The Blue & Gray Press

THE

BLUE &GRAY

THE UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON STUDENT NEWSPAPER

PRESS

April 19, 2018

VOLUME 91 | ISSUE 23 SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE

1922

Students and faculty question no-mace policy ES HETHCOX & Meaghan mcinTyre Online Editor and News Editor

Flipping through a University of Mary Washington student handbook or reading through forbidden items in residence halls, students can find a list of forbidden items including: drugs, fireworks, and hoverboards. There is one item on the list which concerns students.

Buried in a long list of forbidden items that allegedly may “pose a danger to the UMW community,” is mace.

The discussion of UMW’s prohibition of mace has caught the attention of students and faculty alike.

Of 83 students and two professors who responded to a survey on SurveyMonkey about whether they agreed with this policy, the vast majority said they did not. 79 of the 85 participants in the poll said they believe mace should be allowed.

Senior psychology major Sierra McCahon, who is a sexual assault survivor, feels the university should do more to protect students.

“I believe that the school does not provide enough protection for students and often concerns of safety are just dismissed,” said McCahon. “I am not supportive of this policy because there have been rapes on campus and I feel like I should be able to protect myself.”

McCahon went on to comment about the presence of crime on campus.

“If there was never any crime on campus, I could maybe understand the policy,” said McCahon. “That simply isn’t the case.”

Some students feel that school ad-

ministration is responsible for fostering a safe campus, yet still disagree with the policy.

“I think administration has the responsibility to keep campus safe,” biology major Ali Myers said. “But I believe that students having mace (and self defense training) would make this an easier task for all involved.”

Students recognize the intent behind the policy may be beneficial, but feel that there are various issues attached to it.

“I think the policy is misguided and it punishes the people that are most at risk from sexual assault, harassment and violence of all kinds by robbing them of tools to defend themselves,” said sophomore biology major Sarah Akers.

Other students acknowledge the administrations reasoning behind the policy.

“Mace can chemically harm someone (cause blindness/skin irritation and things) and there can be someone who uses their mace prematurely,” said senior history major Rachel Dacey. “I think UMW is trying to prevent an accidental use and injury.”

Origin of the policy About the policy, there is a universal question of why it is in place.

This ban on mace first appeared in the 2013-2014 edition of the student handbook in the section contains rules of Residence Life. The policy is also included in section one of the Student Code of Conduct, a document which is separate from the student handbook.

As identified in an email from the Vice President of Student Affairs Juliette Landphair, this ban exists cam-

Many students feel they should be allowed to carry mace on campus.

pus-wide.

The Student Code of Conduct states that possession of “Illegal or unauthorized possession of firearms, explosives, fireworks, other weapons, or dangerous chemicals,” is a violation “of community standards.”

But according to Ray Tuttle, director of student conduct and responsibility and UMW employee since 1996, before it’s introduction to the handbook the policy was still being upheld informally.

Es Hethcox / The Blue & Gray Press

“As I recall, we’ve had a policy prohibiting pepper spray and similar chemicals for a long time – certainly before the 2013-14 academic year,” Tuttle said.

“It might be that mace was specifically mentioned that year simply to clarify the intent and scope of the policy.”

According to Tuttle, prior to 20132014 if there was an incident in which a student “discharged mace, particularly if the discharge had harmed others” the student would be held accountable for the incident •MACE | 10

College of Arts and Sciences welcomes Dean Mellinger

department for six years. In addition, he has held the position of director of Academic and Career Services, accordOn Mar. 27, 2018, the University ing to an article posted on EagleEye by of Mary Washington’s Provost, Nina Marty Morrison.

Mikhalevsky, made an exciting an“I’m excited,” said Mellinger. “Benouncement in an email to the Universiing permanent means that the issues ty comthat the munity. college Keith is fac“Dr. Mellinger brings the necessary M e l ing are experience, skills, knowledge and l i n g e r, much a f t e r genuine commitment to our students m o r e serving on my and faculty to provide the kind of as the plate leadership that will enable us to address and I interim d e a n our current challenges [and] strength[s].” n e e d since to deal J u n e w i t h 2017, -Provost Mikhalevsky t h e m w a s m o r e named seriousthe permanent dean of the College of ly. I’m excited to be able to dive right Arts and Sciences. in.”

Mellinger has been a UMW faculty “Dr. Mellinger brings the necessary member since 2003 when he started as experience, skills, knowledge and gena faculty member in the Department of uine commitment to our students and Mathematics. He was the chair of the •MELLINGER| 11 faculty to provide

Hannah Galeone Senior Writer

Keith Mellinger was recently named the permanent dead of the College of Arts and Sciences.

IN THIS

ISSUE

CULTURE & ACTIVISM

EagleEye

FACEBOOK FAIL

UMW comes together for the Multicultural Fair.

Facebook privacy scandal shows lack of care for users.

LIFE | 7

VIEWPOINTS | 4

BLOW OUT

Men’s lax gets handled by Salisbury.

SPORTS | 12

NEWS

Editors: Meaghan McIntyre & Izzy Briones | blueandgray.news@gmail.com

President Paino presents proposed 2018-2019 budget

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 Kelly Emmrich

SECTION EDITORS NEWS Meaghan McIntyre

Izzy Briones

VIEWPOINTS Ginny Bixby

LIFE Lauren Closs

SPORTS Ryan Brauch

ONLINE Es Hethcox

PHOTO Cayley McGuire

Kyrstiane Urbaniak

FACULTY ADVISOR

Hannah Rothwell Staff Writer

UMW SGA Twitter New SGA cabinet members are looking forward to making a positive impact on campus.

Student Government Association welcomes changes T’KEYAH JONES Staff Writer

Recently, the Student Government Association (SGA), held elections to determine their new cabinet for the upcoming school year. The student body voted online through public polls on OrgSync. SGA also has enacted a new constitution. Many of the newly elected members are looking forward to the positive impacts the new constitution will have and are excited to begin building better relationships with the student body.

Junior, Matt Good, who currently serves as the Director of Communications for SGA, was elected to be SGA President for next year.

Good hopes that more students become aware of what SGA can do for them and that students will come to them with any concerns they may have.

“I think that’s the importance [of SGA] , that’s your voice for the school, that’s the number one thing that you can utilize to elicit change on campus,” said Good.

Junior, Jamie McGuire, has served in the Student Senate as Secretary since her freshman year and will now be serving as the SGA Vice President for the upcoming year.

“The best part of being in student senate and SGA as a whole, is the change that we are able to do. Not a lot of people know about SGA and that’s why we recreated our constitution, trying to uphold that,” said McGuire.

McGuire hopes to have more in-

volvement between SGA and the UMW community and shared her goals for achieving this.

“We aim to have our senators and the student senate and the SGA [working] as a whole, being on the ground of campus and meeting new people, joining other clubs and talking to them about their concerns, being more involved in club events, volunteering and so forth,” said McGuire.

As stated previously, there were big changes made earlier in the year, which resulted in the rewriting of the SGA Constitution. Many new members of the SGA cabinet are looking forward to the effects the newly revised Constitution will have.

“My big goal would definitely be to realize what that’s going to be,” said Good. He added, “I’ll be tasked with making sure it works next year and just figuring out what that’s going to look like, what obstacles are we going to run up against, how do we solve them, what changes are we going to have to make based on the system, growing pains and that kind of stuff.”

“We have just now been handed the reigns of this new constitution and its about upholding that and making our SGA transparent with the student body so that more students are able to understand SGA and what we can do,” said McGuire.

Junior, Mary Skinner, has served as the chairperson for the committee of Environmental Sustainability since last year, and was elected as next year’s •SGA | 11 chair of the Ethics and

“I think that’s the importance [of SGA] , that’s your voice for the school, that’s the number one thing that you can utilize to elicit change on campus.”

-Matt Good

CORRECTIONS for THE Week In last weeks News article titled “Why some students take a greater leap towards success even after receiving a higher education”, there was a misspelling in the title.

PLEASE REPORT ANY MISTAKES SEEN IN THE BLUE & GRAY PRESS TO

Sushma Subramanian

2

Kelly Emmrich, blueandgray.eic@gmail.com or Sushma Subramanian, ssubrama@umw.edu

On Wednesday, April 11 as a part of the “Can We Talk” student forums, President Paino presented his proposed budget for the 2018-2019 school year to gauge student reactions to proposed tuition increases.

