AUGUST 25, 2014
UMKC’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER
VOLUME 82, ISSUE 1
UNIONFEST WELCOMES FRESHMEN Several on-campus organizations welcomed freshmen Sunday with informational booths and free promotional items encouraging student involvement.
FOR MORE ON WELCOME WEEKEND SEE PAGE 3A
PHOTOS BY: TORY FOULK TOP RIGHT: Students drop pom poms in jars according to goals they wish to accomplish during the fall semester. TOP LEFT: Student Organizaton League of Legends Club. BOTTOM LEFT: Booth set up by UMKC’s Conservatory of Dance.
Hospital Hill Ferguson residents housing opens deal with aftermath to students of shooting MAL HARTIGAN SENIOR EDITOR
The University’s first residence hall on the Hospital Hill campus, a $30.33 million project modeled after Volker Campus’s Oak Place Apartments, recently finished construction and now houses its first residents for the fall 2014 semester. The new housing at 25th and Troost Avenue is funded by state bonds and Missouri state tax credits, and features one-, two- and four-bedroom units available for students, second-year and above. The residence hall aims to create convenient and affordable housing options for students in the schools of Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing and Health Studies, and houses up to 243 students. An adjacent parking structure available for residents features 196 spaces. The new housing structure has been erected based on students’ requests for more one-bedroom units, according to a September 2013 article by University News. Each resident’s rent includes fees for internet, cable
and all other utilities. Each floor plan includes a private bathroom for each resident, a full-size bed, a furnished living room that includes a couch, coffee table, bar stools and entertainment center, a kitchen with a refrigerator, dishwasher and oven and a washer and dryer. Common areas for residents include a courtyard, outdoor seating and grilling areas, a new fitness center available to both students and residents and a walkway that extends from the residence hall to the Hospital Hill campus. Residential areas are inaccessible to individuals who do not live in the building. The Hospital Hill residence hall is owned and operated by UMKC in order to maintain affordable rent prices for students. One-bedroom, two-bedroom and four-bedroom units average $974, $882 and $774 per month, respectively.
ALEX BISGES STAFF WRITER Michael Brown, an unarmed 18-year-old African-American male, was fatally shot by Officer Darren Wilson on Aug. 9 in Ferguson, Mo. According to The New York Times, Officer Wilson shot Brown at least six times – twice in the head and four times in the right arm. Witness Piaget Crenshaw said to The Los Angeles Times, “They shot him [Brown] and he fell. He put his arms up to let them know that he was compliant and he was unarmed, and they shot him twice more and he fell to the ground and died.” A woman identified as Josie by The Los Angeles Times reported that Officer Wilson shot Brown in self-defense. Josie said Wilson stopped Brown and Dorian Johnson for walking in the street. Wilson tried to get out of his car, but Brown pushed him back into the vehicle. Brown struggled for Wilson’s gun and the gun fired once.
“Michael just bum-rushes him, just shoves him back into his car, punches him in the face,” Josie said. “Brown and Johnson ran away from the car after the gun fired. All of a sudden he [Brown] … started to run at him full speed. He just kept coming; it was unbelievable.” Following this event, Ferguson has experienced heavy traffic from an influx of reporters, protesters and emergency relief. The suburb has also been subject to violence, rioting and looting. Parking lots for big businesses, such as Target, have become something of a base camp for journalists, police officers and news crews. The events following Brown’s death have come as a shock to some locals. “It was like any other neighborhood,” said Ferguson resident Donya Williams. “It was quiet because it’s an older community. Kids went out to play. I never felt unsafe or anything.” Williams also suggested media representations of the events have been inaccurate. “They’re making it to be that there is a bunch of violence in that area and normally there isn’t.
It’s typical kids – typical people going about everyday life,” Williams said. “They have made it a whole circus down there … I think that’s one of the reasons I refuse to look at the news because it’s just crazy.” Despite the suburb’s chaotic state, locals and businesses are attempting relief efforts. Restaurants serve free food and church members pass out Bibles and water while law enforcement works to restore order to the town. Brown’s death has prompted arguments of institutional racial inequality among individuals and mass media alike. The shooting has become a tale of systematic segregation and racial hierarchy in the U.S. For many protesters and activists, Brown and Johnson exist as political vessels for debate surrounding unresolved racial issues. “It’s not going to happen overnight,” Williams said. “The community and the police officers have to learn to communicate with each other. There needs to be a better relationship. It’s not something that’s going to be healed in a year from now. It’s just going to take some time.”
