FEBRUARY 23 by The Pace Press

February 23, 2012

www.pacepress.org

Volume 63 | Issue 15

THE PACE PRESS SERVING PACE UNIVERSITY’S MANHATTAN CAMPUS SINCE 1948

University remembers

beloved Professor Anne Lommel OLIVIA BETETA Arts Intern

Late University Performing Arts professor Anne Lommel.

“

Anne was just an amazing woman and an even more amazing mentor for every person in the Performing Arts Department. Her amazing talents will not be forgotten. — Dylan Bustamante

Performing Arts Professor Anne Lommel taught at the University for over 10 years before passing away at the age of 48 on Feb. 9, after battling cancer. In that time, as the head costume designer, set designer and costume shop supervisor, she grew to be one of the most beloved and adored professors at the University. The performing arts department is planning on an official memorial for Lommel in March. Dean of the Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Nira Herrmann, released a statement announcing the death of Lommel. In her statement to the University, Associate Chair of the Performing Arts Department Ruis Woertendyke stated, “Anne’s influence on the department will always be remembered not only because all of our acting students have been dressed by her, but because she has mentored and guided many students whose interest has shifted towards costuming because of her influence. “Her work and dedication on the Costuming focus that has become such an important part of our proposed Design and Technical Theatre BFA Degree program will make Anne a perpetually current part of the Performing Arts Department. She will be greatly missed and always remembered,” Woertendyke said. Countless students and faculty found friendship with Lommel. Grant Kretchik, Director of the University’s BFA Acting program, was one of Lommel’s first students when she began teaching at the University in 2000. After numerous projects together, with the most recent being the Tennessee Williams festival this past September, the pair grew very close and their relationship changed from student and teacher to colleagues. Kretchik wants people to remember who Lommel was and what a huge role she had at the University. “Anne was in a very strange place because she was doing three people’s job[s]…I want people to remember she was a really talented woman who cared for the students as much as her design,” Kretchik said. Due to her work in both the acting and theater departments, Lommel had a huge student base. Over the four years that performing arts students devote to the University, students got to spend a great deal of time with Lommel and developed very personal relationships. Freshman Danny Hammond, who works in the University’s costume shop, recounts how often people would just stop by to visit and chat with Lommel. “People would just walk in out of habit just to say hey… She always put others first, always,” Hammond said. Kretchik also commented on Lommel’s open door policy. One of the things he will miss most about Lommel is stopping by to talk about everything. Lommel would drop everything just to talk and listen to anyone who wanted. Lommel was not simply a friend to all, she was also an amazing designer and her work was something to be admired. She was responsible for costuming anywhere from eight to 10 shows a year, both within and outside of the University. Her work was known to be impeccable and she would tailor them to the students wearing them. In her work at a theater in the East Village, she mentored blossoming designers, openly giving them tips and advice. University alumnus James Bedell worked with Lommel on multiple projects as a lighting technician. “Her creativity was only equaled by her passion for theatrical design and her willingness to do whatever it took to get the job done. Equally skilled at the sketch pad and with a Hudson sprayer, Anne was the consummate theatrical professional and the theater will sorely miss her passion, her creativity and her art,” Bedell wrote on his website. In honor of her role in the University, students have created a memorial with flowers and notes outside of the costume shop on the 10th floor of 41 Park Row. The memorial is just one way people are choosing to honor Lommel’s memory. The recent “La Mama” show series at the University was dedicated to Lommel. Since her passing, students and faculty have been posting to her Facebook where they have been sharing stories and memories of Lommel with her friends and family. Lommel had an obvious impact on the University and its students. Before her passing, she was working to develop a new BFA program and she had begun work on costuming the University’s Dance Out Loud performance this upcoming spring. Since her passing she has inspired numerous Facebook groups, blog posts and more, all to honor her memory. Her loss is surely a great one that has had an impact not only on the performing arts department, but the University as a whole.

Please view pages 6-7 for Anne Lommel memorial page

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February 23, 2012

NEWS BRIEFS N.J. Governor vetoes gay marriage bill New Jersey Governor Chris Christie vetoed the Gay Marriage bill on Feb. 17. Earlier in the week the bill passed in both the Senate and State Assembly. After Gov. Christie vetoed the bill, he returned it to the Legislature and maintained his opinion that the bill should be up for referendum in which the public decides on the issue. Democratic supporters of the bill are attempting to override the veto and have until the end of the Legislative session in Jan. 2014. Both the Senate and the State Assembly need two-thirds majority vote in order to successfully override Gov. Christie’s veto. After the veto, activist groups that oppose and support same-sex marriage publicly voiced their opinions. Some of them include LGBT organizations Freedom to Marry and the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) calling on support for bill’s passing. Gay marriage opponent group, the New Jersey Family Policy Council, praised Gov. Christie’s actions on rejection of the bill.

Obama maintains stance on higher education

President Barack Obama is keeping college tuition as one of his top priorities as mentioned in his State of the Union Address. The Obama Administration is seeking to find out how much is allocated to colleges across the U.S. There are bills that are being drafted for colleges and universities. Contingent upon Congressional passing, Pres. Obama plans for a minor reduction in federal aid for colleges that do not control tuition costs and shift it to other institutions that do. He will also propose to allocate $8 billion towards a program for community college students to prepare for high-growth industries providing incentives for them to find jobs afterword. Along with keeping track of national colleges and universities, the Obama Administration also plans to develop a “scorecard” and “shopping sheet.” The scorecard will be used to compare college statistics and graduation rates. The shopping sheet will include estimates for prospective students on how much debt they will acquire and estimate payments on student loans after graduation.

FDA investigates safety of breathable food

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is launching an investigation on the caffeinated inhalant dietary supplement known as AeroShot. AeroShot recently went on the market in Massachusetts and New York. It is a contained in a small cylinder container with powder inside and its intake is performed through inhalation. The powder’s ingredients contain B-Vitamins with 100-milligrams of caffeine equivalent to the amount of caffeine in a large cup of coffee. Prior to public distribution, investigation was not launched because it was classified as a dietary supplement under FDA regulation. It was also widely marketed to the college community such as the University for promotion before its release. The result of the investigation was in largely due to New York State Senator Chuck Schumer who met with FDA Commissioner Dr. Margaret Hamburg and expressed his concern of product; leading to a current review of its safety and legality.

