Vassar College L'oughkeepsie, NY

TheMiscellanyNews

Vassar College l'oughkeepsie, NY

December Volume CXLIV | Issue n Since 1866 | miscellanynews.com 9,2010

Interest in Faculty minicourse awarded program NSF grants renewed Chelsea Peterson-Salahuddin Reporter

National Science Foun- Caitlin Clevenger News Editor Thedation (NSF) announced

Wednesday, Dec. I its decision to Atthe end of Spring Break, Vas- award five Vassar science profes- xxsar students may have the op- at sors and theircolleagues peer in- tion to participate in a new activity stitutions $2.7 million to help fund with a familiarformat. The Vassar their research projects, $313,400 Student Association (VSA) and the of which is solely going to fund CampUt ActivitiesOffice are con- research carried out by Vassar's sidering a trialprogram ofstudent- professors. The foundation annu- led courses following the model of ally awards $6.9 billionin research mini-courses. funding, and operates as the main In the past, minicourses were a fiscal source for approximately 20 non-credit extracurricular activity percent of all federally funded re- offeredeach spring.Students could search in American colleges and register for mini-courses through universities across several aca- the Campus Activities office and demic fields. attendclass once a week for four to The National Science Founda- six weeks, learning anything from tion has been a longtime support- sushi-making to poker strategy. er to Vassar College. Since 2005, The mini-courses could be taught Vassar's science professors have by students, faculty or staff, with received $10.5 million in research or without a fee. However, mini- addition, earlier this fall areon shifts. and SecurityDonald Marsalaattended the grants. In courses were discontinued for the Above, officers from Safety and Security their Directorof Safety Foundation Council where he critical regarding the role of Safety and Security on the campus. the National Science 2009-2010 academic year, after latest VSA meeting, fielded questions awarded Vassar College $1.2 million former Assistant Director of Cam- to train and support mathematics pus Activities Megan Habermann, and science teachers in high-need who had the fields supervised program, and Safety Security questions to school districts and $1.6 million resigned and her position was left the scientific in- er, adding, asking advance College's unfilled. Another factor leading to MitchellGilburne shared and discussed. Thequestions, "We're everybody Features Editor because frastructure. the discontinuation ofmini-cours- often criticalas well as inquisitive, not to allow piggybacking who will and covered the of and Se- that's how it happens almost every The Vassar professors was the controversy surround- of Safety Security scope Safety be the direct beneficiaries of the events single He continued, "Don't ingies the "Language of Ladies" mini- DirectorDonald Marsala appeared at the curity's duties and spanning time." most recent are Assistant which Student Association (VSA) the entire semester. confront anybody. If you see some- grants course in thespring of2009, Vassar call us Professor of Science on In to the most recent in- one suspicious in the dorm, Computer was cancelledafter concerns about council meeting Sunday, Dec. 3 regards Assistant Profes- com- cident of sexual assault on campus, and we'llcheck him out. We ask your Marc Smith, gender and ethnic stereotypes in for a forum in whichquestions, sor of Alison Marsala credited student to be our and ears. Chemistry Spodek the mini-course's subject matter ments and concerns ofcouncilmem- reports help eyes on Keimowitz, and Assistant Profes- were withthe apprehension of the offend- See SECURITY page7 See MBVICOURSE on page4 bers and their constituents sors of Biology Lynn Christenson, Jodi Schwarz and Erica Crespi.

Collectively, the money awarded Faculty opinions vary will be used to fund wide-range research projects within their respective fields. on course policy Smith and his colleague, Tiffani repeat Williams, assistant professor of

A&M Mary Huber alize that this policy would really Computer Science at Texas Reporter funds to only effect outliers, because very University, will use the

work on a entitled "Novel proposal to change Vas- few students at Vassar would ever project for Anewsar's course-repeat policy find themselves in this situation," Techniques Understanding has divided faculty into opposing See REPEAT on page 6 See SCIENCE on page4

camps. The policy, which would

allow students to retake a course

in which they received a D dur-

ing their first three semesters, has evoked strong opinions from fac- ultymembers.

Dean of Freshman Benjamin

Lotto explained in an e-mailed

statement that he brought the idea

before the Committee on Curricu-

(CCP) after a Director of the Writing Center Lee Rumbarger, pictured above, will be leav- lar Policy disturbing

witha freshman."This ing the position she has held since 2006 at the end of the fall semester. conversation freshman had been doing D workin

a ioo-level course, and the instruc- Rumbarger departing tor offered to give the student an F so that the student could retake the

course and master the material be- Center she transformed fore moving on to the next course. I felt quite uncomfortable that the

to thiscourse to AngelaAiuto three-year tenureas director. opportunity repeat

Senior Editor the student's was "We are really terribly sorry to improve learning the student's As students work furiously to- lose Lee Rumbarger," explained tied to manipulating wrote Lotto. wards a month-long break from Vas- MollyShanley, director of the Learn- grade," Center and Research Center The most common complaint sar, Director of the Writing ing, Teaching,

which the the new is that it Lee Rumbarger is facing a decidedly (LTRC), encompasses against policy different kind of departure. Rum- Writing Center. "If you ever come [to coddles students, allowing them to A bridal on Main Street dresses for the See for a bad store up holidays. page barger will be moving to England at the Writing Center]between 3 and 5 avoidresponsibility grade. 12 and at Vassar and in and Ire- for holidaytips suggestions Poughkeepsie. the end of the semester, ending her See RUMBARGER on page 20 "A group ofdiverse faculty

Inside this issue

Coach The College's s\ Thoughts on f\ A Cox set to lead 8 grand birthday £ Qatar and the tennis features approaches sports 2022 World Cup sports Vassar December 9,2010 2 grtjeiflisceiumpjletos

Editor in Chief Molly Turpin

Senior Editor Angela Aiuto

ContributingEditor Matthew Brock

Lillian Reuman

Lila Teeters

News Caitlin Clevenger Aashim Usgaonkar Features Mitchell Gilburne Opinions Joshua Rosen Juan Thompson Humor & Satire Alanna Okun Arts Rachael BorntJ

ErikLorenzsonn

Sports AndyMarmer Design Eric Estes Copy Gretchen Maslin Photography Juliana Halpert semi- Photo of the Week: Students read Contrast's latest issue, which it unveiled at a party in the Rose Parlor on Dec. 7. The magazine publishes Online Carrie Hojnicki

the own fashion annually. Theirnext issue, due out in the spring semester; is to be Sesquicentennial themed with content about College's history. Social Media Marie Dugo