He is proposing an increase of 3 percent for tuition and comprehensive education and general fees, and four percent for Auxiliary Comprehensive fees. That would be an increase of $402

“I’m aware of the burden this puts on families. This forum is a part of an ongoing effort to be more transparent, and to hear from the students how these decisions affect their lives.”

-President Paino for in-state students and $806 for outof-state students for the next academic year.

Paino said that money will go to pay for a mandated increase in healthcare for faculty and staff, as well as a raise in faculty salaries, which have remained stagnant over the past few years. Money will also be allocated to enhancing the career and professional development center, increasing accessibility technology for students with disabilities, and servicing debts for campus construction projects.

This increase is higher than inflation, which the Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports fluctuated around 1.5 percent for the Northern Virginia area for the past two years. Although this does outpace inflation, it is still lower than the proposed tuition increase of other Virginia schools. Christopher Newport University and William & Mary are proposing increases of 6 percent or higher for incoming freshmen.

Schools like University of Virginia and Virginia Tech are still citing increases of 2-3 percent.

“This is responsible,” said Paino.

“Especially since we’re going into this not knowing what we’re getting from the state.”

The Virginia General Assembly has been delayed in deciding how much money to allocate to state schools for the next fiscal year, however the administration wants to present a budget

by May 1, the deadline to commit to a college. Financial aid is a highly considered factor for many •BUDGET | 11

SPORTS

First round of NHL playoffs starts off with a bang

HANNA LUGO Staff Writer

The National Hockey League playoffs have always been a hit. Every season, sports fans gather around the television or arenas to cheer on their favorite team, hoping for an intense game to remember later on. The 2017 Six-Game Stanley Cup Final was the most-watched final on record with 4.762 million viewers. This was up 19 percent versus the Stanley Cup Final in 2016.

This year, eight teams from each division made it into the playoffs. In the Eastern division the teams that made it through were the Washington Capitals, Pittsburgh Penguins, Philadelphia Flyers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Columbus Blue Jackets, and the New Jersey Devils.

In the Western division the Nashville Predators, Winnipeg Jets, Minnesota Wilds, Vegas Golden Knights, Anaheim Ducks, San Jose Sharks, Los Angeles LA Kings, and Colorado Avalanches made it to the playoffs.

This year has been a bit tough for the Washington Capitals by losing their first two games in the playoffs against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Game one was on April 12 with a score of 3-4 while game two was scored 4-5. During game one Carlson scored twice in the

first period and again in the third period.

The winning shots were concluded by Panarin, Cole, and Dubois.

John Carlson scored goals during the first three periods of the second game, while Calvert, Werenski and Anderson scored during overtime which caused the Blue Jackets to receive the winning title.

Since the playoffs started, David Pastrnak from the Boston Bruins has shined in the spotlight with nine points, while Devan Dubnyk from the Minnesota Wilds has a 3.04 goals against average score. Marc-Andre Fleury has a .970 save percentage, three wins, and one shutout.

Currently, the Boston Bruins have scored the most points during the playoffs. They played the Toronto Maple Leafs on April 14 with a score of 7-3. The Bruins are in the lead of 2-0 while the Leafs are 0-2. David Pastrnak showed with a hat trick and three assists as part of a six-point night, which led the Bruins to win the game.

“I played with great players in a great team (this season) and we’re playing well now, it’s very easy for me to follow up with the team… We have a lot of guys who want it and know what it takes,” Pastrnak said after their successful win.

He is known to being the youngest

player to score six points in a Stanley Cup playoff game.

Even though it was considered an accidental collision, Penguins player Kris Letang was forced to leave the rink after colliding into Flyers player Claude Giroux. Philadelphia was up 2-0 halfway during the second period when this unfortunate incident happened. Better luck next time!

Some drama escalated on the rink when Flyers player Radko Gudas did his best to push some buttons for Penguins player, Sidney Crosby. Crosby has been known to touch the center of the ice during the pre-game skate. However, Gudas decided to insert himself right on the center of the ice during No. 87’s ritual. According to social media, many thought that this mockery was pretty funny.

Another couch-gripping game was the Golden Knights versus the Los Angeles Kings in a double overtime marathon. With this game lasting about 100 minutes, the Knights took away game 2 from the Kings resulting in a 2-1 marathon. Kings goalie, Jonathan Quick, finished the game with nearly 54 saves on 56 shots. That must have been a rush for him once that game was over. Vegas’ Marc-Andre Fleury saved 29 of the

led the team with 28 points. Embiid has missed some times after having to have surgery after one of his games due to a fractured orbital bone back in late March and has not played any games after the incident. Despite his condition, the 76er’s did well in game one with a solid performance without Embiid’s assistance. If Embiid is able to come back, Philadelphia may be able to route the Heat and make it to the second round.

In the Western Conference, Stephen Curry might be able to make a return to the Warriors’ starting lineup in the semifinals. Curry suffered a sprain during late March and again will likely return to play for the Warriors in the semifinals. Curry is currently happy with his recovery progress after his injury. During a live Warriors broadcast, Curry stated that “he had no setbacks” and that “every day has been something good, advancing the rehab process.”

During the broadcast, Curry was excited and looks forward to making more progress as we get towards the playoffs.

In a 20-minute interview, upon being asked how the recovery process has been treating him, Curry responded, “It’s been an interesting two weeks so far. Just trying to get some rhythm, some strength back, some flexibility, range of motion, all that type of stuff,”. After being ruled out for at least three weeks due to his injury, during this season, Curry has played in 52 games, averaging 24 points, five rebounds and six assists per game.

Another event that occurred during the NBA playoffs, LeBron James has mastered the first-round knockout for the season. But as the season continues, James isn’t going to take on the Pacers lightly, despite his overall performance throughout his NBA career. “It’s going to be a very good matchup,” said James. He also stated that as the regular season goes up, down, and sideways for the Cleveland Cavaliers and with the postseason finally arriving, this is the moment where James shines the most.

As the playoffs continue, we can only expect more to come.

30 over about five periods. Erik Haula finally broke the tie in double overtime resulting with the Knights taking the W.

Sproting News

Sidney Crosby

David Pastrnak gets excited

ESPN

Embiid and Curry eager to rejoin their teams as the first round of NBA playoffs tips off

BRIAN SWEENEY Staff Writer

During this year’s NBA playoffs, sixteen teams are currently in the first rounds of the playoffs. In the Eastern Conference, the Toronto Raptors and the Philadelphia 76er’s took the lead during their first game of the opening round. The Raptors were able to secure their first win in the opening game of playoffs in franchise history after going 0-8 in past years. In the Western Conference, the New Orleans Pelicans were able to cruise past the Portland Trail Blazers in game one and the Golden State Warriors blew by the San Antonio Spurs.

Despite that these teams are currently in the middle of the first round of playoffs, there are various things happening in the league.

Rumors of center Joel Embiid might be able to make a comeback for the 76er’s are swirling around the league.

This would be huge for the team to have their best player to come into play during the second or third game.

Embiid has officially passed the NBA’s concussion protocol but was held out in the 76er’s game two loss to the Heat, as Heat guard Dwyane Wade

Joel Embiid on the court

Sporting News

Steph Curry celebrating a three

NBA.com

Weekly Scoreboard baseball

Men's lacrosse

Apr. 18 vs. St. Mary’s (W) UMW: 20 CNU: 3

softball

Apr. 18 vs. CNU (L) UMW: 1 CNU: 10

Apr. 14 vs. Salisbury (L) UMW: 10 CNU: 20

women's lacrosse

Apr. 14 vs. Salisbury (L) UMW: 10 Salisbury: 11

Men's Lacrosse

Apr. 21 vs. Marymount (Va.) TBA

women's lacrosse

Apr. 21 vs. Marymount (Va.) TBA

baseball

Apr. 21 @ Frostburg St. TBA

softball

Apr. 20 vs. Frostburg St. TBA

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VIEWPOINTS

Facebook cares more about corporate success than user privacy GRACE WINFIELD Senior Writer

Founded in 2004, Facebook is the most popular social network worldwide.

According to Statista, Facebook acquired 2.2 billions members by the of the fourth quarter of 2017, the members varying in nationality, age, and sexual orientation.

