The Brandeis Hoot - 1/31/14

Volume 11 Number 3

www.thebrandeishoot.com

Brandeis University’s Community Newspaper • Waltham, Mass.

’DEIS Impact to celebrate social justice

By Emily Belowich Editor

The third annual ’DEIS Impact will begin on Friday, Jan. 31 at 1 p.m. in the Shapiro Campus Center Atrium. ’DEIS Impact is a weeklong festival of social justice that celebrates one of the university’s four founding pillars. It is put together through a collaboration between the Student

Union and the International Center for Ethics, Justice and Public Life, and it is supported by the Louis D. Brandeis Legacy Fund for Social Justice. Through exploring the meaning of social justice in the Brandeis community and around the world, ’DEIS Impact questions where social justice began and how it has evolved into society today.

The weeklong festival is comprised

of 52 events over the course of 10 days, including events sponsored by the Hiatt Career Center, the Department of Community Service, Brandeis Television, student clubs, departments and more. It includes a series of talks, workshops, performances and exhibitions organized by students, faculty, clubs and academic See IMPACT, page 3

photo by calvin wong/the hoot

photo from internet source

deis impact Events start next week for the festival of social justice. On left, Eliza Dushku gave the keynote address at Deis Impact in 2013.

about her work in Uganda. On right, Mandla Mandela stands next a photo of his grandfather, Nelson Mandela. He may be one of Mandela’s grandson to speak at the keynote address this year.

Editor

This Monday, students in East Quad reported a male individual looking into women’s shower stalls, the third incident of this academic year following two reports in Dec. 2013.

The students were informed of the incident by East Quad Community Development Coordinator Stephanie Crane via email. Brandeis Director of Public Safety Edward Callahan sent an email to the Brandeis community on Tuesday telling students that the campus police had documented the report and will continue to investigate the incidents. Callahan also advised students in East to be careful of whom they let into residence halls and to make sure to keep their doors closed, rather than propped open.

CDC Crane first emailed East residents last semester on Dec. 6 after a female resident reported seeing an unknown male individual walking through the women’s bathroom and staring into the occupied shower stalls. At the time, Callahan and public safety were notified, and Crane assured students that there was “no immediate danger to our community.”

The second email came on Dec. 16,

Inside this issue:

a day after a similar incident was reported to campus police. After the incident was reported, the Department of Community Living began working with Brandeis Police and the Dean’s office to catch the unknown perpetrator or perpetrators.

Thursday’s email was relatively similar, except for a provision from Crane and East’s CA staff stating that they are “working with facilities to address issues with shower curtains; including replacement of the current shower curtains with those that will provide more coverage.” The only other new information had come in Callahan’s Tuesday message which contained a vague description of the suspect as a “white male with straight, dark hair,” and again, advice to keep doors close and be watchful of who gets let into quad buildings. Crane’s email also buttressed the idea of community, asking students to watch out for each other in order to protect the student community as a whole.

Unfortunately, these incidents are not the first of their kind at Brandeis.

Early in Jan. 2012, a male Brandeis student was identified by Campus Police as the person who had looked into women’s showers in Gosman.

See UNSAFE, page 2

News: Community upset over NYU plan Arts, Etc.: Surfing band releases new album Opinion: Students can not be deterred by snow Sports: Women’s b-ball shocks Emory Editorial: F-board inconsistent

Page 2 Page 6 Page 12 Page 11 Page 10

Senior theses a major undertaking

By Dana Trismen Editor

Justy Kosek ’14 stands stock-still in a tuxedo stained with blood. The theater and creative writing major is busy this semester perfecting his senior thesis, starring in a play he wrote titled “All You Need.” Kosek plays the title character David, who walks into his bedroom on prom night with blood-spattered clothing. “It’s about family and love and the nature of memories,” said Kosek. The play goes up Mar. 20.

But this is not the only project Kosek is investing his time into. Unlike most seniors, Kosek has elected to pursue two senior theses, one in each of his majors. “I started [my novella] about two years ago independent of any classes on my own, and after taking a couple of workshops with Professor McCauley, he brought up the possibility of doing a senior thesis. I had this story lying around, and I told him I’d like to make it into something professional-looking,” said Kosek. His novella, titled “The Queen of Duchess County,” currently totals around 100 pages.

“Completing a thesis is a major accomplishment, and a great opportunity to engage in an intensive learn-

ing experience of enduring impact.

Choosing to pursue this path offers the chance to explore a topic or question in significant depth and to work through the challenges of choosing your own topic, defining the scope of the work, facing and triumphing over unexpected setbacks and synthesizing everything you’ve learned into a substantial work of art or scholarship,” said Meredith Monaghan, the Director of Academic Fellowships.

Brandeis’ Office of Academic Services’ weekly emails have recently repeatedly encouraged seniors to apply for senior thesis funding, where worthy applicants are allocated funds through the Provost’s Undergraduate Research Fund. “Anyone who submits a good application and can demonstrate a valid use for the funds is likely to be approved,” said Monaghan in an interview with The Hoot this week. “There is no set amount designated for senior theses, but students are encouraged to apply as soon as they know they need funding, since the summer awards (which are announced in March) will use up whatever is left in the fund at that point,” she said.

While theses from all departments See THESES, page 3

Beautiful but bitterly cold

‘Peeping Tom’ a consistent problem in East

By Jess Linde

January 31, 2014

frozen Single-digit temperatures swept through Waltham this week as students bundled up.

photo by marian siljeholm/the hoot

Health center adds nutritionist position

By Shayna Korol

Special to the Hoot

Carolyn Butterworth, MSRDRN (Master of Science, Registered Dietitian and Registered Nurse), was recently added to Brandeis University’s Health Center staff.

She has worked in a college setting for the past 17 years and is also employed at Wellesley College and Massachusetts General Hospital in the

Russian discussion

LGBT activist and visiting professor talk about widespread xenophobia contributing to Russian fears of the LGBT community

News: Page 3

gastrointestinal (GI) clinic.

“I like working with this [collegiate] age group,” she said, adding that she was drawn to Brandeis by the great opportunity that the position presented. “Nutrition affects every aspect of your life.”

With the addition of Butterworth, there are now two dietitians on campus. A dietician is a licensed medical professional with expertise in nutrition, while “nutritionist” is an unoffi-

cial term for a nutrition specialist and does not refer to a specific medical credential.

Kate Moran, RD, LDN (Registered Dietitian and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist), coordinates between students and Dining Services and addresses issues of food allergies and healthy eating, while Butterworth works in the Health Center and is See NUTRITIONIST, page 4

Arts & crafts Student vendors sell personally crafted jewelry, clothes and photographs to other students

Arts, Etc.: Page 8

news

2 The Brandeis Hoot

January 31, 2014

College Notebook

Community fights back against NYU expansion

By Charlie Romanow Staff

When a college’s academics and financials are working well, they will likely want to expand to attract more students and make more money. Expanding and renovating a campus can be difficult and can infringe on populations outside of the school and bother students and faculty. Fellow University Athletic Association member, New York University finds itself in this situation. NYU 2031, a 20-year plan that culminates in the school’s bicentennial, has critics surrounding from all sides.

A State Supreme Court decision by Judge Donna Mills this month is preventing the school from moving on in full force with its $6 billion plans to expand and renovate two large “superblocks” just south of its Greenwich Village Campus in Manhattan. This comes after years of back and forth involving the university administration, city and state officials and local residents. The judicial decision allows the school to construct the largest building in the NYU 2031 plan, the one-million square foot Zipper Building. The facility will be built on the current site of the university gym and will provide new classrooms. The potentially 26-story building will not

begin construction until at least next year as the design specifics await a final report by a faculty-led committee.

The remaining three buildings of the superblocks were to comprise nearly one million square feet. The university’s plans have been reduced by over one million square feet in the past few years due to opposition by the community. Revisions have included the removal from the plan of a university hotel, permitting less commercial space and requiring lower buildings.

Plaintiff and Assemblywoman Deborah Glick said, “NYU must go back to square one and present a different plan that does not include these open space elements,” according to The Huffington Post.

Both sides have had positive and negative reactions to the ruling with NYU officials saying that they are glad that they can proceed with the Zipper Building, which is to be located on the southern superblock along Mercer Street.

A university issued statement reads, “This is a complex ruling, but the judgment is a very positive one for NYU,” due to five of the six claims made by opponents being thrown out of court.

The area involved in this most recent court decision is located two

blocks south of Washington Square Park, comprising the land between LaGuardia Place, Mercer Street, West Houston Street and West Third Street.

The basis for the court decision on the land comes from the unauthorized distribution of public parks by the Bloomberg administration to NYU. There is some grey area concerning the parklands though, as they were not officially deemed as parks by the New York City Parks Department but were technically mapped as unused streets. Despite this, they were used as any other city park and the signage for the parks was the same as other city parks. Randy Mastro, representing the plaintiffs, said that legal precedent forbids the city and state from repurposing parkland whether it’s officially designated as such or not.

The school will likely discuss the matter with community members before deciding whether to appeal Mills’ decision.

Many individuals in the thriving and desirable Greenwich Village area have voiced their concerns regarding the proposed expansion. Celebrity residents of the area Matthew Broderick, Padma Lakshmi and John Leguizamo have voiced their concerns, as the first two attended public meetings in 2012, and Leguizamo spoke on behalf of the Greenwich Village

Society for Historic Preservation this month.

Tony Award-winning Matthew Broderick, a lifelong resident of the Village, said, “NYU has taken more and more of what’s unique about the Village.”

The group supports the university and its general growth but wants it to expand in a way that is responsible and respectful of its surroundings.

The residents’ concerns not only stem from the current plans that NYU has, but also the changes that the school has made to the community in past decades, building large high-rise buildings in what had long been an historic residential neighborhood.

