The Blue & Gray Press

THE

BLUE &GRAY

THE UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON STUDENT NEWSPAPER

SEPTEMBER 11, 2014

VOLUME 88 | ISSUE 2

PRESS

SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE

1922

University closes discussion on divesting school investments

Courtesy of Zakaria Kronemer

IT IS UNLIKELY THAT THE BOV WILL BE INTERESTED IN FURTHER CONSIDERATION OF THIS ISSUE.

MARIAH YOUNG Managing Editor

- President Rick Hurley

Mindful eating, mindful habits: Mindfulness Week returns LAUREN GRANT Staff Writer

This upcoming week marks the second annual Mindfulness Week at the University of mary Washington, which educates students and the local community on the benefits of meditation and mindful eating.

For those unfamiliar with “mindfulness,” let alone “mindful eating,” this week is all about learning to engage with the unfamiliar.

Beginning Monday, Sept.15, daily, hour-long interactive presentations are planned to introduce people to mindfulness practices.

Students will be offered opportunities to participate and practice meditation while guided by regional and national experts and scholars. Among the guest speakers are a Sri Lankan monk, a Brown University professor, an author, a zen master and some faces from the UMW community as well.

Angela Pitts, professor of classics, philosophy and religion played a major role in successfully bringing Mindfulness Week to UMW again this fall.

“The goal of mindfulness is connect with the present moment, in a place of awareness and non-judgment. You can live moment to moment and practice this during any activity, cooking, eating, Pitts said.

“We want to educate people on mindful eating especially, being aware of what we are taking in, connecting to the nutrients and fully experiencing the flavors and textures while respecting what our bodies

IN THIS

ISSUE

need.”

Pitts hopes that students will learn to pay attention to the health of their minds and bodies, understanding the difference between being satisfied and hungry and resisting compulsions. Chocolate lovers are invited to participate in the experience of mindfully eating chocolate during one of the week’s events. Above all Pitts wants the message of mindfulness to stay with students for longer than a week.

“It’s about overall well-being,” Pitts said.

Senior biology major Tom Bryson found the idea of Mindfulness Week to be interesting, but expressed concern that the event has very little active promotion to get the student body interested or aware.

“There hasn’t been enough information around campus to advertise it or explain it, but I would definitely be interested in checking it out now,” Bryson said.

Ellen Peiser, a senior history major sees the Mindful initiative to be a good idea, but not well promoted or explained and placed at an in-opportune time during the semester.

“I hadn’t heard about the event or its purpose before now and I don’t think timing is ideal,” Peiser said. People are just getting into their semester and things are speeding up.”

The week kicks off on Monday in Lee Hall Room 412 at 4 p.m. with a discussion about contemplative studies. More information about the week’s scheduled events can be found on the UMW website in full detail.

The University of Mary Washington Board of Visitors will not be considering withdrawing investment funds from fossil-fuel profited companies, as recommended by DivestUMW, a student group at UMW that promotes the divestment of fossil fuels.

“We are trying to encourage our administration to withdraw some investments from the fossil fuel industry,” senior philosophy major Zakaria Kronemer, a co-founder of DivestUMW “We are trying to clean our endowment of dirty energy.”

According to the UMW BOV minutes from the Annual Planning Retreat this August, Jeff Rountree, CEO of the UMW Foundation, reported on the aspects of socially responsible investing.

The minutes stated, “Most investments made by the UMW Foundation are in diverse funds that money managers frequently move around. There are no investments in individual company stocks; thus it would be extremely difficult to isolate from the funds any investments in particular sectors of the economy.”

The student organization met with different members of administration and the BOV throughout last year, but little progress was made, according to Kronemer.

“Toward the end of the year, we realized that we were getting pushed from administrator to administrator, and just getting the same answer continuously, not getting any further,” Kronemer said.

According to University President Rick Hurley, this is not the case.

“Staff from the UMW Foundation met with them, I met with them alone and then again with the Rector of our BOV, plus the chair of the BOV’s Administration and Finance Committee to listen and understand their position,” Hurley wrote in an email.

“Finally, a full presentation on the issue was made to the entire Board of Visitors, so I think we have completely and carefully considered the matter.”

Kronemer disagreed. He argued that the university administration does not want to continue dialogue on the matter.

“After the BOV retreat, we received a message from Hurley, essentially saying that they came to a decision not to consider divestment. We replied asking if the door to dialogue is closed, and he confirmed that they do not want to continue negotiation regarding it.” Kronemer Hurley said that continuing conversation would repeat what was already said in meetings. He also said that it is “unlikely

•DIVEST | 11

Eagle Nation Day brings together community and athletics

•SPORTS | 12

Ginny Clark/ The Blue & Gray Press

WATCH OUT

GREEN ONLY?

EAGLE NATION

What to watch this fall and when to catch it

Do political statements have a place in cultural parades?

UMW athletics interacts with the community

LIFE | 6

VIEWPOINTS | 4

SPORTS | 12

NEWS

Editors: Hope Racine & Nephthalie Lauture | 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.

9/11

EDITORS-AT-LARGE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Alison Thoet

MANAGING EDITOR Mariah Young

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jonathan Polson

SECTION EDITORS NEWS Hope Racine Nephthalie Lauture

Courtesy of Kim Seng/ Flickr

Why do we need to remember?

WE NEED TO REMEMBER IT’S CRUCIAL TO THE FAMILIES WHO REMEMBER HOW OUR HAVE TO GO ON EACH DAY COUNTRY CAME WITHOUT TOGETHER IN THE THE LOVED ONES DAYS AND MONTHS THEY LOST. AND YEARS AFTER.

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Connor Janney Freshman

VIEWPOINTS Tess Osmer

LIFE

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Connor Carmichael Freshman

Former VA Gov. Bob McDonnell found guilty

Amanda Motley

SPORTS Chris Markham

ONLINE Lauren Brumfield

PHOTO

Ginny Clark

ADVERTISING TEAM AD MANGAGER Jasmine Rice

BUSINESS MANAGER Cara Sexton

FACULTY ADIVSOR Steve Klein

campus briefing 9/11 Remembrance: The UMW Association of Student Veterans and the entire UMW community will join together in tribute of 9/11. The event will take place at 8 a.m. in front of George Washington Hall.

Family Weekend: Family Weekend will take place on Friday, Sept. 19 to Sunday, Sept. 21, 2014 on the Fredericksburg campus.

Ferguson: A candlelight vigil in remembrance for those affected by the events in Ferguson on Ball Circle at 8 p.m Sept. 11

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Courtesy of Virginia Department of Transportation/ Flickr

KRISTY JU Staff Writer

Former Virginia Gov. Robert McDonnell and his wife, Maureen McDonnell, were charged with corruption by the federal jury on Thurs. Sept. 4.

The couple was found guilty of accepting $177,000 worth of luxury vacations, gifts and sweetheart loans from a businessman Jonnie Williams Sr., in exchange for using the governorship to promote his company.

McDonnell, a popular Republican governor once viewed as a contender for presidential candidacy, was convicted of 11 out of the 14 counts he was charged with.

Maureen McDonnell was convicted of eight of the 13 counts she faced.

The jury acquitted the McDonnells for failure to disclose loans from Williams former CEO of the dietary supplements company Star Scientific Inc., in a loan application.

Gasps and sobs from family members filled the courtroom after the repeated word “guilty” was read, according to Reuters.

“This involves a lot more than just the damage to the reputations of the governor and Maureen McDonnell,” Stephen Farnsworth said, professor of political science and international affairs and director of the University of Mary Washington’s Center for Leadership and Media Studies. “This shatters families.”

During the five week trial, 67 witnesses were called, with Williams providing the main testimony. Williams was granted im-

munity from public corruption charges in exchange for complying with investigators in examining his business relations with the McDonnell family. “[McDonnell] had solid support from Christian conservatives; he had a record of accomplishment as governor with his transportation bill and he had an ability to connect with moderate voters,” Farnsworth said. “He had as good a set of circumstances as anybody for potentially running for president in 2016, before he met Johnnie Williams.”

Prosecutors argued that the McDonnells conspired to use the prestige of the governor’s office to promote Star Scientific and Anatabloc, the company’s main product.