Most users view the site as a way to update their friends on their lives and to easily stay or get connected. What they aren’t realizing is that Facebook, with its pros, is doing more harm than good. The destructive site is intentionally manipulating members into addiction, and selling their rising data for profit.

In a statement released mid-March, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) confirmed their current investigation of Facebook’s data practices in wake of the Cambridge Analytica scandal.

According to the New York Times, the firm was found to have harvested and sold private information of its members from the Facebook profiles of more than 50 million users without their consent, in a release from former Cambridge employees. With the information, the company exploited private social media activity to various companies, as well as in relation to the 2016 elections. The techniques developed and data acquired was applied to President Trump’s 2016 Campaign and aided Russian interference and advertisement with the elections. The Facebook data leak is one of the largest in social network’s history.

Cambridge Analytica, a political research firm that combines data mining, data brokerage, and data analysis with strategic communication for the electoral process, is funded in large part by Robert Mercer. Mercer donated money to President Trump’s election campaign, in turn helping the Trump campaign target political ads on Facebook.

In retaliation to the privacy concerns, several prominent figures and companies

have deleted their Facebook accounts, including Will Ferrell, Cher, and Mozilla.

Brian Acton, co-founder of WhatsApp, a messaging app, tweeted to his followers March 20, “It is time. #deletefacebook,” in wake of the recent breech discoveries.

WhatsApp was acquired by Facebook in 2014 for 19 million dollars, according to CNBC. Facebook’s meandering goes beyond the corporate and political spectrums. They’re in your head.

Chamanth Palihapitaya, who previously served as Facebook’s vice president for user growth, expressed his guilt and concern for members’ privacy and mental health in a recent interview with CBS. “We have created tools that are ripping apart the social fabric of how society works,” said Palihapitaya. He continued, “the short-term dopamine driven feedback loops that we’ve created are destroying how society works. (There’s) no civil discourse, no cooperation, (just) misinformation, mistruth. Bad actors can now manipulate large swaths of people to do whatever you want…You don’t realize it, but you are being programmed.”

Sean Parker, Facebook’s first president before being let go in 2005, spoke about the moral misconduct at a recent event at the National Constitution Center. “You’re exploiting a vulnerability in human psychology…The inventors, creators — it’s me, it’s Mark [Zuckerberg], it’s Kevin Systrom on Instagram, it’s all of these people — understood this consciously.

And we did it anyway,” Parker said.

These previous Facebook employees aren’t speaking out of vengeance, either.

Researchers are now focusing on the effect social media use and engagement has on the brain, both physically and mentally. “According to several recent brain imaging studies, severely affected Internet addicts show structural and functional

Op-Ed: First Year Experience is valuable THE ORIENTATION TEAM Contributing Writers

This past week an article titled, “Expensive first year student program should be optional”was released regarding what some believe to be negative aspects of the First Year Experience.

Initially, it seemed as though the main purpose of this article was to focus on the cost of the program as a whole, however as students who have attended and worked for the program, we feel this article was severely misguided and misinformed. Orientation and New Student Arrival are essential in cultivating one’s experience at Mary Washington. Whether that be through relationships that they have created with fellow students and faculty, or getting acquainted with the university as a whole, these programs are invaluable for all incoming first-year students.

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For so many, Orientation provides a sense of newfound confidence and helps you foresee what your community might look like for the next four years. There are many activities to choose from, but this is because you will never be in a space where everyone around you is experiencing the same process. While this could be tiresome or uncomfortable, building a community begins with making connections with the people around you. If it were not for Orientation, building relationships would become increasingly difficult. It is these very relationships that many statistics have proven to have the greatest effect on a student’s college experience.

For Mary Washington specifically, it has been proven time and time again that this program is successful in many ways.

brain abnormalities similar to those found in people with substance abuse problems.

Other research has shown that Internet addiction frequently coexists with anxiety, depression, or an addiction to other things like alcohol or drugs,” said CBS. In Zuckerberg’s first appearance before Congress on April 10, 44 senators had five minutes each to question him directly, not giving much time for big developments or follow-up questions. The topics of these questions varied, including consumer privacy, Facebook content and tech regulations.

When asked about storing and selling user data, Zuckerberg responded, “Yes, we store data ... some of that content with people’s permission.” He continued, “there’s a very common misconception that we sell data to advertisers. We do not sell data to advertisers. What we allow is for advertisers to tell us who they want to reach, and then we do the placement …

That’s a very fundamental part of how our model works and something that is often misunderstood.” If this is true, then how did Cambridge Analytica get its hands on our data?

“What my understanding was that they were not on the platform, [they] were not an app developer or advertiser. When I went back and met with my team afterwards, they let me know that Cambridge Analytica actually did start as an advertiser later in 2015,” said Zuckerberg in his own defense. He continued, “So we could have in theory banned them then … When we heard back from Cambridge Analytica that they had told us that they weren’t using the data and deleted it, we considered it a closed case. In retrospect, that was clearly a mistake. We shouldn’t have taken their word for it. We’ve updated our policy to make sure we don’t make that mistake again.”

Does Zuckerberg believe he sounds

honest when he claims he and the others of Facebook decided to take the company’s “word” that they had deleted the information? If he were truly responsible with our data, if he really cared about the ethics of utilizing user data, why would he not have investigated the breach to further ensure and preserve user privacy? To save his image.

Facebook leaves us less happy, less satisfied, and less confident with our ever-expanding connections. Despite the mounting evidence of the social network’s negative effects, users still can’t shake the app, myself amongst them.

In today’s world, it is nearly impossible to land a job, or be a functioning participant of society, without a digital identity.

Even if we do delete Facebook, how will we trust that its other company, Instagram, or another social network like Twitter, won’t misuse our data?

Here’s what we do know.

Facebook treats its users as statistics, as tools to expand their wealth and company. They are manipulating the way we think, both about the world around us and ourselves. Facebook has allowed itself to fall into the black hole of deception in order to aid politicians, businessmen and whoever else with a fat enough wallet, in their scheme of mass manipulation, and they’re leaving your mental health and security behind.

Regulation is going to be necessary, and Congress has the power to do it. Companies like Facebook are imposing on our freedom by accessing our messages, browser history, contacts and locations, and using them for their own monetary incentive. Anyone who sincerely wants a free, open and innovative Internet needs to work across partisan divides to protect user privacy.

The retention rate of the university as a whole has increased, there is a satisfaction rate amongst students who have attended orientation of 94 percent, and students frequently reference how instrumental orientation was to the beginning of their time here.

Orientation Leaders have had the unique position of being able to experience the program from multiple angles.

Each of us went through the orientation experience, whether that be as incoming first years or as transfer students, as well as semester-long training in the spring and summer in order to help make this the best possible program for incoming students and their families. Through this program, staff from numerous disciplines were able to come together with this shared interest of creating the best experience for new students. In doing so, we gained an incredibly influential and unique leadership position on campus.

Additionally, we were able to continue this position into the fall semester as Peer Mentors, where we were able to further aid in the social and academic transition of students. While we were required as Peer Mentors to put on several events throughout the semester, the stu-

dents were able to decide for themselves whether or not they wanted to attend. We served as an important resource students could choose to utilize, much like one would with the Writing Center, Speaking Center, or Digital Knowledge Center.

It deeply saddens us to read an article that does not accurately portray the First Year Experience: a program which we experienced as students and a program which we went on to serve as leaders in. The time and consideration spent to develop and improve this program with each coming year has proven to have a positive effect on students. Statistics aside, as leaders we were able to see the change in these students first-hand.

Many of us have kept in touch with our orientees and mentees, and still serve as a resource for them well beyond their first year. The concern and care we have for our incoming students are the reason so much time and energy are devoted to this program. Because the harder we work to help foster relationships and build a community for first-year students, the more our campus becomes a home for everyone.

Sincerely, The Orientation Team

Thursday, April 2018 Thursday, January 21,19, 2015

VIEWPOINTS

Editor: Ginny Bixby | blueandgray.views@gmail.com

Staff Ed: Blue & Gray Press staff reflects on 2017-18 academic year

By THE BLUE & GRAY PRESS EDITORIAL BOARD

Over this past year, the Blue & Gray Press staff has worked hard to produce high quality journalism. Our mission is to serve the University of Mary Washington and greater Fredericksburg community with timely and accurate news.

