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CYNIC
“I think it’s one of those things that you can’t leave UVM without having done.” -junior, Tierney Hally On the Naked Bike Ride Read the story on page 8
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Sophomore dies skiing at Sugarbush Staff Report A student died Saturday after sustaining fatal injuries from a skiing accident at Sugarbush Ski Resort in Warren Vt., according to a Vermont State Police press release. Sophomore Kendra Bowers, of Newport, R.I., was skiing with family and friends on the Low Rim Run Trail on Mt. Ellen, at Sugarbush when she lost control at the intersection with Lower FIS Trail, according to the police report. Bowers then veered off the right hand side of the trail and struck a trail sign, according to the report. Patrol and emergency responders for Sugarbush Resort responded to the incident immediately and treated Bowers until she was transported to Central Vermont Hospital in Berlin, according to the state police. Bowers was pronounced dead upon arrival to CVH.
She was then transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner’s office in Burlington for an autopsy, according to the press release. As an environmental science major in the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, Bowers planned to pursue a career in environmental law, junior Katy Silber said. A fan of both folk and Spanish music, Bowers planned to attend the Newport Folk Festival in R.I. this summer. It was a tradition that she held with her sister, junior Megan Yeigh said. This summer, Silber, Yeigh, sophomore Julie Silverberg and sophomore Britt LeBaronBrien plan to attend the festival in her honor. Bowers was an active member of the co-ed group, Zest Acapella. She was also a member of the Health and Wellness resi-
See BOWERS on page 3
PHOTO COURTESY OF CAMERON PANEPINTO
Sophomore Kendra Bowers poses for a photograph. Bowers passed away from a skiing accident at Sugarbush Ski Resort Feb. 1. She is pictured wearing her favorite pair of vintage Ray Ban sunglasses.
Billings water pipes burst Property stolen from Spear Street garage
Joseph Tomlinson Staff Writer UVM students aren’t the only ones affected by the subzero Vermont winter. Water pipes burst in Billings library Jan. 5 at 1:30 a.m., leaving pressurized water running for 45 minutes, according to Scott O’Brien, project coordinator of the Physical Plant department. “We had guys here within five or 10 minutes trying to figure it out,” O’Brien said. The Physical Plant department staff is extremely proficient in responding to these situations, getting them under control and determining how to proceed, O’Brien said. “The damage was fairly minimal,” Mieko Ozeki, a sustainability projects coordinator, said. Offices located in Billings “were very fortunate in that way,” Ozeki said. Only a few papers were damaged because the office primarily “works in a cloud,” meaning that most of their documents are saved on computers, according to Ozeki. “The water appeared to hit random items. Some things appeared to be water logged, but Like us on Facebook
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WALKER SULTZBACH The Vermont Cynic
A construction truck drives past the Billings Library Feb. 4. A pipe burst on Jan. 5 causing water to fill the building for 45 minutes. it turned out to be fine,” Ozeki said. It’s more of an inconvenience. Ozeki said that she and her co-workers are lucky that they have flexible office space and work mentalities. The University’s Physical Plant department managed to have the kitchen up and running within the week before students returned to campus Jan.12, according to O’Brien. “If this happened two weeks [later], about when you [students] were coming into class, then it would have been a little Follow us on Instagram
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bit more of a problem,” Ozeki said. “In terms of [the pipeline burst] happening again, if you have a building with a pipe and water in it,” he said. “It could happen again.”
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Break ins and thefts occured to multiple cars in the Gutterson parking garage on athletic campus into Jan. 30. according to UVM police services. “I think it could happen again and it makes me really nervous because I have to park there every day,” first-year Addison Stillman said. “I’ve never really had to worry about leaving things in my car, like money and my laptop, but now I do,” she said. UVM Police Officer Peter Czekaj was investigating reported suspicious behavior in the garage at the time. Officer Czekaj’s investigation led to the identification of two males who had been in the garage: Zakk Trombly, a 19-year-old from Milton, Vt. and Brandon Luther, a 23-yearold, according to the report. “This is the first I am hearing about it, but I would say break-ins happen everywhere, so I don’t leave anything of value in my car,” first-year Stephen Van Wyck said. “I guess it’s not a huge con-
See BREAK IN on page 3
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Brandon Luther, 23.
Zakk Trombly, 19. Photos Courtesy of UVM Police Services
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N EWS
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2014
Employee aids in geoscience work Natalie Cooney Cynic Correspondent A UVM employee has been appointed as chair of the National Committee to the International Union for Geological Sciences (USNC-IUGS), according to University Communications. Melody Brown Burkins, the current senior director for research and strategic initiatives and director of the Vermont Advanced Computing Core at UVM, was appointed to this three-year term, according to University Communications. The USNC-IUGS is one of 23 national committees led by the Policy and Global Affairs Division of the National Academies, according to the release A main aspect of the USNC’s mission is to create an international bridge for scientists to have an open dialogue about the issues and validity of the geological sciences, according to University Communications. This develops a network in which scientists can share their ideas with others in their field across the globe. It encourages advancement and a collaborative effort to attempt to solve some of the worlds’ environmental and geological issues such as energy security and climate change, according to the release. Burkins intends to organize this communication through the active use of social media to spread awareness of environmental and geological issues and connect people and ideas, according to University Communications. As chair, Burkins will also focus on maintaining an open dialogue concerning natural hazards. “We want to save as many lives as possible, predicting natural hazards, and mitigating their severity,” she said. The aspect of her position that she said is most near and dear to her heart is the development of science diplomacy, she said. Science diplomacy is considered the use of science to build bridges between countries and to promote scientific cooperation as an essential element of foreign policy, according to the American Asso-
ciation for the Advancement of Science. This is how the network of scientists around the world can be more visible and active in spreading good will, Burkins said. When U.S. scientists go and help other nations gain a better understanding of science, those experts will typically bring back knowledge from other countries, she said. “Based on the exemplary work she has done at the University of Vermont, we are certain she’ll make a significant contribution,” president Sullivan said. “It’s no surprise to us that her leadership ability has been recognized by this important and prestigious group,” he said. This is a great achievement for both Burkins and the University, first-year Michaela Paul said. “This shows what great potential the students and faculty have at the University,” Paul said.
What is USNC-IUGS The U.S. National Committee for the International Union for Geological Science is the center of U.S. discussion of how to keep geological science relevant internationally.