Numerous NYU faculty members are against the plan as well. NYU Faculty Against the Sexton Plan (NYUFASP) includes over 400 NYU faculty members who are attempting to fight against the school’s plan. The group’s name comes from the head of the NYU administration, President John Sexton. NYUFASP’s objections include lack of faculty input and governance, possible increased tuition due to the multi-billion dollar plan, the disintegration of the cultural history of the neighborhood, a huge increase in the amount of foot and vehicle traffic in the area and focus being placed on land values over education.

The university’s plan incorporates adding academic space, student and faculty housing and some public space to replace any that is lost. Additional projects being planned away from the central campus include the Health Corridor on 1st Avenue and facilities in Downtown Brooklyn and Governor’s Island. Residents are also concerned that the schools plan will demolish affordable housing, further changing the area.

NYU and New York City have assisted each other since NYU’s establishment. The school employs over 16,000 local residents and 240,000 of its 360,000 alumni live in the metropolitan area.

Former mayor Michael Bloomberg said, “It’s very hard to differentiate where New York University stops and New York City starts. That is one of the real keys to NYU—the city goes right through it. NYU benefits from the city, and the city benefits from NYU.” Whatever compromise or decision comes out of the tension will have a strong effect on the university as well as the city and metro area as a whole.

The 11 groups who filed a lawsuit in September in Manhattan State Supreme Court will speak in court on Mar. 20.

Theses vary based on department produce a major piece of writing), others require students to take a specific series of courses (e.g. math) or to complete a senior project (e.g. music),” said Monaghan.

Thesis participation also varies by department. “The percentages vary depending on the department and the year, from as low as 3 percent to as high as 100 percent (in a major with two graduating seniors, both of whom complete theses),” said Elaine Wong, senior associate dean of arts and sciences. Miller stated that five to 10 neuroscience students will complete a thesis, out of 30 to 40 seniors.

All departments agree that a thesis is a worthwhile pursuit. “Writing a thesis is not for everyone, but it can be a very rewarding way to round out your academic experience at Brandeis,” Monaghan said.

“Most faculty believe it is one of the most rewarding intellectual activities a student can undertake,” said Wong. “Research and writing skills are honed, and a close mentoring relationship with a faculty advisor can be formed. A student learns about the challenges and rewards of researching a subject about which they are passionate.”

photos courtesy justy kosek

justy kosek Here Kosek stars in “The Glass Menagerie.”

THESES, from page 1

can receive funding, what that thesis will look like varies greatly by department. For example, neuroscience theses often require working closely with a professor or a senior lab member on research projects. Students will often work in the same lab for years, and then focus just on the thesis project for one or two years. “While the writing of the thesis may take a month, its content and overall value depends on the thoughtfulness in the design and the care and dedication in the completion of the experiments over the preceding one to three years,” said

Paul Miller, an assistant professor of biology and undergraduate advising head for the neuroscience program.

And while the basic outcome of a neuroscience thesis is similar to other departments (students hope to graduate with Honors, High Honors or Highest Honors) there are other factors at stake, such as graduate school. “Any career in science requires thoughtful design of experiments and an explanation of the results in the context of other prior and ongoing work in the field. Completion of a thesis allows a student to gain such experience, helping them understand the mode of scientific research. Therefore, it is a good indicator of a student’s ability to perform well in graduate school, so is a strong boost, if not essential, to the

admissions process,” said Miller.

For Kosek, whose theses are creatively-based, he hopes they may lead to offers of publication further down the road. “Writing my theses gave me a good sense of what writing might be like in the real world. Having a larger scope and a bigger goal to finish in a limited amount of time in a semester is a strong impetus to get work done,” he said. His aspiration is to publish his novella within a book of short stories.

“Each department has its own set of standards and requirements for honors consideration, which are listed in the Bulletin. While many departments require a traditional thesis (students enroll in a year-long course, conduct independent research, and

eumenidies Kosek has starred in multiple performances throughout his Brandeis career.

Now he will bring his own production to life, in a play he wrote called “All You Need.”

January 31, 2014

NEWS 3

The Brandeis Hoot

Campus event spotlights Russian culture and xenophobia

By Rachel Dobkin Staff

On Tuesday night, LGBT activist and journalist Masha Gessen and Smith College Russian history professor Sergey Glebov led a discussion about xenophobia, a trend that currently dominates society in Russia.

Brandeis Russian studies professor and director Irina Dubinina moderated the conversation, which consisted of three segments. Glebov first spoke about various historical and sociological aspects of Russia to provide the audience with some background information. Gessen then spoke about xenophobia and her LGBT experiences as a Russian and how this issue arose. Finally, the

speakers opened the floor to the audience to ask both Gessen and Glebov any questions.

Xenophobia, the main topic of the program, is defined as the fear or hatred of strangers, foreigners or anything that is strange or foreign. In the context of this discussion, the xenophobia that runs rampant in Russia is the fear of the LGBT community, a topic which recently has gained much publicity.

Glebov first pondered what social processes provoked this immense hatred and fear of the LGBT community that started brewing in the 1990s.

Interestingly, he remarked that the growth of this xenophobia mimicked the Aryan feel of post-Weimar Germany which, similarly to Russia, ex-

perienced an economic collapse and loss of power.

Gessen asserted that the event that fueled this was Putin seeing gay campaigns. These campaigns shocked him, and their bold and liberal views conflicted with Russia’s conservative and traditional values. He saw the LGBT community as the “ultimate other” that opposed Russia, as a community that he could attack without global uproar. He and the Russian government portray LGBT people as the antichrist, who are subhuman and pose a grave and imminent danger to the country.

The speakers raised the point about how there are many LGBT or genderbender singers and performers who are revered by many Russian indi-

viduals and are accepted as LGBT, while normal citizens are abhorred by the anti-gay Russian population.

Putin tried to ban LGBT propaganda, but this was not enough. Even sperm donations have been banned by the government. Throughout this time, Russia has grown extremely anti-gay, anti-American and anti-immigration, which has collectively constituted Russia’s first ideology for 25 years.

Gessen is an American and Russian journalist, author and LGBT activist. Her work has been featured in Vanity Fair, The New York Times and US News and World Report. She has also authored two books: “The Man Without A Face: The Unlikely Rise of Vladimir Putin” and “Words Will Break Cement: The Passion of

Pussy Riot,” which discuss Putin’s rise to fame and presidency and an LGBT protest in Russia, respectively.

The discussion took place in Mandel Atrium. The room was packed with students and members of the LGBT and Russian communities of both Brandeis and the greater Boston area. The audience was extremely enthusiastic about both the topic of conversation and the speakers, which served as a central part of the program. The atrium could have benefitted from more chairs, considering that some guests were standing and sitting on the floor. Additionally, it was slightly challenging to understand everything that was discussed at the program without more of a background in Russian history.

photos by shanlai shangguan/the hoot

shavit Ari Shavit spoke at Brandeis on Monday about his book, “My Promised Land: The Triumph and Tragedy of Israel.”

Women feel unsafe in East Quad See UNSAFE, page 1

But unlike the recent events, the suspect was caught in under a month, due in part to Gosman’s utilization of CCTV and the records stored from card-readers.

Certainly, Brandeis Public Safety would not be able to use the same methods of investigation when looking into incidents in residential buildings, as there are simply too many people going in and out, issues of privacy relating to CCTV notwithstanding.

However, with increasing reports of sexual assaults on campus and several thefts from

rooms unprotected by video surveillance technology, students are not ignoring these issues.

Students expect that the university must be at least willing to consider alternative steps if they do not feel safe within their residence halls because of “peeping,” theft or other reasons.

While students know to be diligent and take responsibility and participate to help make the on-campus environment safe and inclusive, they expect Brandeis to respond if incidents keep occurring when students have done their part.

Student Union Election Results Associate Justice (1)- Abstain Finance Board Member (1)- Abstain Midyear Senator (1)- Mitchell Beers Off-Campus Senator (1)- Michael Kosowsky Rosenthal Quad Senator (1)- Jesse Ruth Class of 2017 Senator (1)- Ben Margolin Village Quad Senator (1)- Jeff Tan

4 ADVERTISEMENTS

The Brandeis Hoot

Social justice festival to invigorate campus

HEADLINE, from page 1

departments. A new addition this year is the option to attend one of 10 featured “open” classes that all explore social justice from the point of view of a particular discipline. These classes are open to the community to explore how the syllabus of a business, psychology, history, economics or sociology class aligns with social justice values.

This year’s keynote speakers are Kweku Mandela Amuah and Ndaba Mandela, grandsons of the late Nelson Mandela, who will deliver the address at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 5. Another speech sponsored by the Schuster Institute for Investigative Journalism will happen at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 6 and will feature Sister Helen Prejean, death penalty opponent and author of the best-selling book “Dead Man Walking.”

As a member of the staff at the Ethics Center and a chair on the steering committee, Marci McPhee calls this a “uniquely Brandeisian event.”

She believes there is no other event at Brandeis that has created a partnership between students, faculty and staff the way ’DEIS Impact has.

“Very often, students are in one world, and faculty and staff are in another world. We have co-created something with the students, and it

has been remarkable to capitalize on the energy the students have for a variety of causes,” McPhee said.

She says that there is a true benefit of having this event on a college campus in that it is an opportunity to give college students multiple interpretations of the meaning of social justice.

McPhee stated, “Not only are we seeking to actualize social justice, we are interrogating it and what it means. And particularly at a university, it’s a question of how we can actually achieve this, and what can a college student do to make greater strides?”

McPhee recalled the various speakers, conferences and symposia that the Ethics Center has brought to campus since the center’s establishment in 1998. It was not until a few years ago that she decided to approach the Student Union president at the time to say that there needed to be more student involvement.

