food at the Underground has been met with mixed reviews

UMW Dining / Twitter

Campus community responds to new menu at the Underground Olivia BRIDGES Senior Writer

The Underground used to be a hub of student activity with lines stretching out the doors. However, over the past few years, business at the Underground has significantly declined.

According to Rose Benedict, UMW Dining Marketing Manager, the university has employed a several different marketing tactics to increase revenue at the Underground.

“Campus Dining has conducted a variety of promotional and advertising campaigns for the Underground, too many to enumerate here,” Benedict said in an email.

The menu change to Mediterranean food is one of the latest marketing tactics. Campus Dining selected the current menu based off of the customer satisfaction surveys about types of cuisine students would like to have on campus.

According to Benedict, Campus Dining will continue to review the operations of the Underground and monitor student feedback in response to the menu change.

Junior international affairs major Tess Darroch likes the new menu.

“I like that they have more vegetables than other places on campus,” she said. “I like that it has healthier options and a variety of grains besides rice. The meat isn’t dry.”

“Well, this is the first time I’ve tried it, I really enjoy it,” said freshman and biology major Faith St. Clair, who likes the change in menu.

Although St. Clair says she misses the sandwiches from the previous menu, she is for the most part satisfied with the current menu.

St. Clair is not the only student who misses some items from the old menu.

“The red pepper gouda is my favorite thing to get here, if it’s there,” said senior Mary Pagan. “It used to sell out all the time.”

Pagan said the red pepper gouda used to be a campus-wide favorite and people would stand in line for it every Wednesday. Pagan says now it is not of the same quality and it feels like the Underground does not care about presentation.

“They used to serve it with cheesy, garlic-y, toasted pita bread. Now it’s served with a limp, sad piece of pita bread,” said Pagan.

Pagan believes that if the Underground wants to increase student sales, they should return to the classics.

“Mediterranean is already such a distinct food group that many people say they don’t even like,” said Pagan.

“And then you go in the UC and we have our world options. So I don’t know why we need another option for that; we already have Mediterranean at the UC.”

“Campus Dining has conducted a variety of promotional and advertising campaigns for the Underground, too many to enumerate here.”

-Rose Benedict

•UNDERGROUND | 11

CORRECTIONS

and decide not to commit their crime. More blue lights in this area would also help as Melchers feels almost isolated from the rest of campus. It is on the edge of campus and there aren’t typically many other people walking around Melchers as there are walking around the Monroe Fountain or the UC.” The reallocation of blue lights will also be in the works according to Hall.

A new task force is being formed consisting of students, faculty, and emergency management staff members whose priority will be to evaluate the blue lights on campus. With that evaluation, the blue lights that are spread throughout campus unevenly can be relocated to areas where they are lacking.

“The Anderson Center parking lot currently has five or six blue lights in that one parking lot which is too many,” Hall said. “We will evaluate that and say, ‘we only need three there’ and now we have two extras that can be deployed.”

UMW Police have also established new policies that state any new blue lights to come online in the future will have cameras attached.

“This will give additional coverage,” Hall said.

Senior biology major Elizabeth Haden feels that adding cameras around campus is important for increasing overall campus safety.

“I think campus safety is one of the most important factors when choosing a college,” Haden said. “I want to know that there are safety precautions in place that will keep me, and my peers protected. If there aren’t sufficient means to protect my fellow students, that needs to change. Cameras are a necessary addition to UMW to keep their students and faculty safe. People need to know that they will be found and held accountable for any crimes at UMW.” As of now, the breaking and entering case is still pending. UMW Police have a lead, however, that information cannot be disclosed at this time.

Potential future safety renovations that the university are considering involved cameras, and reallocating blue lights.

The Blue & Gray Press

for THE

PLEASE REPORT ANY MISTAKES SEEN IN THE BLUE & GRAY PRESS TO Lauren Closs, blueandgray.eic@gmail.com or Sushma Subramanian, ssubrama@umw.edu

2

SPORTS

UMW swimmers earn CAC recognition

MACKENZIE HARD Staff Writer

received this award.

“I didn’t know that I had won until our coach told me This week senior Jeffrey Leckrone during our meeting. I also and junior Carly Vaughn were named received an email from Dean CAC Swimmers of the Week. Both Richardson congratulating Leckrone and Vaughn have won this title me,” said Vaughn. before through winning events at various Both Leckrone and meets.

Vaughn had a similar Leckrone won several races in the introduction to the sport meet against Gettysburg College on through their parents Saturday, Jan. 26. He placed first in both encouraging them to swim on This is Carly Vaughn’s third CAC honor.

UMW Athletics the 100 yard and 200 yard breaststroke, their school teams. that was going to be it, third in the 100 yard butterfly, and was “I started because my older sister was but my competitiveness got the better part of the winning 400 yard medley swimming on a local summer league of me. I didn’t want to be the slowest relay. team and then I started swimming on it. person on my relies so I started to go to “Getting this award could encourage She got mad when people beat her times club practices. After a few months of you to perform better, but for us there is the following summer so my mom told swimming in high school, I talked to the more when it comes to the conference her that if she swam all year round, then coach here at UMW at the time, Abby, championships. Our team is so dominant she would do better. Since I was also and asked if I could be on the team.” that is not about the team win anymore, swimming, my mom thought that I might CAC Championships start Feb. 14 in it’s more about individual wins. Team as well swim too. I really like swimming St. Mary’s City, Maryland. Both Vaughn wins are great, as both teams have won because when you’re swimming it gives and Leckrone are looking forward to for the last twenty years or so, but getting you a chance to clear your head and just their events at this championship. “I am individual wins can qualify you for swim. I am also really competitive,” said really excited to see how we are going nationals,” said Leckrone.

Vaughn. to do. Everyone is going to swim fast Vaughn won three individual races Leckrone said, “For me, I started with all the work from our new coach and a relay at the same meet, defeating swimming at about the age of three or and with all the added time in the weight Gettysburg. She placed first in the 100 four because my parents made to take rooms and in the pool,” said Vaughn. yard backstroke, while also placing first swim lessons, but then after a few years Leckrone agreed saying, “The men’s in the 100 yard and 200 yard butterfly. of pretty competitive swimming I got team is going to kill it, honestly. There This is the third time that Vaughn has tired of it and so when I was twelve, is a general feeling on the men’s team I just did summer league that the fun doesn’t start until two or free swim two months out of the weeks from conferences, which gives us year until I was a senior in a good projection for how we are going high school. At that point, to do at conferences.

I had lost pretty much When outside of the pool, Vaughn everything that made me enjoys spending time with her friends good at swimming. I had on the team, listening to the music, and had a competitive swimming going to the beach or the river. Leckrone background and I had a said in his free time he has watched the few friends convince me to first six seasons of Game of Thrones swim again senior year just within the last few weeks, but also This is Jeffrey Leckrone’s second honor.

