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ISSUE 14

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 9, 2 0 1 5

Students study in Bailey/Howe Library Dec. 5. The UVM Faculty Senate Committee on Student Affairs proposed a resolution to reschedule reading days.

The Vermont Cynic

OLIVER POMAZI/

Reading days cut starting in fall Staff report

Students will have five consecutive days of exams starting fall semester 2016.

Reading days will be removed, UVM officials say.

This new schedule change is due to a resolution passed by the Student Affairs Committee of the Faculty Senate.

Some students said they are upset by the idea of eliminating reading days.

“Thank God I’m leaving, are they nuts?” senior Danielle Manginelli said.

“I need stress relief and I need to study and that’s what reading days are for,” Manginel-

li said.

There is an increase in alcohol and marijuana violations and student detoxes on reading days, according to the Brief Alcohol Screening Intervention for College Students Program, said Jeff Rettew, assistant director of LivingWell.

B.A.S.I.C. is a motivational intervention program for students with multiple alcohol offenses, according to the Center for Health and Wellbeing.

Jon Porter, Director of the Center for Health and Wellbeing, said he is concerned about the Naked Bike Ride, which occurs on the last day of classes.

“Naked Bike Ride worries

me every year just based on what we see in terms of detoxes and physical injuries, ranging through interpersonal violence and inappropriate sexual contact,” Porter said.

He said it is a positive thing if students do not end their semester partying with drugs and alcohol.

“I was there when the Faculty Senate voted on it, and I think there was a lot of agreement for the reasons we’ve talked about: stress during the semester, giving students a release valve in October and that long weekend,” Porter said. “Like every change, we have to see how it works.”

First-year Tim Smith believes more students use reading days to study than party.

“Even though some people take advantage of them to party or whatever, the number of people who do use them is worth keeping them,” Smith said. “I don’t think the benefits [of removing reading days] outweigh the drawbacks.”

Sophomore Bonny Filker also said finals are stressful.

“Finals are the most stressful time,” Filker said. “I desperately need [reading days].”

Sophomore Madeleine Cary expressed similar sentiments.

“Weekends are distracting, you’re working, you’re seeing

friends,” Cary said. “Reading days are my lifeblood. I am 110 percent against this.”

Junior Leo McCarthy believes the schedule change will affect students’ grades.

“It’s not worth it, even for a shorter school year. I would ask for more Reading Days, even if finals go later into the year,” McCarthy said.

“Binge drinking is going to happen either way,” he said.

“People use those days for sleep, too, no one’s going to be rested, and our grades are going to get worse.”

SEE READING PAGE 3

UVM welcomes a new all-inclusive chapter by willa Richmond wcrichmo@uvm.edu

Junior Sheila Cruz said that on her first day of college, she only counted five people of color on campus.

“I didn’t want to just be another statistic, the token half-Latina, half-African American girl,” said Cruz, Theta Delta Sigma President.

This feeling was what drew her to join Theta Delta Sigma, UVM’s newest Greek life chapter. The group, which only consists of three members, believes in the advancement of social justice efforts at UVM, Cruz said.

“The mission is to bring together all backgrounds who are dedicated to promoting diversity, raising minority awareness [and] demonstrating solidarity in a unique bond of unity,” she said.

Theta Delta Sigma is a fraternity, but they are open to men, women and those that don’t identify as either. They call themselves a “society,” Cruz

“

I just like the idea of accepting. I want people to be accepting of me, and in that way, you must be accepting of others.

SHEILA CRUZ PRESIDENT OF SOCIETY said.

“It’s a siblinghood,” she said.

“Some of our members are gender-fluid, we wanted inclusive names. For me, it means family.

It shouldn’t be about gender.”

Theta Delta Sigma arrived on campus Sept. 2015, but originated at the State University of New York at Buffalo in 2001, according to the national Theta Delta Sigma website.

Currently, UVM is one of the nine chapters in the U.S., and one of three that started in 2015, according to the site.

(Left to right) Fraternity members sophomore Sha’Kylah Morris, junior Sheila Cruz and graduate Lynn Wales perform an initiation ritual in front of the Bailey/Howe Library Nov. 19. PHOTO COURTESY

OF THETA SIGMA DELTA AT UVM

Cruz said she decided to help start this society at UVM because she saw other sororities doing food drives and philanthropies, but “on the topic of social justice didn’t see much happening.”

“I didn’t see a place I would exactly fit, and I wanted to bring

that,” she said. “I just like the idea of accepting. I want people to be accepting of me, and in that way, you must be accepting of others.”.

The “society” is not exclusive and welcomes “all colors,” Cruz said.

“You hear the word multicul-

tural, and often think only people of color,” Cruz said.

“We don’t want that,” she said. “Even if it’s awkward, conversations will start. We want all races to be heard.”

“I could make a rally, but not everyone can,” Cruz said.

SEE SOCIETY PAGE 2

2

THE VERMONT CYNIC

NEWS

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 9, 2015

Bernie volunteers storm dorms

BY PABLO MURPHY-TORRES pmurphyt@uvm.edu

Reslife is reaching out to campaign offices to inform them of UVM’s solicitation policy.

“Here’s the plan: we are going to try and get as many people as possible to get involved in the campaign,” Shane McKibbins, the Burlington volunteer coordinator for the Sanders campaign said, addressing the students before they began Dec. 2.

Rafael Rodriguez, associate director for Assessment and Strategic Initiatives for ResLife, said Reslife is reaching out to local campaign offices to inform them of the solicitation policy according to a Dec. 7 email.

Students showed support for Bernie Sanders by gathering in the Greenhouse lobby to canvass for his campaign.

Following a post made on the University of Vermont Students for Bernie Sanders Facebook page Nov. 30, a group of students met to knock on students’ doors and ask them to volunteer for Sander’s campaign in New Hampshire.

“The goal will be canvassing in the dorms to spread the word about opportunities to get involved with the campaign,” the post stated.

(Left to right) Sophomore Clare Cecil and first-year Anastasia Tsekeris canvass for the Bernie Sanders campaign in University Heights South Dec. 2. Canvassing is not allowed in the dorms according to the University’s solicitation policy. OLIVER POMAZI/The Vermont Cynic Door-to-door canvassing in residence halls is not allowed, according to the University’s solicitation policy.

“No resident, UVM student organization or other individual or group is permitted to engage in any door-to-door canvassing activities, such as solicitation or campaigning, in the student living areas of residence halls,” the policy states.

“Our solicitation policy does prohibit activities, such as political campaigning, in the Residence Halls,” Rodriguez wrote

in the email.

First-year Margaux Higgins, a member of UVM Students for Bernie Sanders, said she did not know canvassing in the dorms is against UVM’s solicitation policy.

The students met in the University Heights South lobby and were briefed on how to proceed in the canvassing process by McKibbins.

The goal of the “dorm storm” was to get volunteers for local campaigning and the New Hampshire Democratic prima-

ry, McKibbins said.

The “dorm storm,” was not intended to impose political ideologies , but rather to give information to those who wanted it, he said.

“You want to introduce yourselves, let them know you are here and see if they are supportive of Bernie. If they are not supportive, we are just going to move on,” McKibbins said.

“We are not here to convince anyone because that would be not cool under school rules,” he said.

SOCIETY CONT. FROM PG. 1 can you do to help? Let’s find what you’re good at, make it bigger, and impact the world.”

Members of UVM’s established Greek Life said fraternities and sororities have warmly welcomed Theta Delta Sigma’s arrival.

“I think that whenever we gain a new organization in [Fraternity and Sorority Life] community it is good for everyone because it offers students a unique experience as compared to the other organizations,” said junior Kelton Bogasky, president of the Pi Kappa Alpha sorority.

Sophomore Chris Sullivan, president of Delta Upsilon, said his fraternity is also excited and looks to the future.

