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Winthrop University
Wednesday, October 10, 2018
Rock Hill, SC
From reporting...
Courtesy of the Sisterhood of the Traveling Panties
This Sisterhood of The Traveling Panties is an organization where sexual assault victims get together to support one another. (From left to right) Alexis Rudnik, Summer Alyxandra, Laura Goad, Alexis and Imani Celine
finders. We are not here to prove anyone right or wrong, we are here to collect the facts, so that they can be put together and understood… We are not doing anyone a service if we leave any stone unturned,” Wiles said. Wiles said that once all the facts have been gathered, the process has just begun. If there is evidence that someone has committed a crime the investigators will take all information to the solicitor. The solicitor will look over all facts and then determine whether there is enough to go forward with arrest. The accused will still be allowed a bond hearing and if the bond is paid, will be allowed out of prison until their first court date. Court dates can take up to three years to occur and once in court the victim must then face their attacker. According to Wiles, this long process, in which the victims choose to have the police follow up with the alleged, is often one of the reasons victims choose not to prosecute. “If you have somebody that is a victim, that has that kind of staying power that they’re going to stick with you through something like that, you know they’re going to be a good witness in court… If you have someone who, from the beginning, says ‘look this is too much,’ you also have to step back as a solicitor and as an officer and say ‘We understand,’” Wiles said.
With recent national news focusing on the accusations of Dr. Ford against Kavanaugh, questions on how Winthrop determines fact from fiction in sexual assault accusations are answered. Victoria Howard howardv@mytjnow.com Winthrop University Police Department follows strict procedures when conducting investigations into sexual assault. Sexual assault can lead to PTSD, depression and many other side effects. WUPD takes these cases very seriously. Wes Wiles, assistant chief of police, said that the process that occurs when a victim comes to WUPD can be extensive. First, an official police incident report must be filled out. Then, the Office of Victims Assistance (OVA) is called to provide support for the person experiencing trauma. If it is within the required time frame, the representative from OVA will go with the victim to the hospital to have a rape kit filled out. It is from here that WUPD will begin to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. “You can think of us as fact
see Reportingpg. 3
Opinion
Enviromental regulations repealed by Trump administration
•pg.10
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... to recovery
that feels alone or lost to stop by the office, if they are comfortable enough, and that they should be able to feel heard, not ashamed. “We believe you. We hear you. We are here to support you. Setting up an appointment is super easy. Call or text us at 803-2809467,” Harris said. Genevieve Osterhout, a freshmen musical theater major, said that she has personally felt the impact of the OVA and she said that she feels welcomed when using these resources. “I think [Winthrop] does a really good job, I feel heard, and validated. I think the counselors here are really good at what they do. Especially with being a victim, it’s very hard to talk to men about your situation so seeing a female counselor who gets where I am coming from and isn’t judgemental is so important to getting better,” Osterhout said. Osterhout said that she would encourage others to use the services at Winthrop and that it may not be obligatory to use all of the resources provided, but that they are there for when you need them and that it can truly help you recover and move on. “Don’t feel like you are obligated to see a counselor, but as a person who is, I think it’s very helpful and any reason to make you go is a valid reason and it’s important to acknowledge that you need help and to improve upon your situation. [OVA] absolutely [helped me]. That’s why I made an appointment again,” Osterhout said.
Sexual assault victims can find resources through Winthrop, both off and on campus, for recovery and support Savannah Scott Staff Writer Sexual assault is a grim reality that many people have to face and it can often be hard to find a place to turn if this tragedy strikes. Winthrop has many sources for students affected by sexual assault or rape to assist in recovery along with education efforts to prevent sexual violence on campus. Before attending classes, everyone is required to complete a program titled “Not Anymore” that provides information on sexual assault and what to do when you are a bystander or a victim. Winthrop also offers several services and support groups around campus for those that have been sexually assaulted. The Office of Victims Assistance, located in Crawford 104, hosts many support programs and has staff that helps students recover. Joan Harris is the coordinator of Victims Assistance and she said that OVA will provide any help necessary for recovery. “I encourage [victims of sexual assault] to come to OVA for assistance. We can help you process this and support you through education and options,” Harris said. Harris said that she wants anyone
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S&T
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Index: News 3 | Science & Tech 5 | Sports 6 | Arts & Culture 8 | Opinion 10
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PAGE 2 theJohnsonian October 10, 2018
Winthrop street style Victoria Howard howardv@mytjnow.com
“[I’m inspired by] Instagram influencers.” Becca Tewell, Freshman
“I really like colors, I’m really into pop art and bright paint. I like to dress comfy, so I’m really into flowy stuff.” Julia Breitkreautz, Freshman
“I just like to be different and I don’t like to follow certain trends.” Christin Knight, sophomore
“[I like] comfort, sustainability, and neutral, earthy tones.” Erin Anderson, Junior
“I usually just try different things and see what I’m comfortable with.” Selena Gonterman, Junior
“[I like]being able to set myself aside from other people..” Marisa Fields-Williams, Junior
“I like pastels and sweet, youthful things.” Mariah Houser, Junior
“I’m inspired by Steve Lacey and the desire to look different.” Katelyn Miller, Freshman
“I’m inspired by art, sepcifically music” Scott Willis, Junior
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October 10, 2018
Recovery from front
Reporting from front Students can report anonymously instead of going through the public process of a sexual assault investigation. Due to Title IX colleges are required to take accusations of assaults on campus seriously. These accusations can then be handled through the school, often resulting in suspension or expulsion for the guilty party. Joan Harris is the coordinator of the Office of Victims Assistance. She said that students can report directly to the Dean of Students, or they can submit a report online. Anonymous reports can be filed with or without the victim and alleged attackers name, depending on if the person reporting would like repercussions to occur within the
university system. “Anonymous reporting gives people the ability to put out there that this thing happened to them. It can be very empowering for survivors. We suggest that, if this is something they can do, [because Title IX only applies to other students,] that they use it… this is a way to take back power. They have the ability to put into words what a person did to them through anonymous reporting,” Harris said. Winthrop has many policies in place in regard to discerning the truth in sexual assault allegations. Students who have been attacked are encouraged to either contact WUPD or the Office of Victims Assistance.
According to Harris, there are several options of on and off campus resources for students to use and she said that they try to make them accessible for all students by providing different times to meet with counselors or groups throughout the week. “We have a support group that meets on Tuesdays during common time in Crawford. Off campus Safe Passage, Inc. is available for students. They also have a support group for survivors that meets on Monday evenings,” Harris said. One of these support groups includes the Sisterhood of the Traveling Panties. They meet every Tuesday during common time in the Office of Victims Assistance. The President of the Sisterhood is Jessica Battista, a senior mass communi-
cation major. She said that the Sisterhood helped her form a unique bond with a group of girls that she could relate to. They use the positive events in their life to overcome adversity. “We only have one rule and it’s we don’t talk about our stories cause our stories do not define who we are. Everyone has kind of been through something similar so we all understand each other and it has become such a supportive group. We are in a group chat together, we message each other everyday and someone will just send an inspirational quote. It’s just really nice knowing I’m not alone on campus, especially on some days [when] it’s hard. I know I have a community with me,” Battista said.