GOP candidates utilize Super PACs for frontrunner positions

The Republican Primary presidential candidates have utilized the Super Political Action Committee (PACs) throughout the primary presidential election. This is the first presidential election in which Super PACs are in practice. Whoever wins the Republican nomination will use them during the general election. Super PACs have donated vast and continuous amounts of campaign money towards each respective candidate from corporations or wealthy people. Two GOP candidates who have seen success with Super PACs are former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney and former Speaker of the House of Representatives Newt Gringrich. With the support of the organization Restore Our Future, donating approximately $6.5 million to Romney’s campaign, he maintained his status as a viable candidate for the general election. Gingrich’s support group called Winning Our Future donated approximately $2.4 million. The money was used to help promotional mediums such as T.V. ads for each campaign and victories in certain states.

Twitter announces new censorship policy Twitter announced on its company’s website on Jan. 26 that it would begin implementing new censorship capabilities. In order to better address requests from foreign governments and law enforcement agencies looking to block access to certain tweets or usernames, the censorship tools immediately drew criticism from Twitter users who perceived the new tools as a stance on free speech and an open Internet. In their blog post, the company rationalized the need for the censorship tools, explaining, “As we continue to grow internationally, we will enter countries that have different ideas about the contours of freedom and expression. Some differ so much from our ideas that we will not be able to exist there.” The blocked content will be marked so users can see that something is missing. It will show up as a blank block bearing an advisory that reads, “Tweet withheld,” or in the case of a blocked user account, “@Username withheld.” The announcement from Twitter comes amid the FBI’s renewed search for software that can sift through social media data. According to The Chicago Sun-Times, “Hundreds of intelligence analysts already sift overseas Twitter and Facebook posts….But in a formal ‘request for information’ from potential contractors, the FBI recently outlined its desire for a digital tool to scan the entire universe of social media—more data than humans could ever crunch.”

As activists and protestors across the globe turn to online social media tools for easy communication, questions about intrusive governments are raised. A year ago, protestors and activists trying to enact change within their countries made use of social media to communicate and organize protests in Tunisia, Libya and Egypt, resulting in the resignation of former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak. Without the use of social networks like Twitter and Facebook, the protests would arguably not have had as big of a turn out and overall effect. “I think they’re over-stepping their boundaries,” freshman Shannon Persia said about Twitter’s new censorship policy. “I mean I guess it makes it a little…better, but at the same time [it’s not enough] to say why [it wasn’t posted] rather than post it. [Twitter] doesn’t necessarily have to agree with that [content],” Persia added. “Twitter is probably trying to prevent the same kind of probes that Google and Facebook have been facing by a variety of governments internationally….Social media companies are being forced more and more to comply with local legislation and are facing greater censorship. Twitter is being proactive,” Information Technology Professor Darren Hayes said in the article “Twitter’s Clever Censorship Policy.” In the age where governments from all around the world seek to block certain content, the identification of who is behind the blocking may in some cases actually prove to be more valuable than the actual content blocked.

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NEWS

February 23, 2012

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University wins Best Short Award of Merit for student-made documentary JULIA YEUNG Staff Writer The short documentary made by University students, Linda Thornton: Seeking Sustainability One Shrimp at a Time, was recently awarded the Best Short Award of Merit, which recognizes the work of short filmmakers worldwide. The documentary was filmed during PLV Campus Media and Communication Arts Professor Dr. Maria Luskay’s course “Producing the Documentary,” offered to both University undergraduate and graduate students last year. The documentary explores the life and work of aquaculture entrepreneur Linda Thornton, who helped shape the standards of sustainable shrimp farming in Belize, a country located on the Caribbean coast of Central America between Mexico and Guatemala. “12 students registered for the class and I worked with a travel agent to develop a timeline and location for each shoot based on the location of the four shrimp farms in Belize. Approvals were granted from various farm owners and we were given access to shoot in Placencia, Independence and other locations throughout the area,” Prof. Luskay said. “In the summer and fall of the previous semester, I met with Andrew Revkin of the NY Times to discuss issues that had an environmental impact and that should be explored in a documentary. After much research and exploration, we contacted the World Wildlife Fund and were put in touch with Linda Thornton,” Prof. Luskay said. Thornton began working at Aqua Mar in 1996 and has since been an advocate in helping to develop environmentally sustainable production. Aqua Mar is one of the largest shrimp farms in Belize that Thornton manages. Aqua Mar is over 1,000 acres and has 90 ponds, raising shrimps from eggs to full-grown. Shrimp farming has raised concerns because of the affects it has on the environment as well as its use for human consumption. Thornton worked with environmentalist Tim Smith, who collected data to show a shrimp farm’s impact on a lagoon and together they worked with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to figure out ways to create a more environmentally sustainable production. It was found that the quality of the shrimp and the impact it had on the environment depended on three things: managing what the shrimp eat, what waste was produced and the condition of the water they lived in. By learning how to manage their feed, they would be able to decrease the amount of leftover nutrients in the affluent water. Through experience and with Smith’s help, Thornton found that some of the same practices that could limit disease also limit pollution. Through learning how to develop the bacteria system in the pond, it was found that the good bacteria breaks down all of the waste created by the feed in the pond and can also serve as the feed for the shrimp as well. The breakdown of waste would allow the water in the ponds to be reused many times. Although it is an expensive system to set up, Thornton hopes that all agricultural systems will be able to have this in the future. In Belize, there are no antibiotics or chemicals used in their shrimp, and by managing the shrimp properly the farms would not be susceptible to disease. Thornton’s work and dedication has led her to become one of the biggest promoters of sustainable aquaculture in Central America, with Aqua Mar as one of the most environmentally sustainable shrimp farms in Belize. Thornton continues to help advocate for the sustainable aquaculture and was one of 55 people last April to contribute to the Shrimp Aquaculture Dialogue, a group developed by the WWF to develop standards for shrimp farming that has a minimal impact on the environment and society. Thornton is also volunteering as a producer to be a part of the Steering Committee for the Central America and Mexico chapter. As part of the committee she will help guide the development of standards for responsible shrimp farming. When asked what students learned from the documentary, Prof. Luskay said, “Students in the course gained knowledge of the shrimp farming industry as well as the understanding of how a documentary begins with an idea that is conceived from nothing of nothing and developed into a visual story. They also learned the process, both positive and negative, and found out experientially how a film is produced on location.”