“It dawned on me that there was so much energy here on campus, but we were only inviting the students to these events, not actually involving them. I thought that we needed to create something together and do this event in more of a community organizing style fashion,” McPhee said. ’DEIS Impact now has a core committee of eight students, called the

’DEIS Impacters, in addition to many other students working in collaboration with faculty and staff on various subcommittees to help make the event run smoothly. ’DEIS Impact student chair, Avishek Neupane ’14, believes this event is unique because of its diversity in topics and people that come together.

“We have a wide range of events, including topics in labor, culture, race, genocide and prisons,” Neupane said. “We work with students, faculty and staff that all add a different value to this campus but are all passionate about Brandeis and its commitment to social justice.” ’DEIS Impact committee members are selected in September, but Neupane said that the collaboration starts over the summer.

“We interview every applicant because we want to give them an opportunity to share their passion for social justice. This event is so beautiful because it is a true testament of showing Brandeis’ values first-hand,” Neupane said. ’DEIS Impact will conclude on Monday, Feb. 10 in Hassenfeld Conference Center at 5:30 p.m. with the third annual Brandeis SoJust Leadership Forum, featuring Brandeis alumni who will share how social justice has been incorporated into their careers.

January 31, 2014

Butterworth to promote campus health NUTRITIONIST, from page 1

an expert on GI nutrition. She promotes overall wellness and advises students on medical concerns such as disease, sleeping habits, allergies, anemia, changes in eating patterns and meets with student athletes looking to improve their nutrition.

The nutritionists work together on eating disorder prevention and education.

Butterworth also collaborates with Director of Athletics Sheryl Sousa to promote better health on campus.

According to Butterworth, there is one most important thing that a college student can do to be on top of his nutrition: “Planning is key.”

The lives of college students are very busy, she explained, so getting off schedule is very common. The human body operates best on a consistent “clock,” and an irregular sleeping pattern, like a staple of late-night study sessions followed by weekend jetlag, disrupts students’ biological rhythms. Eating on the run, another hallmark of college life, exacerbates the problem.

Butterworth advises students to “look at college more like a job. Eat meals on a schedule, go to bed at the

same hour, and think back to your high school schedule, which was much more regimented.” Good habits are essential to good health, and continuity is essential for maintaining it. Given the reality of classes, schoolwork, extracurriculars (paid and otherwise) and the challenges of maintaining a vibrant social life, going to sleep at the same time every night is not usually high on a Brandeis student’s list of priorities— but Butterworth said that should be. Sleep deprivation reduces concentration and decreases academic performance as a result, and a lack of sleep makes the immune system more vulnerable to illness. Planning your days to allow for a more regular sleep schedule is a step toward increasing your overall health. Like nutrition and exercise, sleep is one of the cornerstones of wellness.

She is willing to talk to students about a variety of things, being a nurse with a broad base of medical knowledge in addition to a registered dietitian.

If students or faculty have any questions for Butterworth, they can make an appointment at the Health Center by calling 781-736-3677.

The Health Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

photos by marian siljeholm/the hoot

ice Bitter cold created delicate patterns on the trees an in the snow.

January 31, 2014

The Brandeis Hoot

NEWS 5

photos by katie chin/the hoot

Student artists sell their work to the Brandeis community See page 8 for more

photos by matt brondoli/the hoot

ARTS, ETC.

6 The Brandeis Hoot

January 31, 2014

Switchfoot dares themselves to move musically

By Clayre Benzadon Special to the Hoot

Switchfoot, the American alternative rock band, released their new album, “Fading West,” on Jan. 14. The music in this album has a laid-back but uplifting feel that really relaxes you, as though you are on a beach or surfing. This plays to the name of the band, Switchfoot, which is a surfing term meaning to stand on your board facing the opposite direction. They also used this word to represent taking a new perspective and direction in life.

Listening to the lyrics also confirms the calmness and beauty incorporated in these songs, as most are poems that paint a beautiful picture in our heads of “the sun going down like a photograph” and of the fire “burning brightly” in the song “When We Come Alive.”

The musical intensity and the high, harmonized voices add to the bright colors of red, pink and orange that we visualize of the sunset and the fire.

Additionally, the song “Love Alone is Worth the Fight” emphasizes the conception of paradise through words

such as “oasis,” “illusion” and “love.”

As listeners progress through the album, there is a indie vibe that gradually increases with every song. Since the band used to have more of a punkrockish style, they keep the edgy vibrations of the guitar while also impressively maintaining a lively sort of energy in songs like “Say It Like You Mean It,” which, with just reading the lyrics, anyone can tell that “this noise of rock and roll” adds “soul” to the groove and beat. This contrast of intensity and lightness of sound adds another sort of beauty that represents a transformation from the struggles of the past to reawakening and feeling invigorated by a certain happiness or metaphorical “sunlight.”

This also demonstrates Switchfoot’s mastery in the variety of different musical styles they are able to play.

The experimentation of all kinds of sounds opens them up to new opportunities and will hopefully garner them more recognition as well as more inspiration for the next albums to come.

It’s no wonder their fans are so committed. The band cares deeply about their fans, giving them endless opportunities for meet and greets and allowing them exclusive previews of

recording processes of their new albums.

They also participate in many organizations for the less fortunate.

They have created Bro-Am, a benefit surfing contest and music event that raises money for local charity organizations, such as Care House, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping homeless teens. Also, the

band joined with To Write Love On Her Arms, another non-profit organization which helps young people struggling with problems such as depression, drug addiction, self-harm and suicide.

The band launched a website and magazine online called LowerCasePeople.com for music, arts, words and (get this, Brandeis) social justice! On

the band’s Youtube page, they write, “Musically, we wanted to go places we’ve never been before. We wanted to put out a more diverse collection of musical projects with more artistic control. Since music plays such a crucial role of connecting people with important issues around the world, we wanted to be a part of a label that gives directly to social justice causes.”

photo from internet source

musical maturation Switchfoot has proved their maturity not only musically but also as a band.

Senior film major isn’t hedging any bets yet

By Theresa Gaffney Editor

Sam Bender ’14 knew from the get-go that he was going to be a film major. Hoping that he wouldn’t start to hate watching movies, he came to Brandeis for the unity that the community fosters in the program, rather than competition as seen at other schools. “Film is such a collaborative art. You can’t just do something entirely by yourself,” he said. Four years later, he prepares to graduate with a host of invaluable experiences under his belt through the arts at Brandeis.

While at other schools Bender would have had to work his way up a hierarchy of power before being able to gain experiences with film, he dove right into it as a first-year. “I was able to work in the Getz lab, have access to all the equipment and differ-

ent projects, to work with seniors or first-years and everyone in between,” Bender said.

Bender is a double Film and Global Studies major. In his junior year he studied abroad in Prague, and now he may be making plans to go back to the area post-grad. Though he would ideally be working in New York or Los Angeles, Bender wants to live abroad first. “I’m applying to different grants and scholarships and fellowships … looking into different ways I can do that.”In his post-grad pursuits, Bender is using every connection that he can. “People who have different connections that I’m talking to, or people that I’ve met and could stay with and can work and try and get experience,” he explained. “I’m trying to live in Berlin, but could be in the Czech Republic, or any of those places.”

A scholarship or grant abroad

would give Bender the opportunity to work with filmmakers as an assistant. “Some of the projects I’m proposing are to do historical documentaries about different animators in Europe or different movements,” he explained.

“I know the most ins and outs there, so I feel like I could do the most comprehensive work there.” Bender is open to changing this, but for now his background in speaking German is best suited to live in Europe.

Here at Brandeis, Bender has accumulated a wide range of experience working in film. His biggest project has been the formation with his friend of a company that produces promotion videos for small businesses. They started two summers ago. “We decided that we had the equipment, we had the knowledge and we certainly had the means and ability to make these short videos for people who are

no plan b “If you have a backup plan, you won’t succeed in the first place,” says Bender, who will be graduating this spring.

interested in getting their name out there.” Together, they have produced multiple videos for businesses, such as a screen-printing company, a oneperson massage company and a law firm. “It’s time consuming, which is why it costs so much money in the real world.”

Bender explained that the business was successful because of the deal he and his friend could offer small businesses. “We were working on the basis that we wanted experience, and not money so much, and people didn’t want to pay for stuff,” Bender explained. “We had a lot of time.”

One of Bender’s most memorable projects is a music video that he helped to create in the SCC Theater.

“We built a restaurant next to an alley next to a bedroom next to a courtyard next to a restaurant,” Bender said. “It didn’t feel college-y,” he explained, remembering the intricate set de-

sign. “We created the whole video in a week, and it was insane.”

Time is not so easy to find now for Bender, as a senior. While he did not have time for a big final project or thesis, Bender is still busy working on different productions. “I’m helping to edit a documentary, doing a lot making the promotional videos,” he noted, in addition to working at Getz Media Lab, WBRS, other groups and, of course, taking classes. His main focus, though, is to figure out his plans for after graduation.

Bender knows that it isn’t easy to find work after college. “Nobody’s getting jobs,” he acknowledged. But he has no plans to resort to any Plan B’s. Quoting someone on how to succeed in music, Bender noted, “If you have a backup plan, you won’t succeed in the first place.”

“I really want to do this,” he said.

“I’m not going to hedge my bets yet.”

photos courtesy sam bender

in bloom Bender’s latest film, “In Bloom” won at the Ivy Film Festival last year.

January 31, 2014

ARTS, ETC. 7

The Brandeis Hoot

Brandeis choral groups celebrate Mozart’s birthday

By Michelle Kim Editor Zach Bellis Staff

Even if you don’t listen to classical music, you’ve probably heard of Mozart, who is widely considered one of the most prolific and influential musical composers of all time. Mozart’s music is generally very refined and transparent. As he is from the Classical era, Mozart prescribed the exact pitch, speed, meter, rhythms and musicality on his music scores. Therefore, his music has less wiggle room for improvisation and personal embellishments. One characteristic that differentiates amateurs from higher quality musicians is the ability to perform Mozart without being boring.