Vice president of university relations leaves the nest
Jeff Perez will be leaving his position as vice president of university relations to work as the CEO of South Carolina Independent Colleges Noah Wright Staff Writer After years as the vice president for university relations, Jeff Perez will be spending the next few weeks packing up his office and arranging to move on from his current position. While he may be leaving Winthrop behind, he said that his future will continue to look bright. Perez will be departing Winthrop to become the president and CEO of South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities Inc. on Oct. 29. This marks the end of a four-year tenure at Winthrop that began in 2014 and the beginning of his new career at the organization. The SCICU, stationed in Columbia, serves as a voice for over 20 independent universities and some 30,000 students across the state by offering monetary support and curating a place for collaboration for its member institutions. It also works to further state legislation, supporting higher education. Though he said that he will never forget his time at Winthrop, Perez said that he is enthusiastic about putting his long career in higher education to use while working at the organization. “I think it’s important that I have the background in government relations… but I also understand academic enterprise, having a doctorate in American history, and I’ve worked for five campus presidents and two system chancellors, so I really understand the daily challenges that the campus leaders face, so I can really represent their needs,” Perez said.
Photo courtesy of Winthrop University
Jeff Perez will be leaving Winthrop on October 29.
Perez’s skills in communication made him a potential candidate for the presidency. He was quickly named as the successor to previous president, Mike LeFever, at a board meeting on Sept. 26. He has previously held positions in the field of higher education, including director of communication services at the State University of New York, and a 5-year tenure as vice president for external affairs at The Citadel. While he has had experience in executive roles, this will be Perez’s first time acting as president and CEO for an organization. He said that he looks forward to the challenges and benefits this role carries. “I think some of the challenges are, first, getting to know the campuses and their leadership… what’s important in
this position is building those relationships [and] reacquainting myself with
About The Johnsonian The Johnsonian is the weekly student newspaper of Winthrop University. CONTACT INFORMATION Our offices are located in suite 104 in the DiGiorgio Campus Center. Phone: (803) 323-3419 Email: editors@mytjnow.com Online: mytjnow.com
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your name, major and year if you are a student; your name and title if you are a professor, or your name and profession if you are a member of the community. Letters, cartoons and columns reflect the opinion of the authors and are not necessarily the opinions of The Johnsonian Staff.
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legislators and public officials in Columbia in my new capacity and representing SCICU,” Perez said. Despite the challenge, Perez said that he is looking forward to fulfilling his new responsibilities as president. “When you’re the president the book stops with you. And I’m looking forward to having that responsibility, to really be ultimately responsible for the future of the organization [and] helping it to grow and better serve the member institutions,” Perez said. Perez said that he has always believed the president has a major responsibility to their organizations or universities. He joined Winthrop during an ethics scandal involving former-university president Jamie Comstock Williamson. He said that this made him seek to rebuild communications and public relations in the aftermath. Perez had worked under three university presidents to create communication strategies, consolidated government relations, communication, marketing and university events into a single division, helping grow the university’s visibility within communities, both within York County and across the state. He said that he has mixed emotions when thinking about leaving Winthrop behind. Perez said that he is able to look back fondly on his work at Winthrop, including the creation and unveiling of the current Winthrop logo in Feb.
S&T Editor Mikayla Mangle
Layout Editor Carmen Little
Sports Editor Greta Conboy
Graphic Designer Jordan Farrell
Illustrator Assistant Sports Kamrie Ownes Gabby Gardner
Ad Manager Mariah Houser houserm@mytjnow.com A&C Editor Ad Representative Dillon Oneill Victoria Howard howardv@mytjnow.com Assitant A&C Caleb Hinkley News Editor Caroline Riggs Opinion Editor
Assistant News Anna Sharpe
Erin Streetman
Photographers Sam Ross Paige Denney Camille Riddle Copy Editors Casey Smith Matt Thrift Haleigh Altman
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October 10, 2018
News or not? Panelists describe the differences between “fake news” and the reliable sources available to people. Sarah Delventhal Staff Writer In the current political climate, it remains important to be able to discern the difference between the truth and fake news. The mass communication is hosting a series of news literacy events to educate people on these topics, and this specific topic was discussed during a panel held on Oct. 2. The panel consisted of department chair and professor of mass communication, Guy Reel, associate professor of mass communication, William Schulte, associate professor of English, Amanda Hiner, and Téa Franco, editor-in-chief of The Johnsonian. According to Schulte, “News which has been made up” is what the term “fake news” implies. He said that the term, fake news, is incorrectly used by individuals to describe news that people don’t want to hear because it goes against their political beliefs. Reel said that when a corporation puts out fake news, their goal is to make the audience feel strongly about it. “The idea is to cheat the audience,” Reel said. Maddie Demott, a sophomore psychology major, said that fake news is “when fictional events or happenings are portrayed as if they are factual.” According to Reel, the media is supposed to be objective in their writing. He said that the writers should express opinions, but leave it open for interpretation by the readers. “The opinion [section contains] editorial [pieces] that are supposed to be objective,” Reel said. Hiner said that there are three ways readers are vulnerable. She said that the first is that people are “cognitively wired to have confirmation bias.” She also said that “the venue we get our news [from] is a problem.” Unlike news stations and newspapers, there’s no one controlling the internet, Schulte said. “[There are] SGI models on instagram who are
Courtesy of South Carolina Press Association
Fake news is a term that has been incorrectly used by individuals to describe news that people don’t want to hear or don’t agree with. not [real people]… [and] only 26 per cent of people can differentiate between opinions and facts,” Hiner said. According to Schulte, social media is not the only source responsible for this emergence of the term fake news. “Depending on the source, the media [is] to blame for spreading news… the people should hold them accountable,” Schulte said. Schulte said that there are a few tips for determining whether what you are reading is real or fake. He said that people should watch out for grammar errors, look for misspelling and double check all sources. “Check url, Google the quote and paste the image url in Google image… [and the writers] often don’t have command of English,” Reel said. According to the Pew Research Center, 67 per-
cent of people get their news from social media. Schulte said that students shouldn’t trust these sites because they are not public and could possibly express a bias of the owner. “[The problem is] social media are platforms that are owned by someone else,” Schulte said. Reel said that it is important for journalists to understand the way media and journalism is advancing and evolving. He said that the media continues to change and journalists need to be the link between people and the truth. “Fake news is as old as the printing press. What is new is the way its spreading… we need to get a grip of how it is changing,” Reel said. The panelists said that there are still sources that are reputable and can spread the truth to many people, but it is necessary to weed out all of the “fake news” first.