What is does IUGS do? Attracts students and research workers to study geology. Organizes international projects and meetings to foster dialogue among scientists.
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BECCA ADAMS The Vermont Cynic
Continuting Education Students Matthew Sturm (left) and Matthew Coates (right) speak about their experiences living in McCann Hall. Both are members of the Guaranteed Admission Program (GAP).
Tension within McCann Ethan Rogers Staff Writer Within the first week of fall semester, UVM police services made four visits to McCann Hall on Trinity Campus, according to their website. As the term continued, police services averaged about four per month at the residence hall. “McCann is a building that undeniably violates many of UVM policies and at the same time is a very tight community that is full of good people,” Matt Coates, a Guaranteed Admission Program (GAP) student, said. GAP students have been offered on-campus housing in McCann Hall starting this year, Stacey Miller, director of residential life said. GAP is run by Continuing and Distance Education, according to GAP’s website. GAP allows previouslyrejected students to come to UVM and take classes as continuing education students. If GAP students maintain a 3.0 GPA over 18 credits, they will be enrolled into UVM as a transfer student, according to the website. This marks the first year that GAP students will have the option to live in the same hall, Miller said. “In the past GAP students have lived on campus, but we have not been able to sustain that practice due to housing capacity issues,” Miller said. With these issues solved, the program has been able to bring students to campus for the year. Research tells us that living on campus is one of the best ways to meet people, build strong connections and easily transition into college, Miller said. “While we have not had GAP students on campus consistently over the past 10 years, when we did, many complained that they felt alone and isolat-
BECCA ADAMS The Vermont Cynic
McCann Hall is located on Trinity Campus. Many students in the Guaranteed Admission Program (GAP) live in McCann. UVM Police Services has responded to a number of incidents there this year. ed,” Miller said. Many GAP students felt that other members of their residential communities did not understand their experiences or academic needs, Miller said. “As a result of this feedback, and because of the large number of students who were going to be joining the program this year, we decided that GAP students should be together in the same community,” Miller said. Currently there are around 30 people living in McCann, Coates said. He said that he enjoys living there. “I wouldn’t live anywhere else if I had the choice,” Coates said. “It’s crazy sometimes, but it’s a great place to live.” Many students who live in McCann like the sense of family created by a small residence hall, GAP student Andrew Bykovski said. Students who live in large dorms typically don’t know everyone and don’t have the same sense of family that McCann does, Bykovski said. Not everyone shares Bykovski’s and Coates’ point of view. Reslife hasn’t made the right decision to put everyone in the same place, Matt Sturm, a GAP student, said. “Don’t put all of the kids
who got distracted in high school with each other, because they are going to have a much harder time - struggling and getting distracted by the kids who themselves, got distracted,” Sturm said. “It would be better if they put everyone in different places. “A GAP student in Redstone, one in athletic, so they could actually feel more like they are students instead of like we are all crammed in this shit box of the back five,” Sturm said. Reslife has learned a lot this year from student feedback, Miller said. While some GAP students have enjoyed living together, others have not. “We also recognized that in order to have a real cohort experience, we need to increase our staff support,” Miller said. Future GAP students will probably still be housed together on Trinity, according to Miller. “The good thing is, for those current GAP students who matriculate in the University, if they chose to live on campus next year, they will be able to pick other areas of campus to live in the fall of 2014,” Miller said.
N EWS
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2014
Obama to up minimum wages Joseph Tomlinson Staff Writer President Barack Obama painted a picture of future actions he would like to see taken during his annual State of the Union address Jan. 28. Obama addressed a wide range of topics, including the economy, equal pay and education. He presented these subjects in the form of a running list that summarized their current state. The speech urged Congress to join the President in taking action to encourage American progress. Obama stressed that he will do everything in his power to take executive action on his own, according to the address. “America does not stand still — and neither will I. So wherever and whenever I can take steps without legislation to expand opportunity for more American families, that’s what I’m going to do,” he said. Obama announced a new executive order to raise the minimum wage for employees of federal contractors from $7.25 per hour to $10.10 per hour. Most federal contractor employees already make more than Obama’s proposed wage, according to a fact check article on Politico.com. This is considered a move designed to push Congress toward raising the federal minimum wage for Americans, ac-
cording to Politico. The first bill Obama signed into law was the Lilly Ledbetter Act in 2009, meant to deter pay discrimination against women in the workforce, according to Forbes magazine. Equal pay for equal work by women is still a topic of discussion in 2014. Obama recognized a pay difference of 77 cents to the dollar between women and men, as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau. “I believe when women succeed, America succeeds,” Obama said. Despite strong public support, the Paycheck Fairness Act has never made it through senate, Forbes magazine reports. “I’m glad President Obama continues to include equal pay as a priority,” junior Carmen Scoles said. “It is an important issue for female students.” Obama also brought up education in his address. “We’re shaking up our system of higher education to give parents more information, and colleges more incentives to offer better value,” he said. Obama’s vision for America was clearly conveyed through this State of the Union address. His goals for progress this year will take more than a speech to accomplish, though— they require careful consideration and teamwork by all branches of the United States government.
Jan. 26 1:59 a.m. Multiple calls came in to police services about a student who appeared to be intoxicated outside the Harris/Millis complex. Callers reported that the person was, “stumbling and falling down.” When officers arrived, they measured the blood alcohol content (BAC) of the student. Their BAC was found to be .34. The student was brought to Fletcher Allen Hospital to be detoxed.
4:46 a.m.
FILE PHOTO The Vermont Cynic
President Obama speaks at the Gutterson Fieldhouse April 30, 2012. His State of the Union address covered the economy and education.
...continued from page 1
BREAK IN Cars broken into in Gutterson parking lot ...continued from page 1 cern of mine,” Van Wyck said. Trombly was cited to appear in court Jan. 30, and he is expected to answer to the charges of unlawful mischief, possession of stolen property and petit larceny, according to the report. Luther is being held at the Chittenden Correctional Facility for a violation of conditions of his release from a prior criminal charge, the report said. “It wouldn’t be easy to pay for the fix as an independent college student,” sophomore Jacob Dubois said. “It seems like it doesn’t happen that quickly normally. Actually I remember a cruiser
shining his spot light all around campus when I got back around 3 a.m.,” Dubois said. UVM police urge the public to propertly secure their personal belongings in their cars. Police also stress that anyone who has had their vehicles broken into and/or property taken from them recently should contact the police agency in their area, the report said. Anyone with information about this incident is asked to report that information to Police Services by calling 802656-3473 or by visiting the UVM Police Services website at www.uvm.edu/police.