MONDAY AUGUST 25, 2014
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Kansas City citizens gather in peaceful protest in memory of Michael Brown JOEY HILL SENIOR STAFF WRITER Citizens gathered at J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain on Thursday, Aug. 14 to stage a peaceful protest in memory of Michael Brown, a young AfricanAmerican male shot by Ferguson police in St. Louis, Mo. More than 300 protestors held signs and stood near the streets, chanting “Hands Up! Don’t Shoot!” to passing traffic. Shortly after 7 p.m. the crowd gathered for a scheduled moment of silence in memory of Brown, as well as other victims of police brutality. Amber Stewart and Sarah Cole, rally organizers, addressed the crowd afterward. “It’s thanks to you all that we’re here today.” Stewart said. “Tonight we gather together to mourn, because without a chance to grieve, we lose the ability to heal, the ability to see past anger and gather together to focus on what it take to make meaningful change.” Cole called for citizens to “confront the structural issues that led to Michael Brown’s fateful last moments.” Cole said “the militarization of the police has led to numerous deaths and injuries,” and has advanced since Ronald Reagan’s War on Drugs allowed police departments to compete for federal funds. Cole quoted New York Times journalist Matt Apuzzo, saying that within the last 6 years police departments have acquired “thousands of machine guns, nearly 200,000 ammunition magazines, thousands of pieces of camouflage and night vision equipment, and hundreds of silencers, armored cars and aircraft.” Members of the crowd later approached the microphone to share testimonials from victims of police brutality. Stories were told from the perspective of brides whose wedding days were destroyed by police bullets, infants affected by tear gas grenades and innocent citizens shot in the back despite compliance. Stewart then delivered 5 policies to prevent police brutality, identified by Los Angeles citizen Shaun King whose petition to enact these policies has garnered over 200,000 signatures. The policies appearing in the petition are as follows: 1. The shooting and killing of an unarmed citizen who does not have an outstanding warrant for a violent crime should be a federal offense. 2. Choke holds and chest compressions by police (what the coroner lists as the official cause of death for Eric Garner) should be federally banned. 3. All police officers must wear forward facing body cameras while on duty. 4. Suspensions for violations of any of the above offenses should be unpaid. 5. Convictions for the above offenses should have their own set of mandatory minimum penalties. Members of the crowd were offered an opportunity to sign the petition electronically by texting “change” to 816-249-1766. Poets also presented works at the rally. Rod Love recited his poem “Beginnings,” “A horrible state of things is always part oppression, part complacency,” Love said. “And right now we stand facing a nation’s uncovered sins, bare naked, no apologies in sight to those who can stand to keep their eyes open.” Kansas City Mayor Sly James aired a video message to the city earlier on the 14th,with hope that “people make their opinions heard, but they do so in a way that allows people to actually listen as opposed to being distracted by the violence that may erupt on the edges.”
PHOTOS BY: JOEY HILL Protesters gather near the Country Club Plaza to protest the violence and police brutality exhibited in Ferguson, Mo. in response to the death of Michael Brown.
TProtesters held up signs and chanted “Hands up, don’t shoot!” at passers by. Participants also shared testimonials of victims of police brutality, and held a moment of silence for those who have fallen victim to police brutality.
Your ever-present smartphone Non-Profit could start earning its keep organizes KC JANET SCHAAF NEWS EDITOR
Scoopshot, an app that allows users to sell photos taken with smartphone cameras, is making money for people world-wide. The Finland-based company, established in 2010, has expanded into North America and the app has experienced increased popularity in the US. Users of the app take photos of people or events and upload them through Scoopshot, where the photos are offered for sale. Media outlets and marketers are the primary purchasers of Scoopshot photos. Buyers can create assignments for photos they are seeking, to which app users can respond. Scoopshot also creates tasks within the app for user response. Earnings from photo sales vary. The buyer sets a price for buyer-assigned photos. Photos uploaded in response to a Scoopshot task generally earn $2.50-10 each if purchased by Scoopshot. Each task is available for a limited period of time, typically for three days. Users set their own price for uploaded photos. For cash-strapped college students, this can be a quick way to make a buck. However, Scoopshot isn’t the only avenue for photo selling. Stock photo agencies Shutterstock and Bigstock also pay for user-submitted photos, though only higher quality images are usually accepted. Getty Images is another agency catering to professional photographers whose images end up in well-known magazines and international news outlets. The biggest difference between Scoopshot and other agencies is that Scoopshot caters to amateur photographers who happen to be in the right place at the right time with a smart phone in hand.
However, with convenience comes risk. Scoopshot’s Terms of Service provides very little protection for the casual photographer’s long-term rights to photos uploaded. According toscoopshot. com, Scoopshot retains “exclusive rights” to the uploaded photos for 48 hours, meaning “no other person shall use, publish, sell or offer to sell the photo or otherwise use the photo for any purpose, including commercial purposes or in their own work without the permission of the above mentioned exclusive rights holder.” If not purchased by a buyer within that period of time, some rights – but not all – are returned to the user. An aspect of selling the occasional photograph that might not immediately come to mind is the tax consequences of this income. Professional photographers are generally in business for themselves. Any income they earn from selling their work is considered taxable income. Scoopshot provides Finnish users tax documentation or simply withholds appropriate taxes from their earnings. For users in other countries, however, the company advises guidance of a tax professional in their locality. For casual users of the app who earn small amounts, this may not be problematic. As earnings rise, attention to tax consequences becomes important. Scoopshot is an innovative way to explore the world of selling photography and earning a few dollars at the same time. The free Scoopshot app is available in the App Store, on Google Play and in the Windows Store. For more information about the app, visit www. scoopshot.com.