Let’s play drunk Mario Kart Students tried on drunk simulation goggles to see just how alcohol impairs their driving abilities. Anna Sharpe sharpea@mytjnow.com
Playing Mario Kart is already challenging to many people, so imagine playing Mario Kart while drunk. On Friday, Oct. 5, The Resident Students’ Association hosted Mario Kart: Don’t Drink and Drive. Students were given the opportunity to play Mario Kart while wearing drunk simulation goggles. Drunk goggles have warped lenses that impair your vision to simulate the effects of alcohol. Students put on the goggles and then attempted to play the popular racing game. Javonne Richardson, a freshman psychology major, said that her perception of everything shifted when she put on the goggles. “It was really blurry. The TV was right in front of me but it was sideways. I could see but it was in a totally different direction,” Richardson said. The goggles can also alter many people’s vision, so they were unable to see how near or far upcoming obstacles were. Marvin Bartz, a junior primary education major, said that he was unable to play the game normally since his reaction speed was slowed down. “You have to react pretty fast because you see the objects not as early as otherwise,” Bartz said. Nina Rautenkranz said that it was hard to focus on playing the game correctly because the goggles had
changed her vision so much. “It was really strange because the whole TV was left, to the side and blurry. I think that I had my head up the whole time because I looked under. It was just really hard to concentrate,” Rautenkranz said. Students, on average, ranked lower in the races when wearing the goggles, because of the many different ways they felt hindered by the drunk goggles. Though some students did place higher up, they all agreed that drinking and driving should never mix. Mario Kart: Don’t Drink and Drive was originally planned for Sept., which is Alcohol Awareness Month, but had to be rescheduled due to complications from Hurricane Florence. Ashley Erwin, vice president of programming for RSA, said that the purpose of this event was to bring awareness to the dangers of drunk driving. “A lot of people, they think it’s okay to drink and drive if they’ve just had one beer or maybe even two beers. But even just one drink will affect your decision making and that’s what we want to show here. Each goggle had a different level of intolerance and that just shows that anything could affect you. That’s why we wanted to do this because attention needs to be brought to it,” Erwin said.
Anna Sharpe | Assistant News Editor sharpea@mytjnow.com
The Resident Student’s Association (RSA) hosted an event to teach students about drinking and driving.
Photos Courtesy of Emma Linedenberg
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S&T
theJohnsonian
West Center shines bright, saves energy October 10, 2018
The West Center becomes more sustainable with LED light installations Zuri Anderson Staff Writer The West Center became greener from light emitting diode light installations that are “far more energy efficient, more environmentally friendly and also had cost savings,” said Laura Johnson, the West Center associate director of operations, said. “The lights in both the atrium and gym area were becoming a problem and it was even hard for us to find replacement parts,” Johnson said. She said that the West Center staff worked with Facilities and Management on the light replacement project, starting in fall 2017 with the atrium. LED lights
were installed in the gym in May 2018. Each installment took 2 days. Both installations cost under $73,000 with assistance provided by the South Carolina Energy Office. “The SC Energy Office was able to assist us in a ConserFund loan, a loan through them for energy savings projects. In the long run, our energy savings will pay back the loan,” Johnson said. The West Center is LEED Silver certified, meaning it was recognized by the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, “the most widely used green building rating system in the world,” according to its website. “In order to achieve that, when the building was built, it had to
comply with several requirements
according to ENERGY STAR, a
including building materials, water
government-supported brand that
efficiency, energy efficiency, indoor
informs consumers about energy
environment quality, etc,” Johnson
efficiency. LED lights also dim
said.
overtime, instead of just burning
For example, “At least 50 percent of the building materials contain high-recycled content. At minimum, 20 percent of the building materials were manufactured locally or regionally, and 75 per cent of the construction waste was diverted from local landfills,” according to the Winthrop University webpage on the West Center. LED lights are more efficient than incandescent lights because they produce light 90 percent more efficiently than their counterparts,
out or failing. “LEDs are ‘directional’ light sources, which means they emit light in a specific direction, unlike incandescent and CFL, which emit light and heat in all directions. That means LEDs are able to use light and energy more efficiently in a multitude of applications,” according to ENERGY STAR. The only other sustainable additions to the West Center was a water filter some time last academic year. Johnson said that there are no improvements scheduled.
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New phone, who this?
The rumors surrounding Google’s newest releases & Samsung’s newest watch Gweneshia Wadlington Staff Writer In the fight for better technology, Apple Inc. and Samsung Group are constantly fighting for the championship belt but, once again, Google LLC has thrown its’ hat in the ring. There have been rumors that Google will be releasing two new phones; Google Pixel 3 and Google Pixel 3 XL and introducing the Google Pixel Watch. Google Pixel Watch Have you ever been working so hard and you’re so tired from the days events that you forgot to charge your phone? Say goodbye to the lack of charge because Google has found a cure to our forgetfulness. The Pixel 3 is said to have a multi-day battery with its all new wearable chip. So now you can rest easy knowing that even if you forgot to charge your phone, you’ll have tons of battery life to go throughout the day, it may even last a couple of additional days. The phone will be powered by Wear OS. Wear OS has the ability to monitor your heartrate, create a better way to receive notifications, be compatible for Google Pay and you’ll be able to take Google Assistant with you wherever you go. Google Pixel 3 &
Pixel 3 XL The Pixel 3/ 3XL is said to be IP68 dust/waterproof. The glass is said to be made with Corning Gorilla Glass 5,with a display featuring OS Android 8.0 (OREO) always on display. The phone is rumored to run on a Qualcomm SnapDragon 845 Adrerw 540 processor. The phone is supposed to be available in 6GB/64GB or 8/128GB for storage. The display features a Super AMOLED QHD screen that is 5’2 on the diagonal with a resolution of 1440x2560 pixels with a 18:9 ratio. It is said to be configured with a 19 mp Primary camera f/1.7, Dual-LED flash, 13 mp front camera f/1.7, 3.5 mm audio jack and a Type C charging jack. The phones features fingerprint accessibility and has a Fast battery charging, non-removable Li-on 3850 mAH Battery. These new cellular devices are rumored to come out around Oct. 9. If those rumors weren’t exciting enough, it seems that Samsung has created a new watch, the Samsung Galaxy Watch. Samsung Galaxy Watch Samsung is releasing two watches that are completely the same aside from the sizes, which are 46mm, and 42mm. Each watch comes with at least three colors. For the 46mm Its available in Black, Blue and Grey. The 42mm is available in purple, black, red, pink, grey and lime yellow. Both
the watches are the exact same weight as the older models, according to Samsung. However, users have said that they feel lighter in comparison. The watches are military graded and are 5 ATM Water resistant that allows you to swim with the watch on. The watches have Super AEO LED circular displays with a 360x360 resolution. The screen for the 46mm is about 1.46 m and the 42mm watch is 1.2’ case. The watches have a rotating bezel that allows you to navigate the OS. The feature only has two buttons. A back button that, when held down, can access the Samsung Pay option and a home button that will bring its user back to the home screen and, when held, can access the app drawer. Each watch feature a sensor with a heart rate monitor that will monitor your steady heart rate. They also feature an accelerometer and a gyroscope for movement and step tracking, a GPS for route tracking and a Barometer for elevation measurements. The 46mm watch features a 472 miliAMP battery while the 42mm watch has a smaller 270 miliAMP battery. The watches have a Exynos wearable processor, ran with Tizon OS. The 46mm watch contains 4-6 days of battery life while the 42mm watch contains a 2-3 day battery life span.