“In essence, McDonnell provided spe

•MCDONNELL | 11

Thursday, September 11, 2014

SPORTS

Sports world put on hold by 9/11

CHRIS MARKHAM Sports Editor

The national anthem is the most popular pre-game song in America, played at just about any sporting event. Up until Sept. 10, 2001, it was not uncommon for players and fans to ignore our nation’s song in favor of their own thoughts and worries of the moment. But this all changed with the next day’s events, a day that changed much about the U.S. and once again made the national anthem a force of pride.

After the 9/11 attacks, most the world of sports was put on hold. The NFL canceled its games for the upcoming week, acknowledging the fact that it was far more important for personnel to be with their loved ones as everyone continued to try to come to terms with the events that had transpired. NASCAR postponed the New Hampshire 300 for the same reasons.

As time passed, we realized that things had to go back to normal eventually. The games, which were first seen as irrelevant in comparison to the attacks, were eventually recognized as a vital part of the healing process.

The first major sporting event in New York after 9/11 was the Mets vs. Atlanta Braves game, 10 days after the attacks. The two division rivals graciously took part in a game that obviously meant much more than a pennant race. Atlanta Brave Chipper Jones admitted that he was terrified heading into the game, pointing out that what better place for terrorists to strike again than at a major league ballpark.

The fans attending the game were not particularly cheering for a specific team, but rather for the nation as a whole, sending a message to those responsible that we would not lie down.

Redskins fall short in opener even worse. After the Redskins’ lone score of the day, a one yard touchdown run by Coming off of a disastrous 2013 season, fullback Darrel Young, kicker Kai Forthe Washington Redskins looked to right bath’s extra-point attempt was blocked by the ship in their season opener against the Watt leaving the Redskins with a meager Houston Texans. Instead, the Redskins lost six points. Tress Way, Washington’s puntthe game 17-6, continuing a league worst er, also saw a punt blocked and returned for a touchdown by the Texans’ Alfred Blue. nine-game losing streak.

The Redskins’ defense played relatively Plagued by untimely mistakes and turnwell, only allowing one big play, a 76-yard overs the Redskins struggled in the loss. touchdown reception from Texans quarOn consecutive drives in the third quarter, terback Ryan Fitzpatrick to wide receiver Washington turned the ball over in the red DeAndre Hopkins.

That one score, howzone, first coming when third year quarterever, would prove to be too much for the back Robert Griffin III tripped over a lineRedskins to overcome. man’s foot while trying to hand the ball off “Our defense played fairly well throughto running back Alfred Morris. The play out the game, we gave up one huge play on resulted in a fumble that was recovered by defense, then we failed to get (Houston) off Houston’s defensive end J.J. Watt. The secthe field at the end of the game,” Gruden ond came on the tail end of a 48-yard catch said.

“Its frustrating,” he added. and run by Redskins tight end Niles Paul.

J.J. Watt was the star of the game for Texans safety D.J. Swearinger popped the the Texans.

Watt, who recently signed a ball out of Paul’s hand and Houston’s Kensix-year, $100 million contract, recorded a drick Lewis recovered the fumble. sack, a blocked extra punt, recovered fum“It’s inexcusable to have turnovers ble, a pass deflection, three tackles and five in the red zone, it really is,” first year quarterback hits.

Redskins’ head coach Jay Gruden said in Sunday’s game obviously did not go as the post-game press conference.

Gruden intended to start the season.

As poorly as Washington’s offense “You only get one chance at your first played, their special teams unit played time and I failed to get it done. We failed as a staff, failed as a team to get it done,” Gruden remarked.

“We feel good about the group we have. They are all good players, good leaders and we will just move forward.”

“No one wants to go 0-2, and that’s our focus right now we want to get to 1-1,” Griffin III said after the game.

The Redskins will now look for their first win this Sunday at 1 p.m.

Courtesy of Bob Levey/Getty Images SEAN KINSLOW Sports Writer

Courtesy of Marine Corps New York

In the bottom of the eighth inning, Mike Piazza hit a two-run home run that gave the Mets a 3-2 lead and proved to be the game-winning hit. His swing has often been looked at as the prime example of the healing power of sports.

As the rest of the sports world returned to normal, tributes continued to be paid by athletes. Every NFL team wore 9/11 patches on their jerseys to remember the victims, and many NASCAR drivers had American flag patterns painted on their cars. It was not until the following season that signs of the 9/11 attacks were gone from sports.

In times of great tragedy, people have a chance to look at life a little differently, be thankful for what they have and place differences behind them. Sports are often used by many as a remedy to cure physical or emotional pain. Some may use sports as an escape from the real world, while others use it to pay tribute to those they have lost.

When the national anthem is played, take time to understand the importance of it and why it is played before the games.

Picture the emotion on the faces of those at the Mets vs. Braves game on Sept.

21, 2001 when the national anthem was played. That is the power sports have on us as a nation, showing to those that try to knock us down that the American spirit is stronger than any other.

Men’s soccer enters with high expectations for 2014

DAVID MERCER Staff Writer

As the summer culminates and the fall semester begins, the University of Mary Washington men’s soccer team is preparing for another exciting season of play.

Last year, the team finished with an overall record of 12 wins and seven losses. This record placed them fourth in the Capital Athletic Conference at the end of the season.

As the team trains for the fast-approaching season, head coach Jason Kilby defined the environment as “exciting.”

“The players are producing at a high work rate,” Kilby said. He noted that there is a “definite positive energy” floating around the locker room and on the practice field.

Kilby also expressed his excitement about the team’s freshman class.

“This is a really good and intelligent freshman class that needs to adjust to the college game,” Kilby said.

He noted that the new team members will provide a good contribution to the chemistry the rest of the team already has.

In addition to the freshman class, Kilby said he is thrilled about his returners pointing out goal keeper Tyler Back, defenders Elvin Arbaiza and Nick Shepherd and a host of other veteran players that would motivate their teammates and leave their marks on the field. Kilby described the team as “technical” and “a team that can handle the ball and get forward.”

“The team has to come with a lot of energy and create pressure,” Kilby said.

The team will kick off the season without injured right back Carlos Vasquez.

However, Vasquez said he intends on doing anything that he can to help his team-

Weekly Scoreboard Field Hockey:

Sept. 7 vs. Roanoke College (W) UMW: 12 Roanoke: 0 Sept. 10 vs. Bridgewater (W) UMW: 3 BC: 0

Men's Soccer:

Sept. 10 vs. Catholic University (W) UMW: 5 Catholic: 1

Women's Soccer:

Sept. 7 vs. Rowan (W) UMW: 2 Rowan: 1 Courtesy of umweagles.com Sophomore Connor Nogueira is one of many key additions to this year’s men’s soccer squad.

mates succeed.

One key addition to the team is sophomore Connor Nogueira, a transfer student from George Mason University. The sophomore has shown his ability to get the ball forward, pressure the defense and create scoring opportunities in the few games that the team has already played. GMU is an NCAA Division I school, but when Nogueira spoke about the transition from Division I to Division III, he said “there wasn’t a big player drop-off.”

“We have a lot of good players that come together to make a good team,”Nogueira said. “I am excited to play with a new group of guys and want to make a good contribution to the team so we can win some titles.”

Another player expected to play a big part in the team’s success is sophomore center back Elvin Arbaiza, a returner who

is excited for the new season.

“I feel that I am a part of a strong and talented team with a good freshman class that can make things happen,”Arbaiza said. “There is a total team mentality to win a CAC championship.”

The whole team seems to be coming together as one at the right time. The whole team is ecstatic for the season and ready to win.

“The ultimate goal is to be CAC champions and earn an NCAA tournament bid,” Kilby said.

Since the solid start, the team hit a rough patch, losing back-to-back games after a 1-0-1 start. But the team got off that rough patch with a decisive 5-1 win over Catholic on Sept. 10. Their next home game will be Sept. 30 after a four-game road trip.

Sept. 10 vs. Messiah College (L) UMW: 0 Messiah: 5

Volleyball:

Sept. 9 vs. NC Wesleyan (W) UMW: 3 NCWC: 0

Upcoming:

Field Hockey: Sept. 14 vs. Shenandoah 1 p.m. @ Home Men’s/Women’s Tennis: Sept. 13-14 UMW Kickoff 9 a.m. @ Home Men’s Soccer: Sept. 13 @ Kean 1 p.m.

Women’s Soccer: Sept. 13 @ Meredith 2.p.m.

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VIEWPOINTS

LGBT community breakthrough sparks controversy

St. Patrick’s Day Parade opens its door to LGBT community.