area volunteers HIRAL PATEL SENIOR STAFF WRITER
The Call KC is a non-profit organization, established in 2012 by Brent Lager and Brent Lobdell as a response to a shortage of volunteers in Kansas City. The Call KC aims to increase involvement by prompting community members to volunteer for causes in need. Organizations from around the area needing volunteers can contact The Call KC to recruit more help. The Call KC then reaches out to the community to gather members willing to donate time. The organization has had people volunteer from high schools, churches, business clubs and more. The Call KC now seeks to also involve UMKC students. “We do events all over the city,” said Lager. “That’s one great thing – we don’t just do one set charity.” The Call KC has helped to recruit volunteers for 31 charities, many of which continuously require volunteers. “We have helped many different causes, such as the environment, health, animals, kids and the homeless,” said Lager. Groups that assisted organizations in the past are encouraged to volunteer at future events – for example, a group helping with the regional food pantry Harvesters later volunteered at the
Renaissance Festival. The Call KC also helps with Gillis, a local organization that helps children and families experiencing unfortunate circumstances get back on their feet. “With Gillis and the kids, we play kickball with them about once a month,” said Lager. “We also do art with them.” The Call KC doesn’t stop there. “There are a lot of really great 5Ks. There is a superhero 5K for Hillcrest. You dress up as superheroes and you walk or run, which is really awesome,” said Lager. Sometimes groups from The Call KC walk with the children from Gillis at the 5Ks. “We make gift cards for kids in the hospital, [and] we make Valentine’s Day cards for single, teenage moms,” said Lager. “We try to get really creative and have some fun with volunteering.” There are also many social events that The Call KC helps out with. The Call KC also helps with many social events. “We have Beer Pong for Babies to raise money for March of Dimes,” said Lager. Beer Pong for Babies helps to improve the health of babies. There are over 120 teams annually, and the event has gained popularity each year. UMKC students who look for volunteering opportunities can contact The Call KC or visit the group’s website at www.thecallkc.org.
ISSUE 1
NEWS
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UMKC’S Welcome Weekend KYNSLIE OTTE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF The Office of Student Involvement (OSI) hosted several welcome events over the weekend, including Roo Haul, Roos Give Back, Late Night with the Greeks, Casino Night, Convocation and UnionFest.
Students volunteered to assist move in efforts Friday, Aug. 22 as part of OSI’s Roo Haul event. Later, students were invited to attend Late Night with the Greeks at the University Walkway, co-sponsored by UMKC Greek life. The event included games and entertainment such as human bowling, a mechanical bull, a dunk tank, a Velcro
wall, a caricature artist and live music. Students in attendance were given an opportunity to learn more about UMKC’s fraternities and sororities. Saturday, Aug. 23 began with Roos Give Back – an event designed for students to put forth volunteer efforts at East High School. Projects included cleaning, office organization, artistic painting, yard
work and general maintenance. On Saturday evening OSI hosted its first ever Casino Night in Pierson Auditorium. Students were invited to play an assortment of casino games to win tickets for prizes, which included a Playstation 4, Beats Audio headphones, a Blu-Ray player, a television, gift cards, movie tickets and more.
PHOTOS BY: KYNSLIE OTTE & THE OFFICE OF STUDENT INVOLVEMENT The Office of Student Involvment hosted many Welcome events over the weekend, including Roos Give Back, Casino Night, Roo Haul and Union Fest. Each event aims to increase student involvement in campus life and organizations.
Convocation was held Sunday, Aug. 24 at Swinney Recreation Center, followed by UnionFest on the third floor of the Student Union. Unionfest is an event that focuses on student involvement. Various campus organizations set up tables with free swag and information encouraging students to play a more active role in campus life.
MONDAY AUGUST 25, 2014
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Started from the bottom, now I’m…chief? KYNSLIE OTTE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
To those returning to UMKC this semester, welcome back. To all of our new ’Roos, welcome home. As the freshly appointed Editor-inChief of University News, I am excited to begin this semester with a new title and a slew of new responsibilities. When I came to UMKC in spring 2011, I hardly
knew anyone and I’d never really taken a vested interest in journalism – until I found U-News. Working for this publication has given me the chance to meet incredible individuals, garner valuable work experience and learn what it truly means to be a journalist. I love my job, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. In my time at U-News, I’ve held nearly every position imaginable. I began working as a staff writer and photo editor, eventually became a production assistant and later the production manager - and now here I am, playing the role of fearless leader. I never would’ve guessed I’d find myself in this position with such big shoes to fill, though I’m grateful for the
Gen Xer finds niche JANET SCHAAF NEWS EDITOR I am returning to The University News staff as News Editor this year after spending last year as a copy editor. It was a year I enjoyed more than I could have imagined. I will admit to beginning this journey for purely selfish reasons: money, experience to include on my resume and perhaps in part to escape my too-real adult life. I didn’t join the staff because I wanted to make a difference in the world, but joining the staff did make a difference in me. It plugged me in to campus in a way I did not anticipate. As a copy editor, I read almost every article that was published in the paper and some that didn’t make the cut. I have met people I probably would not have otherwise met, and I’ve listened to their tales of joy and sorrow as a generational outsider. I have some personal experience not giving advice unless specifically requested to do so – I have a college-aged child who is not always interested in my perspective, although that is changing as he gets older. This will be my last semester at UMKC, as I am just one class shy of my English degree. In my time away from campus, I work part-time in the MCC-Longview community education office.
I am an avid reader – no surprise coming from an English major – and am almost always in the middle of two books at the same time. My current selections are James Joyce’s “Dubliners” and “On Writing” by Stephen King. Being a part of U-News also turned my eyes to more news reading than in the past. This publication went through some changes last year: an experiment with two editors-inchief, a new format and a new faculty advisor. I didn’t realize how many changes had taken place until I listened to a few conversations about the previous year. We have fewer changes this year and it feels like a solid start. We have new leadership in Kynslie Otte. Kynslie is an excellent writer. I hope you enjoy reading her work – I do. I am excited to be working alongside her this year. Several former writers, editors and staff will be back in the U-News house again. Be sure to look on the masthead for familiar names of those who are continuing to hone their journalism skills. This year’s reporting will have the benefit of solid experience by writers excited to be a part of this organization. I consider myself lucky to be included in this group of college students working diligently to bring you the news. I suppose my reason for being here has changed. It feels a little more altruistic this year because I have a vested interest in this paper and this institution. UMKC will be my alma mater in a few short months and I want to be proud of what I leave behind.