“I don’t really know what to expect; it will all depend on how they recruit and the types of members they recruit,” Sullivan said.

But what kind of members will Theta Delta Sigma look to recruit? “[We want] members who are motivated and influential and want to make an actual change,” Cruz said. “I would like to see ‘a line of 20’ when we all stand side by side as siblings.

I would love to see my society grow on this campus.”

“Theta will be a beautiful name,” Cruz said.

Student goes to court after charges of alleged assault

by Bryan O’keefe & Caroline alkire bpokeefe@uvm.edu — calkire@uvm.edu

After allegedly threatening his roommate with a butane lighter Oct. 29, a first-year student is seeking to reduce his penalty in court.

Connor Ferreira allegedly threatened his roommate, firstyear Zach Pittel, with a butane torch and prevented him from

leaving their dorm room on the evening of Oct. 29, according to a Nov. 18 Cynic article.

Ferreira was released Nov. 4 on $10,000 bail, according to court documents.

Victim’s advocate Kathyria Ferrer-Rodriguez spoke on Pittel’s behalf, indicating that Pittel wanted to increase the charges against Ferreira.

“He wanted a harsher pun-

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ishment,” Ferrer-Rodriguez said. “The understanding from him was that the defendant was spreading rumors around school that [Pittel] was the aggressor and that he [is] having issues now with regards to that.”

Ferreira’s attorney, Richard Goldsborough said Ferreira was not trying to harm Pittel with a torch.

“These people are friends,”

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Goldsborough said. “They went to a party together the very next day on Halloween after this incident. There were no injuries to Mr. Pittel. There was alcohol and marijuana used by my client. It was fuzzy.”

“UVM decided that he would not be expelled for this,” Goldsborough said.

“They’re allowing him to finish his current semester before the suspension kicks in, and they’re allowing him back in after two semesters of suspension provided he signs up and completes the Discovery program,” he said.

He applied for the Center for Student Ethics and Standards’ Project Discovery program, Goldsborough said The program is an alternative to suspension designed to increase participants’ awareness of their substance abuse and violence prevention, according to the Center for Health and Wellbeing’s website.

If accepted, Ferreira will return to UVM and complete the program under probation after a two-semester suspension. If not, he will be suspended for three full semesters, Goldsbor-

ough said.

Keith Smith, the coordinator for men’s outreach at CAPS and co-facilitator of Project Discovery, said he associates violence in men with their expected role in society.

“Men become violent because we socialize men to suppress pretty much all of their feelings except anger,” Smith said. “The other emotions are considered signs of weakness, and men are always trying to show they aren’t weak.”

Chittenden County attorney Stacy Graczyk, who represents the state of Vermont in this case, said the state understood that drugs and alcohol were involved in the altercation.

“We wanted a pre-assessment done concerning substances and mental health issues,” Graczyk said.

Pittel did not appear at the hearing. Graczyk said she felt it would be a better option to wait to hear from Pittel himself.

Judge Gregory Rainville decided to postpone the hearing until Dec. 10, pending testimony from Pittel.

CORRECTIONS In a Dec. 2 article titled “Students stand up for Syrians” it was incorrectly stated that senior Caroline Decunzo helped organize the Montpelier rally and that she is an SGA senator.

We are committed to accuracy in all of our work. If for some reason there is an error, please email us at corrections@ vtcynic.com.

THE VERMONT CYNIC

NEWS

New drug trial helps patients

by Caroline Alkire calkire@uvm.edu UVM has joined a number of universities testing a drug that is giving patients the chance to try an alternative style of treatment for a disabling disease.

While most people with Parkinson’s opt for oral medication, this is not always effective, neurology professor James Boyd said.

Duopa is a trial drug that utilizes a pump which allows medicine to be dripped directly into a patient’s intestine to be absorbed by the body, Boyd said.

Parkinson’s disease affects the brain. It occurs when the body produces low levels of dopamine, a chemical that regulates and controls many body functions including movement, Boyd said.

It is an incurable disease, but its symptoms, such as rigidity in movement and incapacitation, are highly treatable, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Boyd has been a part of two Duopa trials at UVM. The first one in 2008 focused on testing the drug for safety. The second trial, beginning in 2010, focused on getting FDA approval by showing the effectiveness of the drug, he said.

Normal protocol for diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s is to try to stop or slow the condition itself, Boyd said.

“Currently, we don’t have anything that halts the condi-

DEC. 1

SGA Updates by alexandra shannon amshanno@uvm.edu

Society of American Foresters seperates from UVM Woodsman Team A bill was approved which separates the Society of American Foresters and the UVM Woodsman Team.

According to the bill, the two organizations split to foster individual growth and development.

The Woodsman Team exists to provide career development whereas the foresters compete at a collegiate level, according to the bill.

SGA derecognizes clubs

Neurology professor James Boyd describes a new trial drug for Parkinson’s disease Dec. 4. The drug increases dopamine intake in the brain. OLIVER POMAZI/The Vermont Cynic tion from getting worse, and that’s where a lot of research is right now,” Boyd said.

Patients receive medicines that look like dopamine to the brain or others that allow the brain to produce more dopamine, he said.

These medicines are given to patients in pill form, which are usually taken every two hours, Boyd said.

“Some people experience incapacitation for a third or even half of their days,” he said. “So when you have half of the day

with your medicine not working, there’s a lot of opportunity here to try to give these people back some functional time.”

The Duopa pump expels medicine into a patient’s intestines every few minutes, ensuring a continuous intake of the drug, Boyd said.

“If they feel like they’re getting too low or too slow, they have a button on the pump they can press that gives them a bit of a jolt in dosage,” he said.

The results of the Duopa trial were successful, said Em-

ily Houston, a clinical research coordinator who worked with Boyd on the trial.

“I’ve seen the major improvements this therapy has had on patient’s motor symptoms and quality of life,” Houston said.

“It’s been exciting to offer a treatment that could have such a positive effect, and to feel like we are giving these patients exactly what they had been waiting for,” she said.

UVM developing new drone policy by courtney cunningham cecunnin@uvm.edu UVM is developing a policy to make drone use safer on campus and at University-sanctioned events.

The University formed a group of people with legal experience and managers to address how drones will be used within the UVM community called the Drone Working Group, Al Turgeon, the group’s chair said.

“If you’re going to fly them on campus you need to request it through this Drone Working Group,” Turgeon said. “We will look at how the [drones] will be flown on campus, and if it conforms to Federal Aviation Administration rules.”

Members of the group said they have some concerns with students flying drones on campus.

“Some of these blades can cut and hurt someone so what we are trying to make sure is that we give the widest latitude to fly these things, but safely,” Turgeon said.

UVM’s drone policy would follow privacy policies the University already has in place, he said.

“We certainly wouldn’t want one of these things flying over a resident’s hall fourth floor and having them peering in on a student,” Turgeon said.

Drone regulation was spoken about by the Risk Managment Team, Mary Dewey, director of Risk Management

3

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 9, 2 015

Owner of BTV Drones Jordan Wires flies a drone over University Green, Nov. 19. Students are currently trying to start a drone flying club on campus but it will need to be approved by UVM Risk Management before being recognized by SGA. COURTNEY CUNNINGHAM/The Vermont Cynic said.

UVM Department of Risk Management & Safety proposes solutions to possible health and safety hazards, according to the department’s website.

“Students won’t arbitrarily be allowed to fly drones on campus,” Dewey said.

While that might be the policy the school is working toward, UVM currently has no drone policy, group members said.

The FAA has guidelines on how to safely fly drones on their website.

The consequence for reckless use of a drone that endan-

gers people or another aircraft is a fine, the guidelines state.

Jordan Wires, the owner of BTV Drones said that it is hard to police drone laws.

BTV Drones is a company that provides aerial video and photography with drones.

“At the end of the day the FAA can set their rules but there’s no one really there to enforce them,” Wires said.

