Vermont Cynic Spring 2015 issue 17

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Wil In LIFE: Haygood Page 3

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Another winless weekend After two losses to BU, Cats continue to fall in national rankings Shane Town Prior to their game against Providence College Dec. 29, the men’s hockey team was ranked ninth in the nation. The Cats fell to the Friars 3-0, and since the loss have captured one win over their last six games. Before the loss to Providence in December, the Cats were riding a seven game winning streak East standings. Currently,

Vermont

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No. 15 in the national standings after two tough losses versus No. 3 Boston University. “It’s tough to be on a losing skid right now,” Head Coach Kevin Sneddon said. “But I think adversity knowing that in the long run it’s going to strengthen us.” While Sneddon remains positive, UVM has a tough schedule ahead. The Cats’ next game is an non-conference match versus Penn State at the Wells Fargo Center Jan. 31. The Cats will

Hockey East series against the University of New Hampshire, No. 14 Boston College, No. 19 Merrimack College and No. 10 UMass-Lowell. Despite the recent losses, Sneddon said if they play as they did against BU for the rest of the season they will “win a lot of hockey games.” “We’ll turn the tide,” Sneddon said. “There are too many good hockey players and characters in that room for us not to.” man starting in goal for the Cats. Three straight Terrier goals man and replacing him with sophomore Mike Santaguida. Despite a late surge by UVM the nation’s point leader and top year Jack Eichel, added to the Terrier’s lead after an empty-net goal leaving BU with a 4-2 win. Game two started with an man would not be dressing due to a suspension for “violating team values and expectations,” Sneddon said. Santaguida got the start instead, and ended the game with 34 saves.

IJ IDRIZAJ The Vermont Cynic

Both sides had their share of scoring opportunities. The game was sent to overtime where Eichel scored the game-winner with two minutes left to play, giving BU a 2-1 win. Five out of the Cats’ last six goals have come on the power-

play. “We’ve been snake-bitten a little bit with putting the puck in the back of the net,” Sneddon said. In their last seven games, the Cats have been outscored 22-8. “As of late I feel the team

hasn’t been scoring enough, but we have been in each game and that’s good to see,” sophomore Shane Hickey said. “We will be a real contender in both Hockey East and the NCAA tournament if we get in.”

Students campaign for council election Sarah Olsen Assistant News Editor Margaux Rioux Two UVM students are running to represent Burlington city council. Senior Carmen Scoles was nominated to represent the East District of Burlington Jan. 11. Scoles, the Democratic candidate, is running against UVM assistant library professor, Selene Colburn to represent the voting district, or Ward. The East District includes both Wards 1 and 8, which are predominantly inhabited by UVM students, in addition to non-students. “We’re such a big population of Burlington, like 10,000 students, it kind of makes sense that we should have some say in city council,” sophomore Abby Holmquist said. “I think it’s great that students will have some representation now.” “The East District is approximately 70 percent on-campus students, and they lation in the ward as well,” said Kesha Ram, a 2008 alumna and state representative serving Burlington’s Hill Section. The new East District was created on the March 3 election. The ward aims to strengthen the relationship between students and nonstudents and have both parties’ concerns heard, Ram said. “Students are an important part of our city’s cultural and economic fabric.

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Gibian is from Ithaca, New York. “It’s a city very similar to Burlington in that they are both academically and environmentally focused,” Gibian said. He was a member of student council at his high school for all four years and served as vice president his last two years, he said. “There are a lot of lessons and experiences I learned in Ithaca that I felt like I could bring to Burlington,” Gibian said. “I wanted to go somewhere where I felt comfortable, and Burlington was that place.” Gibian is currently pursuing a dual degree in economics and mathematics. “I originally started out as a business major, but I didn’t see the business major having sustainability or the environment in any sort of factor,” Gibian said. He served as vice president of stanNATALIE WILLIAMS The Vermont Cynic

WALKER SULTZBACH The Vermont Cynic

Scoles, who was nominated for the position by Ram, started seeing a relationship between community service and public service when she arrived at

talk about the government and the things they dislike about it. She wants to move from this state of inaction, and implement the changes people want to see. With the new position and the new place in her life, Scoles said she has the

year. “I believe that representing a ward is the highest form of serving your community, and I love this community; I have the time, I have the energy and I have the support,” Scoles said. She said people, including herself,

“The new place that I’m at [in life] is going to be helpful and vital in the combination of these two wards coming together as one district,” Scoles said. Junior Brock Gibian is running for the new Ward 8 city council position in the March 3 election.

The more engaged they are, the more likely that they will have a voice in the is-

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to May 2014 on the UVM Interfraternity Council, he said. He also served as an SGA senator on the Finance Committee. “I consider politics to really be civic engagement,” Gibian said. “I don’t consider myself running for a political position. I consider myself running for a public service position.” Gibian’s only opponent is UVM alumni Adam Roof, class of 2011, Gibian said. Roof was a member of the men’s ice hockey club team while at UVM, according to the ice hockey club team website. “I realized that there is a true communication breakdown [between] students and the city,” Gibian said.

See ELECTION on page 2

Wa t c h C y n i c V i d e o

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2015

CRIME LOG Jan. 14 7:32 p.m. UVM police services received a report of a burglary Hall. Police found an unlocked window with the screen on the ground. An Xbox and video games were stolen from the dorm room. No suspects have been named.

8:59 p.m. Students in Converse Hall reported suspicions that a student in the hall was in possession of weapons. the student, they found the student had a walking cane with a taser on the end, which violates university policy. No weapons or replicas of weapons are permitted inside student residence halls, according to the policy. weapon, and will remain in custody of the taser for as long as the student is on campus.

Jan. 16 11:13 a.m. A screen had been removed a student’s dorm room. Nothing had been taken from the room, and nobody appears to have entered into the room.

Jan. 17 2:33 a.m. Two 911 hang-up calls were made from a hallway telephone Heights North. phone was hanging from the booth, and nobody in distress could be found in the area.