To view Linda Thornton: Seeking Sustainability One Shrimp at a Time please visit: Youtube.com/marialuskay Or by scanning the code:

NEWS

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February 23, 2012

City Council Speaker Christine Quinn wants mandatory kindergarten for city children SARAH AIRES News Intern NYC Council Speaker Christine Quinn delivered her State of the City address on Feb. 9. She focused on moving up the age for compulsory education from first grade to kindergarten and her plans to propose a “mandatory kindergarten” legislation that would require approval from Albany, N.Y. Speaker Quinn said she would advocate for mandatory kindergarten for every five-year-old in NYC. Up until this point, compulsory schooling began in first grade. According to The Wall Street Journal, nearly 3,000 children of kindergarten age were not enrolled in school last year. Those students had no formal education until they were enrolled in first grade, putting them at a possible disadvantage from their classmates. “Let’s get serious about early childhood education, and require every 5-year-old to enroll in kindergarten, and make sure the DOE [Department of Education] is prepared and willing to take them,” Speaker Quinn stated in her speech. Despite Speaker Quinn’s stance on the matter of kindergarten education, Mayor Michael Bloomberg is skeptical about her proposal—especially because of the costs the new bill could pose for the city. On his radio show, Mayor Bloomberg announced that he and his administration estimated the cost of instituting mandatory kindergarten at $30 million—a claim Speaker Quinn’s office refutes. The Speaker’s office argued that immersing the 3,000 children of kindergarten age into the current system is completely feasible and therefore does not require the high costs Mayor Bloomberg claims. “I wouldn’t mind kindergarten becoming mandatory.

City Council Speaker Christine Quinn making her State of the City speech. However, I remember when I was in kindergarten and we barely did much. If kindergarten becomes mandatory, they should make the programs more productive. Also, I hear the prices for kindergarten are astronomical nowadays. They should make it more affordable if they are planning to make it mandatory,” sophomore Dana Cavalieri said. The debate over the importance of kindergarten education has been present in recent politics surrounding education. According to a study by researchers at the University of Southern California and the University of Texas at Austin, young kindergarten students are more likely to go on to earn a Bachelor’s degree and on average

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earn more in the work force than those who start school later. “I think not having mandatory kindergarten would be a problem for teachers because some students went to kindergarten and some didn’t so they aren’t teaching kids on the same playing field,” sophomore Zoe Kulina said. Mandatory kindergarten education may worsen the city’s school crowding issues. Even though some agree with Speaker Quinn’s proposal, including NYC Comptroller John Liu, it is up to the state to determine whether they will mandate the kindergarten age enrollment.

The State Liquor Authority launches interactive bar map for locals RUVEENA ROSSITTO Staff Writer

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The State Liquor Authority (SLA) is launching an interactive map that plots every licensed bar in the city. The agency already showed the program to local community boards and did a large demonstration session on Jan. 31 to teach them how to use the tool. The map is expected to be launched by the end of February. The map, which features a scroll and zoom, will allow users to focus on bars through clickable icons that open to display important information such as licensing details and disciplinary histories. The $75,000 project is being funded by a special budget appropriation dedicated to investments in information technology. The creators of the map say the designs came from neighborhood complaints of rowdy bars and loud drunk people, but with the map also plotting schools, one can argue that the SLA’s hidden incentive is to stop underage drinking. Recently, community boards across Manhattan have been cracking down on bars due to these complaints by forcing them to close earlier and keep the rowdiness down. The map will not only give those with complaints a voice, but also gives bar hoppers the opportunity to avoid disappointment. Many information sources are unreliable—bar names can be misspelled and even registered as open when they have long since shut down. The SLA map hopes to prevent this by updating information daily and even providing additional information that was previously available only through phone calls and information law requests. This additional information includes nearby churches and schools. Concerned members of the community may suspect that some bar goers are underage teenagers with fake IDs and with the SLA map they can register complaints easily. “It’s definitely a plot. Neighbors can say, ‘Hey, that girl looks 15! What is she doing at that bar with that 20-year-old?’ and immediately make a complaint,” sophomore Brandon Benjamin Santiago said. Bars that are notorious for not checking IDs can be caught even quicker. “It will accelerate underage drinking because if these teenagers can no longer get into these bars, they’ll just find a way to get their alcohol another way, possibly in even more dangerous environments. It definitely has a negative connotation,” junior Kevin Eng said. However, SLA has setbacks hindering their upcoming launch. SLA Deputy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Michael Jones admitted that the SLA is short staffed, with only six investigators to supervise thousands of bars, clubs and restaurants in the city alone, not to mention other counties and may have problems regulating all of New York State’s nightlife effectively.

February 23, 2012

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OPINION AND EDITORIALS DISCLAIMER: These opinions are expressed by contributors (students, faculty, administration and staff) to The Pace Press. These opinions are solely those of the individual writers and do not reflect the opinions of The Pace Press, the members of The Pace Press staff or Pace University. The Pace Press is not responsible and expressly disclaims all liability for damages of any kind of arising out of use or relevance to any information contained in this section.

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BETHANY O’GRADY | CONTRIBUTOR

Understanding the gray area of sexual harassment between professors and students On Feb. 6, Dr. Harold Brown, the chair of the philosophy and religious studies department, moderated a symposium discussing the issue of “fraternization” between students and professors in the University. The symposium attempted to initiate discourse on the inclusion of a policy that prevents “amorous” relationships from occurring between students and professors. At this time, the University’s handbook does not include a policy that bars said relationships. At the symposium, Dr. Brown assembled a panel of three faculty members and two former students and asked them individually if they felt a policy should be implemented in the handbook to ban “amorous” relationships from happening between staff and students. Each member said such a policy should be put in place. First of all, I don’t believe the term “fraternization” is the appropriate term to use in addressing the existence of sexual relationships between staff and students at the University. When a student fosters an exceptional working rapport with their professor, it can be beneficial to their academic pursuits, and also viewed as “fraternization.” This is very different from having sexual intercourse with a professor, which I would view as, well, “having sexual intercourse with a professor,” not “fraternization.” Still, I solidly side with the panel on this issue. A professor’s function is to teach students in their prospective fields of academic interest and we, as students, should not be made to feel as though our professors may evaluate us for anything other than our academic merit. Instructors exist in a role of power in relation to their students and I believe that if an “amorous” relationship were to develop between an undergraduate student and their instructor, the “rapport” between the pair would be significantly damaging to each student or faculty member that came in contact with them. Hypothetically, if it came to my attention that a student in one of my courses was engaging in sexual relations with our professor, I would feel a great deal of discomfort. I would ask myself: is the professor grading their “lover” fairly? Are they grading me fairly? Am I at risk of the professor making sexual advances on me? Is the professor teaching the course to their fullest ability or are they distracted by the presence of their “amorous” partner in the room? Moreover, one of the panel members raised the point that in other professional fields, persons in power are forbidden to engage in similar relationships, as in the dynamic between doctors and their patients. It does not seem illogical to me that the University would follow suit and forbid professors and stu-

