The Blue & Gray Press

THE

BLUE &GRAY

PRESS

February 11, 2021

VOLUME 94 | ISSUE 2

1922 Online learning leads to significant increase in cheating

THE UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON STUDENT NEWSPAPER

SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE

Laura Castrejon Staff Writer

In the beginning of the spring 2020 semester, one student was failing their Latin 202 class, despite their best efforts.

“Before we went online I was failing the class, going to tutoring twice a weekonce with the professor of the class and once with an actual tutor. I was putting in a lot of effort but it wasn’t helping at all. It was also my last semester and I was starting to get worried that I wouldn’t be able to graduate because I would fail this one class, a class that didn’t actually have anything to do with my major, and it was really stressing me out,” the student, who asked not to be named, said.

But then, just days after students returned from spring break, COVID-19 hit. Students were sent home and classes were shifted to an online format.

Suddenly, an opportunity appeared for this student to pass.

“I decided to cheat for my Latin 202 class during the March-May 2020 time frame. When we switched to online I felt so relieved because I was able to use online resources to help me do my weekly quizzes and the final. If it wasn’t for us going online I wouldn’t have passed the class. I feel bad about it, because I’m definitely not the type of person that likes to cheat, but I did what I had to do in order to pass,” said the student.

And this student is not alone. A recent survey of 80 UMW students conducted by The Blue & Gray Press found that over half of respondents had cheated at least once since the switch to online learning in March 2020. About 28 percent of respondents had cheated four

In Nov. 2020, students painted the front of the rock to showcase virtual honor week events.

Jess Kirby / The Blue & Gray Press

or more times since March.

The UMW Honor Council has also seen an increase in cheating.

“We have seen a small expected increase in reports of plagiarism and cheating this academic year compared to previous years. Most of these are open cases so I can not speak freely about them. We are resolving these situations through the expedited process where appropriate and this has meant that this process is being used a lot. Plagiarism and cheating are actually easier to spot because many of the sources used are online and easily searchable,” said Nina Burges, Honor Council president.

Nearly three quarters of respondents also said their professors have given open note tests and quizzes in order to combat cheating.

“I don’t have any issues with cheating as all of my exams and quizzes are open book. I value the quality of academic

writing and following instructions more.

To combat cheating, I don’t assign any memorization quizzes and give more open note tests,” said Dr. Suzie Kim, assistant professor of art history.

Burges said the increase in open note assessments has affected the types of cases that reach the Honor Council.

“With professors assigning more open book tests, there are more plagiarism cases than exam cheating cases and no stealing/lying cases because the residence halls are quieter for the most part,” said Burges.

According to a survey by Wiley in May 2020, 93 percent of professors feel students are more likely to cheat online than in-person.

Survey respondents also discussed the impact of final exams.

“Every professor I had was super understanding. They made all the tests and quizzes open notes. I would only

resort to cheating if I felt like I couldn’t pass on my own. Some professors take note of that and do everything in their power to help us succeed. When professors take this extra step, I’m not worried about cheating on other assignments that aren’t open notes.

Because I know they will do anything in their power to ensure that I won’t fail,” said one student on The Blue & Gray Press survey.

However, many students, including about 44 percent of respondents, strongly believe in the Honor Code and have never cheated.

“I have not cheated at all this semester. I’m on the Honor Council here at UMW and I think personal integrity is worth so much more than a better grade on an exam. Obviously, I’ve been tempted. It would be so easy to just open up my notebook and look at what I have written down but I see my professors (most of them) trying their hardest to make things easier for us and I feel like it would be disrespectful not only to them but also to my education to cheat,” said Hope Mills, Honor Council director of community service.

Junior Jean Mondoro agrees.

“I did not cheat, and quite frankly the reasoning behind that is that my conscience wouldn’t let me. My professors were much more lenient with quiz and test restrictions. They were also very clear about what was allowed and what wasn’t. I think that overall, professors were clear about their expectations while also being sympathetic to the unusual semester and individual situations,” said Mondoro, a music and communication and digital studies student.

As campus aims to be more sustainable, students struggle with proper recycling procedures

Tamara Omer Staff Writer

efforts. The campaign will give students the opportunity to cut down on disposable waste.

UMW is making efforts to become more “We would have reusable containers, environmentally sustainable through the food and possibly beverage, that would Choose to Reuse campaign and is looking be purchased using flex dollars,” said to educate students on what can and cannot Schneider. be recycled. But despite UMW’s efforts, Guests would exchange their container students often do not follow recycling for a new one when returning back for their guidelines, and some are confused about next meal. what and where they are able to recycle.

The campaign will largely be the same UMW Dining has made an effort to as the Choose to Reuse campaign that was educate students on how to reduce food held in prior semesters, though there may be waste. some change to come.

“We do give out tips about reducing food “With COVID, the program may alter waste, and we’ve encouraged students to slightly to accommodate the new norms, but bring reusable bags to the Top of the UC so in theory would be the same,” Schneider they can put their carry-out containers in said.

“When we see some sort of normalcy, them instead of plastic bags,” said UMW we look forward to re-engaging with the Dining’s general manager David Schneider.

President’s Council on Sustainability and “This spring we partnered with General With the launch of the annual Choose to Reuse campaign, UMW is aiming to be more environmentally other student groups focused on common Mills again and distributed about 250 more sustainable.

Emily Warren / The Blue & Gray Press sustainability goals.” reusable bags.”

First-year student Asa Iem started noticing the In addition to giving tips on reducing waste and their the plastic utensils at the Top of the UC. mistakes that people make on campus while disposing use of reusable bags, UMW Dining has also cut down In a couple of weeks, UMW dining is planning of waste and recyclables when she plastic waste by using containers that are recyclable or to launch their Choose to Reuse campaign and are started working as a student facilities •RECYCLING | 7 compostable, and are continuing to find alternatives to looking into ways to increase other environmental

IN THIS

ISSUE

Virtual COncert

Spring concert to take place over Zoom.

LIFE | 5

Language Matters Labeling the Jan. 6 rioters “terrorists” a political move.

VIEWPOINTS | 3

Sports Betting New Virginia law allows gambling on sports.

