THE
BLUE &GRAY
THE UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON STUDENT NEWSPAPER
PRESS
December 8, 2016
VOLUME 90 | ISSUE 12 SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE
1922
Students respond with concerns to the proposed Atlantic Coast Pipeline MADISON REID Staff Writer
This December, the Department of Mines Minerals and Energy is releasing new regulations regarding the Atlantic Coast Pipeline. In suspense of the release, select students at the University of Mary Washington became concerned with the potential negative effects of this pipeline. The proposed pipeline, is said to cut through Virginia, West Virginia and North Carolina, and will be funded by Dominion Power. Currently this pipeline is on hold waiting for the updated list of regulations.
“Its construction would mark an open disregard for the health and safety. The pipeline is yet another step backwards in the fight to end our dependence on fossil fuels.” -Sarah Kinzer
Sarah Kinzer, junior English major, found out about the proposed pipeline through fellow students working to support the ‘anti-pipeline’ effort. After becoming aware of the possible impacts, Kinzer developed some concerns. “Its construction would mark an open disregard for the health and safety. The pipeline is yet another step backwards in the fight to end our dependence on fossil fuels,” Kinzer said. She believes that students are fighting against this, acting both on and off campus. For example, she knows students from the Virginia Commonwealth
IN THIS
ISSUE
•ACPL | 2
Office of Academic Services
Phi Eta Sigma chapter recently chartered at UMW
HABIBA NOOR Staff Writer
The University of Mary Washington inaugurated the Phi Eta Sigma chapter on Tuesday Nov. 15, to applaud firstyear students who excel in academia. President Paino accepted the charter from the executive director of the honor society, Elaine Powell. It is the oldest society to honor freshmen academic excellence in the United States. According to Charles Tate, the society has no affiliation to a social fraternity, instead it is entirely based on academic performance and indeed this will not be a step towards social fraternities on campus. Wes Hillyard, Director of Academic Services, proposed the initiation of this society while Charles Tate, an Academic Advisor, petitioned it. He wanted to take the responsibility of being the chapter advisor, as former President Hurley signed it. After six months, President Paino accepted the charter. There were 193 UMW students of the freshman class, the top 20 percent, with a GPA of 3.5 or above who were invited to join. Parents and families were present to
FANTASTIC BEASTS
Students review of the new Harry Potter film
congratulate and support over 50 members who were inducted into the ceremony. The One Note Stand was spotted singing the UMW Alma Mater. Tate, as the UMW Chapter adviser, was happy with the first-class numbers. To recruit as many freshmen, a second induction will be held in the spring 2017. An invitation will be sent out to the freshmen that meet the requirement at the end of the fall 2016 semester. This was also a time to recognize those who continuously express dedication towards student success as the honorary members of this society, including Assistant Dean of Student Involvement, Melissa Jones, professor of Spanish Dr. Jeremy Larochelle, professor of Mathematics Dr. Keith Mellinger, professor of Chemistry Dr. Kelly Slunt and Tate. As many students first thought to join the society because “it looks good on a resume,” Theodosius Zotos, sophomore political science major, who is the first Interim Chapter President, felt the same way. “Not only that, but it’s also a great opportunity to surround yourself with people that have academic goals and are succeeding at higher levels,” Zotos said.
ResLife RELUCTANCE RAs put in compromising position by student press
Along with Powell, Tate has been with the society for 20 years. He was first inducted during his freshmen year at the University of Lynchburg. Thus, the society proves to be a great opportunity to for the campus to take advantage of because it gives students a lifetime membership that offers scholarships to its members. Phi Eta Sigma was first men’s honor fraternity until the 1970s when it became a co-educational national honor society, that is now nondiscriminatory of all disciplines. It has inducted about 1.2 million members since 1923 when it was first founded by Dr. Thomas Arkle Clark at the University of Illinois. It has chartered over 378 campuses, UMW being the 382-chartered university into the nationally renowned freshmen honor society. The society publishes its own forum of Phi Eta Sigma every year reporting social activities and recognizing scholarship holders, each year, awarding $300,000 in scholarships. “The induction ceremony at UMW was a great beginning to a new chapter,” Powell said. Future plans include expanding the minimum membership
•HONOR SOCIETY | 10
COMEBACK CAITLIN Women’s basketball player makes unbelievable recovery
NEWS
Editors: Ester Salguero & Izzy Briones | blueandgray.news@gmail.com
THE
BLUE & GRAY PRESS
MISSION The Blue & Gray Press is published every Thursday in the University Apartments Clubhouse for our university community. The goal of The Blue & Gray Press is to produce high quality and accurate news in a manner compliant with the Society of Professional Journalists ethics code. In its coverage, The Blue & Gray Press strives to highlight the community of the University of Mary Washington, as well as deliver fair and accurate coverage on the issues important to our students.
EDITORS-AT-LARGE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Chris Markham
MANAGING EDITOR Tess Osmer
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Alex Spence
SECTION EDITORS NEWS Ester Salguero Izzy Briones
VIEWPOINTS Tessa Cate
LIFE Kelly Emmrich
SPORTS Mikey Barnes
ONLINE Ethan Tobin
PHOTO Alex Sakes
Business Team Linda Fitzpatrick Janelle Behm
FACULTY ADVISOR Sushma Subramanian
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Virginia Student Environmental Coalition Members of VSEC take a group photo. The group is “devoted to organizing Virginia campuses and at the state level to promote climate activism and rethink the use of fossil fuels in Virginia,” according to their Facebook Page.
Pipeline provides a chance for students to practice activism on the local level
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University who have created a documentary to specifically highlight the impact this would have on Bath County. Recently, at the University of Mary Washington, a panel was held in the Chandler Ballroom, hosted by the Sierra Club, who wanted to start a discussion on campus regarding the pipeline. Students and residents of the area were welcomed to attend. “The number of students who are aware about the pipeline and the threat it carries is small, but growing,” Kinzer said. The recent publicity surrounding the fight of the North Dakota Access Pipeline has caught many people’s attention, causing them to become more aware of the negative ramifications of this proposed pipeline. Bradley Veerhoff, a sophomore double majoring in math and English, found out about the Atlantic Coast Pipeline through his work with the Virginia Student Environmental Coalition. His concerns are similar to Kinzer’s, however, Veerhoff is also worried about the damage caused by infrastructure on communities and what it means for the economy. As a student, he has yet to get involved on the campus, although he’s been doing “a recruitment campaign for VSEC, which runs a no infrastructure campaign as well.” Veerhoff believes that students are not as involved as they could be. He suggested that “college kids are really busy between school, work and making money to pay for said things.” He said that if they were given better resources to become a part of the “no pipeline” campaign, they could possibly do more. Senior geography major, Courtney Fauno, is an intern for the Sierra Club. She chose to apply for this internship to gain experience for a potential career in the environmental field. “The best way to get good hands on experience was to start at the local level and tackling problems happening in [her] community,” Fauno said. Other than the Sierra Club itself, Fauno isn’t doing much to get involved with the issue. However, she will be attending a Stand with Standing Rock
march in Washington D.C., on Dec. 10, at 2 p.m. Fauno thinks that her fellow students should follow suit and come to the march as well. If students have yet to become involved with the pipeline issue, this would be one place to start, according to Fauno. Student experiences surrounding this pipeline are mostly independent from
the UMW campus. However, there are occasional opportunities for involvement around campus, such as the panel that the Sierra Club hosted. While students agreed that there is a lack of involvement on campus, there is still the potential for the university to become a part of the Atlantic Coast Pipeline movement.