Fittingly, on the 258th anniversary of his birth, Brandeis’ musical department paid tribute to the celebrated composer with the event “Rock Me Amadeus: Celebrating Mozart’s Birthday with a Community Sing” in the Slosberg Music Center auditorium. Led by director James Olesen and pianist Eric Mazonson, both ensembles sung an eight-piece selection of some of Mozart’s famous choral works.

I expected a literal community sing, in which the audience would also participate in the song. Reluctant to sing myself, I sat in the back of the auditorium, hoping that I would not be pulled up by the director. For-

tunately, the community sing was a performance by the Brandeis Chamber Choir, the University Chorus and a few musically-enthusiastic faculty.

The audience, though sparse, was generally quite excited and consisted mainly of students, faculty and parents who appreciate Mozart.

The all-female Chamber Choir opened the event with two Masonic pieces, “Today let all the air be ringing” and “O, thou our benefactor,” with the latter featuring a solo from soprano Elena Glen ’17. Glen performed beautifully and could easily be mistaken for a professional opera singer. Her clean yet emotional vibrato was impressive.

Following the Masonic pieces was the beautiful canon “Ave Maria.” For those who are unfamiliar with canons, they are generally works where multiple voices sing the same melody but at different times. One of the most famous examples of the canon is Pachelbel’s Canon, which is widely recognized as a wedding march song.

Not to be confused with Beyoncé’s “Ave Maria” (no offense to her, but she plagiarized that song from Franz Schubert’s 1825 composition), Mozart’s version is beautiful and melodic. The Chamber Choir sang with mellifluous harmony, and when closing my eyes, I imagined that I was listening to a professional recording.

The Choir continued their performance with the dreamy and meditative notturno (also known as a nocturne) “Luci care, luci belle,” which

translates to “Dear lights, beautiful lights” from Italian. Unsurprisingly, the end of their rendition of “Luci care, luci belle” was greeted with a loud round of applause. Although there was no solo, it was just as compelling as the previous three pieces.

The University Chorus then took over the stage to perform the final piece of the night. Noticeably larger in size and co-ed, the chorus, with a handful of volunteer singers, sang four excerpts the Requiem Mass in D Minor, K. 626. The first movement, “Introit: Requiem aeternam,” featured an impressive solo by Miriam Goldman ’14. Following the “Introit” were the second movement, “Kyrie eleison,” and selected parts, “Dies Irae,” and “Lacrimosa,” of the third movement “Sequentia.”

Following the show, audience members joined the choir members for refreshments in the lobby, including two chocolate cakes (one kosher and the other non-kosher) with “Mozart” deliciously iced on top of each.

Members of the audience complimented the choir members in person after being wowed by their singing.

It’s such a shame that classical music is not as widely appreciated in pop culture as it should be. However, those who love it—and trust me, there were, are and will be millions of us for an extremely long time—are loyal appreciators. There’s a reason why all-time greats such as Mozart are still remembered and beloved. Indeed, it was a happy birthday in honor of Mozart.

photo from internet source

happy birthday mozart One of the one most influential people in the history of music,

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is celebrated all over the world.

‘Sherlock’ premiere exciting but unsatisfying

By Shikha Chandarana Special to the Hoot

Sherlock is so brilliant that the Sherlock fanbase was screaming for more seconds after the British show’s second season finale, which ended on a mind-blowing cliff hanger. It is so unfair that we had to wait an entire year only to watch such a mind-altering ending.

Each season is only three episodes long, which helps makes the show extremely popular. This January marked the show’s triumphant return to excited fans and critics alike. However, this season left much to be desired in comparison to previous installments of the series.

The premiere episode was meant to answer questions from the season two finale but did not fulfill expectations of the viewers. The creators

produced an homage for the show’s rabid fan base, though they did not adequately address the extensive and widely-speculated theories that the fans have imagined since the pilot.

They glossed over some of the fan base’s ideas in order to feed the forever-hungry fandom. The hilarious rooftop kiss between Sherlock and Moriarty, for example, hinted that the show’s writers were well aware of the sometimes ridiculous ideas fans had created.

Another important aspect of the premiere was to show the reunion of John Watson and Sherlock Holmes, which was well written, emotional and wildly original. The writers did a fair job with making those scenes both emotional and comical.

Contrary to what many people would have thought, the reunion was not a momentary part of the episode; instead, the premiere focused on its repercussions. Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays Sherlock, and Mar-

tin Freeman, who plays Dr. John Watson, have the ability to play off of each other’s emotions and energy in every kind of scene, from action to comedy.

The highlight of this episode was the artful and unexpected way Watson reacts to Sherlock’s return, after faking his death in season two. If the answer to the question of how Sherlock had survived left fans disappointed, the brilliant scenes between Watson and Sherlock probably remedied their dissatisfaction.

Every character on the show is given a chance to showcase his or her reaction to Sherlock’s return to London, which was a good way for viewers to gauge the characters’ personalities and relationships to Holmes. My personal favorite reaction was that of Rupert Graves’ Inspector Lestrade, who has a stable yet frustrated response to the man’s return. Molly, the meek assistant at the morgue, also gets her moment to shine in the episode, when she accompanies Sherlock to

watson and sherlock The beloved case-solving duo are brilliantly portrayed by Martin Freeman and Benedict Cumberbatch.

help him solve a crime. We see a stark difference in the relationship between Molly and Sherlock, which brings out the more human aspects of Sherlock and furthers the brilliant attributes that Molly possesses.

A new character, Mary Morstan (played by the talented Amanda Abbington) is introduced. Mary is Dr. Watson’s fiancée. Her character transcends the boring love interest stereotype by being a well-rounded and compelling individual who seems to have her own mysterious back-story.

Abbington and Freeman share an infectious chemistry in their scenes together. They consistently throw great one-liners at each other. In the season premiere, Mary also develops a friendship with Sherlock. Unlike other female characters related to Watson, Mary is the most developed, best written and at some points is almost as fascinating as the leads. All-in-all, the addition of Abbington to the cast is a welcome change.

Even after all the small character details, “Sherlock” in the end is about the mystery, although this episode was not the best example of a compelling puzzle. The main mystery plot that surrounds the premiere is loosely written and is almost a secondary story of the episode. The villain introduced was not even half as menacing as the iconic Moriarty. In fact, at some points he was laughable. This doesn’t extend to Charles Magnusson, who is shown momentarily in the end of the episode, who seems to have the personality that could lead to a fascinating finale.

After two years of waiting, viewers had high expectations. Although the premiere didn’t live up to a lot of those ideals, it managed to be an entertaining hour and half of television. It led to an interesting start to the series, with a lot of opportunity to reach the level that the previous seasons have achieved. Unfortunately the premiere just didn’t feel “Sherlock” enough.

last season’s cliffhanger Sherlock fakes his suicide.

photos from internet source

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The Brandeis Hoot

January 31, 2014

From Brandeisians to arts vendors

By Joanna Murphy Special to the Hoot

It was Friday at 2 p.m., and the SCC was packed with students. Why, you might ask? Did Einstein’s decide to give out free bagels? Was the bookstore giving 50 percent off all text books? As amazing as all of that would be, something much more exciting filled the normally empty atrium of our beloved green building: a students’ arts and crafts fair. I was immediately drawn to the eight or so tables lined with gleeful students. What could possibly be so special about arts and crafts? As I made my way to front of the line, I realized what all the commotion was about.

There were jewelry, photographs, hats, clothes, bookmarks and even soap. Each table had something very different to offer, and behind each table, I found familiar faces. Fellow students were now selling things that I wanted, things that many people wanted, and the best part? All of these items were made by the students themselves. The talent of these “vendors” inspired me; never would I have imagined that the people I went to school with were creating such beautiful art pieces, let alone selling them.

The first table was lined with dazzling photos framed in white borders. Francesca Diorio ’16 was the photographer, and judging from the smile on her face, she was happy to see people enjoying her hard work. At the next table, Marissa Lazar ’14 was in full vendor mode as she sold two

of her hand crafted bracelets, giving the buyer a deal for purchasing two.

Marissa is the creator of what she calls ML Designs, where you can find earrings, bracelets and necklaces. The jewelry looked professional, and the name of her company sounded so elite that I had to ask her what this fair was all about. “Everything you see here is made by the students,” she replied, full of passion and pride.

The third table offered something else entirely: clothes and hats, designed by Gustavo Aragon ’15. The brand name called NLIGHTN. He handed me the logo of his brand in sticker form, a sticker I had seen across campus. I had always wondered what the light bulb with an exclamation point in the middle and two lightning bolts bursting from each side stood for—now I knew. A fellow peer’s creative genius. Gustavo, a film major who designs these clothes on the side, works with silk screening. He designs the art that appears on the shirts and creates the clothes, flying completely solo.

“NLIGHTN is apparel that celebrates the power of creativity. We are rooted in all creative lifestyles and forms of art,” he said. If I wasn’t impressed before reaching this third table, I definitely was now. It was difficult for me to leave Gustavo’s table because I wanted to shop. But more jewelry caught my eye as I moved to the fourth table.

This jewelry, however, was like none I’d ever seen. It was crochet jewelry by Aviva Paiste ’14, and it was

lovely. My favorite creations of Aviva’s were her crocheted rings in the shape of flowers, in all different colors. I fawned over these for awhile until a fresh, delicious smell reminding me of flower-filled meadows captured my senses and I was lured to the final table where I spoke with Yilih Cai, Xinyi Du ’17 and Kangno Zhang ’17. The tantalizing aroma was from handmade soap. One could choose

between a green or white soap in the shape of a daisy or a rose. The smell was too good to pass up, so I bought one of each kind. My purchase came with a complimentary book mark, also handmade, with a beautiful water color design.