UMW Athletics to wrap it all up. I thought enjoys playing video games with his

Six Nations Championship has begun

FIONA NALEPA Staff Writer

As of Feb. 1, one of the most anticipated European rugby tournaments has kicked off. The Six Nations Championship is an annual rugby competition between the countries of England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, France, and Italy. It will be on all the way until Mar. 16.

It is a competition with a long history; its first tournament started back in 1883.

The Six Nations Championship was originally known as the Home Nations Championship. It was played among four nations: England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Eventually in 1910 the championship became known as the Five Nations Championship because France was added to the roster. The championship became the Six Nations Championship in 2000 with the addition of Italy.

Although the men’s tournament is the most well known and widely broadcasted, there is also a women’s and an under-20s championship. All three tournaments are played on the same weekends throughout February and March.

Communication major Meredith Jennings said, “I am very interested in the women’s rugby part of the Six Nations Championship. I think it is important that they have that kind of representation as well.”

The format of the championship is not complicated. Every game is played like a regular rugby match. There are five

rounds with three games and each team plays every other team only once.

A unique aspect of the tournament is the types of trophies that are awarded. Obviously, the winning team is given the Six Nations Championship trophy. If the winning team has defeated all of The Six Nation Championship trophy. alamy.com the other five teams they are awarded to watch and I’m looking forward to with the Grand Slam title. Additionally, watching the matches on Saturday and the Triple Crown title is awarded if Sunday.” one of the original four Home Unions Ireland won the championship last (England, Ireland, Scotland, or Wales) year in 2018 so there are high hopes defeats all of the other three. for them to win again. All eyes are on There are several smaller trophies England as well since they are the nation that are awarded throughout the with the most wins. competition. Some examples include, the Communication and digital studies Millennium trophy which is awarded to major Nina Bowen said, “I love to watch the winner of the England versus Ireland rugby and I hope that England wins this match. Or the Calcutta cup, which is year since Ireland won last year.” awarded to the winner of the England As of now only the first round of versus Scotland match. A newer rivalry matches have concluded. The first match trophy is the Giuseppe Garibaldi trophy, to kick off the championship was France which is awarded to the winner of the v. Wales. It was a fierce match that ended France versus Italy match. with a Welsh victory over the French.

Historically, England has been the The England v. Ireland match ended in nations with the most wins. Overall, they a win for England. The Scotland v. Italy have won 28 tournaments with 10 of match had a Scottish victory. those being shared wins. Shared wins are The next set of matches starts on when two teams have the same amount Saturday Feb. 9 and goes until Sunday of points. They are followed closely Feb. 10. On Saturday Scotland will face behind by Wales who have achieved 26 Ireland and Italy will face Wales. Sunday wins with 12 of them being shared. Italy will have the match between England is the nation with the least amount of and France, which many people are wins; they have won zero tournaments excited for. since their introduction in 2000.

For us here in the United States all Business administration major Nathan of the matches are being broadcasted on Infanti said, “Rugby is such a great sport NBC.

University of Mary Washington Sports Schedule

Men’s Basketball (15-7)

Nov. 13 W vs. East Mennonite (89-73) Nov. 17 W vs. Guilford (79-77) Nov. 18 W vs. Ferrum (76-60) Nov. 26 L @ Washington and Lee (94-78) Dec. 1 L @ Lynchburg (69-64) Dec. 2 W @ Randolph (75-66) Dec. 5 W @ Va. Wesleyan (99-88) OT Dec. 8 W vs Marymount (Va.) (65-54) Dec. 17 W @ Shenandoah (80-74) Dec. 29 W @ John Carroll (76-64) Dec. 30 L @ Roanoke (83-67) Jan. 2 L @ Frostburg St. (87-77) Jan. 5 W vs. Christopher Newport (69-61) Jan. 9 W vs. Salisbury (84-70) Jan. 12 W @ Penn St.-Harrisburg (69-61) Jan. 16 W @ St. Mary’s (Md.) (79-67) Jan. 19 W vs. York (Pa.) (74-62) Jan. 23 W vs. Southern Virgina (75-73) Jan. 26 L vs. Frostburg St. (90-70) Jan. 30 L @ Salisburg (79-66) Feb. 2 L @ Christopher Newport (80-66) Feb. 6 W vs. St. Mary’s (Md.) (83-72) Feb. 9 vs. Penn St.-Harrisburg Feb. 13 @ Southern Virgina Feb. 16 @ York (Pa.)

Women’s Basketball (10-12)

Nov. 9 L @ Elizabethtown (56-54) Nov. 16 W vs. William Peace (73-43) Nov. 17 L vs. Johns Hopkins (50-47) Nov. 20 W vs. Lynchburg (64-49) Nov. 27 W @ N.C.Wesleyan (83-75) Dec. 1 W @ Meredith (57-50) Dec. 4 L vs. Randolph-Macon (65-60) Dec. 8 L vs. Marymount (Va.) (59-43) Dec. 15 L @ Washington and Lee (67-64) Dec. 18 W vs. Edgewood (55-27) -In San Juan, Puerto Rico Dec. 19 W vs. Va. Wesleyan (63-41) -In San Juan, Puerto Rico Jan. 2 L @ Frostburg St. (54-40) Jan. 5 W vs. Christopher Newport (66-53) Jan. 9 L vs. Salisbury (57-48) Jan. 12 W @ Penn St.-Harrisburg (77-56) Jan. 16 W @ St. Mary’s (Md.) (65-60) Jan. 19 L vs. York (Pa.) (69-64) Jan. 23 L vs. Southern Virgina (66-58) OT Jan. 26 W vs. Frostburg St. (59-45) Jan. 30 L @ Salisbury (49-41) Feb. 2 L @ Christopher Newport (62-42) Feb. 6 L vs. St. Mary’s (Md.) (48-34) Feb. 9 vs. Penn St.-Harrisburg Feb. 13 @ Southern Virgina Feb. 16 @ York (Pa.)

Full Schedule not listed above.

Post season not included.

Bold indicates home game.

3

VIEWPOINTS

General Assembly Committee fails young journalists

Ginny Bixby / The Blue and Gray Press

Advocates for the New Voices Bill.

As a representative for the Blue and Gray Press editorial board, I was asked by the Student Press Law Center to speak in front of the Virginia General Assembly on Jan. 28. I prepared a testimony in support of HB #2382, also known as the New Voices Bill. The bill, which was introduced by former journalist Del. Chris Hurst (D- Blacksburg), was struck down in committee, having tied 3-3. The bill should have passed, and the way it was handled in committee certainly contributed to its failure.