Lauren Drasler Staff Writer
On a nightly patrol, officers thought they spotted what looked like a flashlight beam in the backyard of the President’s residence, the Englesby House located on North Williams St. Upon investigation, however, no one was located and nothing appeared to be out of place.
Student dies in Sugarbush skiing incident
BECCA ADAMS The Vermont Cynic
CRIME LOG Jan. 25 1:17 a.m.
BOWERS
A student walks through the Gutterson parking garage Feb. 3. Multiple vehicles in this lot were broken into and robbed Jan. 30.
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dential learning community, according to a letter from Annie Stevens, vice provost for student affairs. One of the last things she planned to do was donate her old clothes to charity. She was also in the process of growing out her hair for Locks of Love, according to Silber. “She was so thoughtful and always thought of other people. She was truly selfless,” Silverberg said. She touched a lot of people directly right before she passed, according to Silber. Silber recalled a time when Bowers came to visit her this past winter break. They went to a store together and Bowers surprised Silber by buying her a bracelet that she said she liked. “I have so many pieces of her clothing that she said ‘I like them but it would look so much better on you,’” LeBaron-Brien said. A group of her close friends went to the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory on Sunday to make multiple bears and embroidered the initial K.L.B on them in Kendra’s honor, LeBaron-Brien said. “She would have loved to do that. It was something small,
Ski and Snowboard Fatalities in Vermont Jan. 5, 1975 - Harris Hill, Brattleboro, Vt. Feb. 4, 2012 - Sugarbush Ski Resort, Warren Vt. Feb. 6, 2012 - Mount Snow, West Dover, Vt. Feb. 11, 2012 - Jay Peak Resort, Jay, Vt. Dec. 12, 2013 - Killington, Vt. Feb. 1, 2014 - Craftsbury, Vt. Feb. 1, 2014 - Sugarbush Ski Resort, Warren Vt.
but it was good to keep us distracted,” Yeigh said. “It’s amazing seeing the support on campus, everyone just had this look in their eyes that they’re suffering the same loss,” Silber said. Her friends want to make sure that everyone is getting the support they need, Silber said. If someone is in need of additional support, contact UVM’s Counseling and Psychiatry Services at (802) 656-3340 (for students) or the LifeScope EAP Services at 1-800-828-6025 (for employee assistance). Information about campus and/or family services will follow as it becomes available.
Residents in Wills Hall contacted police about a student in the building who was intoxicated. The student was found sitting on the floor of a men’s bathroom in the building. However, instead of being immediately taken to ACT for detox, the student was transported to the Emergency Room because he had fallen in the building and had broken his teeth.
9:26 p.m. Hall staff in Wright Hall called police services after discovering graffiti in a hallway. The graffiti, which was written in black marker, was found on a wall in a hallway on the third floor and the word “faggot” was written.
Jan. 27 5:39 a.m. Both hall staff and residents in U-Heights South contacted police after a student was found to be intoxicated in the building. The student was acting “lost” and had wandered into another student’s room. Police arrived and were able to get the student back to his/her own room. The student did not require detox.
2:08 p.m. A University employee called police services after he/she was unable to locate his/her wallet after being on Trinity campus. The person stated that he/she wasn’t sure if the wallet had been stolen or if it was simply lost.
Life
Two UVM traditions make top 100 Keira Tachibana Cynic Correspondent
JONATHAN POLSON The Vermont Cynic
Participants at the Naked Bike Ride run naked December 2011. The event was ranked No. 47 in a “100 Greatest College Traditions” list.
WALKER SULTZBACH The Vermont Cynic
Students play with a parachute at the Redstone Green April 20. UVM’s annual 4/20 event was ranked No. 79 for college traditions.
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This year, UVM was ranked twice on Campus Grotto’s “100 Greatest College Traditions” list. UVM’s annual 4/20 tradition of gathering on the campus green landed No. 79 on the list while the semiannual Naked Bike Ride placed in the top 50 on the list, ranking No. 47. For years students have celebrated the semester’s end by stripping down to their “birthday suits” and biking, longboarding or running laps around the central campus green. The event takes place on the last day of classes each semester. Many students take pride in the values of the Naked Bike Ride. “It represents the freedom of expression of UVM students and the collective revelation of our bodies and our weather,” junior Sarah Gibson said. “I love the Naked Bike Ride.” Some see the race as a demonstration of UVM’s free spirited nature and attitude of acceptance. “I like that people here are open enough to be able to do that in a mature way,” senior Langston McCullough said. “At a lot of other schools I don’t think it would go very well.” Ranked No. 1 on Campus Grotto’s list is Indiana University’s Little 500, an actual bike race with fully clothed bikers. “Personally I think that sounds way better,” McCullough said. “I wish we had a better tradition, but the Naked Bike Ride makes UVM what it is.” The Naked Bike Ride has
a complex history. The event replaced former UVM tradition, the Kake Walk, a parody of the Cake Walk performed by slaves in the 19th century as entertainment for their owners, according to a previous article in the Cynic published Dec. 13, 2007. UVM’s Kake Walk consisted of a contest in which students in blackface paint would perform choreographed walks in order to win a cake. The tradition was deemed inappropriate by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and was discontinued by the school in 1969, according to the article. In 1996 UVM student Erika Kutcher completed the first Naked Bike Ride with her friend Carrie Roy. The tradition gained popularity as a way to honor Kutcher, who passed away in 2005, according to a Cynic article published May 3, 2010. Though loved by a significant portion of the student body, the Naked Bike Ride is viewed as unsafe by others. “I think more people need to know before going that people will take pictures of you or you will be touched,” junior Andy Galligan said. “It might have been cool when it was started but now it’s all around this drinking culture,” she said. “Obviously getting naked is awesome, but the environment is really unsafe,” she said. Galligan said she believes the Naked Bike Ride fosters the attitude that “it’s okay to sexually assault someone because they’re drunk, they won’t notice.” Many other students do not think the tradition poses
Other top traditions Krispy Kreme Challenge -North Carolina State University Run several miles, eat 12 donuts, Festivus -Elon University A massive party, thrown in a mud pitt, with kegs and a pig roast. Ski-Beach - Pomona College hits the slopes in the morning to ski, then spends an afternoon on the beach. Grand Prix -Purdue University A week full of parties leading up to a go-kart race around campus.
a threat to students’ safety. “I haven’t had any negative experiences,” senior Hillary Laggis said. “It’s a liberating experience of selfacceptance.” The tradition has gained school-wide fame and even inspired discussion in classrooms. “I’ve never done the Naked Bike Ride,” junior Tierney Hally said. “But in my religion classes we’ve talked about how it serves as a community experience to allow the students of UVM to feel connected to each other.” In November of 2011, UVM announced that it would no longer support the Naked Bike Ride or provide funding and resources for the event, according to a letter from John Bramley, Interim President at the time. Despite the recent change, the tradition lives on with enthusiasm. “It’s important enough to the students that it will keep happening,” Hally said. “I think it’s one of those things that you can’t leave UVM without having done,” she said.