“The soaps are made with base and oil and you can even add sand. We make it in the lab. It’s actually pretty simple,” Cai said.

If all the wonderful art work by fellow Brandeisians, so talented and driven, wasn’t enough to captivate your senses, the very last table held hand-sized chocolate chip cookies and a dispenser of lemonade. If you weren’t at the SCC last Friday afternoon, you weren’t in the right place.

But don’t worry, we haven’t seen the last of these fabulous designers—at least I hope not.

photo by katie chin/the hoot

students create The SCC was full of students selling their art and products on Friday.

Ice Cube lowers standards for ‘Ride Along’

By Dana Trismen Editor

ice cube cop Ice Cube and Kevin Hart star in “Ride Along.”

yikes Mr. Cube and Mr. Hart watch in awe as Mr. Cube’s car explodes.

Ice Cube is timeless. Not in the way that his music has endured decades, though that may be true given his honest and angry portrayal of growing up African American in America in many of his rap songs. But truly, Ice Cube is timeless in the way that he does not seem to age. While the rapper/actor is now 44, in his most recent film, “Ride Along,” he appears to be about 25. He is all rough-and-tough policeman who hangs out with the

photo from internet source

boys, not someone’s middle-aged dad.

The sad thing is, Ice Cube’s remarkably un-aged body is the best part of the movie “Ride Along.” The film was released on Jan. 17, and stars both Ice Cube and Kevin Hart. A sort of copbuddy film, Ice Cube insists on taking Hart along for a day in the life of a policeman. Hart, who also wants to be a cop, is looking to marry Ice Cube’s sister. Due to Hart’s small stature and apparent lack of manliness, Ice Cube refuses to give this engagement his blessing until Hart proves his worth.

The usual antics ensue: some hilarity when Hart tries to confront a motorcycle gang, lots of waving guns and comic violence. Ice Cube constantly crosses his arms and sneers, until Hart finally gets him out of a sticky situation.

While the film is at times funny, it is mostly just predictable. It received negative reviews from critics, including a 17 percent Rotten Tomatoes rating. Yet, the studio has already stated they are pursuing a sequel—mainly because despite all odds the film is popular, topping the box office with a gross of $21.2 million.

Ice Cube also produced the film, as he continues his rather strange foray into appropriate movie-making.

While “Ride Along” is rated PG-13, it is not very risqué. The website Parent Previews gives the film a D- for language (many, many swears) and a D+ for violence, but only a C+ for sexual content and a B+ for drug use. And that’s from a website created by parents.

The film is made to be funny, not

moving or monumental or significant. The film and its comedic stance seem to follow Ice Cube’s other main film, “Are We There Yet?” Ice Cube began his career in the hip-hop group C.I.A., later joining the influential N.W.A. which featured the prominent Dr. Dre. While Ice Cube may look timeless, obviously his career has not been as he has been forced to change professions and focuses. And while he may have a reputation for being a funny man, his music was something worth being proud of, while “Ride Along” is not something worth paying money to see.

Kevin Hart is perhaps the better actor throughout “Ride Along,” though it is arguable that he has the better role to play. He is feisty and outspoken, and he delivers his jokes at the exact right time. Hart is known for being a standup comedian, and his career might benefit greatly if he would to star in more funny movies (though with a better plot line than this one).

While some cop-buddy films such as “The Heat” have witty and wellthought out plot-lines at their core, films like “Ride Along” rely on comic violence, stupid jokes and the hilarity of Hart’s five-foot-two frame to entertain audiences. But they remain popular because after all, the movies are a place to escape. After a long week of work, Americans are not opposed to propping themselves up in front of a mindless comedy. But be sure you watch “Ride Along” at home—it is not worth the price of a $11.25 movie ticket.

January 31, 2014

The Brandeis Hoot

ARTS, ETC. 9

Young the Giant delivers new sound

By Rachel Dobkin Staff

Young the Giant, an indie rock band from Irvine, California, gained popularity in 2011 when its first selftitled album hit stores and songs including “Cough Syrup” and “My Body” topped the charts. This album maintained a soft and infectious indie-pop style that wasn’t too crazy or too tame—it felt just right, like a favorite pair of jeans. Rather than trying to perfect and transform that sound into something even better and more nuanced, Young the Giant decided to radically change their sound in their new album “Mind Over Matter,” which was released Jan. 21.

If Young the Giant’s first album was Taylor Swift, “Mind Over Matter” would be Metallica—the distinction between the sounds of the two albums is that jarring. While some songs contain traces of the sweet rhythmic melodies that are reminiscent of the first album, they fit much more into the genre of rock and are

not as pleasing to the ear. One group that seems far removed such song, one of the best on from the alternative genre. the album in fact, is called The music, however, feels “Anagram,” and is a prime exforced and artificial instead ample of how Young the Giof the straightforward, honant’s trademark delicate guiest and raw musical talent that tar can juxtapose with a more governed the last album. This powerful hardcore sound to album cries desperation—like create something electrifythe band needed a makeover ing. Sadly, the same cannot be in order to escape becoming said about the majority of the too mainstream or safe. While songs on this album. there are a few foreseeable hits Perhaps the song on this on “Mind Over Matter,” this album that stays truest to album ultimately feels like a Young the Giant’s journey as makeover that is too foreign of a band is “Slow Drive,” which a sound to be enjoyed by most is a 48-second instrumental fans. piece. This song highlights Though this album can be the transformation of a quiet viewed as a letdown in several photo from internet source and pensive piece that cre- mind over matter regards, there are some posiscendos into a powerful and loud baltive elements. While there are a numlad, which essentially represents their music on this album is dominated by ber of songs filled with blaring guitar, rapid rise to fame as well as the dras- synth, some strings and several elec- a sound that gets old after a while, the tronic flourishes, which do not cap- band has indeed developed some of tic alteration of their style.

The featured song on “Mind Over ture the essence of Young the Giant. the beachy vibes that were evident on Matter” that has been their vehicle But perhaps that is the point: Young the first album in songs like “Crystalof advertisement, “It’s About Time,” the Giant has undergone a musical lized,” “Waves” and the bridge of “It’s does not even sound like Young the metamorphosis from a familiar indie- About Time”—a feature of the album Giant, but eerily similar to Muse. The pop band to a different-sounding that will surely win back some listen-

Artist displays her ‘Blood Memory’

By Vinh Nguyen

Staff, Special to the Hoot

The presence of collective memory finds a tangible place in artist Lisa Rosowsky’s latest collection. Currently featured in the Kniznick Gallery of the Women’s Studies Research Center, Rosowsky’s exhibit, “Blood Memory,” offers a narrative on her experiences as a “second generation” member of the Holocaust. Exploring memorial and lost family, “Blood Memory” not only highlights her family’s story, but also presents the artist’s way of reconciling the often painful memories that haunt Holocaust survivors.

Rosowsky and the members of her era are those born from the second generation after the Holocaust—they are the children of Holocaust survivors.

“I did not directly suffer or even witness the horrors of the Holocaust,” Rosowsky said, “but they live on in me nonetheless.” In the introductory wall description of the exhibit, Rosowsky continued to write, “They live on in a lifetime of terrifying dreams; in the nameless fears of my childhood; in the way I always scope out a new room when I enter, looking for good hiding places. This is blood memory: the knowledge that cannot possibly be handed down, but is.”

“Blood Memory” brings together a variety of media and disciplines to share a story of family and survival.

One particular element that Rosowsky used through the exhibit was textiles. Transforming simple fabric, Rosowsky used the fragility of cloth to set her piece “The Raitzyns.” Using silk-screen to print the pictures of the Raitzyn family members, Rosowsky constructs a quilt out of these printed panels. One of the central squares lists the names of each Raitzyn shown, and integrated into the panels are gloves that once belonged to the Raitzyns. Undoubtedly, in designing the piece to be quiltlike, “The Raitzyns” evokes powerful connotation to family linkage and ties that continues to bridge Rosowsky to the historical past.

Another powerful piece was “Left.”

With a title playing on the ideal of what and who remains, “Left” is a photo-collage of the artist’s left hand. Inspired by a “lifelong series of dreams about my left arm and hand,”

Rosowsky uses stripes of words to heighten the narrative tone of “Left.”

One of the most striking artworks in the gallery is Rosowsky’s “Angel of Auschwitz.” Suspended from the ceiling, the angel’s looming presence draws an observer’s eye to the piece.

Draped in a long and delicate white dress that extends to the ground, the “Angel of Auschwitz” presents a hauntingly beautiful and eerie memento to a dark past.

Rosowsky, a graduate of the MFA Graphic Design Program at Yale University, currently teaches at Massachusetts College of Art and Design. The artist is scheduled to deliver a talk on Monday, Feb. 10 in the Kniznick Gallery. The exhibit will run until Mar. 7.

Rosowsky’s keen eye on graphics and ability to harmoniously marry multiple media of art greatly attest to not only her skill as an artist, but also to the qualities that make “Blood Memory” a uniquely personal and memorable exhibit. Rosowsky’s gift of tapping into the visceral feelings of sadness, loss and grief makes “Blood Memory” an exhibit worth visiting.

photos by matt brondoli/the hoot remembering through art Lisa Rosowsky shares her family story at the Kniznick Gallery at the Women’s Studies Research Center.

Lisa Rosowsky will speak in the Kniznick Gallery at the Women’s Studies Research Center, Monday, February 10 at 12:30 pm.

ers.