COLEMAN HOPKINS Staff Writer The politicization of The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City highlights everything that is wrong with the current political world: politics, now more than ever, are being crammed into everything and anything, whether or not it is appropriate or relevant. After receiving heavy criticism over the past decades for not allowing L.G.B.T. rights groups to use the holiday as a forum for political demonstration, the organizers of the parade folded this year, granting L.G.B.T rights groups a spot in the parade under their own banner.

However, critics are speaking out against these groups, saying it is irrelevant to the parade and its meaning.

Critics go even further to say that it is disrespectful that activists would rather march under the banner of their sexuality than their heritage, undermining the parade’s intention to celebrate a common cultural background, as well as the feast day of St. Patrick.

While some have hailed this as a moment of triumph for L.G.B.T rights, others view the decision as a slap in the face to the culture of St. Patrick’s Day and its religious history, which is very conservative.

In the New York Times article, GLAAD president Sarah Kate Ellis was quoted saying, “It’s about time; Discrimination has no

Photo courtesy of Flicker user Phil Long

place on America’s streets, let alone Fifth Avenue.”

Critics claim that by bullying their way into the parade, those in the L.G.B.T community are doing themselves, and the parade, a disservice by turning a 253-yearold cultural celebration into a political statement. Moreover, some feel as though the L.G.B.T. groups are acting selfishly by interjecting their sexual preferences and politics into an apolitical event, effectively undermining the cultural aspect to the annual parade.

On the even farther end of the religious spectrum are those who view the parade, and any parades and celebrations, as a misinterpretation of what the day is supposed to mean.

The Huffington Post writes that the Washington, D.C. Archdiocese issued, and then retracted, a statement attacking St. Patrick’s Day Parades in general, calling them “disgraceful” and noting that the outlandish celebrations are only falling farther downhill once politics enter the mix.

Moreover, the Archdiocese stressed that St. Patrick’s Day is not about sexual preferences or about getting drunk and wearing green, it is about going to mass and praying or reflecting on St. Patrick’s life and his vision for the church.

Furthermore, the L.G.B.T. community has never been banned from participating as individuals. They were not allowed to

Editorial: staff reflects on 9/11

We will always remember where we were when we heard the news. Whether it was at home, school or work, we remember.

On Sept. 11, 2001 the nation lost 2,996 loved ones. Every generation has at least one major tragic event that defines it, whether it is the Kennedy assassination, Pearl Harbor, Watergate, the Great Depression, the Vietnam War or any other.

For our generation, what some people consider the “millennial generation,” we have seen our own share of events, whether it be 9/11, the war on terror or the 2008 recession. We might be the “the millennial generation,” but we do not let these tragic events define us – instead, we work to make the world a better place.

Everything that happens to us is somehow interconnected, and a lot of it can arguably surround the events of 9/11, but we must continue to be the generation that does not become apathetic toward our government.Some consider the millennial generation to be a negative term because we are perceived as “lazy” or “demanding,” but the millennial generation captures everything that has happened in our lives, and how we have adjusted to it.

We have grown up in a culture full of loss, but also love. We are a generation that does not stand for injustice. We hold the greatest amount of financial liabilities

because we understand the importance of higher education. But despite our ideals and our sacrifices, there is much more to be done.

There is approximately $1.1 trillion of outstanding student debt, the average borrower owes $27,547, and the number of student loans increased by 31 percent since 2007. We value an education that we cannot afford.We are still dealing with everyday racial tensions, a recovering economy, unemployment and gun violence.A white officer uses deadly force against a black person almost two times a week, according to the FBI. We are at a 6.1 percent unemployment rate, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.There has been more than one school shooting every week while school is in session, according to the Huffington Post.We are always making moves and trying to change the status quo, and that is not a bad thing.Millennials will never forget 9/11, because in a large part it helps define us. We will never forget, and we must continue to move forward.

The Blue & Gray Editorial Board extends our sincerest condolences to the families and friends of those who were lost on Sept. 11, 2001.

By THE BLUE & GRAY PRESS EDITORIAL BOARD

march under their own banner, but they are allowed, like anyone else, to take part in the parade as individuals.

Being a family-oriented, cultural celebration, I think that it would be best to remove the politics and the grandstanding from the parade itself as it has been in years past.

L.G.B.T. communities have every means and every right to get their message out, in PSAs, in rallies, as well as through social media, but interjecting their sexuality into a religious holiday is simply irrelevant to their goals and cause. Hopefully, moving forward, peo-

ple will stop taking themselves so seriously and act a little more maturely when trying to express their political and social ideas so as to avoid infringing on the celebration of others’ religious and cultural backgrounds.

Photo courtesy of Flicker user Charlotte Marllet

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Young Democrats thank senator Former editor supports revamp

Photo courtesy of the Young Democrats

The University of Mary Washington Young Democrats would like to extend their sincere thanks to Senator Mark Warner for hosting the “Almost Annual Collis-Warner Pig Roast” on his King George, Virginia property this past Saturday. The Young Democrats of Mary Washington were not the only college political group in attendance, democratic delegations from universities across Virginia were present at this very well attended event, and political

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conversation was plentiful as students and campaign leaders met to discuss the issues and to eat delicious food.

This event was billed as a Pig Roast, so naturally there was plenty of pork for everyone, but, thoughtfully, there were also vegetarian options.

Little details like this were the hallmark of the event, which had, in addition to great food and political conversation, lawn games, kayaking, boat rides and was decorated with hay bales like pigs.

All of our expectations about this event were exceeded upon arrival, and thus we were also delighted to get the chance to meet Senator Warner himself, to shake his hand and to take a photo with him.

So, it is with grateful hearts and full stomachs we address our thanks to Senator Warner for hosting such a wonderful party, and our thanks for being such an integral part of Virginia politics.

By the University of Mary Washington Young Democrats

They say a good liberal arts education teaches you how to think critically, which is why the current discussion, or lack thereof, around The Blue & Gray Press’ name change is disheartening.

Instead of having an informed conversation about the merits of the name change, students seem content to believe a sensationalist article from the same news source that has claimed, among other things, that a feminized setting led to the mass shooting at Sandy Hook and that liberals brainwash women into believing they have been raped.

Whatever name The Blue & Gray Press is under, it is still the same newspaper that has served the University of Mary Washington community since 1922; it is still run by the same editorial staff whose qualifications and intelligence I can personally

account for.

Few are more critical of them than me, as I hold them and the paper to the incredibly high standard I know that they are more than capable of achieving.

Accordingly, they tailor the paper to speak to the open-mindedness of UMW’s students, faculty and alumni.

If you disagree with the editorial board’s decision on the name, great, let them know as they are always open to hearing from the community they serve.

Just come bearing constructive criticism and not sensationalist rhetoric.

By Alex Van Beek Alex Van Beek is a 2013 graduate of the University of Mary Washington. While at the University, he served as news editor from Jan. 2012 until May 2013.

Thursday, September 11, 2014

VIEWPOINTS

Editor: Mona Osmer | blueandgray.views@gmail.com

New nail polish line sparks controversy

Detect drugs at the tip of your finger

LEAH VAHJEN Staff Writer

Photo courtesy of Undercover Colors Facebook Page These four North Carolina students are making headway with their savy line of nail polish.

Photo courtesy of Flickr user Melanie Tata This brand of nail polish can detect spiked drinks at the tip of a finger, saving you the night.

U.S. intervention in Somalia sheds a more positive light MONA OSMER Viewpoints Editor

However, we do understand human beings and their right to live safely, protected by their government instead of persecuted by it.

In instances such as these, I believe the United States will do what it has always done, fight for democracy.

It is not intrusive, for in the past, no matter the cost, we have sought to protect groups of individuals who have fallen victim to extremist regimes.

The U.S. has repeatedly gone against the grain when other countries did not step up to the plate and responded to attacks against humanity.

Where the United Nations has been unable to rise to the occasion on this and similar instances, such as the Syrian Civil War, the U.S. extended its hand anyway.

United States military forces have started to conduct naval and tactical missions in Somalia in an attempt to aid the Somalian government in destabilizing and destroying the Al Shabab terrorist network.

Similar to groups such as the Islamic State in Syria, Al Shabab’s major goal is to convert Somalia into a fundamental Islamic state.

Several drone strikes were conducted

by U.S. forces, which have successfully taken out members of the Al Shabab group. This aid is immensely helpful to the Somalian government, as this is a fight that they have been battling for more than five years. It was only in 2008 that Al Shabab was deemed a terrorist group.