opportunity. When I’m not holed up in the news house or in class, you can usually find me at Three Dog Bakery playing with puppies and decorating fancy dog treats. Though I don’t have much free time, I find it is best spent making music, hanging out with friends, writing, binge-watching Netflix while eating horizontally or going to concerts. I love all things unhealthy and I despise exercise. I hope to graduate in December, but I plan to return to UMKC in the spring to spend one final semester at U-News. As EIC, I strive to continue growing a positive reputation for U-News by increasing readership and student involvement. I also hope to foster stronger
relationships between this publication and all of our fantastic campus organizations. I love this newspaper dearly, and I hope to ensure its continued success. Needless to say, I can’t do any of these things without your help. In order to make U-News the best newspaper it can be, the senior staff and I need your feedback, suggestions and participation. We want to know what you love and hate about our publication – what you want to see more of and what you could do without. After all, this is your newspaper. I encourage all of you to find ways to get involved on campus this semester. If you’re the slightest bit interested in journalism, the U-News staff is always happy to take on new writers – no experience
necessary. Working for U-News is a great way to start building a resume while learning the art of journalism, and it provides fantastic networking opportunities. On top of that, working for U-News means being introduced to the coolest people you’ll ever meet – the U-News senior staff. Okay, so maybe I’m a little biased, but we have a lot of fun here. In all seriousness, I’m thrilled to be in charge of this publication, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for U-News. I’ve been given a wonderful opportunity to lead and learn from my fellow students. I hope you’ll all continue to learn and grow with us here at U-News. It’s going to be an exciting year.
It’s spelled “s-a-y” LINDSAY NELSON MANAGING EDITOR Hello my fellow Roos, my name is Lindsay Jane Nelson. Our fearless leader of U-News optimistically promoted me to the position of Managing Editor. In lieu of these new credentials, I get to write an Op-Ed all about myself. So, here goes. This is my fourth and hopefully, final year at UMKC. I am a Theatre Performance major, and I love every waking minute of it. Three years and seven plays later, my credits now include two starring roles and a more than proficient Irish brogue. Currently I am in “Reasons to Be Pretty,” which opens Tuesday. As soon as it closes, rehearsals
begin for “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” the next production I’ll be seen in, directed by the superlative Scott Stackhouse. It would be an absolute dream come true to be cast in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” in the spring, so cross your fingers with me on that one. I’m an actress by night, student and employee by day. When I am not holed up in the confines of a theater, I can be found in class, the lovely Westlake Ace Hardware in Lee’s Summit, or the U-News house. The latter is the most recent addition to the many places I now call home. I began writing for University News in August of last year. I started out as an eager staff writer who simply missed and craved writing. I was promoted to copy editor by the spring. Now, I’m sitting in rehearsal sorting through unedited articles as Managing Editor, and I could not be more excited. It would be a disgrace to not mention how phenomenally our new Editor-in-Chief, Kynslie
Otte, is running things, and we are only one issue in. She is easily filling the shoes of her predecessors. Before you stop reading, please rest assured that I am more than a theatre-obsessed-journalismnerd. I am a nerd in almost every other way, too. My favorite shows are “Supernatural” and “Dirty Jobs.” My favorite movie is “Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl” and has been since its release. I am obsessed with both Star Trek and Star Wars. My favorite band is Queen. My dad is easily the coolest man I know. I love Raisin Bran and sandwiches. F. Scott Fitzgerald and William Shakespeare are the most exquisite writers who have ever lived. Love is the most important thing in life, and ice cream always makes everything better. Let’s take this semester by storm. Whether this is your freshman semester or your last before graduation in December, embrace it for all the potential it can have. Work harder, laugh louder, speak with kindness and smile more.
Three jobs keep this student busy ALEX DAPP A & E EDITOR Welcome to another school year at UMKC. I am the Arts & Entertainment editor for the 2014-2015 school year. I strive to bring you the best coverage of all the happenings on campus and in the Kansas City area. From concerts, movies, arts shows and everything in between, the Arts & Entertainment section of The
University News will hopefully become the student body’s go-to guide for events this academic year and beyond. This is my last year at UMKC, and I hope to cherish each moment and to take advantage of the opportunities the University offers. Fortunately, my job as A&E editor allows me to gain knowledge about entertaining and interesting events, and I am excited to share everything this year has to offer with all of our readers. When I’m not in class or working at U-News, I am either interning in the Strategic Marketing and Communications department on campus, or shuttling kids around town to soccer practice as their nanny. When I do get some down time, I like to spend it doing
yoga or napping with my black lab pup. I am excited to see what this year brings. University News has a great senior staff working each week to bring you the best newspaper possible. It is our goal to provide you with enough information to stay upto-date and well-informed. The University News’ staff strives to deliver content you want to read each week. Your participation as readers and your involvement with U-News will only aid the success of this year’s publication. The senior staff and I are looking forward to this school year and being alongside you every step of the way. Let’s make this year a good one.
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U-NEWS SENIOR STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF KYNSLIE OTTE
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ISSUE 1
SPORTS
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UMKC Men’s Soccer falls to Rockhurst
PHOTOS BY: DAVID PETERLIN UMKC loses to Rockhurst 3-1 in final exhibition match Sunday, Aug. 24.