This bill, as introduced to House Education subcommittee #1, was proposed to protect student journalists in public schools and universities from censorship. The bill declared that “except in certain limited circumstances, a student journalist at a public elementary or secondary school or public institution of higher education has the right to exercise freedom of speech and the press

Delegate Hurst (left) with Associate Editor Ginny Bixby (right).

in school-sponsored written testimony GINNY BIXBY media, including was handed out to Associate Editor determining the the delegates, along news, opinion, feature, and advertising with multiple other written testimonies content of school-sponsored media, and letters. The delegates were expected regardless of whether the media is to process this printed material while supported financially by the school spoken testimony was given, and it board, supported through the use of would have been impossible for them to school facilities in the school division, process so much information at one time. or produced in conjunction with a My testimony detailed how the course or class in which the student is Blue & Gray Press was initially denied funding for the 2018-19 school year, enrolled.” Essentially, this bill would but I also focused on the importance prevent students from being penalized of student journalism as a whole, and for publishing anything that school how giving students more freedom to administration may object to, as this publish whatever they have written only would be an infringement on students’ enhances their education. I wrote in my First Amendment rights. testimony, “No student should ever be However, it was decided by afraid to publish anything they have subcommittee chairman Del. Richard written, whether it be a well-researched P. Bell (R- Staunton) that only three opinion piece or a thorough investigative citizens present in support of the bill news story. Universities, and the country could give spoken testimony. I was not included in this group, although my as a whole, should value the freedom of the student press because journalism is a key part of our democracy, and participating in it teaches students important life skills. Students learn how to conduct interviews, carry out extensive investigations, form educated opinions, and write in a professional manner. Student journalists have exposed wrongdoing and enacted positive change in their schools.”

I was frustrated that much of the opposition from the public who were present was centered around the idea that students cannot be responsible journalists because they are too young. One speaker went as far as to say that students are not journalists, which is incredibly ignorant, given the history of student journalists making an impact in this country. After the hearing, Del. Hurst spoke to everyone who came to speak in support of the bill, and was quick to refute this statement, saying, “As soon as you are practicing journalism, you are a journalist.”

Additionally, delegates on the committee brought up questions about how dangerous this bill could be if kindergartners were allowed to publish Ginny Bixby / The Blue & Gray Press whatever they wanted in a student paper.

Frank LaMonte, the SPLC’s senior legal fellow, countered that he had been working in student press law for over thirty years and had never encountered a case of elementary school press censorship, arguing that this was an issue that primarily high school and college students faced.

If Del. Bell, who voted against the bill, had allowed more of us to speak, I believe we would have been able to fully show the human side of this issue.

It is ridiculous that these bills, that take years to work on, are barely given fifteen minutes of time in committee. Over two dozen people traveled from all over Virginia and even across the country to speak in support of this bill, and were not given the chance. The reality is, this issue affects far more than three people. This reflects a larger issue in how our government is run. Legislators are supposed to listen to their constituents, and we were not listened to by all members of this committee.

While the bill did not pass, I was proud to stand among the majority in the room who were in favor of the bill- an incredible group of students, teachers, lawyers, and journalists who work tirelessly to protect our First Amendment rights. I met an amazing UMW alumna who is now a newspaper advisor at a Virginia high school. While it was upsetting to feel that we were not completely heard, it was incredible to spend time with people who have been in the same position I have been in and have the same passion for journalism and the freedom of the press that I do.

Del. Hurst said he plans to work on the bill, which he worked on with co-patron Del. Danica Roem (D- Prince William County), and reintroduce it to the committee next year.

I am grateful for the opportunity to share my voice, even if it was limited, and as Del. Hurst said, we should not be discouraged. We will not let the censors win. Buy a newspaper. Write a letter to your legislator. Journalism is the cornerstone of our democracy, and we cannot be free without it.

Thursday, February 2019 Thursday, January 21, 7, 2015

VIEWPOINTS

Editor: Grace Winfield | blueandgray.views@gmail.com

Pressing questions about future plans cause students more stress

ASHLEIGH GRIM Staff Writer

As soon as I began college, I was pressed to provide answers about internships, jobs and other future plansbut I never felt ready to answer them, or that I had the right answer.

They ranged from, “So what do you want to do?” “Are you going to be a teacher?” and even, “What are you going to do with that?”

I still get inquiries about my future.

When I don’t provide an immediate answer, people almost always seem disappointed. I feel embarrassed and insecure. I feel like I should have my whole life planned out by now, but they also cause a lot of stress because I don’t have anything planned. I started thinking- and stressing- I can barely choose a place to eat for dinner, how am I supposed to have my whole life planned out by now?

According to learnpsychology. org, post-graduate plans are one of the leading factors of stress in college students. Not only is future employment a major concern for college students, the debt of student loans is haunting.

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that 85% of college students have had feelings of being overwhelmed and stressed due to school in the last year.

“I understand that people are curious or genuinely concerned, but unless they are offering help or a job, their constant questions about my future just adds more stress. I am already stressed out enough

trying to manage school and work during my last semester,” said Jasmine Alanis, senior marketing major and digital studies minor.

So many majors have various options when it comes to going into the workforce. Expecting students to pick from so many options while still trying to finish their area of study is an enormous amount of pressure on top of everything else they have to do.

“I get annoyed and then I get embarrassed,” said Carly Hanson, international business major and data science minor. “I have ideas and there are so many things to choose from.”

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York recently did a study of unemployment rates of new college graduates and found that the rates peaked at 4.3%. The research also shows that the longer students are out of college, the lower the unemployment rate goes. The unemployment rate for college graduates in general is only 2.9%.

Even if students don’t get a job immediately out of college, their chances of finding one go up the longer they are out.

While the numbers are down, the search leading up to finding a future career can be quite daunting.

“On the inside I am internally screaming that I have to convince one more person to not worry

about me,” Alanis said. “There is a lot of pressure on me from my parents to go after government jobs, and I am applying for those, but I am also okay with that route not working out. I can’t go one week without being asked what my plans are after college.”

As Alanis said, parents and other friends and family feel the need to push students what they think is best. There is immense pressure to find a job after college, especially jobs in demand and jobs with good pay. And while most students are told to follow their passions, it seems that those who do catch the most criticism.

“I get asked more about what I’m going to do with my history degree. I love history and always have, but when I decided it’s what I wanted to study, I have been asked non-stop about what

I’m going to do with it. To be honest, I do not know,” said Alyx Wilson, junior history major.

“It stresses me out a lot because I was told to go to school for something I like and it’s history. I learned that history majors acquire the skill to write really good papers, which companies look for.

That makes me feel a bit better, but it still stresses me out,” said Wilson.

So much has to be done in the final years of college, that the constant question of future plans is less than helpful to students who don’t have a definite answer at all. Most students can do so much with their degrees that figuring out which job to pick is a challenge in itself. It’s understandable that some worry, but rest assured, students will figure it out.