SPORTS | 8

NEWS

Editors: Jess Kirby & Josephine Johnson | blueandgray.news@gmail.com

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 Kate Seltzer

Associate Editors Abigail Buchholz Cosima Pellis

SECTION EDITORS NEWS Jess Kirby Josephine Johnson

VIEWPOINTS Abigail Weber

LIFE Erin Matuczinski

SPORTS Victoria Percherke

ONLINE Samantha Price Bernadette D’Auria

PHOTO Bryanna Lansing

FACULTY ADVISOR Sushma Subramanian

Cold, dark, lonely: students recount their quarantine dorm experiences

Tabitha robinson Staff Writer

Mary-Elise Alworth, a sophomore political science major, spent time with two of her friends on Saturday, Oct. 24. The following Monday she tested positive for COVID-19. Within two hours, she and her friends were moved to quarantine and isolation spaces on campus.

“I got an email from the surveillance testing. They said you’ve been randomly selected to come in on Monday. So I went in on Monday, got tested, felt fine—no symptoms…They called me back when I got my result, and the person was like, ‘Are you feeling okay? You tested positive,’” said Alworth. “A lot of things were running through my head: I feel fine.

How long have I had it? How many people have I given it to? Are the tests accurate? I didn’t want to go home because my mom is immunocompromised. So I packed up my stuff.

My roommate and other friend went to Marshall to quarantine and I went to South Hall for isolation.”

Alworth said her main struggle was loneliness. “I was the most anxious I’ve ever been, just because I was alone—completely alone. That was really hard for me to deal with. I’m an introvert, so I thought it would be fine. Then I got there, and I was like, ‘I cannot do this.’ I don’t think there was anybody else living in that building at the time, or at least it didn’t feel like it!

It was also very hard for me to focus on my assignments and go to Zoom class and pay attention.”

Freshman Kate Flowers, who was in contact with Alworth that Saturday, was put into a quarantine dorm in Marshall Hall, which she described as “creepy, lonely, smelly, and kind of anxiety-inducing.”

She said her life there was “repetitive—what do you do in there for fourteen days? You get up, take a shower, eat, maybe go to class? I had Val next door, so that helped a little bit. We sat in our doorways about 20 feet apart and talked to each other.

One of my professors checked on me, which was really sweet. She was really understanding.”

Alworth’s roommate, Val Ortiz, a sophomore biochemistry major, agreed that being in Marshall was a lonely experience. “It was really sad. Time did go by fast because I had classes and a lot of work to get done, but I remember on the second or third day I was really emotional. I just kept thinking about how careful Mary-Elise and I had been and it just didn’t make sense.”

The social isolation and loneliness left them with a lot of time to think.

“The amount of unknowns—I just couldn’t wrap my head around it. Because we know so little about [COVID-19], I had so many questions, and I think that just overwhelmed me,” Alworth said.

Mary-Elise Alworth was placed in an isolation room in South Hall after testing positive for COVID-19.

Photo courtesy of Mary-Elise Alworth

Ortiz described her room as dark.

“The light was like a hospital light. It was really cold in there so Betsy (the COVID care coordinator) brought me a space heater. And I did have a window, which I opened throughout the day to get some air. I hate being by myself, so if I had to stay in that building for nine more days, it would not have been great for my mental health.”

Three days later, Alworth got tested again and found out that she’d had a false positive. After three and a half days in quarantine and isolation, all three students tested negative and moved out.

“If I had gone home, I would’ve been even more anxious about potentially giving my parents COVID, so I’m really thankful that I was able to stay on campus, even though it was not the greatest experience,” said Alworth.

Betsy Southern is the COVID-19 care coordinator, but students call her the quarantine mom.

“I manage all the quarantine and isolation spaces on campus,” she said.

“When a student is identified to go into either quarantine or isolation, I call them and set them up in their room, or give them the option to go home. I’d say 50 percent stay. I work with Chris Porter and Sodexo to get them menus, but most of it is helping them move in. I have four assistants who are also students.”

Her assistants help with laundry, food delivery and everything in between.

The students see Southern as a bright spot in the quarantine experience.

“The quarantine mom—Betsy— she’s very nice. She let my sister bring me a coffee; she would check on us and make sure we were doing okay,” Flowers said.

Alworth agreed. “Betsy would text me asking me how I’m doing

and she or a volunteer would drop off my meals every day. I would get one delivery every evening around 4-5 and it would have my dinner and my breakfast and lunch for the next day. They’d send you an email with a Google form and you’d pick what you wanted. You could get desserts and snacks. It was pretty good.”

She said the contactless delivery made her feel even more isolated.

Southern has not run into any problems with quarantined students.

“All the students are amazing.

They’re polite and gracious. It’s not been hard work,” said Southern.

“There are on average two to three students in quarantine and isolation per week. It’s pretty tough on them.

I’m available 24/7, my assistants are available to them. I’ve done Chick-fil-a night, I’ve done anything to make it a little more normal,” said Southern.

Under the quarantine buddy program, students can volunteer to text and call a student in quarantine to keep them company. “They got me a texting buddy who texted me and asked how I was doing, so that was really nice,” said Alworth.

Flowers and Ortiz wished they could go outside. “I think it would be fair for the students who are in quarantine to be allowed to go outside, even if it’s for a certain amount of time or even if they’re supervised. It would have been really beneficial for me to go on a walk to get out of that building and be in fresh air,” said Ortiz.

Flowers agreed, “Let us go on a walk! Or at least go sit outside, just get some fresh air.”

Southern said it’s not a good idea, but she commends students for sticking through this semester. “I’m really proud of how the students have handled this semester. It is pretty difficult, but it’s not going to last forever,” she said.

CORRECTIONS for THE Week Last week’s issue incorrectly attributed a photo of the Anderson Center COVID testing sign to Grace Tian.

Emily Warren took the photo.

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

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Thursday, February 11, 2021

VIEWPOINTS

Editor: Abigail Weber | blueandgray.views@gmail.com

“Terrorism” is a dangerous label

MATTHEW BOVA Staff Writer

On Jan. 6, a group of Trump supporters found their way into the Capitol Building while protesting the certification of the 2020 Presidential Election. Based on the subsequent arrests, the group appears to be a mixed bag of right-wing politics. Bizarre characters like the Q Shaman and podium thief found themselves alongside militia members who sought to harm members of Congress. While many of them enjoyed friendly interactions with the police, there were deaths of both protesters and a police officer.