Student Government Association Beat Wednesday, Dec. 7
A motion passed to add, “as well as fresh fruit like bananas and apples,” as another alternative as a gluten free snack and breakfast option. A motion passed that Blackstone work with Sodexo to provide gluten free options such as bread cookies and perhaps chips like gluten free Chex mix for students that have gluten allergies as well as fresh fruit like bananas and apples as another alternative as a gluten free snack and breakfast option. A motion passed to strike the words, “at the bike repair station next to the University Center,” and add the words, “that would be available for pick up at the SAE office.” A motion passed that the Buildings and Grounds Committee work with the Buildings and Grounds Department to install two more washers and dryers each in Jefferson Hall. A motion passed that the Buildings and Grounds Department to switch the commuter lounge and the Tallon Lounge officially. A motion passed that Buildings and Grounds Committee work with the Buildings and Grounds Department to install a Blue Light nearby the stairs from Alvey to the Anderson Center.
For more information, contact the president of Student Senate, Ethan Carter at : ecarter@mail.umw.edu All motions were originated and passed in the student senate. They have not gone through approval by the executive cabinet.
DETAILS PROVIDED BY JAMIE MCGUIRE
Thursday, December 8, 2016
SPORTS
Crew team dedicates boat to late captain, Bob Ericson
PAIGE WALTON Staff Writer
On Nov. 12, University of Mary Washington’s crew team and community gathered at Hope Springs marina to officially induct a new boat. Purchased by the men’s team, the Wintech 8+ was dedicated to and in memory of Robert “Bob” Ericson, a former UMW student and captain of the men’s rowing team who passed away suddenly in April of 2014. The boat dedication included the ceremonial ritual of decommissioning the previous name of the boat by throwing a medallion with the old name on it into the river. Following that was what many described as a moving testimony given
by Ericson’s parents about what it means to “Live Like Bob.” The crew team gave Ericson’s parents the opportunity to unveil the boat’s new name, a name that will inspire the team to be better, according to sophomore English major Mackenzie Hard. After the unveiling of the new name, Stephanie Preston, who dated Ericson at the time of his passing, said a few words and poured a bottle of champagne onto the newly commissioned boat, another tradition of boat dedications. “Seeing a boat christening is a truly poetic experience to be a part of,” said sophomore sociology major Corinne Kuge. “The emotional weight of everyone’s words and the love surrounding the event almost pushed me to tears.”
Though many members of the team now did not have the chance to know Ericson personally, Hard spoke of getting to know him through stories told by other members of the team and by meeting his family. Through all of the early morning practices and long regatta days, the crew team itself becomes a family. “To me, the best thing [about crew] is having an extra family while I’m at school. I can count on them for anything and count on them to constantly be there for me and constantly push me in and out of the boat,” Hard said. The addition of the efficient Wintech 8+ creates extra opportunities for the team to excel. “A new boat won’t make a crew stronger or faster, but with a new boat, it
can be assured that crews are racing with the best technology and materials available. It also gives our team the opportunity to honor [Ericson] everywhere we race. Other crews will see his name. He will always be with us,” said junior economics major Alli Jakubek, who was also a part of The One Note Stand with Ericson. In a sport that demands every member to be perfectly in sync, teamwork is vital to success. On the topic of teamwork, Kuge said, “Since our sport requires all the trust in the world inside one boat, we rely on each other to train our own bodies and willpower, because we’re only as fast as our slowest rower.”
“beating York in the CAC semi-final.” The team won the tournament semi-finals 2-1 against York College with goals from sophomores Ryan Van Maanen and Jack Saslowsky. The final goal was by Saslowsky, off of a corner kick by senior Mitchell Williams, and Saslowsky said, “My favorite memory from the season was scoring in overtime against York to put us in the Conference final.” Sophomore Conor MacMurdy stated, “Going into finals, I was a bit nervous because we were playing a night game at CNU where we previously lost to them earlier in the year. After the game, I felt a little heartbroken, but I was extremely proud of the team and knew we left everything on the field.” This sentiment was echoed by other players on the team, like Donohoe, who said he felt “very excited, but then disappointed after” having played
in their final game of the season. This season was one of excitement and firsts on both a personal level and as a whole team. MacMurdy said, “My favorite memory from the season was scoring my first career goal against Southern Virginia.” On the whole team history level, this season was the first time in five years that the men have made it to play in the CAC finals. Donohoe said that the goal for next season will be “to win the CAC and make the NCAA tournament.” In regards to prep this season and next, Saslowsky said, “The main areas of focus throughout the season were on making sure the entire team understood the tactics and system we were basing our play around. In preparation for next year, we all plan on ensuring that we keep our fitness up so training sessions can be focused on tactics and
ball work, as opposed to sprinting, along with getting plenty of touches on the ball so we can come into preseason sharp and ready for what the season has in store.” MacMurdy agreed and added, “My areas of focus during the season were to stay in the best shape possible and to be able to keep the whole team positive throughout the year no matter what. For next season, as a team we will be lifting three times a week and play pick up as much as we can do. As an individual, I will run on my own and occasionally lift outside of our team lift.” The talent on the men’s soccer team is not the only common, uniting factor. When talking about the team’s bond, MacMurdy summed it up best by saying, “This team is a family; we love one another and would do anything for each other.”
•JENSEN | 12 The real peak of emotion came in the final two minutes of the game against conference foe, Frostburg State. With the ball, Jensen was fouled while the team was in bonus, sending her to the free throw line, setting her up for the opportunity to score her first college points. As she approached the free throw line, Jensen was overcome by a wave of emotions as she thought to herself, “this is it, this is it.” As she shot the free throw, Jensen said she remembers thinking that the ball had bounced of the rim as high as possible, thinking it would never go in. Then, the sound of the ball falling through the net, Jensen could hear the bench erupting, as after two years of injuries, many tears, pain and sleepless nights, Caitlin Jensen had just scored her first collegiate point. “When she scored her first point; Taylor, Breezi and I all looked at each other and had tears in our eyes. We got emotional because it had been such a long journey, to see that happen was so heartwarming,” Dean said. “It was a proud moment, like a proud mom moment. It was a physical representation of her overcoming all these
obstacles and still going after her dream.” Screams from the stands could even be heard, as a number of the fans had been there along the roller coaster journey that has been Caitlin Jensen’s basketball career. As she shot the second free throw, she did with a matter of ease, as she could hear from the bench coach Applebury say, “get in there.” “Nothing compares to those first points, you dream of it as a kid and it finally comes true,” Jensen said. Another high of emotion had arisen. Despite all that she has been through and overcome, when speaking to her teammates, coaching staff and friends, it cannot be reiterated enough what a positive person she has been throughout this roller coaster ride she has been on. Nothing but the most positive things were said about her on this journey and her strength and absolute love and passion for the game of basketball. When talking to Jensen, she never made it about herself. She made it known how significant her team has been throughout this. “When they say we were a family, we really are a family,” Jensen said.