dents from “amorous relationships,” as well. Still, Dr. Brown and another professor, Dr. Demos Anthanasopoulos of the Forensic Science Department, were strongly against an outright ban of amorous relationships. Dr. Brown provided the example of kissing and embracing a student he hadn’t seen in a while and Dr. Anthanasopoulos claimed that such a policy would stifle his sexuality and would impose religious ideals on the University. What these men voiced at the symposium was baffling, to say the least. Is kissing a student of such value to Dr. Brown that he would forsake a policy that may prevent other students from being kissed by a professor whom they did not want to make physical contact with? And to the professor who felt his sexuality would be curtailed by the policy: May I kindly redirect him to Match.com or any other number of platforms in which to seek physical relationships with individuals who are not under your or any of your colleagues’ instruction? While I am pleased that the University has taken the initiative to resolve the issue of “fraternization” between their employees and their clients, I believe the colloquium was merely a starting point for the dialogue that must be had in order to erect a full proof policy to protect students and staff from falling victim to sexual harassment. A policy that bans “amorous” relationships of this sort is a step I feel the University should take confidently, but I also perceive there to be a necessity that we, as a community, discuss the “gray area” of insidious behavior on some of our professors’ parts. I believe the anonymous student group at the University, Students Against the Pacetriarchy (operating from the email address studentsagainsthepacetriarchy@gmail.com), that has continually addressed the perverse culture of sexual harassment would agree with me. They have asked faculty members to cease behavior of said nature; pointing to the “gray area” (professors sending inappropriate text messages to students, commenting on their physical appearance, discussing topics of a sexual nature with their students, etc.) as the real problem. They have also encouraged professors who are aware of sexual harassment occurring in their prospective departments to stop being complicit towards their colleagues’ unethical and frankly, gross conduct. Until the University puts a policy that will properly protect students in place, I will encourage students who have been subjected to sexual harassment, even if it’s what might be perceived as the “gray area” kind, to speak with Lisa Myles of Affirmative Action (amyles@pace.edu) about their experiences.

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February 23, 2012

ARTS

Costuming by Anne Lommel “She was a boss and knew how to work hard, she was one of the hardest working women I have ever met. But on top of being a boss she was a friend, a confidant and an extreme talent. She would always be willing to talk about anything and offer her best advice. Almost everyday a plethora of students would stop in to talk with her about the shop or life in general… I learned so much from her, not just in the costume world either. Everyone is have a really hard time with losing her. She was such a force here at Pace… Pace was where all of her time went. She put her heart and soul into what went on stage. I’m sad for the future generations at Pace that will never get to know her and how powerful her personality was. Losing Anne is a tremendous loss.” — Aubree Mullally

“Anne Lommel was a consummate professional, professor and friend. She used her immense creativity as a designer to provide the best wardrobe possible to suit the needs of the production, director’s vision, and the audience’s expectations. As a professor she took more pride in sitting and teaching and making sure the material was completely understood and took a personal interest in her student’s progress. I was fortunate enough to get close to Anne and she was always a person to visit and be around. Anne gave Pace and her students all she had and she leaves behind a hole that will never be filled.” — Kevin P. Joyce Anne Lommel’s costume designs for University’s production of A Christmas Carol.

All photos courtesy of Aubree Mullally

February 23, 2012

Anne Lommel

ARTS

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A memorial located on the 10th floor of 41 Park Row

“What a legacy Anne has left in all of us, as her students! We all have a little bit of wisdom from her that we’ve picked up to help us in our crazy life plans to create theater. I will never forget what she has taught me. It was such an honor to work with and learn from Anne. I’ll take everything she taught me and bring it somewhere and do something with it—we all will. She’s part of our Pace family and always will be.” — Lisa Klages

“I walked into Anne Lommel’s costume shop one day and was immediately hit by a sound. She was listening to the most brilliant classical music, the kind that just reaches at your soul and never lets go. I looked around and the shop was empty, with the exception of Anne, in her back-left corner. She was sewing. And there was just something about the work she was doing – the time and effort she was putting into our costumes -- each seam, each stitch, and the inviting temple she had built where she was constantly creating art for us, never turning a student away. That image has always stayed with me and has inspired me beyond words. It can be rare to meet an artist who truly puts others first. With Anne, there was never a doubt in my mind that she saw each and every one of us as beautiful, impressionable young artists -- the key to tolerance and change, and she never underestimated or took us for granted. I can’t think of a more selfless woman, and as much as I’ve learned from her, that is what Anne Lommel has taught me: to work hard, inspire, love, laugh, and to just throw your hands in the air and do the work that has to be done to make a difference. After all, that is our duty as artists, as catalysts for tomorrow. I thank you, Anne, for teaching me that so young. You were one heck of a teacher, and one hell of a gal.” — Colton Childs All photos by Stephanie Hansen | The Pace Press

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ARTS

February 23, 2012

OK Go is still going strong despite recent Grammy loss

selectaticket.com OLIVIA BETETA Arts Intern Chicago natives OK Go are no strangers to the Grammy Awards. In fact, the power pop alternative quartet won the Grammy for Best Short Form Music Video in 2007 for their song “Here It Goes Again.” This year, the band was nominated for the second time in the same category for their video for “All Is Not Lost,” but lost to Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep.” The group paired with Connecticut based dance group Pilobolus to create a human kaleidoscope for the video. The loss was just a minor bump in the road for the band, but other than losing a Grammy, they have been having a phenomenal year. The band was featured on an episode of “Sesame Street” on Feb. 2 where they premiered their video for the song “Three Primary Colors.” During the Super Bowl on Feb. 5, their newest video, a partnership with Chevy titled “Needing/Getting.” The video featured the foursome driving a supped-