Once the issue was resolved, lengthy discussions took place on social media about what to call the participants that made it into the Capitol. Seditionists, insurrectionists and terrorists were all thrown around as the label for these individuals. Leaving aside the legal implications of these terms, I don’t find any of them to be descriptive of the events. Seditionists and

Guantanamo Bay, and the disastrous invasion of Iraq were all consequences of a hasty response that was more intent on exacting state violence than keeping Americans safe. In addition to the government’s response, 9/11 was a disaster for Muslim Americans, as the term “terrorist” become synonymous with their faith, leading to a rise in hate crimes towards Arabs and Muslims.

As of writing, there are already plans for further laws on domestic terrorism. Lawmakes are again pushing

The storming of the Capitol was an embarrassment to our country. But rather than viewing it as an opportunity to further empower the state, we should instead focus on understanding the process of radicalization and striking the problem at its root. insurrectionists give the group too much credit; they did not form a provisional government after congressional members were evacuated, nor did they have any clear plans to prevent Joe Biden from becoming president.

The label I find most insidious is the label of terrorist.

The FBI defines domestic terrorism as “the unlawful use of force and violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives.” While this is a label that A pro-Trump mob broke into the Capitol on Jan 6.

AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana could accurately describe some members of the Jan. the Demostic 6 incident, I still take issue with its use. Terrorism is Terrorism Prevention Act (DTPA), originally proposed a label wholly political and unhelpful, that serves a in 2020. This bill instructs the creation of anti-domestic very specific purpose for politicians. To elaborate, I terrorism offices in several departments. At first glance, will bring up two terrorist attacks that are helpful in this seems like a reasonable proposal, except for a explaining my caution in applying these terms, even to key issue: the participants in the events at the Capitol people I find to be dangerous and evil. are being arrested. They posted on social media, On April 19, 1995, Timothy McVeigh set off a bomb showed their faces proudly, and many have already that killed 168 people in Oklahoma City. Timothy been indicted. This was not a secret plan that required McVeigh was a former soldier who had become experts in counter-terrorism to forsee; these events were radicalized by the militia movement. Following his planned on Facebook and happened because of failings arrest, President Bill Clinton signed the Antiterrorism of DC police and the rhetoric pushed by right-wing and Effective Death Penalty Act of 1996 (ADEPA) with media and politicians. bipartisan consesus. The bill had two major provisions: The storming of the Capitol was an embarrassment to making the process of deporting terrorists easier and our country. But rather than viewing it as an opportunity making the appeals process for death row more difficult. to further empower the state, we should instead focus on Neither of these would have prevented the attacks or understanding the process of radicalization and striking made the arrest of McVeigh easier. “Anti-terrorism” the problem at its root. And before you condemn your seems to be more about strengthening the state’s political rivals as terrorists, keep in mind how that word ability to deport or execute its residents than it is about has been used in order to enact otherwise unpopular preventing further attacks. policies.

Again on 9/11, we saw similar pushes for legislation unrelated to the atrocities committed. The Patriot Act,

Staff Ed: Campus Needs Permanent Memorial to Victims of White Supremacy Following recent controversies surrounding the re-painting of the Spirit Rock, The Blue & Gray Press is calling for the university to provide a place for students to honor the lives and movements that matter to them. UMW needs to provide this place as an alternative location to the Spirit Rock, which is an insufficient place to commemorate the movements closest to student’s hearts. Also, UMW should publicly and permanently state that Black lives matter, and there should be a permanent memorial to victims of white supremacy, including those killed by police.

This issue has come to light because nine months ago the Spirit Rock was painted to commemorate the Black Lives Matter movement. In addition to a BLM message on the front of the rock, the back of the rock displayed the names of Black victims of police brutality. This past week the day inevitably came when the message on the rock was repainted. The rock was changed to advertise the UMW hockey team. Despite the hockey team following the rules of the Spirit Rock, as the rock had been painted with the same message for significantly longer than the 24-hour cursory period, there was still some backlash from students. Some students expressed their outrage that an important BLM message was covered up by a message from a sports team, especially during Black History Month: previously, the Honor Council repainted the front of the rock, but left the names on the side intact. Students were also upset that the hockey team chose to cover up the entire rock, including the list of names on the back, despite not adding any new artwork to the back of the rock.

The BLM message was important, and a place on campus should exist for students to dedicate longlasting art and messages to movements they care about.

That the BLM mural was painted over was in some ways inevitable: The Spirit Rock exists to be painted over and over, and its messages are fleeting.

In summary, UMW needs to create a space for messages like the BLM painting on the rock to shine through. There needs to be a platform on campus for students to express their emotions regarding political movements or tragic events. There needs to be an area where students can create their own art that is not built to change or be painted over.

COVID-19 DASHBOARD 25

Total cases since Jan. 1, 2021

10

Active cases

0.57

7-day average cases per day

2,703

Total entry tests Jan. 1-Feb. 8

9

Positive entry tests Jan. 1-Feb. 8

31

Student health center tests

1

Positive student health center test

37 of 38

Isolation spaces available Trump supporters forced their way into the Capitol Building on Jan. 6.

Evelyn Hockstein for The Washington Post

Thursday, February 11, 2021

74 of 82

Quarantine spaces available

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LIFE

Editor: Erin Matuczinski blueandgray.life@gmail.com

Fountain renovation means loss of popular hangout location

PATRICK BROWN Staff Writer

As students are returning to campus for yet another nontraditional semester, one more difference this semester brings is that the fountain outside of Virginia Hall is being renovated, limiting students’ access to the popular spot.

Many students feel disappointment as a result of the fountain no longer being accessible, feeling that it really brought the campus together.

“It makes me really sad because it’s such an icon, and now you cant even see it,” said sophomore political science and historic preservation major Sarah Miller.

“It’s such an integral part of the community that it’s really sad not to be able to see it, this area is really sad and harsh looking.”

Construction on underground water piping.

Matthew Simmons/The Blue & Gray Press

Many students had questions regarding what was being done to the fountain.

“It’s kinda sad seeing it behind a fence,” said senior biology major Matt Smith. “But they are supposed to work on the pipes underneath it, right?”