Finally, this album served as a tremendous source of growth and maturity on Young the Giant’s part, though it might not have been the maturity fans expected to hear. Frontman Sameer Gadhia, who enchants listeners with his versatile and evocative voice, told Rolling Stone Magazine that a main influence of the album was actually the famous novel “Anna Karenina,” which he read during the production of the album. He noted that “Mind Over Matter” has benefited from a literary influence, and he attempted to tell stories through his songs almost from a camera’s perspective. He also acknowledges that this album possesses an aggressive dimension to it, which stemmed from the band’s collective realization that “we could do what we wanted to do and be honest about it.”

While this new sound from Young the Giant was not expected by fans, it will surely serve as a springboard for their development as a band in the long run.

EDITORIALS

10 The Brandeis Hoot

“To acquire wisdom, one must observe.”

I

Finance board inconsistent in funding allotments and regulations

n the wake of frenzied marathon meetings and miscommunications, Editors-in-Chief Brandeis University’s Finance Board Emily Stott Dana Trismen has proved themselves inconsistent.

Marathon meetings are an expected Andrew Elmers Opinion Editor ritual at the start of every semester, Dani Chasin Sports Editor as clubs present their budgets for the Theresa Gaffney Arts, Etc. Editor Mia Edelstein Copy Editor semester and try to convince F-Board Julie Landy Copy Editor to accept their proposals in full. But inJesse Zeng Photography Editor stead of calm and informative meetings, Jun Zhao Graphics Editor Katie Chin Online Editor they turn into high stress situations for most clubs who cannot be sure how Michelle Kim Deputy Arts Editor Jess Linde Deputy News Editor much funding they will receive, and if Emily Belowich Deputy News Editor they will even be able to continue their Nate Rosenbloom Senior Editor club’s mission.

F-Board is particularly inconsistent in Volume 11 • Issue 3 their treatment of fundraising accounts. the brandeis hoot • brandeis university 415 south street • waltham, ma In the presentation for club treasurFounded By Leslie Pazan, Igor Pedan and Daniel Silverman ers, they stated that club fundraising accounts “must adhere to University policies, but not F-Board scope.” An staff appropriate rule, as clubs raise funds, and members should be able to use Shota Adamia, Zachary Bellis, Dor Cohen, Rachel Dobkin, Debra Edelman, Mia Edelstein, Roy Fan, Iona them as they wish to advance their club’s Feldman, Ben Fine, Evan Goldstein, Jaye Han, Maya mission. But F-Board is changing their Himelfarb, Eli Kaminsky, Joe Lanoie, Jess Linde, Vinh own rules. In The Hoot’s meeting with Nguyen, Alexandra Patch, Charlie Romanow, Sasha F-Board this semester, they decided Ruiz, Emily Scharf, Eliana Sinoff, Naomi Soman, Diane that The Hoot should use its fundraisSomlo, Sindhura Sonnathi, Jennifer Spencer, Alison ing account to pay for the printing of Thvedt, Shreyas Warrier, Linjie Xu

Mission As the weekly community student newspaper of Brandeis University, The Brandeis Hoot aims to provide our readers with a reliable, accurate and unbiased source of news and information.

Produced entirely by students, The Hoot serves a readership of 6,000 with in-depth news, relevant commentary, sports and coverage of cultural events. Recognizing that better journalism leads to better policy, The Brandeis Hoot is dedicated to the principles of investigative reporting and news analysis. Our mission is to give every community member a voice.

SUBMISSION POLICIES The Brandeis Hoot welcomes letters to the editor on subjects that are of interest to the community. Preference is given to current or former community members and The Hoot reserves the right to edit or reject submissions. The deadline for submitting letters is Wednesday at noon. Please submit letters to letters@ thebrandeishoot.com along with your contact information. Letters should not exceed 500 words. The opinions, columns, cartoons and advertisements printed in The Hoot do not necessarily represent the opinions of the editorial board.

connect phone • (781) 330-0051 e-mail • editor@thebrandeishoot.com online • thebrandeishoot.com twitter • twitter.com/thebrandeishoot facebook • facebook.com/thebrandeishoot

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We welcome unsolicited submissions from members of the community sent by e-mail to eic@thebrandeishoot.com. Please limit submissions to 800 words. All submissions are subjected to editing.

January 31, 2014

the paper. Since, according to their own rule, F board cannot “require” us to use our fundraising account to do so, they informed us that they plan to decrease our funding, so that we are forced to pay for printing from our fundraising account.

This is a backhanded way of requiring us to use our funds for a particular purpose, which they explicitly state is “not under F-Board scope.”

They claim that they do the same for all clubs, but shouldn’t all student groups have the option to use their funds as they would like? Students feel pride for their clubs and for the money they have raised, and the money transfers still have to be ultimately approved by the budget analyst.

The Hoot is not the only club that has a fundraising account. The Justice does as well, and likewise receive money from advertisements just as The Hoot does.

F-Board asserted that the Justice will remain able to use their fundraising as they would like. Why should The Hoot, or any other club, be any different?

The funding decisions are rarely popular among clubs, as even clubs who have

been on campus for decades are refused even the smallest of requests. We recommend that F-Board be honest with club members during marathon, and hold a face to face discussion about whether they will approve the request or not. It is unfair for club members to be left in the lurch for over a week before they hear if their request was approved, only to have to appeal the decision and attend yet another meeting. It would be practical to simplify the process and give everyone the chance to talk about their proposals in a real discussion with F-board, hearing feedback and having the opportunity to respond before clubs are left to find a decision simply posted online.

Funding a student publication is in the interest of freedom of speech. If the Student Union refuses to give any student publication enough money to print their product, they are hindering students’ right to freedom of speech and the press.

Students deserve to know what goes on at Brandeis—from arts events to administrative follies. F-Board should not be allowed to silence the voices of the student body.

sports

January 31, 2014

The Brandeis Hoot 11

Close weekend games; women defeat #7 Emory

By Charlie Romanow Staff

The women and men’s basketball teams each had a pair of games on this “Hoopcoming” and Alumni Family Weekend. Both squads played the University of Rochester on Friday and Emory University on Sunday.

The women’s basketball team won both games this weekend. They ended with a hard fought battle against seventh ranked Emory University at home on Sunday. The final score was 65-61. This followed their Friday game against the University of Rochester which they won 58-57.

Brandeis got off to a good start against the Eagles, leading 11-5 after five minutes. Their largest lead of the game was by seven with 10:20 remaining in the first. They maintained the lead until late in the first half but went into halftime down 34-27. The Judges were down by seven later in the game with 13:24 remaining in the second half but sophomore guard Samantha Mancinelli ‘16 brought the team back to within two on a layup and three free throws. From here the Eagles bounced back to lead 5848 with 8:24 left, their largest lead of the afternoon. The comeback began gradually from here as freshman guard Paris Hodges ‘17 and senior

forward Nicolina Vitale ‘14 each scored two points.

Emory went five crucial minutes without a point, missing 13 of their last 14 shots, allowing senior guard Kasey Dean ‘14 to score six consecutive points to be down by only 2.

Hodges tied the game up and Dean made a shot-clock beating jumper to take the final lead. Mancinelli scored the dagger shot with ten seconds left to move the one point lead to four.

The Judges had gone on a 17-3 run in the final eight minutes and beat the nationally ranked team.

Brandeis had a well-rounded group of performers, numerous of whom shined in the second half. They were led by team captain Dean, who had 19 points on 8-14 shooting and pulled in eight rebounds. She was 5-7 shooting in the second half. Freshman forward Maria Jackson ‘17 had 14 points and eight rebounds. Mancinelli and Vitale reached double digit scoring as well. Vitale and senior guard Janelle Rodriguez ‘14 each had six rebounds.

Hodges aided the team with a game high ten rebounds, seven in the second half alone and six assists. Emory’s Selena Castillo led the game with 20 points, including making three of five from three. Savannah Morgan led the game with 37 minutes played and had 14 points, six rebounds, six assists

and a game high four steals. Hannah Lilly had 11 points and seven boards.

Dean and Hodges’ weekend performances were recognized by the University Athletic Association as two of the conferences outstanding performances of the week.

The Judges outrebounded Emory 48-38 and outshot opponents in the paint 32 to 12. They also made four more shots through eight fewer attempts, outshooting the Eagles 44.1% to 32.8%. Their shooting percentage rose to 51.9% in the second half.

Brandeis had trouble connecting from beyond the arc, shooting only 18.2% on 11 attempts while Emory was 8-25 at 32%. The Judges had trouble holding onto the ball as well, allowing 16 turnovers to the Eagles 10.

As a result, Emory led in points off of turnovers by 21-10.

Emory’s loss followed their 77-71 defeat to New York University which was their first of the season. They have moved down to the 16th ranked team in the nation. NYU is ranked 20th and Washington University in St. Louis are second. The Eagles are 14-2 overall and 3-2 in the UAA. Brandeis is 8-8 overall and 2-3 in-conference.

The Judges are fifth in the conference, one game ahead of next weekend’s opponents and the University of Rochester. Next weekend’s games will

photo courtesy sportspix

Men’s Basketball Team Roster

2013-14 Brandeis Men’s Basketball Roster

photo courtesy sportspix

be on the road at Case Western Reserve University on Friday and Carnegie Mellon University on Sunday.

The men’s basketball team won their first conference game of the year during the inaugural Hoopcoming event on Friday night. They lost a high scoring match on Sunday 94-88 to Emory University.

The team defeated the University of Rochester 83-66 on Friday. The visitors had a quick 7-2 lead before Brandeis went on an 11-2 run to take the lead. The first half was hard fought with numerous ties and lead changes until Brandeis went on an 8-0 run on a layup/three pointer combination by senior guard Ben Bartoldus ‘14 followed by a complementary three by senior guard Gabriel Moton ‘14. The team would go into halftime up by four and hold onto the lead for the remainder of the game. Rochester was not able to sprint out in the second half, making only one field-goal in the periods first five minutes. They were outscored 47-34 in the second due to Brandeis’ 64% field goal and 75% three point percentages in the period. The Yellow Jackets continued to be within a couple possessions of

Women’s Basketball Team Roster

the lead but the Judges stepped into multiple double-digit leads on threepointers by senior guard Derek Retos ‘14. They were able to maintain the lead late in the second half, making nine of ten free throws during a twominute span to increase their lead from 12 to a game-high 19 with 2:02 remaining.