KC Chiefs season promising with mix of young and experienced players IAN STEVENIN STAFF WRITER The Kansas City Chiefs had an exciting 2013 season under General Manager John Dorsey and Head Coach Andy Reid, improving from 2-14 in 2012 to 11-5 in 2013. Kansas City finished 2nd in its division behind the Denver Broncos, but made it to the playoffs before losing to the Indianapolis Colts. The Chiefs’ training camp ended on Aug. 14 and
the team currently stands 1-1 in the preseason. Predicting this season’s outcome may rely on several factors. Unsure Secondary: •The secondary is based around Pro Bowl Safety Eric Berry. The roster is mostly comprised of young and inexperienced players, which may not be ideal since the schedule has six of the top 10 quarterbacks in the NFL.
The weapons on offense look promising: •Established quarterback Alex Smith is coming off of one of his best seasons. •Kansas City lost Dexter McCluster, but added DeAnthony Thomas in the draft, who is a similar player in size, versatility and unpredictability. •Travis Kelce may be a surprise for everyone. He had some big plays in training camp and a big play against the Panthers with a 43-yard touchdown
Kansas City Royals staying in the game IAN STEVENIN STAFF WRITER It has been 29 years since the Kansas City Royals have been to the post season. Since Aug. 21, the team sits on top of the AL Central with a 2 1/2 game lead. 10 series games and a single game against the New York Yankees await when The Royals return from away games against the Texas Rangers this week. With a few winning streaks this season, coupled with seasoned players on the roster and a considerably mediocre schedule, The Royals show
promise to secure a spot in the playoffs. Kansas City has talent across the field on both sides of the plate. The team is ranked third in terms of overall batting average and relief pitcher Greg Holland leads Seattle’s Fernando Rodney with the most saves. Alex Gordon was drafted by the Royals in 2005 and has remained with the team since 2007. His talents have largely contributed to the team’s success, but Kansas City could lose their star player if they miss the post season. He is contracted at $13 million dollars in 2016, but may look for a higher
salary with another team. “Thirty-five games left. Definitely keep pouring it on, keep scoring runs, keep doing what we’re doing,” centerfielder Lorenzo Cain told reporters after Friday’s win over the Rangers. “Find a way to get in these playoffs any way possible.” The Royals appear determined to keep the idea of a winning season alive. The Royals are scheduled to play at Kauffman Stadium for 20 out of the team’s last 35 games.
thrown by rookie quarterback Aaron Murray. •Jamaal Charles is ranked one of the best running backs in the league. •Knile Davis will help take the load of Charles and help wear out the defense. Sketchy Offensive Line: •Ronald Stephenson has been suspended from play for the first four games for violating the NFL’s policy against performance-enhancing drugs, which
requires Reid to find anoter player to fill his spot. • The line is the youngest in the league. This could make for increased penalties and potential rookie mistakes. Contract Issues Alex Smith and Justin Houston have yet to achieve satisfactory contracts. The Chiefs may see a successful season if the younger players step up to work with more veteran players.
6a
SPORTS
MONDAY AUGUST 25, 2014
Head coach Chris Cissel has high expectations for the 2014 WAC season DAN MOREDNO SPORTS EDITOR The UMKC women’s soccer team made history last year after making it all the way to the WAC Tournament final, losing to Seattle University 3-0. The team has had a strong preseason start under Head Coach Chris Cissell, securing a 2-0 win against Rockhurst University and a 1-0 win against Missouri State. Yesterday the ’Roos recorded their first defeat of the season at Durwood Stadium with a 0-1 loss against Central Arkansas. After setting many school records during UMKC’s first year in the Western Athletic Conference, Cissell worked hard over the summer to prepare a team that can top last year’s performance. “It was a great summer,” Cissell said. “We had our own camps with UMKC, but the girls didn’t report until August 5th. It’s a very quick turnaround and the team has made a lot of progress during these last couple of weeks.” Cissell has put together a team that will give women’s soccer a new face and that hopes to start off strong when UMKC begins its regular season Friday against Missouri State at Durwood Stadium. “We have a great class of freshmen this year,” Cissell said. “There’s eight freshmen, and several of them are competing to play right away as starters or as first to come off the bench this season. I honestly think that they will have a great four-year career here.” Cissell has focused on recruiting players from Kansas City and its surrounding areas. “This year we have four girls from Kansas City, two from St. Louis, one from Omaha and one from Wichita,” Cissell said. “Next year’s class will feature six girls from Kansas City as well.” Last year, the UMKC women’s soccer team scored 33 goals, 16 of which were from players who graduated last semester. “Overcoming such a great graduating class is always a challenge,” Cissell said. “It’s hard to replace someone that scored 15 goals like Taylor [Bare]. It’s too early to know who will be our top scorer and who will be able step up.” On the other hand, Cissell believes this year’s team will be more aggressive than last year’s. “This year we will be more of a complete team,” Cissell said. “We will get goals from several people instead of having to rely on one person. In a way we are going to be tougher for teams to deal and prepare for.” Cissell plans to have a better season than last year and to make it even further in the WAC. “I have really high goals,” Cissell said. “Our goal this year is to win both the regular season and the conference tournament. We want to be the WAC representative at the national tournament.” Sharing locker rooms and a home stadium with professional team and NWSL finalists FC Kansas City has been motivational for UMKC and its student athletes. “You never stop learning while watching [the] game at the highest level,” Cissell said. “We attend their [FCKC] games, and sometimes we see them practice, and have learned a lot from them. It has really impacted our team.” dmoreno@unews.com
PHOTOS BY: DAVID PETERLIN UMKC defeats Missouri State 1-0 in its season opener on Friday, Aug. 22 at Durwood Stadium.
