A look into graffiti culture in Burlington — on both sides of the law
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First-year remembered at memorial Bryan O’Keefe Last week, the UVM community mourned the loss of Christina Menke. Menke died in an accident that injured two other UVM students, and left many friends, family members, fellow students and faculty shocked and saddened. UVM hosted a gathering of remembrance April 10 in celebration of Menke’s life. gree in nursing from the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Menke has been described by Annie Stevens, vice provost for healer and a peacemaker. Members of the community were invited to gather and share memories and stories. Patricia Prelock, dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, spoke on behalf of faculty and students who worked closely with Menke. Many recall her as a dear friend, a beautiful soul, caring and kind, dedicated and sensitive, and added that she always stood her ground Prelock said.
by the lost opportunity to have known this amazing young woman, through more than just many people,” Prelock said. Menke’s brother, Alex Menke, spoke in honor of his sister and shared a piece written by her other brother, Andrew, who was not able to attend the gathering. “Christina was one of the said. “ do anything. When other people were afraid or insecure, Christina was bold and adventurous,”Menke said. Menke’s friend and fellow UVM student, senior Megan Loiselle, also shared a few words on behalf of her life. “Christina’s life was too short but it was full, passionate and inspiring,” Loiselle said. Menke’s long-time boyfriend, Luke Young, as well as was also injured in the accident last weekend, are members of the UVM Top Cats.
BEX ADAMS The Vermont Cynic (Left) Christina Menke is pictured. (Top right) A memorial at the catamount statue is pictured April 10. (Bottom right) UVM hosted a Gathering of Remembrance for family and friends to celebrate Menke’s life. Menke had a special relationship with the a capella group, and they performed two songs at the gathering.
Menke’s boyfriend was the lead singer for their rendition Mayer.
“Our joy is greater, our love deeper and our lives fuller because we shared Christina’s moments,” Prelock said.
Construction projects will not raise price of tuition $625 million Natalie Williams
With the many construction projects beginning this summer, some students wonder whether tuition will increase as a result. “That’s a good idea, if they are not increasing tuition,” sophomore Blaze Vogliano said. The STEM — science, technology, engineering and mathematics complex — is going to cost approximately $104 milbe privately funded and the rest will be paid through the general fund, Cate said. in the budget we have. Basically
we call it debt service, but it’s the mortgage,” Cate said. This “mortgage” will last for 35 years and come out of the $625 million annual general fund budget, he said.
annual budget for UVM
56 percent of this budget is supported by undergraduate tuition
think about how this plays out in terms of tuition,” Cate said. “So the general fund will pay for 75 percent of the project, but if we think about undergraduate tuition, 56 percent of that budget is supported by undergraduate tuition.” “So it’s 56 percent of 75 percent, so it’s more like something in the neighborhood of 40 percent of that project will be supported by tuition, is kind of the way the math goes.” The new dorm that will be built on central campus is using
100% 25% 100% of the cost to construct the new dorms on central campus will be paid for by a private developer.
Students enjoy a sunny weekend Good music, food and sunshine could all be found on Redstone campus April 10. Events such as Redstock and the Catamount Color Run drew students from their dorms and into the spring weather.
SPORTS
EDITORIAL
SAA hosts Catamount Color Run
Bringing it back
The Student Alumni Association brought the first-ever Catamount Color Run fund raising to campus April 11. The event took place on Redstone campus and donations were made by several on-campus organizations.
Ever since UVM made the decision to cut Varsity Baseball and Softball, players, alumni, students and residents have all cried one phrase — “Bring it back”. Now, we do too.
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of the renovation cost for Billings Library and Kalkin Hall will be privately funded.
Information obtained from Richard Cate Image by Natalie Williams
See CONSTRUCTION on page 4
SPECTACLE
T h e Ve r m o n t C y n i c
of the $104 million cost for the STEM project will be privately funded, the rest will be paid for through a mortgage style payment from the general fund.
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2015
Crime Log Program going green with design ‘Sodexo bill’ By Jill Vaglica April 3, 2:37 a.m.
Police responded to a reA student fell asleep while smoking on a futon. The student’s roommate woke up and smelled the futon starting to burn. The two students dragged the futon outdoors.
There was no damage to the room. A report has been forwarded to the Center for Student Ethics & Standards.
April 4, 3:07 a.m.
UVM police assisted Burperson screaming in the area of St. Paul and Maple streets.
April 5, 11:50 a.m.
Two roommates in Austin Hall had a dispute.
One roommate told police that his roommate pushed him, while the other roommate told police that his roommate threatened him with a stick. the dispute, and police referred the incident to the Center for Student Ethics & Standards.
April 5, 11:12 p.m. called police to report a person smoking marijuana. Some marijuana and pipes
focuses on worker rights
Kelsey Neubauer
UVM is a place where students can explore their role in their ecosystem . This is the goal of the ecological design collaboratory, according to their page on the UVM website. “When you design things, how do you honor the ecology, the craftsmanship and the local skills involved?” senior lecturer and greenhouse director Walter Poleman said. “What we’re really about is place-based ecological literacy and design,” he said All of the design building materials will come from local sources, according to the website. “A lot of students were inter-
Caroline Alkire To the disappointment of several progressive Vermont lawmakers, the Sodexo Bill was once again rejected in the Vermont senate. Sen. Phil Baruth is the lead sponsor of the bill. He said that this proposed bill was created in response to unfair conditions Sodexo workers have been experiencing via penalizations for taking sick days they were told they were entitled to. Baruth is a professor at UVM in the English department, and decided to sponsor the bill after hearing complaints from UVM Sodexo workers.
just sort of inherited it and galvanized it into a grant proposal that they really like.” Poleman said that for one project, the wood was cut down ished product – a canoe – will be brought down the Winooski wood was from. The idea for this project came from sophomore Patrick Coppinger, according to UVM’s communications website. Local craftsman Tom Clarke, who is working on the canoe project with the students of the collaboratory, has been involved in woodworking since attending Paul Smith’s College 15 years ago. “Seeing the shape of the canoe emerge from the wood ties [students] to the whole process, and gives them a sense of place,” he said.
JEN RAMIREZ The Vermont Cynic Sophomore Patrick Coppinger waxes the canoe built in University Heights South April 1 as a part of the ecological design collaboratory. Sophomore Ellen Thorne said that she has done a lot of canoeing, and thought it was interesting to work with the boat paddle. thing and then get to use it,” Thorne said. There are multiple programs to promote ecological engagement within the collaboratory, ing the community, discovering
ecology and gaining a better understanding of the world,” Coppinger said. Poleman said that the collaboratory is about building an “ecological place” at UVM. The ecological design collaboratory is funded by the of Environmental and Natural
who are worried about policy because they love their jobs, and don’t want to go to work sick,” Baruth said. For the past 58 years, UVM and Sodexo have had a partnership despite complaints from students about food quality and company ethics. A new contract between the 1 according to UVM’s Vice Provost Annie Stevens. licans voted against the bill 1412, as many felt it was targeting a single employer. Baruth disagreed, arguing that it was “targeting a practice” instead.
to the ecological design collaboratory website.
SGA Updates By Alexandra Shannon
April 6, 2:52 a.m.
The door to the Wright Hall unlocked and the lights had been left on.
Nothing was found disness center.
April 6, 6:50 a.m.
Police received a report through their online reporting system of a suspicious took place at 3:30 a.m. A student reported having heard a noise outside of the dorm room window and thought a person was tampering with the screen.
April 6, 3:58 p.m. bongs and a grinder from a student’s room during room inspections, and turned them over to police for destruction. A report has been sent to the Center for Student Ethics & Standards.
SASA resolution proved
ap-
ports the Coalition of Students Against Sexual Violence, was approved. This organization works toward preventing sexual violence and rape culture on campus, according to their presentation.
Marijuana legalization resolution opposed
All SGA senators, except Alexander Collingsworth, opposed resolution 8, which supports the marijuana legalization. Collingsworth proposed the resolution and was hoping for at least a handful of votes, he said. The resolution would show the Vermont Senate that SGA is in support of an opportunity to talk about it and to possibly have a say in the house,” Collingsworth said.