Mikayla Mangle | Science & Technology Editor manglem@mytjnow.com
The watches have 1.5 gigs of RAM and 4 gigs of internal storage. Because Samsung has continued their partnership with Spotify, users are able to download playlists to the watch’s internal storage and pair it with their headphones to leave their phone at home. Like many Samsung devices, the Samsung watches are very customizable to the users liking. The watches have tons of great new features such as Watch lock, Eject Water Function, Goodnight Mode and Screen capture. Watch Lock will lock the watch while you swim to prevent the water from waking and manipulating the watch. Eject Water Function is a function that uses sound waves to eject or remove water
from the watches speakers. Goodnight Mode allows its user to sleep in the watch to track sleeping patterns without waking the user with notifications. Screen capture is very similar to ScreenShot, it allows users to capture what is on the screen by holding the power button down and sliding the screen from left to right. The Samsung Watches are available for purchase. With all these different and amazing new technologies coming out, its hard to tell what the next big thing will be. But leave it to Apple, Samsung and Google to figure it out and continue to fight for the best brand title.
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SPORTS
theJohnsonian
October 10, 2018
Gabby Gardner/TheJohnsonian
United States disc golf championship at Winthrop University The United States Disc Golf Championship and Dean’s Cup was held at Winthrop Gold, drawing in national and international players to Rock Hill. Joseph Calamia Staff Writer Among a few onlookers, a group al fields and Winthrop Coliseum. of three to four players stand at the Players from all over the world, like start of a hole near the lake and pre- Steve Rico from Los Angeles, are pare to start the course. The players part of this prestigious event. rub their hands on the ground, pull “It’s great to see the course and out a disc from their caddies and sport evolve over the years,” Rico prepare to throw. said, “The technology has been Each disc is like a different type getting better in helping the course of golf club. The players throw the be harder.” discs, aiming to land them in a steel According to Winthrop’s webbasket in the fewest strokes possisite, the Disc Golf course on campus ble. This is one of called Winthrop the moments that Gold, attracts help encapsulate players from the sport of disc around the world golf and its reach and hosts tournaamong players ments that draw around the world. in competitors like Winthrop Garrett Gurthie hosted the 20th from Gainesville, United States Florida. Disc Golf Cham“It’s one of the pionship near the toughest courses in Winthrop Colithe world, with all seum from Oct. Gabby Gardner/TheJohnsonian the out-of-bounds 3 to Oct. 6. Disc areas,” Gurthie golf is a form of said. golf that uses This year, the flying discs from Winthrop Gold a tee position to course changed. the target goal, Players, like Jamie with the score Kiep from South calculated from Georgia, have to the amount of rely on wise decithrows toward sions to complete the target. each hole. Winthrop “The course is University hosts very challenging,” a disc golf course Kiep said. “It’s the located at Winmost challenging throp Lake, near Joseph Calamia course you’ll find the recreationout here. You
“”
Competitor Michael Gaummert from Portland, Oregon notes his familiarity with Winthrop’s course.
Greta Conboy | Sports Editor conboyg@mytjnow.com
have to bring your and players from all A-game.” over the country, Some changes, such as Pete Curran such as the one from Liberty Univermade to the first sity in Lynchburg, hole, are modeled Virginia and players after the original from North Carolina hole’s design, State University. while the fifth “[The Dean’s Cup hole leans more and the USDGC] to the peninsula’s both play the same,” edge than it did Curran said. “No previously. Comother course has this Gabby Gardner/TheJohnsonian petitor Michael much out-of-bounds Gaummert from areas.” Portland, Oregon This tournanotes his familment brings players iarity with Winto Winthrop for throp’s course. competition, many “There’s been of whom have a couple of layout competed in prior changes, but [the tournaments or course] is still the qualifications before same since day coming to the finals one,” Gaummert in Rock Hill. said. “You have to The website be the best players “Disc Golf Unitaround the world to ed” noted that Joseph Calamia be here,” Rico said. there were 24 inThe number of ternational playcompetitors and ers that qualified for the USDGC. teams that qualified and registered Qualifier and competitor Pasi Koivu for this tournament creates a sense is one of eight disc golf players from of camaraderie and shows how disc Finland among the international golf has evolved twenty years after participants. the creation of the sport. “I qualified and placed fourth in “[The USDGC] shows that disc the European tournament [before golf’s popularity and its wide range coming to the USDGC],” Koivu said. today,” Gaummert said. Another tournament that occurs on Winthrop Gold is the Dean’s Cup, which attracts collegiate teams
“”
Pasi Koivu is one of eight disc golf players from Finland among the international participants.
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October 10, 2018
On the walls of the hall of fame Winthrop Athletics soon to induct four new members in the Hall of Fame Beneshia Wadlington wadlingtonb@mytjnow.com
Winthrop Athletics is proud to announce four new members that will make up the 2019 Hall of Fame induction class. The selections for the 2019 induction class are Mark Cooke (softball coach), Ashley Fann (women’s basketball), Michael Jenkins (men’s basketball) and Heath Rollins (baseball). The Winthrop Athletic Hall of Fame was created in 2001, making this the 16th class in school history and bringing the membership to a total of 86. Mark Cooke (1990-2018) coached collegiate softball for 33 years and spent 29 seasons leading the Winthrop program. He ranks first all-time in Big South history for all-time victories (757) and conference only victories (217). He earned Big South Coach of the Year honors three times and guided the team to the Big South championship game on 11 occasions. Cooke also led the team to Big South Championships in 1990, 1991, 2007 and 2008. In 2007, he became the second Big South coach to lead his program to 50 wins in a single season and remains one of two in league history.