After losing CAC Final, men’s soccer focused on getting back LAUREN TAYLOR Staff Writer
With an overall record of 14-4 this season, the University of Mary Washington men’s soccer team certainly had an impressive season in which they were able to display all of the hard work and effort that they have put into practicing and honing their skills. This impressive amount of wins took the team to the Capital Athletic Conference CAC tournament championship game, where they played their hardest but lost to Christopher Newport University by a score of 1-0. Now that the season has ended, the men have a chance to reflect upon what they have accomplished and focus their energy into preparing for next year’s season. Sophomore Will Donohoe said that his favorite memory from the season is
Track & Field impresses in first meet
The University of Mary Washington men and women’s track program began its season on Dec. 3 at the Roanoke College Bast-Cregger Invitational as a number of school records were broken and personal bests were set. It was a very exciting day for both track programs, as this season marks coach Kunle Lawson’s second year at the helm and the debut of a deep and talented pool of freshmen. For the women’s team, junior Marin Bader finished second in the mile with a time of 5:39. Junior Janel Moore finished fourth in the 60 meters with a time of 8.16 seconds. Sophomore Jillian Wesibeck finished second in the 5000 meters with a time of 19:38. The Eagles finished second in the 4x200 meter relay, ran by the foursome of Erin Andrewlevich, Danielle Beard, Lauren Esprit and Moore, setting a new school record. The 4x400 relay group of Andrewlevich, Bader, Esprit and Avery Haislip got third place with a time of 4:23. Another third place relay finished was achieved
by Bader, Hannah Huggins, Emily Knerr and Kristy White, with a time of 14:00.37 in the distance medley relay. Haislip took third place in the pole vault at 2.85 meters. The men’s team also had a number of highlights throughout the day. Freshman Cam Rauch placed second in the 300 meters at 36.74. Senior Zach Kerns finished just two spots behind Rauch with a time of 37.20. With a time of 1:26.21, freshman Nathaniel Thompson finished in third in the 600 meters. The 4x200 relay of Rauch, Kerns, Kendall Moses and Eriq Ibar finished in second place with a time of 1:34.18, also setting a new school record. The men’s distance medley relay team of John Gillum, Tate Houff, Kevin McCarthy and Thompson finished in first place, with a time of 11:21.37. Freshman David Danek won the high jump at 1.95 meters while junior Jose Mundo finished in fourth in the triple jump at 13.04 meters. The season for the Eagles will continue next semester, as they will be competing in the CNU Invitational on January 13.
Despite setbacks, Caitlin Jensen keeps pushing
Weekly Scoreboard women's basketball: Dec. 3 vs. York (Pa.) (W) UMW: 57 York: 46
Dec. 7 @ St. Mary's (W) UMW: 57 St. Mary’s: 39
men's Basketball
Dec. 3 @ York (Pa.) (L) UMW: 65 York: 72 Dec. 7 @ St. Mary’s (Md.) (L-OT) UMW: 74 SMCM 83
women's basketball:
Dec. 10 vs. Marymount 3:00 P.M. Dec. 17 vs. Emory & Henry 1:00 P.M.
MEN'S BASKETBALL:
Dec. 10 vs. Marymount
1:00 P.M. Dec. 18 @ Randolph-Macon 2:00 P.M.
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VIEWPOINTS
On the record: truth about RA press confidentiality GINNY BIXBY Staff Writer
Throughout the fall semester, there has been a great deal of controversy surrounding communication between writers for The Blue & Gray Press and Residence Life staff. Many writers have reported reluctance on the part of Residence Life staff, particularly RAs, regarding being interviewed for articles. While speculation was thrown around, it was unclear whether or not Residence Life had a true policy for these situations. Furthermore, the reasoning for any restrictions on staff speaking to reporters was quite ambiguous. As a writer, I was bothered by what I perceived as a lack of transparency on the part of
Residence Life. I got the impression that Residence Life was hiding something they were afraid the student press would uncover, and I was not alone. Hoping for some clarification and insight, I had the chance to speak with Ms. Chris Porter, Director of Residence Life and Commuter Student Services, and her explanations of the university’s media policies opened my mind up to potential issues I had not previously considered. Porter, a former student-journalist, professed that she enjoys speaking to members of The Blue & Gray Press. She made it clear that Residence Life has no issue
with the student paper and was bothered by the confusion that has transpired following writers’ admission that they have had difficulty in speaking to Residence Life staff. “Any organization that you work for is going to have the people that are authorized to speak on behalf of that organization. The person who generally speaks to any media for Residence Life is me as the director,” she explained. “We do not have a media director,” she added. Porter proceeded to explain that this authorization policy is established in order to protect the RAs. “RAs can talk to the press at any time for any reason so long as they are speaking as [a] student. They cannot speak on the behalf of the organization [Residence Life]. That is where that line is drawn. It puts the RAs in a very awkward position when they are asked about their opinions on Residence Life policies. You are essentially asking them ‘did your employer do the right thing?’ That’s a challenge.” Porter also addressed the rumor that RAs have gotten in trouble for speaking to the press, which she stated was “absolutely untrue.” “We might ask the RA not to speak on behalf of the department in the future, but
we have never [punished] anyone.” After understanding the reasoning behind it, the position of Residence Life on this issue is understandable. While it is the responsibility of the press to ask the big questions, there is a line of ethics that must be drawn, especially when it comes to working with fellow students. Prodding an RA for their opinion to the point that they feel uncomfortable is not appropriate. Porter revealed that she was aware of instances in which RAs told student journalists that they were not allowed to speak when in actuality they were uncomfortable with being questioned about Residence Life policies. As journalists, we must be careful to respect the privacy of our sources and not force them to speak about subjects they are uncomfortable speaking about, especially when working with students. It is unethical to force someone into stating an opinion that may put them in a difficult position with an employer, a family member, etc. Additionally, it is important to understand all sides of a story before jumping to the conclusion that someone is hiding something, which is a common assumption in regards to the Residence Life controversy.
umw.edu / Residence Life
It’s difficult to sympathize Americans exercise First Amendment rights in protest TERRI LARUE Staff Illustrator
YOUSEF NASSER Staff Writer On Nov. 29, United States president-elect Donald Trump sent out a tweet that said, “Nobody should be allowed to burn the American flag – if they do, there must be consequences – perhaps loss of citizenship or year in jail!” I would like to preface my reaction to Trump’s tweet by saying that I do not condone the burning of the American flag. I feel that there are far more productive ways to protest impending and unwanted political change than to burn the symbol of our great nation. However, the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects citizens’ rights to free speech, allowing them to assemble peacefully and to petition the government. The First Amendment also clearly prohibits Congress from infringing on those rights. Proposing a loss of citizenship or a year in jail to citizens exercising their First Amendment rights by burning the flag to express discontent with the results of an election is simply unconstitutional and sets a terribly dangerous precedent. My biggest problem with Trump’s reaction to people who have decided to burn the flag as a result of his election is that it is entirely self-serving. It is my opinion that he is making such a proposal for no reason other than the fact that the image of a handful of individuals burning the American flag in response to his being elected is personally upsetting to him. Trump has made it clear throughout his pres-
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idential campaign that he is a proud, yet sensitive man. If any of us were in a situation where we witnessed somebody burning the symbol of our country because we were elected president, I am sure it would be deeply unsettling. We are all human, after all. Even so, it doesn’t matter. Mr. Trump, as the president-elect of the United States, has the obligation to protect the freedoms of ALL U.S. citizens, not just the ones whose beliefs align with your vision for the country. He does not have the ability to make the people who disagree with him magically disappear. If he thinks that he can bend rules that have existed for hundreds of years to better suit his needs, he is sadly mistaken. I fear that is in for a rude awakening come Jan. 20. Presidents have been criticized and panned in newspapers and cartoons since the days of George Washington. If history is any indicator, he too will be criticized and in most instances, will have to turn the other cheek. People who protest or burn flags are doing so for no other reason than to express their discontent with the person that Trump has shown himself to be throughout this year’s campaign. Instead of focusing on the fact that people are burning the flag because he was elected, I think that Trump should think outside of himself and work towards bridging the divide in this country, illustrated by the recent election. This cannot be done by threatening to restrict the freedoms of those who are upset by the results of the election.
“People have been so angry since the election... I’m starting to feel like I’m not welcome in my own country anymore!”