Creation of an interfaith center approved ports the establishment of an interfaith center on campus, was approved.
Climbing wall funds
Members of the Student Action Committee met with cuss funding for the climbing wall. SGA is responsible for all funds allocated toward the climbing wall, and Campus help fund it.
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2015
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Fund finances local clean energy projects
projects on campus and in the greater Burlington area. The fund was created May 2008 by UVM’s board of trustfrom student-led initiatives in 2005. The SGA endorsed the fund in 2007 by implementing a ranin which 68 percent agreed to pay $10 per semester for developing clean energy on campus, according to the UVM Clean Energy Fund website. The fund is used for clean energy projects on campus, though up to 10 percent of the funds it raised can be used for administrative costs associated with the program, and is not associated with the University’s general budget. The fund is led by a commitadministrators. for approval, according to the Clean Energy Fund website.
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The fact that UVM students are making decisions and representing our views sounds like a wonderful opportunity First-year Danielle Norris
tuition, especially if it’s working to make UVM a better place
MARISA ROSENTHAL The Vermont Cynic Clean Energy Fund, which is partly funded by ten dollars of each students’ tuition each semester. for current students and future [students].” “The fact that UVM students are making decisions and representing our views sounds like a wonderful opportunity,” she said. they’re up to though,” she said.
Prepping for medical school Nick Vidal Cynic Correspondent
ana on a wrestling scholarship,” Berger said. “But even though he ended up under performing there because he ‘majored’ in wrestling, he [ended] up being one of the had,” he said. The program will accept only 15 students each year.
and applied experiential education through energy-related
trips. Other initiatives involved bringing the Power from the North Conference, a transnational clean energy production March 2015 .
Journalist brings book tour to UVM Allie Osorno
Beginning in the fall of 2015, UVM will be introducing a brand new medical science master’s prep program for students wishing to hone their medical science skills. Formally known as the master of medical science degree, this year-long, on-campus program will consist of a focused set of core courses selected from the biomedical disciplines. The curriculum will include 30 credits in biochemistry, cell biology and physiology, as well as a six-credit human anatomy course, which many similar programs at other universities often lack, according to an April 7 press release. “This is a competitive, robust biomedical master’s program designed to help students who may not have considered medical school in their undergraduate years and are now refocusing their careers,” said associate professor of molecular physiology and biophysics in the College of Medicine. The program is geared at students who feel their undergraduate performance in the sciences does not match their abilities, the press release stated. Having volunteered as program director, Berger said he believes in providing students with a second chance.
The 2014-15 projects are in progress. This includes bringing a student energy action seminar series to campus in the fall. The seminar is designed to
extortion,” he said. Corchado said he received his
give so much more than a simple story. Alfredo Corchado, the author of “Midnight in Mexico,” was able to gain a new perspective on his identity through his journalism. Corchado came to speak in the Waterman Memorial Corchado moved to the United States with his mother, for hwon the book is written, as a teenager. “My book isn’t just about drug violence, it’s also a confession to my mother,” Corchado said. “A love letter to her from her homeland.” Throughout the book he
OLIVER POMAZI The Vermont Cynic Program Director Chris Berger speaks about the new pre-med masters program in the College of Medicine at Henderson’s April 10. All of the accepted students must have received a Bachelors of Arts or Bachelors of Science from an accredited university. As well, they must have at least two semesters each of general biology, organic chemistry and physics, according to the press release. Students on the pre-med “track” at the University believe that this program is an excellent idea. portunity for students to become more familiar and prepared for medical school, all while improving their chances
of acceptance,” said sophomore Michaela Paul. Paul is currently pursuing a biology degree, and is intending to go to medical school. Though the program aims to help students gain admittance into medical school, Berger emphasizes the importance of assessing students’ performance once they arrive to gauge the program’s success. “Our goal is to ensure not just that our students get into medical school,” Berger said, “but that they succeed in medical school.”
childhood that helped shape who he is and who he is not. Corchado had a longing to know more about the Mexico that his parents left behind. After becoming a journalist, Corchado decided he wanted to report from Mexico. he engaged in investigative journalism, concentrating on corruption and the drug trade. reminisced about the advice his father gave him before he emget involved with the narcos, they don’t understand the word forgiveness.” A crowd member asked Corchado his opinion on marijuana legalization. “There will always be something, of it’s not weed, then it will be heroine and meth,” Corchado said. “Today, organized crime is has grown into kidnappings and
a journalist is attacked by either authorities or organized crime,” Corchado said. Corchado continued with his book. “Midnight in Mexico” recounts his journey as a reporter in Mexico, but focuses on how he came to understand himself. other audience member asked Corchado his thoughts on the drug relations in Colombia.
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In Mexico, every 26 hours a journalist is attacked by either authorities or organized crime Alfredo Corchado
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Every semester, $10 of each undergraduate and graduate student’s tuition goes toward “greening” UVM’s campus through the Clean Energy Fund. tainability, the Clean Energy
Although the presence of the project is spread throughout campus in the form of solar panels and conference opportunities, many students are unaware of its role on campus. First-year environmental studies and ecological agriculresents a number of the students who are unaware of the project.
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Beena Jacob Cynic Correspondent
“Colombia has progressed as a nation and is currently involved in an arts movement,” Corchado said. Corchado initially aspired to be a songwriter. “
music, has the power to transform a country,” Corchado said, “Having my fans make a playlist for my book was a great honor for me.” Aside from the arts, Corchado also believes social media plays a large role in Mexico today. “Social media allows for Mexico’s shame to be brought to a national audience,” Corchado said.
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2015
LUCI LOBE The Vermont Cynic David Leonhardt, managing editor of The New York Times’ new website the Upshot, speaks to an audience in the Livak Ballroom April 8. Upshot is a website that focuses on politics, the economy and policy.
New York Times writer talks policy John Riedel Assistant News Editor
exceptionally insightful and articulate observer of the intersection between American politics and the American economy.”
Lecture Series, a New York Times editor gave a lecture April 8 about American politics and the concept of the American
hardt spoke about education in America and the movement for free high school education. “Education is the single best way to overcome the circumstances of birth, and it is a divide that prevents many people from doing so,” he said. He went on to speak about the issues of student debt and
the managing editor for the New York Times’ website the Upshot, which covers politics and policy using data to decipher. “The political science departture for several reasons,”,said Alec Ewald, interim dean of the honors college said. “He is an
America. “The problem we have with student debt today is not the kids who graduate with a college
degree and $50,000 in debt,” Leonhardt said. “On average, those kids do is the kids who graduate with $20,000 to $30,000 in debt and no degree. Those kids don’t writer for the New York Times and wrote columns about economics, according to the New York Times’ website. “[Being a journalist,] it’s
that when you wrote something down, people take it more seriously than when you say it.”
Field guide links conservationists and economists Emma Trainor Literature about the connection between economics and conservation can now be found UVM LUCI LOBE The Vermont Cynic Construction workers prepare the ground for the new privately-owned housing buildings that will be built behind Bailey-Howe Library April 9.
CONSTRUCTION ...continued from page 1 so the University won’t be spending any money on it,” Cate said. “The way it works is that students pay the rent, as they would with any residence hall on campus, [and] that money will go to the private party,” he said. ments, this project will house classmen, he said. next year so we’re paying some private owner,” sophomore Carthan juniors and seniors paying a private owner.” The Billings project will be
STEM building will cost $104 million almost entirely privately funded due to the reduction in plans. The Chiller Plant, which is conater, will be renovated through saved capital funds. The Alumni House will be paid by the Foundation through a loan from UVM, Cate said. “The president’s number one priority for fundraising for the endowment is scholarship,” he said. Financial aid has continued to grow as a result of this priority. gins to grow, at two to three times the rate of tuition increases,” Cate said.
professors
Taylor
the World Wildlife Foundation wrote “A Field Guide to Economics for Conservationists” together. Their goal was to write it in a way that is accessible and entertaining, Fisher said. show all of the costs and benhave economic and biodiversity or conservation components to it,” he said.
of conservation] more straightforward.” [natural resources] classes that are geared towards social sciences and not just science as an environmental science major,” senior Megan Sullivan said. The book is currently being used in one graduate class on ecosystem services at UVM, and Fisher said that he would love to School on this topic. up, learn and it will help you see he said.