Ashley Fann (2005-09) is a three-time AllBig South selection and was the 2005 Big South Conference Freshman of the Year. When she graduated in 2009, she ranked second all-time in rebounds, second in games started, third in games played, third in minutes played, third in free throws attempted, third in free throws made and third in career points. Her 1,603 career points currently rank fifth all-time. Fann was also a three-time selection to the Big South All-Academic Team. Heath Rollins (2005-06) spent two seasons with the Eagle baseball program amassing a large amount of honors. He earned All-Big South honors in 2005 and 2006 and was named the 2006 Big South Conference Player of the Year. He earned All-American honors in 2006 by three different national publications. In 2006, he won 13 games on the mound and led the team with 143 strikeouts. In just two seasons, he cracked the program’s all-time Top 10 in on-base percentage, triples, stolen bases, lowest opponent batting average, strikeouts per nine innings, wins and strikeouts. He helped lead the Eagles to NCAA Regional appearances in 2005 and 2006. In 2006, he was selected in the 11th round of the Major League Baseball Draft by the Tampa Bay
Devil Rays. Michael Jenkins (2004-08) was a key contributor for the program for three seasons, a twoyear starter and was a member of four Big South Championship teams. Jenkins earned All-Big South honors twice and was the 2008 Big South Conference Tournament MVP. He earned Big South All-Tournament Team honors in 2007 and 2008. His 33-point performance in the 2008 Big South Championship game set both a Big South and Winthrop record for most points in a championship contest. This record still stands today. He became the first Eagle in program history to hit 100 or more threes in a single season. “When I sit back and think about what it took to make it here--the sacrifices, adversity, tragedy, triumph, dedication and hard work--it is hard to put my emotions aside and truly express how I feel at the moment,” Jenkins said. “I am very honored and truly blessed to be a part of Winthrop Athletics 2019 Hall Of Fame induction class. This is such a blessing. I am thankful for God, and everyone who played a role in my success.” Congratulations to all four of the Hall of Fame inductees. The annual Hall of Fame induction banquet will be Friday, Feb. 1, 2019.
Picture Provided by Winthrop Athletics
Hall of Fame Will Welcome Four New Members In 2019
Women’s golf makes top 30 at Starmount Fall Classic
Winthrop golf players Dantonio and Funderburg show out at Fall Classic Submission to the Johnosnian GREENSBORO, NC— Senior Chelsea Dantonio and freshman Sarah Funderburg each had Top 30 finishes to pace the Winthrop women’s golf team at the Starmount Fall Classic. EVENT: Starmount Fall Classic DATE: Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2018 (Final Round) LOCATION: Starmount Forest Country Club (Greensboro, NC) COURSE INFO: Par 72 (6,186 yards) PLACE (WINTHROP): Eighth out of 15 teams (928/+64) FINAL RESULTS - TAP-INS
Photo courtesy of Tim Crowie
Chelsea Dantonio had the top finish among the team, as she tied for 25th at +13. Freshman Sarah Funderburg tied for 28th in her first collegiate event at +14. Dantonio and Funderburg tied for the team’s low score of the final round with a 76. Alexis Brindley finished in a tie for 33rd, which is the best finish in her two-year career. The three-day total of 233 for Brindley is also a collegiate best (the previous best was 238 at the Pirate Collegiate Classic, her first collegiate tournament). As a team, the Eagles were in eighth place.
Chelsea Dantonio post-swing at the Starmount Fall Classic
Gabby Gardner | Assistant Sports Editor gardnerg@mytjnow.com
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A&C
theJohnsonian October 10, 2018
Laura Munson: The Zombie Pirate As Halloween approaches, the spooky celebrations continue and the Winthrop students performing at SCarowinds continue to bring the scares. Jessica Shealy Special to the Johnsonian Laura Munson’s favorite holiday is Halloween. She is a junior integrated marketing communications major, she is minoring in theatre and she is also the Vice President of the Improv This! club. Her work at SCarowinds has brought her closer to her love of costumes and all things scary. “It’s always been a big thing in my family so there is a lot of nostalgia attached to Halloween for me,” Munson said. This year she is playing a cadaverous pirate. She is stationed in DeadMan’s Landing, a new pirate themed scare zone. This zone is bigger than a maze and set up to be a spooky, bustling town full of seafarers, merchants and scrappy ruffians. Munson has been performing scares as a Screamster at SCarowinds for two years. She recalls that some of her best scares actually happened last year when she was acting as a torture victim in The Depths of Darkness maze. “The room would go dark with guests inside and I would sneak up on them in the darkness. When the lights came back on, I would suddenly be right in front of them, which disoriented people, so I could get a better scare,” Munson said. While visitors to the haunted theme park only see the employees as nameless makeup and costuming wearing people there to scare them, Munson notes how there is so much more behind the scenes. “One of my favorite things about SCarowinds is the It’s actually pretty culture among the empowering workers. Haunt work when you’re a tiny is a really taxing job, so everyone recognizes the little blonde girl importance of forming and you manage to terrify a group bonds with fellow monsters, encouraging of people. one another and having Laura Munson each other’s backs,” Munson said. “You make some really good friends while working at a haunt.” Carowinds promotes in the SCarowinds Haunt Talent job description that being a Screamster will lead to “learning, growing, and having fun.” Munson’s experiences on the job certainly reflect this and so much more. While learning about integrated marketing communications at Winthrop she is also learning the valuable life skill of teamwork at SCarowinds. She is able to
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Dillon O’Neill | A&C Editor oneilld@mytjnow.com
Picture Provided by Laura Munson
grow her passion for acting, at both college and in a professional enviroment. “I would absolutely recommend auditioning for SCarowinds. It’s a big commitment, but it definitely pays off,”
Munson said. “You don’t have to be a big, tall, traditionally intimidating person to be a SCarowinds monster because that’s only one of many ways to be scary. It’s actually pretty empowering when you’re a tiny little blonde girl and you manage to terrify a group of people.”