Miscellany News Staff Editorial Assistant Features MatthewBock Danielle Gensburg deserve from College Assistant Sports Corey Cohn Study drugs recognition AssistantCopy Sammy Creath Stephen Loder Lack on Assistant Photo Madeline Zappala ofinformationimpedes dialogue subject Crossword Editor Jonathan Garfinkel Benard Reporters Vee honors,fellowships) use in College Regulations, the abuse of study properly prescribed and adminis- accomplishments (grades, Adam Buchsbaum on academic in- stimulant, over other forms of accomplishments." In this drugs may have implications Whentered, Adderall, a powerful Danielle Bukowski day and students are extremely con- tegrity. However, given the growing prevalence is widely accepted as an effective medication age, many Cohn Vas- Corey cerned about well. it is of on college campuses, the for the treatment of learning differences such performing Therefore, study drugs Mary Huber the mass of sar administration needs to update itspolicies as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder no surprise—given weighted-final Evan Lester semester extracur- to avoid a situation like Wesleyan's, but first (ADHD). However, Adderall is frequently mis- assignments, end of the make an ShrutiManian ricular and stress that we it has to the data necessary to used by stressed students—without a prescrip- obligations holiday gather KristineOlson are in informed decision. tion—who hope to gain an academic edge. are all experiencing—if study drugs high this demand students. In sum, we propose that the administration Connor O'Neill When used as a "study drug" in manner, among college at a or research the extent of usage Vas- Chelsea Peterson- we must call into question the ethical and legal However, taking study drug illegally study drug and more than the sar College, as well as its implications, Salahuddin issues raised by this situation. Furthermore, taking prescribed dosage may The News of offer an unfair to the students who respond accordingly. Miscellany Wilson Piatt one may also consider the abuse prescrip- advantage on the ba- as choose them. In essence, the condemns the abuse of study only tion drugs to gain an academic advantage practice may Joseph Rearick use that their use without a is il- cheating. threaten academic integrity just as steroid sis prescription Dave Rosenkranz the ethics of the merits sure confounds the world. In what could be- but using drug Right now, no one is how many Vassar sports legal, JillianScharr could a discussionbeyond its legality. It be that students abuse Adderall and otherstudy drugs come a slippery slope, individuals pro- may Columnists MichaelMestitz do indeed an unfair advan- called into duce the same unnatural effect that leads to study drugs grant (see "Use of'study drugs' question," Connor O'Neill to students them or it Government's 2009 "Na- this advantage. For instance, some tage procuring illegally, 12.2.10). The Federal perceived Emil Ostrovski without have no effect at all. Even ifit does bestow tional on Use and Health," cites students are better able to function may Survey Drug Sussman ad- Andy and can therefore an such an it is important for the that 6.3% of students use psychotherapeutic sleep "pull all-nighter," advantage,

to work on ministrationto determine if and how it is dif- drugs without a prescription and notes that gaining extra time assignments. ChristieChea as a needs to determine ferent from other aids, such as caffeine. Photographers this statistics indicates a significant increase Vassar College whole study Katie dc Heras even where this distinction lies. For students, Of course, the misuse of any psychoactive since 2002. However, this statistic may many to concerns, so Carlos Hernandez eaffeinated stimulants arc the drug can lead serious health under represent the true number of students legal only thing ethical concerns the must en- Saunders There- for an extra edge. Where does one beyond College Jared usingstudy drugs on college campuses. necessary sure that students are aware of the health and Eric fore, it would be responsible for the College to draw the line? Schuman legal risks associated with the consumption of conduct Vassar-specific research to determine Based on the issue of pure legality, it is use. consume Addorall without or in ex- drugs beyond their intended the extent of Adderall use and then use this wrong to prescription not not To of study drug abuse information to address the issue on campus. cess of a prescription. However, it is is ignore any prevalence on with LETTERS POLICY to is to risky behavior toxic Anecdotally, evidence abounds regarding the enough say that it is simply illegal because ignore par Vie MiscellanyNews Is Vassar College's weekly open forum that a ba- it is abused of drinking. use of the drug, but hardly provides clearly being regardless legality; and Tor discussion of campus, local and national Issues, recent We therefore that the administra- and from sis for substantive discussion. It is time to take the administration has to take action. A propose welcomes letters opinions submissions all readers.Utters to the Editor should not exceed 450 words, and in media attention a withthe student for Into account the role that these drugs play Wesleyan University case caught open dialogue body they usuallyrespond to a particularitem or debate from the the dual of information about after a to gaining articles are Students' academic lives. tion senior compared "study drugs" purpose previous week's issue. Opinions longer pieces, ROO and take the of a column. No seemed likea blatant case the use on and for up to words, form longer As we are all in the midstof final exams and In what illegal study drug campus plagiarism. article be If letter or opinions may printed anonymously. the student's class information about the it is for students to look for an of nearly half of disseminating potential in e-mail mttctPvauar.edu papers, easy op- cheating, you are interested contributing, admitted in associated with its use. As social pres- tion lo minimizetheir workload and maximize to illegally taking "study drugs" dangers

a take-home sures and academic expectations evolve, the their productivity. It is possible that the use order to complete 24-hour exam, on 28. to ensure that students are able of is indicative of a atmo- The Hartford Courant Oct College ought The Editorial holds at 9 study drugs general reported Board weekly meetings everySunday not to strike a healthy balance ofacademic integri- In the Rose Parlor, All members of the Vassarcommuni- sphere of academic and extracurricular pres- Although study drug usage is specifically p.m. Interested the staff In critiqueof ty In joining newspaper's or a honor code, the non- and personal success, and to do so they must sure. As cited the Committee on Inclusion in Wesleyan's ty Issue Tic News is not by pinpointed the current are welcome. Miscellany re- and Excellence*! cultural Audit. "There is also academic code ofconduct refers to the illegal- address the use ofstudy drugs on campus. sponsible for the views presented In the Opinions pages The staffeditorial la theonly articlewhichreflects theopin- of the Vassar weekly tension between the of balance and ity process. College Regulations, ofthe News fa pursuit ion EditorialBoard. the Miscellany published at not to —The StaffKditarial the opinions students ofVassar The News wcllheing, and formal markers of success. Stu- likewise, do refer study drugs except reflects of weekly by the College. Miuellany office Islocated in Center Room 303, Vassar College. of least two thirds the iH-memher College - under the broader context drugs. of Miscellany dents sense that the college in its preoccupa- illegal News EditorialHoard. tion with rank and rankings—prizes academic Though it is appropriate to address illicit drug