Think Tank Learning

Staff Ed: Government officials should resign following disturbing blackface photos and sexual misconduct allegations

By THE BLUE AND GRAY PRESS EDITORIAL BOARD Unsettling and disappointing facts from the past have recently resurfaced about three Virginia government officials.

Governor Ralph Northam, Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax, and Attorney General Mark Herring are all receiving demands to resign after their previously racist and sexist behaviors have been brought to light.

On Feb. 1 a conservative news outlet discovered a photo of two individuals dressed in racist attire on Governor Northams medical school yearbook page from his graduation year 1984. One individual is dressed in Ku Klux Klan attire and the other is wearing blackface. The school, Eastern Virginia Medical

School, confirmed the photos authenticity.

Following the release of the photo, Governor Northam released a statement on Friday saying "I am deeply sorry for the decision I made to appear as I did in this photo and for the hurt that decision caused then and now." However less than 24 hours later Northam held a press conference where he said he did not believe he was in the controversial photo. Stating that he would have remembered posing for such a picture, he admitted to darkening his face for a Michael Jackson impersonation contest the same year that the yearbook was published.

Despite a severe drop in his

approval rating, and voters and politicians alike demanding he resign, Northam has shown no indication that he intends to step down from being his position.

As Virginians were trying to process their shock surrounding Governor Northams actions, they were met with two more controversies within the state government. Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax has been accused of sexual assault, a claim which he adamantly denies, and Attorney General Mark Herring has admitted to dressing in blackface as a part of a rapper costume when he was 19.

Lt. Governor Fairfax has stated that the sexual encounter between him and California

university professor Vanessa Tyson 15 years ago was “100 percent consensual.” While Fairfax has asked for his family and Tyson’s family to be respected and given privacy, he has continually stuck to his initial statement that he has nothing to hide.

However, the graphic description of events released

by Tyson on Wednesday, Feb. 6, suggests that the encounter may have started with “consensual kissing” but ended with Fairfax forcing her to perform other actions. Tyson’s depiction of events, along with Lt. Governor Fairfax’s alleged statement of “f–- that b–--,” has garnered a lot of media and public attention. Amidst this controversial issue, on

Wednesday, Feb. 6, Attorney General Mark Herring admitted to using blackface as part of a costume at a party in 1980.

The Blue and Gray Press calls for Governor Ralph Northam, Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax, and Attorney General Mark Herring to all resign from office. Under any and all circumstances, Blackface is deeply offensive and blatantly racist. These officials need to be held accountable for their actions.

In all three instances these politicians showed a level of ignorance that is intolerable and cannot be allowed to go unpunished. Virginians deserve better from our government officials.

5

LIFE

Editor: Lucas Burkholder blueandgray.life@gmail.com

Preview of the 2019 Oscar’s Best Picture Nominees

SEAN MOORE Staff Writer

For students who like to keep an eye on pop culture, winter means awards season, and for movie lovers, no award is talked about more than the Academy Award for Best Picture.

This year eight movies are nominated for the coveted Oscar: “Black Panther,” BlacKkKlansman,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “The Favourite,” “Green Book,” “Roma,” “A Star is Born,” and “Vice.”

“Black Panther” was one of the biggest movies of 2018 and is the first Marvel movie to be nominated for Best Picture. If you haven’t already seen this wildly popular superhero film, it’s available on Netflix now.

“BlacKkKlansman,” a film “Black Panther” stars Chadwick Boseman and Michael B. Jordan.

Marvel based on the true story of an Timothy Simms is personally rooting for give it a watch. nominated but are still worth seeing, Lee African-American police officer from it to win. Simms said, “It’s refreshingly “A Star is Born” is the fourth remake recommends “A Quiet Place” and Simms Colorado and his quest to infiltrate a weird compared to other period pieces of the 1937 film of the same name. This recommends “First Reformed,” “Eighth local chapter of the Klu Klux Klan, and makes a total mockery out of the time around it stars Bradley Cooper and Grade,” and “If Beale Street Could would be acclaimed director Spike Lee’s politics of the time. The three main Lady Gaga and is certainly an emotional Talk.” first Oscar should it win. This film is actresses and their constant scheming are roller coaster. It is also Lee’s dark horse The Oscars air on ABC February 24. definitely worth seeing, especially if you just a joy to watch.” Definitely do not candidate to win Best are a Spike Lee fan who may have been miss this one.

Picture. “It’s authentic, it’s turned off by some of his other recent Both Lee and Simms think that charming, and it’s the sort of releases.

“Green Book,” for better or worse, has a thing that is that’s going to Alexander Lee, a sophomore political strong chance to take home Best Picture. naturally appeal to the folks science and psychology major and It is popular with audiences and has a who actually make the final president of the UMW Film Society, “conventional and Oscar-baity plot,” decision,” Lee said. Even called it one of his personal favorite Simms said. “But, the Academy has if it doesn’t take home the films from last year and would like to picked more unorthodox films for Best Oscar it is definitely still see it take home the Oscar, but does not Picture in the last couple years, so you worth watching, just be sure think that it will. can never really know,” he added. to have a few tissues close “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a biopic “Roma” is what Antonio Barrenechea, by. centered around former Queen frontman associate professor of English and “Vice” is a political Freddie Mercury. Lee does not think instructor of this semester’s Introduction biopic focused on former it is likely to win Best Picture and to Cinema Studies course, calls an Vice President Dick Cheney. was surprised that the film was even “update of what in the Classical It is certainly a polarizing nominated. If you are a Queen superfan Hollywood era was called a ‘woman’s film, with Lee calling it one and want an excuse to sing along to some picture,’ that is, a female-centered of his favorites of last year of their hits then you may want to check melodrama about difficulties in and Simms saying that he this out, but if not, feel free to skip it. the domestic sphere.” Barrenechea did not like at all. As such, it “The Favourite” flew a little under the was most impressed with the film’s probably will not win Best radar, grossing only $27.5 million dollars cinematography and said he would not Picture but is worth a watch domestically, but is certainly worth be surprised to see it win in that category nonetheless, especially watching if you get the chance. Not only but is skeptical about its chances to win if you are interested in is this period comedy-drama set in 18th Best Picture. If it does win it would be politics but are too young century Great Britain nominated for nine the first non-English film to win the to remember or otherwise Oscars, sophomore English major and award. This film is also on Netflix so unfamiliar with the Iraq War. IMDB vice president of the UMW Film Society next time you feel like procrastinating For films that were not “Vice” grossed 53.7 million.

“Roma” grossed 3.3 million.

IMDB

“Green Book” grossed 61.4 million.

IMDB

“BlackKkKlansman” grossed 89.7 million.