RENA MEISLER The Vermont Cynic

Service praised by foundation Taylor Delahanty UVM has just received The Community Engagement CerFoundation. institutionalized local, national and global commitment to community engagement through reciprocal partnerships that benat the university,” according to the Jan. 14 press release. “We’re very pleased to have received this important and prestigious designation,” President Tom Sullivan according to the press release. “As a land-grant research in-

stitution, we are committed to our mission of public service.” “It makes sense that UVM would get this award and it shows how much they care about engagement learning,” senior Owen Parr said. UVM has a big focus on university and community partnerships as well as service learning. In academic service learning, “students work with community partners within credit-bearing courses, so that students apply the skills of their disciplines to real-world problems to both deepen their learning and bennity-University Partnerships & Service Learning website. The Carnegie Community

launched in 2006, and in that UVM. The University was one of only 76 schools to receive both academic engagement and comtions. “Not only is UVM providing its students with a great education, but they’re also sending out citizens who understand and appreciate the importance that comes from being an active and compassionate member within the larger community,” junior Lizzie Leonard said. The Carnegie Foundation has now combined the two awards, and the University was given one this year. The foundation does not rely on public national data, but

SGA updates Sarah Olsen Assistant News Editor

OLIVER POMAZI The Vermont Cynic

Pipe burst prompts warnings Jill Vaglica Students may have noticed “asbestos” warning signs around the Hills building. There are obvious signs of construction in addition to the signs. Caution tape and plastic sheeting could be seen near the signs in Hills building. The construction area is not been passing through like usual. Plant assured the UVM commu-

nity that it’s nothing to worry about. Sophomore Michaela Paul is uneasy about the signs. “It is concerning, because it [asbestos] is a health hazard,” Paul said. She hopes that the issue will be resolved soon to protect studanger, she said. “A pipe burst in the building over break, and repairs are from the Physical Plant said. Junior Jamie Gates said he’ll be sure to scope out the Hills

building in the near future. “Asbestos sucks, it should not even be a problem. They years ago,” he said. Sophomore Meghan Carlyle said that she’s noticed the signs. “It kind of freaked me out a little bit,” she said. “It’s something that the University should take care of, and I trust that they will,” sophomore Jackson Batchelder said. The signs have been removed as of Jan. 26.

lic forum at the Jan. 20 Student Government Association senate meeting, beginning with senior Carmen Scoles and junior Brock Gibian. Scoles and Gibian are running for the Burlington city council after both recently won Democratic backing, Scoles said. Scoles is running for the East District position, which combines Ward 1 and Ward 8. Gibian is running for the Ward 8 position. The election for city council is March 3, during Spring Break. Scoles and Gibian discussed during public forum how they have been trying to get students to register for absentee ballots due to the calenThe South Burlington Blood Drive Team was also listed under public forum in the agenda, but didn’t make an appearance. There was no new business, old business or urgent business listed on the agenda or discussed during the meeting.

rather “institutions participate voluntarily by submitting materials describing the nature and extent of their engagement with their communities,” according to the press release. Susan Munkres, the director of UVM’s Community-University Partnerships & Service Learncess and had some things to say about the importance of the University’s practices, according to the press release. Munkres named a few other things that were important to “the integration of strong service learning courses into a wide range of departments and UVM students’ commitment to service.”

ELECTION Students to run for city council “I think that student repsaid. There are many issues he said he cares about, but that is what really made him want to run for the position. “I felt like I could actually change something,” Gibian said. “I felt like this isn’t federal politics where it’s gridlocked; this is local politics where I can change something and someone can actually feel that change,” he said. The March 3 election is during UVM’s Spring Break, according to the UVM academic calendar. Students will be able to get a lot, he said. “The situation that I’m in I’m going to take advantage of it and get out the vote,” Gibian said. Scoles and Gibian have been going to various club meetings and trying to get the word out about registering to vote and getting an absentee ballot, Gibian said.


Life

Novelist hails Dr. King Jackie Morris UVM welcomed Miami University alumni, novelist and reporter for The Washington Post, Wil Haygood Jan. 21. Haygood was this year’s keynote speaker for UVM’s Martin Luther King Jr. celebrations. “His speech was funny, riveting and moving all together,” sophomore Chloe

Danahy said. Haygood is the New York Times best-selling author of “The Butler: A Witness to History.” He was also the associate producer of the award-winning motion picture “The of his novel, according to the American Program Bureau website. Haygood said he got the idea for “The Butler” while following the 2008 presi-

dential campaign trail. one from the pre-segregation era to see how the [potential] election of an African-American would affect them,” he said. “I was looking for a gardener from the White House, or a dishwasher or even a butler from that time period.” Haygood said he convinced his editor at The Washington Post to give him and write a feature story. After various phone calls and questioning, Haygood said he managed to get a tip about a former White House butler, Eugene Allen. “Martin Luther King once said, ‘If a man is called a [dishwasher], he should be the best [dishwasher] that he can possibly be,’ and I got to meet that very dishwasher from Scottsville, Virginia,” Haygood said. Sophomore Elizabeth Rummel said she found Allen’s story to be “ unique, extremely powerful … espeGrowing up during a time of Southern segregation, Allen worked as a dishwasher, then at a Washington, D.C. country club, Haygood said. By the early 1950s, Allen landed a job at the White House as a pantry worker and was eventually promoted to the position of butler. Allen worked with eight U.S. presidents, beginning with President Harry S. Truman.

Health Corner

A superbowl of chili •

Allison Carey The Super Bowl is almost with calorie-rich chips, dip and hopefully chili. Try this delicious Turkey and Bean Chili recipe from Cooking Light magazine. Ingredients • 1 cup pre-chopped red onion • 1/3 cup chopped seeded poblano pepper (about 1) • 1 teaspoon bottled minced garlic • 1 1/4 pounds ground turkey • 1 tablespoon chili powder • 2 tablespoons tomato paste • 2 teaspoons dried oregano • 1 teaspoon ground cumin • 1/4 teaspoon salt

• • • • •

1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 (19-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained 1 (14-ounce) can fatfree, lower-sodium chicken broth 1/2 cup chopped fresh ciantro 6 lime wedges

Preparation Heat a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion, poblano pepper, garlic and turkey; cook for 6 minutes or until the turkey is done, stirring frequently to crumble the ingredients. Stir in chili powder, tomato paste, oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, cannellini beans, tomatoes and broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Before Allen’s death in 2010, he was invited to President Barack Obama’s inauguration where he told Haygood, “When I worked in the White House, you didn’t even dream that you could have a dream like this.”

poverty, according to the American Program Bureau website. Haygood is currently working on a new book to be released in the fall of 2015 called “Showdown,” according to the website.

of his family to attend col-

VT gas prices on the high end Eileen Parks

Declining gas prices may be giving drivers around the country a reason to celebrate, but Vermont seems to be a bit behind. Average gas prices in Vermont are the sixth highest in the U.S., with a current average of $2.385 per gallon, according to GasBuddy.com. In contrast, the American Automobile Association’s national average is $2.038 per gallon.