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE NEWS 3 December 9.2010

Committee useofsustainabilityfunddebates VSA finds

JoeyRearick students favor Reporter

its contract with the College was Whenrenewed three Aramark, the years ago, policy that all cam- repeat food services company supplies restaurants, agreed to earmark $3,000 per pus AashimUsgaonkar to be used toward efforts year sustainability News Editor for five years. The money is intended to help month, the Committee on Curricular realize an environmentally-conscious project LastPolicy (CCP) endorsed I course-retake entailsno instructions on campus,but specific policy that would allow students to repeat a as to how its resources should be utilized. course in which receive a grade of'D' or several they Now, with $9,000 at their disposal, lower (See "CCP passes new course repeat student groups and administrators are close policy," ii.ii.io>. The policy made its way to as to how that to reaching a decision money the Vassar Student Association (VSA) Coun- should be spent. cil, which unanimously endorsed it on Sun- Deliberations regarding the use of the day, Dec. 4. fund have involved input from a wide range The endorsement comes on the heels of Vassar of sources, including the Greens, a a survey sent out by VSA President Mathcw student organization dedicated to promoting Leonard '11 in an e-mail to the student body. sustainability on campus. The Vassar Student The VSA, according to Leonard, "would like Association (VSA) Executive Board and the issue a statement on this from the have to policy College Committee on Sustainability student body to the faculty" based on stu- also consulted with Senior Director of Cam- dents' responses. Maureen about uses pus Dining King possible Council endorsed our memoran- the Food and "I'm glad for the money, but ultimately dum, since it was based entirely on a survey Dining Implementation Committee (FDIC) that was madeavailable to allstudents," wrote will decide which project receives funding. VSA Vice President for Academics Laura Rik- Through dialogue that has spanned the first er 'n. "I think it's only appropriate that Coun- three years of Aramark's commitment, three cil endorsed the memorandum, since we are options have emerged from the discussion be- obviously representatives ofour constituents, tween the above governing bodies as leading who are (according to the survey) largely in candidates. favor of the policy." "We wanted it to have something to do Ofthe 121 students who voted, 87.6 percent withdining," said King, a leading voiceon the said that they support the policy. Students FDIC. contract three from all academicdivisions voted: Social Sci- Aramark to contribute to when itrenewed its years One option involves applying some of the agreed money sustainability efforts ences Natural Sciences (28.6 considering composting, zip cups and local beef. (44.5 percent), com- With the raised thusfar, the College is money towards the cost of maintaining ago. $0,000 and Humanities do- percent), Fine Arts (25.2 per- post bins in the Retreat. While the VSA around cent) and and Literatures two concerns: the environ- all of increasing the sustainability Foreign Languages nated compost cans to the Retreat two years ect could alleviate goal (9.2 percent). The remaining 22.7 percent were those cans with mental of disposable cups, and Vassar's campus. ago, the cost of equipping impact using the ofstudents from the Unfortunately, the local ground beefcould Multidisciplinaryor Interdisciplinary majors. the proper compostable bags is significantly problem taking cups are of a similar not financed by the fund for Thesedivisions representative for use. According to King, be completely more expensive than that of equipping them ACDC personal thousands of and since long period of time. King estimates that distribution among the entire student body, withstandard plastic ones. King estimates the "We've lost cups mugs any at the could as much with a of matriculates having majors more but the introductionof "zip cups" chili prices Retreat goup majority bags' cost "as much as a dollar per bag," September," their wher- as a dollar bowl, and wonders if students in the social sciences. adds over the course would allow students to take cup per a price that up quickly of Whether or not the will he to would the increase in price in light proposal adopt- feels there is ever wanted, without having stealfrom accept of the school year. Still, she only they the benefit it might provide for the commu- ed into the curricular policies of the College a small chance this idea will be realized be- the dining center. will be determined at their The last option involves contracting a local nity and environment. Faculty Meeting, cause it is significantly less visible than the King and other members of the FDIC hope scheduled Wednesday, Dec. 8. other options, and thus less exciting for her farm to provide ground beef for chili in the semes- a divide the fac- This would the en- to selectone option during the second There has been amongst committee to endorse. Retreat and ACDC. satisfy the as as as to the merits of such an adoption. the vironmental concern of locally-grown ter and implement plan quickly pos- ulty A more noticeable project might be eating a in sible.Because there exist meritsand demerits Dean of the Faculty Jonathan Chenette feels introduction of what King calls "zip cups," food, and provide business to small farm it each of the three methods, there's that "while a D is a grade, reflects one can for a the area. has already identified to proposed passing reusable cups that exchange nearby King for debate and advice has a of the subject. Retreat or the Hahn Farms, located in still some room shaky understanding Many clean cup upon entering the All potential vendor, this the been solicited from different students. of us would prefer that students address Campus Dining Center (ACDC). The system Salt Point, N.Y. The farm's website boasts many to semes- if they to move on to more the who food on "We'd like do something for second weakness aspire would work similarly to the to-go plates and motto, "Know people put and is excited that Vassar's ter," said King about the fund's future. "But if advanced studies in the same area." How- cups available at ACDC, and Campus Dining your table," King some someone has a idea, we'd be willing to ever, Chenette also out that eventual return of the business could "make a substantial difference great pointed would secure the cup See SURVEY on 4 This for thatfarm" whilestillmaintaining the over- listen." page by taking a small monetarydeposit. proj-