As of last Many critics, week, the forsuch as Paul BledA country as powerful as the mer leader of soe, a writer for the the Al Qaeda U.S. should set standards for National Interest Somalian affilMagazine, claim that the International community iate to the Al the U.S. is intrusive Shabab group and strengthen social norms. in this way, by seekwas killed by a ing to be “a global U.S. airstrike, policeman.” a clear intimBledsoe also idation tactic. writes that “the digConsequently, ital age has made inthere was not citement of cultural hatred and resentment any activity from the Al Shabab group unalarmingly easy and efficient, creating avtil Monday, Sept. 8th, when as many as 12 enues for the mobilization of extremism. civilians were killed in a suicide bombing Add the ease of modern travel and gaining targeting African Union troops. physical recruits from around the world to What these accounts reveal is that excarry out incursions becomes similarly entremist groups like these will never stop abled.” fighting for their goals. Their beliefs are In summary, Bledsoe argues that the their way of life, and, in some cases, their U.S. mobilizes its forces against extremist way of death. regimes to be perceived as a moral and just It is important to know that we will figure head in international politics. never understand this culture of dying and But what is wrong with that picture? A killing for a belief system that wants to country as powerful as the U.S. should set overthrow multiple governments. We as standards for the international community Americans live in a society where our govand strengthen social norms that protect ciernment is not being overthrown, nor have vilians in oppressive regimes. we ever witnessed such an event first hand.

issues that arise from sexual violence.”

Four male college students in Raleigh, When influential women of the meNorth Carolina and their budding brand, dia and experts alike make claims like Undercover Colors, recently captured the these, consumers are left with the imattention of numerous media outlets with pression that the founders of Undercover the unveiling of a nail polish with the ca- Colors are intending their products solepability to detect the presence of common ly for the use of college-going womEn; date rape drugs such as Rohypnol, Xanax a sentiment that they never expressed. and GHB. The group is currently creatMeanwhile, the victims discussed in ing a line of products with the hope that these anti-product articles are solely identitheir innovative nail polish and subse- fied as women being raped by men, an issue quent products will help “empower wom- that correlates with the only negative crien to prevent sexual assault,” according tique I have against the Undercover Colors to their self-written Facebook description. brand in general: women can be the perpeThough the product is not yet slated to trators and men can be the victims of rape, launch, Undercovas well. In a 2014 er Colors explained article on Slate.com, on their Facebook Hanna Rosin points page that the polish Countless women like out that “a recent works via chemianalysis of Bureau cal-contact interac- Kerby and Russell are as- of Justice Statistics tion. When wearing serting that tools like rape data, for example, the nail polish, users up that 46 perwhistles, pepper spray turned need only to stir a cent of male victims questionable beverand drug-detecting nail reported a female age with their finand that polish allow society to perpetrator,” gertip for assurance when the definition that their drink has blame the victim. of rape is made gennot been tampered der neutral, “the rates with. In the event of nonconsensual that a drink is spiked sexual contact basiwith one of the apcally equalized, with plicable date rape drugs listed above, 1.270 million women and 1.267 million men the nail polish will change color after claiming to be victims of sexual violence.” the stir, alerting the user to the danger.

Countless women like Kerby and RusIn opposition to the aforementioned sell are asserting that tools like rape whisideology of the Undercover Colors brand, tles, pepper spray and drug-detecting nail The Huffington Post’s Sophia Kerby says polish allow society to more easily blame products like these “actually perpetuate the victim, identified by them as female. rape culture by placing the burden of safe- While protecting women is an important ty back onto women.” Further accrediting and necessary measure to take, why not this ideology is Kate Russell from Rape work to eradicate rape in all its ugly forms?

Crisis England & Wales, whom News- In addition, there is a striking difference week quoted as having said of the polish being overlooked by these critics between “Rape Crisis does not endorse or promote one’s personal right to finding comfort such a product or anything similar. This in precautions or protection and becomis for three reasons: it implies that it’s the ing worthy of blame as a victim of rape. woman’s fault and assumes responsibility on her behalf, and detracts from the real

Photo courtesy of Flickr user Expert Infantry

U.S. forces leave an imprint on not only Americans

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LIFE

Editor: Amanda Motley | blueandgray.life@gmail.com

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From left to right: stills from the shows ‘How to Get Away With Murder,’ ‘Madame Secretary,’ ‘Houdini’ and Utopia. All of these shows can be see this fall.

Fall TV preview: The new and returning shows

NOELLE CARLSON Staff Writer Students at the University of Mary Washington, like just about everyone else in the world, enjoy binge watching their favorite television programs on streaming sites like Netflix, but there is still something to be said about weekly gatherings of friends to watch a popular television show together.

Now, one may be curious as to what the popular shows might be this fall, so I have a few predictions I am willing to share.

Networks like ABC, CBS and FOX will premiere many new shows to satisfy your hankering for drama this season.

A few shows to look out for are: “Utopia,” “How To Get Away With Murder,” “Houdini” and “Madam Secretary.”

“Utopia” is a new reality show premiering Sept. 7 on FOX. It focuses on 14 Americans who travel to a very remote area, where they put their lives on hold for a year-long endeavor in hopes of successfully creating an idealistic Utopian society.

Few resources are provided, and controversy will arise as the contestants begin to

feel the pressures of being at risk of ban- to giving hands-on learning by working on real cases. ishment.

“I’m a big fan of Rhimes’s other popu“Utopia” is unlike most survival shows because the audience has the ability to lar shows like ‘Scandal’ and ‘Grey’s Anatelect new participants and bring them on omy,’ so I can definitely see myself watching this show” sophomore education major the show.

“I’m extremely interested in this show Isabel Perrin said. “‘How to Get Away with Murder’ because its will be both has a very dramatic and strange con“I’m a big fan of Rhimes’s cept yet its thrilling but other popular shows like originality nerve-racking is enticing,” as well.”

‘Scandal’ and sophomore Now, if the ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’ so I can Rhee McMilHistory Chanlen said. is more definitely see myself watching nel your style, For all you this show.” then “Houdi“Grey’s Anatni” is the show omy”and Isabel Perrin for you. Oscar “Scandal” award winner addicts out Adrien Brody there, famous screen writer/director/producer/TV wizard plays legendary magician and escape artist Shonda Rhimes has another hit show lined Harry Houdini.

The show is set in the 1920s, at the up. “How to Get Away with Murder,” set to premiere Sept. 25 on ABC, is a primetime prime of Houdini’s career. Throughout drama about a law school professor, played the show there are flashbacks to Houdini’s

by Viola Davis, and her unique approach youth revealing why he became the man

he did. “Houdini” takes its viewers on a journey of the magician’s life as he works to become the best and most well known magician of all time.

CBS’s new show “Madam Secretary” is also one to watch. Set to premiere Sept.

21., Téa Leoni plays former CIA agent Elizabeth McCord, whose retired life living in her rural home with her husband and two kids is interrupted when she gets a call from her former boss asking her to serve as U.S. Secretary of State.

“After watching the trailer I would say I’d watch it because it reminds me of the show Homeland,” sophomore Spanish major Clara Martin said.

It seems Netflix will have a run for its money with all these original network dramas premiering this season. There is something for everyone to watch this fall, whether you are into drama, reality TV or something with a little more historical background.

Now that you’re aware of television’s most anticipated shows, what show will you be watching? Tweet with us on twitter @theBlueandGray so we can follow along with your suggestions.

THE NEXT ISSUE R e s h a l l r e c i p e s : E asy t o m a k e t o f f e e C o n s e q u e n c e s o f l i v i n g i n t h e a g e o f t e c h n o l o gy C h e a p e s t p l a c e s t o e at d o w n t o w n U p d at e o n T h e Ca n i n e c o m pa n i o n P r o g r a m 6

Thursday, September 11, 2014

LIFE

A look into the Talley Center for Counseling Services

selors and interns with specialties in a variety of areas. Palguta pointed out that the Center also has a psychiatrist, Dr. Suhir Nataraja, who is available one day a week Within the basement of Lee Hall at the and “can deal with any psychological issue University of Mary Washington lies a space that requires medication.” full of student resources. Here is where one On top of the in-house services the Talcan find the Health Center, the self-service ley Center offers, the center’s website proresource room and, most important of all, vides a variety of resources to test anxiety, the Talley Center for Counseling Services. coping with grief and loss, eating disorders Mental health issues like anxiety and many other issues frequently and depression are extremely prevafaced by college students. Conlent on college campuses around the sidering the high rates of anxiety country. A survey conducted in 2012 faced by students, Palguta also by the National Alliance on Mental noted the helpful relaxation reHealth reported that 40 percent of sources located on the Talley Censtudents with diagnosable mental ter’s website. health conditions did not seek help UMW students should nevwhile at school, and 57 percent of er be afraid to seek out help for them did not seek help from accommental health issues they may be modations provided by their school. facing, or for any other reason These overwhelmingly concerning that inclines them toward seeking numbers indicate that most students help.