But UVM students aren’t complaining. “The gas prices are wonderfully low,” senior Sienna Searles said. UVM students, faculty and dents hitting the slopes this season. “I drive a lot locally for my job and the lower gas prices save money,” senior Emma Flaherty said. While gas prices in Burlington may be higher than in other places, they are still much lower than they were.

In 2008, the highest price recorded was $4.12 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. com. Gas costs on average $1.11 less per gallon than last year, according to the website. “Our 2015 gas price forecast reveals a yearly national average far lower than what we saw [in 2014],” said GasBuddy’s senior petroleum analyst, Patrick DeHaan. GasBuddy predicts that prices could fall below $2 per gallon this year, according to a recent email from the company.

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Allison Carey is a senior English major. She has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2014.

VICTORIA CASSAR The Vermont Cynic Left: Wil Haygood, author of “The Butler: A Witness to History”, gives a speech. Top: Speech attendees listen to Haygood speak Jan. 20 in Ira Allen Chapel. Above: Rev. Leroy Dixon and Barbara Criss perform.

Develop your writing skills

Meetings every Wednesday, Waterman 427 At 7:30 p.m.

PHOTOGRAPHY. WRITING. EDITING. WEB DESIGN. ILLUSTRATION.


Li fe

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2015

Emilee Conroe

A songwriter, literary theorist and UVM graduate with a 4.2 out of 5 on ratemyprofessors.com, English lecturer Sean Witters shared his thoughts on music, professorship and lobster thermidor. Vermont Cynic: When did you know you wanted to be an English professor? Sean Witters: Probably my sophomore year in college. I realized that I was taking a lot of English classes and beginning to feel a deep connection to it. VC: What is your favorite part of the job? SW: Working with students. VC: If you could be anything other than a university professor, what would you be? SW: A novelist, but I realized I’m not a novelist. My mind doesn’t work the way theirs do. I would either want to be participating in important social change or be in a highly successful and lucrative art rock band. VC: If you could be any musical instrument, what would you be? SW: I would want to be an

instrument that could generate sound on its own that involves chaos. I guess that’s why I like the guitar. Maybe I would be a 1960s Jazzmaster that had been played for a very long time. VC: How has the study of theory and literature impacted the way you look at life? SW: Literary theory particularly has changed how I think about the very phenomenon of knowledge. Seeing language in a way that is fresh and strange, as a way of recovering perception, recovering consciousness, that’s important to me. It’s changed how I think about the individual and the human subject.

We should bring the Dairy Bar back. Sean Witters UVM Lecturer

4

VC: How has UVM changed since you were here? SW: I miss the Dairy Bar. The Davis Center is now on top of it, but it was a student run place where they served ice cream and sandwiches and the milk came from UVM’s own farm. We should bring the Dairy Bar back. VC: Is there a particular food everyone should try? SW: Lobster thermidor aux crevettes served in the Provençale manner with shallots and aubergines, brandy and a fried egg and spam. VC: What are you most proud of? SW: Aside from my children and family, professionally I’m most proud of the fact that I won the KroepschMaurice Award because it comes from nominations by my students and peers. VC: What are you currently working on? SW: I’m writing an essay for a collection my friend in Germany is putting together on literary American writers and the marketplace.

VC: If you had to choose

English what would it be? SW: I think I’d want to speak Japanese for no particular reason other than that I want to go to Japan.

Where do you want to go? Applying is now faster and more personal.

VC: What’s better for writing: a typewriter or tablet? SW: Microsoft word, on a computer, full screen mode.

So Psyched

Tricks and tips for your psych game Marissa Lanoff

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FREDDY MORIN The Vermont Cynic

Dr. Sean Witters speaks about his work and life Jan. 23 in the John F. Dewey Lounge in Old Mill Hall. Outside of the classroom, Witters fronts the Burlington-based art rock band named Invisible Homes.

It’s the beginning of the semester, and you’re looking for it to go well. Lucky for you, psychology could hold the key to your social success, and this is the perfect time to try out these life tips. Results may vary. FOOT LANGUAGE The way a person’s feet are facing can say a lot about how into the conversation they are. For example, if one foot is facing towards you, but the other is facing towards the door, they may be trying to make an exit. The feet directly show what the person is focused on in that moment, according to lifebuzz.com. “I think people say a lot of things and they are not as perceptive of their own actions as they think they are, but their body language will always say more than they Wilson said.

FOR THE THRILL OF IT If you’re looking to spice them somewhere that will get their heart beating with adrenaline. It could be anything from a scary movie to rock climbing. In a tricky and slightly deceitful way, the false attribution of arousal makes the other person think that you are the cause of their good time, rather than the exciting activity. THE NAME GAME One of the simplest things you can do to improve your friendship with someone is to use their name in conversation. People love to hear their name, and it helps solidify trust within the relationships. By adding in the other person’s name at the end of a sentence, you are showing that you are entirely focused on that person and the interaction you are having. “Saying someone’s name when you are talking to them shows them that you are di-year Ellen Atkinson said. “Eye contact is also important.”

STRICTLY BUSINESS Have you ever gotten what you wanted by asking for something smaller and The “foot-in-the-door” phenomenon can help make the transition from a small favor to what you’re really looking for. Alternatively, with the “door-in-the-face” technique you can go in the exact opposite route and ask for something completely ridiculous, making what you really want look easy and simple in comparison. At the end of the day, you should just try being a good person in order to get what you want, but there is no harm in trying these life tips alongside that. Like Maya Angelou, the famous African-American poet and award winning author, once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Psychology major. She has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2014.