up Chevy Sonic while playing 288 guitars, 55 pianos and 1,157 homemade instruments. The band released their first self-titled album in 2002 to high critical acclaim in the United Kingdom, but it wasn’t until the release of their famous treadmill dancing video “Here It Goes Again” in 2006 that they were recognized internationally. The video received over one million views within the first six days on YouTube. The video was renowned for its unique qualities and the band owes a lot their popularity to it. The group has subsequently tried to repeat the success of “Here It Goes Again” and the videos following do not fail to deliver. Adjunct Professor of Rock Music and Contemporary Culture Paul Guzzone, has in past years looked at the band’s style and discussed the changes the band has made to music videos today. Guzzone had the chance to work with the band this past January at an international computer tech conference for IBM, with the conference having a “working social” theme. Social Media masterminds OK Go were an obvious choice to perform. “OK Go have taken the DIY concept in video and marketing in the internet age to a new level. They know that in order for a band to be successful they need to harness the power of the net [YouTube, etc.] social media [Twitter, FB, etc.] and old media like T.V.. In order to do that you must, must stand out from the gazillion other acts and flash on the web sensations. “They’ve succeeded in doing this by being true to who they are. While guitarists Damian and Andy have rock star good looks, their bass player Tim has a quirky look and their drummer Dan a clown-like personality. They accept and exploit who they are in a very honest way. I think that comes through in the videos,” Prof. Guzzone said. While the band’s videos have always been popular with fans, they have not always had the backing of their label. In March 2010, the band split with EMI and Capitol Records to create their own label Paracadute Recordings. It is only through their media savvy they were able to partner with big name companies to flesh out their vision. Such as with the video for “Here It Goes Again,” the video was actually paid for by the insurance company State Farm. The videos are often more of a conceptual piece and rarely match the lyrics yet they are strangely alluring and capture the audience’s attention. “The song is almost secondary. It’s the video concept that draws you in. Also, the videos for ‘Here It Goes Again’ and ‘This Too Shall Pass’ are a kind of a throwback to the one camera, one take era. No SFX [special effects]. No editing. Which is very impressive. They actually did the dancing and the blocking in real time. It took them three months to design and build the Rube Goldberg Machine at the heart of ‘This Too Shall Pass’ and it took two full days of shooting before they nailed it. That’s real focus!” Prof. Guzzone said. The band habitually shatters the social norms for what a music video is supposed to be. Instead of the egocentric videos of Lady Gaga and Katy Perry, OK Go’s videos focus on live performance and according to Guzzone, “The result is very engaging in an honest, deeply human way.” Regardless of what lies in the future for the band, they have managed to carve a name for themselves with their music. OK Go has built a loyal following through their videos and music. They may no longer be on a major record label, but nothing seems to be stopping them anytime soon.

Non-musical movies transition onto the Broadway stage

Ghost, Silence of the Lambs and The Notebook are becoming musicals on Broadway DAMIEN MORGAN Arts Intern Movies bring everyone countless hours of entertainment, from dramatic tales to horrific experiences; there is always a film for someone to watch. It seems lately that the trend in the U.S. is turning these movies into musical projects. Some feel that it is ruining the original story while others believe it’s only enhancing them. Within this day and age, if anyone was to turn on a T.V. during prime time, they will most likely find a show like “American Idol,” “Glee” or “The Voice.” It shows that the public is very interested in singing, so it’s no surprise that this display of art is being applied to famous movies. With many going to Broadway, unusual movies that normally wouldn’t be paired with music are getting a twist, such as Spider-Man, Ghost, Silence of the Lambs and even The Notebook. Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark officially opened on Broadway in 2011. The musical had a rough start when the show first came out but eventually became a display that had crowds pouring in. With a rich background, from a long lasting comic book series to three films, this series was certainly new to the stage. This seems to be the reason for making this particular chain of films into

a play, because a superhero has not yet been seen on Broadway. Spider-Man might have been the chosen hero though because in the storyline the protagonist resides in NYC. A more predictable film that’s come to the light of the stage would be the ’90s romantic film Ghost. Love story lines are usually a guaranteed pleasure for most audiences, so when looking for a new play, this film seems perfect. When comparing scenes from the play to the original movie, the story line seems to be the same but the overall look of the performance doesn’t seem to match. Given that the film was shot more than 20 years ago, it has become an idol and very memorable of that time. Sophomore Bobby Marvin stated why he thought films were being redone as musicals. “[It was] probably to get a broader audience so that they [the producers] can make more money,” Marvin said. Then to reach out to a completely different audience one producer might change the genre of the movie completely. With the newly released Broadway production of Silence of the Lambs, called Silence! people are shown a comedy based off of horrific drama. This psychological thriller is about a cop trying to track down a murder that’s abducted multiple people, with help of an imprisoned convict. The musical comedy

version of this film is a completely different production than the movie, but it does indeed reach to a particular group of people that would not normally watch the original movie. Just like these films turned into stage performances, there are many more movies that have leaked to be coming out in the future. The next big movie that’s been announced for adaptation is the widely popular Nicholas Sparks book and movie The Notebook. Appearing on CBS’ “The Early Show,” Sparks talked about how his famous love story will be turned into a Broadway musical. After this announcement, there has been talk about an Austin Powers and Rocky musical remakes. It would be a big stretch for these widely different productions to be turned into musicals. If these two films came to the Broadway it would indeed bring a different kind of audience to Broadway. There appears to be such a big demand for these plays that derive from movies. Whether it’s a superhero film or a hopelessly romantic one, anything seems to be able to be turned into musicals these days. It is certain that the new versions of movies will touch many people that never would’ve thought about the originals in the first place.

ARTS

February 23, 2012

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Professor Linda Herritt takes over the University gallery

“Brushstrokes Like the Wrinkles on a Devil’s Face”

“Ruins (bands in Brooklyn)”

DAMIEN MORGAN Arts Intern When looking into the right college, many people usually see the University primarily as a business school, but with closer examination it can also be considered a fulfilling college for the arts as well. The University has an arts program that may seem small compared to most other NYC art institutes, but where it lacks in certain areas, it makes up for in professors. The art professors that teach here at the University all have very enriching backgrounds that can be imbued into their students. One professor that stands out is Linda Herritt, who teaches painting, sculpture and project studio. Currently, she has her own gallery exhibition “Brushstrokes Like the Wrinkles on a Devil’s Face,” located in the Fingesten Gallery at the University. With a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Montana and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Ohio State, Prof. Herritt has been featured all across the country for her multiple one person exhibitions and art related awards in PS122 Project Space Studio, Marie Walsh Sharpe Art Foundation, International Artist in Residence and many more. When asked what got her interested in art, Prof. Herritt expressed she wasn’t sure but knew that it was at a young age because she had always been interested in creative writing. Surprisingly she started college majoring in writing. Professor Herritt discussed what made her pursue a teaching career. She talked about how at the time she loved constructing big pieces of work. “Teaching provided me with an income to stay true to my ideals to keep making these big pieces so I wouldn’t have to sell them to make a living, but it reminds me of why art is important every time I teach a class,” Prof. Herritt said. Prof. Herritt then spoke about how she really loves to convey her enthusiasm and that of other artists onto her students and watch how each of them grow. She followed up with a trend that seems to be most popular with art professors is that after college she likes to see how her students grew up in life and how successful they’ve become. Prof. Herritt talked about her gallery that is currently stationed in the University and how she was inspired to do most of the gallery from a 17th century Chinese manual on Chinese painting and landscape painting. She had discovered the book by being one of the few faculty members chosen to go with the Confucius Institute to China. “The paintings are [an] ongoing series working with texts and 3D digital maps,” Prof. Herritt said. “It’s about brush strokes and related to things in the real world, like fringe and yarn,” Prof. Herritt added. As seen in multiple pieces in the gallery, drawn out text describes the conventional lexicon of brushwork that builds into a grid-based mountain. Each brushstroke type is identified by a metaphor, such as the lines on a devil’s face or horses’ teeth, which derived from the 17th century manual. Through the gallery, multiple pieces are placed on each wall, but one that stands out the most is “Brushstrokes like the Wrinkles on a Devil’s Face,” which is a piece that consumes the whole wall. Prof. Herritt spoke about how this was her favorite piece out of the show with good understanding as to why. At first look, this single piece looks as though it was painted onto the whole white wall, corner to corner, but at closer look it reveals that this art work is made of tiny nails holding fringe to the wall along with materials like burlap. Standing out amongst the other pieces this piece really references graffiti or a retro ’60s rock band poster, in which Prof. Herritt said were some of her influences. Through this gallery based off of brushstroke ideals, anyone can see what kind of knowledge and power the University art professors have to offer. To get a feel just take a trip over to the B-Level in One Pace Plaza and see the exhilarating exhibit that’s open to the public till March 3.