Peace Corps at UVM Application Workshop Choose where you want to go. Apply in one hour. Make a difference overseas as a Peace Corps Volunteer.
Friday, April 17 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Morrill Hall - Lab (Morrill Hall 005) University of Vermont
Peace Corps peacecorps.gov - 855.855.1961
Life
A culture change ‘is in the air’ Community tackles rape culture at annual event
Stretching toward finals Allison Carey
Harper Simpson
ignored. It happens here,” she said. Sophomore Dakota Raleigh had similar thoughts. “As much as we like to think sexual assualt doesn’t happen at UVM, it does,” she said. “Part of changing that is changing our social culture that endorses it.” The all-day conference was
ing, we are all getting ready to bunker down in our favorite library study spot. Use these quick mobility tricks to keep your back and legs from getting too break from those books.
The Couch Stretch
LYDIA KOERNER The Vermont Cynic
The organizers of the 10th annual Dismantling Rape Culture conference pictured right April 10. planned by a committee of 10 individuals, including UVM students and faculty and people from the Burlington community. teers who were primarily students, said Sarah Warrington, director of the UVM Women’s Center. “It’s nice to have a community of like-minded folks who get it and that this community even exists here,” Warrington said. “That can lead to change.” The conference started with
SEXUAL ASSUALT STATISTICS The Dismantling Rape Culture Conference highlighted the importance of awareness. Here are a few statistics about sexual assault according to the Center For Disease Control. A WOMAN'S CHANCE OF BEING RAPED IN THE US: 1 IN 5. RAPE RESULTS IN ABOUT 32,000 PREGNANCIES EACH YEAR. FEMALE VICTIMS OF NON-CONSENSUAL SEX WERE MORE LIKELY TO REPORT HEART ATTACK AND HEART DISEASE COMPARED TO NON-VICTIMS. IN A STUDY OF UNDERGRADUATE WOMEN, 19% EXPERIENCED ATTEMPTED OR COMPLETED SEXUAL ASSAULT SINCE ENTERING COLLEGE. AMONG FEMALE RAPE VICTIMS, ROUGHLY 50% OF PERPETRATORS WERE REPORTED TO BE INTIMATE PARTNERS. SEXUAL VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH EVENTS
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22 TAKE BACK THE NIGHT 5:30 @ ROYAL TYLER
Get on all fours and position your foot against the wall behind you with your toes pointed up and your knee on the ground (the laces of your shoes should be touching the wall). Keep your knee as close to the wall as possible while keeping an upright torso. You should feel a stretch through the front of your hip onds to a minute in this position, and do this two times on each side.
23 HUNTING GROUND DOCUMETARY 7-10pm@ IRA ALLEN CHAPEL
SEX TALK 7-9pm@ MEMORIAL LOUNGE WATERMAN
RAPE CRISIS ASSISTANCE Campus Victim’s Advocate: (802) 656-7892
The Quad Stretch
Annie Stevens, welcoming an audience of over 600 people, including college students, community members and out-ofstaters. “Culture change is in the air,” Stevens said. “It is simply the right thing to do.” Senior Sarah Richardson said she attended the conference “I am so grateful that I was able to go,” Richardson said. “This is an issue that I am very passionate about,” she said. “I think it is so important to be a part of conversations about sexual violence, domestic violence and unhealthy relationships.” Featured speakers at the event included Sandra Kim and Stephanie Gilmore, according to the UVM Women’s Center website. Kim is the CEO and co-publisher of Everyday Feminism, “one of the largest independent feminist media sites in the world,” according to the Women’s Center website. Gilmore is a writer, activist, publication editor and educator, according to the website. “I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of people, especially students who were at the conference,” senior Dylan Letendre said. “I think it shows that we are really starting to have conversations about rape culture on campus,” Lentendre said. Participants could attend several workshop sessions throughout the day.
Standing on one foot, grab your other foot with whichever hand feels most comfortable. Raise your other hand over your head and push your hips forward. Like the couch stretch, you should feel a stretch through the front of your hips.
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Rape culture exists here like it exists in the rest of America Emma Boel Sophomore
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Based on anonymous reports from surveys sampling thousands of college students, one in four college women report being rape or experiencing attempted rape in their lifetime, according to oneinfourusa.org. “[Rape] is a direct symptom of a culture that aims to make its men violent and its women objects,” sophomore Emma Boel said. “As UVM students, we all need to work together to unlearn and rewrite this narrative.” The UVM Women’s Center sponsored the 10th annual Dismantling Rape Culture Conference April 9 in the Davis Center. “UVM is an institution that resides inside of a patriarchal society, and rape culture exists here like it exists in the rest of America,” Boel said. “There are students on this campus who rape other students. There are survivors who
Weekly Health Columnist
“Recognizing and Rejecting Rape Culture,” “Supporting Male Survivors,” “ “Making Self-Care for Sustainable Activism the Norm,” and “Activism from Scratch: Changing Campus Rape Culture with Limited Resources.” Warrington said, “There’s this sense that I’m not alone with wanting to have these conversations and recognizing that these conversations are valuable.” bating sexual assault, community members can go to the “It’s On US UVM” Facebook page for a list of events during the month of April, the Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Illustration by Marissa Lanoff
Work Standing Up The more you sit, the tighter your legs and espeget. Staying in this position ened will make it harder for them to stretch when you stand. By doing work standing up, you will keep this from happening while increasing entire body.
Sit on a Ball By putting yourself on a wobbly seat, you are forcing your core muscles to work to stabilize your body.
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LI fe
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2015
Humans of The University of Vermont Harper Simpson &
It may not always be evident, but diversity is real here at UVM. The diversity exists in personalities, upbringings, interests, religion, sexuality; you name it, it’s here. In New York City, Brandon Stanton of Humans of New York roams the streets looking for hints of humanity to intertwine us all.
Daniel Jamrog, Massachusetts
Katherine Wilcenski , New York
Emily Peters, New Jersey
Photos by Natalie Williams
High rankings for UVM Cells clash with class UVM was recently ranked as the public college with the 22nd highest graduation rate in the country, according to CNN Money. UVM students graduate within four years. “I think it’s because tuition is so expensive,” sophomore Ganesh Sharma said. “Graduating in four years is an investment.” Pamela Gardner, director of the Career Center, said that it’s the students, faclearning and help students to be successful. Gardner said that connections with friends, time with faculty outside of the classroom, availability of interest in students all encourage students to be successful. Junior Olivia Sorci said it helps that professors are engaged with students. “Professors really care about the students here,” Sorci said. Other students said it’s graduation rate. “If you’re surrounded by motivated people, you’re going to be motivated too,” senior Eli Coniglio said. The Career Center also offers a four year plan, which is designed to help “maxi-
mize” student engagement and help students “stay on track” with their goals, according to the Career Center’s website.
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Professors really care about the students here Olivia Sorci Junior
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Eileen Parks
In addition to being in the top 25 schools with the highest four-year graduation rates, UVM was also ranked eighth in USA Today’s “10 Best Colleges to Study Health Professions,” according to an article from university communications. “The strength in the program, in my opinion, comes from the clinical strength,” said Dr. Rosemary Dale, chair of the nursing department. “The very rich relationship with the University of Vermont Medical Center, and its proximity to our campus, also enhance the entire experience,” she said.