Without a drone policy concerning issues could arise, he said.

“It’s not a matter of if you’re going to crash but when,” Wires said.

First-year Nelson Healy

said he is hoping to form a club of responsible drone users on campus.

“People who are not involved in the community can just ignore the rules completely and that’s a problem because it makes everyone look bad,” Healy said.

The club is waiting for clearance from Risk Management before SGA recognition, Healy said.

UVM owns drones that they have used for GPS mapping, surveying land, accident flyovers and aerial imagery, according to members of the Drone Working Group.

A bill passed derecognizing Young Americans for Liberty, ONE at UVM and Students for Peace and Global Justice.

According to the bill, these clubs have not maintained contact with SGA or a consistent membership,.

SGA approves funds for Women’s Club Hockey Women’s club ice hockey was allocated $3,600 for transportation to an event in Virginia.

READING CONT. FROM PG. 1

When looking at the change the Faculty Senate allotted a 3-day break for mental health, while still maintaining a weeklong Thanksgiving break, Thomas Chittenden, the cochair for the Faculty Committee for Student Affairs said.

The faculty also spoke to SGA to get their input, he said.

“I went to SGA last January and presented these topics and got their feedback. It was a healthy conversation,” Chittenden said.

One thing that SGA brought to the conversation was to include a shift in spring break, SGA President, Jason Maulucci said.

SGA wanted students to have the opportunity to participate in Town Meeting Day, Maulucci said.

There was no follow-up or vote from the faculty committee to SGA with the final decision, he said.

Registrar Keith Williams said he is proud that SGA was included in the schedule change.

“The fall break day was very important to the SGA, along with balancing the instructional days between the fall and spring semesters, something had to give,” he said.

“The debate was lengthy, there was a lot of concern for the stress of students,” Williams said.

Another change is a fall recess of one day Oct. 16 starting fall 2016, according to the academic calendar.

4

OPINION

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015 THE VERMONT CYNIC

S TA F F E D I T O R I A L

Reform ignores our needs W

ith barely any input from the student body, the University has decided to eliminate reading days beginning in fall 2016.

This change was made to allow for a fall break in October, as well as a shift in the timing of spring break to allow for students to participate in Burlington’s Town Meeting Day. Giving students a reprieve from stress in the middle of the fall is a great thing. Enabling students to have a say in local politics is also admirable.

However, this pro-student, pro-democratic decision was unfortunately made without the direct input of the student body at large. It was created by faculty members, administrators and SGA. University administrators have spoken on the record on how this fall break will benefit student mental health. Yet, students asked about this decision give a consistent and resounding feeling: they need the break before and during exams.

The schedule change turns what is a week-and-a-half exam period, with two free days for study, into a five-day sprint with no break.

Not only this, but officials maintain that professors will have the option to schedule their finals the Friday before the official exam period, potentially causing even more stress for students.

The administration claims this new schedule is in part a

ARIANA.ARDEN@ UVM.EDU

P

aranoia, paranoia, everybody’s comin’ to get me!

The world can be a terrifying place – there’s no denying it. And the increased amount of mass-shootings happening around the country are not helping.

Did you know that as of Dec. 2, there have been 335 mass shootings in the United States this year alone?

In case you were wondering, that’s 335 shootings in 336 days.

That’s insane. And what I would really like to know is how the hell I am ever going to feel safe now.

Burlington is a pretty tame city, but I don’t really feel safe here anymore.

Especially as we’re getting into winter and it gets darker sooner, it’s scary to walk around.

I have to pretend to be on the phone when I walk across campus at 7 p.m. and I’m still hyper-aware of my surround-

We need more liberal education and philosophers

D

Illustration by ALYSSA HANDELMAN

result of an increase in alcohol and marijuana violations found during this period.

In addition, this schedule change could spell the end of the Naked Bike Ride as we know it.

Surely this is a change students should have been asked about.

Contrast this with the process behind the University’s recent smoking ban.

In this case, the school facilitated focus groups, research and, most importantly, time for public comment during the four years after University officials

first recommended the implementation of a smoking ban.

The University tends to try things out and treat the results like they aren’t as important as the intended message; as director of Health and Wellbeing Jon Porter said, “Like every change, we have to see how it works.”

The difference between these decisions and the changes made to the schedule was that no majority asked for this; there was no public outcry, no loud call for those in charge to take action.

We call on the University to address the concerns of

students about the schedule change and take all voices into account in further decisions regarding the academic calendar.

Staff editorials officially reflect the views of the Vermont Cynic. 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. The Cynic reserves the right to edit letters for length and grammar. Please send letters to opinion@vtcynic.com.

No denying violence is on the mind Ariana arden

Letter to the Editor

ings.

Sometimes when I’m in my dorm room and hear people outside, I pray they don’t suddenly rush in and attack me, and sometimes I even check my closet when I come back from a shower, just to make sure no one is there.

Now, granted, I’m probably slightly more paranoid than the average person, but the point still stands!

This is getting out of hand and we can’t pretend it’s not affecting all of us.

No activity is safe anymore.

Want to go to the movies? Oops.

Thinking of running a marathon?

Did you know that as of Wednesday, Dec. 2, there have been 335 mass shootings in the United States this year alone?

Maybe not. Want to just attend college as a woman? Sorry, some crazy guy who couldn’t get a date is going to come shoot

you.

And the most ridiculous example: sending your kids to elementary school. Not even that is safe anymore.

incident, and we need to start working to fix it.

When people try to talk about gun control after events like these, others swoop in and

With news of this latest shooting in San Bernardino, we're having the same feelings we always do: sadness for the victims of this tragedy and frustration that these events keep happening.

How did it become a possibility that while seven-year-olds are learning their multiplication tables, a twenty-something with a rifle could burst in and kill them?

We can no longer shrug these off as impossibilities because they can and have and probably will happen. That is horrifying.

With news of this latest shooting in San Bernardino, we’re having the same feelings we always do: sadness for the victims of this tragedy and frustration that these events keep happening.

But this is not an isolated

push it under the rug and say “I can’t believe you’d try to use this tragedy for your political purposes!”

Surely we shouldn’t be insensitive, but we need to start having intelligent conversations about gun control.

I should be able to feel safe doing everyday activities, not paranoid I’m going to become another mass-shooting death statistic.

Ariana Arden is a sophomore English major. She has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2015.

ear Editor,

Liberal education, the study of the liberal arts and sciences, must remain the foundation of the American higher education system.

Nationwide, we’ve seen this concept fall under attack from the pundits, and even politicians from both sides of the aisle.

President Obama recently quipped about the value of one receiving an art history degree, and presidential-hopeful Marco Rubio dropped a well-crafted one liner in a recent debate that, “We need more welders and less philosophers.”

The rise of vocational and trade schools is certainly not a bad thing.

In fact, it’s great. Our society, and economy for that matter, needs its welders, engineers and mechanics.

But, we undoubtedly need our artists, historians and social scientists, as well.

The beauty of the American education system is that (unlike in many other places in the world) one’s academic and career fate is not predetermined by the government, or judged by an arbitrary exam that is taken before a child reaches their mid-teens.

In the United States, we are exposed to it all, and can determine for ourselves what we want to pursue. The study of the liberal arts and sciences exposes students to countless fields and opportunities.

Whether it be the social sciences that allow us to better understand ourselves and our actions, the humanities that teach us about culture and how we’ve become who we are, the fine arts that allow us to express our humanity, or the natural sciences that help explain the world around us, studying the arts and sciences teaches us the critical thinking and problem solving skills that are transferable, and needed in the job market today.

They establish a well-rounded and well-versed population that is so critical for the health and longevity of a prosperous society.

We must never lose sight of the value, and necessity, of a liberal education.

Sincerely, Jason Maulucci SGA President Class of 2017

Letters to the editor can be submitted to cynic@uvm. edu with a word limit of 400 words.