While we have made mistakes over the year, we have worked to correct our errors and address the criticisms of the paper.

The purpose of a student newspaper is to have the room and security to learn and grow outside the classroom setting. While we strive to produce hard hitting articles, we are still a group of student editors and writers. We are learning the craft of how a professional newsroom runs and we extend an invitation to staff, faculty, administration and students to continue to help us develop high quality content.

This paper is for the community. We rely on our staff and community writers to provide articles covering all different aspects of campus. We want The Blue & Gray Press to be a platform for all students, so all students have the opportunity

to write an article for the paper.

This year we have decreased our print circulation to 1,000 copies. This has helped us put more of a focus on our online presence. This year we have also put a focus on quality photographs in the paper. Last year “Blue & Gray TV” was introduced. We have not had the time to further develop the project, but next year we plan to make BGTV a focus.

We have also discussed the possibility of having a “Breaking News Blog” on the website. This is still just in the idea phase.

The blog would cover daily news in the Fredericksburg and UMW community.

As our last issue for the year is coming up, we turn back to our motto “Campus news with student views.” Our staff consists of nine editors and around 50 staff writers. We know that we don’t stretch fully across the UMW community. We rely on the rest of the campus to help us be the best paper that we can be. Only with that support can we fully live up to our purpose and motto.

Op-Ed: UMW Dining’s prices are too inflated ALEXANDRA COOPER Contributing Writer

College is expensive. I think that is something that most people can agree on regardless of if you live on campus or live off-campus and commute every day.

As a residential student, my family pays for on-campus housing and a meal plan in addition to my tuition. I have the 225 block and $200 flex meal plan, but I still find myself with so many extra Flex dollars at the end of the semester that I don’t know what to do with the leftover money.

I think it’s great that UMW Dining offers students the option to purchase or donate cases of drinks and soup to those in need during the last few weeks of the semester with their leftover Flex, but have found the prices to be ridiculously expensive and completely unreasonable.

Last year at the end of my freshman year, I bought a case of Dasani water from the Nest with my extra Flex at the end of the spring semester. It cost $48 Flex dollars. While I was happy to use my extra Flex dollars so I didn’t waste the money my parents were required to spend on the Eagle Plan, I was shocked at the prices!

I can understand marking up prices a little bit so that UMW makes some type of profit from the purchase, but I could have bought that same case of 24 Dasani water bottles at the Target at Central Park for $4.99! That’s almost a difference of $43 between buying it on campus and buying it at a local retailer. For the same amount of money, I could buy nearly ten cases of water which I’m sure any organization would welcome having during the summer months.

Recently I made a joke on social media about Flex being UMW’s very own Bitcoin given its excessively high market value, but it also begs these questions: Why are the prices so high for a case of 24 bottles of water, and what is UMW Dining doing with that extra $43 I would be spending?

I can imagine spending nearly $50 or more on drinks at warehouse clubs like BJ’s or Costco, especially if you were planning on buying multiple cases of water and soft drinks. The purpose of those stores is to buy items in bulk so consumers can get increased savings on the products they need to purchase. It makes sense to spend that kind of money when you can get a larger quantity. You don’t have to be an economics major to understand that is more bang for your buck.

However, college students should not be paying that much for one case of water, especially if they are trying to use up their extra Flex at the end of the semester.

UMW Dining needs to take a good, hard look at their drink and soup case prices and reconsider how much they are charging students for these items. If they don’t want to change their prices, I think UMW Dining should at least consider donating one or two cases of drinks or soup to the Fredericksburg Area food bank for every order placed by students during the ordering period. I might feel a little bit better about spending all that Flex if they did their part to justify the cost by donating a few cases for each order to help the less fortunate in the area.

UMW should address local opioid crisis VANISA CLAY Staff Writer

If you watch the news or follow social media, you are well aware that the country is in the middle of an opioid epidemic. As a daughter of an ex-addict, I know very well the residual effects of drug addiction.

These effects can be seen throughout Fredericksburg and the surrounding area. The increase in the homeless population, increase in drug overdoses and an increase in theft and burglaries are tell-tale signs of an uptick in drug use in the area.

I haven’t lived here long enough to say I can personally see the increase, but I can definitely read the signs.

I work at a gas station in Culpeper, and on a regular basis we find drug paraphernalia, mainly needles, and we service people who are obviously high on something. In talking with some of the police officers that come into the station, many have expressed that they’ve experienced a rise in drug use and violent crime in the area. I can also say that out of all the stations I have managed over the years, this area seems to have the most property damage, aggressive customer incidents and loitering from homeless people that I’ve experienced.

Just to put this in perspective, I worked at station in the middle of two areas known for drug use and violent crime- Park Place and Lambert’s Point in Norfolk, Virginia. I honestly can say that I never came across as many incidents there as I do in Culpeper, nor would I expect to.

If you have the mindset that “drug use is not a problem here” or “that can’t happen here” when tackling the issue of drug abuse, you are part of the problem. As many all over America are learning, an uptick of drug use can pop up anywhere.

No longer is this just an issue for big urban areas. This can happen in suburban areas like Fredericksburg and Culpeper and even rural areas. In 2017, Fredericksburg reported six deaths out of 35 opioid overdoses, Stafford reported 111 opioid overdoses with 16 deaths, and Spotsylvania reported 188 overdoses with 17 deaths. This is evidence of a very serious issue.

Keep in mind, these numbers have risen over the past few years. In Culpeper, where I first really encountered the issue, between 2013-2015 41 people died from drug overdoses. In 2017 alone, 41 people died from drug overdoses. That was in just one year. The Virginia Department of Health said that the number of deaths

Pina Messina/Unsplash.com

from drug overdoses has surpassed the number of deaths in car accidents in the first quarter of 2017. 888 people have died in car accidents, while there have been 1,498 deaths due to drug overdoses. So yes, it does happen here.

Now I could be wrong, and I know that UMW wants to be more inclusive of the surrounding community, but I don’t see any outreach programs, community programs, or anything being done on campus to tackle the opioid crisis. This is not to say there aren’t programs for underage drinking or for drug abuse, because there are. But if there is an initiative to help combat the opioid issue specifically, I cannot find any information on it, which is telling. This begs the question; what is UMW doing and what can UMW do in the community to help people overcome opioid addiction?

Seeing that UMW is right in the heart of Fredericksburg downtown area, blocks away from where two deaths from overdose occurred this past January, there must be more we can do. This also may not be an on-campus problem yet, but with the risk so close to home, shouldn’t we get ahead of it? During the heights of the crack crisis, Norfolk State University had a clinic through its nursing program where people could come and try to receive help for addiction, among other things.

That is maybe something UMW could look into, given its own nursing program.

I don’t have all the answers, but I do see a problem that just doesn’t affect the user and the dealer, but all of us as a community.

Nancy Pham/The Blue & Gray Press

The Hot Spot is one of the campus dining facilities where students can spend flex dollars.

5

LIFE

Editor: Lauren Closs blueandgray.life@gmail.com

Check out the Blue & Gray Press’ April Lookbook on blueandgraypress.com or on the Blue & Gray Press Youtube Channel.

Carly Hanson, Sophomore Look: Brilliantly Blossoming Carly loves to show her talents by creating what she calls “art for your face.” She tries out new looks often and feels confident and ready for the day when she gets to highlight the things she loves about herself.

Ahad Shahid, Senior Look: Cool, Collected, and Confident Ahad uses clothing and fashion to his advantage by reflecting on his personality. He likes to make every piece he wears his own, and makes sure to express himself exactly the way he wants to be.

Photos by Savara Gunn

Erin Foster, Freshman Look: Easy, Breezy, and Colorful Erin uses her creativity and love for the arts as inspiration for her day-to-day style. She likes to take inspiration from previous decades and find ways to apply them to modern fashion, making them both comfortable and stylish.