Thursday,January December 2016 Thursday, 21,8, 2015
VIEWPOINTS
Editor: Tessa Cate | blueandgray.views@gmail.com
March on Washington: women’s rights are human rights SHYAN MURPHY Staff Writer
On Jan. 21, 2017, our president-elect will serve his first full day in office. In response, there will be an organized assembly of gender and racially diverse feminists gathered in the nation’s capital in order to demonstrate unity and support for the women of this country. Although this is not an anti-Trump protest, it is a march that serves as a wake-up call for women’s rights as Donald J. Trump serves his first day as our nation’s leader. Women across the country will unify in efforts to support of the rights they fear losing to the new administration. I support this gathering, and view it as a cry for change from the many women across the nation. What began as a social media discussion has catastrophically grown, and as stated by Vox writer, Emily Crockett, this event “has the potential to be the biggest mass mobilization yet that America
has seen in response to a presidential inauguration.” The women and feminist allies participating in this march have come together to ensure that our rights as women and human beings are fully protected and will not change along with the leader. The phrase used among many of these participants is that of a famous line from a speech delivered by Hillary Clinton, stating, “Women’s rights are human rights.” This line serves as the motivation for activists to fight for a positive change in our culture. This march is more than a positive event for the women of our nation, serving as a unifying gesture for our nation as a whole. This entire election has divided our country, and it is time for the people to stand up for their rights and become a more united country again. We have allowed this election to separate the country into different groups,
Facebook / Women’s March on Washington - National Page
spreading hate from one person to the next when we are supposed to have love for our country and those who inhabit it. This is why we need to show support for the more marginalized individuals, especially women belonging to these various targeted groups. The Women’s March on Washington will not only unify the individuals involved and impacted by the situation, but will also help others realize the possible problems to be faced once the president-elect is sworn in and made our nation’s new leader. However, we must not allow our fear to turn to hate, but remain confident in the actions we choose to take and the power we have as the citizens of the United
States. So long as the individuals in charge of this massive event are able to keep the situation as peaceful and organized as possible, I believe that this could inspire change for the better while bringing a lot of individuals closer together for the support of basic human rights. Even if not actively participating, we should stand together in support of these brave individuals who are choosing to exercise their freedom and marching to protect the rights we all deserve. This is our time to come together, so silenced voices can be heard, change can be made, and love can finally be spread instead of hate.
Brace yourself: Staff Ed: Student activism, on winter break is coming campus or in community, is MATT KLINE Staff Writer
As the semester comes to an end, many of us have already started making plans for winter break. Many of these plans range from catching up with friends from back home to working as many hours as possible to return for the spring semester with a large sum of money. But how should students really be spending their winter breaks? As a college student, your end goal after four years of school is to find a job. One of the best ways to do this is by improving your resumes over break. You can also contact local businesses in your field of interest and spend time volunteering while you are home. Some people even believe hitting the books over break will help you get ahead, or at least stay on track in your intended major. By making the most of your time and getting ahead, you give yourself an edge over others competing against you and applying for the same jobs as you are. Getting ahead is a great idea for your free time over break, but it may be a good idea to make sure you’re doing something that won’t burn you out before you get back to college. After your numerous late-night McDonald’s runs during the fall semester, you might be a bit disappointed when looking
at your bank account. Break is a good time to work as much as you can and not be worried about getting behind on schoolwork. Many retailers are hiring this time of year to help combat the mass influx of Christmas shoppers to their stores. This time-honored holiday tradition works to students’ advantage. It also gives the opportunity to make money to do our own shopping. But make sure to save some of that hard earned cash for spring semester’s books and other expenses that will be coming your way. Although getting ahead on your future is a big help, it is your break and some may intend on using it as just that. The advantage of using the break to take a breather from school is that it will help many refresh their focus and return ready to learn in the spring. Many do this because they have burnt themselves out working day and night on schoolwork, especially leading up to finals. Taking this time as a break even if you aren’t burnt out from working hard can still be an advantage, though. There are numerous things that could be done back at home to fill your time, like reconnecting with friends. If you work through break, you may miss the opportunities to see some of your friend with opposing schedules.
“Getting ahead is a great idea for your free time over break.” - Matt Kline
always a great thing
After many months, the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe achieved an important victory with its halt of the Dakota Access Oil Pipeline. The pipeline not only cut through indigenous and sacred land, but posed health and safety concerns for the Standing Rock Tribe and their supporters. However, the win did not just lie the halting of the pipeline, but in what the victory represented as a whole: a victory for environmental and indigenous activism. Meanwhile, students inspired by these events at the University of Mary Washington are taking action against the proposed Atlantic Coast Pipeline, said to go through Virginia, West Virginia and North Carolina. The pipeline poses similar issues in regard to health and safety concerns as the Dakota pipeline. The Sierra Club hosted a panel in Chandler Ballroom to address student concerns about the proposed pipeline and to begin a discussion about it on campus. Through events like the Dakota Pipeline, student activism and voices towards the proposed Atlantic Pipeline have grown. Seeing students speak up and address what is occurring at the local level while becoming a part of a movement shows great promise in a generation plagued by the Millennial title. With students involving themselves and going out into the Fredericksburg commu-
nity to work with the Sierra Club it is clear that this generation plans to do more than get ahead and make money. The passion, dedication and unity of the Standing Rock Tribe along with their supporters brought a lot of light to the pipeline project in the news. This coverage got the event all over social media as well. The event itself centered a lot around the indigenous land and its people and the fight that they had to endure to protect it and those who inhabit it. Just for remaining on the land and protecting the soil, many were tear-gassed and sprayed with freezing water despite the cold conditions they endured staying on the land at night. The world read and followed the event in outrage. It is not only the importance of events like this that have impact, but the constant coverage of events like this that help the affected peoples to fight back. With the Dakota Pipeline to serve as a current and large movement for indigenous and environmental activism, young people are able to be inspired to fight for what they love and fight to protect it. Though the Dakota Pipeline victory is not necessarily the final decision with the incoming transition to a new administration under President-elect Donald Trump, the opposers of the pipeline remain hopeful.
By THE BLUE & GRAY PRESS EDITORIAL BOARD
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LIFE
Editor: Kelly Emmrich blueandgray.life@gmail.com
ResHall Recipes: gingerbread pancakes and banana bread
RUBEN GEORGE Staff Writer
Christmas is filled with happiness and jolliness that gives you a warm and fuzzy feeling on the inside. These are the same emotions and reactions I get when I eat the food this holiday has to offer. My favorite part of a full course meal is dessert. Since I was a toddler, I have always had a sweet tooth. Every Christmas morning my family will have a Christmas breakfast and my aunt will bake my favorite banana bread and gingerbread pancakes. Being a family that is prone to diabetes, we’ve had to cut down on our sugar intake. With that being said, I still have the opportunity to try some of my favorite cakes and sweets during
the Christmas holiday. Here are some delicious recipes I would like to share and I hope you enjoy! Recipes Gingerbread Pancakes • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1 egg • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1/4 cup molasses • 1 1/2 cups water • 1 teaspoon baking powder • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon ground dried ginger • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Method: • Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger and cinnamon
Tracey Wilhelmsen/Flickr
in a bowl then set aside. • Mix beaten egg, vanilla and molasses until smooth in a separate bowl. Whisk in the water. Stir the flour mixture into the molasses to create batter. • Heat a lightly oiled frying pan over medium-high heat. Drop batter using a large spoon onto frying pan, and cook until bubbles form and the edges are dry. Flip, and cook until browned on the other side. ENJOY! Banana Bread • 1/2 cup sour cream • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts • 2 medium bananas, sliced • 2 eggs • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• • • •
Robyn Anderson/Flickr
1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup butter, melted 1 cup white sugar Method: • Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a loaf pan. • Stir melted butter and sugar in a large bowl. Add and mix eggs and vanilla. Mix the flour, baking soda and salt, in a separate bowl then stir into the butter mixture until smooth. • Gently combine the sour cream, walnuts and bananas then spread evenly into the loaf pan. • Bake for 60 minutes. Cool loaf in the pan for 10 minutes. ENJOY!