THE VERMONT CYNIC

OPINION

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 9, 2015

5

POINT/COUNTER-POINT

Trump, Carson and a ton of fools

Illustration by DANA ELLEMAN

Point: Republican candidates unqualified Gaetano Martello GMARTELL@UVM.EDU

T

he 2016 U.S. presidential race has been different from many in the past.

One of the most interesting things to witness is the amount of Republican candidates who genuinely believe they’re qualified for the job.

What has captured my attention this cycle is how the standards for being the lead candidate, specifically in the Republican party, are drastically different from those required by the Democrats.

In particular, all of the leading Democrats in the race are politicians.

One would think that being an experienced politician is one of the most important factors in qualifying someone whose aim is to occupy the most important office in the country.

After all, when applying for a senior position at any other job, the most significant qualifying factor is the amount of experience you have in that field.

The Democrats in this race, no matter what else has been said about them, fit this model.

Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders, the two candidates most likely to receive their party’s nomination, are both seasoned politicians who, if elected, will actually understand how to enact policy.

The Republican party’s most popular candidates stand in stark contrast to this model, which is evidence for how desperate and agenda-driven the Republican party has become.

At this point, no one even cares whether the Republican candidate has any idea how to enact policy – what matters is that a Republican is in office.

Since none of the Republicans in Washington have any pull with the American public anymore, they have turned their attention toward Don-

Counterpoint: They are not the only ones

ald Trump and Ben Carson, neither of whom have had any experience in politics before.

Both have risen to their positions by catering to their party’s wishes in bi-

One of the most interesting things to witness is the amount of Republican candidates who genuinely believe they're qualified for the job.

zarre and extreme ways.

This is not to say that the Democratic party has never been guilty of similar crimes.

No one in any party gets elected without pandering to some audience.

The extent, to which the Republicans are willing to go in order to put one of their members in office is representative of how incongruent their policy is with the wishes of the American public, and should be a wakeup call to their supporters to reconsider being a part of their party.

This just goes to show that no matter how much money you pump into an election, if your message doesn’t resonate with voters, it will become increasingly difficult for you to even be considered.

If the Republicans cannot put forward their best and brightest in Washington to become president, it shows how disconnected they are from those they claim to represent.

Gaetano Martello is a sophomore political science major. He has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2014.

Kate Lipman KATE.LIPMAN@UVM. EDU

T

he 2016 Presidential race has been very interesting so far, particularly on the Republican side with so many candidates this time around.

In terms of the argument of my counterpart, I have to disagree on a few of his points. All of the candidates except for Trump, Fiorina and Carson, are politicians, with more experience than Barack Obama when he was first elected.

While I do agree that it is important to have some political experience before becoming president, I believe that integrity, intelligence and honesty are important which one candidate in particular is seriously lacking.

Experience is only good if it is successful, in which case the Democratic candidates are lacking. This includes Martin O’Malley with his rain tax in Maryland, and Hillary Clinton, though it seems her supporters have forgotten how she left the Middle East in flames and abandoned an ambassador and three others to die because she was more concerned about optics than doing what was right.

Our government is supposed to be ‘by the people for the people’ and not run by a political elite.

It is up to the people to decide whom they would like to support, whether or not they have political experience.

Right now some of the Republican Party is taking a look at these outsiders because they are fed up with career politicians who are so entrenched in Washington and paid off by their donors that they no longer care what the people want.

A good example of this is in action today is the New Hampshire State House. While I personally support Marco Rubio, I certainly understand where

Trump, Carson and Fiorina supporters are coming from in wanting someone who is not a Washington insider.

I also believe that while Trump has little to no political experience, his professional experience growing a business empire certainly gives him a better understanding of how the economy works than a socialist who honeymooned in the Soviet Union.

Republicans liking Donald Trump and Ben Carson does not make them desperate and agenda driven. In fact it makes them the opposite.

If they were desperate and agenda driven they would not give a candidate like Trump the time of day, they would only look at the typical politicians my counterpart seems so fond of. In my opinion desperate and agenda driven

Our government is supposed to be 'by the people for the people' and not run by a political elite. is voting for someone even though you know they lied to the American Public and Congress, like Clinton and Elizabeth Warren.

Agenda-driven and desperate is also when someone will vote along the party line no matter what, as is the case with many Democrats I know who say though they “hate” Clinton.

They will vote for her in the general election to keep a Republican out of office.

Our democracy is based on the concept that we the people should have self-determination and the power to govern ourselves, so I do not see the point in attacking Republicans for supporting candidates they believe in, because that is part of what our country is all about.

Kate Lipman is a junior Russian and Eastern Studies major. She has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2014.

LIFE

6

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 , 2015 THE VERMONT CYNIC

Chris' Critique

On campus coffee for your exam cram GREEN MOUNTAIN COFFEE (MARKETPLACE)

by christopher leow cleow@uvm.edu

F

inals are coming and for most students that means late nights, flashcards and lots of coffee. To help with the latter, I’ve compiled a list of coffees around campus and my thoughts on them:

SPEEDER & EARL’S (CYBER CAFÉ) The Cyber Café was my long standing caffeine source my first years of college.

Aside from hazelnut, their flavored coffees are on the bland side, but they make an excellent full-bodied French roast. If you’re looking for the best caffeine kick on campus, a great option is the Speeder’s blend, which they call their “version of rocket fuel.”

Caffeine usually has little effect on me but two cups gave me jitters, so I don’t recommend going overboard. This is also the only location where you can be blessed with a “Thank you, have a good one!” after your order from the iconic barista Bev.

STARBUCKS (CAT PAUSE)

This coffee was so-so. It seemed overly bitter and not in the pleasant way that coffees often are. I wasn’t particularly fond of any of the roast flavors.

I like my coffee black, but this might taste a lot better doctored up with sugar and cream.

Overall it just came across as pretty basic coffee, which is fine if you’re looking for a quick caffeine fix.

VERMONT ARTISAN COFFEE & TEA COMPANY (HENDERSON’S) Henderson’s is my current favorite and my regular stop for daily coffee. The staff is super friendly and offer a few great specialty drinks, like Maple Madness.

I’m particularly fond of their medium roast Moka Java blend.

It’s fruity and bold, similar to rich dark chocolate. All of their coffees have excellent and complex flavors that are roasted to perfection, making this the place to get a gourmet cup of java.

Illustration by MARISSA LANOFF

VERMONT COFFEE ROASTERS (HOSPITAL) This coffee is hidden in the hospital past the Dana Medical Library. They have excellent bold coffee flavor with a simple bitterness and a distinct fresh-

ness to the brew. One of my coffee-obsessed friends declares this the best joe on campus with their large cup sizes and delicious roasts, but it remains unknown to most students because of its location.

I’ve never really been a big Starbucks fan. I’ve found their coffee to be extremely bitter. It leaves an unpleasant burnt aftertaste.

When there are so many excellent local Vermont roasters, I find it hard to justify getting coffee from here.

If you are a fan of the coffee this is a convenient place to get your Starbucks fix on campus.

Campus coffees hit some high notes and some low notes, but there are plenty of locations to get your caffeine fix this exam season.

To cut down on costs and reduce waste, take advantage of the cheaper price when you use your own mug for a refill.

Certain places also offer reward cards for free coffee after multiple purchases, like Henderson’s, Speeder & Earl’s or Green Mountain Coffee in the dining halls.

Christopher Leow is a junior medical laboratory science major.

He has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2015.

Facebook has created a tool that allows users to ignore their exes by cAMILLA BROCCOLO CBROCCOL@uvm.edu

Seeing your old flame on social media can be one of the worst aspects of a breakup, or as this generation calls it, the end of a “committed” hookup, whatever you want to call it, as long as no one caves in and calls it a “relationship.”

To solve this, Facebook has released a new feature that allows you to see less of your exes, without them ever knowing you turned the feature on.

