News
A&E
INDUS celebrates culture and community during the fall formal.
“The Rainmaker” impresses at the MET.
INDUS, p. 3
The Rainmaker, p. 11
UNIVERSITY NEWS UMKC’s Independent Student Newspaper
Volume 81, Issue 6
Monday September 23, 2013
INNOVATION CENTER BRINGS ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY TO DENTAL SCHOOL
Kate Baxendale
Copy Editor
The UMKC School of Dentistry opened the Dr. Charles Dunlap Innovation Center for Research and Education in Technology on Sept. 16. The center features simulators which allow students to experience a private practice atmosphere and receive hands-on training. “I believe having our students experience contemporary office
equipment technology and materials in a setting that more closely simulates dental practice is going to be a real advantage for them and give them an edge as they graduate,” Dr. Marsha Pyle, the School of Dentistry dean, said. “From my perspective the stakes today are much higher for students than they were years ago when I was a student.” The facility is named after
The innovation center serves as a test and simulation lab that prepares students for the business and clinical aspects of dentistry. Photo // Kate Baxendale
State-of-the-art dental chairs and equipment are meant to resemble private practices. Photo // Kate Baxendale
alumnus and longtime faculty member Dr. Charles Dunlap. Dunlap graduated from the UMKC School of Dentistry in 1960 before teaching at the school for 46 years until his retirement in 2010. “I have to tell you that today for me is a very gratifying experience as we open our innovation clinic,” Pyle said. “Four years ago at the school of dentistry we started discussing this vision of what our student experience could be, how we could add to that experience and how we could bridge between what we teach at the school and private practice.” The innovation center is a test and simulation lab that exposes students to both the clinical and business sides of running a practice. Both dental and dental hygiene students will rotate through the clinic, gaining knowledge of the latest technological developments in the field of dentistry. “Our students are going to experience this beautiful stateof-the-art facility and relevant exercises and curriculum and simulations around all of these foundational principles,” Pyle said. The Dr. Charles Dunlap Innovation Center for Research and Education in Technology is partnered with the Center for Research in Technology, a group of leaders in the dental field. This is CRET’s second partnership, the first being with the dental school at Loma Linda University in California. “Most of us, especially those of us in business, know that doing something a second time is often more difficult than doing it the first time,” said Charles Cohen, Benco Dental Supply Company president and chair of CRET. “The first version always gets more attention, better resources and is often the recipient of just a little good fortune. But doing something again shows that the first success wasn’t an accident. And it’s a dirty little secret, but usually the second time is usually better than the first.” Six manufacturers donated the equipment to the 2,026-square-foot center. The Stanley H. Durwood Foundation and other alumni and friends of the school contributed to the innovation center. Approximately $2.25 million was raised for the center and its staffing.
Chancellor Leo Morton and Dr. Marsha Pyle cut the ribbon at the Dr. Charles Dunlap Innovation Center for Research and Education in Technology. Photo // Kate Baxendale “Thanks to our contributors’ dental school in America.” generosity, we can now give our Cohen explained how the students the experience of the most concept of the innovation center is a modern and efficiently-equipped new model in dental education that offices that they need to have,” breaks the mold in three ways. Chancellor Leo E. Morton said. “The “First, it seamlessly integrates benefit of this is when our students technology into the dental school graduate, they will be familiar with curriculum,” Cohen said. “Second, it the tools of the trade and they will shows how a longtime partnership have hands-on experience with between dental companies and those tools.” dental schools need something Dr. James Trotter, a School bigger and more substantial than of Dentistry clinical assistant either could create alone. Finally, it professor, was appointed director helps to sustain the private practice of the center. industry, the backbone of our “I’m going to let you in on a little profession.” secret: this one is better, and not just The dedication and celebration because it is more beautiful,” Cohen concluded with a ribbon cutting said. “Today we all proved that the ceremony and a tour of the new CRET concept can be replicated, space. and that’s the really wonderful part of this program. Our goal is to kbaxendale@unews.com implement this concept at every
Urban Crime Summit Plans for Less Violence in Kansas City and St. Louis
Marlee Newman
Staff Writer
In response to the ever-growing presence of violence in Kansas City and St. Louis, Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster headed an Urban Crime Summit Sept. 16-17 in Kansas City and continued the following two days in St. Louis. The summit was held to gather Missouri public officials, guest speakers and citizens to discuss the prevention of violent crime.
The summit included a panel of five prominent officials throughout the metro areas of Kansas City and St. Louis: Chief Sam Dotson of the St. Louis Metro Police Department, Mayor Francis Slay of St. Louis, Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster, Chief Darryl Forte of the Kansas City Metro Police Department and Mayor Sly James of Kansas City. The first day of the summit focused on examining the policies
of various large U.S. cities that have significantly reduced violent crime over the years. In congruence with this theme, New York City Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly was the first guest to provide insight as to how New York has effectively driven down the percentage of violent crime per capita. Koster highlighted the importance of this approach to solving the issue of violence on the streets and assured that all
suggestions and concerns would be considered with great seriousness. “We are not afraid of honest discussion of controversial topics,” Koster said. “We are not afraid of new approaches that will break old paradigms. We are only afraid of the cost of complacency in the face of this violence, and of the lost lives and broken families that our inaction will bring.” Kelly spoke about breaking down the idea of complacency
in the face of violence in New York City and emphasized how a proactive approach to policing has lowered the number of violent incidents throughout the New York metropolitan area even while the number of police officials has decreased. A big factor in maintaining a proactive police department and a hot topic throughout both days of the summit were how the police departments of Kansas City and Continued on page 2
Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
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Continued from Cover:
Faculty Senate meeting addresses changes
Urban Crime Summit St. Louis need to fully utilize the innovative policing technologies that are currently on the market and how detailed statistics taken from areas throughout cities that harbor the most crime can dramatically boost the efficiency of the police departments. “Numbers are our best weapon,” Kelly said, referring to Operation Impact, a program used in New York that allows for real-time policing from data gathered the instant a crime is committed along with statistics mirroring past trends within a given area. This data predicts where and how many police officials should be on patrol based on the outcome of the
policy in New York that allows officers to frisk any person that may appear to be suspicious. The method was highly unpopular with some community members and was recently ruled by a federal court to be unconstitutional, although the ruling was later appealed. Kelly mentioned that he does not find it to be unconstitutional but said he believes it is a necessary and useful safety measure that other cities like Kansas City and St. Louis could find useful. The first day of the summit came to a close with a discussion conducted by David Starbuck, Grain Valley Police deputy chief and president of the Midwest Gang Investigators
the University Crime Lab at the University of Chicago. Pollack focused on the different ways in which violent crime negatively affects a community. He mentioned that many people do not realize the social costs of crime and it is estimated that 70 residents will leave a city after each homicide. “The striking thing is how many of these homicides just don’t have to happen,” Pollack said. At one point his slide displayed a simple equation: aggravated young male immersed in the word of street code plus gun equals dead body. Referring to this slide Pollack discussed the success of the mentoring program that he conducted in an inner-city Chicago high school in 2012 and how similar mentoring programs could be very useful if implemented in more city schools. Pollack said the tolerance for illegal gun ownership that is unique to the U.S. is another source of the violence problem. He mentioned that the U.S. is “off the charts for homicides” compared to similar developed countries and explained that “guns are a part of our history and culture that we struggle with.” The panel began discussing how to handle the current spike in gun thefts. Discussions about new police Attorney General Chris Koster visits Pierson Auditorium to address violent technology took the stage once crime resolutions in Kansas City on Sept. 16-17. Courtesy // UMKC again. David Chipman, senior vice president of public safety program. Association. Starbuck touched on solutions for ShotSpotter Inc. and Although there is the common the importance of reaching out to former policeman, discussed the misconception that the majority adolescent males in order to prevent ShotSpotter technology. Shotspotter of urban violence is due to gang future gang involvement and how can detect and record gunshots and and drug activity, there has been studies have shown that one-on- then immediately direct a camera to significant research that shows one communication rather than zoom into the source of the gunfire, targeting domestic violence group discussions are most useful which produces a clear picture throughout urban areas dramatically in this area. He also noted how not quality never before seen in police decreases fatalities due to murder. only does law enforcement hold a surveillance devices. A prominent topic throughout great responsibility when it comes “Real-time intelligence is about the first two days of the summit to reducing gang activity, but that to change everything for police and hinged on what the face of violent the community has a responsibility already has started in Kansas City criminal activity looks like in cities to prevent such activity by creating and St. Louis,” Chipman said. throughout the U.S., including awareness throughout schools. It was clear that the panel and Kansas City and St. Louis. Violence Drs. Cynthia Lum and Christopher community members realized the is often characterized by petty Koper from George Mason’s Center need for advancement in policing arguments with the variable of for Evidence-Based Crime Policy technology in Kansas City. weapons involved rather than the reiterated the notion that a proactive “I believe that ShotSpotter is a common but slightly skewed picture approach starts with statistics and good investment for Kansas City and of large-scale gang and drug activity. focusing on hot spots throughout one I’d like to see expanded,” James Kelly noted that as a result of the Kansas City and St. Louis. The said. strong focus the patrol officers in research they conducted supported The panel plans to compile a list of the New York metro area place on this idea, revealing that the majority policy recommendations, including domestic violence, murder rates of a city’s violent criminal activity is a policy change toward prioritizing dropped by 25 percent over the often concentrated within only five gun crimes that Koster will present course of two decades. percent of its land area. to Missouri officials in December. Other topics addressed during the The second day of the summit mnewman@unews.com first day of the summit included the opened with the perspective of controversial “stop-question-frisk” Harold Pollack, co-director of
Hiral Patel
The Faculty Senate met Sept. 17 to discuss minor changes with the new general education core and other budgeting issues. This meeting consisted of 28 members from different areas of UMKC. This meeting was coordinated by Chair Peggy WardSmith. Two additional members of the senate, Gerald Wyckoff, associate professor of biology, and Anthony Luppino, professor of law, also spoke during the meeting. The Faculty Senate consists of seven committees: the Faculty Senate Executive Committee, Faculty Welfare Committee, Academic Issues Committee, Administrative Issues Committee, Faculty Senate Budget Committee, Committee on Organizational Structure and Community Outreach Committee and General Education Curriculum Committee. Ward-Smith started the meeting by addressing Dr. Thomas Menees, associate professor of biology, who replaced Dr. Anthony Persechini. She continued by acknowledging Dr. James Benevides’ new position as the representative from the School of Biological Sciences on the General Education Curriculum Committee. Wyckoff spoke about making minor changes to the descriptions on the UMKC General Education Core webpage. “Instead of Human Values and Ethical Reasoning, it will be called Human Actions, Values and Ethical Reasoning,” Wyckoff said. “Students will analyze, interpret and/or reconstruct human events, experiences, actions and interactions.” Wyckoff’s proposal was approved by the attending members of the Senate. Luppino spoke about the reserve funds. He also touched on the budget model for UMKC. All 11 of UMKC’s schools want an increase in funding, according to Luppino. The measure did not come to a vote. hpatel@unews.com
population:
Kansas City Crime Statistics Non-Emergency Calls 209,785
911 Fire Calls 17,271
459,787
108 total homicides
INSTAGRAM: UniversityNews
911 Misdials & Cellphone Hangups 171,563
Contributing Writer
Black Male 71
911 Call Center break down
911 EMS Calls 49,819
911 Police Calls 582,153 *in 2012
105 495 1662 11377 7011 16181 3674 270 535 1769 162 5224 16 166 14 2760 189 416 0 1 52
Motive Accidental Argument Domestic Violence Drug-Related Relation Robberty Other Unknown
Black Female 12
by race & gender
Hispanic Male 3
Offenses by divison Criminal Homicide Sex Offenses, Forcible Robbery Assualt Offense Burglary / Breaking and Entering Lacreny / Theft Offenses Motor Vehicle Theft Arson Counterfeiting/Forgery Fraud Offenses Embezzlement Vandalism / Destruction of Property Sex Offenses, Nonforcible Prostition Offense Pornography / Obscene Material Drug / Narcotic Offenses Stolen Property Offenses Weapon Law Violations Bribery Extortion / Blackmail Kidnapping / Abductions
in 2012
White Male 15 White Female 7
Means of Attack Firearm Stabbing Arson Trauma Other Unknown
1 22 8 4 2 8 5 58
90 4 33 4 1 0
83 total homicides in 2013 as of Sept. 22, 2013
176,547 total traffic citations
in 2012
DUI - Alcohol/Drugs Speed Signals/ SIgn Violations Failed To Yield Right-of-Way Seat Belt/Child Restraint Red Light Camera Maintain Financial Responsibility Drivers’s License Violation D.L. Violations Involved In Crash Other