Popcorn loves you, too LINDSAY NELSON MANAGING EDITOR Popcorn is finally considered a healthy snack. You’re welcome. Christine Gerbstadt, physician and dietitian, includes popcorn on her list (Gerbstadt’s List) of healthy snacks that promote weight loss. The stomach takes a moment to catch up with the brain. It takes approximately 15 minutes after ingesting food before digestive enzymes in the stomach let the brain know a person is getting full. Since many people take a longer amount of time to eat popcorn, it is more likely one will start to feel full before eating too much. Popcorn is also a good source of fiber, which makes it a naturally more filling food. Robert Preidt of Everyday Health Magazine
considers popcorn to be “the whole grain treat” that is a “good choice for guilt-free snacking.” Healthday News reports that popcorn contains more “good for you” antioxidants (polyphenols) than some fruits and vegetables. One serving of popcorn provides 13 percent of a person’s average daily intake of polyphenols. A serving of fruit or nuts provides 19 percent. Popcorn is one of the only snacks that is 100 percent unprocessed whole grain. One serving provides 70 percent of a daily intake of whole grains. However, this nutritional value is based on simple, air-popped popcorn. Using a hot air popper is the healthiest way to go. Microwaveable popcorn contains 43 percent fat, opposed to only 28 percent when air-popped with oil. Avoid adding too much butter and salt, and popcorn will never do you wrong.
Spiced Popcorn Calories: 15
Fat: 0g
Directions:
Carbs: 3g
Fiber: 1g
1. In a small bowl, stir together cumin,
Protein: 1g
chili powder, salt, cayenne pepper and
Preparation time: 10 min
cinnamon.
Ingredients: Makes 6 servings
2. Spread popped popcorn in an even layer
•1/4 teaspoon cumin, ground
in a large, shallow baking pan. Lightly coat
•1/4 teaspoon chili powder
popcorn with nonstick cooking spray.
•1/8 teaspoon salt
Sprinkle the cumin mixture evenly over
•Dash of pepper, cayenne (to taste)
popcorn. Toss until coated.
•dash cinnamon, ground (to taste) •6 cups popcorn kernels, air-popped •cooking spray
A&E
7a
SUMMER 2014 BEST
“Donker Mag” – Die Antwoord
Rap-rave South African group Die Antwoord landed no. 37 on the Billboard 200 chart with its June
A fusion of experimental and trip hop, FKA Twigs’ debut album “LP1” was released August 6. Twigs is an ethereal soundsmith who weaves amorous breaths, celestial vocals and visceral rhythms into a hypnotic tapestry. Her background as a professional dancer gives her an intrinsic sense of rhythm and movement that listeners may find apparent in every track. The
album’s
first
single,
the
genre-
transcending “Two Weeks,” is a sensuous, hymn of desire, and was selected as Pitchfork’s Best New Track. The album sold 10,370 copies in its first week, according to billboard.com.
Richard
Linklater’s
“Boyhood,”
BEST
the group members’ native language Afrikaans.
of cinema has never experienced. Filmed over a
limits – the songs reference everything from drugs to
Mason, literally ages as his character does. This
Instagram to child-rearing to Satanism.
happens to each cast member: Patricia Arquette,
Yolandi delivers lines like “I’m wicked like a mad
Ethan Hawke and Lorelei Linklater all age in
D-O-G, fresh like a little dark G-O-D” in her signature,
accordance with their respective characters. Each
chilling voice, which may simultaneously call to mind
year, Linklater would gather the actors and film a
schoolyard chants and black witchcraft.
handful of scenes.
“Donker Mag,” while perhaps not as cohesive as
The result is a stunning coming-of-age
previous albums “Ten$ion” and “$O$,” still captures
portrait that meticulously examines how lives
everything that defines Die Antwoord: A charmingly
grow, change and shape an individual. As a girl
in-your-face attitude, South African pride and an art
Mason meets during the duration of the film
house weirdness that has attracted the likes of director
says, “You know how everyone’s always saying
Harmony Korine and photographer Roger Ballen.
‘seize the moment?’ I don’t know, I’m kind of
BEST Lana Del Rey’s highly anticipated second studio
Animals released its debut album “ZABA” June 9. Frontman Dave Bayley has a neuroscience degree from London’s King’s College, demonstrated in the highly cultivated, psychedelic soundscape of
growing up. Ellar Coltrane, who plays the main character
-”Ultraviolence” – Lana Del Rey
Cerebral British indie rock band Glass
span of twelve years, the movie’s main focus is
over the kinetic beats of DJ Hi-Tek. No topic is off-
thinking it’s the other way around, like the moment seizes us.” “Boyhood” is showing in many theaters in
album, “Ultraviolence,” was released June 17, and
Kansas City, including Tivoli Cinemas and AMC
quickly reached no. 1 on the Billboard 200.
BarryWoods 24.
“Ultraviolence” is cinematic and smooth, much like its predecessor “Born to Die,” and features atmospheric noir overtones cut with melancholy and loneliness. Overall, Del Rey’s sophomoric effort is as polished and coherent as it is beautiful. “Ultraviolence” sold 182,000 copies in its first week, according to billboard.com.
BEST
“ZABA” - Glass Animals
released
July 18, is an experiment in film that the world
Visser and Ninja deliver taunting, multi-lingual raps
BEST
Directed by Richard Linklater
3 release, “Donker Mag,” which means “dark power” in High-energy performance powerhouses Yolandi
“LP1” – FKA Twigs
“Boyhood”
tracks like “JDNT” and single “Gooey.” Layer upon syrupy layer of kaleidoscopic vocals and beats melt together to create an earthly pulse that seems to be birthed of old-world gods. Blissful “ZABA” single “Pools” has spent seven weeks on Billboard’s Twitter Emerging Artists chart, peaking at no. 32.