Anthony Gemma
Think back to the last lecture you attended. How often were your eyes on your phone and not on the professor? “I won’t usually check my phone if it’s a small class, but I will check it if I get messages or Snapchats year Mike Werner said. “I mainly use it to communicate.” Eighty-three percent of college students in America now own a smartphone, an 11 percent increase from the previous year, according to insidehighered.com. “I don’t use my phone as a time-waster in class, but it does distract me from learning,” Werner said in regard to whether or not his phone gaged in lecture classes. First-year Harly Pelletier had similar thoughts. “I usually just check it for the time or messages” Pelletier said. Smartphones have the potential to be used for much more than just time wasting, as 82 percent of college students report using their smartphone for school-related tasks, according to onlinedegrees.org. Graduate student and chemistry teaching assistant Jenna Taft said it is a frustrating experience to lecture
JEN RAMIREZ The Vermont Cynic
Students use their smartphones during an economics lecture April 9. to students while they are on their phones. But Taft said she doesn’t have a problem with students using them during lab. As for prohibiting phone use, Taft said she doesn’t think banning phones dur“I wouldn’t set a rule on it,” Taft said. “If the student feels ca-
pable enough with the material to go on their phone, I would rather have them texting than distracting other students in lab.” But when a student who is struggling in class is on their phone, Taft said that is a bit more frustrating. “But I wouldn’t set a rule over it,” she said.
ARTS
Location of SpringFest 2016 remains cloudy Natalie Williams
push for it to be an outdoor space just because it provides more of an opportunity for
SpringFest 2015 will be the last one ever held on the Chit-
said. “A gym show is very dif-
and a replacement location has yet to be determined. Due to the upcoming deconstruction of new dorms behind the library and the expansion of the medical center, the location of SpringFest 2016 will have to change. Senior Katherine Ashmore said she thinks SpringFest should relocate to the Davis Center green because of its central location. “I feel like people are less likely to go if it is at the SheraAshmore said. “They would have to plan ahead, so attendance would Queena Hoang, assistant director of campus programs for Student Life said one likely option is in a parking lot behind the Sheraton Hotel.
sound is not as great and the gym is not the best place to The potential new location also faces restrictions based on space and proximity to city residents because of the noise a concert produces, she said. “A lot of times that’s why the redstone green is out of the “There are so many neighbors in that area that would ALEXA ALGIOS The Vermont Cynic Students gather on the Chittenden Buckham Wills green for SpringFest 2012. UVM’s Program Board is “It’s a nice open space
There would also be the challenge of getting students to the event, which would most
likely have to be done by shuttle and would cost extra money, Hoang said. “Another possibility that I am not too excited about “It would be really hard to
still discussing additional location options such as an athletic
No matter where SpringFest 2016 is held, the goal is to maintain the 4,500 student caas the beer garden, food trucks and water dispensers, she said. “The goal is to keep it as consistent with what we’ve been able to provide the stu-
they want it to be outside.
Tolkien fans turn up like Hobbits Raf Santos Arts Columnist
“Furious 7” rating:
Cliché sequel sells action Colin Kamphuis Arts Columnist
that provides a thoughtful experience and leaves a lasting mark on the viewer, you should keep looking. If, however, you’re looking for a two-hour escapist movie full of beautiful women, even more beautiful cars and excessive violence, then look no further. Toretto, played by Vin Diesel, and his crew become the prey of a vengeful brother, Deckard Shaw, played by Jason Statham. A master assassin, Shaw appears to be the greatest foe have faced yet. However, with the help of some shady new CIA friends, Dom and the gang more vigor than he expected.
audience is visually assaulted with endless car chases and action sequences. They could also say that it’s awesome. Rock wielding a Gatling gun sports car is jumped from one building to another? There is nothing wrong appeal to our crude movie tastes. Anyone who has experienced the cheap drive-in horror movie or silly rom-com can attest that we’re not always in the mood to participate in a heavy cinematic experience. Some of the best movies that we all love are also the hardest to watch repeatedly. Movies can be silly and excessive and still be fun and entertaining. All of our guilty pleasures violence, sex and heart-pounding action sequences. This has been the hallmark of the last six “Fast and Furithe latest sequel.
that the producers have thrown caution to the wind and are trying to shove as many action The Cynic
fayette April 10-12. The three-day gathering gave students, professors, Tolkien enthusiasts and anyone else a chance to be immersed in the fantasy world created by Tolkien. The focus of the conference changes each year, allowing the club to explore a wide variety of themes within Tolkien’s works. This year the conference was centered on medieval verse narratives.
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I just came here so I could learn more about all this because I honestly know nothing at all Bradley Dopp Sophomore
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Illustration by OMAR AL-AGOUZ
Lafayette Hall was taken over by creatures of Middleearth this weekend. The 12th annual Tolkien in Vermont Conference, put on by
Attendees recited their favorite passages or poems and sang songs. It really felt as though you were in Middleearth. The conference also featured a group of panelists made
CODIE COTTRELL The Vermont Cynic Tolkien at the 12th annual Tolkien conference held in Lafayette Hall April 11.
up of students, professors and lecturers from various colleges and universities. Panelists read from their very own written papers on topics they’ve chosen that deal with the theme of medieval verse narratives. Panelists such as junior Anika Gillwald explored their
to party like the hobbits, complete with food and drink (though there was no ale, as it is an on-campus event). The conference wasn’t limited to Tolkien know-it-alls, however. “I just came here so I can learn more about all this because I honestly know noth-
themes of the series. “I’m going to speak on the empowerment of the female characters within the ‘Lord of The Rings’ book trilogy and also speak on the recently re-
Dopp said. The Tolkien festival was books.
said. Springle-Ring. It was a chance
The Cynic
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LYDIA KOERNER The Vermont Cynic
Singer returns to Burly with new energy nal Kitchen April 6. Lady Lamb is the name of Aly Spaltro’s musical project which started with Spaltro writing, recording and playing all the parts. Spaltro said she self-re-
Liam Hughes Arts Columnist
A show that left more beer on the ground than in cups continues to ring viewers ears. Those were the two words TJ Metcalfe, bassist of Lady Lamb, chose to describe their energetic performance at Sig-
Her touring band is a threepiece group with Spaltro on guitar and vocals and banjo, Derek Gierhan on drums and
TJ Metcalfe on bass and keys. Spaltro spilled her heart for over an hour, playing her guitar with the irreverent intensity of classic rock, while singing her lyrically-dense tunes that sometimes seem like musical odysseys. At the height of the performance, Spaltro had Metcalfe and Gierhan step back while she performed solo for a few songs. The moment was powerfully personal, and there was
a stillness as everyone silently admired her unaccompanied talent. Since Lady Lamb’s show at Higher Ground last year as an opening act, there has been a notable evolution between performances. They played great last year, but there was a certain energy that captured everyone this time around. It might have something to do with the recent steam she’s picked up after the release of
her second studio album “Afearly March. Her album was recently featured in a Rolling Stone article which has probably given and recognition. Lady Lamb’s third stop in their roughly 50-show tour.
The Cynic
Rock takes the funky side drickson said. “Improvising
Josh Holz
UVM students going to Nectar’s this week should expect funk. The Fritz will be performing at Nectar’s in downtown part of their spring tour. The Fritz’s website describes their genre as “funk “It’s an interesting combi-
is
tricking
he said. eryone in the band, Hendricksongwriting, he said everyone adds something. Hendrickson said he would describe their sound as a rock band that plays funk. “Some of our songs sound
The band consists of Jamie Hendrickson on guitar, Jamar Michael Tillis on drums and
“
Years of playing and working with other bands have let Hendrickson said.