UMW Theatre presents ancient Greek tragedy with “Medea” LINDSEY BROWN Senior Writer

Lydia Hundley [Medea] did an extraordinary job portraying “Hell hath no fury like a woman this character. From the various scorned,” a paraphrased line from personas she displays throughout William Congreve’s play “The Mourning the play, to the anger driven Bride,” describes Euripides’s Greek decisions she had to carry tragedy, “Medea” so well. This story of out, Hundley’s versatility and a woman scorned has been told many dedication to the role is evident. times. The story of Medea is like no Neil Gallini-Burdick [Jason] other; it’s a heart wrenching tale of a did a wonderful job of being a woman who gave everything up for a pompous jerk who believes he man, only for him to leave her for his is justified in ruining his family. own political aspirations. “Medea” is the His arrogance and reactions to latest UMW Theatre production in Klein Medea’s anger are spot on with the Theater. facets of the character.

The first scene opens to a sorrowful Alexander Rios [Creon] cry from Medea offstage, as the Nurse portrayed the mean tyrant with an [Elisa Davis] begins to tell the story. evil quality that was intimidating.

Her monologue begins with her wishing The Tutor [Jacob Dodges], was that certain events had not occurred at a kind soul, who took care of all: “For then my mistress Medea would Medea’s sons, and brought a light never had seen Jason. Nor loved and to the stage with his positivity. saved him. Nor cut herself off from Aegeus’ character [Sterling home to come with him into this country, Heyns] acted as a beacon of hope From left: Jess Elkins ’20, Lydia Hundley ’19, Maddie Petroskey Geoff Greene / UMW Theatre of the smiling chattering Greeks, and for Medea and her sons. The three ’20, Alexander Rios ’18, Elissa Davis ‘21 the roofs of Corinth.” This scene women who played reporters anyone who dared to go against her. is so powerful and moving with [Sarah Green, Madison Neilson, The set was made of huge columns that the Nurse’s love and worry for and Erin Foster] were intrusive loomed over the actors on stage. The Medea, and it sets the tone for the and judgemental of Medea and columns held up Medea’s home, and entire play.

Jason’s situation. The two boys, there were large ominous doors with After Medea sacrificed who played Medea’s sons [Leo lifelike snakes on the handles that add to her title and all that she knew Herrin and Aidan Caffrey] were the terror of Medea’s wrath. The size of for her husband, Jason, she is extraordinary young actors the doors and columns set the tone for heartbroken and enraged when he portraying the tough roles of the show by portraying Medea’s strength. leaves her to marry the daughter children caught between their The costumes, designed by Kevin of Creon, king of Corinth. parents’ wrath.

McCluskey, added to the characters’ Afraid that Medea will inflict It was obvious that the presence on stage. Medea’s costume her witchcraft on Corinth, Creon director, Helen Housley, wanted especially, spoke volumes to her power banishes her and her two sons, each character to stand out, and beauty. Her dress was a royal blue giving her only a day to prepare. but at the same time Medea’s with gold accents at the bottom and a With her remaining time, Medea strength and anger were the collar that gave her a royal quality. She makes a deal with Aegeus the most prevalent parts of the removes the blue outer layer of the dress childless king of Athens to help show. This powerful story at one point, and has on a simple white him have a child in exchange was well performed, and the dress beneath that gives her an air of for refuge in Athens. The rest direction was well portrayed vulnerability. of Medea’s decisions unfold a through each actor.

Each part of the show was as story of pain and sorrow, which The scenic designer, Michael powerful as the story being told on stage. brought the audience to tears.

Benson, focused on making The UMW Theatre Department should Medea’s cries of agony over the set as powerful as Medea’s be very proud of this production. her pain and sorrow rang through From left: Elissa Davis ’21, Madison Geoff Greene / UMW Theatre anger, and it is evident that “Medea” will run from Apr. 12 to Apr. Neilson ’21, Sarah Green ‘19. the entire room. the set was meant to intimidate 22 in Klein Theater.

Thursday, April 19, 2018

LIFE

Activists gather at Multicultural Fair, spread messages KELSEY SHEFFER Staff Writer

For 28 years, the Multicultural Fair has been a vivacious place for the Fredericksburg community and beyond to celebrate cultures from near and far. The fair is known for its amazing cultural performances as well as its wide selection of vendors; however, the role of activism has never been an advertised part of the event. Yet, for years, there have been community organizations that set up tents to advocate, fundraise and spread the word about their issues.

Moms Demand Action is one of the groups that was in attendance at the Multicultural Fair. This organization founded a Rappahannock Chapter less than a month ago, and they hoped by setting up a booth, they would not only be able to advocate for gun control but to also spread the word about their founding. They were present at the fair for almost seven hours and were very happy about the response they got from the community, filling multiple sign-up pages. Moms Demand Action Rappahannock Chapter will meet on Apr. 27 at Hartwood Presbyterian Church in Stafford County and encourages the community to participate in creating an educational atmosphere about gun violence.

LGBT Democrats of Virginia have been present at every Multicultural Fair since their founding over five years ago.

The organization returns for multiple reasons, but Cindy Bray, treasurer for the organization, stated that it is primarily

due to the “like minded people” that who have attended the Multicultural Fair gerrymandering in Virginia is an attend the fair. Bray went on to say for years and thought that it would be a important fight and one that is possible that due to the “hateful environment great platform to spread word about the to win. today” towards the LGBT community, upcoming adoption of an amendment to Students Helping Honduras is a very it has also become increasingly more the Virginia Constitution that will put active student group on campus as well important to become present as an in place an independent commission as nationwide. The organization is even organization for LGBT rights. At more important to Fredericksburg the fair, they distributed bumper due to its founding at UMW by an stickers as well as had voter alumni 11 years ago. Since then, registration forms. Bray stated the organization has flourished all that every year is an important around the nation with a mission year to vote and this year, despite to alleviate poverty and gang being a non-presidential election, violence in Honduras by creating is still important because local jobs and schools. They have been elections affect voters directly. present at the Multicultural Fair for LGBT Democrats of Virginia had years and it continues to be a very an amazing response from the special booth for the community community with dozens of people since the first donors were from signing up to vote and grabbing Fredericksburg. During the fair, “Proud Democrat” and “Virginia they set up fun games that tested is for all Lovers” stickers. The how long one could hold two cinder organization encouraged students blocks as well as a brick building to start engaging not only with the game in order to raise funds. community, but more specifically Students Helping Honduras uses with organizations on campus like 100 percent of the proceeds to build Young Dems and PRISM. schools in Honduras. They call One Virginia 2021 is a themselves the sidekicks rather than community organization that has the hero because they are not doing become very active on campus the majority of the labor. Instead, the past month by holding events they supply the funds to hire skilled and speakers as well as asking SHH’s booth at the Fair. Students Helping Honduras / Facebook workers from the community to for students to sign petitions. The build the schools that their children organization is a state non-partisan group to draw the voting district lines rather will attend, and on breaks, students from that advocates for fair redistricting in than elected politicians. They too said the organization will go help. the Commonwealth of Virginia. They they had a very good response from the For many organizations, the state that this issue is a local one to public because it is an issue that both Multicultural Fair is not just a place Fredericksburg since the city is divided sides can agree on as well as it being for the community to celebrate in half and reshaped with more rural an important issue to Fredericksburg multiculturalism, but also a place for the locations that “don’t share the same and the surrounding area. One Virginia community to organize around issues interests.” The group is full of locals 2021 wants to remind everyone that that affect the community and beyond.

Performances at the UMW’s 28th annual Multicultural Fair

LOW’n’BROWS Traditional is a German “Oompah” Band with their specialties ranging from polkas and waltzes to other traditional German “Hofbräuhaus” music.

All members of this indie pop band, Wylder, are alumni of the University of Mary Washington. They performed on the George Washington Hall Stage.

Photos by Shyan Murphy

In front of Monroe Hall, the UMW Belly Dance Team put on a spectacular five-minute performance.

In addition to the performances that were captured on camera, 27 other performances took place throughout the fair. Campus walk was lined with various pop-up vendors, and Ball Circle had multiple food vendors, several bounce houses and a face painting tent. 2018 was yet another successful year for the UMW Multicultural Fair.

At the Trinkle Stage a folk group, Violet Bell, was performing. The two group members are Lizzy Ross and Omar Ruiz-Lopez.

The Ewabo Caribbean Trio performaned at the Lee Hall terrace.

This group performs high-caliber reggae, calypso and Latin music.

By Ball Circle, a martial arts school offered demonstrations and allowing patrons of all ages to try their hand at martial arts.

7

Weekend Events

Thursday

Friday

• UMW GMB Pies Save • Holi @ Ball Circle, 4 p.m.