Moton led the game with 21 points on 7-11 from the field and a 5-5 from the line. Bartoldus added 17 points, as Retos and freshman guard Robinson Vilmont ‘17 rounded out the teams double-digit scorers. Retos was 3-5 from beyond the arc with all three successes coming in the second half.

Senior center Youri Dascy ‘14 led the game with seven rebounds in his 12 minutes of play. Vilmont and sophomore guard Colby Smith ‘16 led all with four assists apiece.

Rochester was led by Tyler Sankes who had 16 points on 5-7 shooting and 6-6 on free throws. Mack Montague added 11 points and five rebounds. Dylan Peretz had five rebounds as well. Moton and Retos’ weekend performances were recognized by the UAA. Moton scored 32 points against Emory. Retos became the third player in school history to score 200 three-pointers in his career.

The Judges were able to outrebound their opponents despite Rochester having three players that were taller than all of Brandeis’ athletes.

Brandeis outshot their opponents, making 50.9% against 44% for the Yellow Jackets. The team was even more impressive from beyond the arc, making 45% of three’s versus 31.8% for the visitors. The Judges also led in assists 18-11 and turnovers forced 12-8. They were able to capitalize on these turnovers, scoring 16 points off turnovers. Because of the team’s strong lead, the Judges were able to give playing time to 16 players. The 800 in attendance marks the team’s largest crowd of the year.

The Yellow Jackets are 7-9 overall and 1-4 in the UAA after a Sunday loss to NYU. The Judges are 9-7 overall and 1-4 in the conference. The teams are tied for last in the conference. Brandeis faces Case Western and Carnegie Mellon next weekend.

opinion

12 The Brandeis Hoot

January 31, 2014

Toughing it out through wintry conditions

By Andrew Elmers Editor

Hearing and watching coverage about the devastation in Atlanta and other areas of the South from this past week creates a certain pride for those residing in the Northeast. No, General Sherman has not risen from his grave to march again through Georgia toward the sea, leaving a path of destruction and fire behind him.

Instead, snow and ice have been the culprit for thousands of abandoned cars throughout Alabama and Georgia and a cloud of dread hanging over the deep South. While it is important to realize that these areas do not typically receive this sort of wintry weather and were ill-prepared to clear snow and ice from the roads, it is hard not to see what it says about us. It offers a time to recognize just exactly how much we, as part of the Brandeis community, overcome each time the weather turns sour.

Last week, the first occurrence of inclement weather which altered schedules took place for this academic year.

Classes resumed by 11 a.m., and everything was back to normal. Admittedly, I was upset that the delay was not pushed back later, since my first class was at 11; it goes to show how much is expected of everyone here to tough it out. Someone on my Facebook newsfeed who attends Clemson in South Carolina has had class canceled for two days in a row due to this snow storm, just because there is still snow on the grass. Yes, there have been times here at Brandeis that the entire day is canceled due to over a foot of snow falling, but that does not happen as often as I would hope. And

graphic by jun zhao/the hoot

with the way New England weather is, there always seems to be another storm in the forecast, just aiming to slow us down.

Nothing will slow us down, so don’t bother Winter Storm Leon, or whatever name holed-up meteorologists

give to snow storms these days.

There have been a few times when non-essential staff are excused early for the evening due to an upcoming storm. I don’t exactly know who constitutes as “non-essential,” since they are most likely the administra-

tive staff that get paid a respectable wage. The essentials are the professors who still have classes to teach and the food-service staff, since there might be a revolt if the dining halls were to close due to snow.

I am always amazed that the facili-

ties staff arrives right on time to clean the dorms whenever there is a storm, displaying the overall resilience of not just the Brandeis community, but the entirety of Massachusetts, having See SALT, page 14

Can LTS provide an alternative to Macs?

By Joe Lanoie Staff

When my computer broke, I was told to use any one of the public computers available. There was one problem: All of them were Macs, and I own a PC. I never intended to transfer to a Mac, so I did not. But why did it seem like I had to? Brandeis technology operates under a false assumption: Students only use Macs. Even though they believe this assumption, Brandeis Macs allegedly run both OS X and Windows to reflect the technological diversity of the campus. But they don’t work.

If one walked into the library, one would not know that a single Brandeis student owns a PC. Brandeis needs to understand the dual-system Macs do not work well when run as PCs, and that PCs are used by many students on campus. The university needs to change their system to signify the technological needs of a good portion of the student body.

According to Brandeis tour guide statistics, the spit between PC and Macs on campus was at 50/50 a few years ago. On the Brandeis LTS website’s New Student Checklist, the page clearly states, “You can buy either a Mac or a PC—if you prefer PC, we like Dell or Toshiba.” Brandeis seems to accept and allow PCs on campus.

Many professors have PCs in their offices, lecture halls and classrooms.

Students can use LTS to repair their broken computers, as I have done.

Yet one would not know this if they walked in the library. Most computers available for student use are the dualsystem Macs I mentioned earlier. It seems useful in theory; two systems on one computer becomes more ef-

ficient. In practice, however, the dual systems fail. Many programs when used on the Mac’s version of Windows 7 forces the computer to operate in OS X. For example, the popular file saving and sharing service Dropbox

does not work solely on Windows 7.

When one has the program open and downloads a document, in order to work on it or submit it for review, the computer kicks one back to OS X. The same problems happens with

Adobe Reader, which constructs, converts documents to, and reads PDF files. So Macs cannot function on Windows if the user needs to peruse PDFs or Dropbox, which causes a constant game of switching between

the two systems to get one’s work done. It takes three times as long playing this game to write an essay as it would to simply type it up on a See COMPUTERS, page 14

graphic by jun zhao/the hoot

January 31, 2014

OPINION 13

The Brandeis Hoot

Shopping period choices create stress

By Tzlil Levy

Special to the Hoot

Back in November when I first chose classes I had a solid idea of how I wanted to arrange my schedule. As an incoming mid-year student, I was told to explore areas that I’m interested in. But but like most people, my interests changed when I arrived on campus. The first time I attended my 10 a.m. class, I had a feeling that I’d have difficulties transitioning between classes. My first class was in Shiffman, I then had to go down the Rabb steps all the way to Schwartz, and return to the Mandel Quad later.

The walk was definitely a hike every morning, and the 10-minute transition certainly required me to make my way past through all of the other enthusiastic students going to class.

In class, the professor made clear the books he wanted and went over the syllabus to introduce the course. In the last 20 minutes of class, he showed a film, which we were all held accountable for. He said that we should observe and take notes regarding the violence in the film because we would be working in groups to address questions and concerns. Not fond of the class, I decided to shop a different class during this time—a class that was closer to the Mandel Quad, and perhaps less violent with respect to the film.

For the second day of classes I shopped a class in Olin-Sang. The class was smaller, the professor was more accessible and the material was

more interesting to me. I decided to change classes that day. When I made the changes on Sage, I did not have accessibility to the class’ material yet on LATTE. The professor had already

assigned readings and another one that day. Immediately, I ordered the textbook on Amazon, but I had to wait for the textbook to arrive. The lines at the bookstore were ridicu-

lously long, and the books took a day to process when ordering online. This is certainly absurd. I understand that professors want to get started with the material, but expecting that all

students should arrive prepared is a struggle.

See CLASSES, page 15

photo from internet source

Boston offers more than Brandeis ever could

photo from internet source

By Nabi Menai

Special to the Hoot

When applying to colleges, everyone has unique criteria on which they base their choices. Whether it is the strength of a particular department, having a formidable sports team or the climate, there are countless factors to take into consideration. As for myself, I extensively researched several universities and liberal arts colleges based on a myriad of reasons, most of which pertained to academics, but subsequently narrowed my list down

to just 10 schools based on something which may seem wildly irrelevant.

That “something” was the proximity to a city, a city teeming with diversity, heritage and culture. And in the end I chose Boston.

Despite not having ever visited Boston before, I was confident that I would enjoy it. It seemed as though it had everything. From prestigious, world-renowned institutions such as MIT and Harvard, to an array of diverse restaurants and colossal museums, it seemed to encapsulate all that one could ask for in a city. After having taken many a trip to Boston

with friends over the past few months while at Brandeis, I realize I could not ask for more in a city. It leaves me stunned every time I return from it.

I remember how as I got off the Brandeis shuttle and stepped out into Harvard Square, for the first time, I took a minute to soak in my surroundings. I stood in awe of what is arguably the pinnacle of western education. Gazing at the same institution that the likes of Emerson, Thoreau and T.S. Eliot thrived in sent a shudder down my spine. I felt inclined to enter but only peered through the gates trying to decipher the archaic

Latin text atop each pillar or column.

Now, every time I get off at Harvard Square I step back to absorb the grandeur that surrounds me in the same way, only to find it quickly dissipates as I fathom the juxtaposition between such eminence and nonchalance that pervades the ambiance of the square.

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of Boston, though, is the seemingly effortless way it retains its heritage whilst simultaneously adding touches of modernity that leaves every tourist and visitor fully satisfied. Whether you are en route to the North End and happen to stumble upon Paul

Revere’s house on the way or are taking a stroll through the happening center of Newbury Street, one trip to Boston can quench anyone’s thirst for knowledge, shopping or relaxation.