IMDB

Thursday, February 7, 2019

LIFE

Service dogs: important members of the UMW community Photo story by Savannah Roberts

Arrow

Owner: Kira Itzkoff Age: 4 years old Type: Half German Shorthair Pointer, Half Boxer, Lab, and Cocker Spaniel Trained to: Detect differences in behavior and changes in blood pressure that Pictured right. indicates oncoming panic attacks.

Favorite Snack: Carrots Itzkoff says that “the hardest part [about having a service dog] is that my disability is invisible, so when I take her places, I feel like people are going to accuse me of being an imposter.” Service dogs have bad days too, and that adds to Itzkoff’s frustration when it comes to training Arrow. Her biggest challenge with Arrow is “being consistent and not letting her say hi to friends with her vest on.”

The best thing about having a service dog for Itzkoff is that “I get to take my best friend everywhere.” Going to new and unfamiliar places means that Arrow gets to tag along, and that relieves a lot of anxiety for Itzkoff.

Itzkoff and Arrow bond over playing fetch. “At home, she loves to wrestle,” said Itzkoff. Arrow loves sitting in people’s laps and following Itzkoff when she’s riding horses.

Hearo

Courtesy of By Kira Itzkoff

Owner: Claudia Woods Age: Almost 2 years old Type: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Trained to: Help Claudia with her hearing impairment and trained to ease anxiety.

Pictured left.

Favorite Snack: Cheese The most difficult part about having a service dog is “the fact that people say he isn’t a service dog,” said Woods. Woods, with an invisible disability, feels like she is “othered” when it comes to Hearo. The hardest thing to do with Hearo, Woods says, is “definitely having to say no, and expecting him to do his tasks.” Hearo has been working with Woods since he was a puppy, and she wishes she could spoil him all the time.

The best thing about having a service dog for Woods is the furry companionship.

“He’s my third leg,” Woods said. She takes him nearly everywhere, including concerts sometimes.

Woods and Hearo bond over food, cuddling, and “doing simple things like bathing him,” she said.

Estrella

Courtesy of By Claudia Woods

Owner: Nicole Taylor Age: 8 months old Type: Lab Golden Cross Trained to: Currently in training with CCI Favorite Snack: String Pictured right. cheese The hardest part about training Estrella is “getting her to understand when she’s on duty and when she’s off duty,” said Taylor. Her vest is used as an association with being on duty, so she always wears her vest while training. The biggest obstacle for Taylor is Estrella’s interactions with the public. Estrella must learn to avoid distractions and she may break her commands if someone approaches her.

The best thing about training Estrella is that “she’s really quick to learn new commands, and she’s enthusiastic about learning something new,” Taylor said. She mentions the value in teaching Estrella commands and being able to see her grow as a service dog.

Taylor and Estrella bond through playing tug-of-war. Also, they bond through learning new things together. “Not only is she learning it, but I’m also learning how to reinforce it,” Taylor said.

Canine Companions for Independence (CCI) is a national organization with a chapter on UMW’s campus that raises puppies to become service dogs. Autumn Fleming, the CCI president, said that puppy raisers learn a basic set of 35 commands to teach the puppy-in-training before the pup is transferred to “big boy training”. The CCI’s next event is going to be a dog walk on Ball Circle on March 23rd. All dogs are invited, as long as they come with a leash.

Courtesy of Nicole Taylor

7

Weekend Events Thursday • Between a Rock and a Hard Place: A discussion on the Slave Auction Block @ UC Chandler Ballroom, 6 p.m.

• Great Lives: Jane Goodall @ Dodd Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

Friday • The Hate U Give @ Monroe 116, 7 p.m.

• BlacKkKlansman @ Monroe 116, 10 p.m.

Saturday • BlacKkKlansman @ Monroe 116, 7 p.m.

• The Hate U Give @ Monroe 116, 10 p.m.

CONNECT WITH US NOW ON SNAPCHAT AS WELL The Blue & Gray Press

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LIFE

Ariana Grande goes public with her mental health struggle DRE CHANDLER Staff Writer

Ariana Grande, pop singer and 2018’s Billboard Woman of the Year, has had an amazing 2019. With two number one single debuts on the Billboard hot 100 under her belt, this year looks promising for her career. However, Grande has not always been so fortunate. On May 22, 2017, there was a terrorist attack at her concert, causing 22 casualties and injuring 500 more. On top of that, in 2018, her ex-boyfriend Mac Miller died of an overdose. For a while the

singer was very tight-lipped about these incidents, but lately she has been vocal about how therapy has played a huge role in helping her recovery and dealing with her anxiety.

She has now spoken publicly about the guilt she felt following the bombings and Miller’s death, even dedicating a whole album to the anxiety she felt.

More recently, on Nov. 5 she tweeted, “...in all honesty therapy has saved my life so many times. if you’re afraid to ask for help, don’t be. u don’t have to be in constant pain & u can process trauma. i’ve got a lot of work to do but it’s a start

Ariana Grande has helped remove the stigma around talking about mental health issues.

to even be aware that it’s possible.”

What can hold people like Grande back from immediately seeking therapy is the stigma around it. According to a 2006 study, students cited embarrassment as the number one reason someone wouldn’t seek help. Specifically, only 23 percent would be comfortable with a friend knowing they were getting help for emotional issues. Students also might not seek help because of concerns over confidentiality and finances and the fear that accepting they’re struggling will mean they can’t lead a productive life.

Such concerns cause students to keep their emotional troubles to themselves, reinforcing the stigma and making life far more difficult than it needs to be.

As college students, we are at the age where we are exposed to many things that trigger depression and anxiety. During college, students deal with a large amount of stressors.

College calls for a significant transition where students Billboard

encounter new changes to their lifestyle, friends, roommates, exposure to new cultures and different or sometimes opposing ways of thinking. When students can’t manage these firsts adequately and effectively, they’re more likely to struggle. Feelings of inadequacy can stem from academic stressors. In college, competition is much more significant. Some feel the pressure to do well, whether the demands come from parents, the student, or future internships/ career fields.

For students struggling with anxiety and depression, the best place to start is the Talley Center. If you do not feel comfortable with using services from the school, get a referral for a therapist in the community or speak with an approachable professor, career counselor or resident assistant. While waiting for treatment, work on coping skills, know your personal limits when it comes to social involvement, get sleep, start a healthier diet, and avoid excessive caffeine. Finding a healthy and productive outlet is also very helpful in dealing with mental health, whether it be writing, working out, or anything in between.

Knowing that anybody from superstars like Ariana Grande to your classmates and friends can struggle with mental health issues shows what a universal issue this can be. Mental health concerns are no different from any other physical health concerns.

People suffering from mental illnesses did not choose this, and it is important to remember that.