UMW Capital Outlay Project Manager Jay Sullivan explained that the work being done on the fountain is for a variety of reasons. New pumps, plumbing, electric, LED lights, light controller and other electrical sensors are all in the works.

A look behind the construction fences surrounding fountain renovation.

These changes could mean that Matthew Simmons/The Blue & Gray Press in the future the fountain will light up at night, which could make the biology Macenzie Dixon. “I mean it definitely needed it, fountain a more popular photo spot then it already is. so I’m all for it.”

The construction is planned to be complete by the Other students acknowledged that the fountain beginning of May, before graduation for the class of needed some work.

2021. For seniors looking to take photos or have one last “As a historic preservationist, I think it’s good.” said jump into the fountain, hope remains. freshman historic preservation major Calvin Harned, “If it gets it up and running I’ll be happy,” said senior regarding the renovation. “I think it is necessary to have marketing major Tucker Gorski. “I want it to be done that in order for other people to enjoy it.” before I graduate.”

“It’s maybe not a bad thing,” said junior history Many upperclassmen have fond memories of their major Haley Alders. “I noticed when I used to sit there time with the fountain, such as junior Hope Baker all the time studying and doing homework that there jumping in with her shoes on after a game of Dungeons were some things I thought needed to be repaired and Dragons, and junior Harper Cowen ordering because of how old it is, so it might be a good thing Vocelli’s to be delivered right to the fountain after a to get it renovated, it is a popular hangout spot for night of hanging out there with her friends. everyone.”

However, since the construction began this year, it Some students formed memories with the fountain seems that freshmen are missing the opportunity to form from even before they attended UMW. Freshman Shelby similar memories.

Tucker grew up in Fredericksburg and always played “I’m pretty neutral to it because I’m a freshman,” in the fountain when she was younger. Now that she’s a said Nate Huff. “I haven’t really experienced life with student, she doesn’t have the opportunity. it.”

Although some freshmen may have missed out on Some students didn’t seem to notice that the fountain a year of making memories by the fountain, once the was blocked off at all. construction is completed, the timeless attraction will “I actually didn’t know it was under construction continue to provide joy for years to come, both to those until about a minute ago,” said sophomore conservation on campus and off.

Class of 2021 mourns a lackluster end to college career From in-person classes to online, partying to social distancing, and no mask to, you guessed it, a mask, graduating seniors reflect on their college years and look ahead to their last semester at UMW. Back in the fall of 2017, UMW’s freshman class was looking forward to their four years of life in college, never imagining that their lives would revolve around Zoom and social distancing.

“It’s been sad,” said senior business administration major Danielle Thompson. “A major part of college is the social part and that just doesn’t exist right now.”

As classes at UMW begin another semester of hybrid learning, graduating seniors reflect on the impact of not seeing their classmates on campus and socializing with their friends in person.

“I’ve had more time for studying which is nice,” said senior psychology major Alex Sharpe. “But I’ve also missed out on a lot of socializing and bonding compared to previous years which helped me with the stress of classes.”

The special part about college life was seeing your friends every day and socializing. However, as a result of the new COVID guidelines to ensure the health and safety of students, graduating seniors look back on the disadvantages of social distancing and isolation.

“It’s been a downer,” said senior math major Matt Scott. “I’ve been lonely, and I miss going to class and seeing so many people every day. Now, most of the time, the only person I see on a daily basis is my roommate.”

One of the many things about UMW that attracts students was the beauty of campus walk and how it used to reflect a sense of community that made the school stand out from the rest.

“It’s definitely a huge difference, especially when the weather is nice,” said senior biology major Mia Alessi. “I enjoy being outside and seeing a lot of people out on campus walk and what not. It is really nice to feel that community and it’s definitely gone at this point.”

Though the importance of following UMW’s COVID guidelines provides a safe environment for students, the regulations have had a large impact on one of UMW’s biggest attractions: Campus Walk.

In previous years, there have been 150 clubs and organizations at UMW where students have been able to become active members. However, now due to the need to social distance and limit groups to no larger than 10 people, many of these clubs and organizations have completely changed.

Alessi is also a member of the Women’s club soccer team. “We have to play in two ‘pods’ of 10, so only 20 players can practice at once,” said Alessi. “For the most part, we ERIN LUNDY Staff Writer

4

are limited on what we can do at practice and we can’t play other schools or scrimmage the boys team.”

Another regulation for club sports is that masks are required to be worn at practices at all times. “[Basketball is] going to look different,” said senior communication major Zane Burk. “Practices will require social distancing and masks, both of which obviously aren’t normal for the game of basketball. We also won’t be able to compete in any games or tournaments, which is tough, but it’s part of recovering from COVID.” Burk is also Club Basketball’s President.

Seniors interviewed were particularly concerned about the job market. As a result of the COVID pandemic, seniors have complained that it has been difficult trying to find a job.

“The job market is terrible,” said Thompson. “Not many places are hiring and it’s stressful because everyone’s competing for the few that are available.”

As the pandemic put a lot of people out of work, seniors have also complained that they are competing with many unemployed people on the job market.

“It has been tough,” said senior conservation biology major Mary Musgrove. “The job market is scarce, especially since I want to work with animals. So, even though my dream is to work in a zoo, the job market has forced me to work elsewhere.”

Senior stress is being followed by a scarce job market. L. Villasmil/Unsplash

Thursday, Februrary 11, 2021

LIFE

Uncertainty surrounds CPB’s virtual Big Spring Concert

ABIGAIL SLAUGHTER Staff Writer

The Campus Programming Board’s upcoming Big Spring Concert will be virtual this year. Unlike the usual gathering of excited students that meets in the Anderson Center for the show, concert goers will attend a Zoom call and view the performance put on many miles away.

The CPB sent out the Big Spring Artist Pick Survey on Feb. 1, asking students to pick their top choices out of a list of artists they wanted to perform at the Big Spring Concert. One of the many changes from previous semesters is letting students have the option to select non-musical entertainers instead of the usual bands and singers.