As the school year continues do not utilize the counseling services on, it is beneficial to keep in mind provided to them by their colleges, that the Talley Center is free to but this readily available resource full-time students and completely should be understood as a safe and confidential. Students have nothopen space for all. ing to lose in exploring the serSome may not be aware that vices the Talley Center offers, and UMW offers free counseling and how the center can improve their psychiatric services to all full-time college experience overall. students. Services are also available Students seeking assistance to part-time students, but in more from the Talley Center may vislimited availability. Formerly known it its location in Lee Hall, Room as CAPS, the Talley Center offers 106, or they may contact the a variety of counseling services incenter at (540) 654-1053. Visit cluding individual, group, couples, Courtesy of Flickr students.umw.edu/counseling for referrals and outreach. Individual The Talley Center for Counseling Services is currrently located in Lee Hall, room 106. For information call (540) 654-1053. more information. therapy allows for a more specialRUTH BORDETT Staff Writer

ized focus, while group therapy is available for students to work through issues with the help of their peers. Students have the opportunity to try either and determine which works best with them.

According to Melissa Palguta, a therapist at the Talley Center, students can either make a walk-in counseling appointment or call the center’s phone number. The only requirement is students are required an ini-

tial triage appointment in order to identify the issues at hand before diving into regular appointments.

Furthermore, Palguta noted that crisis appointments are also offered, for which students can “come in or call, and we’ll get them in that day,” Palguta said.

The Talley Center staff is made up of Director Nicole Surething and a team of skilled and professional therapists, coun-

Materials : Hot-glue gun Pack of glue sticks for gun 2-3 Packs of coffee filters 1 pool noodle Broken-down cardboard boxes Scissors or craft knife Pen or pencil Leah Vahjen/The Blue & Gray Press

LEAH VAHJEN Staff Writer

Settling in to your home-away-fromhome for the new academic year is exciting but can also be a budget-buster when it comes to finding decorations and designs that bring both comfort and style to your new space. This D.I.Y. statement piece costs under $20 and will instantaneously liven up your residence hall or apartment.

Use this neat technique to create an oversized monogram, a wreath for your door or a simple one-word headboard like I did here. A bonus feature of this project is that you can customize your expression to truly define you and your space. I chose the timeless word “LOVE” in all-white to cre-

ate a crisp, classic feel in my space.

Begin by slicing the pool noodle in half, length-wise on one side, as if you are creating a hot dog bun. Mirror the cut on the other side to end up with two, long noodle halves. The hollow inside of the noodle should be completely accessible. You may use scissors or a craft-knife to achieve this. Next, cut along the seams of the boxes to create flat panels of cardboard, which will provide the base for your letters. Tip: Check your local liquor store for free cardboard boxes.

Decide how large you want your letters to be and cut the noodle accordingly to form the letters of your word or monogram. Then, use these to stencil the letters

onto the cardboard. The letters pictured here are 12 inches tall. Note: if you choose to make larger letters, you may need a second pool noodle.

Use your scissors or craft knife to cut the stenciled letters out of the cardboard and then use the glue-gun to attach the foam letters to the cardboard cut-outs. You may choose to put the glue directly on the noodle or directly on the cardboard, but be aware that it dries quickly. For contoured letters, feel free to use scraps to fill in awkward holes.

Now that you have the base for your masterpiece intact, it is time to break out the coffee filters. Wrap a single filter along the stubby end of a pen or pencil and slide

the filter upward about a quarter of an inch.

Twist the filter tightly and snip the end to provide a clean edge.

Now use the hot-glue gun to punch a hole in your pool noodle, and as you pull the glue gun out of the hole it punctured, squeeze glue into the hole. Use your pen to push the coffee filter into the hole securely. Repeat until your letters are adequately covered. Use scissors to trim any imperfections in the height of the filters.

When you have completed all your letters, you may secure them to the area of your choice using an appropriate adhesive.

You now have a fabulous, economical and handmade art installation.

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Seven apps to help you survive in a technological age CHRISTIAN BRUMFIELD Staff Writer In a world where technology is a part of everyday life, it is simply necessary to stay connected. One decade ago, the smartphone market did not even exist. Today, nearly two billion people worldwide carry a smartphone.

As a college student, you can use your smart phone for a variety of purposes.

Maybe you need to find the closest grocery store, or you are bored and you need a mindless game to pass the time.

Perhaps you simply need a foolproof way to remember that next week you do in fact have a history test. Whatever the need, with over 1 million apps to choose from on the app store, it is hard to know which ones are best, let alone which one truly useful.

Having had an iPhone since they were first released in 2008, I have been able to scavenge through the app store year after year, looking for anything and everything that might be of use. While the following list obviously will not cover all aspects of life, it will probably help average college students maintain their relationship with their phones. Without further ado, here is - ranked in no particular order - a list of the Top Seven iPhone Apps for College Students: 1: For the directionally challenged: “Around Me” - Free Very simply put, this app will solve the problem. Whether you need to find a cheap gas station, a movie theater nearby or that amazing Mexican restaurant you keep rediscovering, “Around Me” will not only

show you everything nearby, but it will suggest top-rated places to go based on reviews from Yelp. Furthermore, “Around Me” provides business hours, phone numbers, menus and directions through Google Maps. Additionally, a clean user interface makes this app incredibly easy and simple to use.

2: All of your social needs in one place: “Flipboard” - Free As a college student, maximizing time management is important. So instead of going to your Facebook app, then to Twitter, then to Google to find out who won that basketball game yesterday, you can keep up with everything in your life in one place with “Flipboard.” As the company’s slogan goes, “Flipboard” is your personal magazine. Stay up to date with sports, follow publications with your interests and add your favorite social networks.

3: Discover New Music: “Pandora” - Free I am sure by now most of you have heard of “Pandora.” However, with other big music streaming apps on the market such as “Spotify,” “Pandora” has left the spotlight. While apps like “Spotify” definitely have their strengths, Pandora’s unlimited free streaming not only allows you to keep up with popular music, but also introduces new music.

After creating stations based off music you like, “Pandora” will suggest and play music similar to that style. After a while, “Pandora” will become so familiar with your taste that it will predict songs it thinks you would like with incredible accuracy.

Additionally, “Pandora” allows you to con-

nect with friends to see what kind of music they are listening to, making this app a highly personal and social environment worth exploring.

4: When the most interesting thing you can think of is watching grass grow: “Fruit Ninja” - $0.99 “Fruit Ninja” has been on the app store for a few years now, yet it still remains one of the best iOS games of all time. For those of you who are not familiar, you basically get to use your inner ninja skills to slice up as many pieces of fruit as you can before accidentally hitting one of those bombs.

Featuring several game modes, as well as the ability to make your ninja blade look like anything from a cluster of butterflies to the American flag, “Fruit Ninja” will keep you occupied for days. Despite its simple concept, it is guaranteed to give your fingers a work out. Batteries not included.

5: That thing you always forget to do: “Tabule” Homework Planner - $3.99 Remembering exactly what you need to do and exactly when it is due can be challenging, everyone forgets something important every once in a while. Unlike other apps for homework and class management, “Tabule” actually connects directly with your school to give you all of the information you need. What does this mean exactly? Once Tabule finds your school, it prompts you to type in which classes you are taking. Anyone in your class using “Tabule” will be able to see and comment on upcoming assignments or tests. The group discussion capabilities alone make this app one of the best ways to organize and plan for your classes.

Finally, “Tabule” will remind you to work on assignments before they are due, further enhancing your ability to turn in assignments on time. While this app may seem a little pricey, it is nothing compared to the money you would waste failing a class because you forgot the final exam was this Wednesday, and not next Wednesday.