Netflix and Chill: Movies NOT to watch on a date

Whether it be intense war movies, gory horror films, children’s classics or tear-jerkers, some great movies are not meant for date night. Watch out before putting on these movies off the “critically acclaimed” or “popular” lists on your favorite streaming service.

1. “Saving Private Ryan”

6. “Silence of the Lambs”

2. “Marley and Me”

7. “Bambi”

submitted by Jack Hagn, Sports Editor submitted by Ryan Brauch, Managing Editor

3. “The Fly” (1986)

submitted by Harry Fisher, Online Editor

4. “Gone Girl”

submitted by Lucas Burkholder, Life Editor

5. “Inglorious Basterds”

submitted by Kate Seltzer, News Editor

submitted by Grace Winfield, Sports Editor submitted by Lauren Closs, Editor-in-Chief

8. “All the President’s Men”

submitted by Ginny Bixby, Associate Editor

9. “Velvet Buzzsaw”

submitted by Ronic Ngambwe, Online Editor

10. “Apocalypse Now”

submitted by Lucas Burkholder, Life Editor

9

NEWS POLICE BEAT MEAGHAN MCINTYRE & KATE SELTZER News Editors

Vandalism On Saturday, February 2 between 10 p.m. and 11:41 p.m., a fire exit sign was vandalized in Randolph Hall. This investigation is pending.

Petit Larceny Between January 30 at 9:00 a.m. and February 3 at 9:00 a.m., a computer drive was stolen from Monroe Hall.

This case is pending.

Hit and Run Between Friday, January 25 at 9:30 p.m. and Saturday, January 26 at 12:03 p.m., there was a hit and run that caused vehicle damage in the William St. lot. This case is currently pending.

On February 1 between 12:50 p.m. and 2:45 p.m., there was a hit and run where the driver failed to report on Thornton St. and College Ave. This case is pending.

Students and faculty react to a slew of controversies among Virginia state leadership •NORTHAM | 1

staff have also state. The population that would be is still “clinging to his job” and has not expressed their sympathetic to the traditional Virginia addressed the numerous calls for his reactions to Northam’s photograph narratives isn’t as dominant as it once resignation from both of the political and his statements that he will not be was.” parties. resigning.

As “This is clearly a major problem the state Editor’s “I think we should view him for the governor,” said political government Update differently, but I don’t think we science Professor Stephen Farnsworth. and Lieutenant “Virtually every Democrat in Virginia Governor Governor should be forcing him to has said he needs to go, and in the Northam Justin Fairfax resign for a mistake he made has been days since that photo first emerged take into there really hasn’t been any kind of account the accused of as a college student.” reconsideration by the Democrats. So, potential sexual assault. the Governor’s position within his own for his In a private party is very problematic.” resignation, meeting, he - Tucker Gorski Farnsworth said that Northam’s UMW said of his decision to apologize for being in the students accuser “f--photo on Friday and then deny his have voiced their array of opinions on that b----”, according to NBC News. appearance in it on Saturday is a cause Northam’s actions and whether or not On Wednesday, Attorney General Mark for concern. he should resign.

Herring, third in the line of succession “The way that the governor has “I don’t think that it should be for Virginia’s governorship, admitted handled this is a case study in how not held against him for the purpose of he too had worn blackface as a 19 year to manage a crisis,” said Farnsworth. resigning,” said marketing major old college student in 1980.

“If the governor was going to deny Tucker Gorski.

“I think the odds are better than having anything to do with the picture, Students have also commented on they were a few days ago that Gov. that’s the story he should have told Northam’s appearance to the public Northam will be able to stay in office,” the first day.

Farnsworth said. “With [This has] all three statewide really created “If the governor was going to deny having anything to elected officials facing a significant scandals this do with the picture, that’s the story he should have told the major credibility week, the Democrats first day. [This has] really created a significant credibility do not want them all to problem for him.” resign and turn power problem for him.”

According over to the Republican to Farnsworth, Speaker of the House.”

Virginia’s Republican -Dr. Stephen Farnsworth demographic Delegate Kirk Cox changes and is next in line for attempts to move away from its racist and how the photograph will impact governor after the lieutenant governor history may result in a population less his reputation with the community. and attorney general. inclined to tolerate Northam’s past.

“I think we should view him “These developments have “It’s important to recognize that this differently, but I don’t think we should increased the chances that the may be the start of a pretty significant be forcing him to resign for a mistake Republicans will be able to retain their reconsideration of a lot of Virginia’s he made as a college student,” said narrow majorities in the House of history,” said Farnsworth. “Virginia Gorski.

Delegates and the Senate of Virginia is in the process of redefining itself “Whether he resigns or not, it will this year, as a party in meltdown – as because there are so many different definitely have an effect on his public the Democrats are right now – is hardly narratives about what Virginia is. image,” said economics major Max able to recruit top-tier candidates Virginia has more people who were Schultz. and excite the party’s donors,” said born out-of-state than were born inAs of this week, Governor Northam Farnsworth.

Students participate in discussion about mass incarceration and UMW’s inmate made furniture

Ava Robb-McCord Staff Writer

UMW students and members of the Fredericksburg community gathered in the Chandler Ballroom on Jan. 30 for the event “This is America: The Effects of Mass Incarceration & How We Contribute to it.” Student leaders Milen Mehari of African Student Union, Christopher Williams of the James Farmer Multicultural Center and Xan Mead from Feminists United facilitated the meeting. The event was open to all community members interested in learning more about mass incarceration in Virginia and how individuals and UMW can work together to make a positive difference.

In addition, representatives from two local organizations, Fail Safe ERA and Optimal Health Enterprise, were also in attendance. Both organizations educate and help marginalized community members overcome and reintegrate into society after incarceration.

The United States has the highest number of men, women and children in correctional institutions in the world. For an African-American male born in 2001, the likelihood of being imprisoned is 1 in 3, while the likelihood for Latino men is 1 in 6 and white men is 1 in 17. These statistics illustrate the disproportionate incarceration

“Implicit bias is instilled in our community and I see it every day.”

-Destiny Jordan

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•THIS IS AMERICA | 11

The “This is America: The Effects of Mass Incarceration & How We Contribute to it” event was co-sponsored by ASU and JFMC. Milen Mehari

Thursday, February 7, 2019

NEWS

Event educates UMW community about discrimination

•THIS IS AMERICA | 10

rates among minority communities throughout the nation.

As a discussion-based event, those in attendance had the opportunity to collaborate in individual groups about how their lives are impacted by incarceration and what steps can be taken to bring change and awareness to the community.

UMW sophomore and psychology major, Destiny Jordan, thinks more needs to be done to combat the biases towards African-Americans and minority groups both on and off campus.

“The social structure in America is created to outcast us,” she said.