SOURCE: http://www.kcmo.org/idc/groups/police/documents/adacct/annual2012final_loader.html
1,215 32,789 6,689 2,487 16,500 34,731 15,333 11,839 495 53,469
Graphic // Ashley Lane
Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
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INDUS Formal Brings Cuisine, Culture ALAS celebrates growth and Community to UMKC with music and traditions
Jessica Turner Senior Beat Writer Dressed in Indian attire, members and guests of INDUS arrived at the Masquerade Premier Event Hall for the organization’s formal dance event Sept. 21. “Tradition’s a huge thing for us, so this is something that we do every year,” INDUS Vice President Slesha Patel said. “We explain it as a wedding reception without anyone actually getting married. So everyone wears their nicest Indian outfit— whichever is their favorite—and there’s food and a lot of dancing.” Patel described INDUS as a campus organization of students who like to have fun, meet new people and promote Indian culture. The demonstration of culture at
INDUS Vice President Slesha Patel also serves as President for Alpha Phi Omega, whose members volunteered at the INDUS Formal on Sept. 20. Photo // Jessica Turner the formal included parallelism, traditional cuisine, colorful garments and exotic music. Entertainment was provided by DK Productions. Masalas Authentic Indian Bistro catered the event. Patel also serves as president of Alpha Phi Omega, a community service fraternity whose members volunteered to help plan, set up and decorate for the evening’s festivities. “The DJs mix it up a little bit, and they bring out an Indian drum called the dhol, and it’s really fun,” Patel said. “Basically, this is just a big dance party.” Last year, when Patel was president of INDUS, she coordinated a dance routine for the formal. Members of the executive board surprised guests by spontaneously breaking out into a flash mob on the dance floor. “I think we’re just a really, really fun organization, and I think that’s why a lot of people come out for it,” Patel said. Patel explained that the formal serves as a fundraiser for the group’s
DK Productions entertained guests of the INDUS Formal last Friday night, as guests showed off their dance moves to the sound of the dhol mixed with American and Indian music. Photo // Jessica Turner music. necessarily of Indian descent,” “We all come from different Veeramachaneni said. “I feel like majors, so we don’t always see each it’s going in the right direction, and other in classes,” Patel said. “So this hopefully we get more of that this is like our time to get together and year.” really relax and unwind.” INDUS prides itself on its level of The members of INDUS are activity at UMKC, and has several eager to welcome new members other things planned this year. to their organization, regardless “We’ll be doing a dance of background or genealogical performance at the Chancellor’s connections to India. Patel said Cultural Event in December, as well she wants all students to know the as UMKC Culture Night, which is group is not just for people with planned through the international Indian ancestry. students sometime in the spring,” “It’s really for anyone that’s willing Patel said. “We really try to get to eat Indian food, listen to Indian involved on campus.” music and get to know other people,” INDUS members believe the Patel said. more they participate, the more Atluri also wants students to comfortable students will feel getting
INDUS Formal members and guests arrived at the Masquerade Premier Event Hall, dressed in their favorite Indian outfits on Sept. 20. Photo // Jessica Turner know that there is room for everyone at INDUS. involved. INDUS Social Chair Alexis “INDUS is a great way to meet Vollmar suggests joining for the other people that are Indian — and opportunities to interact with not Indian — and it’s just a good fellow students. In addition to dance way to teach other people about our performances, Vollmar served as culture, which is something I really master of ceremonies for last year’s love about it,” Atluri said. talent show. “I just really like this organization,” Vollmar said. “It’s a lot of fun and it’s a great way to spend time with my peers from school … doing something I would have never normally done. It’s a great way to be culturally diverse.” The camaraderie was seen through the dancing and laughter of an array of students. Guests chatted with each other as the rhythms of the drums were blended over Matisyahu’s “King Without a Crown.” “A lot of the people of other cultures like to get to know the Indian culture — it’s really vibrant — and we like to incorporate a lot of their culture into Members gathered before the event to show off their favorite Indian our events, too,” INDUS member outfits and welcome guests to the INDUS Formal on Sept. 20. Photo // Jessica Turner Seenu Abraham said. upcoming annual talent show. To join INDUS, Patel recommends “I look forward to these events that students email the organization every year,” INDUS member Member Hima Veeramachaneni or find INDUS on Facebook. Her Himachandana Atluri said. “We have said she has enjoyed seeing a wider this formal, and then a talent show in variety of students in INDUS. She advice for prospective members is the spring, which is just this really noticed an exponential increase in to “be ready to get involved and be fun event [that features] Bollywood the group’s diversity last year and ready to dance and party, because we just like to have fun.” dance and other different cultural would like to see it continue. aspects.” “We try to incorporate a lot of jturner@unews.com In addition to various dance cultures … and try to bring other groups, Patel said the talent show people into INDUS that are not will also feature skits, singing and
ALAS members dance and socialize at the Fall Formal Friday, Sept. 20. Photo // Hiral Patel Hiral Patel Contributing Writer organization with many members. “When we first started, we only The Association of Latin American had four members,” said Benjamin Students at UMKC had its fall formal Campero, Student Government on Sept 20. Association president. “Now we have The formal started with an 12 officers, and 30 to 40 members. arrangement of traditional Latino Last year and two years ago, we were food, including rice, beans, chicken recognized as the most outstanding and fried plantains. Horchata, a organization at UMKC.” traditional Latino drink, was also Campero is an international served. student at UMKC. He showed his Vice President Idaima Calderon appreciation towards ALAS for taught students how to dance helping him succeed as a student, merengue to traditional and modern socially and academically. Latino music. Complete with a DJ, “I became the first Latino president the dance lesson allowed attendants of the student body at UMKC and to learn the different styles of dance. I could not have done it without ALAS is an organization that ALAS,” Campero said. assists Hispanic and Latino students Approximately 30 students with social and academic progress. attended the event. This organization helps develop ALAS holds many events “strength, unity, leadership and throughout the year. Meetings are professionalism among all students” at 7 p.m. Thursdays in room 301 by fulfilling the needs of the Latino of the Student Union. The next community at UMKC. Their goal is event is called Latinos Con Sabor, to make strong relationships with which means Latinos With Flavor, members and create leaders to make and is a celebration for Hispanic a difference for tomorrow. Heritage Month. It will be held at 7 ALAS wants to enhance the p.m. Oct. 24 in the Student Union. awareness of Latino culture to other Any students interested in learning students at UMKC. They encourage more about Hispanic heritage are all students to learn more about encouraged to attend. the diversity that appears in LatinAmerican lifestyles, and the different traditions they hold. hpatel@unews.com ALAS is a fast- growing
Challenge Encourages Social Entrepreneurship in UMKC Students Peter Makori Contributing Writer
The Aaron Levitt Social Entrepreneurship Challenge kicks off at 8 a.m. Sept. 27 in the Henry Bloch Executive Hall . The challenge, conducted by the Henry W. Bloch School of Management, creates an opportunity for UMKC students who have potential in social entrepreneurship. Rhonda Holman, an associate with the Health Care Foundation of Greater Kansas City, will be the keynote speaker. “This program provides an opportunity for UMKC students from any school to explore their innovative, self-sustaining and practical ideas which have social value to the community, to hone them and then put them into beneficial use to the local people,” said Cindy Laufer, program coordinator with the Midwest Center for Nonprofit Leadership at UMKC and challenge coordinator. The Challenge was started in 1988 in memory of Kansas City social entrepreneur, Aaron L. Levitt. His son, Jim Levitt, led family members in creating an endowment to establish a program that helps social entrepreneurs in the community harness their potential and skills for the greater good. After this week’s kickoff event there are a series of workshops held in the spring semester followed by a competition day on which winners are chosen. Laufer said ideas of participants will be keenly evaluated and a few will be selected to work
with legal experts who will help them turn their ideas into a viable enterprise. Selected ideas will be given a space at the Midwest Center for Nonprofit Leadership to move to the next level. “Last year, we had two Changemakers: ‘Tutorious’ and ‘EPEC - Empowering Parents to Empower Children,’” Laufer said. “The two were selected and we are working with our legal clinic at the Midwest Center for Nonprofit Leadership to set up their respective nonprofit organizations. This is a great exposure to the community and a very good forum for Changemakers to interact with community funders.” Jim Fisher, EPEC team leader, said his group’s mission is to help poor families in the community break the cycle of poverty by working with them to engage in activities that will provide them with livable wages. Laufer said that Tutorious benefits students in the community who may not normally access tutoring services. She said tutoring was an expensive exercise especially for underprivileged parents. The team conducts tutoring of students in a ratio of 1-to-1 or 1-to-5, instead of 1-to-20, for maximum results. “Tutoring helps students to prepare for their ACT and we found it beneficial to first-generation college students,” Laufer said. pmakori@unews.com
Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
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UMKC’s School Sociology Club of Law Celebrates Barbeque Kicks Constitution Day
Off Busy Year
world around them works, forming relationships with the department faculty and having meaningful service and leadership experiences for résumés. More information about the SC and any of its upcoming events can be obtained by contacting Faculty Advisor Dr. Ricardo Marte at (816) 235-6164 or marter@umkc.edu. jturner@unews.com
Courtesy // UMKC Hiral Patel
Contributing Writer
Professors Stephen Moore and Allen Roston of the School of Law gave a speech titled “A Historical Presentation on Constitutional Rights” highlighting the proposition of the Constitution. Constitution Day is a federal holiday proposed by Senator Robert Byrd in 2004 that recognizes the adoption of the U.S. Constitution and those who have become U.S. citizens. “We’re [as an educational institution] actually required by federal law to have a Constitution Day event every year,” Roston said. The Constitution was ratified in 1788 to show that the United States works as a whole to serve the people of the United States. “People tend to think of it as a
document that they see in a very positive light,” Roston said. “The purpose of Constitution Day is to remind people of the constitution … and also reflects that people don’t know enough about the constitution, they don’t know enough about our government.” This event, sponsored by the American Constitution Society, had an audience of more than 50 students. Pizza and refreshments were provided. Moore and Roston said they encourage and challenge students to think about the Constitution and take its importance into consideration. hpatel@unews.com
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17 and Nov. 12. The luncheons will Jessica Turner include pizza and conversations Senior Beat Writer based on video clip prompts The UMKC Sociology Club is surrounding the sociological hosting an extensive lineup of events implications of current events. this semester, including its kick-off For students interested in barbecue from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Sept. 25 sociology, the SC organizes on the Quad . The SC will offer food, workshops that help students games, prizes and information about survive key classes within the the sociology and anthropology major, from methods and statistics departments. to theory and capstone. The SC is President Kristina Gardner also a way for students to join Alpha described the SC as a group of Kappa Delta, the sociology students’ motivated students working to add honor society. to the interest in and knowledge of “I love the club because it gives sociology and anthropology studies you a way to participate on campus on campus. in a smaller setting with friendly “Everyone should feel welcome to people, but still make a big impact join us because we are constantly on campus life,” Gardner said. looking for people to help us come She added that the SC doesn’t put up with new events, ideas and much pressure on students to attend directions for the club — and that’s every event, but joining is a great way actually how we came up with the to make several friends in a short idea for the new events we’re doing amount of time. this year,” Gardner said. “I joined Sociology Club because The SC has scheduled several I wanted to be with others who events for the fall, including movie were studying the same major,” SC nights, workshops, discussions, member Cindy Marie said. “Also, I conferences and community action. wanted to know that I could make “We’ve had major success with our an impact here on campus and in the movie nights and panel discussions,” world.” Gardner said. The SC holds bi-monthly meetings The featured film this semester, from 2:30-3:30 p.m. on the second “G.I. Jane,” will be shown at 4 p.m. and fourth Fridays of every month in on Oct. 23. It will be followed by a Room 211 of Royall Hall. focused panel discussion about a “We invite students to come for national topic of investigation this either a half hour or stay the entire year — the increasing accounts time,” Gardner said. “The meetings of sexual assault on women in the are structured but totally laid back military. in how we discuss things and make As a charitable project, the SC will decisions.” host a food and clothing drive from Gardner explained that joining the Oct. 21 to Nov. 15, and will also hold SC has many benefits, such as getting sociological discussion luncheons to know more people on campus, from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Oct. learning about how the social
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NOT PICTURED ON MAP: September 18, 2:44pm — A man was arrested on a felony warrant after bringing a gun into the Dental School. September 18, 10:42 pm—Police transported an emotionally disturbed individual to receive treatment.
Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
International Students Attracted to Technology, Accreditation at Universities in United States
technologies coupled with excellent Sumanth Koushik Kalli research opportunities. Beat Writer “Regardless of what degree a In 2012, more than 700,000 student chooses to pursue in school, students from almost every country he or she will have to use computers around the world studied at higher and other technologies in order educational institutions in the U.S. to succeed,” Ashok Rudraraju, Indian students accounted for 13 computer science graduate student, percent of all international students. said. “This is what I love at U.S. Alekhya Boyapati, graduate universities.” electrical engineering student, According to Deborah Dilks , said this is likely due to academic department of computer science and institutions offering modern electrical engineering facilities which provide international program manager, American students chances to maximize the education is very accommodating to learning environment. each student’s needs. “If you want high quality education, “I am excited about the fact that I public or private, cold weather or can choose when to attend classes, hot, small or large campuses in big how many classes to enroll in each cities or small towns, then the U.S. semester or quarter, what elective may be your best choice,” Boyapati or optional classes to take, etc. ” said. Anudeep Varma Datla, graduate According to the Institute of electrical engineering student, said. Educational Sciences, the United “I wanted to be part of this incredibly States has more institutions of higher multicultural life in the USA and get learning with high quality academic the education that will best prepare bodies than any other country in the me for my future.” world. International students experience “Having highly qualified and different situations when it comes research oriented professors as to registering for classes and faculty members along with state functioning in the environment. of art technology labs and research “There were only two people groups is an added advantage to who could help them get registered enhance my knowledge here,” in three days’ time before classes Boyapati said. started so we were also stretched Based on reports by Homeland to the extreme,” Dilks said. “The Security, many students choose international students are here to study in the U.S. because of without their families, familiar the multitude of options and surroundings and support systems accreditation. from home. They tend to spend “A degree from a college or a lot more time with each other, university is useless if it is not developing close relationships, recognized by employers. Most helping each other cope with the new schools in the U.S. are accredited and culture. There are active community that is the reason for coming here,” organizations in the Kansas City said Poojitha Nandipati, graduate area that provide the students with a student in electrical engineering. touch of home with various cultural The U.S. is known for its latest events. ” technologies and advancement in technical fields which gives students skalli@unews.com firsthand knowledge of various
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Corrections from Issue 5: Miller Nichols was misspelled in the library article headline. Nick Sawin receives full credit for the Fishtank article photos.
Founder’s Week aims to hit the ground running literally Roze Brooks Co-Editor-in-Chief
Founders’ Week will commence on Sept. 28 and run through Oct. 5 in celebration of UMKC’s history. In observation of the university’s 80th anniversary, the UMKC Alumni Association has planned a week’s worth of events for alumni, current students, faculty and staff. The week-long event will kick off on Saturday, Sept. 28 with a featured wind symphony orchestra concert titled “The Planets”, held at 7:30 p.m. in Helzberg Hall of the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. Under the direction of Steven D. Davis, this major work is based on astrological characteristics of the seven planets in the solar system. The inaugural UMKC Regalia Run/Walk 5k and kids’ Kangaroo Hop will take place at 8 a.m. on Sunday Sept. 26 in Volker Campus Quad. Participants will complete a designated route through the campus, followed immediately after by a Graduation Block Party also held in the Quad. Proceeds from the Regalia Run support student scholarships at UMKC. To find out about other Founders’ Week events and learn more about UMKC’s history, check out http:// info.umkc.edu/foundersweek/ rbrooks@unews.com
SEGA INC. PRESENTS OPPORTUNITIES FOR UMKC STUDENTS Prannoy Kiran Contributing Writer Sega Inc. recently visited the School of Computing and Engineering through the School of Computing and Engineering’s Career Connections program, which is designed to give students a connection to their interest areas and a unique resource for discussing issues related to career choices. Beth Anne Medley, associate director of UMKC Career Services introduced the company and spoke about the bond between the company and university. “Many of our students are with Sega Inc. and we feel really good about it,” Medley said. Steph Whitehill from Sega Inc.’s Human Resources department briefed students with a few quick facts and history of the company. “Sega Inc. is an employee-owned company with over 160 employees that provides a broad range of services,” Whitehill said. “Sega Inc. is celebrating 40 years of serving the power industry. One thing that hasn’t changed over the last 40 years is our dedication to our clients and projects.” The company consists of several departments such as mechanical, civil, electrical and power delivery that offer a wide range of opportunities for students to have a hands-on experience. A few accomplished speakers shared their experiences with the students.
Students are presented with information about Sega Inc. “It’s really exciting to see the Photo // Prannoy Kiran things on paper being built in real,” to take care of the rules, regulations said Brian Petermann, who spoke and specifications to make sure it about Sega, Inc.’s mechanical, doesn’t roll down,” Petermann said. civil engineering and structural Air quality and environmental engineering areas. engineering was another section Civil engineering projects in discussed by Petermann covering Kansas City were discussed, which permitting, testing and monitoring made the subject matter directly as the primary parts of work. relatable to the audience. The designs “We have all the specialized showed how the company is involved programs to make sure that we are in all the design work and how civil building right kind of foundation,” engineers accomplish the projects. Petermann said. The storm water, wastewater Sega Inc. will be at the Career Fair and construction management Oct. 2. discussion gave students a more inpkiran@unews.com depth understanding of the process. “You can’t just build it. We need
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Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
6
Player Profile:
Freshman midfielder Emily Herndon Dan Moreno Senior Beat Writer
Herndon is all smiles at Durwood Stadium. Photo // Dan Moreno
Freshman midfielder Emily Herndon is playing her first season as a Kangaroo for the women’s soccer team and has already made a positive impact on the field. Herndon played soccer at Blue Valley Northwest High School, where she helped her team win the state title for the first time in school history, scoring four goals and one assist. Herndon said it’s nothing but an honor being incorporated into this season’s squad. “It is great – it is really exciting getting to play as a freshman,” Herndon said. “We have had some success so far and I am so happy to be on the team.” Some of Herndon’s teammates have moved from other states and even countries to play for UMKC, but Herndon is an Overland Park, Kan., native who has fit perfectly into Head Coach Chris Cissell’s lineup. “It’s great to say that this is home,” Herndon said. “My parents have been to every single game so far and it is an awesome feeling to have people who I know come to support me.” Speed, strength and control are some of Herndon’s contributions on the field, which is no surprise, considering that soccer runs through her veins. “I started playing soccer in kindergarten,” Herndon said. “Soccer is my life.” After a couple months as a Roo, Herndon said she feels at home and has already scored two goals. One goal was against University of Arkansas at Little Rock on Sept. 6, when she took a shot well outside the 18-yard box to beat the keeper. The
Locker room serves as home base for athletes
Photo // Dan Moreno be happier.” As the team heads to Seattle Friday Sept. 27 for a conference game against Seattle University, Herndon already set her goals for this season. “Winning is all we want,” Herndon said. “I want to help the team win in every possible way, scoring or assisting, but I will do my best to succeed this season.” dmoreno@unews.com
Lemon Thyme Chicken Salad
An inside look at one of the locker rooms in Durwood Stadium. equipped with high quality changing areas, bathrooms and showers, flat screens and blackboards. “I feel fortunate to have a locker room like this one,” Chiaparro said. “We did not have locker rooms in my other college and I know how hard is to get everyone together when you don’t have a locker room.” The locker rooms are located in the building north of Stanley H. Durwood’s Soccer Stadium and Recreational Field. The building hosts locker rooms
other one was in her first collegiate game, where she went on a 40-yard dribbling run up the middle of the field and deposited the deciding goal past the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville goalie. Both goals gave the Roos the victory against UALR and SIUE. “My teammates and coach have been really welcoming,” Herndon said. “I feel like we are a family. We have great team chemistry. I couldn’t
Health Recipe:
Dan Moreno Senior Beat Writer
The locker rooms usually have only one goal: to provide the athlete with a space to change clothes and get ready for a game or practice. The UMKC locker rooms, though, have a greater purpose. According to men’s soccer junior Jordan Rideout, the locker room is a “basic part of the team.” “This is our spot – the locker room is an important part for the team,” Rideout said. “This is where we get ready for games, sometimes we either play really loud music and get crazy or sometimes we just relax.” Student-athletes have access to the locker rooms at all times, which has made it feel like a place to do different activities. “If there are big Champions League games, we will all come and watch them here and root for our teams,” Rideout said. “Something I do a lot, and it’s a big thing for me, is put together lots of stools and make a big bed to take long naps.” For junior Tato Chiaparro, the locker room is the key to success for the team. “The locker room is where you start winning games,” Chiaparro said. “This is where the players come together as a family, this is where we focus, talk, relax and get pumped before and after games.” UMKC’s locker rooms are
Herndon has already scored two goals for the Roos.