Couples cozy up at the “Pirates of the Caribbean” dive in movie DEBORAH NGANGA Staff Writer
The University of Mary Washington’s Dive-In Movie event, put on by Campus Recreation in the Goolrick Pool, received a high turnout this past Friday. I went into the event expecting to see a small amount of people, with most of them sitting in the bleachers and maybe three to five in the water, but it turned out to be the opposite of my expectation. Many students were eager to get out of their winter clothes and take a dip in the pool. Campus Recreation projected “Pirates of the Caribbean” directly across from the bleachers and invited all UMW students to watch the movie for free. They were also encouraged to bring a friend with them. As mentioned before, students had the option to either sit in the bleachers or float in the pool with
the floaties that were provided by Campus Rec. About an hour into “Pirates of the Caribbean,” a lot of the students started getting out of the water. A few of them complained of the water being too cold, and the majority of the swimmers decided to finish off the rest of the movie in the bleachers with warm clothes on. At the end, I asked a fellow UMW student, Chris Russotti, who attended the event with his girlfriend, how he enjoyed the dive-in movie. He said, “The screen was bigger last year and they should take the lanes out of the pool, but other than that I enjoyed the atmosphere and had fun.” As I was walking back to my
dark and in a pool can give off a somewhat romantic vibe. I usually spend my Friday nights watching movies anyways and I appre-
Brittanie Hass/ Campus Rec
Brittanie Hass/Campus Rec
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dorm after the movie and reflecting on the recent event, I came to the realization that the Dive-In Movie
could make a great date for couples. I had noticed a good number of couples kissing and floating together in the pool, but I didn’t realize just how good of a date idea that was until later. Most university couples sit and watch movies together in their dorms anyway, so why not change the location from a room to a pool? So, to all the UMW students who are in a relationship and looking for a free but fun date idea, make sure to not miss out on the next Dive-In Movie event. Depending on what movie is shown, the atmosphere of watching a movie in the
Brittanie Hass/ Campus Rec
ciated the change in setting. The movie started at 6 p.m., right around dinner time, so I would recommend either eating before the movie or bringing food along. But if you’re single or in a relationship, with a friend or without, attending the Dive-In Movie event at the Goolrick Pool is a different, fun way to spend your Friday night.
Thursday, December 8, 2016
LIFE
“Fantastic Beasts” relied on CGI and cliché tropes, but still enjoyable
PETER TEAGLE Staff Writer
With the release of “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II” in summer of 2011, many Potterheads undoubtedly wondered what would become of a series of films that spanned a decade. Thankfully for fans of the iconic series, J.K. Rowling continued to develop her wizarding world in “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them.” Though it does not follow the recognizable characters many fans have come to love, “Fantastic Beasts” serves as an effective and entertaining way to flesh out the universe of the series. The story follows a young Newt Scamander, a conservationist of fantastic beasts whose missteps (which are not infrequent) make for moments of levity in a film that actually has some fairly dark moments. Scamander, played by Eddie Redmayne, arrives in 1920s New York with a suitcase full of magical creatures in the midst of a series of unexplained accidents that are terrorizing the muggle community. For much of the film Scamander tries to balance muggle Jacob Kowalski knowing too much, the oft-escaping magical creatures and the subsequent effort to recapture them. The film alternates between two main storylines, one being Scamander’s misadventures and the other being a noticeably darker arc that focuses on a group
called “The Second Salem,” who believes witchcraft is to blame for the mysterious events occurring throughout the city. While the two storylines eventually cross, for much of the film the Scamander storyline deals with more hackneyed themes like friendship and finding one’s way in the world. Without giving too much away, the Second Salem storyline is somewhat of a foil to the Scamander story, addressing the difficulty found in navigating the world one was raised in as it relates to conflicting personal identity. This is not to say that “Fantastic Beasts” is a groundbreaking future classic, but it does make an attempt to do more than just wow audiences with the aesthetic of the universe. With that being said, some aspects of the film can feel like they are flirting with cliché. The Scamander storyline features familiar tropes, a quiet outsider befriending a lovable loser after a series of misadventures. Similarly, there are some scenes that use CGI as a bit of a crutch, attempting to impress the audience with artful creatures where character
UMW student explains the psychology of alone time YOUSEF NASSER Maybe it’s just me want to major in Staff Writer me, but the holiday communication. season is one of The concept I obligation. People learned about is called travel long distances to see their families, autonomy vs. connectedness. The conmake too much food and sit around in cept falls under the broader concept of the same room for hours. relational dialectics, which contemplates In the chaos of the heightened, frenthe idea that the closer two people grow zied atmosphere, I’d often find myself in a relationship, the greater the challengalone. es become to sustain that relationship. For instance, at my grandparents’ Autonomy vs. connectedness can be house, most of the holiday congregation viewed as the contrast between wanting sat in the kitchen and family room area. to express your individuality and wantA trickle might flow over into the living ing to feel connected to others. Both are room. And definitely, more likely than valid and natural feelings. not, someone was always in one or more It used to bother me when I found of the bathrooms. But the bedrooms and myself alone in social settings. I would the two porches were often empty. often wonder if there was something I can remember finding a cousin wrong with me. The class I took and the sitting alone in a bedroom playing a vidconcept I learned about helped me better eogame, or my uncle sitting by himself understand social interactions and I think out of the porch looking across a lake about it often and perhaps especially and enjoying a breeze. during the holidays. And nowadays when we don’t travel Autonomy and connectedness lie and it’s just my immediate family that at opposite ends of a spectrum. In any is celebrating, I notice the same thing. relationship, at any point in time, we all I’ll be downstairs watching football, my find ourselves moving back and forth brother will be in the living room playing between the two in a pendulum-like video games, my sister on her computer motion. The reality is that we may never upstairs and my mom reading a book in reach an equilibrium point, which is her room. okay. In the summer We shouldn’t of 2013, I took an feel guilty for online Introducwanting to spend tion to Commusome time alone. nications course. It’s only natural. From this course, But we must I learned a valualways challenge able lesson that ourselves to helped change make connecmy perspective tions with other on interpersonal people when the relationships and time is right. ultimately made Alone/Facebook
development could have occurred. However, since it is not clear whether this film will open the door for spinoffs or sequels, the slight lack of character depth and development is more forgivable. The film was also released in 3D, which feels somewhat hokey given that it isn’t 2005 anymore. As someone who was indifferent to the Harry Potter film series, I still enjoyed the film. If this is the first of a series of live-action versions of other
Hogwarts textbooks, I could easily see myself making the trip to the theatre. The film is successful because it is a known quantity in a world of increasingly “hit or miss” films and film sequels. Fans of the books and movies will appreciate a chance to revisit the wizarding world (even though it isn’t aboard the Hogwarts Express) and casual filmgoers can appreciate the engaging action sequences and impressive visuals. All in all, “Fantastic Beasts” is a solid 3.5/5.
Fantastic Beasts/Facebook
Finals destress tips for stressed out students ELLIE ADAMS As finals approach If you have time Staff Writer in the next weeks between finals, anothbefore winter break, er de-stress tactic is dread and stress can to take a power nap. be felt all throughout campus. HowevMarion Punches, a sophomore environer, though we all hate finals, there are mental science major, says that “listening always ways to de-stress and distract to music and taking a nap for like 30 ourselves from the tests we have to take. minutes always helps me to de-stress.” Emily James, a junior majoring in Marion also says that breaking up her history and special education, finds that workload really helps. “I like to work in watching funny puppy and baby videos helps her. If you can get past all the politics on social media, take a few minutes away from your studying and watch some cute or funny videos on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube. Another way to eliminate stress is something the campus provides every year around finals. Look out for the adorable service dogs in the lobby of the University Center during finals Sasha the Okay Photographer/Flickr week. They are there to be pet and loved and to act as a de-stresser for 40-minute sessions. Like, study 40 minstudents. Lisa-Marie King, a sophomore utes, take a break for 20, repeat.” majoring in Spanish, says that she loves Stress can distract you away from whenever the dogs come to campus. “I focusing on your studies as much as a love dogs,” she says. “Whenever I’m on dog can, but at least snuggling with a my way cute puppy will help to Jamba make you feel better Juice or before you get back the fourth to work. So with floor, I finals getting closer, stop and and stress building, pet them. find ways to de-stress Having and manage your dogs to time so that you can help relax take a break petting students a dog, taking a nap is such a or watching funny great thing videos on Facebook our camor any other social Steven S./Flickr pus does.” media site.