“Implicit bias is instilled in our community and I see it every day.”

Bringing awareness and offering a space for open and informative communication about the high rate of minority imprisonment was the goal of the event, according to Milen Mehari, senior English and gender studies major.

One of the central issues of the event was UMW’s continued purchase and use of desks, chairs and furniture produced by inmates in Virginia

prisons. An informative pamphlet jobs produce goods or services for the community and get people involved which senior Milen Mehari created sale to state agencies and other entities in the cause. We need individuals to for the discussion is quoted stating: within government that are supported be aware of the discrimination and “Incarcerated individuals working in in part or whole by funds of the stigmatization that minorities face Virginia prisons are paid 0.27 to 0.80 Commonwealth.” every day.” cents per hour.”

“Nowhere in the integral community Each panel member emphasized Virginia state values of UMW does this practice the importance of education and law mandates make sense,” said senior sociology exercising individuals’ rights to vote in that public major Ashton Ledbetter. “I had no idea state and general elections. “By being universities acquire I was sleeping on a bed made from an informed citizen, you can be an their furniture exploited prison labor.” informed voter and make your voice from Virginia Following small discussions, the heard for changes that you believe in,” Correctional meeting invited Paulette Johnson and said Oliver Johnson of Fail Safe ERA. Enterprises Oliver Johnson from Optimal Health “It is important to get to know (VCE). However, Enterprise, as well as Doug Taylor and those around you and be a part of the UMW frequently Juanita Shanks from Fail Safe ERA to community in which you engage with looks for other lead a conversation panel and answer all the time,” said senior international opportunities questions. business major Kelcie Macomber. “We to purchase One question asked from the don’t always know how people are furniture and audience was by a UMW student impacted by our words and actions and is exempted from the requirement who wanted to know what the panel that is something to be more aware of.” in special circumstances. For At the end instance, VCE cannot always of the event, accommodate a need for attendants were “We need to help educate the interchangeability of furniture encouraged community and get people involved in the from dorm to dorm. to do further “We have typically received on cause. We need individuals to be aware of the research VCE releases for our residence their own. discrimination and stigmatization that life furniture (beds, dressers, Recommended etc.) based on need for texts included minorities face every day.” interchangeability,” said Patricia “The New Canciglia, senior contractor of Jim Crow” procurement services. When

by Michelle - Doug Taylor possible, UMW does not Alexander and use furniture from Virginia “Just Mercy” Correctional Enterprises. members first step would be in prison by social activist Bryan Stevenson.

According to the Virginia reform.

In addition, the Netflix documentary Correctional Enterprises website: “Education,” Doug Taylor “13th” was on the list as a source for “Inmates working for VCE in prison answered. “We need to help educate more information about prison reform.

“I had no idea I was sleeping on a bed made from exploited prison labor.”

- Ashton Ledbetter

Students lament loss of programming and food at the Underground •UNDERGROUND | 2

Pagan wants a place on campus where she can access classic American-styled cuisine.

Sixth year senior and religious studies major Christopher Larimer said he does not think the menu is the only cause of the lack of student activity at the Underground.

According to Larimer, the shift in student activity began his junior year in 2016 when the Underground stopped using the entertainment organization Giant.

“Giant was an organization that brought concerts,” said Larimer. “It provided entertainment. Basically every Friday on this campus there was something. They did extravagant things for the campus.”

According to Larimer, who is also a Fredericksburg native, not only has the Underground turned into what he now calls a study space, the environment and level of activity at the university has changed. Larimer attributes the current atmosphere to the lack of university funds to give to the student run organization.

“A lot of my friends worked for the organization, and that’s why it bothers me so much to think about,” said Larimer “It was student run, it was done for the students, by the students.”

According to Assistant Director for Student Involvement, Alec Mallmann, Giant was a student club that was absorbed by Campus Programming Board in the 2013-2014 academic

Thursday, February 7, 2019

school year. is subject to change if it does not help According to Mallmann, when “CPB oversees Giant and Reel increase revenue for the Underground. the University Center opened, the Deals and all of those things that used However, even if the current menu Underground didn’t serve food for an to separate are now just one thing. So does not increase student activity, the entire year. It was exclusively open for they still have concerts down there that Underground will not face potential events such as Bingo, open mic nights, Giant used to do in and concerts. the Underground or Now that the Underground “I know it’s basically been changing the Bingo that was serves food, when student run by, it is now all organizations reserve the space drastically from almost semester to run by CPB,” said they can only reserve the stage semester since I’ve been here. So I think a lot because students need to have Mallmann.

In addition access to tables; however, of the problem is that consistency.” to the change in there are a few exceptions. campus activity For example, the Swing Club both Larimer and hosts their annual dance at - Alec Mallmann Pagan believe the the Underground and they are previous marketing allowed to utilize the entire strategies to space. revive the Underground were not as closure.

“I know it’s basically been changing the university promised, like the beer “If they stop serving food, we will drastically from almost semester to promotion at the Underground. still be open for other things and allow semester since I’ve been here. So “When they said that they were I think a lot of the problem is that clubs to more freely be able to bring in going to start making the beer for the consistency,” said Mallmann. food from outside,” said Mallmann. students of the campus, where is it?” asked Pagan.

The Underground does not start serving beer until after five and students must be over 21 years old in order to buy a beer.

The manager of the Underground was unable to be reached for comment.

The beer promo is one of many menu changes employed to bring more students to the Underground.

According to Benedict’s email, in the spring of 2018, the Underground served pub-style food. The menu switched again in the fall of 2018 to a The Underground is known for hosting events like bingo and various concerts. deli-style menu.

The Blue & Gray Press The current Mediterranean menu

11

SPORTS

Editor: Jack Hagn | blueandgray.sports@gmail.com

NFL offseason brings decisions for free agent players

reset his roster with new talent Eagles have stated numerous times that across the board. Overall, Bell they have no plans to trade Foles, all would provide any offense with things have a price, and some teams have With the 2018 season in the rear view an efficient and elusive tailback the means to find it. The Broncos pose mirror, NFL teams must look to make that would force defenses to as a team that could use the expertise of changes to prepare for the 2019 season. stop the run in a league that puts Foles. With the defensive line of Bradley From the Super Bowl champions the emphasis more and more on Chubb and Von Miller, the Broncos New England Patriots, to the lackluster throwing the ball. need only an offense with some spark Arizona Cardinals, every team in the “I’d love to see Le’veon in to become a postseason threat. Case NFL will need to adjust their roster Green Bay, maybe then they Keenum could not get the job done, it in an attempt to compete for the next could get back to the playoffs.” Earl Thomas was also denied a contract. may be time for head coach Vic Fangio espn.com Lombardi trophy. One way teams can do said freshman Keelin O’Hara. to find a quarterback with experience this is through free agency and offseason Joe Flacco, Quarterback, Le’veon Bell were in similar positions at and skill, which is just what Foles has. trading. The appeal here is that they (Baltimore Ravens) the beginning of the season. Both wanted In New York, the Giants are beginning would gain a proven veteran that knows Baltimore’s decision to move on to contract with big money, and both were to realize that Eli Manning is not his what it takes to be in the NFL, rather rookie Lamar Jackson in Week 11 was denied by their teams. The difference? brother, and they may need to look for than an untested rookie. Now let’s take the final nail in Flacco’s coffin. After 11 Thomas suited up this season, something someone else to take the reigns. Signing a look at the biggest names that will be seasons in Baltimore, the former Super that he surely regrets now. After breaking Foles could give them an experienced looking for a new home for next season.