theJohnsonian
October 10, 2018
Akira Movie Review
The Art History Association continues to explore the theme of teen angst in their Film Festival with the 1980s classic and pivotal anime film, “Akira.” Joseph Calamia Staff Writer
In a cyberpunk dystopia, a gang of teenage delinquents called the Capsules hop on their futuristic motorcycles. They drive down a neon sign town in a battle against a rival gang known as the Clowns. The leader of the Capsules cruises around on his red motorcycle and uses a pipe to knock down the Clowns, all while a militant protest of demonstrators is happening against the crooked government. In the midst of all of this, the leader’s friend encounters an elderly looking child with psychokinetic powers trying to escape the military. The friend is injured and taken away. He develops his own psychic powers that could bring him to the edge of madness and destruction to the city they live in. Winthrop’s Art History Association recently hosted a showing of the 1988 anime film “Akira” at Kinard Auditorium on Oct. 2 .Graphic Design Professor Jason Tslentis led the discussion. The film was inspired by the manga by the same name with author Katsuhiro Otomo at the helm as the director. The film originally premiered in Japan on July 16, 1988 with two English language releases in 1989 and 2001. “Akira” is wellregarded as one of the greatest science fiction films of all time and is praised for its complex themes, animation, special effects and cyberpunk setting. The films follows delinquent Shōtarō Kaneda who struggles to live through gang warfare and government corruption in Neo-Tokyo. Years
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before this, a mysterious explosion wiped out films like “Blade Runner.” With a crooked, Tokyo and kickstarted World War III. In the government- backed police and military, crime’s 2001 English-dub release of the film the main running wild among citizens and doomsday cults character is voiced by Johnny Yong Bosch. His making demonstration of the end of days. This vocal range is impressive whether he is struggling helps makes the city feel dystopic and gritty, with in a fight or trying to hit on a revolutionary girl. all the characters struggling through the events of Kaneda does a good job in showing his emotion the film. and headstrong will to his friends. His growth The themes of the movie showcase an is put to the test when dealing with finding his interesting angle of dystopia, through friend and being in the crosshairs of a revolution. government power and the science through child The character of experimentation. In one Tetsuo Shima, voiced by key moment, the military Joshua Seth, delves into colonel sees the current a frightened teenager governing council as feckless dealing with personal bureaucrats who care more issues. He finds himself about themselves and would suddenly forced into betray each other if given a hospital battling his the chance. This is proven new psychic powers. At and the colonel is forced one moment, Tetsuo to stage a coup. Another has nightmares about aspect is the student and three psychic children militant protest that would who use hallucinations foreshadow moments like of stuffed animals to the Tiananmen Square scare and hurt him. Due Massacre of 1989. “Akria” to distress in his youth also tackles the subject and his new powers, of playing god with Tetsuo develops an experimentation of the almost egomaniacal psychic characters and how personality as he their measured in case of takes advantage of his disaster. The film ends on powers. He goes on a an open note with themes of destructive rampage universal creation and how to find the mysterious this would affect human Akria the government evolution. Photo provided by American Art Association has been trying to Overall, “Akira” is an Akira, Movie Poster replicate. interesting and gritty anime In terms of adventure that explores the animation, the animators used a distinct and idea of power and trauma combined in someone interesting style that allows the and the consequences that follow. The detailed characters to move fluidly and make the environments, interesting characters and backgrounds stand out in both day and night underlying themes help make this film stand the scenes. New colors were even invented during test of time and help bring anime to the United film production in backgrounds, as most of States. So rev up your bikes and brace yourself for the scenes take place during night. The setting this entertaining and action-packed film. of Neo-Tokyo shows inspiration from other
York county fashion week
Camille Riddle/TheJohnsonian
The inaugural York County Fashion week was held at the beginning of October, Camille Riddle had the unique opportunity of going behind the scenes and working for one of the designers. Camille Riddle riddlec@mytjnow.com I arrived at Camp Thunderbird at 3pm, this was the location of the opening reception and runway. I followed a few people who turned out to be makeup artists to the building where the models were getting dressed and ready. The designer I was standing in for is Emily Morabito, and her brand is called Remedy Fashions. She is from Rock Hill and is now studying fibers and textiles at Parsons in New York City. I hung up Emily’s clothes and began the search for who I was in charge of decorating. One by one, I found the models I was looking for and worked with the hairdressers and makeup artists to make sure the final product went with Emily’s vision and the aesthetics of
Remedy Fashions. Most of the makeup artists and hairdressers I made friends with were from the Paul Mitchell School in Charlotte, so much like most of the models, they were all students. It was incredible to see how many people were not only willing to volunteer their time but also really care about the work they were doing. Elise Smith, a PMTS Charlotte student, told me that “it was such a success and [she was] so honored to have been able to work the first York County Fashion Week.” I also got to talk to William Williams, the community outreach leader at PMTS Charlotte. We talked about how a fashion week in our very own York County was such an incredible opportunity because “it used to only be New York, Paris, Milan.” “Localized fashion shows bring the best and brightest from any given area and give them a place to display their crafts,” Williams said. Most of the models used for Remedy were in high school. In fact, many arrived on the scene with their parents. One model in particular could be found studying at any moment she was not needed in the production process. Her name is Jillian and I asked her about why she modeled and was willing to take so much time out of her day to be here as a volunteer. Simply, she stated that, “I’m here today because I love fashion and modeling and being in front of the camera.” Remedy was the first collection to walk, so my models were the first ready.
Remedy models, Jillian on far right
Again, I was amazed at the production of it all. There were about 6 boutiques and designers represented and each had between five and nine looks on display. Which in turn meansthat there were at least 30 models needed. There were about 20 stylists there to help out with hair and makeup, ranging from individual people to those with PMTS Charlotte. There were a few parents floating around, as well as a few children, and it seemed a few designers had a trusted friend or partner there with them as well. Of course, there were modeling coaches and people who were working for the fashion week that bounced in and out. Since my models were ready and I did not have any more responsibilities to attend to, I just sort of wandered around observing the process. Another one of the stylists, Venecia Tierra, who was there to oversee everything talked to me about what a great experience “getting to know the designers and their visions for the show” was. At this point, I had not yet seen the actual event area or the runway the models would be on. I knew it was going to be outside, and as I went to investigate someone called for Remedy Fashions. It was a modeling coach who was overseeing the way the models were going to perform on the walk. She informed me that I would have to walk in place of the designer, which I did not even know was a thing that was done at runways. She brought me over to the event area,
which was a pavilion laced with snacks and drinks and chairs and people. The path for the models was a circular one that had bright red chairs running along either side of it, as well as little fireplaces in a few areas. There was a stopping point at the part of the circle that came closest to the seats at the front end of the pavilion, and she said this is where the models would stop and pose and also where I would stop to thank the audience. The show finally began, and it only seemed like a split second until I had to walk out after my five models. Since we were outside, it was incredibly dark besides the very brightspotlight that followed the models down the line. It was hard work just not to trip over yourown feet. After I walked, I got to sit back and observe the rest of the show, and it was a lovelyproduction. Everyone’s attire was so different and specific to their personal style, and it wasreally fun to see how everyone’s appearance had been changed since their arrival. Just as soon as it started, the show was over, and the room that was once filled with so many people and curling wands and eyeshadow palettes and hangers was back to an empty YMCA building. I know many of the people I met, models or stylists, were planning to be back at least once or twice throughout the week, but because Remedy was only featured on the opening night, so this was my last look at the production of York County Fashion Week. Until next year, that is.