Weekly Health Corner
Dine in the dorm and stay warm Charlotte Fisher Lately, Vermont has been showing us what a real winter is. Daily, I face the tough decision: food or warmth? With temperatures below freezing, I struggle to make it to class, let alone tend to my growling stomach, particularly once the bus stops running. But I like food. I like not having to pile on seven layers only to freeze my eyes shut trekking over to one of the dining halls. So I’ve started stocking
my dorm room with ingredients and experimenting with recipes. I’ve found that dorm room dining is now a treat.
Something warm Warm up that internal temperature with a bowl of soup, or maybe some hot chocolate. If you want something more adventurous, make a panini, no press needed: 1. Heat a tablespoon of butter or olive oil in a pan. 2. Heat another empty pan on the stove. 3. Assemble the panini using your favorite bread and cheese, add any other ingredients you may have around. 4. Place the panini in the pan with the butter or oil,
flipping it once you make sure you coat both sides. 5. Using the hot, empty pan, press down on the top of the bread. That cheese will be melting before you know it!
Something sweet Treat yourself! A delicious option: maple glazed nuts. Here’s an easy recipe adapted from Food Network: 1. Heat a pan on medium-high heat. 2. Add two cups of walnut halves and 1/3 cup Vermont maple syrup. 3. Stir constantly, until the nuts have browned and the maple syrup has caramelized.
4. Let cool.
Something smart You’re body deserves to be well nourished. One of my favorite healthy choices: sweet potatoes. They’re packed with antioxidants, fiber and betacarotene, a pre-cursor to Vitamin A, according to the World’s Healthiest Foods online. Pop it in the microwave for five minutes and enjoy it as is, or fancy it up by filling it with some sautéed kale and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Charlotte Fisher is a first-year undeclared major. She has been writing for the Cynic since spring 2014.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2014
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Chemistry grads bake their way to business Katie Hickey Cynic Correspondent Two former chemistry majors have mixed friendship and passion to create a recipe for CakeIstry, a bakery business started in 2012. Jody Chamberlain and Kristan Corrigan, who graduated from UVM in 2007, have been friends since taking a chemistry class together. The duo started the new personalized cake decorating business in November 2012. The business started as only family birthday cakes, and then
PHOTO COURTESY OF KRISTIN CORRIGAN
CakeIstry cupcakes sit decorated in their boxes. CakeIstry is a bakery in Rutland, Vt. that was started by two former chemisty majors.
“things just started spiraling” into an entrepreneur business and passion, Corrigan said. Now between their two home kitchens, Corrigan and Jody sell cakes across the regions of Vermont. The two were also featured by WCAX in November 2012, as they gained popularity for their themed cake decorations. Decorated goods range from cake pops to cakes and cookies with vegan, gluten-free and non-allergenic ingredients to satisfy any birthday party or other special occasion. Their creations usually come from theme-inspired re-
PHOTO COURTESY OF KRISTIN CORRIGAN
CakeIstry cupcakes are displayed. Jody Chamberlain and Kristan Corrigan started the cake decorating business in November 2012.
quests. “My favorite thing to do [is] any sort of theme cake that I can then accessorize with cake pops and cupcakes,” Corrigan said. She said she believes that what separates them from other bakeries is the detail. “Every single thing that we put on the cake is intentional, every dot, every swirl, every color,” she said. “We are so big on making sure everything is as unique, perfect and detailed as absolutely possible,” Corrigan said. Running a business does not come without its challenges. Corrigan also works as a chemistry teacher in St. Alban’s and has three kids of her own, while Chamberlain is a senior instrument technician at Middlebury College. Their story has motivated other UVM entrepreneurs such as first-year Jordan Labonte. “I think that it’s so inspiring that they have the opportunity to do this, and I hope that one day I will be able to start my own bakery as well,” she said. “If you have a huge dream, you can’t make it about the money,” Corrigan said. “It’s finding out what makes you happy about it and being okay with that.”
Dance to fight cancer in kids Alexia Spinney Cynic Correspondent UVM has planned a peaceful protest to dance its way through the fight against pediatric cancer. The first annual UVM Dance Marathon benefitting the B+ Foundation will be held Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. in the Grand Maple Ballroom of the Davis Center. The event will go through the night, ending at 7 a.m. Feb. 22. “This is a great event,” said Ty Williams, president of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. The fraternity will be helping with the set up and break down of the event as well as fudraising $1,500 on behalf of the foundation. There will be bake sales held in the Davis Center every week leading up to the event to show support. Anyone is able to sign up to be a dancer, pledging to raise $200. They will receive free admission, a T-shirt and
a “swag bag” full of goodies. To start of the evening a 12-year-old cancer patient currently being treated for Leukemia will share his story. Joe McDonough, founder of the B+ Foundation, came to speak to the University about the organization. It was truly inspiring, according to sophomore Shannon Lozito, a board of executives member coordinating the UVMaraTHON. Every day 46 children and teens are diagnosed with cancer, according to bepositive.org. However, fewer than four percent of government funds for cancer research are dedicated to pediatric cancer. The B+ Foundation supports pediatric cancer research and provides direct financial assistance to families and patients in need, according to their website. McDonough created the foundation in honor of his son, Andrew who passed away at age 14. Andrew’s mother, Chris
McDonough, shared the background behind the foundations name in a video on the foundation’s website. She said that B+ was not only her son’s blood type, but it was also the attitude that Andrew lived with during his struggle against Leukemia. With his positivity, he was able to live for 166 bonus days, according to the website. The B+ Foundation mainly operates locally and the money raised at the UVMaraTHON event aims to directly benefit families struggling with pediatric cancer in and around the Burlington community, according to the website. The UVM Dance Marathon is modeled after Penn State’s Thon and hopes to raise $25,000 this year, according to Lozito. The UVMaraTHON hopes to become an annual tradition, to encourage active community engagement to combat pediatric cancer, according to Lozito.