Photo // Dan Moreno for men’s and women’s soccer, track and field and softball, as well as offices for the respective coaching staffs and a conference room. The Durwood Foundation built the locker rooms in 2009, which was another gift in its long history of UMKC support initiatives.
Cut the chicken breast into thin Lindsay Adams slices. Sprinkle slices with kosher Senior Beat Writer salt. Mix the olive oil, thyme and Lemon Thyme Dressing pepper in a pan on medium heat 5 tsp. olive oil for about one minute, then add the 1 tsp. lemon juice chicken. Cook until tender, about 1/2 tsp. thyme seven minutes. Remove from pan and 1/4 tsp. cumin refrigerate. 1/4 tsp. pepper Whisk together the ingredients 1/2 tsp. salt for the dressing in a separate bowl and refrigerate. Salad Mix the ingredients for the salad 2 cups lettuce, sliced in a medium bowl and toss with 2 Roma tomatoes, chopped the chilled dressing. Then add the 1 cucumber, cubed chicken slices. One recipe makes 1 small onion, loosely chopped two servings. Each serving clocks in 1 boneless skinless chicken breast at about 253 calories and 16 grams of 1 tsp. olive oil protein. 1/4 tsp. thyme 1/8 tsp. pepper 1 dash kosher salt ladams@unews.com
dmoreno@unews.com
Illustration // Joey Hill
Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
7
Player of the Week awards:
Tato Chiaparro and Sylvester Yiadom Dan Moreno Senior Beat Writer
For their performances Sept. 1315, the Western Athletic Conference honored juniors Tato Chiaparro and Sylvester Yiadom with Player of the Week awards after helping the men’s soccer team to one win and one tie in Dallas, Texas. Chiaparro scored the goal that helped the Roos get the tie against No. 13 Tulsa in the 80th minute in a game that ended 1-1 on Friday night. He scored the lone goal that gave Coach Rick Benben’s team the victory over Southern Methodist University Sunday night. Thanks to his performance, Chiaparro was awarded both the SMU Invitational Co-Tournament MVP and the WAC Offensive Player of the Week. “I am happy,” Chiaparro said. “It is great to be awarded. I was trying to score a goal and help the team
Sylvester Yiadom
Tato Chiaparro and that’s what I did. I am just very happy because everybody worked hard. We played great and got the results we wanted.” Yiadom won the WAC Defensive Player of the Week award after leading the team to a shutout win against SMU and the tie with Tulsa. Yiadom helped UMKC to a 0.45 goals against average. “Any time I get recognized I get hungrier,” Yiadom said. “I take it as an encouragement to keep working hard and I want to thank my teammates who always support me on and off the field.” It was the first career honor for both players and the first for UMKC as members of WAC. The Kangaroos will be on the road this week again as they face Omaha Sept. 24 at 7 p.m. and Drake this Saturday, Sept. 28, at 7 p.m. in nonconference games. dmoreno@unews.com
Above: Yiadom displays his skills on the field. Below: Chiaparro works up a sweat during a game.
Chiefs Hit the Ground Running
Photo // USA Today Players celebrate third straight win over the Philadelphia Eagles by dumping Gatorade on Head Coach Andy Reid on Thursday, Sept. 19. The Chiefs’ statistics this year are Matt Melson hard to argue: having no turnovers so Broadcast Assistant far, being number one in sacks in the The Kansas City Chiefs have league and having a higher red zone started this season 3-0, winning percentage. more games in three weeks than they “It’s important, but there’s still a did all of last year. lot of season left,” Reid said. “There’s With the addition of new Head no time to relax on what you have Coach Andy Reid and the new, pass- done.” heavy offense Reid is implementing, It seems that the team is meshing the Chiefs have found their way to well this season and is actually victories. The Chiefs have also found playing like a team. The 3-0 record a new superstar quarterback Alex doesn’t seem to be affecting any of Smith, who has played error-free so the players’ egos either. far this season. Smith and the Chiefs “It doesn’t matter what everyone as a whole have not turned the ball else thinks,” linebacker Justin over once. Houston said. “We’re just going to Even after the Chiefs beat their keep rolling. We’re on a mission. We first opponent, the Jacksonville have a bigger goal in mind.” Jaguars, 28-2 in the first week, many Looking to the future, the Chiefs were still skeptical of the team’s new will have a tough couple of weeks strategy. That doubt has slowly been ahead of them but analysts are very erased with winning against both optimistic. Some analysts have said the Dallas Cowboys 17-16 and the they wouldn’t be surprised if the Philadelphia Eagles 26-16 in weeks Chiefs were 7-1 by their scheduled two and three. week off in week 10. Although the Chiefs’ season has Despite uncertainties, Chiefs been more successful than last fans all over are excited to see this year, the next leg of their schedule team doing well again. Time will will test whether this team will tell whether Reid’s team is a playoff be a true playoff contender. With contender, but fans are just happy to games against the New York Giants see more W’s up in the win column. and the Tennessee Texans quickly approaching, the Chiefs will have to mmelson@unews.com be on their A-game.
Photos // UMKC Athletics
Health Journal:
Eating and Exercise
Lindsay Adams Senior Beat Writer Leslie Bonci, director of sports nutrition at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and a certified specialist in sports dietetics, explained in an interview with The New York Times, “Your food is just like your running shoes or your skis. It really is the inner equipment. If you think of it this way, you usually have a better outcome when you’re physically active.” Eating too little before a work out can deplete energy quicker since the body does not have enough fuel to sustain itself. However, eating too much can load a person down, and require exercising twice as long to work off the extra calories. It is suggested that if eating before exercising, it should be done an hour before. When working out, one should also make sure to drink plenty of water after and during two cups of fluids for each pound lost during exercise is recommended. Many people work out and then indulge themselves with food right after, which is good as long as the workout has lasted at least 45 minutes. Otherwise most likely, more calories will be consumed after the workout than were lost during. Dr. John L. Ivy, a professor of kinesiology at the University of Texas at Austin and sports nutrition researcher, told The New York Times in a separate article that eating foods with protein prolongs muscle priming, allowing the body time to store more fuel and giving exercisers more energy for the bout of exercise. Sports nutrition expert Christine Rosenbloom, nutrition professor at Georgia State University explained to WebMD that the most important foods after exercise are good carbohydrates, lean proteins, healthy fats and fluids. Carbohydrates such as breads, cereals, pasta, rice, fruits and vegetables give a fast boost of energy, but protein helps the body long term. Protein is necessary because it helps create healthy blood cells, which give nutrients and oxygen to muscles while they are employed. “Foods provide the gas to the body’s engine, and fluids provide the water to your body’s radiator,” Rosenbloom said. “Without these crucial fuels and fluids, your body will have a hard time performing at its best.” After a workout, the body needs protein in order to recuperate. The best time for the muscles to get that protein is soon after the workout. If working out at the gym, a protein shake is the easiest option. If close to home, there are many different meals that can fit the nutrition bill. The muscles especially need protein in order to grow. Protein is necessary, but not in excessive amounts. “Whatever you choose, more isn’t better - only 10 to 20 grams of protein is needed to provide amino acids [the building blocks of protein] to muscles,” Rosenbloom said. ladams@unews.com
Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
8
THE RECRUITME Compliance with NCAA Regulations
Rallying in
Kate Baxendale Copy Editor Dan Moreno Senior Beat Writer As a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, UMKC must abide by the institution’s rules regarding recruitment. That’s where Robert Greim, director of compliance, steps in. “The job of an NCAA compliance officer is to educate the athletic staff, and then we monitor and report anything related to the NCAA rulebook,” Greim said. Greim thumbed through the latest version of the book, which contains hundreds of specific bylaws. Bylaw 13, the section covering recruitment, spans 60 pages and outlines the ins and outs of recruiting potential student athletes, or PSAs. The compliance department at every NCAA affiliated institution must stay current with frequently changing regulations. Compliance officers attend a biannual regional rules seminar where the NCAA national office educates the officers. “It’s exhausting,” Greim said. “Each sport has a pretty powerful lobby. There’s a coaches association that tries to speak with the voice of the coaches to the NCAA. Whenever a new bylaw is made, they try to base it on the best interest of the student athlete with some pretty strong input from that coaching lobby. My job is to make sure that they [coaches] are aware of these [bylaws] and that they follow them.” Greim was interrupted by a phone call from a PSA calling to ask for guidance through the recruitment process. “We answer questions from PSAs about how to move forward in their situation,” Greim said. “Every situation is different.” Greim used a texting bylaw as an example of how the NCAA rulebook is always evolving. Years ago, students serving on the StudentAthlete Advisory Committee decided coaches should not be allowed to text PSAs. As technology progressed, student athletes began to prefer texting as a primary form of communication. In the past two years, men’s and women’s basketball have adapted texting as a way for coaches to contact PSAs. “If there are rules that are unenforceable and inconsequential, let’s look at relaxing them a little bit,” Greim said. “Hopefully they will do away with that [bylaw] for all sports by next year. We aren’t getting a leg up on anyone by texting a PSA.” The office of compliance holds monthly meetings with the
NCAA Recruiting Chart
Division 1 Men’s Basketball Sophomores Recruiting Materials - June 15 at the conclusion of sophomore year. Telephone Calls - At institution’s discretion beginning June 15 following sophomore year.
Juniors
Off-Campus Contact - Opening day of classes for PSA’s junior year, subject to recruiting calendar. - Junior year contacts outside of the April recruiting period may occur only at the PSA’s educational institution.
- If PSA’s educational institution follows a nontraditional calendar, at institution’s discretion beginning day after conclusion of sophomore year.
- Junior year contacts during the April recruiting period may occur at the PSA’s educational institution or residence. Official Visit - January 1 of the junior year.
Evaluations and Contracts
130 recruiting-person days during academic year. - Not more than seven recruiting opportunities (contacts and evaluations combined) per year.
- Practice/competition site restrictions. - All communication prohibited during a certified event.
Division 1 Women’s Basketball Juniors
Recruiting Materials - September 1.
Telephone Calls - At institution’s discretion beginning Sept. 1 of the junior year. Off-Campus Contact - Opening day of classes for PSA’s junior year, subject to recruiting calendar.
- Junior year contacts may occur only at the PSA’s educational institution or residence. Official Visit - No earlier than the Thursday following the NCAA Division I - Women’s Basketball Championship game of the PSAs junior year in high school.
Evaluations and Contracts 112 recruiting-person days during academic year. - Not more than seven recruiting opportunities (contacts and evaluations combined) per year. - Practice/competition site restrictions.
- All communication prohibited during the July evaluation periods. - Evaluations at nonscholastic events and noninstitutional camps or clinics that occur on a Division I campus are prohibited.