Thiuri's lecture focuses on need for literacy in Kenya

that he believes that not or health or being gored by Thiuri specified Matthew Brock Unfortunately, Thiuri's hopes for the future sue is hunger to NGOs should be towards Senior Editor did not a lion. The issue is corruption." According geared helping of a tolerant, equality-based Kenya of not the talk- made his own tribe Thiuri, permeates element people, government. "They're Philip Thiuri, a former Vassar profes- come to fruition."Kenyatta corruption every levels of even about building in institutions," at of to be the to rule the coun- daily life on all society, affecting ing capacity Dr.sor and currentprofessor ofGeography people strongest, cash a check. he said. "We should start ca- and soon was divided between tribe] activities as mundane as to by building William Paterson University, returned to cam- try, it [his going "I want to bill but if I don't in humans... They're able to hope, 2 and the rest of the country," he said. "[They] go pay my today, pacity pus on Dec. to address the students packed dollar bill to the I as able to dream, and able to became rich in terms ofland; they grabbed all a five cashier, might they're they're into New England 104, who were all waiting pass see some of their dreams become a of the land... new class started—the class of well stay outside," he said. reality." eagerly to hear his story. Since leaving Vassar, A after "the most funda- "We started asking ourselves 'What happens Thiuri founded Rural Reading Centers Africa, the landless. That is a problem that became However, corruption, continued. and mental problem is literacy. About 40 percent to the poor person?'" Thiuri "We Inc., an organization that establishes libraries bigger bigger." deal withthe result- [of children] don't finish primary school," he started to create reading centers. We collect throughout rural Kenya. The lecturewas host- To skyrocketing poverty the said. "[Literacy is] fundamental because it's books here, from anywhere we can get them... ed by OperationDonation, to help advance the ing from Kenyatta's reforms, government sort out, alternatives in life." we take them to Kenya, them and we organization's mission of improving quality of sought to subdivide the available land between knowing the individuals. of "The number of without an education have 10 reading centers." life for indigent populations across the globe. different Unfortunately, "many people to These centers that Thiuri built work were the subdivision of that is enabling them earn a living is reading "I would like to give you an introduction of the people who doing grow- who owned the ing. One millionstudents to high school; with local schools to provide students with free Kenya," he began. Thiuri started by describing the land were the very people go 50 out. Of those who the access to school books and other resources, the circumstances of Kenya's independence land," said Thiuri. percent drop graduate, such as of old exams. in the itself under the next university only has for 50,000," said Thi- copies "Everyone from the British Empire, beginning in 1952. Al- This pattern repeated space can read uses the books," this uri. "What do do? Go to the become area who and write though Thiuri, originally from Kenya, was too president, Daniel arap Moi. "During period they city, he said. "The the teachers...some stu- we a new disease. It is the disease of cor- a criminal?" children, youngto fight at the time, he stillplayed an inte- got dents leave the to use our books be- of not able to do Last, Thiuri turned to the role of non-gov- university gral role in the Mau Mau movement, a militant ruption. The disease being in the without bribing ernmental organizations (NGO) in Kenya. "I cause [the universities! don't have the books." anti-colonial group."You've all heard about the anything country any- to Thiuri students to take an to see the role ofNGOs as trying make In closing, urged Mau Mau, the freedom fighters movement, the one," said Thiuri. "We got a point where the people the lives of so that the resources and services availableto the active role in improving indigent terrorists," he said. "We considered ourselves politicians got so cocky politicians people," raised to he said. he said many NGOsmerely ex- populations across the world. "Writing is not freedomfighters." demanded that their salaries be [$15 Though need missionaries who are a or else wouldn't to ist to their employees high salaries, with going to help. We Although it began on poor economic foot- thousand] month, they go pay left over for theiractual work. to there and talk to people." ing, Thiuri said that he had high hopes for the work." littlemoney going go Of Thiuri feels that the left office and was "An NGO should be started to help the peo- course, emphasis new Kenyan government. "When (President Since Moi replaced by should be on skills. the division of ple in knowledge so they can support teaching people practical Jomo Kenyatta] came in, everyone expected Mwai Kibaki in 2002, power grow someone a fish However, themselves and to start to reach some "Remember, if you give today, that there would be revolution, that the Afri- among ethnic groups has improved. justice," teach said Thiuri. "The issue of justice is crucial, solve his problem for today. If you cans would kill whites," he said, but Kenyatta the country is stillrife with corruption. you asked what the fac- accessibility justice; the of him how to fish, he can eat for as long as there proved to be more forgiving. "He came in,and When greatest problem specifically ability to are fish," said Thiuri. said, 'We all make mistakes,'" recalled Thiuri. ing Kenya today is, Thiuri responded, "The is- people access resources."

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE NEWS December 9,2010 4 could be Vassar professors receive funds Minicourses for collaborative science studies available as soon as spring

for between two and five courses running to climate issues. Crespi MINICOURSE continued/rompage4 continued 1 tion in regards change scienck from page weeks after Break to Director of four and six Spring Leslie Rissler of the University were raised. According Convergence in large Scale Markov Chain and her partner next semester. Tuscaloosa will be their Activities Teresa Quinn, in light In an e- of Alabama using grant Campus Monte Carlo Phylogenetlc Analyses." this considerations, "It became Should student-led courses begin to work on a entitled "The Geography of these ap- mailed statement Smith wrote, "We will be devel- project spring, Campus Activities would have the Woodfrog: Using Distributional parent that we couldn't really do the oping algorithms and implementing tools to help of Stress in a less active role in overseeing the pro- kind of assessment as to whether to Predict the Relationship Between Pop- analyze large datasets ofevolutionary trees. These Models proper its roleto the scheduling of in a course was viable. It became adminis- gram, limiting results of for the ulation Health and Environmental Suitability," daiasets represent the searching task to do." ad- for course meetings, a difficult a tool- almost impossible In space between sets of which the researchers hope to "develop tratively evolutionary relationships given the said had seen a in and of itself. In past, Quinn, combines measures of dition, mini-courses already Our will determine how kit that landscape-level organisms. analysis help schedule. It and no "We would into this crazy and stress decline in student participation, go these searches were, by detecting the environmental, genetic physiological Successful staff to was a lot of work for my to try to use when concerns were raised when mini-courses which these searches converged." for conservation biologists predict- extent to was 2010. find rooms, and it really health and make were unavailable in the spring of appropriate con- the of population In a vastly different study, Keimowitz, in ing geography challenging to [mini-courses] a con- about whether populations However, the absence of minicourses get junction with her colleagues lames Saunders and better predictions '11, sistent Whereas the Campus Ac- will the threatsofclimate change or did not go unnoticed. John Wojcik space." Lee of Auburn University in Alabama, persist given Ming-Kuo office had once been that student-led courses tivities responsible as is stated in the abstract of who proposed will be using their grant to fund their collabora- habitat destruction," for applications for instruc- be established, first considered the pos- considering tive entitled "Assessing the Effects of the their project. project and courses and of such a at an October tors runningregistration The awarded not helps the profes- sibility program Culf Oil Spill on Mobility of Toxic Metals and money only for mini-courses, the VSA would take also allows for town hall meeting at the Town Houses, Microbial Activities in Alabama Coastal Wet- sors fund the research itself but for student-led and others a void on thse responsibilities to Vassar students as where he recognized lands." Thisproject aims to examine the effects of these professors sponsor courses. Wojcik foresees a more rigorous Smith "This in programming. "There's the the explosion of the oil rig Deep Horizon in the summer research assistance. wrote, campus there's the [organizations], [but] application process than the mini-course will help me two summer research parties, Gulf of Mexico on April 20, 2010 on aquatic and grant support had employed in the past, say- for their students for the next three years, as well as pay there's nothingmore mentally stimulating program coastal ecosystems. In the abstract study, the ing, "Applications will be set up to make collaborative visits at Texas A&M, on the weekends," said Wojcik. Using Keimowitz, Saunders and Lee state, "This project for travel for who are really sure we're getting students and to attend conferences each to present our mini-courses as a model, Wojcik hopes solids and waters from sediment year willexamine pore about trickis to create for student-led passionate teaching...The in microbial work." The whoseresearch will not to help a program cores in Weeks Ala., for changes only professor Bay, someone who's at focus is more on the balance good teaching involve students will be the work courses, where "the arsenicconcentration and speciation, and directly Vassar activity, are interested in and a subject students of who will be leaving Vassar in January student-teaching-student aspect." Wojcik concentration and speciation over the Crespi, mercury The focus on skill-basedcours- at the School sees student led courses, those learning." to become a memberof the faculty especially next to 12 months. Because ocean oil spills eight course instructors an as es could also prevent worldwide, of Sciences at Washington State Uni- with more of instructional focus, are a common environmental problem Biological skills; he from courses with offensive or a means to develop teaching proposing the data gathered in the research should benefit versity. from instruc- controversial material. to Smith,Keimowitz, Chris- cites interest prospective other affected regions." The grant awarded many concern, however, is whether and and their tors of cooking, knitting and beer tasting Quinn's Professors Christenson, Schwarz and Creep) are tenson, Schwarz Crespi colleagues encounter the "We have student-led courses will to em- as examples of this potential. all their to in a variety will afford them the amazing opportunity using grant money engage lack of interest from students that studies which will of academics [at Vassar]," same Christenson bark on a vast of help plenty good of projects in the biological sciences. array final courses] are mini-courses did. In the program's our wealth of knowledge within the said Wojcik. "[Student-led and her colleagues will be engaging in a project strengthen "interest was we didn't make stridestowards future research for the stuff in-between. You could start years, waning, Climate in a Northern sciences and called "Winter Change weren't classthat have as instructors, people night offwith an hour you many 1 lardwood Forest." goals and project. your as much... and sometimes peo- the also received $1.2 mil- have a vested interest in, where there's signing up Schwarz will be working on a project entitled Just recently, College and then not said have to show would sign up go," the National Science Foundation in a no homework. You just up ple "Building Networks and Study Systems to Ad- lion from She "What the VSA re- the of education and learn something that you're passion- Quinn. suggests, on the of Pacific Cor- grant aimed at increasing quality vance Research Biology of how ally needs to do is an assessment current Vassar students to con- ate about." als" in conjunction with Virginia Weis of Oregon by encouraging and are interested." at the The VSA Academics Committee many people really State teaching careers in the sciences K-12 State University, Patrick Chappel of Oregon sider discus- Wojcik believes that there will be sig- official release mentions. Executive Board are in ongoing University, Ruth Gates and Judith D. I.emus from level. As Vassar's press a nificant interest and from more than $10 million in sions on the prospect of supporting participation the University of Hawaii, and colleagues in China Vassar has accumulated "We're a student-led courses, which the student body, saying, quirky since the latest one adds a sig- trial of the and Taiwan. Together these scientists aim to gain NSF grants 2005; will consist of between bunch ofkids. We like learning." amountto this Wojcik hopes further knowledge of coral resilience reproduc- nificant figure.