Some of students’ choices include Valley, B.o.B, Echosmith and performer Antoni Porowski, a food and wine expert on the popular Netflix lifestyle makeover show Queer Eye. “We want people to just have a good time. That’s our main purpose of even doing this,” says Huda Al-Bana, a senior biochemistry major and the president of CPB. She oversees all board events, working especially closely with board members in order to pull off a concert that will be unlike any other held at UMW.

The tickets for the Big Spring Concert will be free, which was done as an incentive for more people to attend. Unlike past shows, board members do not foresee a limit to how many people can attend the show this year.

The Feb. 1 survey received about 200 responses, many fewer than last year, and CPB is concerned about getting attendance for a virtual concert, not to mention their smaller events.

“I think that where we’re lacking is in interaction with the students,” said Al-Bana. “We can hold events all day but who wants to be on Zoom all day in classes and come to an event on Zoom again?”

A big obstacle for CPB has been a limited budget. With less money to put towards the concert, the board has to pay closer attention to what interests students so they do not waste their resources on a concert with little interest.

“An online concert is a whole different animal,” said Kayla Shaffer, a junior psychology major who is also one of CPB’s production chairs. For the Big Spring Concert, she handles show production and tasks involving the artist.

Shaffer thinks that having virtual events is easier in some ways. A typical Spring Concert requires funds for security,

blockades, lighting and stages. Also, bands do not have to travel to perform, which saves the school thousands of dollars.

With CPB’s inability to put on Mary Rock, Rocktoberfest or Small Concert, they are trying their best to put on a great show for students.

Stella Swope, a senior communication and digital studies major, worries students are paying less attention to campus activities than before the pandemic.

“I think a lot of people are thinking about surviving and doing well in their classes, and the spring concert is very low on the list, unfortunately,” said Swope. She worries as a student who has attended a significant number of campus events that an online show loses the social appeal that makes concerts so unique.

With the pandemic forcing events online and drawing students’ attention away from campus activities, it has been challenging for CPB to get students to take interest in the concert, let alone know of its existence.

CPB fills many roles on campus. Before the pandemic, they would host weekly movie nights and occasional acoustic shows along with Big Spring Concert, a highly anticipated event among students. However, in a country void of live

performances, the board has to adapt to rigid constraints keeping large in-person gatherings from happening.

The school’s #ForwardUMW plan released last July outlines restrictions on large events, stating that gatherings over 30 people will not be held for the foreseeable future. This policy is not expected to change this semester, and the concert will follow these guidelines just like every other organized event on campus thus far.

“We weren’t even debating having a concert right now in person, even if the guidelines weren’t set,” said Al-Bana.

CPB is hoping to give 20-30 loyal and active students that go to their events the opportunity to have a Q&A with the artist.

With plans to send out a second survey in the coming weeks and do more advertising, Shaffer and Al-Bana hope to see a rise in attendance.

Though an exact date for the Big Spring Concert is not yet set in stone, the show will likely be sometime in April.

“Hopefully there will have been enough vaccines in the fall to bring [in-person concerts] back,” said Shaffer.

Warm winter meals that require little to no preparation ELIZABETH FOSTER Staff Writer

Cooking in college can often become boring and repetitive, so if you’re looking to spice things up, here are three new recipes to try. Not only do these recipes look good, they’re also relatively quick and easy to make, only requiring a handful of ingredients and under an hour of time. So let’s get into it!

After sauteing for 2-3 minutes, pour in the tomato sauce and let cook for 5 minutes longer, stirring the mixture continuously.

Bring the heat to low, and make six indentions in the sauce with the back of a spoon. Crack the eggs into these indentions so that they sit on top of the sauce.

Put the skillet in the oven and bake uncovered for 1012 minutes. After cooking, eat as is or garnish with the feta and cilantro and serve with crusty bread on the side.

Stuffed bell peppers look like they might be complicated to make, but they’re actually super easy!

This version of the recipe incorporates a cheesy beanand-rice mixture that’s quick to mix up and tastes great.

Switch up your breakfast by choosing spicy over sweet.

Shakshuka, a savory eggs-and-tomato dish, originated in North Africa and is now enjoyed throughout the world (but especially in the Middle East). Traditionally, the dish is eaten for breakfast, but it can really be enjoyed at any time of the day; those who don’t like their breakfast spicy might prefer to save it for dinner instead.

For this recipe, you will need: 3 tbsp. butter 1 tsp. cumin 1 tsp. paprika ½ tsp. cayenne 1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes 1 red bell pepper (diced) 1 sweet onion (sliced) 4 cloves garlic (minced) 6 eggs Optional (to garnish): ¼ cup feta cheese Fresh cilantro (to taste) Heat oven to 375 degrees. After melting your butter in a cast-iron skillet, saute the onions over medium heat, then add the red bell peppers, minced garlic, and spices.

Thursday, February 11, 2021

peppers in half and hollow them out. Pack in the rice mixture and sprinkle the cheese on top. Place the stuffed peppers in the casserole dish and cook (covered!) for 30 minutes, then take the cover off and cook for 10 more minutes. Serve with sour cream, scallions or bacon sprinkled on top.

If fettuccine alfredo is your go-to order when getting Italian food, you might be surprised just how

Skip the trip to Olive Garden and make your own pasta dish.

Stuffed bell peppers have great versatillty with fillings.

You will need: 1 ½ cups white rice 2 ½ cups vegetable broth or water 1 yellow onion, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 cup corn 14 oz. can diced tomatoes 2 tbsp. taco seasoning 14 oz. can black beans, drained 3 large red bell peppers 1 cup pepper jack cheese In a skillet or pan, stir the rice, onion, diced red bell peppers, tomatoes, broth or water, and taco seasoning.

Bring the mixture to a simmer and then cover and cook on low for about 20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Mix in the black beans and corn and set to the side.

Heat the oven to 400 degrees. Cut the other red bell

easy it is to make at home. It’s by far the easiest recipe in this article: it only takes butter, heavy cream, garlic and two types of cheese to make the sauce for this dish, and the pasta takes no time at all to cook.

Here’s what you’ll need: 24 oz. fettuccine pasta ⅔ - 1 cup butter ¾ pint heavy cream ¾ cup grated romano cheese ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 clove of garlic (minced) Optional: Parsley or basil (to garnish) Cook the fettuccine alfredo in a large pot until al dente (about 10 minutes). Drain water and set aside.