ARTS

Where in the world is Jenke Arts Assistant Arts Editor Many local artists once had a place to create and thrive. But that space seems to have disappeared. Last October, the space in 19 Church St. ceased to be known as Jenke Arts. However, it has become something new. In 2011, Tommy Alexander came up with Jenke Arts, an artist’s collective to support and give back to Burlington’s creativetypes. Matt Mantone became involved with the project and the two leased a space on Church Street. They renovated it to be a recording studio and eventually a dance studio. “It just started as an idea,” Alexander said. “Then throughout the couple years.” Jenke Arts existed for about two years, mostly helping musicians record albums for little to no charge many artists. However, Alexander knew he didn’t plan to stay in Burlington and left this

fall for Oregon to focus on his music. “I built [Jenke Arts] knowing that I might not necessarily always be there to enjoy it,” he said. Alexander hoped the community would continue to use the space. “It’s a good lesson - just doing something because it’s awesome, not because you expect anything in return,” Alexander said. Now, the space is run by Mantone, who renamed it Swan Dojo. “Tommy and I sort of completed as far as we were going to go together,” Mantone said. “Since then we’ve made a lot of changes to this space.” Mantone has added different features to the space such as more space for theater acts. He said he has plans to install theater lighting, stained glass windows and water features. Swan Dojo is a place for movement. “The idea expanded from just recording studio to community center,” Mantone said. In Burlington winters, Swan Dojo is “a place thats full of intentional positiv-

OLIVER POMAZI The Vermont Cynic

Swan Dojo production manager Jennifer Giammanco is pictured Jan. 25 in Swan Dojo on Church St. Formerly known as Jenke Arts, the studio name was changed about three months ago to the Swan Dojo. ity,” Mantone said. Swan Dojo isn’t very well known though. “It’s been building its momentum waiting for that perfect moment to emerge,” Mantone said.

Alexander said Jenke is still alive as a community in Burlington and at the Friendly Gathering music festival where Jenke runs a stage.

Alexander said he has “dreams to be able to really tive grow ... I really want to be able to help Vermont artists.”

Arts review: Wild Child Cara Zhuang

Since their 2011 debut, this indie-folk-pop group has been enchanting audiences with their upbeat energy and unique mixture of sounds. Wild Child played a soldout show at Higher Ground Jan. 23 as a part of their 2015 winter tour. Lead vocalists and Texas natives Kelsey Wilson and Alexander Beggins met in 2009 while touring with another band, The Migrant. Since the release of their independent debut album “Pillow Talk” in 2011, the band has experienced a whirlwind of success. They were named Best Folk Act and Best Indie Band at the 2013 Austin Music Awards and have performed at big-name music festivals such as South Texas. “I couldn’t stop smiling,” sophomore Vanessa Calu said. “Their music just makes me so happy.” The crowd erupted as the quirky clan stepped onto the stage. The members dressed casually and wore tribal-esque streaks of green marker on their faces. They played in the Showcase lounge, which fostered an intimate atmosphere between the performers and

PHOTO COURTESY OF LISA BARKER

Alumna Sarah Rutherford poses within an installation at her most recent show “Nesting” at 1975 Gallery in Rochester, New York.

Painting the walls Rafael Santos Cynic Correspondant

ERIN LUCEY The Vermont Cynic

Musician Sadie Wolfe of the indie-pop band Wild Child plays the electric cello during their performance Jan. 23 at Higher Ground. the audience. “Make some motherfucking noise!” Beggins and Wilson yelled as they kicked Their songs varied from heavy-rhythmed rustic dance anthems to melodic and sentimental ballads. The audience would respond accordingly, danc-

ing energetically to upbeat songs like “The Runaround” and swaying quietly to softer ballads like “Bridges Burning.” The show was full of charming surprises, like a funky number accompanied by an impromptu striptease by Beggins and songs from an upcoming album to be

The Living/Learning area was revamped with a new mural that features shades of blues and an array of feathers. Alumna Sarah Rutherford, an artist based out of New York, painted the mural. “I think it’s an upgrade from the old [mural],” junior Alex Perkins said. “It makes that whole area look nicer, [there are] too many brick and concrete spots [on campus] where there could be student art.” Rutherford said she got her start “by working as a waitress in New York City and sometimes would draw on their chalkboard.” Noticed for her chalk drawings, Rutherford was hired to illustrate a cookbook. “It did really well and

soon enough I got a call from Esquire magazine” she said. Rutherford has made murals for art shows, carnivals and music festivals such as The Hudson Project and Bonnaroo. nitely not the right decision for everybody,” Rutherford said. “You need to do everything and anything if you want to succeed.” Junior Elizabeth Callahan said she liked the old mural but “people can connect to [this painting] in their own way” “Diversity and independence are things that I have gotten from this painting,” Callahan said. “You have to put yourself in an uncomfortable position in this business,” Rutherford said. “That way you can learn how to develop your own artistic voice.”


6

A RTS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2015

Paper Diamond swings back to Burly Festival sounds and vibes have been promised at Higher Ground this Feb 4. Alex Botwin started his third tour as Paper Daimond this week. “The production we’re bringing and the sound ... it feels crazy,” Botwin said. Only four years after re-

“improvised every night” Botwin said. On top of that, Botwin plays works-in-progress at shows. “I want to know how people are going to react to it,” he said. Botwin said what keeps his music fresh and exciting is that, “I’m just searching for that sound [and] I just want to share that with people.” Botwin said he is excited to come back to Burlington,

Paper Diamond, Botwin has become a big name at music festivals, bringing new sounds to each show.

tattoo ever, [he] got in Burlington.” Apparently this is a ritual for Botwin. “I’ve been collecting tat-

Assistant Arts Editor

The production we’re bringing and the sound ... it feels crazy.

Alex Botwin

Botwin has been a musician almost all his life. “I started playing music when I was 4,” he said.“I played violin [and later] keyboard, bass, and drums

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAPER DIAMOND

Alex Botwin, an electronic music producer from Colorado better known as Paper Diamond, is pictured. His current 2015 tour is his third tour under the stage name Paper Diamond. Over the years he has performed his upbeat party music at summer festivals like Coachella, Lollapalooza and Bonnaroo. when I was 12.” He hasn’t always been a solo musician, however. Many might know Botwin from the Pnuma Trio, a band he was in before focusing on Paper Diamond. Botwin said “nothing’s

really changed...I’m just not playing with other musicians.” For Botwin, “the music secondary,” he said. There isn’t a single moment when he isn’t thinking about mu-

sic. “I turn on music when I [to] get inspired,” Botwin said. Fans can expect each from the last. The show is

tour spots,” he said. Burlington fans are in for “a crazy night,” Botwin said. “I’ve got a ton of new music ... it’s a culmination of a years long work.” However, “it’s not all about ‘turning up’,” Botwin said. He recently launched a website called raingang.com. “I haven’t really used my voice as Paper Diamond [yet],” Botwin said. The website is meant to be a place to share the more serious “messages and ideas and concepts,” he said. Botwin hopes his shows and the new “raingang” will inspire others. “Music has the power to make change,” he said.