ADVERTISEMENT Faculty floor Sesquicentennial Issue next step for Special repeat policy

survky contlnuedfrom page 3 members of the faculty feel that this new

policy, ifadopted, will go "too far in protecting students from the consequences of their academic miscues." (See "Faculty opinions vary

course on t.) on repeat policy" page Presi- On the survey, reported Strong House Isr B dent and member of the VSA Academics Com- WWW I

mittee Sophie Wassermann '13, there were

some concerns about from the student body said as well. There was a feeling, Wassermann, because the that the policy was "put in place College believed that people from more di-

have more trouble verse backgrounds might

a of with courses at Vassal" and as result the increased diversification in the student body. behalf ofthe VSA Academics % Jn Wassermann, on kst\\\\\\\\ aw Committee, laterclarified that council was "not encouraging this policy because Vassar has be-

to come more diverse." She went on bring the

attention of the Council members to an note

explaining the same sentiment at the end ofthe ! '. ' endorsement

"I think the note at the end was well-crafted

the committee in expressing that this is for I by On Newsstands 18,201 all Vassar Students, and that this is something January

that we needed beforeVassar became diverse,"

said VSA Vice President for Activities Tanay latum '12. and the The point of the survey consequent endorsement, according to Riker, was the bring student voice into the faculty's decision. "The

wrote reason that |the Academics Committee! students' voices this was so we could have factor into the faculty's discussion," she concluded.

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE 5 December 9.2010 FEATURES