Up until now, there was no easy or clear way to see less of

an ex on your newsfeed, unless you would unfriend or block him or her.

In some cases these measures could be unnecessary, especially if you decided to “stay friends.”

“When someone sets their relationship status to ‘single,’ they will be prompted by Facebook to try out the ‘take a break’ tool,” according to Forbes Magazine’s website.

Most students don’t know about this new feature and don’t think it is helpful when going through a breakup, like sophomore Mara Carini.

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“I think it’s a silly feature,” Carini said. “It’s said to aid someone during a rough coping period post-breakup, but what is untagging yourself from a picture with your ex going to do for you when you run into them on the streets or at a party?”

Sophomore Siobhan Murray agreed with Carini.

“I think it may be helpful for some people, but I think it’s a little over the top in terms of getting over your ex,” Murray said.

Sophomore Chad Leonard thinks the feature could be useful in some cases.

“I think it will be helpful for people going through breakups if they are still trying to stay on a friendly level with some minimal contact,” Leonard said.

He said he thinks Facebook is now a part of modern-day relationships.

“Facebook definitely has influences on people’s relationships,” Leonard said.

“Everyone is so concerned about their next profile picture with their spouse or showing off the things that they do together,” he said.

“It’s almost like they care more about what others think

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about the relationship instead of what is actually going on [in the relationship],” Leonard said.

Carini and Murray both agree Facebook shouldn’t be such a big part of a relationship.

“I think Facebook plays a funny role in relationships.,” Carini said.

“Just take the saying ‘Facebook official’, as if your relationship wasn’t official or real without Facebook’s publication.”

Carini believes that relationships are no one’s business but his or her own.

“I tend to avoid posting relationships on Facebook not only because I don’t think it’s necessary for everyone to know, but it just makes breakups into these monumental moments on your timeline, when in reality people change and move on. Shit happens,” she said.

Murray commented on the distinction between reality and the virtual world.

“Facebook has no influence over relationships,” she said. “I think they try and I think people fall into that trap but Facebook is the internet and this is real life … That’s just a fact.”

This feature is currently being tested with primarily mobile users, and as feedback is received, they will introduce it to all users, according to Forbes Magazine.

The ex tool is part of an “ongoing effort to develop resources for people who may be going through difficult moments in their lives,” according to Facebook’s newsroom.

This feature will be optional and can be found in the Facebook help center.

THE VERMONT CYNIC

LIFE

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 9, 2015

7

Evie's Outlook

Angsty teen upset by the medical community able to drag me from the party, into my own car and to the hospital where they kindly waited for the next six hours while I slept in a hospital bed.

During this time, my friends undressed me, I had several X-rays taken, new hospital clothes were put on, a cast was put on my leg and the doctor told me the results of the X-rays. A small knit sock was tied around my foot for warmth.

Eva Bartels

EBARTELS@UVM.EDU

T

he Friday night of Halloween weekend, I, like every other college student in America, set out looking for a party that would justify drunkenly roaming the streets of Burlington dressed as a slutty cat or a culturally-appropriative Native American.

I went in my own clothes only to be continually asked if I was dressed as Mac DeMarco, a self-described “jizz-jazz” singer/ songwriter.

Therefore it seems safe to assume that on any given weekend, I look like a 25-year-old male stoner.

Eventually embracing my DeMarco facade (which I assumed meant I could act like an asshole for the rest of the night without any repercussions), I continued on being led from one place to the next.

We eventually landed at a spot that was later described as “somewhere close to Trinity.”

It was the first time I had returned anywhere near that area of the city since I had fled from the campus as a naïve and terrified first-year.

From this point on, I spent my time wandering through the massive crowd, taking classic shots on my Amazon-bought polaroid like the artist I am and running into my old Trinity friends that I had not seen since I was caught deserting my room with packed bags.

The theme of the night was for me to be reminded of how

For whatever reason, every other girl at the party seemed to feel a sense of camaraderie toward the crying girl on the steps, and almost every one that passed by stopped to lean down and whisper "he's not worth it."

Illustration by EVA BARTELS

uncomfortable and awkward I was this time last year (thankfully, I was now fully grown into the Mac DeMarco impersonator I was meant to be).

To continue the success of the night, I decided to throw myself down the stairs of a stranger’s home and simultaneously fractured one ankle and sprained the other.

Unable to walk or truly understand what was going on, I sat on the steps I had just fallen

down silently (I hope) weeping as I sent my friends angry text messages to come help me and lecture them about how they should have dutifully been by my side the entire time.

Soon enough, my friend Jessa was beside me, patting my back, stroking my hair and whispering to me that nothing was probably wrong and my drunken state was making me feel vulnerable.

For whatever reason, every

other girl at the party seemed to feel a sense of camaraderie toward the crying girl on the steps, and almost every one that passed by stopped to lean down and whisper “he’s not worth it.”

The immediate assumption that any girl crying at a party must have been mistreated by a boy is relatively disheartening and obviously dangerous, considering I needed legitimate medical attention.

Thankfully, my friends were

I remembered none of this. I had to be told the next morning.

The aftermath of the night resulted in a six-week cast, two parking tickets and a dead car battery.

It also resulted in me angrily crutching around campus in a fit of fury over my own stupidity.

My confusion remains as to how the medical community hasn’t come up with a better alternative to the basic and inconvenient crutch.

Eva Bartels is a sophomore psychology major. She has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2015.

Your symptoms may be more than the ‘Winter Blues’

by MEGAN FAHEY MFAHEY@uvm.edu

As the winter months quickly approach, some students are bracing for the onset of seasonal affective disorder.

“SAD is a form of clinical depression, where people experience bouts of depression in the fall [and] winter months, and feel pretty great in the spring [and] summer months,” said Jennifer Mahon, a doctoral candidate working in the clinical psychology program at UVM. Ten percent of Vermonters experience SAD, Mahon said.

First-year Jess Figgie said she has never been diagnosed with SAD but experiences the symptoms come winter.

“February is the hardest month to get through,” Figgie said. “The weather seems to slow time.”

This type of depression is most common at colleges in the northeast and is most prevalent in women, according to a Nov. 13 USA Today article.

“Symptoms can include fatigue, weight and appetite changes, oversleeping, loss of interest in hobbies and social activities, difficulty concentrating and low mood,” according to psychology professor Kelly Rohan’s “Winter Blues” study.

As many as six out of 100 people in the United States may have SAD, according to the UVM Winter Blues site.

“People with SAD meet clinical criteria for a depressive episode, which means they experience depressed or down mood most of the day, everyday, for at least two weeks,” Mahon said.

Rohan is combating the issue by researching light therapy and cognitive behavior therapy, also known as talking therapy, as a form of treatment.

In her study, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry and later featured in the Washington Post, it is shown that although affected individuals see improvement when exposed to light of specific wavelengths through a light box, CBT is more effective for the long-term.

“It creates a kind of toolbox approach, in that the person has skills that they can draw from in the future to try to fortify themselves against relapse,” Rohan said.

LivingWell, located on the first floor of the Davis Center, focuses on the education and outreach for issues such as SAD. Although the light boxes mentioned in Rohan’s study are not available at LivingWell, the Mind-Body Wellness Program is

UVM professor of psychological science Kelly Rohan is currently investigating treatments for seasonal affective disorder. Rohan’s research on SAD treatment was published in the American Journal of Psychiatry and in the Washington Post. PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY MO QUIGG there to promote mental health.

“LivingWell’s yoga programs are just what I need if the weather or stress is getting me down,” first-year Catina Accardi said.

“This program offers opportunities to learn to become more

focused, relaxed, self-aware and self-compassionate. Free dropin meditation groups, gentle yoga groups and retreats are available throughout the academic year,” according to the website.

UVM Counseling and Psychiatry Services is the University’s main resource for mental health concerns.

CAPS counselors are available to help guide students through the winter months.