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LIFE
Professors embrace flipping the field to learn from their students MARY PRAUGHT Contributing Writer
On a recent Sunday afternoon I met with Gwendolyn Hale, the director of the Writing Center and writing intensive program, to teach her a card game called Trash. The premise of the game is simple: to be the first person to flip over all 10 of your cards. Once someone flips over all of their cards, new cards are dealt. However, this time the person who won the previous round has one less card than everyone else. While it’s not a very complicated game, the easiest way to get the hang of it is definitely by playing it yourself. We eventually played a whole game of Trash, with other students who work at the Writing Center joining in. This may not sound like the typical student-teacher dynamic, but two professors here at Mary Washington are starting to change all that. “It helps build relationships you don’t necessarily build in a classroom and lets students see we don’t know everything, and that we can be clumsy and ignorant about certain things, but that we have flaws and that we’re always learning,” Hale said. “We’re always telling students to be life-long learners, but I’m not necessarily sure we always demonstrate that openly to students.” Shawn Humphrey, associate professor of economics, also has his students teach him lessons outside of the classroom, which has led him to learn a whole host of skills he would never have otherwise experienced. “I did the shot put,” Humphrey said. “I swam. I played basketball, and rugby, and soccer. I got beat in them all, which is what I expected and desired. I learned
how to play the game Magic. I learned how to read music on the piano. I learned how to sign Guns and Roses ‘Patience’ in sign language. I learned how to play a Ukrainian card game.” He believes it has changed the dynamic of his relationships with his students. “In the process of competing against them on their field of play we learned from each other and connected,” Humphrey said. “Moreover, being in their space allowed for open and honest communication about their struggles [if any] in class.” Humphrey came up with his table-turning idea called Flip the Field in the spring of 2016, after 11 years of teaching at Mary Washington. The idea behind it allows teachers to learn a skill or talent from their students as opposed to the other way around. He is known for coming up with nontraditional ideas, as he also came up with the Two Dollar Challenge, which requires students to experience something like poverty by restricting how much they spend each day. The event happens every spring. “I am always looking to meet my students in untraditional spaces,” he said. “Flip the Field is another extension of that desire.” Humphrey sent out an email spreading the word about his challenge, hoping other professors would try it too. So far, Hale is the only one he knows of who has accepted the invitation. “It’s so easy to forget what it feels like to be in the students’ seats, and to think I’ve always known this and I don’t remember learning it,” Hale said. “I just thought it was such a great idea.” But so far Hale hasn’t had any students accept her challenge. It might be
because she doesn’t offer extra credit like Humphrey does. “I think at first a lot of people were caught off guard by the idea, but there’s still this notion of instructors up here and students down here and we’re somehow above our students in our knowledge. I just don’t think students felt necessarily comfortable,” Hale said. “The facade that’s been created is that instructors are too busy and important to have relationships outside of the classroom in which they can interact with students, but the things I remember more are the interactions I had with my instructors on a more personal level.” Hale plans on incorporating the Flip the Field opportunity into her office hours next semester, along with an extra credit opportunity to see if that would help bridge any uneasiness students have with seeing her for the first time in such an atypical dynamic. She also believes that having students ask their teachers to participate would help get more teachers involved. “Students have more sway with faculty than we have with each other,” Hale said. I had such a great experience with Hale that I wondered why others hadn’t taken up her offer. So I asked them. “I couldn’t really think of anything I wanted to teach her,” said junior Kirsten Whitley. “I thought
Anatomy of a Finals Student TERRI LA RUE Staff Cartoonist
about it briefly, and I’m sure I might have eventually found something, but I felt odd and not very confident in the concept of teaching my professor…I think there’s a certain intimidation in trying to educate an educator.” Others shared similar sentiments. But they did think the idea was compelling. “It could potentially help the teacher see what a student’s thought process is and how they approach specific problems, which could translate into how they approach different assignments, said Meredith Fierro, a senior. “I definitely think it’s important.” Humphrey does hope that his Flip the Field idea will catch fire. “Spread the word,” he said. “Get the university administration to participate and lead the process of getting not only faculty, but also staff to participate.”
University Relations
Is your iPhone shutting off? Get it fixed for free ANDREW ARENAS Staff Writer
If you find your iPhone shutting off unexpectedly throughout the day, Apple has a launched a repair program for iPhone 6s users. This program targets those affected by a battery flaw, which makes the phones shut down randomly. Apple reported on its website that it affects a “very small percentage of iPhone users that were manufactured between September and October of 2015.” The solution is to replace the phone’s battery for free, however if you have any other issues with your phone, those problems would have to be taken care of first. A cracked screen for instance would hinder the ability to replace the battery and would come with a fee. If you already paid to have your iPhone battery replaced prior to the program’s announcement, Apple will reimburse the repair costs. To check if you’re eligible for the program go to apple. com/support/iphone6s-unexpectedshutdown and enter your phone’s serial number. You can find your phone’s serial number on the settings app under general and then tapping on the ‘about’ section. Apple was quick to clarify that this is not a safety issue whatsoever, a contrast with Samsung’s recent troubles with the Galaxy Note 7. Business Insider found a message on Apple’s Chinese website about what exactly caused the batteries to shut down. It’s related to many of the batteries being “overexposed to controlled ambient air during the manufacturing process.” iPhones are designed in mind to automatically shut down under severe cold weather. If your phone shuts off at around 40 percent battery remaining even under normal conditions, it is to protect the internal components of the device. Apple is still investigating if there were any other causes to this issue, but they have not uncovered any other factors yet.
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NEWS
POLICE BEAT IZZY BRIONES News Editor
Petit Larceny Monday Nov. 28 around 2:30 p.m. petit larceny of a bicycle occurred at the UMW Apartments. The case is pending.
UMW holds ceremony for new honor society on campus
•HONOR SOCIETY | 1
fee of $25, to fund for local chapter scholarships. “Do not be afraid to join and contribute to the society,” Zotos said, that was his advice to freshmen. Student delegates will be able to attend the national convention and leadership workshops. The 2016 National Convention was held at a Walt Disney World Hotel in Florida where delegates took part in philanthropy projects. The society has already been invited to the UVA region-
al conference for the upcoming semester. The crest and charter will be seen in the University Center very soon. “The crest presents the torch and the book are emblematic of scholarship; the pyramid, of strength and the gold star, of noble character. The chain links the symbols together indicating that all three must combined in a person who attain the highest development,” as said by Zotos during the induction ceremony.
FINALS WEEK Don’t be late!
Grand Larceny Between Wednesday Nov. 16 to Saturday Dec. 3 grand larceny occurred outside of DuPont Hall. The case is pending. Saturday Dec. 3 around 1:30 a.m. larceny was reported from the James Monroe Museum. The case is pending.
Sexual Assault Friday Dec. 2 between 4:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. sexual battery occurred at Madison Hall. The case has been closed.