Museums, such as the Museum of Science, make it easy to spend an entire day springing from exhibit to exhibit, whereas districts like Little Italy, offer a plethora of exquisite Italian cuisine and sumptuous desserts that can easily leave you roaming there for a whole evening. Ever since my first visit I took there, going to Boston has now become synonymous with getting tiramisu from the North End. Strip away the infinite opportunities for learning and spending money, and one would presume the city to be bare. What separates cities like Boston from others, however, is that you need not pinpoint a specific destination in order to enjoy yourself.

Whether you linger in the Boston Common under momentous weeping willows amidst the verdant landscape, or amble through the sinuous alleys to the cadence of the several street performers playing their guitars or pianos, one walk through the city can elicit any such jubilation found elsewhere. A day spent at the aquarium can quite easily end with a late-night stroll near the pier where rows of trees are lit up with bright, blue lights, vaguely reminiscent of a night in Paris. Oftentimes, you will find yourself wandering through the streets that echo with the resonant calls of such a formative history, only to find that hours have flown by. These qualities are not requisite features of a city by any means; they are discrete nuances that culminate in creating an atmosphere brimming with vibrancy.

Brandeis’ proximity to Boston is a wonderful asset and shouldn’t be taken for granted. Every once in a while when you find that your schedule is miraculously clear from all the work and general inconveniences of college life, take it upon yourself to venture out and experience this city. You won’t regret it.

14 OPINION

The Brandeis Hoot

January 31, 2014

Rock salt: black ice’s kryptonite

SALT, from page 12

roads cleared and mass transit up and running for those who need to get to work.

We not only have the state transit workers to thank for allowing us to get through an icy day, but also the

salt. Yes, rock salt, the very thing that is worth its weight in gold in Georgia right now. That is really what inspires me daily to finish all 75 pages of readings I have each night for class.

Whenever I wish I could simply quit school, hike the Andes and live off the fat of the land, I am reminded of the

rock salt. The rock salt never quits; it is constantly fighting the good fight against the perils of black ice and falling while walking to class, saving you from years of torment and embarrassment.

Last week, the most unbelievable sight I had ever witnessed revealed it-

inspiring scene in the alley between the Castle and Schwartz Hall, but my phone had died due to the frigid temperatures. Yet I do not need photographic evidence to prove which hero was responsible for this miraculous feat of strength. I believe I can speak for everyone in saying that we all knew that there was a nice pile of rock salt in that puddle doing the one job that no one else can.

I am led to believe that Massachusetts has magic salt, because nothing of this earth can possibly keep water from freezing in single-digit wind chills. I wish to take a bag, no, multiple bags, home with me to New Jersey for the upcoming break to rid my driveway of ice. This might be the greatest discovery I have while here at Brandeis—a completely revolutionary rock salt.

While no one is eager to wake up on a snowy day to not see an email about classes being canceled and having to brave the cold and wind walking up the Rabb steps, it shows something about the resolve of the community that, no matter the conditions, we are always ready to go. Whether that is just to get to class or head out to feed the homeless of Waltham, Brandeis students, and really the general population of the Boston metropolitan area, are resilient.

Nothing illustrates this more than the response to the Marathon Bombings last year. A day set aside for celebration and community, only to be photo from internet source thunderstruck by an act of complete self to me one morning in the freezing cowardice, presents the ultimate trial walk to class. There was liquid water for a city. Boston came back as resoon the ground, and it was less than lute and stable as before, and that sen15 degrees Fahrenheit outside. I was timent also spreads out to Brandeis. stunned. I thought for sure that this So whether there is some snow and was impossible and knew that it was ice or an act of terror, not much can something I wouldn’t see every day. I slow us down, and any Brandeis stuwanted to take a picture of this awe- dent should be proud of that.

PC users still exist and need to be recognized

photo from internet source

COMPUTERS, from page 12

public PC. I said “most” and not all deliberately, since there are PCs on campus, but rarely for student use. Of all the PC’s available on campus, a supermajority are for professors and staff in classrooms or in places where students cannot access them. The Romper Room and the Student Library in

the Shapiro Campus Center are all Macs, and so are the other computers in the Library. The most visible two PCs on campus for student use are in the library, and are mainly available for microfilm readings. Yet they run Windows 7, and most of the time I and other PC minded students are in the library, we congregate there as our technological safe haven. And when we do, we are kicked off.

In a computerized world, users

of PCs have every power to operate computers to complete essays, projects and exams. Brandeis’ “Mac-Only” policy hurts the PC users on campus.

The solution of dual-system computers seems to work in theory, but in practice, they isolate half the campus just as much as the Mac-only computer rooms in the SCC do. The Brandeis community works under the assumption that PCs are only used by gamers and members of the older

generations, and Macs are the go-to computer for the college student. This assumption errs greatly; PCs are used by numerous members of the student body.

We as students are expected to be knowledgeable with modern technology, as we grew up in the generation where computers and the internet were part of our upbringing. We are assumed to be the only generation to keep moving forward. But we aren’t,

nor should we be. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “For everything that is given, something is taken. Society acquires new arts, and loses old instincts.” In this case, LTS ensures progress by moving to a Mac-based system or even a dual-system with both operating systems but loses the power of the original computer: the PC. We lose the basis for all computers, in the name of meaningless progress.

January 31, 2014

OPINION 15

The Brandeis Hoot

Can class be taught with books still in mail?

photo from internet source

CLASSES, from page 13

Obtaining the books is possible, but unless FedEx can move faster and the bookstore can endure better during the hectic two-week shopping period, then professors shouldn’t expect the students to have the books during the shopping period.

Those classes aside, in my other introductory class, the professor assigned readings from the textbooks,

went in depth on the course material, and assigned a problem set due before the end of the two-week shopping period. The material in the class builds on the previous material, so catching up is critical. Deciding to enroll in the middle of the shopping period requires playing catch up, while also waiting for books to arrive, and falling behind on any new learned material. It’s a sacrifice you have to decide to make. Obviously, if you would pre-

fer a different class and think it might be a better fit for you, the shopping period can be a useful tool. However, if you are shopping classes because you think it’s fun to explore, don’t even bother to think about it. You will just fall behind on the material and feel lost in class, completely underutilizing the shopping period.

Professors need to be more considerate in the first two weeks with the readings, assignments and workload.

Students are still adjusting, searching for their niche in the semester, and trying out new things. Perhaps students can prepare for the shopping period by reflecting on the drawbacks, but also considering the advantages when shopping a class. Regardless of their final choice, students should feel confident in their final schedule and not be worried that they might have missed something vital while shopping other classes.

As for me, I am glad I switched classes the second day of the semester.

I still had time to catch up with the material, get my textbook after a week of waiting and submit two homework assignments. No matter how students handle the shopping period, we take on too much of the stress that comes with juggling different schedules, book orders and finding our way around. As for the professors, please have mercy.

Bananas; true source of original sin

By Theresa Gaffney Editor

When I heard that I could write an article about bananas, I was surprised, to say the least. But I knew that I must accept this challenge; I knew that the truth had to be known.

You may not know it, but it was actually a banana that Adam and Eve ate from the Garden of Eden that created original sin. Bananas are the root of all evil in the world. The trick is that nobody knows it, but I am here to expose that secret.

First off, yellow. What sort of color is that for a fruit? There is not a single other fruit that you would be pleased to see had turned yellow. Okay, so maybe there are a couple, but for the most part, yellowing food insinuates rotting food. Even worse is when they start to turn brown. Before you even unpeel it, the banana is telling you that it is not going to taste good.

Past the outer layer, the inside of a banana peel is just plain daunting. If you can even get over the struggle of getting the thing open, which can be much more difficult than perceived, there are then endless barriers to contend with. Most unbearable are those little stringy bits that didn’t want to peel off with the first layer. Bite into a banana with those still there, and it’s like eating a little bit of yarn with your snack. Any bruised spot is extra mushy and must be cut off.

All of these annoyances can be solved, you may say. True. However, then you reach the actual fruit.

Straight up, peeled, sliced, clean, banana. It is there that my deepest issue with bananas lies: within the taste and

the texture. After one bite, it’s as if I have cotton mouth, and there is no saliva left in my mouth to regulate that awful aftertaste. It’s like there is burnt plastic super-glued to my tongue.

It’s evident that I am not the only

heard a poor youth cry one day at dinner. “It’s like they have to have it out here all the time ’cause nobody eats it.”

Even if you like the taste of bananas (how is Bedlam these days?), the social implications are color blind and status blind. It doesn’t matter who you are—whether in movies or cartoons or real life, bananas are the devil’s advocate for bullies and the humiliation of all. How many times has some naive soul been made fun of for the phallic appearance of eating a banana? Many colleges and universities now have twitter pages, such as “Tufts Bananas” with the sole purpose of exposing students “deepthroating,” I mean eating, bananas. Or worse, how many perfect getaways have been ruined, how many perfectly designed plans have been foiled, because someone slipped on a banana peel?

Bananas just aren’t worth our time.

Sure, if you’re an athlete, they can potentially relieve any cramps you may have. Technically, they add some color to your plate and nutrition to your diet. But as a society, we can do better. If you are in dire need of potassium and think you have nowhere else to turn, don’t look to bananas. There are other foods out there that can help Graphic by Janet Jun Zhao/Brandeis Hoot you. Some viable resources include one who knows the extent of the ba- white beans, dark leafy greens, baked nana problem here at Brandeis. In potatoes, dried apricots, avocados and Sherman Dining Hall, if you listen, more. Let’s rid ourselves of the hauntyou can hear others complaining ing yellow trickster. Don’t turn to baabout the same phenomena. “Why is nanas—they will only turn right back there always only banana soft serve?” I around and ruin you.

this week in photos

Senior Show

January 31, 2014

exhibition Seniors exhibit their artwork at a gallery in Dreitzer Gallery in Spingold Theater.

The Brandeis Hoot 11

photos by matt brondoli/the hoot