Band plays with ‘Faya’ Sarah Stickle

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MACHINE

Members of the Pink Floyd cover band The Machine perform. The group has been playing shows in Vermont since the early 1990’s.

The Machine rocks out Katie Lazarus

A cover band with world tour experience is returning to Vermont. The Machine is set to play music for “one of our most highly anticipated crowds,” said Tahrah Cohen, drummer in the group. “The Machine was the only Pink Floyd cover band around, really, and because we were so good we quickly became very popular,” Cohen said. The group began coming to Vermont in the early ‘90s, and has been playing at Higher Ground for a number of years. The Machine “loves Vermont — it’s gorgeous and the people are amazing, cool, and energetic.” Cohen said. “The crowd is really on your side,” The other members in-

and vocals, Scott Chasolen on keyboard and vocals, and Ryan Ball on guitar and vocals. Cohen is the only founding member who is still in the band. Their style is a “jam-y kind of Pink Floyd band, like the original, and very improvisational,” Cohen said. The members all write their own music on the side and are involved in other bands. Ball is a recording studio engineer, Chasolen has his own band with original muare also involved with other bands. “Music isn’t a hobby, it’s what we all do,” Cohen said. “Each performance is change band members every so often, the music is always evolving,” Cohen said. The band always makes a point to play a myriad of songs.

Cee Lo Green has called Joe Driscoll “the gangsta with an iron lung.” Sekou Kouyate has been hailed as the Jimi Hendrix of the kora, a West African harp. Together, these musicians have travelled the world for the last two years creating what Driscoll calls “West African music meeting the reggae and hip-hop of New York.” Joe Driscoll and Sekou Kouyate will perform at ArtsRiot with Barika Jan. 30. As the tour heads to Vermont next week, Driscoll said they’re excited to be visiting the home of their label, Cumbancha, which is based in Charlotte, Vermont. For two people who tour the world together and don’t speak the same language, becoming friends was surprisingly easy, Driscoll said. Driscoll even cites the cial to the duo’s songwriting process. “Sometimes there’s a tendency in music to overdiscuss, and that really isn’t an option here. We kept it simple, and that’s actually been a great, refreshing advantage,” Driscoll said. In the end, it all comes back to the music. “We’re both hugely passionate about the same

PHOTO COURTESY OF RENE SCHONENBURG Sekou Kouyate (left) and Joe Driscoll are pictured above. The duo describes their sound as a fusion of West African music, reggae and New York hip-hop. They will be headlining a performance at ArtsRiot! Jan. 30.

kinds of music: Bob Marley, Damien Marley, Nas. We share the same lifestyle: getof rocking to big crowds,” Driscoll said. Driscoll said touring with Kouyate is “where I’ve always wanted to be. We’ve been on the road with this project now for 10 months of the last year. The back of the van is home.”

The duo’s debut album “Faya” was released Feb. 18 2014. The two are set to start recording their sophomore album this February. “It’s a one-of-a-kind energy-packed show,” Driscoll thing to experience live.”


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ENTERPRISE Out-of-state, out of mind How a barely-known law makes out-of-state tuition two and a half times higher

Dollars

300,000,000

tion of an advisory report on the state’s relationship with UVM. The report gave 12 recommendations; one of these was to change the 40 percent rule.

and a half times more to do this is “absurd.” In order to attend a second year, Holwerda needed to take out a $30,000 loan. “If [the money situation] worked out I would have been able to stay. However, home now and I’ve just It is imperative that the 40 per- I’m got to make the most of my cent rule be modified or the fu- scenario,” he said. The 40 percent rule ture viability of the university is caused out-of-state funding in jeopardy. to make up the difference and this situation is “unsustainable,” according to 2012 report to Gov. Shumlin Shumlin’s 2012 report. Since the creation of the “It is imperative that the law, state funding going for the discount. The 40 per40 percent rule be modified to the UVM general fund cent rule is specific to UVM. Over the 56 years that or the future viability of the budget decreased from althis rule has been in place, university is in jeopardy,” most 60 percent of the fund to a little under 14 percent this has not happened. Now the report stated. The advisory board could this year, according to data out-of-state students are not identify another public given by Richard Cate, vice paying for it. college or university in the president of finance and U.S. which had any similar treasurer of UVM. “UNSUSTAINABLE” rules. While one must recogHolwerda believes that nize “how small Vermont In 2012, Gov. Peter the fact UVM has to charge is,” the university does wish Shumlin ordered the creaout-of-state students two they could receive more funding, said Cate. State funding vs. UVM General Fund Budget “The bottom line is tuition is higher because the amount of money we get from the state is less,” he said.

400,000,000

Illustration by ALYSSA HANDELMAN

Sierra Connell is attending her second semester at UVM as an out-of-stater. She’s at her “number one school.” She’s volunteering, playing flute in concert band, spending her nights going to music events and hanging out with friends. Now, she’s leaving. Before she graduated high school, her father passed away and her mother became too injured to work. Without financial support, she took out $18,000 in student loans for her first year. She doesn’t want to graduate with $100,000 in debt, she said. “It’s not like my family [is full of] drug addicts. There’s no reason why I shouldn’t be able to go to the school I want to go to,” Connell said. Former student Aiden Holwerda was a biochemistry major, who frequently spent his weekends skiing with friends at Jay Peak and Stowe. Now he works at a brickyard and attends community college near Wyckoff, New Jersey, his hometown. He was aware of UVM’s cost as an out-of-state student, he said, but didn’t understand the magnitude of the situation until it was too late. To attend a second year, he would’ve had to take out a $30,000 loan.

“I ended up not feeling comfortable with it, so I ended up coming home, with hopes to find a cheaper way to get through school,” he said. Out-of-state tuition at UVM is the fourth highest in the country, according to U.S. News and World Report. Contributing to the high tuition cost is a barely-known state law called the “40 percent rule.” The law limits in-state tuition to 40 percent of out-ofstate tuition. In other words, out-of-state tuition must be two and a half times more than in-state. Vermont was then supposed to provide money to UVM to make up

A LAW FORGOTTEN 200,000,000

100,000,000

0 Year ABBY HOLMQUIST, Cynic Correspondent State funding (in thousands of dollars) and the UVM General Fund Budget, 1949-2015. Data was collected from the UVM Sourcebook and Richard Cate, vice president of finance and treasurer.