Collaborative effort yields interactive history A freshman's

AashimUsgaonkar to NewsEditor guide Beating out Vassar's homepage with 10,871 hits within 12 hours of its launch, rjo.vossar. the week edu is the result of a yearlong initiativeby study Office of Communications to develop a space for information that would serve as a nucleus JillianScharr Reporter and imagery surrounding Vassar's Sesquicen- of the hardest parts about finals is tennial. Onetaking the time to do them. It's the end think about com- "As soon as we began to of the semester, everyone's burnt out, and munication forthe Sesquicentennial, obviously watching the entire second season of Gleeon one ofthe very first things anybody thought of that DVD looks a lot more appealing than 15- was a website," said Vice President for Com- -page paper due in a week. munications Susan Dekrey when addressing But the fact is, you've got to do the paper. the origins ofthe website in February. Director For the freshmen taking on their first round of Web Development Carolyn Guyer agreed, of finals, or even for upperclassmen who adding: "Anytime there is need to have broad could use a few pointers, here's a few tips for communication about anything, the first thing how to deal with finals. that's what you thinkofis a website, and [Com- Study parties are a must. They're a great munications] decided to do." to mix socializing and work, and plus, "The first step," Guyer noted, "was to de- way accountable having a friend thereto keep you cide what to put in the website." To that end, mean a lot less time on multi-sectioned will probably Cracked. the designers settled on a (If don't know what of com and failblog.org you layout, with a place for "Histories" vari- u website those are, don't check. 1 warned you). one ofmanyfeatured on the "Photos"sectiono/iso.vassar.edu, celebrating go ous academic departments and programs; The abovephoto is a Whether it's The on thesitedate to the day. § Flave Skype study party! "Memories" of members of the Vassar com- Vassar's upcomingSesquicentennial. photosfeatured from 1864 present with a JYA-er or a friend from home, there's munity; a "Timeline" of Vassar since Matthew said co-Chair of the no reason the two of can't study together, Vassar's birth; another timeline of "Events" nology and time can change but certain things programs," Sesquicen- you how milesfrom Vassar he or he that tennial and Professor of Art Susan Kuretsky. no matter many planned for the Sesquicentennial year; and fi- are obviously the same," added, saying intellectual of Vassar is she is. he chose to out this in the display. "This history yield- nally, a "Photos" section, which is described bring aspect § Flaying a friend or two around is also are a comprehen- ing a comprehensive view of our curriculum by Guyer as the "centerpiece" of the site. While the photos in place 2 a.m. break down. It's also about the sive of the decades Vassar has as it is now and also how it has evolved from helpful for that The first thing one notices pho- representation and our nine de- to be able to complain to someone creators are still looking the beginning original helpful tos—which date back to 1864—is their layout gone through, the very to while be warned, from the send us a partments," said Kuretsky, who is looking you're working; just your and display. "It's immersive," said Web Design- for input community. "Just take this as an invitation to com- like with a and we'll expand the section further as the College ap- friend will er Christopher Silverman, describing the mov- picture you really caption all else, be sure that said who will be its "This is a project plain right back. Above ing-wall layout of the images. The display of be glad to include it," Guyer, proaches anniversary. of our various this does not devolve into a who-has-more- to include the in the "Memories" still in as members photos is generated by Cooliris, a Flash-based happy photos progress are Those never end well. If ofthe website. The creators are seek- (with student assistants) in work contest. you media gallery. "I had heard about Cooliris be- sections disciplines on, be the better the of researching, writing and send- sense one of these coming fore, and thought it would be perfect for the ing such contributions to "keep adding, adjust- process es- and first. and the said "I ing in essays with photographs. More person stop website. When looking at the photos, you feel ing refining" content, Dekrey. to be careful about with would like see a lot more ex- says will continue to appear every week," § Another thing likeyou're walking down a hallway," added Sil- to [the website] statement. a.m., want more content from ev- wrote Kuretsky in an e-mailed study parties; just after 2:30 someone's verman, who made several visitsover the sum- panded. We a lot would be said Silverman. Kuretsky the work of Col- going to be hungry. The smart thing mer to Thompson Memorial Library's Special eryone," acknowledged the Col- lege Historian and Professor Emerita of Eng- to just go to sleep and continue working the Collections to select the photos that would be Aside from pictorially displaying also offers the lish Elizabeth Daniels, whom she described next day. The dumb thing to do would be to displayed. lege's visual history, the website for the fact to the Diner and eat a cheese- of academic at Vassar, as "the most responsible go Acropolis In selecting the photos, Silverman was care- stories many programs person and a milkshake at a.m. But some- as and Earth Science that we have an accessible history today." She 3 fulto include those that showed students' lives such Physics Astronomy, burger a the Acropolis and so on. also acknowledged contributions from Dean how, when you're in group, through the College's history. "I found many and Geography, History out. the Acropolis a was Emeritus the College and Professor Emeritus always wins And when pictures of students sitting around with type- "When the idea of such site pro- Colton who "has been inthe wins, loses. You have all break was much the same more than a I immedi- Johnson, engaged your pant-size writersand the pose pretty posed year ago, task of information that will to on thatextra hibernation weight, why that we should include his- immense finding put as students sitting around withlaptops today," ately thought of all of Vassar's and See WEBSITE on page 8 See STUDY WEEK onpage 7 said Silverman. "I was impressed by how tech- tories departments

Content beyond classrooms broadens scope of education

students, as read the material they didn't understand it, Danielle Gensburg Other instances ofexperiential learning re- 10 Taconic women without Vassar second made a bit more and Assistant Features Editor place the great outdoors with the big house. preparation for college-level courses, was be- the time it sense, the the next the third time completely understood it. Professor of Eileen Leonard and gun in 2007. pilot year, they Two courses, EnvironmentalStudies (ENST) Sociology Following three for the course, including this fall These women are notat all shy about speaking 260 Grasslands: Human History and Ecology of Professor Molly Shanley of the Political Sci- years 10 demonstrate effort and initia- offer a course titled 2010 semester, included a of Vassar and really great the American Plains, and Sociology (SOCI) 112 ence Department "Family, group are so for the which students students in addition to the 10 Taconic women, tive. They grateful opportunity Family, Law and Social Policy, offer students Law and Social Policy", places all in and analytical discussion to acquire this education." The course also in- alternative methods of education that take in an interesting, entirely unusual experience. engaged deep

on of racism, and cludes small work and presentations them outside of the classroom and provide This year, the course focuses on problems issues poverty, homophobia group al- incarceration. each week, in order to both initiate discussion them witha first-handlearning experience that confronting the average American family, the course com- and collaboration the students. a ternative and the of the This fall 2010 semester, is promote among brings concepts outofthe classroom and into family forms, history 10 stu- of this that many of posed of a total of 21 students, Vassar "The experiential learning component more tangible reality. family, appropriate considering of the set- to dents and 11 Taconic women. "It's been a ter- class, the experience entering prison Co-taught by Associate Professor ofBiology the Taconic women, according Leonard, and two hours a week within its at rific Leonard said. "Initially both ting spending Margaret Ronsheim and Professor of History have families home. Every Tuesday after- experience," me with a more concrete idea a of 12 Vassar (Vassar students and the women ofthe walls, provided Rebecca Edwards, ENST 260 is a course that noon around 4:30 p.m., group groups works and what it Leonard and Shan- were intimidated by one another. The ofthe the prison system will be offered in the spring of 2012 and will students, accompanied by facility) way means to be a ofit," Souto leave and drive minutes to the women of the Taconic Correctional Facility part explained. explore the biodiversity, ecological, conserva- ley, campus 50 worried about the in which they would Leonard and Shanley's course is a transfor- tive dynamics and future visions of"the Great Taconic Correctional Facility in Westchester, ways and mative kind of education, engaging students Plains" region ofthe American mid-west. Stu- N.Y. The Taconic Correctional Facility is a be perceived by Vassar students vice-ver- with other sa. That at the across a broad of barriers dents' knowledge ofthe Great Plains will not be medium security women's prison which, upon hesitancy beginning eventually range starts "The class suited to a to all visitors to walk breaks down once engaging in people. is particularly limitedsolely to a textbook. According Ron- entering the gates, requires everyone Correctional reveal state issued the materials." setting like the Taconic Facility sheim, the experiential learning component of through a metal detector, because of its focus on the The contri- and a Taconic Correctional Facil- One of the students currently taking the family. the course involves a nine-day adventure dur- IDs, receive butions made the women from Taconicwere studentsthen enter a room in which course, Nadine Souto '12, said in an e-mailed by ing spring break to bison re-introduction sites ity ID. The "This has been one ofthe best class- of particular interestbecause, being older than and The Land Institute in Kansas, where stu- n inmates of varying ages and backgrounds statement,