Lives @ In front of Lee Hall/Ball Circle, 11 • Pitch Perfect 3 @ a.m. - 4 p.m.

Monroe 116, 7 p.m. 9 p.m.

• BellACappella & The Deansmen @ Ball Cir• Medea @ Klein Thecle, 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. atre, 7:30 p.m.

• Medea @ Klein The• UMW Rich Weirdos atre, 7:30 p.m. and Film Society present Reefer Madness @ Digital Auditorium, 7:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.

• Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle @ Monroe 116, 10 p.m.- 12 a.m

@theBlueandGray

Saturday

Sunday

• Relay For Life @ Chandler Ballroom 2 p.m. - 8 a.m.

• Spring Open House @ Gari Melchers Home and Studio, All Day

• Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle @ Monroe 116, 7 p.m.- 9 p.m.

• Performing Arts Company @ Dodd auditorium, 2 p.m.

• Performing Arts Com- • Medea @ Klein Thepany @ Dodd auditoriatre, 2 p.m. um, 7:30 p.m.

• Medea @ Klein Theatre, 7:30 p.m.

• Pitch Perfect 3 @ Monroe 116, 10 p.m. 12 a.m.

BlueandGrayPress

The Blue & Gray Press

LIFE

We The Kings and T-Pain perform at CPB’s Spring Concert GRACE HOWIE Contributing Writer

On Thursday, Apr. 12, the University of Mary Washington welcomed We The Kings and T-Pain. With the help of volunteers, the Campus Programming Board transformed the Anderson Center into a concert venue fitting of these two artists.

We The Kings opened with an energetic, nostalgic performance.

Starting with “Check Yes Juliet,” a song that my inner 14-year-old couldn’t help but belt out since I still remember all the lyrics. One of the students who came specifically to see We the Kings was junior Sean Bermingham, who said that “We the Kings [was] the best performance that UMW has ever had.”

Frontman, Travis Clark, is really good at what he does and the between song commentary never felt forced. One highlight We The Kings. was a story he told about the song Secret Valentine, in which he used Tetris as a metaphor for the first time he had sex to make it more ‘school appropriate’.

Seniors Emma Wallace and Timmy Caish told me that they thought, “they were awesome and have a great personality. Their interaction with the crowd was incredible.” The energy that the band was able to sustain throughout the set, particularly in a way that hyped up the crowd for T-Pain, made a difference on the overall experience of the show.

In the past at Spring Concerts, especially with artists of different genres, the momentum between sets sometimes falls flat. Caish said that he “liked the

mix because some students want one genre versus the other. It was a good mix of both, and I think targeted more students on campus.” This year, the two genres worked, and I think it was heavily impacted by the constant excitement that We the Kings facilitated by asking the crowd if they were ready for T-Pain or mentioning him. Everyone I talked to thoroughly enjoyed them, and most had been there in anticipation of this band, the nostalgic aspect was a huge strength for them. Bermingham added, “it’s all

Grace Howie / The Blue & Gray Press.

about keeping the hype up and losing your voice.”

When T-Pain came on, and the crowd went wild. Sophomore Ellie Kilmon said she thought “people [were] more excited for T-Pain,” and I agree. He is objectively the bigger name with more recognizable songs, however the majority of the songs he sang were ones that he is featured on, meaning he would play a short section before transitioning into another. It was very jarring, and while I understand, as some of these features are the more well-known things that he has done, it was overall a dissatisfying performance. The whole set was weird. There were long breaks between songs, in which he would go

talk to his DJ leaving the crowd in slight confusion before delving into another hit without any sort of comment. T-Pain also repeated a few songs more than once, and that to me just didn’t sit quite right.

Was he just singing what he thought people wanted to hear? It almost felt like, especially with the breaks, that he hadn’t really planned which was disheartening from an artist of this size, since there had been so much expectation for his performance from the students.

The Spring Concert is what you make

be a continuing problem in the future as it has been in the past.

Overall, it was great night. Both performers played good sets with recognizable songs, and I think CPB tried really hard this year to give the campus what they wanted. However, I asked everyone that I talked to whether or not they had taken the survey to select the artists, and of those that had, whether or not they were happy with the outcome. Everyone said they weren’t particularly pleased with the outcome.

There will never be a perfect way to allow the student body to comment on or choose who we get for the Spring Concert, but I think there may be greater disappointment for students when they see some of those bigger names as options, and then we don’t get them. But I do want to acknowledge that even if the people I talked to hadn’t voted for T-Pain, somebody did, and those people Grace Howie / The Blue & Gray Press. were probably too busy T-Pain. it, and for some people, like sophomore enjoying the show.

Sam Hartz, “it’s a gorgeous, beautiful, My takeaway is that I think CPB and magical night.” For others like should take every aspect of a show into juniors Maddie Ullestad and Mike Stys, consideration, not just getting a big it was “too long and too hot,” so they name. Just from talking to the students left early. They left 15 minutes into who were there, it was evident that the T-Pain’s set, the artist that they had presence of a real band was preferential specifically come to see but noted it’s over a DJ/ backing tracked set. This was “not a reflection of the show or those also the case last year, as Waka Flocka who planned it.” Part of the reasoning played a set to backing tracks while as Stys told me was that “people started D.R.A.M played with a live band. It’s getting too rowdy.” This is a problem just an incredibly different and almost every year, that is not anyone’s fault more authentic experience, especially other than those attending. UMW as considering the price we’re paying for a whole is not a good audience. There these artists. This was my last Spring were fights, complaints of pushing Concert, but don’t doubt I will be and a large amount of students seemed checking CPB’s social media to find out somewhat intoxicated. I foresee this to who we’ll have next year.

Paid to do homework: campus jobs that give you freetime VICTORIA GRANT Staff Writer

Getting paid to do homework is like killing two birds with one stone.

Some on campus jobs allow you to do homework on the clock, while others do not. With finals approaching, working for an office or department that is more understanding about studying at work can be exceedingly beneficial.

At Blackstone Coffee, there is very little time for employees to study or get homework done because of all their responsibilities.

Freshman Blackstone barista Zara Burns said, “At Blackstone, there are lots of responsibilities that keep you busy.

I like to keep my work and homework separate and give my full attention to my job when I am on shift.”

Burns stated that even though she doesn’t get homework done at work, if she manages her time correctly she has enough time to work on her schoolwork and get it all done.

Having a job where you are constantly answering phones, doing office work and talking to other students can make it difficult to have free time for homework on the clock.

Freshman Ashley Duke works in Student Accounts and said, “I get very

student first.” little work done because of the Ruhlen works for Student constant line of phone calls and other things I must attend to at Activities and Engagement at work.” the service concierge desk in the University Center.

Duke stated that because of “For the majority of my everything she must attend to three hour shifts, I normally when at work, she will usually spend the time doing only do about 30 minutes of homework each time she is at homework. Some days are more demanding than others if her job. we have a lot of events going Being able to focus on on, but for the most part we homework at work can be hard can spend our time at the desk since you are still at your job doing homework,” Ruhlen and have to focus on that as said. well.

Ruhlen goes into work Senior Courtney Merson knowing that she will get works in the Hurley homework done. She stated, Convergence Center at the info “For the majority of my desk. Merson said, “I am not Senior Nathan Neri and junior Aaron Reynolds / The Blue & Gray Press. focused when doing homework Alyssa Ruhlen work at the SAE concierge desk in the UC. shifts I always intend on doing homework while I’m there; it because I have to still do my helps me budget my time.” job first.” stressed because I know I can fit in some It seems like working for Student On average, Merson said she gets homework time.” On average she does Activities and Engagement at the Service about 20 minutes of homework done about an hour of homework each time Concierge desk is one of the jobs on every hour. she works. campus that gives you the most time to Scheduling is everything when it Being a student should always comes do your homework and study while on comes to managing time and working first so it is convenient to be able to do the job. at a job. Freshman Marine Beausergent homework while working. Junior Alyssa With finals coming up and students works as a student aide in the College of Ruhlen stated, “Sometimes it seems a Education. Beausergent said if she makes little overwhelming, but my job is very trying to balance school and work, being a schedule ahead of time it is easy to understanding when it comes to school able to study at your job is definitely a weight off of your shoulders and can manage her time. work. SAE, and especially my boss, Alec help in the long run.