We try not to stray too far from music people can dance to Jamie Hendrickson
“
change student Gorka Garde Inchausti said. “Seeing concerts is a way of coming out of The band makes it a goal to warm the crowd up. Hendrickson said the crowd’s energy is a big part of their concerts. from music people can dance
Improvisation is a way of being creative while putting on a show the crowd likes, Hen-
said. All of the band’s members started as music students at Jacksonville University, Hendrickson said. They moved to Asheville, North Carolina together and formed The Fritz. was an ambitious thing to do, As advice to music students, Hendrickson said not to be afraid to do something “I turned down better gigs for a few years in Florida to
PHOTO FROM RAPHAEL GUALAZZI’S FACEBOOK
International pianist to tune up UVM is that he is a very talented piano player, he’s classically a very good vocalist; he sings said. and he’s a very talented song Italian singer and songwriter Raphael Gualazzi will be playing a free show at Southwick Music Recital Hall, 7 p.m. April 16. The concert is being put on
Ferraris said that Gualazzi’s music appeals to college-aged audiences because it is original but also draws on a wide array of musical styles. “His music is very sophis-
“In the concert committee, we’re always looking for new
music but the level of sophistication and musicianship is
said. Ganz is a member of the
“Anything worth doing is pretHaving the same group of people to play with is a magical thing, Hendrickson said. van, going to a new city, making new friends and playing
“My goal was to bring all the skills that I was learning at the conservatory into this
he said. ate artist and musical partner of Gualazzi, said Gualazzi has a very wide appeal, but still offers diverse sounds. “The thing about Raphael
in love with the piano as an instrument when he was 9 years old, and began studying at a conservatory soon after. He studied classical music for eight years. He said he later discovered jazz and blues and struggled to learn and incorporate the new sounds into his own music.
cause] we had to learn [jazz] by he said. Gualazzi said he prefers to sic rather than staying with what is familiar. “There are some artists, and once they understand that this coat works they will repeat Gualazzi said what he loves most about jazz as a genre is the freedom and wisdom that accompany it. “[In jazz] you can get your freedom but you also have to be responsible for your ac-
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The illegal art form Graffiti artists open up about their culture and its place in society Sandi Omanovic
where such activities could take paint in his friend’s garage and painting some walls, Dot said he was hooked.
partment “will continue to investiand make the appropriate court [or]
remain
anonymous,
The alternative justice program
if it is not on other people’s property. “It may sound negative, but it is
Center is a pre-charge program similar to court diversion, said Jocelyn Dubuque, the restorative justice coordinator. “They meet with community members, and together the group comes up with a way that this individual may, in a meaningful way, restore the
there said. “It’s not something I can just stop. I’ve tried to stop. It’s an addiction, it’s art. It’s a bad hobby, but it’s a Dot became addicted to the feeling he received from
you’re out there and you’re alone is silent; you feel like everything is troduced Dot to other forms of art such as abstract form, marble carving, clay and photography, but graf-
“
“If they were caught tagging and feel that they didn’t have another venue to express themselves, there is a way for them to directly make amends
To fully evolve graffiti as a form of art, there would need to be a space where such activities could take place Lt. Shawn Burke
his core art style. “I don’t look it as defacing someit as I’m painting a canvas. The back of trucks, everything, and I know it’s Getting caught didn’t scare him but Dot still believes there should be repercussions for his actions. he said. “That’s the risk you take, better be ready to accept the consequencpolice department said he appreciates as it applies to lawful activity. of art, there would need to be a space
“
“It’s just be-
It’s not something I can just stop. I’ve tried to stop. It’s an addiction, it’s art Dot
“I got in trouble painting walls, and here I am painting walls for my comDubuque said, referring to a After the program, Siriwayo said past mural projhe was still interested in art, and ect. The proj- spent most of his class time sketching ect helped re- instead of taking notes. His geometry store a property teacher motivated him to organize his owner’s fence paintings into a gallery show. Siriwayo said he was reluctant at
ooski Street that was commonly tagged. The art show artist but eventually agreed. “I remember my parents showing fence was decorated with several murals created by participants of In his eyes, the art show was a sucthe program. cess because he was able to sell a few “That was the thought process beof his canvases. The experience made him think this into a positive and to also let tagabout it in a professional matter, he showcases 12 artists live painting their gers know that there is another place for them to put their artwork that is said. actually started as an idea the craft that, but how can I use this knowledge school had initially, and they proposed it to us as a way to bring the ists to contact him to coordinate more that I already have and make it some- street-style art to a more controlled mural projects in the area. Realizing his desire in a career in “[A mural] that people can apprecithe art world Siriwayo displayed his Hat retail marketing manager. ate would be better than a blank slate Magic Hat was instantly interested somewhere and would prevent other work in several more shows including Gleason said. A former participant of the mural program, Makasi Siriwayo, used his experience in restorative justice and
“It’s a unique event, and it’s really cool for the artist to showcase their Sirwayo went to the Pratt Institute talent, but also it gives them an opportunity to raise some money and some in New York City. He now lives in Asheville, North Carolina, where he works as an art educator and commonly attends music festivals where he paints alongside some of his favorite artists. “Sometimes I sit down and think about where I’ve been and where I wayo said about painting next to artists such as Skrillex and Nightmare on val hosted at the Magic Hat brewery,
Half of the proceeds from the canvas sales go to the artist and the other half go to the Shelburne Community School, Gleason said. “This event is a great stepping stone for going to the next level and getting into a more legitimate and lefestival is Aug 1.
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2015
Weekend in
Review The sunshine brought students outside across campus this weekend. Photos by IJ Idrizaj and Lydia Koerner
(Top) Students kick off the Catamount Color Run April 11. (Right) Tie-dye shirts dry at Redstock April 11. (Third from bottom) A student slacklines on the Redstone green during Redstock (Second from bottom) Lizard Women perform during a set at Redstock. (Bottom) Students eat pizza and wings at Redstock (Bottom right) A Color Run participant runs through clouds of powder.
d i st r act i o n s
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2015
11
Phone apps for safety Safety is always a hot topic around Burlington. While it’s smart to walk in groups and stay alert, these phone apps can help you to stay safe when you are nervous or alone.
bSafe bSafe has the normal features, such as an SOS button you can press to alert friends that you are in danger, as well as a timer that will notify friends if you haven’t checked in by that time. One extra cool thing about bSafe is its fake call feature, which you can set up to call you after a specific amount of time to ensure that you have a way out of a sticky situation. bSafe also allows your friends to track you by GPS, to be sure that you never have to walk home alone again.
Kitestring Kitestring works through SMS texting, which can be useful for those of us without smart phones. You can register for Kitestring online, and after that can send it texts with a time for when you would like it to check on you. If you don’t check in by that time, Kitestring will send your emergency contacts a personalized message.
Bugle Bugle is advertised as a safety app for active people, and notifies your emergency contacts if you don’t check in when you are supposed to. With Bugle, you can input all sorts of activities, from walking the dog to hiking to biking, along with a personalized description of what you’ll be doing. If you don’t make it back by your check-in time, Bugle will notify your emergency contacts with all of that information.
By Laurel Saldinger
Safety Assistant Many Samsung Galaxy phones actually have a built in safety assistance feature that can be turned on under settings. This feature allows you to input emergency contacts, and turn on a “send help messages” setting. Now, if you click the power key three times in a row, a message will be sent to your emergency contacts with an approximate location, as well as audio and pictures taken from your front and rear camera if you so choose.
Circle of 6 The Circle of 6 app was designed for college students, and allows you to input six emergency contacts. Through Circle of 6, you can press one of three icons to alert your contacts and ask them to come pick you up, call you to check in or ask them for advice.
Hollaback Hollaback is an app that allows you to report any type of street harassment as well as the location. This allows you to see a map of other reports, so you know what areas you may want to avoid. Hollaback mainly used in bigger cities, so it’ll be useful if you are ever out traveling. Illustrations by CIERA LIBENSON
Puzzle of the week: Crossword DOWN 1. The remake of an old classic musical with Cameron Diaz playing the bad guy. 3. Last name of Oscar Winner, Jennifer. 4. Movie starring Nicole Kidman based off the TV series depicting the life of the witch Samantha and her mortal husband Darren. 6. First name of the star of “Pretty Woman”, aunt of Emma Roberts. 8. Star of “Forrest Gump” and “Cast Away” among others. 9. Shakespeare play turned into a film with Elizabeth Taylor. 11. Last name of the star of “Silence of the Lambs,” “Hannibal,” and “The Wolfman,” among many others. 12. First name of the star of “Elf,” “Step Brothers,” “Blades of Glory,” and many other comedies including the upcoming movie “Get Hard” with Kevin Hart. 14. Animated Disney musical starring Idina Menzel and Kristen Bell. 17. First movie of the series about Tony Stark.