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ARTS
Dan Coyle and his vagabond vibes Jacob Holzman Assistant Arts Editor
PHOTO COURTESY OF JESSICA KULICK
Musician Dan Coyle poses for a photo. A native of Curchville, N.Y., he now tours internationally and will perform at Nectar’s Feb. 8.
He went from living out of cars and struggling with depression to internationally touring and performing. Dan Coyle finds music to be a means to cope with his pains and trials. “Whatever wants to come out will come out,” Coyle said. “It’s as if you were to paint something blindfolded, and then you take the blindfold off and realize, ‘Wow, that’s what I was painting.’ “It’s a blindfolded kind of process – there’s no real thought behind it, just free association,” he said. Singer/songwriter Coyle is heading on tour throughout Vermont, from Shelburne to Kingston from Feb. 6-9. Growing up in Churchville, N.Y., Coyle was not born into a musical family. It was not until an exgirlfriend bought him a guitar, to play covers of Beatles songs, that he got into performing. Coyle taught himself how to play, and after attending several open mic nights while studying at Niagara University he decided to move to Chicago to take on
its music scene. This was not easy, as most of his college friends had moved back home to Churchville after graduating. While saving up funds to move to Chicago, Coyle lived out of his van and performed on the streets of Buffalo for food money and spent leisure time reading. “I would go to a Barnes & Noble, and just sit down and read a book,” Coyle said. “The day before I was to leave [for Chicago], I felt bad – I went to the store and I went and bought all the books I read,” he said. Years later, after lost friendships and troubles with self-harm and addiction, Coyle said he is on a path of happiness and clarity. He said that this was in part due to his music. “I’ve developed this habit of smiling a lot when I’m performing, and I don’t think that used to be the case but…I guess I’m just excited to be doing it. “[My smile] emanates out and it’s hard to watch me perform without smiling. “Hopefully the fact that they’re seeing that I’m having a lot of fun radiates outward,” he said. Even through perfor-
mances with less-than-interested crowds, Coyle knows to stand back and focus in on those who truly care. “I just try to pay attention. “Sometimes you’ll get these places where it can be really loud or obnoxious – I used to be so, ‘I’m an artist, and I have something to say,” he said. Coyle recalled a show where his entire perspective changed. He said he met a man sitting at the bar after his show. “[I talked to him] and he said to me, ‘You should just play for the people, and not worry for the people who aren’t here or aren’t listening,’ and he’s totally right,” Coyle said. “Even if you have to focus on one out of 80 people, and everyone else is annoying, you’ve got to focus on that one person,” he said. Through all of his hardships, Coyle has kept going, kept playing and kept persevering. “Don’t worry about who said they were gonna come. Whoever’s there, give them as good of a show as you can,” he said. Dan Coyle is performing an all-ages free show at Nectar’s Bar Feb. 8.
Framing injustice Photo gallery examines prejudices Alana Smith Staff Writer A photograph has the power to capture the emotion of a time and place. It can preserve in time moments of glory, passion, victory and defeat, as well as social injustice. The Black Student Union, along with the Inter-Residence Association, spoke with UVM students about social dominance and began a Microaggression Photo Gallery project Jan. 27. In celebration of Black History Month, the photos taken will become part of a Living and Learning center photo display. The photos will also be catalogued online, and interviews collected will be edited into a mini-documentary. The idea for the project came from a successful BuzzFeed article, titled “21 Racial Microaggressions That You Hear on a Daily Basis.” A microaggression is an act of nonviolent aggression that is made, intentionally or unintentionally. The aggression is on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, social class or ability status.
Students and staff were asked to sign a release form, speak for 30 seconds before a camera about their chosen microaggression and pose for a photo with their microaggression printed on a whiteboard. Student Roman Christians, who identifies as gay, spoke about microaggressions from within the gay community and the prevalence of slogans such as “No fats. No femmes.” on gay dating websites. Other students spoke about being told things such as “I can’t believe you don’t drink,” and “I can’t believe you don’t believe in God.” A big question for participants: To smile or not to smile? “Smiling in the photo does not mean you are not offended, but that you have the power to transcend the microaggression,” Career Center counselor Ashley Michelle Fowler said. Inter-Residence Association President, Joseph Oteng, reflected with passersby on the criticism and “othering” of minorities. Students were encouraged to reconsider their usage of a handful of problematic question phrases, and were asked to sign a “Normal is Relative” pledge.
A RTS
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2014
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Punk rock theatre comes to Flynn Becca Friedlander Staff Writer The unique merging of punk rock and musical theatre comes together in Green Day’s “American Idiot” the musical, which opens at the Flynn Theatre Feb. 11. Written by Green Day’s singer and lyricist Billie Joe Armstrong and director Michael Mayer, the production is a compilation of songs from the album of the same name. The Cynic was able to catch up with actor Jared Nepute to talk about his character, Johnny, as well as how it feels to be a part of such a dynamic show. Vermont Cynic (VC): What is “American Idiot” about? Jared Nepute (JN): The story is about three best friends who live in a small town and they feel frustrated with the situation and they don’t feel like their lives are going anywhere or they have a purpose. So my character Johnny has this great plan to move to New York City. The show takes all songs from the Green Day album “American Idiot” and characterizes it into the story about these three young
PHOTO COURTESY OF JEREMY DANIEL
The cast of “American Idiot” performs during a show. This script was written by Green Day’s Bille Joe Armstrong and director Michael Mayer. The national tour will open at the Flynn Theatre Feb. 11. men. VC: How does this show compare to other productions you’ve been a part of? JN: This show is one of the fastest moving shows I’ve ever been in. There’s no intermission, so it’s 90 minutes straight through the play.