“Maleficent” Directed by Robert Stromberg
BEST
BEST
“Guardians of the Galaxy” Directed by James Gunn
Robert Stromberg’s “Maleficent,” released
Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” met
May 30, is a reimagining of Disney’s animated
wide acclaim after its Aug. 1st release, scoring
classic film “Sleeping Beauty,” featuring live
an impressive 92% rating from rottentomatoes.
actors and breathtaking computer-generated
com.
imagery.
Starring Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Vin
Angelina Jolie stars as Maleficent, a
Diesel,
Dave
Bautista
and
other
notable
powerful fairy who finds herself unlucky in love
actors, the comic book adventure follows the
when a human named Stefan takes advantage
adventurer Peter Quill, who becomes the target
of her in attempt to become a king. Maleficent
of an intergalactic bounty hunt when he steals a
seeks vengeance by cursing Stefan’s only
powerful orb sought by the universe-threatening
daughter Aurora (Elle Fanning), though later
villain, Ronan. He is forced to make an alliance
discovers the young girl is the key to peace in
with a team of idiosyncratic space outlaws:
the land.
Rocket Raccoon, Groot, Gamora and Drax.
Jolie is eloquent and poised, bringing depth
The movie is quirky, humorous and capable
to her character and evoking empathy for a
of enrapturing die-hard Marvel fans and
creature once considered one of Disney’s most
newcomers alike, grossing a record-shattering
sinister villains. Fanning and Jolie’s onscreen
$94.3 million in the US, according to The
chemistry creates both humor and genuinely
Hollywood Reporter.
touching moments, leaving audiences to ponder the true nature of good and evil. “Maleficent” is currently being shown at
“Guardians of the Galaxy” is currently showing at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema and the Cinemark Palace on the Plaza.
AMC Town Center 20.
BEST & WORST KYNSLIE OTTE / EDITOR-IN-CHEIF TORY FOULK / PRODUCTION ASSISTANT
“Transformers: Age of Extinction” – Directed
“Lucy” – Directed by Luc Besson “Lucy,” released July 25, features a starstudded cast that includes Scarlett Johansson
by Michael Bay “Transformers:
and
Extinction,”
marks
the
hit
underdeveloped plotline and mediocre dialogue.
installment of Michael Bay’s “Transformers”
scientific claim that humans can only utilize 10
27,
of
theaters
The action thriller flick is based on the
June
Age
and Morgan Freeman, but fell flat with an
fourth
franchise. The
film
picks
up
five
years
after
percent of their total brain power, and surpassing
“Transformers: Dark of the Moon” left off. The
that percentage could allow nearly anything to
American government has formed specialized
happen.
CIA unit to hunt the Decepticons left on Earth
Jennifer Lopez’ “AKA” was released June
“AKA” – Jennifer Lopez
“Animal Ambition: An Untamed Desire to
“Paula” – Robin Thicke
Win” – 50 Cent
Robin Thicke’s July 2nd release of “Paula,” an
Lucy (Johansson) unintentionally consumes
after the Battle of Chicago, but is secretly
13 with lackluster reviews. From the first song,
50 Cent’s “Animal Ambition” was released June 3,
album written about his recently estranged wife
a drug that slowly allows her total access to
hunting Autobots as well. The unit’s leader,
the album sounds like a slapdash mix of popular
but despite its subtitle proclaiming “An Untamed
Paula Patton, was considered a massive flop by
her brain power, which transforms her into a
Harold Attinger, played by Kelsey Grammar,
styles that work for other popular artists, but
Desire to Win,” his desire proves insufficient to
music critics across the globe. The album sold a
superhuman with answers to all of life’s biggest
is unconvinced that any Transformers have
that Lopez herself cannot seem to execute
make this album a victory. All tracks have solid
dismal 530 copies in the UK during its first week,
questions.
humanity’s best interests in mind. Little does
without assistance. The artists she features are
beats, but it’s 50 Cent’s relaxed rap style that
according to theguardian.com, and only 25,000
Though the action scenes are well-executed
Attinger know, Optimus Prime is in hiding under
the most interesting parts of the album, which
fails to impress.
copies in the US.
and aesthetically pleasing, the film ends abruptly
care of an inventor named Cade Yeager, played by
include Iggy Azalea, T.I. and Pitbull.
and without any real explanation for the events
Mark Wahlberg.
The basic plot for “Lucy” enters a realm of untapped potential for sci-fi films of the future, but leaves too many unanswered questions. “Lucy” is currently showing at the Regal Kansas
City
Thicke reportedly wrote, co-produced, recorded
The songs without featured artists fall
Kidd Kidd is the only song that works well with
and self-financed “Paula” in only three weeks,
flat. Lopez’ vocals are repetitive and lack the
50 Cent’s casual delivery due to its simplistic
but saw less success than last summer’s release
necessary assertion to aid the song’s progression.
rhythms.
of “Blurred Lines,” which sold 177,000 during its
of
In the title track, “AKA,” Lopez promises, “This is
Though video clips were strategically leaked up
first week.
Extinction” is for individuals sated by nothing
not the girl you used to know,” and she’s correct.
until its release date, “Animal Ambition” only
more than sweeping special effects and constant
“AKA” does not have the energy to measure up to
sold 47,000 copies in its first week, which falls
action. Viewers who seek something deeper are
her famed previous releases, such as 2001’s “J.Lo.”
flat compared to his last release “Before I Self
In the end, as in all “Transformers” films, a
leading up to its conclusion.