SOURCE: http://www.ncaa.org/wps/wcm/connect/public/ncaa/resources/recruiting+calendars/division+i/overview+chart athletics department in order to review NCAA rules. Additionally, Greim meets one-on-one with each sport’s coaches to ensure they are abiding by the rules. Greim relies on self-reports in order to catch potential violations. “Paperwork, if properly filled out, will prevent violations,” Greim said. “Before a team goes out of town, the coaches must fill out the full itinerary. Our official campus visit forms are some of our best forms for catching violations before they happen. We have even shared this form with other schools.” The official campus visit forms must be completed prior to a PSA coming to UMKC. The form includes questions such as duration of stay, which cannot exceed 48 hours and other questions designed to catch violations in advance. Greim explained the concept of institutional control, which combines the work of several different departments on campus. “When a school joins the NCAA, it’s not just the athletic department,”
Greim said. “The entire school has agreed to abide by the NCAA rules. Compliance monitors things within the department, and then we also have people monitoring outside department, like in financial aid, the registrar, admissions and the International Student Affairs Office. Athletics doesn’t want to tell a student whether or not a student is admitted to our school. It’s not our call. That’s a job for admissions.” The NCAA differentiates the severity of rule violations based on four levels. A level one violation is an intentional violation of the rules, while a level four violation is a minor offense. “What you want to have is level three and level four violations, which sounds odd,” Greim said. “These are healthy.” Greim cited a level four violation he made when he did not submit a squad list on time. Another example of a lower level violation is an unofficial campus visit during a dead period. A dead period is a time in which college coaches may not have
any face-to-face contact with a PSA or their parents, and they may not watch the athlete compete. Last year, UMKC made 15 lower level violations, four of which involved text messaging. UMKC also filed 10 legislative relief waivers, which request permission to break a rule under special circumstances. “Bylaw 11.1.2.1 has been around for a while, but this year is a little more intense,” Greim said. “It states that the head coach is responsible for the actions of everyone on their staff. The head coach cannot shift the blame to the assistant coach in case of a violation. So now we’re getting intimate. We review practice logs, phone logs, waivers and other paperwork to make sure there aren’t any red flags. We rely on those selfreports.” Greim was on track to become a football coach at Missouri State University, where he was the video coordinator for the team as an undergraduate. “One coach asked me why I wanted to be a coach, and I told him
I love the sport,” Greim said. “And the coach said, ‘But look at what we go through. Look at my resume. I move all the time. I haven’t seen my wife in five months’. So it was ironic that a coach actually talked me out of coaching.” Greim worked in academic support for athletics for seven years, but he said it did not suit him. The work hours in compliance allow for a much healthier life balance, he said. “Being in compliance, I think I can still affect the student athlete experience from a policy standpoint,” Greim said. Greim gives presentations to area high schools about the recruitment process to better prepare PSAs for a career in college athletics. “The information is out there,” Greim said. “It’s available to students so they know what it takes to become eligible, so they know what a college coach can and cannot do during each year of high school.”
From Tiger to Kangaroo: Hartsel’s Journey to becoming a Student Athlete Melissa Hartsel, a junior on the volleyball team, said she would have benefited from something like the presentations Greim gives to high school students. Hartsel transferred to UMKC from the University of Missouri after playing volleyball there for two years. “It was pretty overwhelming,” Hartsel said. “The town I come from is really small. We’ve had some athletes go Division I, but I had never heard about how the recruiting process goes.”
Hartsel said college coaches began pursuing her as a sophomore in high school. She mostly received recruitment emails at first, but the pursuit intensified when she began playing for a competitive club volleyball team her junior year. “Now that I look back at it I wish I would have considered my options more clearly, because I transferred,” she said. Hartsel visited the University of Missouri and Kansas State University to see if she could envision herself as
a student athlete at either campus. Hartsel was set on attending a large university, and the atmosphere at Mizzou was an ideal match. She made a verbal commitment to the University of Missouri as a junior. “I was a hard-headed little teenager and I told them I would not go back on my word,” Hartsel said. “Sometimes when coaches recruit players, they put on a front. I don’t want to trash talk the coaches at Mizzou, but they put on a big front. I know it was like that for a lot of the
other players too.” Hartsel said out of the eight players who joined the volleyball team at Mizzou last year, only three players returned for this season. After her second season as a Tiger, Hartsel sent a text message to her coach asking to be released to several other universities. The NCAA rules state that a coach must release a player if requested. Hartsel spoke with compliance before contacting her coach to confirm her rights as a student-athlete.
“I just went to a meeting about teamwork, about lifting each other up when something goes wrong,” Hartsel said. “I had never heard any of that until I came here. It was always you do what you have to do to win. It was never about the team, which I think is a great thing to pay attention to.” Hartsel heard about an opening for a middle hitter at UMKC through Alex Muff, current teammate Skyler Muff’s older sister who played volleyball at Kansas State. Skyler
Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
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MENT PROCESS:
the Roos contacted Hartsel and told her to add UMKC to her release list. Hartsel then got a phone call from Head Coach Christi Posey asking her to visit the campus.
“Walking around campus with the coaches made me realize that they are genuinely nice people,” Hartsel said. “They are the type of people I wish I had played for my first two
years.” Hartsel said the coaches at UMKC sold her on becoming a Roo, and she is happy with her decision to transfer.
“Definitely don’t be fooled by big names, and make sure you don’t jump the gun and commit right away,” Hartsel said. “Look at all your options because it’s good to have
something to compare each program to.”
The Kangaroos Boast Diversity: Creating Valuable Connections Abroad UMKC has a large variety of student athletes from different countries around the world. Though each are a part of the Kangaroo family, their experiences in sporting the blue and yellow are inherently different. Some players received formal invitations to play for UMKC, but there are also students who went through a tryout process and then were selected. Sylvester Yiadom, a junior on the men’s soccer team entering his third
season playing for UMKC, had to travel to Kansas City from overseas. “Three years ago I was playing academy soccer back home in Ghana,” Yiadom said. “There were American schools looking at us and I really wanted to come to the U.S. to go to school and also play soccer. Luckily for me Coach Benben agreed to bring me to UMKC.” Head Coach Rick Benben liked what he saw in Yiadom, and contacted the head coach at the school in Ghana, who offered a
recommendation based on Yiadom’s athletic performance. . “Recruitment lots of times is all about connections between coaches. That’s how I ended up here,” Yiadom said. For Yiadom and many other international student athletes, the International Student Affairs Office takes care of the process and paperwork required to study at UMKC, while Greim is responsible for the NCAA eligibility process. Becoming a student athlete at
UMKC isn’t as simple for other players. . Men’s soccer player Tato Chiaparro, who is playing his first season with the Roos, was not approved by the NCAA at first. “I had to go through a really hard process. At first NCAA denied my application,” Chiaparro said. “Without Greim’s help I don’t think I would be playing for UMKC today.” Chiaparro was initially denied even though he played for Lewis and Clark Community College last season because he did not attend
a university immediately after graduating from high school in Brazil. “After explaining every detail to NCAA and answering to all of their questions regarding my situation, I was then approved and eligible to play Division I soccer for Coach Benben,” Chiaparro said.
A Coach’s Perspective with Kendall Hale—International Squads ‘a Recipe for Success’ Kendall Hale, head coach of men’s and women’s tennis, has been coaching for 20 years. He provided his input about the art of recruiting international tennis players. “First you have to understand that the popularity of tennis in the United States is probably in the teens, like 13, 14,” Hale said. “In the world, it’s top four. It’s more of a world sport. When the top universities here in the states get the best U.S. players, what we have to do is find some of the best talent outside the U.S. sometimes to compete with the best of Division I.” Hale explained the importance of having contacts within the tennis community in order to recruit players with the best potential. “Pipelines are like when I was at Rockhurst, we had New Zealand pipeline,” Hale said. “Players would go back and tell players who would
Illustration // Joey Hill
tell other players. I always had the top nationally ranked New Zealand players at Rockhurst.” The tennis program has players from Greece, Belarus, Australia, Germany, Mexico, Brazil, Kuwait and more. “It adds a cool culture to our teams,” Hale said. “I’ve gotten to learn about more countries by just having their players than from actually visiting those countries, and it’s really fun for me to get the different languages and cultures and learn from them.” Most recently, Hale recruited Dimitra Stavrianakou, who is ranked No.4 in Greece, No.69 in Europe for under age 16 and No.743 in the International Tennis Federation. Hale said he has no tennis contact in Greece, but Stavrianakou is friends with Uldis Gaismins of Latvia from the men’s team, which is how she
learned about UMKC. Hale said a good friend of his in Florida had watched Stavrianakou at his tennis academy, and referred Stavrianakou to Hale. “I checked her rankings and looked at her videos,” Hale said. “And that’s all I needed. A lot of times, I can never have met the person until the day they arrive on the plane. Tennis is a little more objective because I have rankings to go by. With other sports like soccer, it’s through word of mouth. It’s a little more subjective.” Hale said tennis recruiting is widely internet-based. He will often email players back and forth, watch recruitment videos and check rankings online. Hale said he receives between 20 and 30 recruitment emails a day from agencies, some of which he trusts and others he does not.
“Each sport has its own individual recruiting style, and that just happens to be tennis recruiting style,” Hale said. Hale said he never has trouble convincing international players to compete at a university in the U.S. “They don’t get to play college sports over there, and it’s a unique opportunity for them to continue their athletics with their education,” Hale said. “I love selling Kansas City. We’re right in the heart and it’s close to the Plaza, so it’s a great sell.” Hale also promises PSAs the opportunity to create their own history at UMKC, since the university does not have a rich history in athletics. “It’s a great selling point for me,” Hale said. “Athletes having a good experience at a university goes further than anything. It’s like good
customer service. It’s a smaller world in the tennis community so if word gets out “don’t go there, it’s a bad experience” then it would really mess you up.” Hale said with all the international players he coaches, his sarcasm and sense of humor doesn’t always translate. “The better I get to know my players, the better I can coach them,” Hale said. “I’m a psychology major, so we do a lot of personality inventories and things like that to really dig down because I don’t coach anyone the same way.” kbaxendale@unews.com dmoreno@unews.com
Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
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Arts and Sciences Student Council hosts Mumford & Sons finally “Night at the Observatory” at Warko Jessica Turner Senior Beat Writer
The Arts and Sciences Student Council (ASSC) hosted a string of events last week, including “Night at the Observatory,” where students gathered to take advantage of the Warkoczewski Observatory. Located on the roof of Royall Hall, Warko is open on every clear Friday night and is free to the public. ASSC University Liaison Stephen Tran was among the sky gazers. “We’ve had this set in place for weeks and we just completely lucked out,” Tran said. Warko Operations Manager Joe Wright and other members of the Astronomical Society of Kansas City (ASKC) explained the objects in the
Students can get a close-up view of the moon every clear Friday when they visit Warko on the roof of Royall Hall. Photo // Jessica Turner night sky. Wright said students were able to view the moon, Vega, Venus, a ring of nebulae and Saturn with one of its moons, Titan.