8

ARTS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015 THE VERMONT CYNIC

Nectar’s celebrates four decades anniversary show.

“When you talk about the bands in Burlington musical history that went beyond the state of Vermont, Smokin’ Grass comes up,” Mital said. “So they were definitely a considerable success.”

out in the music.”

Smokin’ Grass recommends coming out if you love to dance, since their music is danceable and upbeat.

They said dance parties are a common occurrence at shows.

“

We have a more diverse set of influences that’s coming out in the music.

ADAM FREHM MEMBER OF SMOKING’ GRASS

Nectar’s Bar and Lounge on Main Street is pictured Oct. 11. Nectar’s was bought by Nector Rorris in 1975 and has hosted bands like Phish and Grace Potter. OLIVER POMAZI/The Vermont Cynic BY isabelle schechter ischecht@uvm.edu

For the first time in 10 years, a UVM band is reuniting to “bring the magic” to a local music venue’s anniversary bluegrass showcase.

Burlington-based eclectic bluegrass band Smokin’ Grass will reunite to play their first show in 10 years to honor Nectar’s 40th anniversary Dec. 10.

“We want to celebrate the Burlington music scene – past, present and future,” said Nec-

tar’s Bar and Lounge manager Brian Mital.

Nectar’s music department collaborated with Phish archivist Kevin Shapiro to form a group of bands from the area that would help them reach their goal of representing older, contemporary and upcoming Burlington, Mital said.

While seeking out bands, Mital said he came across Smokin’ Grass, a band he had formed a relationship with and eventually became a part of during his ini-

Through the cold, local writers read their stories

BY Catie Owen cmowen@uvm.edu

Winter is coming, but despite the cold, local Burlington artists are celebrating.

The 11th annual showing of “Winter Tales” by the Vermont Stage theatre company will take place at the Flynn Dec. 9 - 13.

The show will include professional readings of stories and poems by local novelists and members of the Young Writers Project in Burlington as well as folk music by Patti Casey and Pete Southerland, director Cristina Alicea said.

“It has become a holiday tradition,” Alicea said. “A lot of people have been coming since the very first year.”

For newcomers like firstyear Jill Brooks, the show could become part of a new tradition.

“I’ve been looking for a way to get into the holiday spirit and unwind during exams,” Brooks said. “‘Winter Tales’ definitely seems like an event where I could do that.”

“What’s also part of the tradition is that we have had the same set for 11 years,” Alicea said. “It looks like a comfy, cozy holiday living room.”

She said this set includes a fireplace, couches and chairs.

There are usually four short stories, each told by a different actor, Alicea said.

“We also have a have a fifth

actor, who is usually a young person,” she said. “Someone that is in high school or early college that reads poems or prose written by middle and high school students in the region.”

“It has kind of the same format every year,” Alicea said.

“We have one song that starts us off that Patti Casey wrote specifically for ‘Winter Tales’ called ‘Into this Night.’”

“

tial years as manager.

He said he felt they were a perfect fit to celebrate Burlington’s musical history.

The band formed as they were finishing up their time at UVM and began playing shows in Burlington and surrounding areas, fueled by hard work and passion for live music, band member Adam Frehm said.

Eventually, they toured their way through over 30 states, one of the many reasons Mital said he invited them to play the 40th

Smokin’ Grass is “genre-bending,” a result of the diverse musical backgrounds of the individual members, according to Nectar’s website.

“Our process of forming was pretty organic; we did not have any specific intentions,” Frehm said. “We love the music we play; it’s the common ground of a lot of influences.”

Their influences include jam-bands, jazz, bluegrass, funk and rock, he said.

Nectar’s hosts bluegrass bands every Thursday night, according to their website.

Frehm said Dec. 10th won’t be a regular bluegrass night.

“It’s going be a little more eclectic than the typical bluegrass night at Nectar’s,” Frehm said. “We have a more diverse set of influences that’s coming

They have not played in 10 years and currently do not have any future shows booked, Frehm said.

However, the band spoke of the “moments of magic” that arise at shows – when all the different variables come together in perfect harmony.

“We live for those two or three hours a day when the sound is good, the people are into it and it’s a good turnout,” Frehm said.

“When all these things happen at once, it’s magic and the energy is incredible,” he said. “It feels like you’re something bigger than yourself.”

To celebrate past and present Burlington bands share these moments of magic with Smokin’ Grass 9:30 p.m. Dec. 10 at Nectar’s.

Aim high.

The dual-emphasis Ph.D. in Economics Developing research economists and college teachers

We have one song that starts us off that Patti Casey wrote specifically for ‘Winter Tales’ CRISTINA ALICEA DIRECTOR

Though they are always winter or holiday-themed, she said the content of the four stories changes year to year.

In the past, Alicea revealed that well-known local authors like Chris Bohjalian, Stephen Kiernan and Kathryn Blume have submitted pieces for “Winter Tales.”

“The most successful stories are funny,” she said. “They also remind us why we love this time of year.”

90% of graduates placed in tenure-track positions Jennifer Trudeau, Ph.D. 2014 Assistant Professor of Economics Sacred Heart University

paulcollege.unh.edu

603.862.1367

THE VERMONT CYNIC

ARTS

9

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 9, 2015

Vermont folk musician Anais Mitchell plays Signal Kitchen Dec. 5. Mitchell is currently on tour for her seventh album, “Xoa.” DAYNA WYCKOFF/The Vermont Cynic

Folk artist sells out at Signal Kitchen Maddy frietas

Anais Mitchell

MMFRIETA@UVM.EDU

O

n a rainy Wednesday night, Vermont’s own folk singer and songwriter played a sold-out show at Signal Kitchen.

Anais Mitchell is reminiscent of a modern-day Joni Mitchell, with a softer voice that’s inno-

cent like a child’s, but doesn’t escape the tone of someone who has seen a hardship or two.

The tranquil atmosphere of the night reflected the mood of the show. The crowd was casual yet engaged, and made up of dedicated fans.

The show was sold out, but there were no over-enthusiastic fans obnoxiously singing along.

Everyone was connected by their mutual admiration and respect for Mitchell.

Mitchell’s transitions were as clever and sincere as her lyrics, never feeling forced or fake. She took requests from the crowd and invited people to sing on stage with her, adding to the show’s uniqueness.

“She connected with the crowd very well,” first-year Caroline Sheehan said. “I knew I loved her music but I didn’t realize how funny she is.”

She made the crowd feel comfortable, and was clearly happy to be back in her home state.

Throughout the show, Mitchell said she felt as though she knew everyone in the crowd.

The setlist featured songs that she hasn’t recorded yet, as well

as songs from her newest album, “Xoa.” It was one of those rare shows where it didn’t matter if you recognized most of the songs or not, because each new lyric gave you shivers.

It was a powerful night.

You couldn’t help but be overwhelmed with sentiment.

Maddy Frietas is a firstyear environmental science major. She has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2015.

‘Spotlight’ displays hard journalism at its greatest Colin Kamphuis

Spotlight

CKAMPHUIS@UVM.EDU

T (Front to Back) Vermont Ballet Theater School dancers Allie Zouck, Katherine Lawton and Amy Katz rehearse for the troupe’s performance of “The Nutcracker.” PHOTO COURTESY OF KIRSTEN NAGIBA

Ballet takes a crack at a classic

BY Jensen WAinright jmwainwr@uvm.edu

‘The Nutcracker” will once again bring the world of classical ballet to Burlington.

The production, dubbed “Vermont’s Own Nutcracker,” will run Dec. 19 and 20 at the Flynn Center, where it has been held for the past seven years.

The ballet, which will be performed by dancers from the Vermont Ballet Theater School, is under the supervision of creative director Alexander Nagiba.

When the production began, the group only performed the second act of the show. However, once they had moved to the Memorial Auditorium and had more space, they expanded to playing the full ballet, Nagiba said.