Melt the butter at medium heat and saute the garlic for 2-3 minutes before adding in the heavy cream.

Slowly add handfuls of the cheese in, stirring until each handful melts fully into the sauce. Cook the mixture, stirring continuously, until it starts to thicken.

Pour the mixture in with the pasta and mix to coat.

Serve as is or with parsley or basil to garnish.

Photos courtesy of Elizabeth Foster.

5

VIEWPOINTS

Editor: Abigail Weber | blueandgray.views@gmail.com

UMW should add competitive eSports teams

As a result of the ongoing pandemic, UMW MADISON TURNER was unfortunately forced to cancel all winter sports Staff Writer competitions for their student athletes on campus. Due the cancellation of all competitions. After the sudden to the unique nature of eSports which allow for it to cancellation of sports events in March of 2020, members thrive in the midst of a pandemic, universities with of the UMW community remained hopeful that sports eSports teams are able to take advantage of remote would be able to return. However, yet another semester competitive gaming, if they have made it a part of their of sports competitions has been cancelled to maintain sports programs. the safety and health of the community.

“Some of the best gaming colleges include Maryville, These cancellations resulted in many students being Robert Morris, Ashland, and Harrisburg University,” away from their sports and out of practice. This time said the National Association of Collegiate eSports away from competing has caused concern for some (NACE). In their organization, there are currently 175 athletes, as they feel they will no longer perform at their collegiate varsity gaming programs across the nation. best once the sports seasons are able to resume. Some The number of of these athletes these programs are disappointed and the value because they will of the eSports be graduating market is without ever expected to having the chance rapidly increase to compete again over the next for the school. few years.

While Studies show traditional that by 2023, sports teams are global eSports currently unable market revenue to compete, is expected to universities that reach 1.6 billion have eSports dollars. teams were able The to quickly adapt cancellation ESports allow students to enjoy the community and school spirit of sports in safety. to the challenges of Mary Stem List/@stemlist on unsplash that presented Washington’s themselves with the sports competitions has left a number of student athletes COVID pandemic.

Throughout the pandemic, eSports with no challenges to look forward to, as many of the competitions have been able to remain relevant, and still sports programs are expected to abruptly end due to

operate in safe manners. As online games are able to be played completely remotely, the only thing a team needs in order to play and practice together are their computers and internet connections. This means that they can practice and compete from home. Because of this, abiding by COVID guidelines during team practices and competitions is entirely feasible, because close contact is unlikely to be a requirement.

I feel that the eSports scene is similar to traditional sports in many ways. It provides a sense of community and a way for students to identify with a university’s team as traditional sports often do. As eSports competitions can be streamed online, students can attend games to spectate in a way that is safer than attending traditional university sports games. This creates a safer environment for not only the players, but fans of the players as well.

With an ongoing pandemic, many traditional college experiences for students have been altered, or cancelled all together. With the absence of college sporting events, parties, and get togethers, much of the fun associated with being a college student has been stripped away from UMW students. With restrictions on gatherings, online communities have become a new way for students to engage with each other safely over the internet.

Due to the cancellation of many activities and clubs on campus, UMW students are in need of ways to connect with one another during this pandemic. While the eSports scene grew rapidly before COVID spread across our country, the practicality of it in the world’s current situation has made it grow even faster. As other universities are adapting to these changes by expanding their sports programs, I believe it is time for Mary Washington to enter into the world of eSports as well.

Partying in a pandemic is selfish and irresponsible Seeing people out and about as though nothing is talking about how they were going to be late to the bar wrong worries me for a couple of reasons. The disease and they also were not wearing masks.” They could only is highly spreadable and highly deadly to certain guess that a majority of those people walking towards As a student who has spent a lot of time away from groups. Since we know this information, why are we, campus later in the night were going to find parties to campus last semester (not by choice, obviously) I as responsible members of the community, actively hang out at. think living on campus has been one of the things that going against the advice of health officials? Is it because When I explain to people who don’t understand I’ve missed most out of all the things that COVID-19 we have the self control of Cookie Monster? Or is why we must enforce social distancing in order for hastaken from me. it because we really some semblance of normalcy to return, I compare Mary I partake in the occasional just don’t care? At any Washington to America. If Americans don’t stay home perusal of my social media “When me and my girlfriend were getting ready, rate, at a time where and take the appropriate measures, we are going to to see what my peers (which we walked outside to my car and saw so many the total death rate is prolong this pseudo-quarantine. The same goes for the consist of fellow Mary people walking to campus like later in the night at nearly half a million, one university. Imagine if every time you went to a party, Washington students and around 9 p.m. And when we were walking inside, might consider getting another day was added on the amount of days total folks I know from high school there were girls in front of us and behind us who wine drunk with their that you have to spend in a COVID world, away from alike) have been up to since were talking about how they were going to be late roommates instead of campus, away from all your friends. It would probably quarantine really hit. When to the bar and they also were not wearing masks.” attending that crowded make you think twice about going to that party, right? school first started back up, I frat party where it is For all intents and purposes, that is what’s happening. thought I would end up seeing -Hannah A. highly likely that many Mary Washington has maintained a comparatively a lot of people inside of their germs spread very easily. low number of cases, but as schools like JMU have dorm room or apartment or at exhibited, it’s extremely easy for that number to spiral. home. Instead, I’ve seen a handful of people (most of I caught up with some friends who live on campus.

Hold your fellow Eagles accountable, and wear the whom belong to sororities or fraternities) carelessly Hannah A. and their girlfriend were leaving Eagle mask. partying or seeing other people outside of who they Landing one weekend to go for a drive around live with without masks almost every weekend without Fredericksburg and fail. These parties look like they’re taking place in when they returned, basements or enclosed areas. they were shocked Although I wish I could say I’ve been perfectly to see the amount careful throughout this pandemic with adhering to every of people that were single measure, I haven’t. That’s something I can admit, out walking towards and surely others can as well. But the occasional night campus. “Like everyone out for dinner at a restaurant or going on a socially closed their blinds at distanced picnic with your friends is not the same as Eagle,” said junior attending parties of 15 or more without masks and Hannah A. “When without the proper quarantine measures. me and my girlfriend During its first week back, James Madison were getting ready, we University experienced a “rapid spread” of COVID-19 walked outside to my cases. Starting on Sept. 10, JMU’s newspaper started car and saw so many publishing an updated number of COVID-19 cases in people walking to a weekly update. During the first week and a half or campus like later in the so, JMU observed a whopping 149 cases. As of Feb. 9, night at around 9 p.m.