ACROSS 2. 1994 movie directed by Quentin Tarantino about two mob hit men, a boxer, a gangster’s wife and a pair of diner bandits. 5. Real name of Captain America. 7. Young adult book series turned into blockbuster movie staring Theo James and Shailene Woodley. 8. The story of the adventures of Bilbo Baggins and the dwarves of the Lonely Mountain. 10. Name of the dragon in “Mulan” played by Eddie Murphy. 13. Movie filmed over 12 years starring Patricia Arquette, Ethan Hawke and Ellar Coltrane. 15. Real name of Superman. 16. Last name of the woman who starred in “Jupiter Ascending,” “Black Swan” and the TV show “That ‘70s Show” among others. 18. Last name of star of “American Sniper” and “Silver Linings Playbook.” 19. First name of the main character in “Pitch Perfect.” 20. Real name of the Hulk.
Opinion
It is past time for a pastime EDITORIAL BOARD Editor-in-Chief Cory Dawson cynic@uvm.edu 802-363-6696
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STAFF EDITORIAL Just east of campus sits a piece of history. It would be fair to assume that many students will never visit Centennial Field, let alone understand what it’s meant to generations of students and Vermonters alike. This isn’t just the school paper waxing poetic — ESPN says it’s one of the top 10 baseball locations in the country. It’s older than Fenway Park. And until 2009, it was the home of UVM baseball and softball. Despite a winning record and community support, the baseball and softball programs were cut due to budget restrictions. been waiting for their return. The Cynic will join a growing chorus of support for the return of baseball and softball to UVM. Both the SGA and the Vermont Legislature have passed resolutions urging UVM to reinstate baseball and softball. There is an active club team for both sports. Most importantly there is a
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community, organized by the Friends of UVM Baseball, made up of players, fans, students, alumni and residents that have stood and will continue to stand in support of the beloved game and the students who yearn to The issue, according to UVM,
was money. In 2009 the University needed to cut expenses, like many institutions and businesses during the depths of the recession. They faced heat from the community about their choice to cut vertically (eliminate programs all together as opposed
it to reinstate the programs — an advantage no other sport at UVM would have.
Senator Cotton’s letter wasn’t treason
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Illustration by ALYSSA HANDELMAN
to taking a little from every program). Yet, the frugality of their decisions in 2009 doesn’t seem to have continued. The Burlington Free Press wrote an editorial criticizing the 18 percent pay raise that Athletic Director Bob Corran received a few years after their austerity measures. Not too long after, thenPresident Fogel received a halfmillion severance package — an amount that was just under the varsity baseball budget for 2009. Yet now, according to the most recent athletic department budget, many sports have seen an increase in funding. Since baseball and softball were cut, the budget for athletic directors alone has gone from under a half-million to almost a million dollars. The Vermont Lake Monsters, the current caretakers of Centennial Field, have invested heavily in the would-be home of Vermont baseball and softball. This $2 million investment
Dissent, the left used to remind us — although coincidentally and solely during the George W. Bush administration — is the highest form of patriotism. Well, unless Barack Obama is president. Then you’re violating the Logan Act of 1799. If you haven’t heard of this bill, it’s likely because no one Even that won’t stop your Facebook friends from sharing a White House petition demanding that Sen. Tom Cotton and 46 of his fellow senators be tried for treason for writing an open letter to the Islamic Republic of Iran. Wherein, they asserted that the executive agreement regarding nuclear negotiations between the ayatollah and Obama was simply that — an executive agreement, and not an actual treaty, which, as the constitution states, requires a two-thirds majority in the Senate. Why is that treason? Well, states:
“Any citizen of the United States, wherever he may be, who, without authority of the United States, directly or indirectly commences or carries on any correspondence or intercourse with any foreign govthe measures or conduct of any foreign government or of any of-
to ratify a treaty, he requires two-thirds of the Senate’s approval to do so. Political science professor,
ing” the President in negotiations and “stand[ing] on the side of the ayatollahs” is as ridiculous as it is historically il-
ton Post op-ed — which, yes, I
et al. thought the Iran deal was too soft on the regime — so they weren’t exactly standing with them — and second, because, as we all know, and as the Left used to constantly remind us, dissent is the highest form of patriotism.
are about as intellectually sound and original as a Carlos Mencia routine — referred to the White House treason petition as “click-
It seems obvious, to anyone who actually believes that dissent is the highest form of patriotism, that senators are endowed with the authority of the United States, being, you know, elected officials
to any disputes or controversies with the United States, or to defeat the measures of the United title or imprisoned not more than three years, or both.” But it seems obvious, to anyone who actually believes that dissent is the highest form of patriotism, that senators are endowed with the authority of the United States, being, you know, provisions of Art. 2, Sec. 2 of the Constitution, which declares that, in order for the president
bait for liberals.” Yes, probably. But clickbait sells — and so does low-info politics —which is why Upworthy is the perfect, Frankensteinmonster-esque of the two, catering to angsty, progressive-ish 14-year-olds across the United States. Was Cotton’s letter a little of that same sort of attentionseeking political opportunism, too? Sure, but to assert it makes us look weak by saying, as Sen. Debbie Stabenow did, that it was an exercise in “undermin-
archaic legislation from 1799 — which really doesn’t even apply. One hears ad nauseam from Democrats that we need to adopt various economic and social policies from their party because, well, come on, man, it’s 2015. Eh, maybe not anymore. You shouldn’t disagree with your It’s 1799.
Joseph Brown is a junior political science major. He has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2012.
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to oppose the Vietnam War — which, if you think about it, “undermined” President Johnson — just in their dissent? Instead of discussing the merits of the actual Iran deal between the President and the leaders of Iran, the Left instead
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opinion
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2015
Blazing the route for democracy compliance. Indeed, an unjust law is no law at all. You do not have to smoke marijuana to protest this law. You just have to be part of a peaceful public gathering. Every day that passes with the marijuana ban is an injustice committed in our name. As democratic citizens, we have
Kevin Santamaria As April 20 approaches, thousands of people will publicly smoke marijuana. It is time for this annual display of civil disobedience to become a sustained political movement for social and economic justice. Marijuana is not illegal for health or moral pureness; it has been prohibited for political and economic purposes. This law is used to protect the profits of companies that love to advocate for free-markets while simultaneously using the state’s police powers to prevent competition from emerging. The hemp industry is worth an estimated $1 trillion market, but it would also change the nature of production in the economy. Hemp can be used to produce paper, fuel and fabrics, which would disrupt existing industries by introducing competition. When the marginalization of the medical marijuana industry prevents marijuana’s healing
Indeed, an unjust law is no law at all the responsibility to hold our
Illustration by ALYSSA HANDELMAN
qualities from being explored, in order to ensure pharmaceutithen something apart from human health is the priority. When criminalization of tarization the police force, the waste of billions of dollars in taxpayer money and terrorizing our communities, we should know we can allocate our resources better. When the war on weed has
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Europe’s Jews still face anti-Semitism This is a letter regarding
in the Atlantic, entitled “Should the Jews leave Europe?” Goldberg’s recent article takes the pulse of current political thought regarding antiSemitism in Europe. The situation for Jews in Europe, as I have previously written, is more openly violent now than it has been in nearly 70 years. It is so fraught with antiSemitism that many of Europe’s Jewish residents have decided to emigrate to Israel or to the United States out of fear for their property and lives. As the old and bitter say-
The situation in Europe, as I have previously written, is more openly violent now than it has been in nearly 70 years ing goes, in Jewish history, the pessimists who leave in times of trouble survive, and the optimists who remain often do not. But Goldberg’s article misses the point to the issues of anti-Semitism and question of the continued safety of Jews in Europe – not because he is wrong,
but because he does not go far enough. It is one of the responsibilities of legitimate government to establish and preserve safety for its citizens as best it is able: if European governments cannot, or will not, do so for their Jewish populations, that would imply a far greater issue than like outbreaks of violence. If European governments are too mired in navel-gazing nationalistic concerns to protect their national minorities, if, indeed, European governments will not step up to the plate and protect their minorities, Jewish or otherwise, Europe will not be safe for anyone; nor will there be any honor left in living there anyway. To their credit, multiple Western European government leaders have stated their intentions to protect their Jewish citizens. “France is your home,” the French president said in an address after the anti-Semitic attack on a Paris kosher supermarket. What is not yet clear is whether these words, and words like them, will lead to better policies, or if they are empty attempts to save face. Until then, the pessimists will leave and the optimists will stay, and Europe, and our world, will be the poorer for it. Sincerely, Julia Walsh, Class of 2016
caused drug cartels to emerge around the world and imprisoned millions of people, we need to declare this war over. The prohibition of pot enriches the special interest groups that fund our politicians’ election. Thus, the views of the majority of the population that support legalization are not being represented. To follow this law is an act of uncivil obedience — you are facilitating injustice through your
for they receive their legitimacy from our consent, and if we do not consent to their laws, they are not legitimate. The Declaration of Independence, the autonomy of India and the civil rights movement were a result of the public engaging in civil disobedience. So when April 20 fades away, do not put your bowls away — because when the sun shines April 21, it is the beginning of a social movement proclaiming peace with pot.