“Then after three years at Memorial we moved to Flynn,” he said. “We’ve been at Flynn

for seven years now.”

The dancers in the production all train at the Vermont Ballet School in Essex and train for around 14 hours per week, Nagiba said.

His ballet education is extensive, including training at the Vaganova Ballet Academy in Russia, the American Ballet Theatre II and a stint as a soloist with the Pittsburgh Ballet, he said.

As the choreographer of the show, Nagiba said he likes to keep the moves fresh each year by adding new elements.

“I try to keep an open mind,” he said. “I always look at it as it can be better.”

The show also evolves a long with the dancers’ skill-level, Nagiba said.

“Even with the dancers, every year as they grow older, some of the roles change,” he

said. “If they mature more they can handle more roles.”

17-year-old Johana Vigoreaux said she has been in “The Nutcracker” for nine years. She has played many roles in the past, but this year she will play the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy.

“I’m really excited, but I’m also nervous,” Vigoreaux said.

“Obviously, since you’re like 4 years old, the Sugar Plum Fairy is who you want to be.”

Vigoreaux said she hopes to continue moving up in the company.

The Vermont Ballet Theater School dubs their production of “The Nutcracker” as “Vermont’s Own Nutcracker” because, “A lot of stuff we’ve done is local dancers,” Nagiba said, “[the] production is all local, [and the sets are] put together and built here.”

he new journalist-centric film “Spotlight” deftly handles the stomach-turning story of the Boston Globe’s uncovering of the Catholic Church’s protection of pedophile-priests.

The story focuses on the newspaper’s “Spotlight” team, America’s oldest continually operating investigative journalist team.

After a new editor puts pressure on the group to reopen old stories surrounding sexual abuse in the Catholic Church, disturbing revelations come to light.

While the revelations of sexual abuse are shocking, the reaction of the public is equally disturbing. Passive acceptance of the crimes by the city of Boston, the Irish-Catholic community and the church hierarchy add a sinister undertone to the otherwise beloved city.

The star-studded cast features Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams, Liev Schreiber and Stanley Tucci.

While no cast member offers a particularly groundbreaking performance, the sum result is a compelling drama without glorifying its subjects.

“Spotlight” has broken the trend of violent, crime-related Boston movies of the last decade.

Instead it is a dramatic movie

that honors its scenery without drowning in Boston clichés. Not all “r”s are dropped, the Red Sox are only mentioned in about a third of the scenes and Boston slang is kept to a minimum.

Famous Boston landmarks and events like the Big Dig are referenced, but those familiar with Boston will also recognize more obscure landmarks.

The most compelling facet of “Spotlight” is not its characters or its setting. The sinister plot is the most memorable component of the movie.

Thomas McCarthy has directed an indictment of the Catholic Church and the aggregate Boston community concerning a scandal Massachusetts would prefer to forget.

The remarkably close-knit city is criticized for its suspicion of outsiders and blind loyalty to the Church. Even the lead journalists are forced to confront their own failure to bring the Church corruption to light earlier.

In all, “Spotlight” offers a dramatic, thought provoking movie-going experience. One does not need to be a Bostonophile to appreciate this movie or its message on the dangers of group mentality and blind faith.

Colin Kamphuis is a junior English major. He has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2015.

10

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015 THE VERMONT CYNIC

‘Gut’ may go, but memories stay By john suozzo JSuozzo@uvm.edu

For the first time in over half a century, Vermont hockey may be finding a new home.

It is believed that a new arena may be coming to replace Gutterson Fieldhouse.

“Current plans call for a new multipurpose events center to be built on the west side of the PFG Athletic Complex,” Athletic Director Robert Corran stated in a Dec. 7 e-mail.

“The center would seat approximately 5,700 fans and would accommodate hockey, basketball and a variety of university events such as speakers, graduation ceremonies and concerts,” Corran wrote.

Currently, Gutterson can hold 4,007 fans, according to UVM athletics.

The timetable for the new events center depends on fundraising, as it is a part of UVM’s capital campaign, Corran stated.

“Gutterson has a great deal of character and is an exciting venue when hosting capacity crowds, but it is sorely lacking in athlete and spectator amenities,” Corran wrote. “For the athletes, the locker rooms, training rooms, video rooms, among

others are either cramped or nonexistent.”

Current estimates for the price of this new arena are in the range of $75 million, according to WPTZ. Gutterson Fieldhouse opened in 1963, the same year the men’s hockey program was founded, according to UVM athletics.

The arena has been home to the men’s program since its move from Division II to Division I in 1974.

Gutterson was also the site of the Catamounts’ first home game in the Hockey East Tournament in 2005, according to UVM athletics.

The fan base that packs Gutterson Arena is what makes the rink so special, senior defenseman and captain Yvan Pattyn said.

“The environment and energy in our building is incomparable,” Pattyn said. “It’s a great place to play, mostly because of our incredible fan base.”

For junior forward Tom Forgione, a Burlington native, playing home games at Gutterson Fieldhouse has a deeper meaning.

“Growing up in Vermont and going to UVM hockey games as

a kid, Gutterson will always be a special place for me,” Forgione said. “However, I am excited at the prospect of a new arena for future Catamounts to enjoy.”

Players reflected on memories of Gutterson.

“My favorite memory of Gutterson was last season during game three of the Hockey East playoffs against Maine. We went to overtime and Jon Turk scored the winner,” Pattyn said, referencing the Catamounts’ 3-2 win over the University of Maine in the opening round of the Hockey East playoffs.

“The sold-out crowd had never been louder and it’s a feeling I’ll never forget,” he said.

Forgione said his first home game as a Catamount is his best memory of the Gut, where Vermont beat No. 5 Notre Dame in what he said was “one of the craziest atmospheres I have seen at Gutterson.”

For Forgione, being a Burlington native has allowed him to have a special appreciation for Gutterson.

“Being from Burlington, Gutterson will always be my favorite place to play,” he said.

“With its unique mix of atmosphere and history it’s by far the best rink in college hockey.”

(Top) Gutterson Arena is pictured during a Catamount hockey game in 1964. PHOTO COURTESY OF UVM SPECIAL COLLECTION (Bottom) Gutterson Arena is pictured Nov. 7 2015. COLE WANGS-

NESS/ THE VERMONT CYNIC

History of the `Gut'

UVM moved from 1974 Division II to Division I

BUSCH LEAGUE BANTER

In daily fantasy, one should try dynamics Shane Town STOWN@ UVM.EDU

I

f you are thinking about entering the strategic battle of daily fantasy football and laying down some cash, it helps to be prepared.

The two biggest sites are FanDuel and DraftKings, and because of the larger prize pools and number of users that these sites offer, I would recommend either one of these two.

There are a variety of options to choose from, from smaller leagues to larger tournaments.

The first factor to consider is the number of people in the league.

For small leagues and headto-heads you should choose a lineup that seems safest.

In this situation, choose players whose stat-lines travel on a more even keel.

The rule of thumb for smaller leagues is to concentrate more on your team’s floor, the lowest score you can imagine them achieving, rather than its ceiling.

For larger leagues, the strategy shifts.

With more participants involved, you will need to have a higher score in order to make money.

With this in mind, you should look at inconsistent, deep threat wide receivers like Desean Jackson or Torrey Smith much more favorably in larger leagues than you would for a smaller league.

Another strategy for larger leagues is called “fading.”

If a player is owned by a large percentage of the league you are in, it’s best to avoid him because even if he pulls a strong performance, your position in the leaderboard will not improve.

Instead, find a promising outlier who could help you climb the ranks because nobody else picked him.

As reported by Bloomberg Business, much of the money on these websites is won by a “tiny elite equipped with elaborate statistical modeling,” so people are doing their homework.

Remember these tips, and who knows what could happen.

Shane Town is a senior English major and public communications minor. He has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2014.