6: Learn everything faster: “Flashcards+” - Free “Flashcards+” is ideal for the any college student looking to memorize information quickly and efficiently. Featuring an incredibly simple interface, this app allows you to create flashcard sets to study on the go. Moreover, you can search for and download decks from a database containing millions of decks created by other students. If that is not enough, “Flashcards+” will pronounce words to you in over 20 languages.

7: Note-taking made simple: “Evernote” - Free While this list is in no particular order, “Evernote” is arguably one of the best apps in existence. In short, a few of the countless features of this app include the ability to take notes and share them with others in real time, the ability to plan projects and conduct meetings, the option to incorporate and save in your notes videos, pictures and articles from the internet, the ability to create to-do lists, as well as the ability to sync all data between all of your devices. “Evernote” is the ultimate information storing and sharing device. The best way know how awesome this app is would be to try it for yourself. Perhaps the best news of all is that it is completely free.

Joan Rivers: A celebrated comedienne honored after recent death

Joan Rivers died on Sept. 4, 2014. She starred in various shows and movies.

CHRISTIAN BRUMFIELD Staff Writer This summer the world lost many famed and renowned celebrities, and the passing of the iconic comedian Joan Rivers last week is the most recent in a summer of

Courtesy of Flickr

stars lost too soon.

A celebrated comedian with an unmistakable face and knack for absolute honesty, Joan Rivers died on Sept. 4 of complications from a routine throat surgery, according to the New York Daily News.

At 81, Rivers was a woman notorious for her quick and unrelenting jokes

and jibes, and successful as an “Emmy-award-winning television talk-show host, Tony-award-nominated actress, bestselling author, playwright, screenwriter, film director, columnist, lecturer, syndicated radio host, jewelry designer, cosmetic-company entrepreneur and red-carpet fashion laureate,” according to her website.

Rivers was named Johnny Carson’s “permanent guest host” in 1983 because of her prominence on “The Tonight Show” since 1965. She went on to become the first woman talk show, “The Late Show Starring Joan Rivers” in 1986. The move to FOX and popularity caused a break between Carson and Rivers, who never spoke again, and only a year later Rivers’ husband and manager, Edgar Rosenbaum, died of a drug overdose, according to TIME. Rivers shifted gears and entered the world of Broadway, starring in “Fun City” (1972) and “Sally Marr…and Her Escorts” the latter of which won her a Best Actress Tony Award nomination.

She created and hosted “Live from the Red Carpet” for the E! Network in 1996 and then became the most voracious comedic voice in the fashion world on “Fashion Police.”

More important than her career, howev-

er, Rivers was a mother and grandmother, which she highlighted in the show “Joan and Melissa: Joan Knows Best?”, in which she starred alongside her daughter Melissa Rivers. The revealing 2010 documentary, “Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work,” showed how “the woman who turned hate and self-hatred into comedy needed the loving validation of an audience — any audience,” according to TIME. “For more than a half-century, first as a pioneering stand-up comedienne, then as a defiant survivor, she spoke skewed truth to power, and in doing so became her own potentate and garishly fossilized icon,” wrote Richard Corliss of TIME. “She could be a ranting bag lady, if the lady were as funny as she was rude, and the bag from Gucci.”

Never afraid to say what everyone else was thinking, Rivers was indeed a character a powerhouse. Her funeral was held amid a myriad of stars and friends last Sunday, Sept. 6, where touching remembrances and performances were held in courtesy of a life filled with wit, strength and honesty The loss of such an iconic face will be felt by many. She was a woman who sizzled and never fizzled in life.

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NEWS

Internet slows down in defense of net neutrality

HOPE RACINE News Editor

liquor law violations

The internet came to a symbolic crawl on Wednesday, Sept. 10 as part of a global protest to defend net neutrality.

Net neutrality, often referred to as the golden rule of the internet, assures that cable and telecom companies provide internet service cannot block or discriminate against any company, application or content hosted on said internet.

However, a recent plan by Federal Communications Commission chairman Tom Wheeler may potentially threaten the online super highway. Wheeler’s plan will allow broadband providers such as Comcast, Verizon, Time Warner Cable and AT&T the ability to charge companies such as Netflix, Google, Facebook and more for preferential treatment.

In effect, companies whose sole business and revenue depend on internet access will have to pay more in order to provide reliably fast service to customers. It will be the equivalent of buying an EasyPass to gain access to the highway fast lane- not required, but highly encouraged if you want to get to work on time.

Many sites protesting these proposed changes joined together in an “Internet Slowdown” to raise awareness for net neutrality. While these sites did not actually slow their services, each feature the much dreaded “spinning wheel” symbol.

“If there were Internet slow lanes, you'd still be waiting,” said a message that appeared on the Netflix homepage. “Protect internet freedom. Defend net neutrality.”

These sites then prompted users to “take action” and navigated them to BattleFortheNet.com, a site that offers information on net neutrality and provides a venue for individuals to send comments to the FCC. In response to public opposition, the FCC has proposed a compromise: categorizing internet access as a "common carrier" under Title II of the Communications Act. Title II is the means with which the FCC currently regulates phone companies, and subsection two of the act states that carriers cannot “make any unjust or unreasonable discrimination in charges, practices, clas-

A student, 18, received an administrative referral outside of Bushnell Hall for public intoxication on Aug. 30 at approximately 9:45 p.m.

On Sept. 5, at approximately 1:09 a.m. a 17-year-old student received an administrative referral for underage intoxication on the fourth floor of Bushnell Hall.

larceny

Hope Racine/ The Blue & Gray Press On Wednesday, Sept. 9, websites around the globe symbolically slowed down in defense of net neutrality

sifications, regulations, facilities, or services.”

However, some who are in favor of net neutrality do not view Title II as the appropriate venue.

“Title II includes a host of arcane provisions,” FCC Commissioner Michael O’Reilly said during a recent meeting.

“The idea that the commission can magically impose or sprinkle just the right amount of Title II on broadband providers is giving the commission more credit than it ever deserves.”

O’Reilly went on to call Title II “an inappropriate framework for today’s dynamic technologies.”

For those companies facing the majority of the backlash, Title II does not appear to be a decent compromise either. Those who are proponents of the FCC’s changes claim that classifying the internet as a common carrier under Title II will reduce future investment in the online infrastructure, and that the FCC can ensure net neutrality without the Title II classification.

Defenders of net neutrality contest that these allegations are false, and have accused them of employing lobbyists for their cause and providing millions of dollars to political campaigns, according to Battle For The Net. “The guy who used to run the cable industry’s lobbying arm is now running the

agency tasked with regulating it. That is the equivalent of needing a babysitter and hiring a dingo.” comedian John Oliver said on his television show “Last Week Tonight.”

“With the fact that they are practically overseeing their own oversight, it is hardly surprising that cable companies are basically monopolies now,” Oliver continued.

“A federal study found that 96 percent of the population had access to two or fewer cable broadband providers. It’s almost as if they’ve agreed to stay out of each other’s way, like drug cartels.”

Many politicians, such as House Minority leader Nancy Pilosi, have shown support for net neutrality.

"I oppose special Internet fast lanes," Pelosi wrote in an open letter to the FCC. "I believe the FCC should follow the court's guidance and reclassify broadband as a telecommunications service under Title II." Politicians, activists, companies and individuals are able to file formal comments and suggestions through the FCC website until Sept. 15.

"What's being proposed is so egregious that activists and corporations have been forced onto the same side,” Oliver said.

“And you might wonder, if everyone is against this, how is it even possibly happening?”

State budget cuts hit higher education MARIAH YOUNG Managing Editor

Public universities and colleges in Virginia, including the University of Mary Washington, are expected to cut five percent of their general fund appropriation, or $1.2 million in the case of UMW, for the 2015 fiscal year and seven percent for the 2016 fiscal year.

They are expected to present their savings plans to the Virginia Department of Planning and Budget by Sept. 19.

The recent hiring freeze at the University of Mary Washington was a preemptive move for the statewide budget cuts. It will have little effect on the student body, says Provost Jonathan Levin.

In late August, Virginia governor Terry McAuliffe outlined the state’s $880 million budget shortfall and announced across the board cuts.

Paul Reagan, McAuliffe’s chief of staff, sent an email to all the rectors and presidents of public higher education institutions across the Commonwealth. In the email, he requested that colleges and universities that receive money from the state

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POLICE BEAT

should prepare their own savings strategies.

UMW does not currently have a final number on how many positions will be affected by the hiring freeze, but will unfreeze positions as necessary. This includes positions such as the director of disability resources.