Beausergent stated, “I feel less Mallmann, always says that you’re a

9

NEWS

Call for change: UMW community weighs in on available safety options

•MACE | 1

under the Code of Contional both in terms of having individmonwealth University website. VirginParks and Recreation Department. The duct. uals look out for one another in terms ia Commonwealth University allows course, called Rape Aggression DeUMW records do not indicate any of community engagement, as well as mace but bans pistols, switchblade fense (RAD) teaches students how to occurrence that instigated the creation to take the traditional safety precautions knives, and other weapons. There is a defend themselves without items such of the policy. Although there may not when it comes to getting around campus page dedicated to the “Do’s and Don’ts as knives and mace. have been an instigating incident insafely, the residence halls, and so forth.” of using pepper spray” and mentions According to Deputy Sheila Jones of volving mace, UMW administration Other campus officials, such as Chief how it is available to purchase in the the Fredericksburg Sheriff’s Office and officials voiced their long term RAD instrucconcern of the danger tor, mace is not encourmace has to the universiaged or discouraged.

“I personally wouldn’t see a reason why someone who needs it for self ty community.

“We just advise studefense couldn’t avail themselves of something like [mace]...to have [mace] dents to seek training on A d m i n i s t r a t i o n ’s perspective weapon they carry,” at their disposal seems to me to be reasonable and maybe a good practice.” any Originally unfamiliar Jones said. to the policy, UniversiReed said that if ty of Mary Washington there was enough partic-President Paino President Troy Paino ipation, it may be feasiadmitted that there were ble to teach a class just other faculty members who were “exof Police Mike Hall, echo Rucker’s refuniversity bookstores. dedicated to UMW students. perts” compared to him on the policy, erence to other safety features of UMW. The College of William and Mary Students call for change but he still provided his opinion on the One feature that Campus Police enis another example of a Virginia higher While administrators hold to their ban. courages students to take advantage of educational facility that allows students concerns regarding mace, many stu“I personally wouldn’t see a reason is the UMW Rave Guardian System, a to carry mace. On their “Weapons, Firedents call for change regarding the polwhy someone who needs it for self smartphone app which has various feaarms, Combustibles, and Explosives” icy. defense couldn’t avail themselves of tures to aid students. page, the university differentiates beSophomore Ashleigh DiBenedetto, a something like [mace]...to have [mace] The app provides students emergentween weapons and self-defense tools, survivor of sexual assault, prefers to be at their disposal seems to me to be reacy communication with safety officials, with mace and pepper spray falling unin control of how she can protect hersonable and maybe a good practice,” such as campus police or the Frederder the latter category. self. said President Troy Paino. icksburg police, in case they are in an If students wish for the policy to be “I feel safer knowing I have some According to administration, in 2015 unsafe situation. changed, Landphair suggests they go means to protect myself should I find there was an incident involving mace The app also provides students the through the Student Government Assothat I’m in a dangerous situation again,” in Virginia Hall. During fall semester opportunity to set up a guardian system. ciation.

DiBenedetto said. “I don’t personally move in a mace device was discharged Users can make a peer or family mem“If students came to me and said think the school should tell me I can’t by accident. The chemical went into the ber a guardian of them in the app, who ‘look, we really think we should reconbecause it’s not a private institution.”

HVAC system and contaminated the they can message and call if they are sider this policy because of safety’, then Communications major Andrew residence feeling the SGA is a really good place to start Schneidawind agrees that it should be h a l l . unsafe. with that,” said Landphair. “Because the student’s’ choice to carry mace.

UMW poA safethe SGA president who is on the Board “I guess from a practical standpoint, lice, safety ty timer of Visitors could present it to the Board it makes sense that mace isn’t allowed,” and Fredcan also of Visitors, and that’s where you see Schneidawind said. “But I think stuericksbe set on change happen.” dents should have the option of being burg pothe app, Other potential options able to [mace or pepper spray].” lice were which alLt. Patrick Reed, a police officer of Sophomore Rahima Morshed asserts called and lows the 16 years at the Fredericksburg Police that administration must take into acresolved guardian Department, has mixed feelings about count that dangerous situations can still the situto see mace as a defense tool. happen on a small campus. ation in how their “[Mace] can be an good defense tool, “The administration must understand under two contact if you’re properly trained on how to use that just because we are 4,400 students hours. is doing. it.” Reed said. “Because it can have a on campus does not mean that we will Only a few days into her new posiIf the user does not make contact with negative impact if you’re not.” not encounter events like these,” Mortion as vice president, Landphair retheir guardian before the safety timer During Reed’s law enforcement exshed said. “And especially for being a called hearing about the incident. is up, the guardian is able to see the perience, he has seen the negative imcampus that does not have locks on the “That’s when I kind of learned a phone’s location and check in on the pact mace can have if used by someone insides of academic buildings, it is imcouple of things,” said Landphair. “I person to see if they are safe. who isn’t trained. The chemical can be portant that a student, if they do wish, learned that we had the policy, I learned Could policies change? an hazardous if discharged near a person to carry a defense device and that the that it’s incredibly effective. Affecting Landphair, said the policy could who is asthmatic, according to Reed. administration gives them that right.” in that you can see why some people change if students pushed strongly for However, Reed stated that mace isn’t “This is public university and a pubcall pepper spray a weapon because the it. the only defense students have and there lic space,” senior Alex Sakes said. “At a impact was so severe on all of those “With pepper spray, I think we would are ways for students to defend themhistorically female college I believe that people who rushed out of the hall.” be really open to reconsidering this polselves without the defense object. the administration needs to do more to The incident in Virginia Hall is a icy if it appeared that it was something “If you’re in trouble, anything you empower it’s students to feel safe, and leading reason in why administration is that the students felt really passionately have can be a weapon,” Reed stated. allowing non-lethal methods of self dewary of mace on campus. about and that it were accompanied by “Fingernails, pin, keys. Stop and think fense is a step in the right direction.”

Cedric Rucker, associate vice presisome educational aspects,” said Landabout it.”

“Mace could be the difference bedent & dean of student life, commented phair.

According to Reed, the Frederickstween stopping a sexual assault or even that mace poses the danger of “comproA model of such an educational burg PD teaches self defense training death for an individual and it needs to mising the community” as it did in the component is on the Virginia Comto women and children through the be an option for all,” Sakes said.

Virginia Hall incident.

It is situations like the discharge in the residence hall which prompt hesitancy by administration to allow the chemical on campus. The incident in Virginia Hall is the most recent harmful incident regarding mace that law officials and campus administrators could recall.

Safety on campus Rucker said there are a “variety of other supports” for students to use such as the blue light system. Though mace is banned, Rucker emphasized that administration’s goal of student safety.

“We encourage our students to take a comprehensive approach to their safety and well-being,” said Rucker. “One of UMW Archives Website the things that we try to do is be educaThe campus wide ban on mace first appeared in the Student Handbook in the 2013-2014 school year.

“I am not supportive of this policy because there have been rapes on campus and I feel like I should be able to protect myself.”

-Sierra McCahon

10

Thursday, April 19, 2018

NEWS Mellinger has big plans for the future

•MELLINGER | 1

the kind of leadership that will enable us to address our current challenges [and] strength[s],” said Provost Mikhalevsky.

Mellinger, is the recipient of a national writing award from the Mathematical Association of America and a research grant from the National Security Agency, according to Morrison’s EagleEye article.

Mellinger says that he finds his drive and motivation [to make improvements and changes] from within himself.

“I’m very self motivated,” said Mellinger. “I really like new challenges. The newness of the challenges that come up is exciting and reinvigorating each time.”

As Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Mellinger hopes to continue to promote UMW’s positive and niche characteristics that the general public may not know about.

“We really have a wonderful place to work and a wonderful place to study.

This is a beautiful campus with strong academic programs,” says Mellinger. “[The location] is great. [UMW] has a much bigger culture of service and undergraduate research.

Mellinger hopes to use the stories of UMW students, both current and alumni, to spread the message about the University’s strengths.

“We have a lot going for us,” said Mellinger. “Our challenge is that we are in a very competitive market and there are a lot of really good schools in Virginia. We can’t deny that.”