When the state made the law, they put a “placeholder for a percentage,” without “debate or reflection on its meaning or its consequence,” President Tom Sullivan said. “The history is that the 40 percent rule was literally not debated in the legislature when it went into effect in [1959],” Sullivan said.

Sullivan then went on to detail a legislative vanishing act: the second sentence of the law, which ensured the state fulfilled their side of the deal, was cut out. “For some reason, the second sentence got taken out a year or two after, with virtually no one paying attention,” Sullivan said. “We’re going down the road with both wheels on, and all of the sudden one is taken off,” he said, “You need both pieces.”

We’re going down the road with both wheels on, and then all of the sudden one is taken off...you need both pieces.

By Jacob Holzman, Sarah Olsen and Krista Cantrell Enterprise Staff

President Tom Sullivan

Rep. Peter Fagan, vice chair of the House Appropriations Committee, has an idea of why it is that Vermont lawmakers don’t know much about the rule. “We’re not looking back at how did this evolve over time,” Fagan said. “We’re just looking to see what is the law as it’s currently depicted. Going back in time like that is something that I doubt very few people will do.” For the full article, including the the possible future of the 40 percent rule, visit enterprise. vtcynic.com.


D i st r act i o n s

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2015

Y A T S G O N T I R W DU O H IVE ER T T C N A WI

Most people’s strive to stay active and healthy, but finding time and motivation to do it in the midst of a freezing Vermont winter can be tough. Here are some easy ways to stay active that won’t force you to slog to the gym or go running in the freezing cold.

9

OUZ

Illustration by OMAR AL-G

By Keely Agan

Don’t ride the bus.

1.

Walking rather than taking the bus to every class is a mindless way to stay a little more active this winter. However, you don’t have to risk frostbite on days when it’s 5 below zero. Try getting off one stop earlier to get a little more walking in than you normally would. “Don’t ride the bus, it’s not that cold. You’ll be fine,” sophomore Jake Saccoccio said.

3.

2.

Join a club.

If you are looking for a way to stay active that doesn’t feel like actual exercise, join a club or play an intramural sport. With a wide variety of clubs and at least three intramurals offered each season, there’s something here for everyone. If you’re having fun, staying active and healthy during winter won’t feel like such a burden.“I joined a fraternity and I believe that keeps me active all throughout the year. We do a lot of fun stuff,” sophomore Fernando Jimenez said.

5.

Mix it up with a dorm workout.

No matter how close you are to the gym, some Vermont winter days are so brutal that the walk feels 20 times harder than it already is. Luckily, technology has provided tons of workout apps that are fantastic and are suitable for many fitness levels. So when the roommate has gone to class, whip out your phone or laptop and have an intense yoga session in your own room. It’ll even be warm and free of judgmental eyes.

Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Another easy change you can make this winter is to take the stairs. While it might not seem like this simple change will make that much of an impact, it has been proven that people who make active lifestyle changes like taking the stairs tend to have lower body weight, according to helpguide.org. Walking up to your fourth floor dorm room a couple times each day adds up quickly. It’s like a gym session without leaving your building.

4.

Ski or snowboard. You’re going to school in Vermont, one of the best states for skiing and snowboarding. Even if you are just a beginner, it isn’t too hard to tag along with one of the groups that go up to the mountain every weekend. Not only are skiing and snowboarding famous pastimes here in Vermont, but it’s always a fun way to add some activity into the weekend days. “Skiing is a great way to build a social circle and stay in shape. Being on the ski team is awesome because I have an awesome group of friends on and off the slopes,” sophomore Kelly Glander said.


Opinion

Remove 40 percent EDITORIAL BOARD Editor-in-Chief Cory Dawson cynic@uvm.edu 802-363-6696

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Stu Laperle newsroom@vtcynic.com

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Laurel Saldinger distractions@vtcynic.com

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Jacob Holzman enterprise@vtcynic.com

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Ciera Libenson illustrations@vtcynic.com

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Life

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Molly O’shea video@vtcynic.com

STAFF EDITORIAL The human appendix is the classic example of a vestigial organ. It doesn’t really do anything, hundreds of people die a year from them exploding and millions of dollars are spent on surgeries to remove it. Unfortunately, we are all born with these vestigial organs. In Vermont, we have a vestigial law. Turn two pages back and you’ll reading an account of Vermont’s archaic and deficient “40 percent rule.” The rule binds the hands of our administration and empties the wallets of our out-of-state peers. Legislators have all but forgotten about it and it is costing us, the students, millions upon millions. The 40 percent rule was a law passed in 1959. The law caps in-state tuition at 40 percent of out-of-state tuition, effectively more than doubling out-of-state tuition. UVM is the only school in the country to have such a restriction. The artificial difference was supposed to have been subsi-

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dized by the state legislature, but never was. When almost 60 percent of our general fund came from the state, we were in the clear. Now, as we hover around 14 percent from state funding, we should all be scratching our heads. What’s more, the 40 percent rule originally had a state funding requirement attached to the law, a requirement that was inexplicably removed two years after the law was put on the books. What you’re left with is the fourth highest out-of-state tuition in the country.

Students at UVM are starting to notice. We’ve collected numerous accounts of such students who are forced to leave their dream school for another university. Some have not returned to school at all. The Cynic stands firmly against the 40 percent rule. We call upon our legislators to take steps to stand on the side of reason and take steps to fix this. They either need to make good on their more than half a century old pledge to subsidize out-of-state tuition or simply repeal the law. We hope you stand with us.