Cynical Viewer
Tragic season so far Tim Butler ‘Sociopath’ is a word that has been tossed around frequently in discussions about the third season of HBO’s Girls. This is in reference to the behavior of its main character, Hannah Horvath. Examine the most discussed moment of the season so far, when Hannah steals a story told to her by Adam’s sister, Caroline, about a fictional dead relative. Hannah then tells it back to Adam in order to gain sympathy in the wake of the death of her publisher. Hannah isn’t a sociopath though, and I think anyone stuck in her spot would have the same concerns as she does—most would not advertise it though. Still, almost everyone on the show has accused Hannah of having no feelings or remorse. I don’t think this is the case. Though we still have half a season left, and Girls excels when it comes to creating expectations and then crushing them entirely. I honestly think Hannah is entering into another tailspin
similar to the one that occurred at the end of season two. My prediction, though, is that this time it will result in the destruction of her relationship with Adam. Which would be sad, because if anyone could be said to be the moral heart of the show, it would have to be Adam, but even then he’s plenty warped. And what about Jessa and Shoshanna? Marnie is at least getting some spectacularly depressing plot to chew on. Jessa and Shoshanna have more or less amounted to nothing thus far. Again though, half a season still remains. So why do we watch Girls? Is it because we like watching people fail over and over again? Maybe that’s part of it. Maybe it’s because we relate to these characters on some level and empathize with them. Or maybe it’s because we want to learn from their mistakes before we make them ourselves. I wonder if the characters of Girls were given the chance to watch the show, would they take anything away from it and learn, or simply laugh at themselves and move on with their lives? Tim Butler is a sophomore film and television studies major. He has been writing for the Cynic since spring 2013.
It’s also one of the most physically demanding roles I’ve been a part of. VC: What’s it like getting into Johnny’s character? JN: It’s awesome. It’s so fun to dive into his world. It’s incredibly rewarding because I relate to him so much.
I’m so emotionally exhausted after the show. The highs are so high and the lows are so low you just feel knocked around the entire show. VC: Were you a Green Day fan before the show? JN: Yeah I was definitely. I think I started listening
to them when I was in fourth grade. I never realized how good a lyricist Billie Joe was until I started working on the show. It’s cool to look at that aspect of Green Day that I hadn’t discovered beforehand. VC: Which cast member would you say has the closest personality to the character they play? JN: We all are pretty different from our characters but we’re able to tap into something that’s tangible in our lives to get into character. I would say Casey who’s playing Will. He does his own thing and he’s very independent. VC: What is your favorite song/scene in the show? JN: I really love doing “Boulevard of Broken Dreams.” That’s the point in the show where Johnny finds his voice. He’s been looking for some sort of outlet to express how his life has been going and finally he moves away from this suburban lifestyle where he felt so suppressed. I love it because I’m standing on a stage and I have all these projections behind me and I get to shine in that moment.
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Be spontaneous, be kind and live your life. These were a few of the words written on Kendra Bowers’ list of goals for how to
live her life. She was a person who could always put a smile on your face. Beautiful inside and out, Kendra was the type of person that you just couldn’t forget. Maybe it was her contagious smile, her indecisive yet stubborn personality, or her selflessness that set Kendra apart and left those whom she met with this inexplicable happiness. However the spirit that Kendra possessed is not lost. Whether you knew her well enough to
make fun of her for the green penguin pajama pants she wore or just knew her in passing, that spirit she had has been dispersed into each and every one of us. As a community, we experienced the pain of Kendra’s passing together, we mourned together and we continue to support each other. We at the Cynic believe that is what makes this campus community so special. You may not have known her, but Kendra, her friends and her family have been in the thoughts of us all. But when that pain gets hard, remember her spirit, and hold onto it. Remember Kendra’s Ray Bans, remember her fashion sense, remember her love for dessert. Remember that we all have something to learn from Kendra. Some of us delay and put off living our
lives. Between our planning and preparing for the future we forget to take this moment we have now and live in it, truly live in it. This wasn’t Kendra. She was the exception. She was spontaneous, she was kind, she lived her life. When she made up her mind about something she stuck to her guns and never took no for an answer. If she wanted to do something, she did it. If she didn’t know how, she’d learn. If people doubted her, she didn’t care. Now we’ll leave you with this, don’t let the loss of Kendra be in vain. Take that spirit that she’s given us and use it. Don’t make plans; be spontaneous in everything you do. Don’t hold in your anger; be kind to those who you meet. Don’t wish for the future; live for right now. Live for Kendra.
Cynic staff quick opinions “What is a naturalist’s favourite fragrance? Frankensense and Muir!” - Josh Gachette
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Editor’s Notes: A News article in Issue 16 incorrectly stated resident Patrick Rooney’s plea in the Vermont Superior Court. He in fact pleaded notguilty to the charges of stealing a historical document from the Fletcher Free Library.
Unsigned editorials officially reflect the views of the Cynic and its staff. All signed opinion pieces and columns do not necessarily do so. The Cynic accepts letters in response to anything you see printed as well as any issues of interest in the community. Please limit letters to 350 words. Send letters to cynicopinion@gmail.com
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COLUMNISTS
Bieber, please leave NSA trolling
online profiles
Seth Wade It was an outrage, a scandal; it was justice, a deserved victory. Around the time other high schools were divided between Team Jacob and Team Edward, mine was locked in a fight between Team GaGa and Team Bieber. With every student claiming loyalty to one side or another, the chaos only increased when Justin Bieber won Artist of the Year over Lady Gaga at the 2010 American Music Awards. I was not a pacifist in that war. However, years have passed: my generation has broken out of the teen years; popstars have come and gone. Still, even when the songs “Baby” and “Bad Romance” were fighting for attention, my comrades and I tried to counter Bieber-fever. I never would have guessed that Americans would petition President Obama for that bobhaired heartthrob to be deported back to Canada. Yes, over 100,000 individuals gladly signed such a petition and now the president must respond. Granted, he’s had quite a wild ride these last few years. Allegations of assault, public urination and drug use decorate his journey as an American celebrity. He’s been in and out of relationships and he cut his famous boyish-locks. And while he’s done all of this, and other things not mentioned, he does not deserve to be deported. Keep in mind: as a GaGa veteran, that’s hard for me to say.
Braden Keiser
The fact remains that Bieber has done nothing new. Charlie Sheen, Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan, Amanda Bynes, Chris Brown: the list of celebrities doing something illegal, crude or stupid is endless. It can be argued whether or not Bieber deserves deportation but I believe that most of the signed names were written jokingly. In fact, that’s the real scare of this whole ordeal: that over 100,000 individuals so willingly signed that petition, advocated the deportation of a fellow American – whose mistakes, the reasoning behind the proposal, are made by youths across the nation. It says a lot about our culture when so many Americans ask President Obama to deport Bieber. It says a lot about our culture when so many Americans ask President Obama to deport anyone, for that matter. Even if the petitioners signed in jest, it’s a serious proposition and not really a laughing matter.