Caleb Hinkley | Assistant A&C Editor hinkleyc@mytjnow.com
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OPINION
theJohnsonian
Mass environmental regulations repealed by Trump October 10, 2018
Emily Cromer/TheJohnsonian
President Trump has been repaling environmental acts en masse during his presidency thus far. Emily Cromer cromere@mytjnow.com Since being elected into office last year, President Trump and his administration have been actively repealing environmental protection laws that have been in place for years. According to the New York Times, his administration “has often targeted environmental rules it sees as overly burdensome to the fossil fuel industry, including major Obama-era policies aimed at fighting climate change.” This means that the Trump administration is repealing the laws that prevent businesses and corporations from making even more money by using production methods that pollute the environment. Trump and his administration have repealed around 70 regulations thus far, most of those being air pollution and emissions, as well as drilling and extraction, according to the New York
Times. Some of the air pollution rollbacks include a Clinton-era rule designed to limit toxic emissions from major industrial polluters, a 2015 rule that prohibited the use of hydrofluorocarbons, powerful greenhouse gases as a replacement for ozone-depleting substances and announced intent to withdraw the United States from the Paris climate agreement. The process of withdrawing, however, cannot be completed until 2020. According to an article written by Juliet Eilperin, Brady Dennis and Chris Mooney for the Washington Post, the Trump administration released a statement that the planet will warm seven degrees by 2100. This rise in temperature would be catastrophic. “Many coral reefs would dissolve in increasingly acidic oceans. Parts of Manhattan and Miami would be underwater without costly coastal defenses. Extreme heat waves would routinely smother large parts of the globe,” Eilperin, Dennis and Mooney reported. The Trump administration, however, did not report this predicted rise in order to gain followers to combat climate change. Instead, they assume that “the planet’s fate is already sealed.” Wyatt Smith, a sophomore English major, said “I personally think that the repeals are simply atrocious. Besides, with global warming being an
Emily Cromer/TheJohnsonian obviously factual occurrence, I think President Trump is in blatant denial of what is true and what is fantasy. In other words, global warming is real, and these repeals are dangerous. If President Trump is not kept in check, then humanity as we know it may soon cease to exist.” The world as a whole needs environmental protection laws for a very simple reason: the Earth is our home, and we have nowhere else to go if we destroy it. There is no “planet B.” Either we take care of what we have now, or severely regret it in years to come. While we do have to find ways to create and harness energy for our day to day lives, we should do so using renewable sources, such as wind, solar and water power. Something that we see in nature consistently is it’s resiliency: a forest fire can lay the foundation for another forest by providing nutrients to the soil. Plants and animals can adapt and evolve to new environmental conditions. We cannot, however, rely on this fact. The pollution we are causing is preventing the Earth from adapting, from being resilient. If we do not act now, the planet will become unrecognizable and people will begin to suffer even more than they already are. Capitalism and profit should not be prioritized the health and well being of ourselves, our families, or our planet.
Abolish the 13th Amendment?
Is Kanye West’s recent controversy an attention grab or actually meaningful? Zuri Anderson andersona@mytjnow.com
Rapper Kanye West ignited a firestorm on Twitter on Sept. 30 with a picture of him wearing his “Make America Great Again” hat and some interesting comments: “This represents good and America becoming whole again. We will no longer outsource to other countries. We build factories here in America and create jobs. We will provide jobs for all who are free from prisons as we abolish the 13th amendment. Message sent with love,” West said. West’s call to abolish the 13th amendment were outlandish. Besides the fact that the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery following the Civil War, has nothing to do with national employment issues or the economy, these comments were even more unbelievable coming from the mouth of an African American man. Like the many celebrities on Twitter who responded to this asinine tweet, I was stunned, incredulous, disappointed, angry, confused, and all types of other emotions. “There’s nothing more maddening than debating someone who doesn’t know history, doesn’t read books, and frames their myopia as virtue. The level of unapologetic conjecture I’ve encountered lately isn’t just frustrating, it’s retrogressive, unprecedented and absolutely terrifying,” Chris Evans, known for playing Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, said. Lana Del Rey also shared her thoughts via Instagram. “Trump becoming our president was a loss for the country, but your support of him is a loss for the culture. I can only assume you relate to his
personality on some level. Delusions of Grandeur, extreme issues with narcissism -- none of which would be a talking point if we weren’t speaking about the man leading our country,” Del Rey said. West did clarify his tweet on TMZ LIve, stating that he meant to say “amend,” not “abolish.” He was specifically referencing the “exemption for
do with each other. Even in your clarification, which has a valid point, you failed to connect the original tweet’s message about the economy and how it relates to incarceration of African Americans. So, what was the real message, Kanye? While his clarification was insightful, the initial tweet could be an attention grab. Celebrities tend to do this every so often to keep themselves relevant. I’m not sure why since West’s collaborative single “I Love It” with Lil Pump still has people talking, but the tweet comes at a rather tense moment in America. People all over the world are talking about Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh’s sexual assault allegations from Christine Blasey Ford and the FBI probe, and he decided to tweet that? My goodness. Cameryn Mitchell, a senior business administration major, said that West’s remarks are “extremely offensive, not only to people of color, but to the millions of people who are currently living in slave like conditions around the world.” “I think the point he was trying to make, in regards to the prison system, are valid and can spark conversations that lead to necessary change. In the end, this is just another example Jordan Farrell / The Johnsonian of the power of words and influence,” Mitchell involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime,” said. according to the Huffington Post, making his Senior mass communication major Shannon interview a commentary on the American prison Simmons, who has been following West for a system. He also noted that there should be more year, believes that West is seeking attention. representation in the federal government. “I think he’s saying and doing all of these wild “We need people to amend the 13th amendthings for attention. He knows the kind of public ment that look like the people that the 13th influence he has, and he takes advantage of it by amendment are talking about,” West said. The sharing opinions that he knows are controverpoint still stands -- you disrespected the black sial,” Simmons said. “He seems like a person that community with two issues that have nothing to says things without truly thinking about it first.”