en- es have taken at Vassar. It was a intro- us, of them have had experiences with dents directly examine the plains and observe greet them, after which the entire class I great many the it that we from 6 to 8:30 ductionto social issues and policies, especially the family and policies governing migrating shorebirds at Cheyenne Bottoms— gages in circular discussion p.m. women and the loved Vassar students are still too to under- to Leonard, The those to family. I young the largest interior marsh in the U.S.—and san- Three years ago, according relating stand. was to hear from them Correctional was for the opportunity to meet and learn It very enriching dhill cranes along the grasslands. Taconic Facility looking alongside as life- to courses. order for women from the Taconic Correctional Facil- firsthand about their experiences wives, Professor Ronsheim explained in an e- professors teach In Leon- mothers and to course at the facility." partners, grandmothers." mailed statement, "Going out and actually ard and Shanely teach a are Leonard "With this kind of were to obtain Leonard that "the students said, experiential seeing Konza Prairie, or The Land Institute in ity, they required permission explained can with a kind of of Corrections in the not allowed to about the Taconic wom- learning, you discuss issues Kansas completely changes the dynamics ofall from the Department inquire Leonard "The Commissioner, en's situations. It's a basic matter of depth that is lost when the course solely in- subsequent class discussions. There is a level city. explained, personal issues volves individuals from similar backgrounds." of understanding gained that simply can't be a man by the name of Fisher, was very inter- etiquette. However, personal eventually was a diverse of the first he come in the conversation based off of the Souto agreed: "The class mix replicated in the classroom." The value ofsuch ested in education. However, thing up discussion and materials read." When people of different races, as well as so- experiential learning, Ronsheim added, is that said when we met with him for the first time ques- ages, and educational back- was. 'This to tioned about the intensity of the workload cioeconomic, political "it is an excellent way to study and appreci- is not going happen.'" Eventually, and her obtained Leonard "We don't have to grounds. This made for class discussions that ate the multidisciplinary nature of the issues." however, Leonard colleagues laughed, worry I about the Taconic students prepared. were some of the most interesting have ex- Ronsheim explained, "Experiential learningis a the necessary permission, and a pilot course, being of and titled Social Problems. The in which In fact, it happens occasionally that a Taconic perienced given the multiplicity views key element to what I do here at Vassar. I can't course, describe how the first time that came both Leonard and a of student will they opinions up." imagine teaching courses without it." Shanely taught group

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE FEATURES December 9,2010 6

Hibernation in higher ed: New courserepeat policy role of D Winter break on campus questions grade

and assumes students of color or those REPEAT continuedfrom I Vee Benard hours as of Tuesday, Jan. 19, and Wednesday, Jan. page from a would Reporter said Professor of Studies Eva disadvantaged background 20, respectively. Hispanic students have a weaker academic performance— The of living and working on Woods Peir6. "So it's basically for prospect of finals week is enough to practical reality a denies. "All the work. would we claim Chenette steadfastly an does have itsdrawbacks, how- who aren't doing Why Thestrike fear in the heart of any college stu- empty campus students admitted to Vassar are capable Professor of and co-Direc- want to be rewarding someone who isn't is followed by ever. Assistant English dent. Thankfully, it immediately have in the effort?" of the of doing the work here., some people tor of Africana Studies and Jewett House Fellow putting Supporters four weeks of rest and recovery —aka Winter from a lack have turn claimed that that to deal with different issues, at described the time between fall new policy in Break. So hold on, there's light the end ofthe Kiese Laymon of in school to adjusting semesters a bit eerie. it would still make students accountable. preparation high tunnel. and spring as being "Under the the D grade to living in dorms, and this policy gives "Students have to leave [their dormitories] so proposal, original Though most ofVassar's student body dispers- to their un- on the and count students the option improve we don't see them at all," said Laymon in an e- would remain transcript es at the close of the fall semester, the campus material." However, as so the of derstanding of the been mailedstatement. "It's and super towards the GPA, consequences remains open to those who have given per- actually spooky comes at the in the course are not Peir6 pointed out, "[The policy] Break. over break." poor performance mission to remain forall or part of Winter lonely wrote a moment when we're diversifying the Col- are Fellows or changed," Lotto. this time, international students, winter- Faculty members who House During and academic all to the new have so even though [race who live on full-time have been known Not objections policy lege, sport athletes, and those hoping to earn some campus are not related it seems like re- claimed it is too soft on students. Several performance] to host small get-togethers for students who extra money through work-study employment are. That's a connection we want intercession have against limiting they not to House, the hub main at Vassar during the period. professors spoken are asked Jo relocate Noyes to make." Rather than as a com- of International the new to the first threesemesters. serving of residential life the intersession period. According to Laymon, Director policy during Peiro D+ and D on race or socioeconomics, Andrew Meade has had students over to College policy states that C-, mentary The Office of Residential Life assigns rooms in Services and ofher colleagues believe that the his house for dinners. Peir6, keeps her doors "indicate degrees of unsatisfactory work, many to those students who have been cleared too, Noyes send the standard signify work new policy would wrong message the to students during break. In fact, students below grade. They to remain on campus. Noyes is designated open students. "We frankly feel that Peir6's for various which in one or more important respects to Vassar location for intersession housing because of its have frequented apartment stan- [receiving a D or F] is such an extreme reasons, from some alone time with her falls below the minimum acceptable size, energy efficiency, convenient location, and, ranging a blanket would but which is of suffi- case, that making it policy kitten to the use of her room when one stu- dard for graduation, of the kitchenettes on each floor. guest course, said Peiro, "If to be setting a lower standard," one cient quality and quantity be counted in Students who spend the holidays relaxing at dent's water heater broke down winter. someone wanted to appeal then that's fine, "I've often had female students come and the units required for graduation." So why home with family, traveling or working might doesn't make sense." extend the to those who receive but a blanket policy over time at over Winter Break," not policy wonder: What is there to do on campus spend my apartment ofthe or of Chen- Lotto the necessity pol- Peiro. "I it when students in Strong a C- D+? Dean Faculty Jonathan challenges break? According lo Assistant Professor of His- wrote enjoy and the likelihood ofqualifying grades, out in living room, feel ette said that "there was an understanding icy panic Studies and Strong House Fellow Eva can come and hang my "Vassar was a has always been a place for safe, and relax." that a D is particularly concerning. It claiming Woods Peiro, Winter Break is a great time just are and to that's where we where students regularly gener- as wellas a number of other House Fel- bit of a compromise say students to rest, catch up on work and enjoy the Peiro, second chances—extensions, The course ously given without the normal mentioned that the organization of more would draw the line." repeat quiet serenity of campus lows, extra credit—when that second also cause tension with rewrites, associated with school. community events during the Intersession pe- alternative might pressures this to take a class under the non- chance furthers learning. To me, poli- riod is the House Fellows might con- the option "The holiday breaks are very peaceful," Peiro something much in the same where- recorded (NRO). Why couldn't a cy is very spirit." are a sider in the future. option wrote in an e-mailed statement. "They great a elect to as Peiro concludes, "You're not going to as the doors to the on-cam- student receiving poor grade forstudents to work quietly on cam- As far dininggoes, opportunity if trouble with the All take the class NRO and avoidruining their fail at Vassar you're having of Vassar, an food centers (specifically Campus pus and enjoy the physical setting pus "This is about the material,because your professors will the Center and the Retreat) will be closed GPA? proposal promoting empty gym, and extra work space in library." Dining We're not that kind ofplace," said will be But even learning, not about avoiding poor grades... help you. For instance,Walker Field House, which is usu- more frequently than they open. have make an effort to an NRO in the course to 'cover Peir6, "You to really meal will not be an option, V- Electing ally packed while classes are in session, is open though swipes any the stu- fail a class at Vassar." account be fully acces- up' the D doesn't change during break. Though the facilitieswill be closed Cash on a student's will grade Chenette admits that he cannot predict sible break. the local stores and dent's knowledge of the material," Lotto from Thursday, Dec. 23 through Sunday, Jan. 2, during Among Chenette concurred: "[Grade the outcome of the faculty vote. The CCP restaurants that V-Cash are Bacio's, Jul- explained. Walker willreopen on Monday, Jan. 3 with hours accept the measure onto the faculty in an and Zorona's. avoidance] is not what this is about. This passed of from 6 a.m. to 8 most days. A liet's operation p.m. read- under- inconclusive vote, and from a faculty Athlet- For those who choose not to home for the is about trying to improve one's full schedule is available on the Vassar go before on Nov. nit is not clear whether the a haven of solitude. standing of the course material you ing ics website. The Frederick Thompson Memorial holidays, Vassar provides second and move policy will The reading, Whether a filling the ocffers, on." pass. Library will be closed from Dec. 23 through Jan. perfecting thesis, most vote as well, will oc- most Some have that likely the faculty with hours of or enjoying the at its quiet, professors speculated 2, and will on Jan. 3 opera- simply campus reopen Interested students won't the new is in reaction to the increas- cur on Dec. 15. winter break on is an interest- policy lion from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Fri- spending campus have long to wait to see what happens. albeit underrated Vassar experience. ing diversity of incoming Vassar classes, day. The library and the gym willresume normal ing