“Study for Brushstrokes 1”

“Study for Brushstrokes 2”

All pieces by Linda Herritt All photos by Damien Morgan | The Pace Press

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February 23, 2012

University dining hall aims to cater to vegetarian students’ lifestyles

themedifastplan.com SHANNON MCMAHON Staff Writer

There are many people who have made the conscious decision to focus on strict eating habits that do not include meat and surprisingly amongst them are college students. Whether it’s because of health benefits or personal beliefs, vegetarianism is no rare occurrence today and that countless students dedicate towards their lifestyles. “I’ve been a vegetarian all of my life and I’ve never eaten meat. I’m a vegetarian because my religion requires me to be one. I don’t complain, it’s a healthy lifestyle,”

freshman Niyati Sangani said. Freshman Radhika Doshi also grew up a vegetarian partly because of religion. “I’ve been a vegetarian all my life. I’m a vegetarian because I grew up being one. It’s partly because of my Hindu religion, and partly my choice. I choose not to eat meat because of the things I read and see. It’s hard but I’d never start eating meat,” Doshi said. For others, however, it’s not as easy to completely give up meat. Freshman Cameron Drayton is a vegetarian but still includes some type of meat in her diet from time

to time. “I eat a lot of greens and chicken maybe once every two weeks. I only eat chicken because it gives me my protein. I feel like I don’t want to eat any red meat so I just stick to chicken. It’s not necessarily about animal cruelty. It’s mostly about health reasons, and I eat what I want. I don’t really like any other meat. It started being about health reasons, but now I can’t imagine eating any other meat besides chicken,” Drayton said. Some students believe that the University doesn’t provide them with viable options for their diet. “I don’t think the café provides enough vegetarian options, I get the same thing like twice a week and it limits my taste. I usually get a sandwich or pasta or a quesadilla or a burrito bowl at the café,” freshman Nisha Chaudhari said. “I feel the café does not have enough vegetarian options at all. All they have really is grilled cheese, quesadillas, salad, veggie burgers, pasta and pizza. I know that stuff is good but we can’t eat it all the time and sometimes they cook the vegetarian stuff in the same oil as the meat stuff so I know myself personally, I can’t eat that, but I’m not sure how others feel on the matter,” Sangani said. Chartwells, the University’s dining halls food provider, guarantees that they are always expanding options and working towards satisfying students with a variety of different eating habits. The company focuses strictly on serving students based on what they prefer and if they have a suggestion, they are welcome to give their input. The introduction of Flex Dollars also provides vegetarian students with offcampus food options like Subway and Chipotle. Whether individuals would like to improve their health, take a stand against the consumption of meat or simply reduce their intake of meat products, vegetarianism is a lifestyle that is continuously growing throughout the world and it’s making changes and an impact right here at the University.

Unpaid internships under fire after potential Harper’s Bazaar lawsuit NICOLE MORALES Features Intern An abundance of internship opportunities are offered within arm’s reach in NYC in any industry from entertainment to business. However, the problem for many students is not the lack of opportunity, but the lack of paid internship opportunities. Companies like cable providers and magazines are often some of the most coveted jobs. With interns breaking down the door just for the chance to work with the company of their dreams, there seems no need to pay interns anymore. This practice has been going on for years but one intern is seeking to change the vicious cycle of nonpaid interns. From August to December 2011, Xuedan Wang served as an intern at Harper’s Bazaar. Wang worked within the company’s accessories department, easily putting in over 40 hours a week unpaid. Although the internship was the opportunity of a lifetime, Wang felt that her input was worthy of at least minimum wage. She stated that she was not the only intern there and that in fact, the prestigious magazine relied on a slew of interns as a “crucial labor force.” Although the lawsuit has not be legally served to Hearst, the current paperwork states that, “Unpaid interns are becoming the modern-day equivalent of entry-level employees, except that employers are not paying them for the many hours they work….Employers’ failure to compensate interns for their work, and the prevalence of the practice nationwide, curtails opportunities for employment, fosters class divisions between those who can afford to work for no wage and those who cannot, and indirectly contributes to rising unemployment.” Although the terms of the lawsuit may seem logical,

Wang’s agreement with Hearst has not been released. According to Hearst, they offered college credit for the time Wang put into the company. The compensation of college credit for work is common amongst internships so employers can count on interns to be truly responsible and dedicated to their positions. At times, college credit is simply not enough for interns. With the challenging economy, it’s difficult to survive when one is working unpaid with the only compensation being the impressive experience on one’s resume. This pending lawsuit will be challenging an ageold practice within corporate industries. “The trend towards unpaid internships was quite developed long before the most recent financial crisis and recession,” Economics Professor Mark Weinstock said. However, Prof. Weinstock disagrees with Wang’s claim that unpaid internships pose as a negative obstacle for students. “This trend has been overwhelmingly positive for college students as it has given them the opportunity to ‘get inside’ a firm to learn about the corporate culture, obtain valuable skills needed for success in their field, and participate in business networking. Without these unpaid internships, their starting salaries after graduating from college would be thousands of dollars less due to their lower levels of human capital,” Prof. Weinstock said. “Since the interns are not being paid, they are not in the labor force and are not unemployed since they neither work nor are currently searching for paid work. Therefore, there is no effect on the unemployment rate,” Prof. Weinstock added. Although there is no direct effect to the unemployment rate, future interns may be negatively affected by Wang’s potential lawsuit. “If there is a great deal of media attention