Kevin Santamaria is a senior political science and economics major. He has been writing for the Cynic since fall 2011.
On punk rock Joe Vautrin What do a 19th century German philosopher and a musical a “do it yourself” attitude have were both wrongly co-opted by the far right. philosopher of the Nazi Party, but if he had ever known that he would have most likely started to vomit uncontrollably. He hated racism, anti-Semitism and most of all the direction German culture was going in the late 19th century. As for punk rock, I believe the Dead Kennedy’s song “Nazi indication of the false association with far-right politics. The whole intertwining of punk and neo-Nazis starts with the early roots of punk, the origin of it all with the Sex Pistols and their Nazi-chic aesthetic. Their Nazi garb and insignia were purely for shock value and not to promote fascist ideology. This becomes immediately obvious to anyone who listens to their lyrics. Building on my original point, I believe the similarity between these two seemingly unrelated things demonstrates a darker side of populism in the social sphere. Punk rock’s emphasis of a
production makes it the populist movement of the counterculture world. Anyone can be a punk and make punk music. It’s the whole point of punk. It’s the essence of populist, reactionary sentiments; but opposition for the sake of opposition is dangerous. This harkens back to one of Nietzsche’s sayings: “Sometimes we remain true to a cause only because its opponents never cease to be insipid.” As with most of what he wrote, this statement is becoming more and more salient in our current political landscape. Populism is quickly becoming the political tool we use to address the stark problems our society faces today. Grassroots campaigns and social media networking are two notable examples. Too many of us students don the badges of socialism, libertarianism or other assorted political labels without being aware of the nature of our society’s problems. As history shows, not getting down to the real root of a problem can lead to catastrophic mistakes, like allowing ultraviolent morons whose entire world view is a misconception have a say in our future.
Joe Vautrin is a junior political science major. He has been writing for the Cynic since spring 2015.
13
Metrosexual group wants to join LGBT Modest Proposals by
Daltrey Burris BURLINGTON, VT— In the last few days, an unlikely group had expressed its outrage toward the LGBTQA association, short for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, queer and ally. The group, which was formed to provide support and protection for atypical sexualities and identities, now has a myriad of locations around the United States. However, their exclusivity has seemed to anger quite a few people. “I can’t believe I have nobody to turn to in this day and age. As a metrosexual, everyone thinks I’m gay anyways, and I don’t get any of the perks cal resident Jackson Green. “I’ve heard they even have free printing and refreshments!” Many others are starting to come out to the public and voice their opinions on the matter, including the de-facto leader of the metrosexual movement, Mason Banks. “People question my sexuality all the time, and it can get really hard to deal with. Just because I wear tight clothes, pronounce ‘Givenchy’ properly and frequent bodybuilding forums people assume that I’m gay, but I’m not. I’m only looking at pictures of other shirtless men to compare,” he his Japanese raw denim jeans. “Anyway, I think we deserve the same rights and hospitality that all the other sexualities are getting. It’s not like them, either. Our fathers are disappointed in us, too!”
“It’s not like we’re all that different from them, either. Our fathers are disappointed in us, too!” addressed Banks last night. “We can’t possibly allow any more groups in. It’s at total capacity. Could you imagine if we had to add another letter to our name? People hardly remember our title right now, and we only have a six-part acronym. Don’t be silly, silly.” Little headway has been made, but the movement for basic rights marches on in patent leather Chelsea boots. Daltrey Burris writes news satire for the Cynic. Burris is a junior psychology major. He has been writing for the Cynic since spring 2015.
Sports
Hockey fans drawn to intramurals both men and women. The mix of these leagues provides all levels and abilities the option to play in an environment they are capable and comfortable in, according to the
Nate Frieberg
Intramural hockey play began March 16 at Gutterson Fieldhouse. “Everyone just has such an enthusiasm and excitement to be at the rink playing,” said junior Joanna Nagle, an intramural hockey referee and lifelong hockey fan. “When everyone is this excited and happy to be there it
“
Everyone just has such an enthusiasm and excitement to be at the rink playing junior Joanna Nagle Intramural Hockey Official
enjoys refereeing all of them. The skill is great whether it is the men’s A players bringing the competition to greater levels or the other leagues where highlevel players are moving the puck around a bit more to get everyone involved in the game, Nagle said. Nagle’s only complaint about the league is a common one: she wishes the season was longer. Many teams only get to play prefer to play a season closer to eight, Nagle said. Junior Steven Ushakov, an intramural and club hockey player, has competed in several tramural department. He said his favorite part about the men’s A league is how competitive the hockey is. He noted how the teams in the league seem to be relatively
DAYNA WYCKOFF The Vermont Cynic Students and the referee line up for the faceoff in their intramural hockey game at Gutterson Fieldhouse April 13.
even in skill and often have close games. Ushakov also enjoys the corec league, citing how the atmosphere on the rink seems to change to a more for fun, carefree style of hockey. Ushakov recommends the addition of some media coverage of intramural games. He feels many students
would love to see things such as GoPro footage or in-game photos on the intramural hockey website. For some, intramural hockey provides an opportunity to reconnect with friends and get on the ice. Senior JP Benoit is currently in his fourth year of intramural hockey, and has played with the
same team for all four years. hockey enthusiasts are given the opportunity to create a team with their friends and compete against other student teams. UVM has a vast intramural hockey program ranging in skill levels. Levels of play include men’s A , men’s B and the league for
“
Nagle said she loves to see
Campus Rec website. To sign up, a team must have at least 6 players, including a goalie, according to the Campus Recreation website. “It’s great getting to play on the same team as all the kids I grew up playing against,” he said. “We’ve been on the same team every year for intramural hockey and have a blast every time.”
Swedish track athlete discusses his journey Zach Giroux
One UVM sprinter, hurdler and pole-vaulter has a one-track minset: work hard. Senior Martin Kallur hails from Falun, Sweden, where he attended Lugnetgymnasiet high school. He comes from an athletic family: his father played in the NHL for the New York Islanders and his two older twin-sisters are both Olympic-level hurdlers, according to UVM athletics. Kallur began his track career late, only getting serious about teenager. Before UVM, Kallur ran for the club team Falun IK, where he was the 2009 high school national champion in 110-meter hurdles, according to UVM athletics. Catamount, Kallur has beat the competition on the track and in the classroom, winning America East All-Conference and AllAcademic Team for both the indoor and outdoor seasons of 2013 and 2014. He recently won the Elite-18 America East award, which recognizes the conference’s athlete with the highest grade point average, according to UVM athlet-
ics.