Monday, December 12 Classes taught at 10:00 – 10:50 a.m., MWF Classes taught at 1:00 - 1:50 p.m., MWF Classes taught at 4:00 - 4:50 p.m., MWF Classes taught at 6:00 p.m., M only Classes taught at 7:00 p.m., M only Classes taught at 7:30 p.m., MW Classes taught at 8:30 p.m., MW
8:30 - 11:00 a.m. Noon - 2:30 p.m. 3:30 - 6:00 p.m. 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.
Tuesday, December 13 Classes taught at 8:00 – 9:15 a.m., TR Classes taught at 11:00 – 12:15 p.m., TR Classes taught at 2:00 – 3:15 p.m., TR Classes taught at 6:00 p.m., R only Classes taught at 7:00 p.m., R only Classes taught at 6:00 p.m., TR Classes taught at 7:00 p.m., TR
8:30 - 11:00 a.m. Noon - 2:30 p.m. 3:30 - 6:00 p.m. 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.
Wednesday, December 14 Classes taught at 8:00 - 8:50 a.m., MWF Classes taught at 11:00 - 11:50 a.m., MWF Classes taught at 2:00 - 2:50 p.m., MWF Classes taught at 6:00 p.m., W only Classes taught at 7:00 p.m., W only Classes taught at 6:00 p.m., MW Classes taught at 7:00 p.m., MW
8:30 - 11:00 a.m. Noon - 2:30 p.m. 3:30 - 6:00 p.m. 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.
Thursday, December 15
Possession Saturday Dec. 3 around 7 p.m. underage possession of alcohol occurred in the Eagle Landing Parking Lot. One administrative referral was given.
Classes taught at 9:30 – 10:45 a.m., TR Classes taught at 12:30 – 1:45 p.m., TR Classes taught at 3:30 - 4:45 p.m., TR Classes taught at 6:00 p.m., T only Classes taught at 7:00 p.m., T only Classes taught at 7:30 p.m., TR Classes taught at 8:30 p.m., TR
8:30 - 11:00 a.m. Noon - 2:30 p.m. 3:30 - 6:00 p.m. 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.
Friday, December 16 8:30 - 11:00 a.m. Noon - 2:30 p.m. 3:30 - 6:00 p.m. 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.
Classes taught at 9:00 - 9:50 a.m., MWF Classes taught at 12:00 - 12:50 p.m., MWF Classes taught at 3:00 - 3:50 p.m., MWF Classes taught at 5:00, 5:30 p.m. or any othertime not listed above
POLICE BEAT Vandalism Between Saturday Dec. 3 to Sunday Dec. 4 between vandalism of an exit sign occurred at Eagle Landing. The case is pending. Sunday Dec. 4 at 10 p.m. vandalism of an exit sign occurred at Russell Hall. The case is pending.
CRIME COVERAGE POLICY 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.
The information was compiled with assistance from UMW Police Manager James DeLoatch and Fredericksburg Police Department Public Information Officer Sarah Kirkpatrick.
All information was found on the UMW calendar online.
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Thursday, December 8, 2016
NEWS
Department of Psychology and School of Business receive new homes in Woodard & Mercer Hall Amir korehi Staff Writer
With the student population increasing at the University of Mary Washington, a need for new academic buildings arose, and a plan to repurpose and expand on previously used buildings was set into place. Renovations around campus began in the spring of 2014 and continued until their completion in the fall of 2015. The university has a strong dedication to restoration and the preservation of its history, and the newly opened Woodard and Mercer Halls are examples of this. Recently, Woodard and Mercer Halls were renovated and rededicated. Woodard Hall was appointed as home to the School of Business, and Mercer Hall was assigned as the new Department of Psychology. Both buildings opened to students in the spring of 2015, giving each program a central hub to study in and collaborate with their peers. This was a step in the right direction for both departments. Now that each department has a home, students no longer find themselves attending classes all over campus. On Nov. 18, a rededication ceremony was held in honor of the newly reopened Woodard and Mercer Hall. The ceremony was held in the Red Room of Woodard, which is an open lounge area on the upper level of the building. According to Ken Machande, Associate Dean for the College of Business and guest speaker at the rededication ceremony, the event celebrated the transition of these buildings which were previously a student lounge and infirmary into vital locations on campus for many students. Guests at the ceremony included a long list of the provost, retired and current faculty members, members of the Board of Visitors, the Chief of Staff and President Troy Paino, who spoke at the event. While the new buildings opened in January, Machande noted that this ceremony was appropriately awaited, even for almost a year after opening. Andrea Cordray, the Student Support and Outreach Coordinator, attended the ceremony. Cordray noted that there were many students present, and gave tours of the two newly dedicated buildings. According to both Machande and Cordray, the ceremony was successful and served a great purpose for both of the new areas of research that they house. The reasoning behind the rededication ceremony was that although both buildings previously existed, the buildings now serve new purposes for the university and it was seen necessary to hold the ceremony to recognize their new roles. Woodard Hall, which was the previous Campus Center, was given its name from Mary Washington’s former president Prince Briggs Woodard. The building, which sits above the Nest, was used
Thursday, December 8, 2016
as a commuter lounge for some time until it was closed and left unused until the renovation took place. Now sitting in what can be considered the center of campus is a two-story building full of state of the art tools, which will give business students every possible opportunity to excel in any path they choose. Named after Hugh Mercer, the new home for the psychology department, Mercer Hall has many new features that were added during the renovation, including physiology labs, social development labs and computer labs alongside classrooms. These new additions to campus followed close behind the opening of the Hurley Convergence Center and University Center, which helped further the campus and provide students with the greatest resources to learn. The students in both programs in Woodard and Mercer Hall are grateful for their new buildings that give them a space where they can continue to grow and advance in under their fields.
Finnely Goff / Blue & Gray Press
CORRECTIONS for THE Week PLEASE REPORT ANY MISTAKES SEEN IN THE BLUE & GRAY PRESS TO Chris Markham, blueandgray.eic@gmail.com or Sushma Subramanian, ssubrama@umw.edu In last week’s issue the piece titled, “Humble Olympic gold medalist, UMW’s No. 1 fan,” reported an incorrect number of medals won by Grace Anne Braxton. In the article it says she has a closet full of 700 medals when it is actually 250 medals. In last week’s issue the piece titled, “Shortage of laundry machines in Jefferson Hall inconveniences students” reported an incorrect amount of residents of Jefferson Hall. In the article it says there are 170 residents when it should read 82 residents. A change was made to the Student Government Association Beat, in the italicized box below the motions passed to clarify information about motions passed and motions that have not gone through approval. Also, note that Ethan Carter is the President of Student Senate. Motions passed by the student senate and listed in the paper have not been approved by the Executive Cabinet. Some of the motions identified as passing may fail or change.