1995- New York Rangers held pre2004 season training at Gutterson

2012 Barack Obama visited

Plans start for 2008 new arena

Aim high.

2015

New arena proposal 2014 released

The ten-month Master of Arts in Economics • Ranked by TFE Times as one of the top 40 programs in the country • Emphasis on applied research and quantitative skills • Ph.D. option • Scholarships & assistantships available

program gave me the analytical “The and quantitative skills I needed to participate in the policy debate at a high level.

“

1963

2005 First home game hosted in Hockey East

1980 West Germany Olympic Team practiced in Gutterson

1963 Gutterson built

- Alex Spitz M.A. ’14 Senior Research Analyst Federal Reserve System Board of Governors

paulcollege.unh.edu

603.862.1367

THE VERMONT CYNIC

SPORTS

11

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 9, 2015

PLAYER PROFILE

Bell-Haynes: from Canada, with love

by Ben hakim BHakim@uvm.edu

First-year Trae Bell-Haynes goes up for a layup in the Catamounts’ Nov. 7 exhibition game against St. Michael’s College. PHOTO COURTESY UVM ATHLETICS

Successful in Canada, Trae Bell-Haynes is now finding success against the best competition he’s faced in his life as he’s transitioned to U.S. Division I basketball.

Last year as a first-year student, Bell-Haynes was named to the America East All-Rookie Team.

He finished second in the entire league in assists, averaging four per game, according to the America East website.

In 2015, Bell-Haynes has continued his success and was awarded the America East Player of the Week Nov. 23, according to UVM athletics.

This season, the Catamounts are 4-5.

Bell-Haynes has continued his starting role.

He started 29 out of the team’s 34 games last season, and has started eight of the team’s nine games this season while leading the Cats in scoring, according to UVM athletics.

In high school, Bell-Haynes played for Bill Crothers Secondary School in Toronto.

During his senior year of high school, he was the team captain and led the team to a 36-6 record.

He was named MVP of the 2014 Prep Championships

Tournament and during that season, Bell-Haynes averaged 18.7 points per game and 7.6 assists per game for Bill Crothers Secondary School, according to UVM athletics.

Bell-Haynes’s successful career in Canada was impressive, but it has been even more impressive how quickly he has adjusted to the more competitive nature of American basketball, especially at a Division I school. “[Every player] in America has that realization that they can play Division I and then play pro,” Bell-Haynes said. “In Canada that realization doesn’t come for everybody.”

Through both his words and actions, he has shown an understanding and appreciation for the higher-level of gameplay.

“Everybody you play against, everyone’s stronger,” Bell-Haynes said. “Just in general, guys are faster than they were in high school. Gradually I just started to notice how the game is a bit harder, it’s a bit more difficult.”

Bell-Haynes is dealing with two different transitions: the higher-stakes nature of American basketball and the high level of competition that comes with Division I basketball.

Bell-Haynes said he realizes the increased difficulty comes with playing at a higher level and embraces the challenge.

This season, Bell-Haynes has averaged a team-leading 13 points per game while averaging the most minutes on the entire roster, according to UVM athletics.

Bell-Haynes said two of his goals going into this season were to play smarter and to become more confident in his shooting ability.

Bell-Haynes admitted that last season, he was often not confident in his jump shot.

Once he started taking smart and open shots, he was able to score a lot more.

His scoring average this season is up to 13 points per game after averaging just 8.8 per game last year.

A good point guard needs to do whatever they can to help the team win, Bell-Haynes said.

As such, he said he dislikes being categorized as a shooting or passing point guard.

Instead, Bell-Haynes said he wants to play in whatever way is best for his team.

The Catamounts are a more mature team this season, with higher standards and accountability, Bell-Haynes said.

He also said there has been improvement in rebounding between the two seasons.

Bell-Haynes said that he is eager to have a better season than the last.

scoreboard

Visit vtcynic.com for more coverage and uvmathletics.com for schedules and tickets

LAST WEEK L 77-63 Women’s basketball at Holy Cross Worcester, MA Dec. 2 L 5-1 Women’s hockey vs Northeastern HOME Dec. 4 W 4-2 Men’s hockey at Boston University Boston, MA Dec. 4 L 72-54 Men’s basketball at Yale New Haven, CT Dec. 5 L 53-51 Women’s basketball vs Sacred Heart HOME Dec. 6

Catamount junior forward Bridget Baker takes on Northeastern forward Halle Silva. DAYNA WYCKOFF/ THE VERMONT CYNIC

Women’s hockey bitten by the Huskies By locria courtright Ccourti@uvm.edu

The No. 7 ranked Northeastern Huskies came from behind Dec. 5 to edge the Catamounts 2-1 at Gutterson Fieldhouse.

Catamount women’s hockey tallied a loss Saturday, as Northeastern senior forward Kendall Coyne scored her 114th career goal, the most goals in Northeastern women’s hockey history according to UVM athletics.

Coyne’s goal tied the score 1-1 and the No. 7 Huskies would go on to hold off the Catamounts in a comeback victory.

The first period was evenly matched.

Both sides finished the period with 12 shots, and each finished with five on the power play, where both teams saw their best chances of the period.

Both Catamount junior goalkeeper Madison Litchfield and Northeastern goalkeeper

Sarah Foss stopped every shot and the game remained scoreless at the end of the first period.

The Catamounts struck first, midway through the second period when Northeastern turned the puck over in their own zone.

Junior Casey Leveillee put a wrist shot over Foss’s right pad to put the Catamounts up 1-0.

The goal was Leveillee’s first goal and point of the season, according to UVM athletics.

Northeastern controlled the puck for the remainder of the second period, and kept that momentum going in the third when they found their equalizer.

With her teammate Heather Mottau in the box serving a minor penalty for tripping, Coyne broke free on a breakaway.

Coyne beat Litchfield and leveled the score, earning her record 114th goal in the process.

The goal, which set a Northeastern program record, was

her 23rd of the season, and moved her up to the No. 1 goal scorer in women’s college hockey, according to the Hockey East Association’s website.

Just two minutes later, Northeastern took the lead.

Northeastern sophomore forward McKenna Brand scored her third goal of the season off the crossbar and past Litchfield, giving the Huskies a lead they held on to for the rest of the game.

However, the Cats did not go down quietly, despite losing sophomore forward Kourtney Menches to an interference call with 2:04 to go.

Catamount junior forward Victoria Andreakos was denied on a late shorthanded breakaway by Foss.

With the loss, UVM falls to 3-15-0 on the season and 3-6-0 in Hockey East play, according to UVM athletics.

THIS WEEK Men’s basketball at SBU St. Bonaventure, NY Dec. 8

7 p.m.

Women’s basketball at Dartmouth Hanover, NH Dec. 9 noon Men’s hockey vs St. Lawrence HOME Dec. 11 7:05 p.m.

Women’s hockey at Dartmouth Hanover, NH Dec. 12 4 p.m.

Men’s hockey at St. Lawrence Canton, NY Dec. 12 • • • • • •

7 p.m.

Track and field junior Mallory Honan was named the TD Bank Student-Athlete of the Week.

The Vermont men’s and women’s track and field team swept Hartford on Dec. 6 to open up the 2015-2016 indoor season.

In his seven games played so far this season, UVM basketball’s Ernie Duncan has made 50 percent of his three-point shots.

Men’s basketball sophomore guard Cam Ward scored a career high 20 points against Yale Dec. 5.

“Star Wars Night” will take place at Gutterson Fieldhouse for the men’s hockey game against St. Lawrence Dec. 11.

The UVM men’s basketball team finished up a three-game road trip Dec. 8.

RECORDS

Men’s Basketball 4-5 Women’s Basketball 2-6 Men’s Hockey 4-10-2

Women’s Hockey 3-15 Women’s Swim 5-2

12

W E D N E S DAY, D E C E M B E R 9, 2 015

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