A uniting challenge Kevin Santamaria

Web

Kyra Bevins web@vtcynic.com

Illustration by ALYSSA HANDELMAN

The challenge of the 21st century is the issue of climate change. We are at a crossroads. On one road, the path is clear, as it has been the course we have been on: destabilized weather, runaway inequality and militarized “democracies.” On the second road, on the path not yet explored, the ground is blurry, the horizon not yet visible. It’s a trail that we build as we travel. We have been unable to decide which path to take for far too long. In order to address an issue that is global in scope, the solutions must also be global. When we see photographs of Mother Earth from space, it becomes abundantly clear: We only have one home and we are only separated by the borders of our minds. At the root of this issue is how we decide to power our economy: fossil fuels or renewable energy. Do we continue promoting unlimited economic growth in the name of “progress” or do we change our track to create an

economy that is sustainable? When the economy is nourished by petroleum, oil and gas, power is centralized in the hands of those who control these resources — electrical power plants (justified as “natural monopolies”), dictators sitting on oceans of black gold and contractors that exploit our environment for their gain. Yet, when the economy is fueled by solar power, wind energy and geothermal heat, authority is in the hands of local communities. Should we be surprised then, that the opponents of this power shift are primarily fossil fuel producers? Indeed, climate change will require global change. But a more perfect challenge to unite humanity could not be asked for. Climate change will demand a restructuring of society. From how economics is taught and how business is conducted, to how we measure progress and how we produce objects, everything will have to change. We have been given one of the most powerful tools in human history for this transition: the internet. The internet connects the world in ways no empire has ever been able to do. The internet understands every language, accepts every culture and equalizes even the most

disenfranchised. But the internet is under attack by the very forces that are standing in the way of human progress. In addition, within our lifetime we will see the collapse of the language barrier, as English becomes the language spoken by the majority of the world. English is also a genderneutral language. A chair is chair and not a male or female object, which could increase gender equality. What will be able to separate us when we can all communicate face-to-face or through the internet? Climate change will challenge us, requiring us to alter our economy, change our behavior and improve our relationships with one another. But for every great challenge, there comes an even greater reward. The phrase “think globally, act locally” could very well embody the journey we must embark on. So we stand, looking at which path to follow. For every action that we take is a step toward the world we want to live in. Kevin Santamaria is a senior economics and political science double major. He has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2011.

Unsigned editorials officially reflect the views of The Vermont 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 opinion@vtcynic.com. We are also committed to accuracy in all of our work. If for some reason there is an error, please send all letters of correction to cynic@uvm.edu. 116 Dudley H. Davis Center 590 Main Street Burlington, Vt. 05405

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Letter to the editor Dear Editor,

In this past week’s issue, Vox: Voices for Planned Parenthood at UVM was dismayed to see an insert from the pro-life group Vermont Right to Life. If the Cynic wishes to uphold credibility as a news source, they must exercise discretion and verify that their advertisements reflect reputable organizations and accurate information. To accept money for ad space while turning a blind eye to the people paying for it is irresponsible and harmful to all of their readers. Vermont Right to Life spreads pro-life propaganda rooted in medical misinformation and fanaticism. Organizations like this feed lies to communities, coercing students into their clinics with promises of “pregnancy counseling” without ever mentioning abortion or the health risks of pregnancy. Patients are then bombarded with shame, guilt and inaccurate medical information during what could be an individual’s most vulnerable moments. We are disappointed in the Cynic: while they are willing to condemn other religious fanatics on campus (Read: Jesus lady), yet are complicit in distributing these attested fliers if it pays for advertising. Why is it that each year, the Student Activities fest allows CareNet and Birthright, Catholic pro-life organizations, to table among all other the “women’s wellness” groups without any indication that these are evangelical Christian plugs? It’s one thing for these organizations to uphold this facade, but it’s another thing entirely when UVM representatives like the Cynic help these organizations to seep into our community without any critical attention to their motives. We understand that the Cynic wants provide equal say from politically divergent groups. But promoting plural political perspectives is different than cashing checks from organizations like Vermont Right To Life, who will not respect a woman’s choice to have an abortion. And while it’s shameful that in 2015 we’re still debating the efficacy of legislating and policing women’s bodies and reproductive choices, perhaps next time if the Cynic chooses to distribute anti-choice organizations’ literature, they won’t do so with bogus information, alongside of ignoring the fact allowing these advertisements into our school paper is, in fact, political and reflects poorly on their journalistic integrity. Sincerely, Vox: Voices for Planned Parenthood at UVM

2012 Online Pacemaker 2011 Newspaper Pacemaker First issue free, second issue 50 cents.


Sports New skatepark coming to BTV Colby Cunningham

In 2006 the Burlington Parks Department realized it was time for a bigger and better skate park at the Burlington waterfront, according to burlingtonvt.gov. The previous skatepark, now completely torn up and excavated, was built over 10 years ago. Heavy use and Vermont weather made it unsuitable for safe skating. As part of the city’s new Waterfront Access North redevelopment project, a state-ofthe-art skatepark is being put in right where the old one used to be. “I’m really looking forward to the park and the fact that it’s fully concrete,” junior Jordan Mureta said. “It’s going to be one of the best skate parks in the whole state, and the fact that really excites me.” At a budgeted cost of $1.4 million, according to the website, skaters from far and wide will have the chance to to skate while enjoying views of Lake Champlain. The project began back in August, after being approved by voters on Town Meeting Day. This project has been in discussion for about six years now, with numerous complications arising since then, according to the website. The visible construction

PHOTO COURTESY OF SE GROUP

zones at the waterfront shows that progress is being made. This is especially exciting for skaters like Mureta, who said he’s been waiting for this park to open for a while. The new park is going to spur economic growth according to the website, as there are three skate shops within just a few miles of the park itself. There are about three to four thousand people of all ages who skateboard, BMX and rollerblade in the city of Burlington, according to burlingtonvt.gov. The new park was designed

by Grindline Skateparks, a Seattle-based company specializing in the design and construction of premium skate parks. The park plans include many unique features, designed to appeal to those new to the sport and those with a higher level of skill so it’s enjoyable for all ages. “It’s the scale of the park that is going to attract skaters from all around,” Brendan Foster, the owner of Maven skate shop in downtown Burlington, said. “Skaters might not travel to skate a bowl, a street course, a mini ramp, etc. Skaters are go-

ing to travel to a park that has all of these elements in one place.” In its 20,000 square foot elements will make this park unique to Burlington. The vision includes a small bowl and a large bowl, multiple stair and rail features and a Vermont shaped box. The park will also feature a “sail” bank and a glass wallride, which is a large glass wall that skaters can ride over or perform only in one other skate park in the U.S.

“This new park will undoubtedly be one of the best, if not the best, skatepark in all of New England,” Foster said. “It’s the scale of the park that is going to attract skaters from all around,” Foster said. “Skaters might not travel to skate a bowl, a street course, a mini ramp, etc. Skaters are going to travel to a park that has all of these elements in one place.” Maven will be holding events this spring to raise awareness for the park. The projected grand opening is spring 2016.