“Our goal is to make sure the student experience is impacted as little as possible,” said Doug Searcy, vice president of student affairs.

The Governor specifically urged public colleges to avoid increasing tuition to compensate for the changes in the budget. The UMW Board of Visitors approved a approximately $112 million budget in May, including a six percent increase in tuition.

Overall, the University was budgeted to receive approximately $27 million from the commonwealth. This included funds for all aspects of the university system, including the James Monroe Museum, the Dahlgren, Stafford and Fredericksburg campuses and more, according to Rick Pearce, Vice President for Administration and Finance.

According to Levin, the number of

courses offered by the university will not change, but there will be personnel aspects cut.

“We are all in this together,” said Searcy. “All areas of the university will contribute to making sure we have a balanced budget” According to Levin, budgets will have to be moved around, but that will be up to each of the University departments’ budget managers.

“Every budget manager will need to make decisions on how much of that is going to be done through freezing positions and other means such as operating budgets,” said Levin.

“Over the past 10 to 15 years, you see a steady decrease in state funding for higher education,” said Levin. “It’s a national phenomenon.”

Earlier this summer, the university removed an addition $1.2 million from the budget after the incoming class was smaller than expected. Cuts came from small areas of the budget, including licensing agreements for computer programs and Internet plans.

A black Samsung Galaxy S5 was stolen from the battleground on Aug. 30 at approximately 7:50 a.m.

The case is pending.

On Sept. 2 at approximately 1:49 p.m. a student stole a fire extinguisher from the first floor in Russell Hall.

The case is pending.

A Samsung Note cellphone was stolen from an office in Goolrick Hall on Sept. 4 at approximately 4:50 p.m.

On Sept. 5, at approximately 1:54 p.m., a wallet was stolen from a staff member’s desk out of a bag in Lee Hall. The wallet was found in the men’s bathroom. The case is pending.

drug law violations On Aug. 31, at approximately 8:27 p.m., an 18-year-old student was charged with possession of marijuana. It was discovered during a fire drill in Jefferson Hall on the fourth floor.

A student, 21, was charged with possession of marijuana. It was discovered during a fire drill in Framar Hall on the first floor on Sept. 1 at approximately 3:00 p.m.

A 19-year-old student received an administrative referral for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia on the fifth floor of Eagle Landing on Sept. 8 at approximately 1:12 a.m.

assault A 19-year-old student received an administrative referral for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia on the fifth floor of Eagle Landing on Sept. 8 at approximately 1:12 a.m.

The information was compiled with assistance from UMW Police Manager James DeLoatch and Fredericksburg Police Department Public Information Officer Natatia Bledsoe.

The Blue & Gray Press will publish the names of students who are formally charged by the University of Mary Washington Campus Police or the Fredericksburg Police Department to have committed acts of extreme violence against members of the UMW community or pose a large threat to that community, when names are released to the public. The Blue & Gray Press will publish names and write articles about criminal acts on a case-by-case basis according to the aforementioned parameters.

Thursday, September 11, 2014

NEWS

Honor essay no longer required for admission for class of 2018

MICHELLE MOODY Staff Writer

Each student admitted to the University of Mary Washington since the mid-90’s has had to ponder the importance of the honor code- until the class of 2018.

The prompt required students to explain their own understanding and experiences with honor.

However, this year, freshman did not write about honor because it was not required in the 2013-2014 applications.

The responses received by admissions in the past few years with not quite up to par with what the administration wanted to see from students.

“Students just did not seem to get it,” Melissa Yakabouski, director of admissions said. “The responses we would get would be quite mundane. Students would talk about when they were little kids and steal candy from the store and their parents would tell them to put it back, and how they understand how that was wrong, and that was not what we were looking for.”

Incoming students were encouraged to write briefly about honor and what it meant to them. It was one of the two required writing supplements that student had to

write.

“I wrote about how I visited a friend at UMW and he lost his cell phone and somebody returned it back to him,” junior chemistry major July Laszakovits said.

“And then when someone else lost their phone he returned it back to them and he told me that was what Mary Washington was all about.”

“Every once in a while we would have a student give a great answer and we would be excited that they understood the question, but nine out of 10 times that student had been on campus,” Yakabouski said.

Students that toured on campus and the community obtained a better sense of the code while being here and could write about it easier than other students who had never experienced UMW’s environment, Yakabouski said.

Some students agreed that the honor essay did not hold much purpose in the admissions process “Students know the difference between right and wrong and we already know that through our parents. The school doesn’t need to tell us how to be respectful,” sophomore business administration majo Paul McClure, said.

Other students however thought that the

BOV ‘unlikely to be interested’ in future divestment talks •DIVEST | 1

that the BOV will be interested in further consideration of this issue.”

Kronemer said students that are part of DivestUMW had about four meetings with Hurley.

“We now have to progress into action based methods of advocacy for divestment,” Kronemer said. “No school has divested purely through the means of negotiation.”

The BOV believes it is in the best interest of the university to continue with the current practice of maintaining school funds as part of a portfolio instead of individual stocks, according to Holly Cuellar, rector of the UMW BOV in an article with The Free Lance-Star.

“While we understand and appreciate the sentiment of the DivestUMW group, the UMW Board of Visitors and the Foundation Board remain focused on prudently maximizing investments to support our donors’ intent to bolster scholarships and programs that enhance the student learning experience,” Cuellar told The Free LanceStar According to Kronemer, around 300 other universities have campaigns promoting divestment, and some major schools, such as Stanford University, have made progress.

College and university endowments, overall, represent $1 trillion of $150 trillion total invest assets in the world, according to Cary Kroskinky, executive director of the Network for Sustainable Financial Markets.

At the UMW, the endowment, which is controlled in part by the UMW Foundation, is approximately $42 million. The UMW Foundation is a non-stock, nonprofit corporation chartered by the Commonwealth of Virginia. The goal of the foundation is to “accept, manage, and administer private resources supporting the mission and priorities of the university, and to provide opportunities for students and a margin of institutional excellence unavailable with

state funds,” according to the Foundation’s website.

Approximately eight percent of companies that are held in various multi-company investment vehicles within the endowment have fossil fuel operations as a part of their overall business.

One major reason for the lack of divestment is that the UMW Foundation does not invest in individual company stock, but instead invest in funds that include in them companies that support the fossil fuel industry in some way, according to Hurley.

This approach to investing gives the foundation access to investment vehicles with a higher return rate.

“The BOV believes their responsibility is to support the best possible return on our investments because most of the endowment’s return goes toward scholarship awards for our students - about $1.4 million annually,” Hurley wrote. “The Board is committed to keeping the cost of a Mary Washington education as affordable as possible, and private support generated through endowed scholarships is essential.”

Other universities in Virginia, such as the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, James Madison University, the College of William and Mary, George Mason University and Old Dominion University all have online petitions to end the fossil fuel investment process.

“To divest, we would have to replace 11 funds of funds that manage 88 percent of the total portfolio and our research has shown that funds established to address this issue do not have the rates of return we enjoy,” said Hurley. “Finally, we have a policy on socially responsible investment so one should not get the impression that all the Board is concerned about is the return on the investment.”

On Sept. 21, members of DivestUMW will be attending the People’s Climate March in New York City. The march is predicted to be one of the largest climate marches in history.

Courtesy of University Relations Incoming freshmen are no longer required to write the honor essay that has been in place since the mid-90’s.

honor essay was meaningful. Laszakovits found it “surprising” that it was removed.

“It kind of a big distinction for UMW from other schools,” Laszakovits said.

Instead of the prompt, the application

this year will give a brief history of the honor code and how it is part of the UMW community for incoming students to better understand the school’s character.

MCDONNELL FOUND GUILTY •MCDONNELL | 2

cial access to Williams,” said Kelly Kramer, an attorney at the Washington D.C. office of Mayer Brown.

The defense argued that the McDonnells’ 38-year marriage was so riddled with marital troubles that they could not have conspired together with Williams.

Last December, prosecutors offered McDonnell a plea bargain in which the former governor could plead guilty to just one felony fraud charge of lying to a bank.

In this deal, Maureen McDonnell would have avoided charges entirely.

He declined the plea bargain, refusing to plead guilty to a crime he claimed he did not commit, according to the Washington Post.

If he had pled guilty in December, McDonnell would have faced a sentence of anything from probation to three years in prison. This range of a sentence puts into perspective the extraordinary outcome of the case, in which the couple now faces up to 30 years in prison, according to the Associated Press.