Cinemas
“Irregular Hearbeat” featuring Jadakiss and
Stadium
18,
Alamo
Drafthouse Cinema and Cinemark 20.
WORST
massive battle ensues. Ultimately,
“Transformers:
Age
likely to leave disappointed. “Transformers:
Age
of
Extinction”
is
currently showing at the Regal Cinemas Kansas City Stadium 18 and Cinetopia Overland Park 18.
WORST
WORST
Destruct,” which sold 160,000 units.
WORST
WORST
8a A & E
MONDAY AUGUST 25, 2014
We all got a little better
Bleachers electrifies the stage at Power and Light with Misterwives. JOEY HILL SENIOR STAFF WRITER
The Power & Light District experienced the musical equivalent of a lightning strike to the heart with Friday’s free concert featuring Bleachers and Misterwives, sponsored by 96.5 The Buzz. The audience endured oppressive humidity despite heat advisories that were in effect. Opening act Misterwives proved to be a great distraction from the heat with songs from the group’s upcoming debut full-length album. Misterwives’ musical style is reminiscent of ornate pop by groups similar to Florence and the Machine, particularly in the group’s single “Vagabond,” which mimics piano beats used by Mumford & Sons. Front woman Mandy Lee is a bubbling source of energy on stage while providing moody, melodic vocals. Performing many tracks from the recent EP “Reflections,” Misterwives made it clear that they were a group to be kept on the radar of any listeners who enjoy a dash of ska and indie in their operatic pop. Teetering between retro new wave and indie pop, Jack Antonoff ’s latest project Bleachers has made its mark in recent weeks since its debut album dropped mid-July. Antonoff is no stranger to making hits due to experience with his last two projects, Fun and Steel Train, and has written songs with artists like Taylor Swift and Carly Rae Jepsen. “I Wanna Get Better,” the first single from “Strange Desire,” has gained recognition after climbing to no. 11 on the billboard charts in the first week. Appearing through smoke and blue strobe lights, Bleachers took up its instruments and ripped into the music. As an act, Bleachers resembled Depeche Mode and Slayer. Antonoff tore into his guitar with such aggressiveness his pick shattered at the end of “You’re Still a Mystery.” Songs like “Shadow” demonstrate the group’s diverse musical influences, with the song’s late 80s style Latin synth beat channeling Paul Simon and airy chant-like vocals calling on a midseventies Joy Division.
UMKC Theatre Seasonopening Double Header LINDSAY NELSON MANAGING EDITOR The University Theatre Association has prepared two entirely student-directed productions to kick off the 2014-15 UMKC Theatre season. The first production is of Neil LaBute’s “Reasons to Be Pretty,” directed by senior theatre student JoAnna Bledsoe. “Neil LaBute writes how people really think, act, talk and reason,” Bledsoe said. “I chose to direct ‘Reasons to be Pretty’ because it gives us insight into how humans react and deal with issues that relate to romantic relationships.” LaBute’s version of a romantic comedy does not fall into the traditional Hollywood definition.
“It gets down to the dirty and rough reality that many couples face in their relationships,” Bledsoe said. She said anyone can learn from the characters, and may relate to them more than anticipated. The cast includes students Steven Miles, Yasmeen Wilcox and alum John Van Winkle. The show will run August 26-30 at 7:30 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center, 116. Admission is free, though donations are welcome. The second production is of Jean Paul Sarte’s “No Exit,” directed by senior theatre student Ethan Zogg. “No Exit” is performed in the windows of the Fishtank Theater curated by local theatre aficionado, Heidi Van. “Hell is not what it’s supposed to be in Jean-
Paul Sartre’s world of ‘No Exit,’” Zogg said. When three recently deceased people meet in the afterlife, facades are stripped away. The differences between what one wants to believe and the harsh realities of a future existence make eternal rest a torturous endeavor. “No matter how desperately you cling to illusions, the truth must be faced,” Zogg said. The cast includes students Anna Day, Marianne McKenzie and local actor Bradley Thomas. The show will run August 26-30 at 8:30 p.m. at 1715 Wyandotte, near the Kauffman Center. Admission is $5-$15, with prices varying for artists, students and adults.
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Hack it off When life seems more annoying than necessary TORY FOULK PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Life hacks, a phrase popularized by various social media users during the last decade, refer to efficient strategies used to solve everyday problems. The following list of life hacks pertain to a college-aged audience:
TESTING TIPS: 1) Chewing intensely flavored gum while studying – and then again while taking a test – is suggested as a method to jog the tester’s memory about the studied material. 2) Researchers at Montclair State University in New Jersey suggest that memory recall can be improved by simply clenching a fist. For right-handed individuals, memory recall can be boosted by clenching the right fist before studying information, and later clenching the left fist to recall the information. The inverse
applies to left-handed individuals.
EVERYDAY TIPS:
1) An easy way to clean between laptop keys is to use the sticky section of a Post-It Note to grab dust or other debris. 2) Beverages can be quickly chilled if wrapped in a damp paper towel and placed in the freezer for 15 minutes. 3) This issue of University News can be recycled effectively if placed in the bottom of an empty trash bag – a newspaper will absorb any liquids thrown into the trash. 4) Soak a sponge in water and seal it in an airtight Ziploc bag before placing it in the freezer to make an icepack that won’t drip as it melts. If you have any interesting life hacks to share with U-News readers, email your ideas to tsfy8b@ mail.umkc.edu and or ljnvy4@mail.umkc.edu.