Mary Washington has accumulated a total of 25 cases And when we were since Jan. 1. Although Mary Washington is considerably walking inside, there smaller than JMU, it is important that everyone does were girls in front of us Partying during a pandemic endangers us all. their part in ensuring that the spread of COVID is under Jacob Bentzinger/@jacobbentzinger on unsplash and behind us who were control.

KELLIE BOWMAN Staff Writer

Thursday, February 11, 2021

6

NEWS

Hillel Center serves as safe space for Jewish students

Jean mondoro & Charlotte Campbell

staff Writers

The new Maxine and Carl D. Silver Hillel Center opened in Oct. 2020. Though the opening was relatively subtle, this safe space has still managed to have an impact on Jewish students at UMW. “Hillel’s mission is to enrich the lives of students so that they may enrich the lives of their communities and the world,” said Rabbi Menachem Sherman.

Even in the midst of the pandemic, this newly established Jewish community has already begun making a difference in the lives of UMW students. Grace Bauman, a sophomore sociology major, visits the Hillel Center often.

“I love it so much,” she said.

“I can go to the cafe area or the big room used for services to study or sit outside.”

To other students, the Hillel Center is a safe space on campus.

“With the Hillel, I know that I always have a safe, reliable space on campus,” said freshman Logan Kurtz.

“Especially during a pandemic, it is important to know that there are people who care about you and support your success and well-being.”

Benjamin Siegel, a senior political science major, has also had a positive experience with the community.

“Hillel has done an excellent job of enhancing the lives of Jewish students on campus,” he said. “Finally having a space

that provides Jewish students a place to study and socialize makes anybody’s day better.”

This impact on UMW students has been in preparation for the past few years.

Beginning in 2016, Larry Silver and his son Spencer led the Silver Foundation in a joint effort with Hillel International to provide students with the opportunity to engage in and celebrate their Jewish faith.

“The Hillel will mean different things to different people,” Sherman said when asked about the purpose of the new community. “Jewish students may come for the religious aspects or may come only for the social events. NonJewish students may because they are interested in learning more about Judaism or because they have a friend in Hillel, or maybe just because they heard there is great Challah bread or chicken soup.”

A year later, in 2017, plans to begin work on this project were being made, gaining support from Jewish faculty members as well as the university itself. The project has been in progress for roughly three years.

Now that the construction is completed, the community faces the challenges of the pandemic.

“Friday night dinner and services are typically the most engaging time for Jewish students on campuses across America, as students come together for a traditional Shabbat service followed by dinner,” Sherman said. “This year, we have given out bags

The Maxine and Carl D. Silver Hillel Center has made a positive impact on Jewish students since its opening in Fall 2020.

Matthew Simmons / The Blue & Gray Press

with some Shabbat food in them and have directed students towards Hillel International resources for prayer.”

The community has also offered casual gatherings such as the Tuesday Schmooze-day event, which gives students an opportunity for fellowship with the help of coffee and Krispy Kreme doughnuts.

In the years to come, the Hillel Center hopes to provide a secure religious community for Jewish students at UMW, as well as form connections with high school students and invite them into the family.

“Our goals for the near term are to establish a home away from home for our students and

provide quality programming for all interested people in our community to explore Judaism and forge connections,” said Rabbi Sherman. “In the long term, we would love to see UMW increase the number of Jewish students on campus.”

Collaborations with other religious communities affiliated with the university may also be established.

“We haven’t had any formal programs together yet,” Sherman said about these connections. “But I imagine it won’t be long until there are some events that have interfaith dialogue which I am sure will yield some fantastic conversations.”

Even as this new community is just getting started, it has already made lasting impacts on UMW students.

“Hillel and staff have given me options when I was sure I had none, have made me feel heard when I have felt mute, and have reminded me that I am not alone in my journey to accomplishing the formidable yet necessary feat of earning my bachelor’s degree,” said freshman Haley Schnizter.

“My college experience so far has been thoroughly enriched by all the experiences I have had and friendships I’ve established through Hillel, and I look forward to the coming semester and all it entails.”

Food waste contaminates recycling in residence halls

•recycling | 1

assistant.

“Most of the time it’s people throwing away food [in the recycling bin] that’s completely uneaten or unfinished,” Iem said.

Schneider has also been informed on the issue of students’ recycling habits. “[I] have heard it mentioned in various sustainability meetings that it is challenging to get students to follow recycling procedures in the residence halls,” he said. “It is more relevant

“I know that food waste is one of the biggest issues about the environment, so to see a relatively climate-conscious campus do this to the recycling bins makes me pretty upset.”

-Asa Iem now as we have moved to all takeout containers to ensure the safety of our guests.”

According to Schneider, in order to recycle plastic and paper materials, they must have less than 10 percent of food waste on them.

“Within those guidelines, we recycle all cardboard boxes, paper and cooking oil. The majority of our disposables used are recyclable, and/or

Thursday, February 11, 2021

compostable. This applies to Top of the UC, the Market, Bodacious Burger and Catering,” Schneider said.

Iem believes that incorrect recycling may be happening because people do not know what they can and can’t recycle.

Currently, there are signs near trash bins around campus that aim to guide students on what items are disposable waste. Some of the items include styrofoam, paper towels and food.

Recycling guides specify that students should bag their recyclables before they go to dispose of them, which, according to Iem, isn’t a procedure that students always follow.

“I think there are helpful signs around the bins to help students understand what they can and cannot recycle, but I have noticed that this doesn’t really stop people from throwing their trash in any way,” said senior geology major Trevor Gunn.

Knowing what to recycle doesn’t come as a problem to Gunn, though he sometimes finds it confusing to know where he is supposed to dispose of his recyclables.

“Sometimes the bins can be confusing just because some of them just seem like ordinary trash cans with a differentcolored bag,” he said.

Even though there are efforts being made, many believe there is much more

A recycling bin put in place by UMW across campus to promote and encourage students to recycle.