Law officials declared that justice had been served, according to the Washington Post.

“This was just a difficult and disappointing day for the Commonwealth and its citizens,” U.S. Attorney Dana Boente said. “Public service frequently requires sacrifice and almost always requires financial sacrifice. When public officials turn to financial gain in exchange for official acts, we have little choice but to prosecute the case.”

Sentencing is scheduled for Jan.6. Until then, defense attorney Henry “Hank” Asbill told reporters that the former governor would appeal. The former first lady, would also appeal, according to William Burck, an attorney for Maureen McDonnell.

Looking ahead, Farnsworth stated a need for changes in ethics laws in Virginia is in order.

“Perhaps the main consequence of the McDonnell guilty verdict is the renewed pressure of tightening of some of these state laws,” Farnsworth said.

“Federal law is clearer about what the

violations are. Virginia notoriously has relatively loose laws with respect to disclosure, not only for the family members, but for the elected officials themselves.”

“It’s in the politicians’ best interest to have tighter laws, because the lack of clear prohibitions creates gray areas where lawmakers can get into trouble,” he continued.

Ben Hermerding, senior political science major and president of Young Democrats said, “I think we should definitely pass laws that crack down on any type of monetary gain from politics. There should be stiff consequences for people who break those rules.”

However, while some view this as an opportunity to crack down on corruption, others worry that the lesson may not stick.

Nicole Tardif, senior political science and business administration double major and chairman of College Republicans said, “The verdict will undoubtedly be overturned, but until then, it is the General Assembly’s job to redefine ethics laws in Virginia.”

House Speaker Bill Howell and Senate Majority Leader Tommy Norment, both Republicans, wrote in a Richmond Times-Dispatch op-ed that a higher standard for public officials must be set to rebuild trust in state government.

“With last Thursday’s verdict, the need to restore the public’s confidence has increased exponentially,” Howell and Norment wrote. “Although the reforms enacted earlier this year were meaningful and substantive, and were approved without a single dissenting vote in both chambers and in both parties, they are no longer sufficient in meeting the expectations of the people of Virginia. A higher standard having been set, we must meet it.”

The McDonnell verdict has allowed for politicians to begin working on solutions to better regulate Virginia’s laws and rebuild civilian trust.

“With that in mind, and as leaders of the majority party in the House and Senate, we pledge today to the people of Virginia to take the additional steps necessary to rebuild the trust and confidence we ask of you,” Howell and Norment said.

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SPORTS

Editor: Chris Markham | blueandgray.sports@gmail.com

Eagle Nation Day strengthens connection with local community

MIKEY BARNES AND EMILY HOLLINGSWORTH

Staff Writers

“It’s a great day to be an Eagle” were the most commonly uttered words on this campus on Saturday, Sept. 6, when University of Mary Washington athletes, their coaching staffs and the employees of the athletic department gathered together at the Battlegrounds to welcome neighboring families and businesses to the second annual Eagle Nation Day. Beginning at 10 a.m., families piled into the parking lots and were welcomed at the gates by UMW athletes, as well as Sammy D. Eagle. The many student athletes of UMW gathered around as they offered to sign paraphernalia for local children.

Alongside the athletes were a number of different activities for the children and their families to enjoy.

“It is a great event. It allows the University to co-exist with the community, while the children and athletes interact with one another,” said UMW Athletic Director Ken Tyler. The interacting with the athletes and children extended to numerous events, such as a water balloon toss between the athletes and the kids.

The community, alongside the families, made its presence felt as numerous local businesses set up tents, where they gave away items. Businesses at the event included Fredericksburg Field House, Children’s Museum of Richmond, The Popcorn Bag, Sweet Frog and Splitsville Luxury Lane.

The event was sponsored and presented by B101.5, who had their own mascot, Buzzy the Bee, making an appearance. With such a positive event aimed at strengthening the community, every person in attendance had a very positive outlook, despite the intense heat.

“It’s great to see everyone together,” said sophomore Kelly Mason, a manager for the women’s basketball team. “The kids were really getting into it.”

When asked how he felt about the event, NFL hall-of-famer and UMW’s special assistant for student athlete development and

Courtesy of Ginny Clark/Blue and Gray Press

Student athletes connect with local families, play games with kids

public relations Darrell Green said, “It is almost unfair because people like me enjoy this event too much. It’s all about the community, and I wish everyone from Fredericksburg could be here on this field celebrating.”

It was not just Green and Tyler that enjoyed the event though, a number of the athletes chimed in and expressed their excitement for the event. Sophomore track member Bailey Ratliff said that she “loves the community involvement and how happy all the kids are.” Sophomore basketball player Ryan Greer and sophomore lacrosse player Jack Carver agreed with Ratliff and mentioned that they “love the fact the athletes of the different teams are able to work together to support the community.”

Fredericksburg resident Graham Griffin, who attended Eagle Nation Day with his wife and children, was surprised by the size of the event and the many UMW sports leagues who were involved.

Women’s soccer jumps to no. 23 in poll

“I didn’t know you guys had as much as you did. I’ve been here since 2003. I didn’t know Battleground Athletic Complex was here until we pulled up,” Griffin said.

This event is young, but is expected to grow in the coming years. The first annual Eagle Nation Day, held in 2013, kicked off the formation of the Eagle Club, an organization designed to support student athletes and to create awareness toward the various sports programs available at UMW. Each year, the event has a specific theme geared toward celebrating a certain aspect of the UMW athletic department. This year’s theme celebrated women and girls in sports and highlighted the women’s soccer and field hockey games held that day.

According to Philip Pierce, director of athletic development, reaching the community is an integral part of Eagle Nation Day. The event was inspired by a similar program held at James Madison University

called “Day with the Dukes,” which started in 2007. JMU students from the football, soccer, basketball and tennis teams would interact with Special Olympic athletes from across Virginia on this day.

The student athletes and special Olympians spend the day practicing drills, lunching together and attending a game played by JMU’s football team.

Pierce, a graduate of JMU, said he believed creating a similar event for UMW student athletes would allow the athletes to better interact with the community, as well as bring awareness of UMW’s sports program to the greater Fredericksburg area.

“I hope that this year’s theme and event reaches hundreds of young female athletes in our community,” Pierce said. “It encourages them to never give up, to never let anyone tell them they can’t do something because of their gender and to look up to our student athletes at UMW as role models.”

Field hockey rebounds well after loss The games did not end with the soccer game though, as the women’s field hockey team took on Franklin & Marshall later that afternoon.

Unfortunately, the Lady Eagles came up short, as they lost 4-3 and fell to 2-1 on the season. Goals were scored for the Lady Eagles by juniors Carlee Budd and Jenna Steele, along with senior Christine Downie. Franklin & Marshall’s four second-half goals proved to be too much for the Eagles.

Redemption was earned the following day

when the Lady Eagles defeated Roanoke college 12-0, improving to 3-1 on the season.

Junior Carlee Budd, a member of the women’s field hockey team, enjoyed the passion from the UMW student athletes off the field as well as on it.

“It’s nice seeing athletes interacting with younger kids and seeing athletes talking together from different teams,” Budd said.

Courtesy of umweagles.com Sophomore MaryFay Jackson and the Eagles have joined the national conversation, 4-1 this season.

The festivities on the battleground ended around 12:30 p.m. when the stands began to fill as they prepared to watch the undefeated UMW women’s soccer team take on the women of Coast Guard Academy.

The UMW ladies held little struggle as they scored a goal in each half, the only real battle being with that of the scorching heat. Sophomore Maryfay Jackson scored the team’s first goal in the eighth minute of the game. Coast Guard’s numerous attempts to tie the game up were denied continuously by the strong UMW defense. The Lady Eagles put it away in the 89th minute with a goal by freshman Anna Manser, with the assist coming from sophomore

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Meghan Turney.

The Lady Eagles finished the game with a 2-0 win, improving to 3-0 on the season.

The ladies improved to 4-0 the following day after with a 2-1 win over Rowan University, moving them up to 23rd in the national rankings.

The Lady Eagles lost their first game of the year on Wednesday, Sept. 10 when they lost to the third best team in the nation, Messiah College on the road 5-0. The loss puts the first talley in the “loss” column for the Eagles this season, but should not affect their national ranking, considering the strength of their opponent.

Courtesy of umweagles.com The UMW field hockey team, ranked 16th in the nation, recorded back-to-back shutouts.

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