Warko’s main telescope is a handmade 16-inch Newtonian reflector built by Stanley Warkoczewski, who donated it to UMKC in 1964. “It’s a really fabulous scope,” Wright said. Wright was resident of the ASKC for seven years before he came to Warko, and he said he is passionate about helping observers understand the night sky. His primary goal is to make the experience both educational and fun, so he used analogies about jars of peas and drunk drivers to put complicated ideas into perspective for the average person. He and the other members of ASKC work with Girl Scouts to help them understand the universe. “I like relating it to people,” Wright said. “It’s like when I’m with the Girl Scouts and I can just see that moment when the light bulb goes off. Or even an adult. If you make people understand it, they’re not going to be intimidated. They’re going to enjoy it.” The main reason Tran decided to host the ASSC event at Warko was to raise awareness of the observatory’s existence. “I’ve heard about it — and I’ve had a lot of classes down in Royall Hall, so I always see the flyers — but I’ve never really heard a friend say they’re into it,” Tran said. “So I was like, you know, we have a fantastic observatory right here on campus. And if we get the word out on this, I mean, there we go, that’s a hobby that people can do, from physics students to just anybody that doesn’t even know anything about it.” The ASKC has approximately six members who regularly volunteer at Warko on Friday nights. In addition to Wright, Denise Moser, Heather Spinelli and John Fitzgerald were helping students use the equipment and point out notable objects in space at this event. “We always have fun up here, but I feel like so many more people could take advantage of it, you know, if the word of mouth got out,” Spinelli said. Although the university
takes the stage in KC
Lindsay Nelson Broadcast Assistant
“Wilson,” the 14-lb. meteorite from Argentina is made of nearly pure iron. contributes to the funding at Warko, Photo // Jessica Turner members of ASKC also contribute meteorites aren’t found or go for new equipment and even bring unnoticed until something happens their own, including tripods, a moon like the meteor strike in Russia map and laptops with software to earlier this year. help users identify stars, planets and “A lot of them pass between us constellations. and the moon,” Wright said. “That’s Wright introduced Tran to a pretty close in the astronomical special friend of his named Wilson, sense. That’s why it’s important to a 14-pound space rock that landed in look up.” Argentina. The meteorite is made up This fall, several shows in the of nearly pure iron. sky will take place, such as the “It fell from space,” Wright said. ISON comet. For more information, “And there’s tons of it all the time follow the Warkoczewski Public falling. But our planet is mostly water, Observatory on twitter or visit the and a large portion uninhabited.” UMKC physics website. Wright explained that many jturner@unews.com
Astronomical Society of Kansas City Member Heather Spinelli assists a student in spotting nebulae in space last Wednesday atop Royall Hall’s roof. Photo // Jessica Turner
UMKC celebrates first Family Weekend Erin Melrose Broadcast Assistant Family Weekend kicked off Sept. 20 and consisted of three days packed with house tours, Royals games and the Plaza Art Fair. Students welcomed their families to an inside look at collegiate life. As a common ritual in the Greek community, students and each family member are given T-shirts representing their respective sorority or fraternity at the house kick-off, which also includes group pictures. Alpha Delta Pi, one of UMKC’s four sororities, invited its sisters to mingle before heading to an evening at Kauffman Stadium. In typical Greek fashion, the community is tight-knit and extremely secretive as to the inside workings of each chapter. Upon initiation, members are given a strict code of ethics pertaining to information allowed to share as well as what needs to remain sacred. This was no exception at Family Weekend. Flyers were given to each family member depicting scheduled events and the importance of secrecy as a member by association to the chapter. “Alpha Delta Pi holds the distinction of being the first secret society in the world for college women,” read the handout. Each girl maintained her loyalty to the sisterhood and refused to comment on the weekend’s activities.
Students and parents pose in their Greek attire during family weekend Sept. 19-21. Cameras flashed as the girls proudly lined the steps of the ADPi house to take pictures and celebrate another successful Greek event. The lawn began to fill as members poured in ready to cheer on the Royals. When the mingling began to subside, some
families left for the Plaza Art Fair and some headed to UMKC for their own personal tour. Family Weekend in the Greek world at UMKC is currently planned within each chapter. Fraternity and sorority affairs are working on
Photo // Erin Melrose
getting Greek life to plan a universal Family Weekend for all chapters. This will most likely be in full effect next year. emelrose@unews.com
After postponing the show more than two months ago, Mumford & Sons finally made it to town Sept. 20 to deliver a phenomenal final performance in Bonner Springs, Kan. at the Cricket Wireless Amphitheater. The show was completely sold out. At a venue that can hold 18,000 people, there was almost no empty space in the sea of adoring fans—or the parking lot. The weather was perfect, and Marcus Mumford and his boys took the stage promptly at 9 p.m. The band played a large survey of songs, both new and old. The audience was clearly pleased with the overall performance. The soul the musicians convey with each and every note they perform is worth paying any ticket price to see. The utter joy they seemingly have for music engulfed everyone in the amphitheater. They goofed around and swapped instruments between each other. Poking fun at banjo player Winston Marshall about his inability to be a drummer, the band had “WINSTON IS NOT A DRUMMER” posted in lights on stage. Mumford insisted it be in the biggest font possible. It was a performance straight out of the fantasies of concertgoers everywhere. However, the band announced halfway through the show that they were going on hiatus. “We’re just going to rest up,” keyboardist Ben Lovett said. Rescheduling the concert was caused by the news that bassist Ted Dwayne had to undergo emergency brain surgery in June. It is understandable that the musicians feel compelled to take some time off to relax. Have no fear Mumford & Sons fans, Marcus gave the audience a glimmering promise of new music. “We gotta write some new stuff, yeah?” he said with a soft laugh and a gentle strum to one of his twin Martin D28 guitars. Mumford & Sons may be taking a break, but it is a temporary one. lneslon@unews.com
Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
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“The Rainmaker” “Venus in Fur” strikes at the MET hurts so good any punches with Lindsay Adams scenes that make Senior Beat Writer the audience cringe “The Rainmaker,” a dramedy by in embarrassment N. Richard Nash, is a welcomed just watching the of shower of local talent. The show humiliation is thoroughly entertaining and certain characters. Ultimately, it poses engrossing. It is set in a small Midwestern a choice between town suffering from drought. The dreams and reality. Lizzy constantly show opens with Lizzy (Jessalyn herself, Kincaid) returning from an attempt doubts by her father and brothers to play feeling she doesn’t matchmaker, disguised as a trip. She fit in with her is already considered a spinster, and intelligence and toher father and brother desperately to the-point manner. marry her off. She has just returned She has been told before they try to get single Deputy she is plain for so File (Tim Ahlenius) to come over long she doesn’t for dinner in the hopes he and Lizzy believe that she will hit it off. Lizzy’s eldest brother has much to offer Noah (Jason Miller) wants to stop anyone. Kincaid is trying and leave her alone, but her optimistic father H. C. (Scott transcendent in her Cordes) and younger brother Jim depiction of Lizzy. She brings to life (Kyle Dyck) are sure it will work. However, their plan is complicated a character with movement by a drifter, Starbuck (Forest huge Attaway), who bursts upon the and growth that the scene, promising he can get them audience watches completely From Right: Kyle Dyck as Jimmy and Jason Miller as rain for a $100 fee. Literally bursting be and Noah. into the house, he immediately takes broken Photo // Bob Paisley control of the room, dividing the humiliated, before starting to slowly believe in herself part. Ahlenius as File had a deadpan family even more. The story is powerful and walks a and feel beautiful. The audience delivery which served him well in the thin line dealing with heartbreaking watches as Lizzy blossoms in front comedic moment, and he managed moments of loneliness next to scenes of their eyes. Kincaid perfectly to pull off the more sincere, dramatic of straight comedy. Raw and visceral portrays this emotional and physical moments fairly well. emotions are opened and left bare. transformation. Costume design by Atif Rome Attaway was the perfect mix of said quite a bit with relatively few It asks compelling questions about personal identity with humor and sleazy and sincere as fast-talking pieces. The styling and costuming depth. “The Rainmaker” doesn’t pull flim-flam man Starbuck. He showed of Lizzy was essential to making her the character’s transition believable. immaturity, leading The set design by Karen Paisley, him to live on who directed as well, was beautifully dreams alone, but set up and used the space perfectly, also glimpses of his with one set managing to portray potential. the Curry home, the sherriff’s office Dyck put in and the Tack house. A lower level an enthusiastic thrust allowed for a flexible space to performance as a act out different locations. The stage sweet but touchy direction and set blended seamlessly, dreamer who is a creating for the most part fluid few logs short of a and realistic movement with clear roaring fire. Cordes indications of changing space from as H. C. Curry scene to scene. pulls a lot out of a The scenes between the sherriff character who and File in the first act were the only could have been ones that interrupted the flow of the overly simplified, show. They suffered from some over bringing out his direction. The excessive blocking amiable nature took away from what are relatively coupled with a straightforward comedy scenes. deep care for his “The Rainmaker” runs through children. Miller as Oct. 6 at the Metropolitan Ensemble Noah Curry had a Theatre. Ticket information can be great intensity, but found at their website, http://www. punctuated it with metkc.org/. too much shouting, which didn’t allow ladams@unews.com for much character depth. Bob Paisley as Sherriff Thomas From Left: Forest Attaway as Starbuck and Jessalyn was entertaining in Kincaid as Lizzie. Photo // Bob Paisley the mostly bit
Photo // Cynthia Levin, Unicorn Theatre Vanessa Severo and Rusty Sneary play Vanda and Thomas in ‘Venus in Fur.’ an interrogation where Wanda Lindsay Adams mercilessly pokes holes in his Senior Beat Writer characterizations and storyline. The “Venus in Fur” at the Unicorn power constantly shifts back and Theatre is a clever and sophisticated forth between the two characters, show that keeps the audience until finally, Wanda directs him handcuffed to its seats. It is a around the stage with vicious, nonstop twisting and turning game despotic joy that could put the most of deceit and domination that hits totalitarian of directors to shame. like a punch in the gut. The play builds to the climax Thomas Novachek (Rusty Sneary) without any moment of respite for is a playwright-turned-director of his the audience who is held in constant own adaptation of the novel “Venus suspense. Even the slowest moments in Furs,” who is still searching for the of the play are kept tight with sexual right actress to play the lead, Wanda, tension. Slowly the show tears in his play. He is demoralized after a away all façades, leaving only the long series of terrible auditions and harsh naked structures of power is about to call it a day when Wanda underneath which are gradually (Vanessa Severo) dramatically destroyed. bursts through the door. She begs for Severo owns the stage as Wanda, an audition even though she is late, from her entrance with a hilariously arguing that she is perfect for the despairing stream of profanities to part since she even shares the name her imperious finish. Her exaggerated of the character. He warns her, “You performance starts to make sense as don’t want to read for me right now,” it becomes apparent Wanda is not but is shoved into giving her a shot. who she seems to be, but is putting Once he hears her read, however, on an act. Severo is able to switch he is sucked into her performance, from intellectual to ignorant, cerebral reading and acting out the show to crude, and disaster to dominatrix with her. in the bat of an eye. Thomas realizes more about It is a testament to Sneary’s himself and his script with every line presence and skill that his character he reads. He thinks he has written holds his own with the much more a work subverting traditional ideas flamboyantly written character of of power and gender when instead Wanda. He offsets her comedic he is just perpetuating them. He characterization with a subtle and considers himself open-minded and sardonic performance. thinks he has insight into the female The show is mesmerizing, with mind, when clearly from the way he outstanding performances and discusses actresses, that is anything direction. Solid design work from but true. He deems the actresses costume designer Georgianna he has seen crude and desperate, Buchanan, lighting designer Alex but once he reads with Wanda, Perry, sound designer Michael Heuer he is completely uncomfortable and set designer Jason Coale supports and becomes just as uncertain and the show, and fantastic direction inarticulate. from Cynthia Levin cements “Venus As they go through the show, in Fur” as a must-see. slowly the traditional ideas of gender “Venus in Fur” runs through Sept. roles as well as the power roles of 29. Contact the Unicorn Theatre at director and actress start to blur. 816-531-7529 for ticket information. The dynamics of power and sex constantly fluctuate. Questions ladams@unews.com about the script quickly turn into
Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
“In a World” where one woman can do it all Triple threat Lake Bell impresses with feature directing debut
subtle ways the audience starts Lindsay Adams to get a sense of these characters’ Senior Beat Writer “In a World” is a fantastically unusual gem in the rough. It is a low-budget independent film written by, directed by and starring Lake Bell. The entire film was shot in 20 days on a shoestring budget. The storyline is charming, nuanced and surprisingly dramatic at times. The comedy is clever and the dramatic plot points are freshly handled. It is an imaginative underdog tale of a woman rising in an industry monopolized by males. Carol (Bell) a stuck-in-neutral vocal coach still living at home, is kicked out by her father Sam (Fred Melamed), the reigning voiceover talent king, in order to make room for his new and much younger girlfriend, Jamie (Alexandra Holden). With nowhere else to go she ends up on the couch at her sister’s and brother-in-law’s, Dani (Michaela Watkins) and Moe (Rob Corddry), apartment. She has always wanted to break into the voiceover industry, but has always been rebuffed by her father who explains, “The industry does not crave a female voice.” She finally gets her big break when Gustav (Ken Marino), the up-andcoming voiceover artist, loses his voice. Louis (Demetri Martin), a coworker who harbors a crush on her, gets her one of Gustav’s gigs. She is then thrown into the ring to compete for the voiceover on the trailer for an epic new blockbuster series that’s bringing back Don LaFontaine’s famous “In a World...” shtick against her misogynist father and Gustav. The uniqueness of the script really elevates the film. It doesn’t let subject matter of marriage issues turn melodramatic or overthe-top, but deals with it honestly. The gender equality message isn’t shoved down your throat. Instead it is an unexpected look at gender bias in a career path many people don’t think about. Bell takes uncomfortable situations in reality and makes them accessible and funny without removing the essential experience. The issues underlying Carol’s familial relationships and her father’s overly competitive nature slowly come out through small moments in dialogue. There is not one dramatic scene that explains the backstory, but instead it is brought out with comedy and in
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shared history. The ensemble cast is quite strong, mostly filled with comedy actors or stand-up comics, several of whom are given a chance to show more range than usual. Eva Longoria, Jeff Garlin and Cameron Diaz all have bit parts playing themselves. The entire cast has a knack for comedic timing and play off each other beautifully. The strengths of the film are the relationships that feel real. From colleague chatter between Nick Offerman, Tig Notaro and Martin to the bickering banter between Rob Corddry and Michaela Watkins, it is all believable. The authentic, natural dialogue felt almost improvised. Bell as Carol is the perfect blend of oddities. She is down-to-earth tomboyish, but also somewhat irresponsible and socially inept. She looks like a person you would see walking down the street. She wears clothes that look like she got them on sale or at a thrift store and her hair is left pretty much alone. She is gutsy and curious. She is obsessed with accents, following strangers around with a voice recorder. Demetri Martin is a treat as the clumsy, but sweet and sensitive suitor, mixing an “aw, shucks” boyish vibe with wry timing. Marino plays dim bulb Gustav perfectly. Corddry shows off a fantastic range in his role and his gift for finding comedy even in the most normal of moments. Watkins is given the most dramatic work to do and she does it remarkably well. While she makes mistakes, the audience still empathizes with her. Fred Melamed plays an almost unbearably awful person quite realistically, never turning him into a cartoon. “In a World” is a fantastic film experience, featuring a smart and funny heroine who fights prejudice and women with “sexy baby” voices at every turn. It is a witty and emotionally resonant movie that can also keep its audience in stitches. Bell’s deft hand at satirizing and honest dialogue entertains from beginning to end.
Brad Pitt, why do you keep setting down your weapons? Chloe Robbins-Anderson Copy Editor “World War Z” came out on DVD last week packed with bonus features to satisfy zombie survivalists and Brad Pitt lovers alike. One thing has to be addressed, so let’s get it out of the way early: the only things this movie and the book have in common are the name, zombies and some locations. That being said, this movie is enjoyable in its own right, keeping the book as far out of mind as possible. The film follows Gerry Lane (Pitt) as he travels the world looking for the origin and cure to the zombie plague rapidly covering the planet. Lane formerly worked as an investigator for the United Nations, so he’s got the credentials, and in a chaotic world undergoing pandemic he’s the best choice, having survived thus far. Lane leaves with Dr. Andrew Fassbach (Elyes Gabel), a virologist who thinks they can track the origin by reviewing the first reports in South Korea and a team of military personnel. For whatever reason, the boys give Fassbach a gun and in a panic at the first sight of zombies, he accidentally shoots himself, leaving Lane and the soldiers to solve the crisis on their own. Of course, since this is a full-length movie, this isn’t the origin site, and the team travels to Jerusalem, which was quarantined before the outbreak had fully spread, making it both a safe zone and a possible origin. Information here, however, leads them on to the World Health Organization research facility in Wales. The soldiers dwindle on the journey until only Segen (Daniella Kertesz) is left to help Lane through this last leg. The movie is appropriately suspenseful, especially in the opening scene where chaos suddenly erupts on a surprisingly peaceful New York morning. There is considerably less blood, both from zombies and victims, than one would usually expect from a zombie film, presumably to keep the PG-13 rating. The creatures are also
different from most other zombie films, being extremely fast and fairly agile. While this was used in the “28 Days Later” films, those were technically people with a rage virus, while these are truly reanimated corpses. The most frustrating parts to watch come every time Lane sets down his weapon for no reason. “About to investigate a new wing of the lab? I won’t be needing this crowbar,” seems to be his mentality. “Found a possible, untested cure that makes people invisible to zombies? We certainly don’t want to scare the zombies by keeping a weapon in hand.” It’s really a wonder he made it to the end of the movie alive. It’s possible he survives only to fulfill his destiny to drink Pepsi on the big screen – with the obligatory refreshed sigh. The Blu-ray disc features an unrated extended cut with about 10 extra minutes of blood and gore, while the DVD remains the same bloodless version. The combo pack also includes a feature called “Origins,” which talks about Pitt’s influence on the movie, trying to steer the movie away from being a traditional zombie film. Along with this, “Looking to Science” explores real zombie-like instances in nature, the scientific possibilities and the history of zombies in fiction.
canderson@unews.com
ladams@unews.com
Illustration // Joey Hill
Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
Website Reviews: Jack Threads
Photo // jackthreads.com
Erin Melrose Broadcast Assistant This members-only website offers men’s apparel at a discounted price. Upon registration, members are given a first look at upcoming trends and styles by well-curated brands. Dedicated to amplifying men’s fashion, this site is not for the average Joe. Brand names range from classic 501 Levi’s to sleek Nixon watches. The website encourages members to visit early and often as further sales are rare but worthwhile. http://www.jackthreads.com
Jack Thread’s originals for half the price.
‘The Dude’ abides at Screenland Armour
Nasty Gal
Photo //nastygal.com
Founder Sophia Amoruso used One of the best-kept secrets in online shopping began with Sophia Amoruso to pay her models in pizza. occasionally selling her favorite vintage goods on EBay. The site blossomed and eventually became the wildly successful operation today known as Nasty Gal. The online haven is an accumulation of trendy clothing and accessories at affordable prices, most often not found in retail stores. One of the highest praises about the website is the speediness of each order being delivered. http://www.nastygal.com
Thought Catalog
This interactive online magazine based in Brooklyn operates on the idea “the more perspective, the better.” A compilation of relevant editorials and current news, Thought Catalog truly gives readers something to think about. Highly successful on Twitter, it adds an entertaining element compared to other social media such as Facebook and Instagram. Quirky stories range from motivating truths to dating 101. Submissions are always welcome as the website prides itself on goals to archive for tomorrow. http://thoughtcatalog.com
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Thought Catalog offers the ins and outs of dating older men.
Photo //thoughtcatalog.com
NPR Music
Drake dishes on music’s ‘good girl’ problem.
National Public Radio, or NPR, is home to numerous radio news shows. A fairly household name, it has become widely renowned for its range of news topics and buzz worthy headlines. NPR music is a separate website that focuses specifically on all things current in the music industry. Not only does the site feature new and classic hits, it digs deeper by showcasing artists and the in’s and out’s of the music world. http://www.npr.org/music/
Photo // npr.org
The Good Men Project
Photo // goodmenproject.org This highly acclaimed website asks its male readers “what does it mean to be a good man?” By featuring men’s stories of defining life moments, members are able to relate. Founding father, Tom Matlock insists the website shies away from nothing. It takes diverse topics like sex, marriage, and sports and inserts relevancy. http://goodmenproject.com emelrose@unews.com
The Good Men Project discusses popular topics such as sports, sex, and marriage.
Screenland Armour shows “The Big Lebowski” on the big screen four times a year with specials on ‘The Dude’s’ favorite drink, the White Russian. Photo // Chloe Robbins-Anderson Chloe Robbins-Anderson men urinate on his rug because of a Copy Editor debt, Jeffrey “The Dude” Lebowski Screenland Armour screened “The Big Lebowski” last weekend to a crowd dressed in bathrobes, “The Dude Abides” T-shirts and tie-dye and lounging on sofas with white Russians in hand. According to co-operator Adam Roberts, Screenland has been doing Lebowski screenings at least once a year since 2006 . Now, it’s shown every three to four months, depending on other screenings. In addition to drink specials, the Screenland offered nachos and spinach alfredo pizza on special before the screening to get people in the building mingling and enjoying their white Russians. The only thing missing from the scene is a large rug that “brings the room together,” as The Dude would say. “I’m constantly on the lookout for The Dude’s rug,” Roberts said. “If I could find that, it would be at every one.” The Screenland always has The Dude’s signature drink on special before and during the show. Roberts said they sell about 180 white Russians each time in addition to different cocktail sales. “[They’re] drinking white Russians like they’re going out of style,” Roberts said. Like its other regular screening, “Rocky Horror Picture Show,” these screenings attract many returning viewers, but Lebowski gets large audiences of new viewers each time, Roberts said. Among those who dress up for the event, many wear bathrobes and a regular attendee looks just like John Goodman, an actor in the film. “We definitely encourage dressups,” Roberts said. “If we showed it more often, there would be more.” “The Big Lebowski” is a tale of a man trying to get his rug cleaned, and mistaken identity. After some
(Jeff Bridges) goes on an adventure to be repaid for the damage. He meets with the Jeffrey Lebowski (David Huddleston), the man who actually had a debt to settle with the men, and steals the “Big” Lebowski’s rug when he is refused recompense. A few days later, Lebowski hires The Dude for a ransom drop and The Dude goes on a crazy ride with his bowling buddies Walter (John Goodman) and Donny (Steve Buscemi). The trio encounters a “vaginal” artist, some German nihilists and pornographers and some other interesting adventures scored with music from limitless genres. The most memorable and random scene is without a doubt the dream sequences set to Bob Dylan’s “The Man in Me” and Kenny Rogers and The First Condition’s “Just Dropped In.” The whole plot is framed by a narrator only known as The Stranger, an appropriately mustachioed, sarsaparilla-guzzling cowboy played by Sam Elliott. When the movie was originally released in 1998, the box office numbers were disappointing. It has since become a cult film, even spawning even a religion called Dudeism. Louisville, Ky., is the site of the original annual Lebowski Fest, which has since spread to other cities and even in England. While screenings like “Rocky Horror” encourage participation and wild, mostly uncomfortable dress, “Lebowski” teaches the art of abiding: laying back and enjoying the ride, preferably with a white Russian in hand. Screenland doesn’t have the next screening scheduled yet, but to keep an eye out for “The Big Lebowski” and other movie events, check out http:// screenland.com/armour.
canderson@unews.com
Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
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Disclaimer: The views of individual writers expressed below in this section do not represent the official stance of U-News. U-News welcomes participation from all UMKC students. Letters to the editor may be submitted to Editors-in-Chief Roze Brooks and Elizabeth Golden, editor@unews.com.