Erin Streetman | Opinion Editor streetmane@mytjnow.com
theJohnsonian
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October 10, 2018
Nuclear concerns in South Carolina: addressing misinformation What is the truth regarding recent reported leaks and conroversies surrounding South Carolina’s nuclear plants? Evan Schultheis Special to the Johnosnian nuclear fuel for our nation’s 99 commercial nuclear reactors. The Uranium fuel production process utilizes some hazardous chemicals: in the most recent incident hydrofluoric acid created a 2-inch hole in the cement and deposited Uranium in approximately six cubic feet of soil, at concentrations up to 4000 parts per million (ppm), or about 0.4 per cent. For reference, this is higher than ocean water, which has a natural concentration of 3 parts per billion (0.003 ppm), but lower than the highest concentrations of Uranium in rock, in the Athabasca basin in Canada, where they reach 17-18% (up to 180,000 ppm). Of the three leaks at the Westinghouse fuel production facility, none of Jordan Farrell / The Johnsonian them reached groundwater according to the South Carolina Department of Health and Many students here at Winthrop may have Environmental Control. heard about recent incidents in South Carolina But citizens are asking: what if they did reach related to nuclear energy. Over the past year, groundwater and what if someone had been state newspapers have been reporting on exposed? We actually have data on the effects controversy surrounding the cancellation of the of Uranium Hexafluoride exposure from leaks V.C. Summer expansion, and the Department of at fuel production facilities, which can be found Energy’s decision to defund the MOX facility at in the NCBI Toxological Report. These studies Savannah River Site. More pressing to citizens’ found that death was caused not by Uranium, but concerns is the report of multiple Uranium aerosolized Hydrofluoric acid. Likewise, Uranium leaks at a Westinghouse-owned fuel production inhalation by Uranium miners has been studied facility near Hopkins, South Carolina just extensively and higher cancer and death rates downstream of the state capital of Columbia. As have been found, but these studies did not rule a result, many South Carolinians are outraged, out smoking or secondhand smoke, crystalline or concerned about whether they have consumed silica, or diesel exhaust as factors. They also “contaminated” water. Throw on top of this the largely attributed the cancer not to Uranium, recent announcement claiming a death is being but Radon gas. Therefore, South Carolinians attributed to radiation from the Fukushima have little to be concerned about, unless directly Daiichi nuclear accident by the Japanese ingesting or inhaling large quantities of Uranium government, and anti-nuclear activists are hexafluoride, in which event the chemical effects throwing their full arsenal of cherry-picked data and counterfactual information at the public. But would kill you long before the Uranium did. But what about radiation from Uranium? let’s look at the facts about Uranium, radiation, Radiation can best be compared to medicine: and the recent incident in Richland county. most doses are safe, but you can overdose, which The fuel production facility in Hopkins, South Carolina is one of only three in the US that makes can harm you. The average American receives
about 3.1 millisieverts (mSv) of Radiation every year. This is best conceptualized in the “banana equivalent dose,” or how much radiation you’d receive from the Potassium-40 in the average banana by consuming one. Every year, the average person receives about 31,000 bananasworth of radiation from natural sources. All of us here at Winthrop are also about 8 miles from the Catawba Nuclear Station, from which every year we receive an equivalent dose of a little under 1 banana’s worth. Sleeping next to a chunk of highgrade Uranium ore, or the contaminated soil from the Westinghouse facility, would net you a dose of about 10 bananas in a year. In order to put this into context, a dose equivalent to eating 1,000,000 bananas in a short period, or 100 mSv, is considered the lowest dosage associated with a chance of negative health effects by all major governmental and scientific bodies. The man from Fukushima, whom I mentioned earlier, received approximately 74 mSv in one year of exposure. It is generally agreed that the human body can take up to 250 mSv of cumulative exposure in one year with no negative health impacts. Leading radiation scientist Dr. Geraldine Thomas, who specializes in Chernobylrelated cancers, has stated that his death can most likely be attributed to secondhand smoke or other chemical exposure, not radiation. In conclusion, South Carolina citizens have no reason to concern themselves with being endangered by these mistakes made at Westinghouse’s fuel production facility. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission, in response to the fact one of the three leaks occurred in 2008 and was left unreported, has stepped in to conduct an environmental study of the site, in order to determine if the company’s negligence requires further reprimand. In most other industries, such events would not warrant the level of scrutiny nuclear power receives. High standards keep the nuclear industry safe, to the point where they have impeded our attempts to construct new reactors in recent years, and it is a clean, safe, and reliable method of energy production. South Carolina citizens, therefore, should support proper oversight of the facility, but also support continued operation and expansion of nuclear facilities in South Carolina, and have no reason to fear for their safety from
To puff or not to puff
While vaping and juuling remain a healthier and viable alternative to cigarettes, nicotine dependency rises as teens gain easier access to e-cigarettes. Katelyn Miller Staff Writer As juuls gain popularity, the FDA is creating many regulations in an attempt to prevent teens from getting their hands on them. Juuls are the latest e-cigarette, and due to a high nicotine content, they are highly addictive. Juuls were originally created to help those who were addicted to cigarettes by offering them a “healthier” option in order to wean them off cigarettes. However, many people, specifically younger people, do not use juuls to quit smoking. In fact, between 2011 and 2015, e-cigarette use within highschoolers went from 1.5% to 16%. In middle schoolers, it went from 0.6% to 5.3%. Music performance major Ryan Byrnes said, “I tried switching to juuls [from cigarettes], it was more addictive and I ended up spending more money on it.” Juul pods are fifteen dollars a pack. Each pod is the same as about one pack of cigarettes, which is about 200 puffs of nicotine. Because there is such a high concentration of nicotine in juul pods, they become more addictive, and more expensive. Many people claim that they go through one pod a day, and there are 4 pods in one pack. So, those people that are going through one pod a day are
spending roughly 30 dollars a week, making juuling not only high addictive, but also very expensive. The FDA has not yet approved juuls and they are threatening to shut the company down if they cannot find a way to prevent the youth from purchasing them. The company’s original intention for the juul was to help people quit smoking. However, this ended up backfiring, as most of the youth that are now addicted to juuls have not even smoked a cigarette before. While juuling is technically a “healthier” alternative, people can still get “popcorn lung” from e-cigarettes because they contain an artificial flavor called diacetyl. This damages their lungs and causes coughing and shortness of breath. It is also irreversible. Nicotine itself has many dangers as well. According to the University of New Hampshire, nicotine can cause insulin resistance which leads to type 2 diabetes from chronic nicotine exposure. Nicotine can also cause suppressed appetite, increased heart rate and blood pressure, lung disease, chronic bronchitis, and impairment of prefrontal brain development in adolescents. IMC major Victoria Howard said, “I think that juuling is
a good alternative to cigarettes, I had a fling with cigarettes and juuls helped me not smoke them, but I don’t like that high-schoolers have normalized it.” Cigarette smoking can lead to various types of cancer, namely lung cancer. The death toll from smoking cigarettes is roughly 480,000 people each year. Juuling and vaping can help decrease this number, offering those who smoke cigarettes a healthier alternative. These options are not safe, however, and can still easily lead to lung damage and nicotine dependency. While Juuling remains a prevalent problem, the company has begun to make an effort to appeal to adults, rather than teens. While the company is changing their look, they face the risk of being shut down due to the reality of teenage nicotine use.
Katelyn Miller/ The Johnsonian
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theJohnsonian
October 10, 2018