about unpaid internships being exploitative to college students, the major impact will be fewer internships (paid and unpaid) and significantly lower starting salaries for college graduates,” Prof. Weinstock said. Sophomore Yennifer Buitrago agrees that it may negatively affect future interns. “If you are a student and a good company offers you an internship, just to have the experience you would risk the opportunity cost. I believe that she could [have said] yes or no to [the] extra work. The lawsuit might be bad [for] interns because [companies] will be scared to hire students,” Buitrago said. Although Wang’s claims seem to infer that interns are simply disposable labor force, it seems to be the opposite. As Prof. Weinstock stated, unpaid interns may seemingly be at a disadvantage now, however in the long run they will earn thousands of dollars more at a starting position than they would without the experience. “Our tracking data at Pace show[s] that more than one third of our students get full-time job offers after completion of their unpaid internships from the firms that they interned at. So their replacements are generally new interns who are also moving up the career ladder to very high paying jobs,” Prof. Weinstock said. While Wang’s potential internship lawsuit may not hold firm ground, it may indirectly shake up the way future internships operate. Unpaid interns may claim that the lack of monetary compensation creates a class wedge between who can and cannot afford to accept an offer. The fact of the matter is that it is simply the opportunity cost of what one decides to make of their future. “Getting a cup of coffee for a supervisor or making some copies seems a small price to pay for the opportunity,” Prof. Weinstock said.

February 23, 2012

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UNV 101 Courses aid in transition from high school Professors take different approaches in helping new students acclimate to the city NICOLE MORALES Features Intern It may be difficult to leave the warmth and familiarity of high school to begin a new chapter in one’s life. There are many new things to adapt to such as new environments, people, schedules and responsibilities. Although these are some of the lessons that are learned through firsthand experience, the University is doing its best to make sure students make a smooth transition into college life. All University students, with the exception of transfer students, are required to enroll in a University 101 (UNV 101) course during their freshman year. The course is meant to teach students the basics of navigating through the University as well as how to enroll for classes online and utilize the University online resource Blackboard. Professors, however, have the ability to personalize the course for their students as they see fit. Some professors opt for group activities while others prefer to make the most of the school’s location and utilize the surrounding areas as a learning tool. Communication Sciences and Disorders Professor Abbey Berg prefers to incorporate an unconventional teaching strategy, opting to show students around the Lower East Side rather than focus on assignments. “I do not have students complete ‘formal’ assignments although I try to incorporate tools (e.g. ePortfolio)

that they will be using and I feel are useful…I also conduct walking tours of various areas of NYC (e.g. Financial District, East Village, Chinatown) and then have them go out in groups to other areas (e.g. Tribeca, SoHo, Lower East Side, High Line and Chelsea, East and West Village) and report back on interesting facts regarding the area (boundaries, cheap eats, shopping, architecture, etc).” In addition to the exploratory portion of Prof. Berg’s class, she makes sure that students are aware of the University resources at their finger tips by bringing in representatives from the Tutoring Center, Career Services and Counseling Center to show students how to utilize the various resource outlets they have to offer. Most importantly, she gives lessons to ensure students know how to properly register for classes. Prof. Berg’s class structure is one of many found offered at the University. Some professors choose to omit the field experience aspect. In addition, UNV 101 courses utilize student peer leaders to help create a relatable environment for incoming students. These peer leaders are available during office hours for peer counseling and advice, as they too were freshmen the year before. “[University] freshmen students find the role of the peer leader to be very useful. The peer leader becomes someone that guides them through the new college environment,” sophomore peer leader Katherine Morales said.

The course although helpful, does not seem to benefit some students. “It was a waste of time. They didn’t teach me anything, honestly. They taught me how to schedule [classes]. They gave me workshops, but other than that it was a waste of time,” sophomore Kimberly Pizarro said. Prof. Berg feels the most beneficial lessons she teaches her UNV 101 students are, “How to communicate appropriately to professors, how to manage their time, avoid procrastinating, taking responsibility and staying safe; keeping healthy (e.g. hand washing, trying to get enough sleep, regular exercise, etc.); the importance of participating in activities outside of the classroom (e.g. Pace clubs, activities and lectures) and to think of NYC as part of their educational curriculum and networking and making connections from the beginning.” UNV 101 professors have multiple advantages with the University’s convenient Downtown location. City resources are a subway ride away, while school resources are readily available. Although some students may not have the advantage of an exciting three hour UNV 101 session each class, they are able to learn fundamentals of University life. College may be a hard transition for most students, so UNV 101 courses help smooth over the stresses of University life seamlessly into one’s everyday routine.

Knicks point guard Jeremy Lin sweeps the competition overnight OLIVIA BETETA Arts Intern The attention surrounding New York Knicks’ starting point guard Jeremy Lin seems to have sprung overnight, but Lin is nothing new to the team. Lin signed with the Knicks on Dec. 27 to be a backup to Knicks point guards Toney Douglas and Mike Bibby. Lin was previously a bench warmer for the Golden State Warriors after graduating with an economics degree from Harvard, even passing off the chance to play for higher paying teams. Unfortunately for Lin, his contract was waived and he moved on to signing with the Houston Rockets but the Rockets let him go before the 2011 season ever started. Lin was viewed as the last guy on the roster, a thirdstring point guard. While he got minimal playing time on the court, the team was still considering trading him. If it wasn’t for the Knicks’ Feb. 3 loss against the Boston Celtics, Lin might not have gotten his chance to play. During the Feb. 4 game against the New Jersey Nets, Lin was finally given the chance to prove himself, thanks to a little push by Knicks’ small forward Carmelo Anthony who suggested to Knicks’ coach Mike D’Antoni to let Lin play. Lin was played in the second half of the game and scored 25 points, five rebounds and seven assists, all of which led to a Knicks victory of 99 to 92. Following his success against the Nets, Lin had the opportunity to start against the Utah Jazz on Feb. 6. The game was his first career start and scored 28 points and had eight assists. Lin started again against the Washington Wizards on Feb. 8 where he scored 23 points and ten assists. The real surprise was when Lin started in a game against the Los Angeles Lakers. With 38 points and seven assists, he led the Knicks to a 92 to 85 win over the Lakers. Lin scored more points than Lakers shooting guard Kobe Bryant who scored 34 points. Once again on Feb. 11, Lin scored 20 points and had eight assists in a 100 to 98 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Then in the last seconds of the Feb. 14 game against the Toronto Rapids, Lin scored a winning three point shot. With the way he has been playing, it is no wonder