Slandering the welfare scapegoat Mal Hartigan
Copy Editor
Poverty sucks, and for the 46.5 million Americans at or below 2012’s federal poverty threshold, it’s overstayed its welcome. Politicians and charitable organizations urge for donations to aid starving children in foreign countries, but the severe struggle millions of Americans face to secure a daily meal is not awarded similar urgency. Limited federal assistance is available via social welfare programs, but rarely provides enough assistance for the recipient to live independently without recurring financial crises. Additionally, many impoverished individuals are born into poverty, and are proven to experience increased hunger, homelessness, infant deaths and child disability, substance abuse, more crime and violence, school failure and despair. Despite these increased hardships, politicians have successfully scapegoated poor Americans as a primary cause for increased government spending and higher taxes, and perpetuate negative attitudes regarding the poor as “leeches” to the welfare system. The food stamp program, now the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, remains the chief target. Conservative politicians have long voiced disapproval of social welfare, recently demonstrated with Thursday’s 217-210 vote on a House bill that approves $39 billion from food stamp funding over a period of 10 years. If the House bill passes the Senate and is signed to federal law, the cuts are estimated to eliminate 3 million recipients and cut current benefits for 850,000 recipients. The GOP’s insistence to cut $39 billion puts these additional Americans at risk to fall further below the poverty threshold without federal income supplements – namely those who receive SNAP benefits. Conservative politicians have convinced the general population that food stamp recipients are lazy and refuse to find jobs, resulting in increased taxes to fund these benefits. Most of the general population also suffers from the false presumption
that food stamp benefits are extended to illegal immigrants, drug addicts and women who have more children to receive increased benefits. This lack of compassion for fellow citizens who struggle on a daily basis is disconcerting. Politicians and citizens should treat the impoverished with empathy rather than loathing. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, the overarching welfare program that encompasses food stamps and other services, is actually prohibited by federal law from using funds to provide any assistance to legal immigrants who have not resided in the U.S. for five years or more. Eligible persons cannot receive TANF benefits for more than 60 months during his or her lifetime, which means recipients must eventually find an alternative income supplement to survive. TANF is also funded through a fixed-amount block grant, which means the amount of government funding TANF programs require does not increase. If 5 million more Americans qualify for TANF programs in 2013, for example, the block grant’s total dollar amount does not increase to accommodate more eligible recipients. The block grant also disregards the effects of inflation. Politicians who perpetuate negative stereotypes about welfare recipients have fixated their attention on the wrong issue. Republicans in the House of Representatives supported drastic cuts to the food stamp budget because they believe it will prompt welfare recipients to diligently pursue employment. However, political efforts to create more jobs have hardly restored the 8 million lost during the 2007-09 economic recession, which means millions of Americans could lose welfare assistance while unable to succeed in a damaged job market. The economy has averaged a 2.5 percent increase in growth after the recession ended, and while a small number of new jobs have been created, most are food service occupations, which tend to pay minimum wage. Supporting a family of two on minimum wage is not reasonably possible or comfortable
Is this real life?
Dan Moreno Senior Beat Writer
Mal Hartigan without receiving an increased wage or welfare assistance. It is long overdue for politicians to find logical, more appropriate solutions to eliminate increased government expenditures. The Congressional Budget Office’s data continually shows that Medicare and Medicaid consume the largest amount of the federal government’s budget per fiscal year. SNAP benefits consume a microscopic percentage of the federal budget in comparison to Social Security’s 33 percent, which includes unemployment and labor, Medicare’s 25 percent or military spending’s 17 percent. Rather than stigmatizing poor Americans, politicians urgently need to develop a solution for Medicare and Medicaid’s growing costs. The Congressional Budget Office estimated that 80 percent of future spending growth over the next 25 years would be due to these two programs. The spending growth for Medicare and Medicaid is chiefly driven by the aging of the population, including the babyboomer generation, and increased health care costs per person. The general population should cease the spread of negative attitudes toward food stamp recipients, and instead, correctly scapegoat America’s politicians for diverting attention away from the true source of massive government spending. Poverty will continue to persist if our governing framework ignores the country’s vast socioeconomic inequality and the social conditions that fuel its growth. mhartigan@unews.com
Kansas City’s three professional sports teams have achieved impressive success during each sport’s season, and have lifted our hopes with belief that Kansas City can actually have a triple post-season year. For the past three years, Sporting KC has ended the regular season in the top three spots nationwide, and the team’s success during the current season has paved the way for Sporting KC’s fourth appearance in the playoffs. Sporting KC Head Coach Peter Vermes orchestrated a great team this season by combining both youth and strength with players like Soony Saad and Orioll Rossell, as well as players with outstanding ability like Jimmy Nielsen and Aurelien Collin. After the U.S. Open Cup championship last season, Sporting KC earned a spot in the Champions League, which features teams from North and Central America. Sporting KC has practically advanced to the playoffs after winning away games against both Real Esteli of Nicaragua and C.D. Olimpia of Honduras and tying against Esteli at Sporting Park last week. Sporting KC fans believe the third time is a charm after being eliminated in the playoffs for two years consecutively against Houston Dynamo. Sporting KC isn’t alone in its success. The Kansas City Royals have had an excellent season so far. Seriously, when was the last time we were talking about baseball in midSeptember? The Royals stand (82-7) with a .529 average in the MLB, trailing the Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Indians in the Central Division. The Royals hope to secure a spot in the playoffs for the first time since the team’s 1985 postseason appearance. As expected, 23-year-old Eric Hosmer has had an unforgettable
Dan Moreno year by leading the batting standings, followed by designated hitter Billy Butler. Royals Manager Ned Yost has helped combat the team’s negative records by bringing a hard-playing team back to Kansas City, even if the Royals don’t reach the World Series. The Kansas City Chiefs showed an impressive start in the NFL pre-season, securing a 3-0 record with victories over the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Dallas Cowboys the Philadelphia Eagles. Head Coach Andy Reid joined the Chiefs this year and is making a big impact so far. The coaching staff is important, but we all know a football team can’t succeed if the quarterback is bad. The Chiefs signed quarterback Alex Smith, who helped take the San Francisco 49ers to the Super Bowl, after eight seasons with the 49ers. Smith has already proven his talent with four touchdowns and 669 yards in three games, with an average of 6.4. Is it possible that all three Kansas City teams can make the playoffs in the same year? Let’s all show America who has the best fans in the country by continuing to support our teams.
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Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
Where has propriety gone? Lindsay Nelson Broadcast Assistant Apparently I missed the memo when a majority of the student population deemed classroom etiquette inapplicable: the premature packing up before the end of a lecture, the dramatic entrances and exits. This disregard toward decent decorum deserves consequence. The information the professor shares during the last two minutes of classroom lectures becomes lost between the noise of shuffling papers, backpack zippers and rattling seats. Arriving to the subsequent class seems to require extensive preparation. The moment a professor may loosely end a sentence, an educational dam is broken and students begin to flood out of the room. Meanwhile, the poor professor is left wondering how he or she could have possibly been that boring or, on the flip side, left planning a pop quiz in retaliation. At some point, a professor may make the class stay an extra minute when this rudeness persists. What difference does one minute really make? None. Students should instead calm down and wait to be dismissed. Students who worry about being late to their next class can walk more quickly, or try running for a change. Instead of causing a scene at the end a class, make a scene by sprinting frantically across campus. It will be more enjoyable for everyone. However, stop and take a breath before bursting into that next class. The problem equivalent to disruptively leaving a class is the obnoxious late entrance.
Lindsay Nelson We have all seen this illustration: the professor is a good 10 minutes into the lecture and somebody flings the door open, stomps in and lets the door slam behind. It happens every day, yet it is easily avoidable. How, you ask? First step: gently open the door as quietly as possible. Second: tip-toe into the classroom. Third: slowly and delicately pull the door closed. After following these steps, silently take a seat in the back of the classroom as to not distract anyone or disrupt further. Conducting ourselves respectfully and attentively while in the classroom should come as a common courtesy. Our professors are hired to teach us what we need to know. Their time is just as precious as we like to think ours is. And our classmates are there to learn. Even if earth science or public speaking or theatre history is merely a gen-ed for you, try to respect those who have made it his or her career focus. lnelson@unews.com
New deal lessens war threat
Matt Melson Broadcast Assistant
Russia and the United States struck a deal with Syria Sept. 14, which would remove all chemical weapons from Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. After three days of discussion, Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reached an agreement that forced Assad to account for his stockpile of weapons, and also allowed international inspectors to destroy the weapons by the middle of next year. This agreement averts any type of military action from the U.S. Although the agreement was reached, this does not mean the threat of military action is off the table. “If diplomacy fails, the United States remains prepared to act,” President Barack Obama said. “The international community expects the Assad regime to live up to its public commitments.” The new agreement will be backed by the enforcement of the United Nations, but exact terms of the deal are still being discussed. Obama still has military forces positioned and ready if necessary. Russia is unlikely to stand behind the U.S. if the situation calls for military action. Due to the agreement, tension
Matt Melson between the U.S. and Russia has eased. This bilateral deal was able to calm Cold War-like friction between the two countries. As for the civil war within Syria, the country will have to deal with the issues unassisted and without use of chemical weapons. This agreement has been a blow to the Syrian rebels. The rebels hoped the imminent military strikes by the U.S. would help them in an effort to overthrow Assad. With military strikes becoming less of a reality, the rebels have begun to act dismissive with the proposal. “Let the Kerry-Lavrov plan go to hell,” said Qassim Saadeddine, a rebel commander for northern Syria. “We reject it and we will not protect the inspectors.” mmelson@unews.com
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Monday September 23, 2013 | Issue 6
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