It doesn’t project a healthy image. It doesn’t promote tolerance. To the many undocumented Americans in the U.S., deportation isn’t a threat to use jokingly. Of course, Obama isn’t going to deport Bieber. We’re all going to giggle when we hear the official White House response. Bieber will most likely continue his bad behavior. The role of the celebrity in America will continue evolving, and we’ll continue to feed the fodder of gossip and buzzing news. But next time, we should reflect on what we’re saying and advocating. Do we want such a culture? Are we really advocating for the deportation of those who we don’t like? As a GaGa veteran, I’d be the first to say bye, bye to Bieber, but I’d be the last to force him out of the country. Seth Wade is a first-year English major. He has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2013.
Campus voices
In Vermont only 12 of 17 bumble bee species remain today. Thoughts? “I think it’s tied to overconsumption. It’s obviously awful and a sign that something is wrong. Bees do so much for the ecosystem besides what we know about.” - junior Carly Jensen “It’s probably colony collapse disorder. Bees get into crops with pesticides on them, which makes them disoriented; they never return to the colony.” - first-year Maggie Holahan
On a cold Saturday, the first of February, Senator Bernie Sanders held a town meeting entitled “NSA: Out Of Control.” “We should be concerned with the secrecy,” Georgetown law professor David Cole said at the Vermont State House. Our Internet and cellular activity leaves a trace. Every text, every credit card purchase, every link, every email and every phone call tells an Internet Service Provider or cell network where you are, who you are with and what you are thinking about. For more than a decade, the National Security Association has been collecting this metadata from the public. For example, the NSA collects more than 200 million text messages a day. From this information, the government can build a profile that can categorize you by political and religious ideologies and in general form a web of your digital existence. In this modern age, your digital existence is more than an artificial addition to your life; it is a fingerprint of your identity. This warrantless seizure of our information was collected while we were unaware, all without probable cause. “Democracy needs transparency from the government and privacy for its citizens; instead, we have a government which insists on privacy for itself and transparency upon its people.” Cole said to a roaring applause from the crowd. Some argue that the government requires this information, in order to ensure the safety of its citizens. In reality, as Heidi Boghosian from the National Lawyers Guild said, the NSA bulk data program may have confirmed a few instances of terrorist’s
threats. But it has shown little light on new clues, especially those clues which would justify such large-scale gathering of data. Sanders came to the stage and discussed the massive corporate interests profiting from such seizure of data. The ability to tailor searches to consumer interests and to profile Americans to buy goods. The conversation moves on to discuss the self-censoring of writers whom are too frightened to search items on the internet for research or to talk about a topic that might trigger investigation.
the NSA collects more than 200 million text messages a day Then the questions are asked: What do we do with legislation, and what do we do as public citizens? “We need legislation that allows transparency to see the policies of storage, who has access, how many times request annual reports,” Cole said. Anything will be a start as long as we are conscious that so much power rests in the hands of the corporations. But, we are not there yet. We won’t get the laws in place until there is a greater cultural sensitivity to the importance of protecting privacy in the digital age. “Our job is to stand up and say, ‘the issue of human rights and freedom is a huge one, but if you can’t stand for these privacy rights, you can’t get my vote,” Sanders said. “The government of the U.S. should listen to the ordinary people, instead of big money and big interests,” he said.
Braden Keiser is a junior English major. He has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2013.
SOBERING QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“One in seven Americans, or about 47 million people, participates in the [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance] Program. The legislation cuts food stamps by about $800 million. ” ABC News on the latest Farm Bill slated to reach President Obama’s desk this week.
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D I ST R ACT I O N S
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5 , 2014
Five fun things to do in winter With winter in full force and snow piling up, it’s time to make the most of the season. Snowshoeing This fun winter pastime is often overlooked, but there are many places to snowshoe around Vermont. Plus, it makes for an interesting twist on hiking in the winter months.
Snowball Fights It might be a stereotypical winter activity, but that doesn’t make it any less fun. Besides, your friends from the west coast will make easy targets.
Hibernation
While most cold weather activities gravitate around being outside and playing in the snow, some days are made for staying inside. Grab a book and hide under your blankets for a cozy winter day.
Drinking hot chocolate by a fire Warm and dry, this activity is best enjoyed after a long day outdoors. Throw off your mittens and hat and plop down by the fire; you won’t regret it.
Sledding on Redstone This popular activity is essential to try during your time at UVM. The hills are big enough, sleds aren’t hard to find and best of all it’s close by!
Illustrations by Alison Staffin
Sports
Swim and dive team comes on strong Emma Oyomba Staff Writer The women’s swimming and diving team has had a solid season. The team’s current record is 7-7 and they hope to swim their way to success in the America East Championships. The Catamounts had trouble earning victories early on in the year. In their season opener at Army in West Point, N.Y., Vermont lost to Boston University 204-96 then fell to Army 197103. First-year Courtney Gray took second place in the 100 butterfly event with a time of 57.91 and was Vermont’s top finisher. “Our freshmen have really stepped up this season and they have had a huge impact on our success,” coach Gerry Cournoyer said. Following the meet at Army, the Catamounts traveled to Staten Island, N.Y. to face off against Wagner College. Despite setting three pool records, the Cats fell to the Seahawks 172-128. Sophomore Christa Weaver won both the 50 and 100 freestyle events, setting new Wagner pool records in both events. Gray earned her first indi-
vidual win of her career as she finished first in the 100 butterfly event with a time of 58.12. The following week the Catamounts traveled to Durham, N.H. to compete against the University of New Hampshire. Although Vermont earned the top spot in seven events, they fell to the Wildcats 171129. Going into November, Vermont found what they had been missing when they faced off against Siena College Nov. 2. The meet marked the start of a six-game winning streak for Vermont. The Catamounts earned the top spot in 10 events and broke two pool records on their way to defeating Siena 132-90 in their home opener. “Our focus this season has been to develop each one of our athletes and help them to compete at a high level,” Cournoyer said. That is exactly what they have done. Weaver, who has been named America East swimmer of the week three times this season, took first place in the 100 freestyle event and broke pool records with a time of 51.99. Senior Eva Wimberley was strong in her event as she swam her way to the top time in the 100 breaststroke.