Bowl MVP will need to be traded or his leg against the Cardinals in Week 4 quarterback that could help the teams released, as his contract of the regular season, Thomas flipped the competitiveness while they groom a extends until 2022. As Seattle sideline the bird, culminating all quarterback from this years draft. The a proven postseason his frustrations into a single expression.

Redskins could also make a play for passer, Flacco will Now headed into free agency, and with the backup of their division rivals, with be in high demand as no intentions of signing with Seattle, Foles bringing postseason experience many teams will be Thomas is one of the biggest stars and a cool head to a team that looked looking for someone looking for a new team this summer. so hot before the loss of their QB1. It with experience at the Thomas hasn’t hid his top choice for is time for Foles to get what is his, a games most important long, calling out the Cowboys to trade starting job on an NFL team, not playing role. The Dolphins and for or sign him. Dallas is in the position backup to a constantly injured Carson Jacksonville Jaguars financially to add Thomas and boost Wentz. are most likely to make an already dominate defensive unit.

“Foles would be great because then a move for the veteran Similarly, the Cardinals look like they he could beat Wentz instead of being his could make a run at the three time Allbackup,” said freshman Brittany Backus. espn.com quarterback, as the Le’veon Bell had problems with his contract.

Jaguars have moved Pro. Richard Sherman, a former Le’veon Bell, Running Back, on from Blake Bortles, and Tannehill teammate of Thomas, has made it (Pittsburgh Steelers): has been mediocre at best for one of the clear he would not mind joining The drama surrounding Bell and the league’s most inconsistent teams. Last back up with another member of Steelers this past season was anything year the Jaguars stout defense and sturdy Seattle’s “Legion of Boom.” The but private. Bell’s wish for a big contract running game made them a favorite to Chiefs also pose an interesting with a large payday went unfulfilled by return to the postseason, before injuries choice, as they had been attempting the Steelers, resulting in a holdout in and poor quarterback play tanked their to clear up cap space to trade for which Bell did not set foot on the field season. The Dolphins had one of the Thomas prior to his injury. The at all. Now a free agent, Bell has the eye most whiplash-inducing seasons as they Chiefs, whose defense ranked thirty espn.com of many teams looking for one of the routinely bounced from win to loss, first in total defense, could use the Antonio Brown wants to leave the Steelers. league’s best in a demanding position. playing poorly against mediocre teams six time Pro-Bowler to help plug the Antonio Brown, Wide Receiver, The New York Jets ranked twenty sixth and then beating this year’s Super Bowl holes in a defense that couldn’t seem to (Pittsburgh Steelers) in rushing yards last season. Isaiah champions in Week 14 against New stop anyone. The issue facing Thomas The three B’s of Pittsburgh look to Crowell did not provide the ground game England. The Washington Redskins offer now is not if he will get the money he be no more. With Bell on his way out in New York had hoped for, meaning they a different option for Flacco. Flacco’s wants, but rather who will he get it from? free agency, and Brown unhappy with are likely in the market for a good RB1 turbulent 2018 season mixed with his “We already have Sherman so we the Steelers organization, Pittsburgh’s to support quarterback Sam Darnold subpar campaigns since his 2012 Super should get Thomas too so Josh doesn’t big three may have had their last season next season. Similarly, the Green Bay Bowl win leave teams wondering; which have to do everything,” said freshman together. Brown is the undisputed best Packers have lacked any real semblance Flacco is in the NFL now? With Alex Alberic Karina-Plun. wideout in the NFL and any team would of a run game in the past couple of Smith most likely missing the 2019 jump at the chance to bring him in. The years, finishing twenty second and season, Flacco and the Redskins Browns pose an interesting choice. With seventeenth in rushing yards the past could sign a single year deal where $80 million in projected cap space and two seasons. The addition of Bell would Flacco could play in a team and 12 draft picks, Cleveland could make a give Green Bay a clear RB1 with the show that he is still deserving of a sweet deal to bring Brown to the Rock ability to relieve some of the pressure starting spot, while the Redskins and Roll Capital of the World. The from quarterback Aaron Rodgers and wait for more information on their Raiders could also pose as a good spot help balance the offense. Miami could QB1. Wherever Flacco lands, he for Brown. They have already brought also make a good home for the elusive will be sure to bring a vast amount in one discontented Pittsburgh receiver tailback. Tannehill’s tenure with the of knowledge and experience at a in Martavis Bryant, and have the draft Dolphins could be coming to an end, and position that requires large quantities picks to coax Mike Tomlin into letting head coach Brian Flores could look to of both. espn.com Brown switch to the West Coast. The Nick Foles has carried the eagles as a backup.

“Flacco is Colts are in desperate need of offensive so inconsistent he’d Nick Foles, Quarterback, weapons for Andrew Luck to throw to, fit well in Miami.

(Philadelphia Eagles) as tight end Eric Ebron and running back A disappointing Nick Foles is a starting quarterback T.Y. Hilton pose as the only significant quarterback for a plain and simple. Two years in a row the receiving threats on the team. Brown is disappointing team,” Eagles have relied on him to carry them worth whatever price it would take to said freshman Hannah through the playoffs, and both time he bring him in, and it’ll be exciting to see Goad. has delivered, first with a Super Bowl, how many teams make a play for the Earl Thomas, Free and then with a near loss to the NFC’s four time All-Pro. Safety, (Seattle second best team, the New Orleans “Brown should be on the Browns Seahawks) Saints. It is time for Foles to get the because it’s literally his name,” said Earl Thomas and starting position he deserves. While the freshman Sean Ellis. espn.com Joe Flacco was replaced in week 11 by Lamar Jackson.

SAMUEL WEINSTEIN Staff Writer

Club Sports Scoreboard Club Field Hockey Feb. 16 @ Virgina Commonwealth University TBA Thursday, February 7, 2018

Club Women's Soccer Feb. 16 vs. Longwood University TBA

Club Quidditch Feb. 16 @ University of Virgina TBA 12