“Martin is an exceptional student, and has been recognized as the top athlete-scholar in our sport,” head coach Matt Kallur has performed well on both race days and tests, “I think my best strength is that I’m very determined and goal driven,” Kallur said. “I really enjoy working hard and studying.” On Feb. 28 Kallur became the 2015 New England indoor champion in men’s heptathlon. that Kallur sets the bar high and is willing to go the distance. “I knew when I started recruiting Martin a few years ago that he was going to have the opportunity to be special for our intelligent, mature, experienced and most importantly, talented.” On race days, Kallur said that he is a perfectionist. “I have to have everything perfect from my jersey to my hair,” Kallur said. “I’m very meticulous, it has to be very precise.” With a large team, Kallur plays a leadership role for his younger teammates. “Martin has a very positive attitude and works hard to get better at something every day,”
tremendous role model for his teammates.” Kallur’s teammates respect his skill as a competitor and his attitude as an individual. “Martin is the kind of teammate that will pick you up when you’re feeling down and will ask about your races before his,” junior sprinter Erik Buser said. “One of the nicest guys I know and one of the hardest working on the track and in school.” The Sweden native realizes there is still more work to do. Kallur has his sights set on level as both a season and career goal. “I want to be remembered as someone who gave it their all,” Kallur said “I always push myself to the limits.” UVM traveled to Princeton University April 11, where both the men’s and women’s team placed third.
FUN FACTS: 1. Favorite Music: Rotondi (Swedish House Music)
2. Favorite Meal: “Anything that doesn’t slow me down,” Kallur said.
3. Superstitions: Numbers.”When I see numbers throughout the day, I also feel like they’re going to be my race times and scores.” He said.
WALKER SULTZBACH The Vermont Cynic Senior Martin Kallur poses for a picture at the Patrick Gymnasium April 7. Kallur hurdles, pole vaults and sprints for the Track and Field team. Kallur is originally from Sweden and comes from a family of competitive athletes.
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2015
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Association hosts a colorful fundraiser tor of operations for UVM Rescue, headed UVM Rescue’s fun-
David Brandt
UVM Rescue consists of about 20 undergraduate volunteer and “serves as an advanced life support ambulance for UVM and the greater Chittenden County area,” Barnum said. “The organization is currently fundraising to build new headquarters, which will cost $1.4 million, Barnum said. “Rescue’s “revenue comes solely from billing [its] patients.” Another participant was the UVM Cancer Center, which is a
The Student Alumni Association held a new event when it Color Run April 11. Senior Charles Martin, an ability, expressed his organization’s interest in the Color Run. “The Catamount Color Run will be a creative, interactive way to get students more connected with programs on camsaid. The run took place around redstone campus from 5-7 p.m. During the event colored powder was thrown at the runners by volunteers, according to the SAA. on-campus organizations: the UVM Cancer Center, UVM Resthe Women’s Center and Volunteers in Action, according to the SAA Facebook page. The SAA hosts annual events such as Winter Ball and Senior Week and recently decided to host the Catamount Color Run. “fun incentive to give,” SAA Director of Philanthropy Samantha Ryea said. Ryea, a sophomore ambassador for SAA, helped put torestructure the senior class gift
IJ IDRIZAJ The Vermont Cynic
program. The SAA previously relied solely on the “What Shaped You?” campaign, which encouraged seniors to donate to whichever program or organization “shaped them,” Ryea said. “It’s been fairly successful, but we found that because the donations were so spread out,
said. “We wanted to narrow the donations into a more condensed number of groups,” she said. On National Philanthropy Day last November, the SAA began that process. “We gave out My Little Cupcakes and we asked students to -
zations, out of a list of around 20, they’d be most willing to give to,” she said. “From that groups.” Representatives from the ganizations and their fundraising needs in a promotional video made by the SAA. Junior Mike Barnum, direc-
cancer center and comprised of more than 120 scientists and physicians, according to the center’s website. Junior Claire Wiggin from the Women’s Center also looked forward to the new event. “We’re really excited to be a part of this color run and get our name out there,” Wiggin said in the SAA promotional video. “Not all of our clubs get budgets from SGA… Donations would be really helpful for us to keep continuing our mission of helping the UVM community,” Volunteers in Action Director senior Sarah Richardson said. Participants in the run had the opportunity to donate to any as well as any other program or department on campus.
Club soccer makes do with limited resources The men’s soccer club’s goal is to enjoy the game and grow as players and individuals, senior goalkeeper and club captain Alex Perkins said. Club Sports Coordinator Leon Lifschutz said that the club used to be a part of a New England league, but now they play in Region I of a National League, which belongs to the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association. The team’s objective, Lifschutz said, is to make the regionals each season, which they have been consistent in achieving during his eight years in the position. ences between club and varsity soccer, such as the level of commitment required and available resources, Lifschutz said. “It gives people more time to do other things and focus on school,” Perkins said. “But it also maintains that competitive aspect that we like.” UVM funds all SGA recognized club sports, including men’s soccer, but Perkins said they also had to organize several fundraisers. These fundraisers have usually been soccer-related, like FIFA video game tournaments and 3-on-3 soccer tournaments. Other funding has come from playing against local clubs,
as well as donations from alumni. These funds have helped the team go from playing no games just three years ago, to playing four games this season, Perkins said. Although club soccer has fewer resources such as space for practice and a limited number of games, its members are making the most of this experience, Lifschutz said. Junior center-back Alex Romac recalls his favorite moment on the team.
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We’re a group of competitive soccer players who love playing soccer Sam Raszka Junior
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Eribert Volaj
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an eight-hour trip to Pennsylvania, only about two and a half months after college had started.” Romac said. “We spent a lot of time as a team, and we played
a bunch of good teams.” The fan turnout is not necessarily the same as it is for the varsity team. Both Perkins and Romac believe that they draw a good number of fans, and more would be even better, they say. “I would like to see the fan base grow,” junior left-back Dave Landay said. “It would be cool to see as many people come to our games as they do to varsity games. But it doesn’t really matter to me. Honestly, I just like playing.” being a club player rather than varsity, Lifschutz said. “Flexibility and student leadership are two of the biggest advantages club players have when compared to varsity athletes,” he said. Because varsity sports require a greater time commitment, many athletes choose club sports. This allows them to get involved in more activities, he said. Leadership skills are also improved, as club athletes make many decisions themselves and organize games and events, Perkins said. In the end, though, the love of the sport is what brings the club together. “We’re a group of competitive soccer players who love playing soccer,” senior forward Sam Raszka said.
IJ IDRIZAJ The Vermont Cynic (Left) Senior Parker Cornbrooks and senior Ezra Mount-Finette, members of the UVM club soccer team, practice their footwork at Virtue Field April 12.
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15, 2015
Several NCAA finalists look to the NBA draft Armin Milak Sports Columnist
As an avid basketball fan, I was pushing for the Kentucky ness” and make history with a 40-0 record. As everyone knows though, March Madness never ends up exactly how you envision. Instead, other history was made, as the Duke University Blue Devils under coach Mike Krzyzewski took home the NCAA national championship tory. The same question arises at the end of every college basketball season: What’s next for the best players in the country? Go pro or stay at school for another chance at the Final Four? Kentucky is always at the center of this conversation, as they are known for bringing in the best high school players year after year. Four Wildcats are projected summers NBA draft, including Karl-Anthony Towns, Willie Cauley-Stein, Trey Lyles and Devin Booker, according to ES-
PN’s Chad Ford. The highlight is Towns, who is projected by Ford to be the Towns’ big 6-foot-11 frame, shot blocking and ability to score in the paint is almost a sure bet to translate well in the NBA.
The majority forgo their schools for their life-long dreams of being players in the NBA. And I don’t blame them The next projected pick in the draft is no other than Duke’s standout center Jahlil Okafor. Scoring, rebounding, defending – he can do it all, and it showed with the way he carried Duke throughout the tournament. Another standout from the small-forward Justice Winslow. He displayed his versatility in the small forward position, as well as his potential to score the ball in one-on-one situations.
PHOTO COURTESY OF JONATHAN KRUEGER Willie Cauley-Stein (second from right) of the Kentucky Wildcats gathers the team during second half of the Elite 8 of the 2015 NCAA men’s basketball tournament. Cauley-Stein is expected to be a top pick in the upcoming NBA draft.
The NBA draft has a lottery system using numbered ping-pong balls where the 14 chance at winning the draft’s Blog Nation. This year the Minnesota Timberwolves have the best
pick. They have a 22.5 percent chance, according to ESPN. The players still have time to decide what to do, but the reality is that the majority forgo their schools for their lifelong dreams of being players in the NBA. And I don’t blame them.
The 2015 NBA draft will take place June 25 in New York City.
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