“I feel that this team is very well prepared and they will compete at a very high level.” Gerry Cournoyer coach The Catamounts went on to win against UMaine, Central Connecticut State University, Merrimack College and Bryant University. They also earned first place at the Terrier Invitational hosted by Boston University. This is a meet that Weaver and her team said that they were especially proud of. “It was a meet that showed our depth and true potential,” Weaver said. “The win was truly a teamwide accomplishment. Every member of the team rose to the challenge,” she said. “I feel that this team is very well prepared and they will compete at a very high level,” Cournoyer said. The Catamounts will take those words with them as they go onto compete in the America East Championships in Worchester, Mass. Feb. 13 through 16.
BECCA ADAMS The Vermont Cynic
A member of the swimming and diving team dives during a meet against the University of Maine Nov. 9. Their current record is 7-7.
Sports Nicholas
Illness sets back: “Ironman” rebounds again Nick White
Do you know Jeff Green? Just after the NBA lockout was lifted in 2011, Boston Celtic Jeff Green was diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm; a swelling of the body’s main artery and a potentially life threatening condition.
Illustration by Dana Ortiz
The news shocked his teammates, coaches and close friends, including Kevin Durant, who dedicated his season to Green. It wasn’t long before Green would find himself lying in a hospital bed struggling to breathe. Green had played four successful years for Georgetown University as a top-tier player, hitting multiple buzzer-beaters in March Madness competitions. He was hailed by Georgetown head coach John Thompson III as “the smartest player I’ve ever coached.” After declaring himself for the NBA draft, he went to the Celtics as the fifth pick in the first round. He was later involved in the trade that brought Ray Allen to join Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce in what was to become the original “Big 3” and in turn, lead Boston to their 17th NBA Championship in 2008. Eventually, the “Big 3” was traded away as the Boston faithful feared an aging team. As Danny Ainge, the Celtics general manager, slowly began shipping off key components to other teams for promised future draft picks, Jeff Green made his way back to Boston quietly. As a result of his condition, Green’s career was in jeopardy and everything he had worked for since he was kid, not to
mention his life, was on the line. But after a successful surgery and 100 percent commitment to getting back in shape, Green soon proved himself worthy of professional ball once again. In 2012, he re-signed to a four-year, $36 million dollar contract with the Celtics and soon was back to practicing with the players and starting alongside the Celtics crown jewel that is Rajon Rondo. At 6’9” and nothing short of a beast, Green proved himself to be a physical player who works well off the ball. His comeback was huge. Big, off the dribble dunks and flashy finishes soon became a familiar sight for Boston fans. One-on-one, he resembles Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady due to big, posterizing dunks on some of the league’s best like Al Jefferson, Shane Battier, Chris Bosh and Carmelo Anthony. He’s also posted multiple, 30-plus point performances and on Nov. 9, 2013, Green showed the entire sportswatching world greatness. Green hit a corner, fadeaway three-point shot with seconds left in the fourth quarter to lift the Celtics over the Miami Heat, with the best player in the league, Lebron James, in his face. These were the kind of plays
found in hall-of-fame flashback reels, Michael Jordan Youtube videos or a teenage boy’s living room who hit the shot just right on his Xbox controller. You couldn’t make up a better comeback story than Green’s. He’s been through hardship, almost no trash talk and even after his show time plays, there’s little for the camera afterward. What’s great about Green is that he just plays basketball, and leaves little else when it comes to the off-court dramas or a little something extra for the fans at home. He donates to various charities and SportsCenter did a small piece on his recovery, but other than that, there is little information on the guy. He’s kind of a ghost. So I’ll leave you with this: Do you know Jeff Green? After selfproclaiming himself as “Ironman,” I might just believe him. Nick White is a junior anthropology major. He has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2013.
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S PO RTS
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2014
Sports Con-Greg-ation
New champ victorious in Aussie Open Greg Asnis Gamblers emptied their pockets Jan. 26 as No. 8 ranked Stanislas “Stan the man” Wawrinka beat Spain’s raging bull, Rafael Nadal, in a four-set shocker. Wawrinka became the first player to ever win against both No. 1 Nadal and No. 2 Novak Djokovic in a Grand Slam tournament. He also became the second Swiss man (behind Roger Federer) to win a Grand Slam singles championship. His previous match record with Nadal was 0-12, losing all 26 sets. Statistics aside, Wawrinka came out in the first set burying shots. Both players were playing solid tennis. At the beginning of the second set Nadal took a temporary medical timeout due to back pain. Wawrinka finished the set strong and quickly outmatched Nadal. Capitalizing on the injury,
Stan took the set quickly. Nadal, dealing with a weak back, modified his game. This threw Wawrinka for a spin. Unable to adjust for slowpaced serves with crazy spin, Nadal took the third set. The fourth set was make-orbreak-it. Wawrinka capitalized late in the set but broke serve to make it 4-2. But Nadal came back with a score of 4-3. The next game was the straw that broke the camel’s back, or the bull’s in this case. Stan went up 5-3, to serve out the final game of the match. The Big Four- Federer, Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray- have dominated men’s tennis for the last 10 years. When I say dominated, I mean it. Claiming 34 of the last 36 major titles. That is serious stuff. The oldest of the four, Federer, is losing steam. His ranking will soon drop to eighth place, a spot he hasn’t hit since 2002. Could the “Stanimal” be the next to fill Roger’s spot in the Big Four? Or could the Big Four give birth to another Swiss player, becoming the “Big Five?” It is probably too early to say.
Statistics from the match Aces 19-1 39 unforced errors (19 in third set) 87% first serve points 11-0 in 2014 for matches A similar event occurred in 2009 when Argentinean Juan Martín del Potro won the U.S. Open title. The only other non-Big Four player to win one of the past 36 Grand Slam titles. Although del Potro’s current ranking of fourth place is respectable, he has yet to win another major title. In 2010, del Potro finished the year at No. 258 due to a wrist injury, and since then has ranged anywhere from No. 11 to No. 4 in the rankings. It is hard to say if anyone expected Wawrinka to win the Australian Open. “I still don’t know if I’m dreaming or not,” Wawrinka said to an eagerly awaiting crowd. “But we’ll see tomorrow morning.” Greg Asnis is a first-year business administration major. He has been writing for the Cynic since spring 2014.
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