Lin is captivating the hearts of Knicks fans everywhere. Since his rise to fame he has been on the front pages of magazines and newspapers across the country, even on the cover of the Feb. 20 issue of Sports illustrated. “It’s nice to have New York Knicks basketball be exciting again. It brings attention…back to basketball for someone like me who doesn’t usually watch. It’s an awesome phenomenon but I don’t know how long it will last,” junior Steve Socci said. “… Jeremy Lin has brought a lot of positive publicity for New York. His sense of humor, his ability to play the game, has enabled the Knicks to be a better organization,” senior Domingo Rodriguez said. Lin is the first Asian-American to receive this level of attention in the NBA since former basketball Yao Ming. “Jeremy Lin is very simply good at what he does. Independent of his talent, his quick rise to fame shows us that mainstream American consciousness is finally ready to accept and embrace an Asian American presence which has unfortunately been ignored for most of this country’s history,” Associate English Professor Dr. Stephanie Hsu said. Due to his status as an Asian-American basketball player, there has been a fair amount of stereotyping surrounding Lin. Yet many credit Lin for helping to add a more diverse appearance to the basketball community. Recently, a headline on Espn.com regarding the Knicks’ first loss since Lin’s rise to fame read, “Chink in the Armor,” which was attributed to an editorial mistake. Many have criticized ESPN and other sports outlets for focusing on Lin’s race, as opposed to his skills. The issue even became the topic of a “Saturday Night Live” sketch. Regardless of his race, Lin is stirring up renewed interest in Madison Square Garden and has helped move the Knicks from their tenth place position in the eastern conference to their current eighth place spot. Lin’s popularity has also made his number 17 jersey sell out online and in stores. “He is the ultimate come-back story, he was passed around from team to team, acted like a bench warmer this whole season then out of nowhere he comes and saves the day. He deserves every single thing he’s gotten and I can’t wait to see what happens,” sophomore Efe Akins said.

Knicks fans shouldn’t get too comfortable with Lin because as of now he doesn’t have a permanent position on the team. Due to a salary cap, the Knicks may not be able to afford Lin if he should get a better offer from another team. If the Knicks choose to keep Lin, there is a good chance they won’t be able to afford another new player. Where ever Lin ends up it’s clear he’s already made a lasting impression on basketball history.

nydailynews.com N.Y. Knicks Jeremy Lin shows enthusiasm after a victory against the Wash. Wizards.

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February 23, 2012

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Businesses come out in favor of gay marriage across country ERICK MANCEBO Features Intern Comedian and television personality Ellen DeGeneres has once again found herself caught in the crossfire between anti and pro gay groups. Her business relationship with JCPenney was criticized by a group of anti-gay conservatives who promised to boycott the department store in protest. DeGeneres, who is openly gay, was hired by the faltering big box store as a part of the company’s renewed efforts to reinvigorate the brand. The group, called One Million Moms, posted a message on their Facebook page that read, “Funny that JCPenney thinks hiring an open homosexual spokesperson will help their business when most of their customers are traditional families….By jumping on the pro-gay bandwagon, JCPenney will lose customers with traditional values that have been faithful to them over all these years.” The criticism from One Million Moms however, drew outrage and sparked an online campaign in support of DeGeneres and JCPenney. In a show of solidarity with DeGeneres, two online bloggers organized a successful shop-in campaign on Feb. 12, using social media to mobilize supporters of DeGeneres and JCPenney. Together, the supporters shopped in JCPenney stores across the country as well as online at JCPenney. com. The controversy surrounding DeGeneres and the retailer’s business relationship underscores an ongoing discourse concerning companies taking stances on social issues. As the gay marriage bill passed in Washington state this month, computer giant Microsoft and coffee powerhouse Starbucks released statements in favor of marriage equality, citing its positive effect on businesses and state economies. In a post on Microsoft’s official blog, Microsoft’s Executive Vice President of Legal and Corporate Affairs Brad Smith wrote on behalf of the company, “We believe that passing this bill would be good for the state’s economy. ...In 1993, Microsoft became the first Fortune 500 company to provide same-sex domestic partnership benefits. For almost two decades, we’ve benefitted from this support and the resulting contributions of our LGBT employees.” According to Microsoft, whose headquarters is in Redmond, Wash., the legalization of same-sex marriage allows for Microsoft to have its pick of the best and brightest employees who would otherwise refrain from being involved with the company and location if it meant choosing between a job within the company and a job in a state that has legalized gay marriage. “As other states recognize marriage equality, Washington’s employers are at a disadvantage if we cannot offer a similar, inclusive environment to our talented employees, our top recruits and their families,” Smith wrote. “Marriage equality would put employers here on an equal footing with employers in the six other states that already recognize the committed relationships of same-sex couples. ...This in turn will help us to

compete for talent.” The University’s LGBTQA & Social Justice Center Coordinator Kelly Herbert thinks companies like Microsoft and Starbucks are right in their assessments. “Allowing equal opportunities and access to a broader range of people is always going to be good for the economy. It allows more people to engage in more aspects of our economy,” Herbert said. The business of gay marriage has been a long-standing debate within the business and marriage equality communities, with many marriage equality proponents using the vote of confidence from the business community to propel their message, forcing lawmakers in and outside of Washington to consider the effects of such changes. Some gay rights activists, however, argue that using an economically based argument in favor of gay marriage is in bad taste. Junior Stephanie Kozofsky agrees with this point of view. When asked if she thought the argument cheapened the overall argument for marriage equality, Kozofsky said, “I think that’s why I’m so unconvinced…by them saying that gay marriage is good for the economy, because I don’t think that should be an argument. ...I think that gay marriage is a right, and everyone deserves to marry whoever they want, so I don’t like people saying that ‘gay marriage is good for the economy,’ because then it’s kind of desensitizing the whole issue of ‘marriage is equality for everyone.’” Herbert disagreed however, stating, “Many arguments can be made for marriage equality, economic and business advantages are just some of them. ...Is it sad that arguments must be made to demonstrate that protecting LGBTQ individuals is valuable to the economy? Yes. ...But, LGBTQ individuals are currently facing inequities at a national and global level. “As an oppressed group we do not have the privilege to choose our battles. Thus, as a community we must find as many ways to be heard as we can. In a society in which money talks, maybe that is just another way to be heard. ...Think back to [the] historical Montgomery Bus Boycott [in the fight for civil rights]. These boycotts were a powerful… punch to the pockets,” Herbert said. Coming out in support of a gay personality has benefitted JCPenney. As a result of the controversy, JCPenney’s official Twitter account’s followers increased by 24 percent since the company announced its plans to keep DeGeneres as a spokesperson. Along with the online and in-store shop-in organized by supporters, many more have left comments and posts on the company’s Facebook and Twitter pages, promising their allegiance and future business. In any case, with the new angle brought forth by Microsoft, other companies and the businesses world are forging a change of perception. If gay marriage truly allows companies and state economies to thrive, it might be in the interest of politicians and lawmakers who previously opposed such bills to reconsider—restoring tanking state economies may be well worth the trade up for conservatives.