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SPORTS
Editor: Mikey Barnes | blueandgray.sports@gmail.com
From tragedy, to triumph - the Caitlin Jensen Story
MIKEY BARNES Sports Editor
It was the last game of summer league basketball, playing with a number of her future teammates. It was in that game, that then rising college freshman and current UMW junior Caitlin Jensen’s life changed. Jensen went for an on-ball trap with a teammate in the last five minutes of the game. The opposing ball-handler skipped through the trap and headed towards the basket. Jensen went to stop the defender, stepped wrong and heard a pop. She felt no pain, but her leg went immediately numb as teammate Megan Green approached her to make sure she was okay. “I just walked off the court,” Jensen said, “I had planned to ice it real quick and then just go back in the game.” A few days following the game, there was no swelling and she was told it was surely not an ACL tear, but opted to go to a doctor a few days later anyways. It was then that the 18-year-old, just two weeks away from moving into her freshman dorm, received some of the toughest news of her life. “I hate to have to tell you this, but you have a torn ACL,” her doctor said. “There isn’t more damage to your knee, but we
Sue Spencer / Perfect Shots are going to have to do more MRI’s.” While she was processing all of this, Jensen’s doctor remained very optimistic in her healing, though it struck Jensen, her season was likely over with an expected six-month recovery timetable. While the news upset and hurt her, Jensen’s mother cried more than she did, watching as her daughter’s season had come to an end before it even started. Despite the bad news, Jensen and her mother acted fast, getting her scheduled for surgery as soon as possible, seeing as move-in was just around the corner. Jensen described everything as very much of a, “whirlwind process.” Though the injury was devastating, there were a few bright spots, as Jensen described with a smile. Her family was very supportive and treated her to a number of, “nice dinners.” Jensen came to Mary Washington from Fairfax, VA, where she attended South Lakes High School and was a member of the varsity basketball program all four years. Outside of the high school season, she played for the PSPA Rams, for AAU. Move-in day arrived and immediately Jensen felt love and support from people both on and off the court. Her roommate, fellow basketball player Taylor Barton helped her journey around campus and get from one place to another as she struggled on crutches for the first two weeks. Current senior, captain Breezi Comden, was also a very integral part of her adjustment. She was always there offering to a lend hand. Jensen also received help from older teammates who had some similar expe-
Thursday, December 8, 2016
riences. Claire Haeuptle, now a UMW alumna, had ACL injuries in both of her legs, so she was knowledgeable and could relate to Jensen’s situation, as could Caitlin Ciniero, who had torn her meniscus in the past. Due to NCAA rules and regulations, Jensen and the team had to be very careful so that she did not lose a year of eligibility. With that being so, the coaching staff kept Jensen close, making her the team manager, which allowed her to travel with the team to all games and be there for practices. So although Jensen was not on the active roster or able to play in the games, she was still considered an important member of the team, which teammate Kelsey Dean reiterated. When talking about the injury, Dean said, “it was important to let her know how valued she was on the team, especially when hurt, it is so easy to get discouraged.” Dean soon realized what Jensen was going through. In the fifth game of the season, playing against Frostburg State, while on a fast break an opponent went through Dean to steal the ball and something “snapped.” She soon realized not long after that another member of the team had gone down with an ACL injury. The team then had two players grieving over injuries, but did not let their sorrows get the best of them as the two adopted the most optimistic outlooks. “I would not have been able to handle it without Jensen,” Dean said, “she kept me from throwing a pity party for myself, she showed me all the positivity from being on the bench.” The two kept each other very much optimistic and grounded, despite Jensen being a couple months ahead in the recovery process. Jensen remained positive and upbeat, waiting on the season to come to an end so that she could play, but also enjoying watch the team being so successful. Dean said she had not realized how hard it was on someone to tear their ACL, until she actually did it herself. “I didn’t realize all the tough things she was going through. I kind of looked over it because she handled it so gracefully, you never would have realized she was even hurting,” Dean said. This went to show the toughness Jensen demonstrated every day. The end of February rolled around and that six-month time table given was finally up and was able to run and perform a number of the drills. With that being the case, the season was not over and she had to do all of her practices and getting back into the swing of things outside of practice so that there were no violations and she did not risk a year of eligibility. Jensen described this part of the season as ‘frustrating,’ stating that she was in limbo in that she wanted the season to end so she could finally get back out there but also did not, because they were playing so well and wanted them to keep winning. Her time eventually came as the season for that UMW women’s basketball team ended in the CAC tournament. It was soon following the season’s end, as she got back into running and drills, that the sixmonth time table set, is surely not as long as it actually takes to get back into the full swing of things. Her body was in a lot of pain after playing pickup and was not in the shape she thought she was, making it a lot longer process than anticipated. The summer rolled around and Jensen was working on getting to where she wanted to be. Then preseason had started. It was the final day of preseason in a scrimmage, everything was going so well. “I had just run the best mile time I had all summer,” Jensen said, “I was finally back to where I wanted to be.” It was in that
last day of preseason, last day of pickup that something horrible happened, again. She drove to the basket, went up for a layup and came down with the feeling of four pops in her knee. She looked up with tears in her eyes to see Megan Green once again there ready to help her up and check on her. With some assistance, she walked off the court and to Ian Rogol,a UMW athletic trainer. Rogol initially examined her, stating that at first glance everything seems to be all right, but an MRI was in order and that she should get on that. Accompanied by Barton, Dean and another teammate, Jensen went to get
“WHEN SHE SCORED HER FIRST POINT, [WE] ALL LOOKED AT EACH OTHER AND HAD TEARS IN OUR EYES.” -Kelsey Dean
an MRI for the opposite knee. Through this process she stayed optimistic as she had been sprinting, jump roping, walking and everything seemed just about fine. Following the results of the MRI, the doctor returned to the room and said, “you are ACL deficient,” and by the look on Jensen’s face he assumed this was something she had already known. Jensen was taken back by these waves of emotions, describing it as “heartbreaking.” She was finally back to where she wanted to be, only to be blindsided yet again. “All that work down the drain,” Jensen said. Her teammates felt the blow as well. “That corner had finally turned and to see that taken away so quickly was discouraging for everyone,” Dean said, “We saw her work so hard to get back to where she wanted to be and then the same thing happened again. We were all emotional for her, we all saw all the steps she did to get back.” Jensen opted to head back home for the surgery to see the same knee doctor she had seen since she was 12-years-old. With the surgery, she was on bed rest, so she was forced to miss the first two scrimmages, but was able to return in time to travel with the team to their first game, which was “pretty rough emotionally,” according to Jensen. The first injury was rough on Jensen, but nothing was like the second. She said she often thought to herself, “why am I doing this?” Constantly in pain as a lot of complications due to the surgery, she just could not get the pain to go away. She had to just sit by another season, as it seemed her dream of playing college basketball was slipping away. She was forced to sit
Sue Spencer / Perfect Shots
back and watch as yet another class came in and was able to put on that uniform and play, while she had still yet to get that experience, helping out on the sideline. Jensen described some days tougher than others, that some days would get complacent, but knew as a good teammate and friend, her optimism needed to be there. She continued to remain upbeat around her teammates as she was excited to see them be successful, but still struggled watch another season slip by. It was not until talking with then assistant coach Lindsey Burke that things finally set in for Jensen and she realized she needed to put her mind to one thing and that was getting back to where she wanted to be. Burke, a former basketball player at Mercyhurst University, also tore her ACL and college, so she had an idea on what her player was going through. “She said to me, you can give up, or you can pick it up,” Jensen said. These words spoke to her, giving her that extra motivation she needed. Jensen worked hard every single day to get back to where she wanted to be, to get back to where she was prior to these injuries. The time finally came. The first day of practice, there Caitlin Jensen was, throwing on that practice jersey for the first time. “You don’t realize how much something means to you until you lose it and then lose it again,” Jensen said. She described the experience of being able to put that jersey on for the first time in full health as “jaw dropping.” That moment was outdone, as for the first time in her collegiate life, heard coach Deena Applebury say to her, “Jensen go in,” in that first scrimmage they played, she was on a high of emotion. With a laugh, Jensen described her first surreal moment was when she got in that first game against Alvernia where she got her first collegiate offensive rebound, soon followed by her first collegiate foul. The coaching staff continuously encouraged Jensen, despite her injuries and inability to play, to remain very much involved with the team and as an active member. Fifth-year assistant, coach Cecil Kegans, has been alongside Jensen through this whole process, dating back to even recruitment out of high school. When describing this journey and where she has come from, Kegans said, “She has come a long way and really worked hard, not just on the court, but just watching on the sideline as well, learning the game.” In seeing all that has transpired, Kegans has seen Jensen grow as not just a basketball player, but as a person and has the utmost confidence in her moving forward. “We know how hard she worked from her senior year of high school,” Kegans said. “I think she can overcome any obstacles in her life because these injuries, they can be lifelong lessons.” •JENSEN| 3
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