Boldly Brandt Alex Benoit

of the strongest starts in program history this year, but has since been on a losing skid. Head Coach Kevin Sneddon discussed this year’s squad and some of his personal history. The Vermont Cynic: What are your general thoughts on the season and how do you hope to respond to the recent downslide? Head Coach Kevin Sneddon: We’ve had a very good season to date which has made us a contender for championships. We’ve had some tough times as of late, but I fully expect that will only make us stronger heading into the stretch run when it matters most. The character in our locker room is outstanding, led by [senior] captain Mike Paliotta. When you have great people to work with, you can get through the tough stretches together. VC: What players have really impressed you this season and who is under-appreciated from a fan’s perspective KS: Our most improved player to date has been Dan Senkbeil. He plays his role very well

that he preferred a slightly-de-

Dave Brandt In the 13 days without football leading up to the Superbowl, the sports media is bound to blow even the smallest story out of proportion. IJ IDRIZAJ The Vermont Cynic

and is extremely professional in the ice. I also think we’ve had most players contribute in different ways throughout the season. We are not a team full of superstars, but collectively we are tough to play against because of our depth. VC: Shifting over to you personally now, where are you from and what kind of hockey culture were you around growing up? KS: I am from Burlington, Ontario in Canada and I grew up around the game as my dad [Bob Sneddon] played professional hockey until I was 8 years old.

VC: Ultimately, what prompted the decision for you KS: I was lost after my playing career ended due to injuries. I met with Coach Bill Cleary (my Harvard coach) and he thought I should attend the national coaches convention. When I did, I realized it was something I wanted to do for a few years...22 years later. VC: Who has made the biggest impact on your hockey career and coaching career? KS: Cleary and Ronn Tomassoni were excellent college coaches and I learned a lot about the game from them.

balls and Bill Belichick have fallen victim. The result is being called Following the New England Patriots dominating 45-7 win over the Indianapolis Colts in the AFC Championship, members of the Colts organization cried scandal. Yes, the evil empire that is the New England Patriots has apparently struck again. Responding to the controversy, the NFL found that 11 of the Patriots’ 12 game balls tion of 12.5 to 13.5 pounds per square inch. To further fuel the controversy, reporters have uncovered a 2011 radio interview in which Tom Brady suggested

Add this to an organization marred by Spygate and a curt, widely-disliked head coach, and the sports media has enough less days. Ever since winning three Super Bowl championships in the span of four years, the Patriots have been disliked by fans of the other 31 teams in the NFL. Of course this situation demands attention, as fairness is essential to any competition; however, in a game lost by nearly 40 points, the Colts have a lot more to worry about than a The Patriots defense gave up just seven points while running back LeGarrette Blount rushed for 148 yards and three touchdowns. As New England cornerback Brandon Browner pointed out in a tweet: “[Blount] could’ve carried a beach ball.” valid issue, but it should not be drowning out coverage on the NFL’s most important story of the year: Super Bowl XLIX.


12

S PO RTS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2015

Young players lift hoops teams “He’s got that swagger. He’s just tough, he’s the kind of guy you can win a championship with because he has no fear.” Becker said, according to onebidwonders.com. Standing at only 6 feet 1 inch, Wills, who leads the team in rebounds per game at 5.2, has a surprising ability to grab boards over taller opponents. “He wants to defend the best player or have the ball in his hands in the

PHOTO COURTESY OF UVM ATHLETICS

Armin Milak

With the departure of key starting seniors from last year’s squad, sophomore guard Dre Wills has stepped up his game to smooth the program’s transition. Recruited by former Vermont Assistant Coach Chris Markwood, Wills said it was a no-brainer for him to attend UVM. “Chris came to Indiana and watched a few AAU games of mine and showed a lot of interest in me, and once I saw the campus I knew I wanted to be here,” Wills said. He has quickly improved his game to become perhaps the best overall player on the team, Head Coach John Becker said.

Haynes said, according to the website. Wills is considered one of the best defenders in the America East Conference and is a contender for Defensive Player of the Year, he averages 2.1 steals and one block per game. “I want to try and win American East Defensive Player of the Year,” Wills said. “I believe that’s the strongest facet of my game.” Wills holds high expectations for himself and his teammates each game. “We expect to compete for the America East title and be in the NCAA tournament every year,” Wills said. “Even though we’re young, we still feel like we’re one of the best teams in the league.” Besides his internal motivation, Wills attributes his passion to the school and the fans who come out to every game. “We have a great academic school and our fans are second to none here. school and team,” Wills said. The Catamounts next play at 7 p.m. Jan. 28. at Patrick Gym when they host the University of Albany, who currently sit atop the America East Standings ahead of the second place Catamounts.

pursue it seriously early on. “ I spent hours and hours, almost every single day, trying to get as good as I possibly can, and now I’m lucky enough to be playing for a college that I love, with coaches and a team that I love,” she said. Since coming to UVM, Smith has noticed her playing style develop, particularly her defensive skills. “My defense is a huge area where my coaches really focused and made me get better at. If you saw me in high school, dence in me.” Since arriving at UVM, she said she has been able to appreciate the people and the environment.

PHOTO COURTESY OF UVM ATHLETICS

Somer Brown

First-year Sydney Smith scored 14 points in her fourth UVM game last week against the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Before coming the UVM, Smith was captain of her high school team her junior and senior year. “My sophomore year and junior year we went downstate and got second place, which was really cool, especially my sophomore year because we were kind of like the underdogs,” Smith said. “No one really took us seriously until we got out there and beat a lot of good opponents and made a name for ourselves, and we did the same thing our junior year.” Smith became interested in basketball in middle school, and chose to

ent from the midwest,” Smith said. She also enjoys the classes that she has taken since enrolling last semester. “It’s demanding and it’s challenging, which is exactly what I look for in academics.” Smith has two main role models: Dallas Mavericks point guard Rajon Rondo, who “really does it all,” and her father. “I really look up to my dad,” Smith said. “We are very alike, and he’s always looked out for me. It really plays a vital role in where I am today.” Smith remembers her greatest triumphs as a basketball player as the moments in which her team exceeded the expectations of the people around her. She loves being an underdog. “In high school, we beat the number one team in the state two years in a row to go to the championship game,” she said. “It’s really awesome. People can think you’re an underdog, and it doesn’t have to be true. Basketball is a sport where anything can happen.”


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