Mellinger hopes to further promote the University’s highly engaged faculty. He also hopes to promote the undergraduate research budget that far exceeds anything he has seen from talking to his peers at other institutions.

“We support things like funding for faculty development in a much stronger way than other schools do,” said Mel-

linger.

Although the University has many positive and noteworthy aspects that Mellinger hopes to promote, there are a few changes that he would like to see happen in the near future. One thing that Mellinger feels is crucial to improve upon is the economic facets of the University.

“In my opinion, we don’t recognize enough the work that faculty do outside of the regular classroom teaching,” said Mellinger.

He said that the University needs to find proper funding for salaries and that our expectations being based around classroom teaching is a little short sighted.

“Economics have hurt us a lot in the past ten years,” said Mellinger. “UMW faculty and staff have not seen a raise in their pay and that is a big challenge. It’s been demoralizing.”

As far as the general reputation of the University goes, Mellinger feels that there can be drastic improvements. He wants the student body to know that he will work on improving the image of the University of Mary Washington.

“I’m definitely going to work on better promoting the amazing things that students are doing here,” says Mellinger. “I just got done reading an honors thesis in my department, Mathematics, and it blew my mind.”

Talking to deans and faculty at other schools has allowed Mellinger to even further grasp that UMW is an amazing place.

“We really have a wonderful place to work and study,” said Mellinger. “One thing that I’ve learned in the last year, is that it seems like we only ever hear about the problems. [Our campus] has all of the things that you are looking for in higher education. We have trouble getting that message out and we have to figure out a way to [promote] that more.”

Student Government Beat Monday, April 16 - Friday, April 20 The 2017-18 Executive Cabinet and Student Senate both met for the last time this week. At both meetings, members discussed the year and went over various successes/improvements and any still pending items that will be resumed next semester.

The Senate approved revisions to the SGA Election Rules and Procedures Handbook to bring it into compliance with the new Constitution, update older sections, and close several loopholes.

The 2018-19 SGA will take office on Thursday April 19th.

We’ve enjoyed serving this year, and the incoming SGA can’t wait to hit the ground running in the fall! Stay tuned and come visit us at Club Carnival to learn how to get involved!

Good luck on finals Eagles!

DETAILS PROVIDED BY MATTHEW GOOD

Thursday, April 19, 2018

On April 16 the last official 2017-2018 SGA meeting took place.

UMW SGA Twitter

Student Government Association cabinet wants to expand on student relations •SGA | 2

Oversight Committee.

“We recently voted in a new SGA constitution, so my duties will be to help ensure the transition goes smoothly and the new rules and regulations are upheld, especially in the Senate meetings,” said Skinner.

It will be her senior year and she is excited about the impact she will have in her new role and how she will finish out her final year at UMW. Skinner also

it may bring.

“I am looking forward to the new system of government getting under way. It will help ensure quality motions that correspond with student needs, are getting passed and UMW overall will improve as a result,” said Flood.

“Something that I would like to see change on campus are the rules regarding hanging flags on the walls,” Flood said. “Currently we are allowed to hang

“My goals for the upcoming year will be to identify any issues with the constitution and make necessary amendments.”

-Mary Skinner shared what she thought when it comes to her goals for next year.

“My goals for the upcoming year will be to identify any issues with the constitution and make necessary amendments,” said Skinner.

Sophomore, John Flood, the Student Senate VP for next year is excited for the upcoming year and the changes that

a flag on our window as long as it is sprayed with fire retardants. However, I believe that this same rule should be extended to apply to hanging flags on walls as well.”

“My overall goal would be to accurately represent student interests,” said Flood.

Administration listens to student concerns •BUDGET | 2

prospective students in choosing a school, and having a proposed budget by that deadline allows them to get the financial aid information to students as soon as possible.

Former Virginia State Senator and current member of the UMW Board of Visitors Edd Houck was in attendance, and asked the students to share how the price increase would affect them personally. The students brought up issues ranging from taking off semesters to work, the mental health implications of not being able to pay for school, and the potential burden on families.

“Next year I’ll have two daughters in college myself,” said Paino. “I’m aware of the burden this puts on families. This forum is a part of an ongoing effort to be more transparent, and to hear from the students how these decisions affect their lives.”

Of the approximately 10 to 15 students in attendance, many of them felt that it was their duty to represent the views of others who could not be there,

but would still be affected by these proposed budgetary changes.

“I chose to attend the meeting because I am involved in a lot of student government organizations, and I feel that it’s a part of my responsibility to make sure that I’m not only going to all of the student events on the calendar, but also that I am representative of those views at these forums” said freshman Alexander Lee. “I think it’s important to show up, and not only hear what the administration and the faculty have to say, but also what fellow students are saying,” said junior Jordan Seurattan.

Several students brought up their own struggles with financial aid, and the difficulties they already face in paying for college. The administration had representatives from account management and financial aid in attendance, and invited all students to discuss their individual situations one on one after the meeting to ensure that students were supported in their efforts to keep their education affordable.

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SPORTS

Editor: Ryan Brauch | blueandgray.sports@gmail.com

Salisbury handles UMW men’s lacrosse 20-10

ALISON ERB Staff Writer

With two games until the first round of the CAC tournament the University of Mary Washington Men’s lacrosse team brought their game this past Saturday, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Salisbury. The Eagles had a great start during the first part of the game with good defense and communication. The first two goals of the game where scored

by Shane McKenzie with an assist from Robert Tata on the second goal.Thereafter Salisbury dominated the rest of the first quarter.

There were multiple turnovers of the ball between the first and seconds quarters of the game as well as a couple of faceoffs. During the faceoffs Salisbury would yell to distract the Eagles to prevent concentration and communication to make a goal. However UMW was able to prevail from these conditions on a few occasions.

The second quarter started and only three minutes in the Eagles scored due to the effort of Conor Healy. Salisbury took over for the rest of the quarter until Chris White scored a goal with a minute

and six seconds to go with the assistance of Cole Hogan. By the end of the second quarter the score was 4-8 with Salisbury up by three.

During half-time the team conversed about their first two quarters, and warmed back up the last five minutes. As soon as the whistle blew to start the third quarter, the Eagles had a second wind about them. Only a minute and a half in the energy of the eagles drove Owen Digman to score a goal with the help of his fellow teammate Shane McKenzie.

The only other goal scored by Mary Washington occured a couple minutes later by Owen with an assist from Chase Kapuscienski. It wouldn’t be until late in the final quarter that the Eagles would score four more goals.

The last goal was shot with one second left in the game by Vinny Smiroldo who couldn’t have done it without Alex Olson. Although the Eagles played with spirit and technique they still weren’t able to pin Salisbury on the field because of their good offensive and defensive strategies, this left the final score at 10-

20.

Next week there is a game at Marymount, Drew Delaney the team’s head coach stated some interesting words after the game.

“We need some rest and we need to be able to get our legs back underneath us, and we got an important game against Marymount to ensure us to be in the conference playoffs” stated Coach Delaney.

Coach Delaney also said that they could have done better in the game against Salisbury.

“It comes down to possessions and I think that our wingplay on the faceoffs needs to improve, and I think we have to clear the ball more consistently and handle the ball under pressure.

The goalie Billy Senicola had a tough time out there against Salisbury, but he still fought until the very end and stayed positive. When Senicola was asked how the game could have gone better he gave a positive and upbeat answer.

“Obviously we could have executed better, I thought we prepared well going

in, and all we can do is watch film and prepare for Marymount next Saturday” stated Senicola.

Although Mary Washington lost Senicola still had some positive outlook on the game.”It was a four goal game at halftime, and we were able to play a game with one of the best teams in the country it shows that we can play on that level we just have to play a sixty minute game.

Owen Dingman a captain of the team is also being optimistic about next week’s game and it’s results. Dingman also shared what he thinks is the most hard part about the sport lacrosse.

“It’s a game that requires so much physical ability, but in the end you need a lot of finesse and technique it is a combination of a lot of things,” said Dingman. “You have to be physically able to play the game, but you also have to have the skill level to catch the ball and shoot the ball. That’s what I love about it.”

Owen Dingman heaves the ball downfield

UMW Athletics

Miles Davis finding a way to score

UMW Athletics

Mike Colgan looks down field

UMW Athletics

Billy Senciola with a big save

UMW Athletics

Thursday, April 19, 2018

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