Each recycling bin contains a unique top painted by UMW students.

Emily Warren / The Blue & Gray Press

to be done in order to make UMW a more sustainable campus.

“If it was just a small amount of trash that ends up in the recycling then it wouldn’t be a huge deal, but the thing is that it happens a lot,” said Iem. “During [winter] break... there was a lot of recycling some days and other times I was really surprised at what ended up in there.”

Food items such as uneaten Caesar’s

pizzas and jugs of apple sauce are some of the things that Iem would find at the recycling drop sites near residence halls.

“It’s mainly just completely untouched and uneaten food, it makes me really upset to see,” she said. “I know that food waste is one of the biggest issues about the environment, so to see a relatively climate-conscious campus do this to the recycling bins it makes me pretty upset.”

7

SPORTS

Editor: Victoria R. Percherke | blueandgray.sports@gmail.com

New athletic conference allows for competition across the nation WILLIAM HACKETT Staff Writer

this, as its in-state and UMW recently moved from the Capital Athletic out-of-state Conference to the Coast to Coast Conference. The student change will allow UMW athletes to play against teams percentages from all across the United States, including schools are the from California, Wisconsin, Massachusetts and New opposite York. Previously, the school only played against teams of the along the East Coast.

University’s This change has the potential to attract athletes from as a whole. around the country to UMW to compete against schools Of their 38 they would never have been able to if they attended players, smaller Division III universities.

79 percent “I am excited to have the opportunity to play teams are out-offrom all around the country, not just in the Virginia state, with region,” said Brook Barsella, a sophomore finance only eight major and member of the women’s lacrosse team. athletes For some student athletes, the inclusive athletics being from program is a huge part of what drew them to UMW. Virginia.

Barsella is from Hudson, Ohio which is 415 miles The from UMW’s campus. “When I first visited Mary women’s Washington, I got to meet all of the girls on the team tennis team and I felt included immediately. Other schools I visited has all did not give me the same welcoming,” said Barsella. out-of-state At UMW, recruits who are interested in playing on athletes a sports team can fill out a recruiting profile for their ranging The inclusive athletic program, Coast to Coast, is a huge attraction to UMW athletes. desired sport. This lets coaches know that they are from Coast to Coast Athletic Conference interested in learning more about the university and Georgia their particular sport. Coaches also reach out to potential all the way to Colorado. Both of these teams have been Championship,” said Carly Kingston, a senior women’s recruits at club tournaments, which is where they see nationally ranked almost every year for the past ten lacrosse player from Longmeadow Massachusetts. most of the out-of-state players. years.

UMW competes in 19 sports and has 509 student “Coach Moore contacted me in the fall of my senior athletes traveling from all over the United States “Seeing that UMW has been nationally ranked made year of high school after seeing me play at a club to compete at the national Division III level. These the choice to attend Mary Washington a lot easier. I have lacrosse tournament. I hadn’t heard of UMW before but student athletes make up a large portion of the always wanted to make it to the NCAA playoffs after doing some research about the school and asking university’s out-of-state students, and continuously and to have a chance at winning the National people about it I was interested,” said Barsella. add to the competitive culture of the school. With One of the draws of UMW is their wide reaching the recent transfer to the Coast to Coast Conference “Seeing that UMW has been nationally ranked athletics program. According to the State Council UMW solidified its standing as a national Division III made the choice to attend for Higher Education in Virginia, 9 percent of UMW university.

Mary Washington a lot easier.” students are out-of-state. Athletics at UMW increases the number of out-of-state students at the university as sports attract people from all around the country.

- Carly Kingston The women’s lacrosse team is a prime example of

UMW students take advantage of newly legalized sports betting

JACK MONAGHAN Staff Writer

Sports betting was legalized by the Virginia General Assembly in March of 2020, with sports fans – including UMW students – able to place legal sports bets in January 2021.

UMW seniors Trent Moore and Nick Bass said they couldn’t be more excited about sports betting being legalized in Virginia.

Bass said legal sports betting enhances his enjoyment of games.

“I got into sports betting to make my NFL Sundays more enjoyable,” he said.

“Before betting, I would only really watch the Steelers games and wouldn’t care much for any games outside of the division. This changes with betting because I have money placed on multiple games, which makes me watch more games come Sunday.”

According to an online article from SBC Americas, the legislation allowed sports betting on most of all the major league sports as well as most college sports, with the exception of games featuring Virginia colleges and universities. Major internet

Legal sports betting went into effect in January of 2021.

Thursday, February 11, 2021

sportsbooks, like Fanduel, BetMGM and DraftKings “I got into sports betting to make my NFL submit applications to the Sundays more enjoyable.”

Virginia Lottery for review.

The first of the online - Nick Bass sportsbooks to be approved for their license was Fanduel because of its partnership with the Washington Football Team, and users were allowed to start placing bets as of Jan. 27 2021. Fanduel has seen an increase in users since then.

While sports betting has become legal in Virginia, there are many rules and regulations regarding how online sportsbooks receive their licenses. In Virginia you must be at least 21 years of age to place bets on the app, as well as actually being in the state of Virginia. Fanduel users can attest that every time you log in, there is a geolocation check to make sure that you are actually in the state of Virginia at the time you place a bet.

Moore and Bass are daily users of the Fanduel sportsbook app. While the two use the same platform, their respective approaches to this newly legal venture are completely different. Moore ventures into a multitude of different sports while Bass sticks with football, basketball and baseball.

Moore describes his sports betting as a process, one that he goes through daily. “Every morning I research the slate of games and look at the differing stats of the two along with their head-to-head records.

Every sport has a different process but will more or less follow the same formula.”

Moore described his average process and how it differs depending on the season of sport. He enjoys placing unorthodox bets on sports such as Japanese horses or Chinese basketball. Once all of the morning sports are out of the way college basketball and football are usually on. During this time he stated that he could place upwards of twenty wagers a day.

Moore and Bass describe the legalization of sports betting as a process that makes sports more enjoyable. It is also a way to make extra money when it is harder to work long hours because of their commitment to school.

Overall, it seems to some students that the legalization of sports betting in Virginia is a positive action. It provides a legal avenue for people to safely enjoy the process of sports betting from the comfort of a USA Today digital screen.

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