Parking system discourages student vehicles on campus

while still students Danielle Gensburg cars on campus allowing Assistant Features Editor flexibility when they need it. It's a policy or situation," the Vassar Campus Safety and Security program that advances the parking Onwebsite, the College acknowledges out- explained Lotto. Additionally, Lotto empha-

a chal- sized the of the aesthetic of right that "parking on campus remains importance appeal and the "The of the landscape at- lenge and we request the cooperation pa- campus. beauty tience of all." tracts a lot ofpeople to Vassar. The reason why

on is multidimen- Director of Safety and Security Donald parking is so limited campus sional.We don't want the to be one big Marsala works hard to make sure that students' campus he concerns are heard. One of the main problems block ofpavement," explained. Leonard is that Vassar contains around 1,200 employees, Director of Field Work Peter said,

on need on which is not a small issue campus, people many of whom to park campus, "Parking How- thereby limits student parking. Additionally, really care about the parking conditions. stu- most assumptions are based the constructionof an entire lotdevoted to ever, automobile

have access to dent parking would he, according to Marsala, on suburban ideals: the ability to

a car Vassar's level ofsocial inten- exceedingly expensive. Marsala said, "I think immediately. other schools resembles that of a more than thatof a Vassar's more liberal than many sity city

suburb. is a manifestationof this." [in terms of parking], However, difficulties Parking just While Leonard that Vassar embodies concerning parking arc pretty much a univer- argues the of urbanism, in which students sal issue on college campuses." He continued, paradigms

we are to walk at least 10 to minutes to "About four years ago, started charging required 15 the administration has entertained students to park in order to keep up with the their cars, discussion terms ofthe overall olher sisterschools who had been doing so for considerable in The Master Planning a while." campus' layout. Campus the future behind House isoff-limits to students on weekdays inordertofacilitate employ- Dean of Freshman Benjamin Lotto, who is Committee (MPC), which discusses Above, parking Noyes to balance aesthetics and needs. the took into ac- ee andfaculty parking. The College has struggled campus parking also involved with the Committee on College- form of campus, specifically

an ini- Life (CCL), underlined that parking is an issue count the issue of parking in endorsing described the initiative environmental approach to stormwater man- includ- to create a more pedestrian-oriented Lot parking." Eismeier reviewed regularly throughout the year, tiative Av- new areas are all to construct a sidewalk Raymond agement concerning parking by the committee. Lotto said, "It's a matter campus. along ing ofthe MPC. with in order to characteristic of the vision As do at Vice President of Finance and Administra- enue, equipped lighting, pro- ofcompeting values. we always Vassar, been a to to Eismeier, there had tion and member of the MPC Elizabeth Eis- vide students with greater accessibility the According pe- we discuss, evaluate, and identify [challenges], when freshmen were discussed in detail the entire South Lot. riod in Vassar's history and try to bringin all constituencies to develop meier greater to even further on the outskirts section in the dedicated to parking, which The transformation of traditional roadways required park a plan." plan "The lot was located a mile-and-a- on into pedestrian pathways, limiting of campus. Although the College undergoes efforts lo advocates "a new hierarchy of roadway typolo- campus reduc- halffrom Shipping and Receiving, alternative solu- [that] dramatically limitsthe presence of visitor vehicle access to campus, the campus, past improve parking on campus, gies and the current the number of on central the [South Commons] even can be seen with the vehicles in the central core." Accord- tion in cars campus tionsto the parking crunch campus New Hackcnsack lot." While at Vassar to "The of the master plan in order to up the view through campus, parking implementation of the new Zip Car program, ing Eismeier, goal open areas to is but The College's willing- the central areas a shift from smallercentral pe- anything perfect, which allows students to rem designated cars is to get rid of parking in in parking order to improve the pedes- ness to tinker in the name of future solutions an hour: "The of and address methods of providing riphery parking in forup to 24 hours at tight dollars campus an overall and bodes well for the ofcars on belter access for students to the South trian experience, and ecological keeping campus. Zip Car program helps lo limit the number of walking

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE December 9,2010 FEATURES 7

Student vigilance aids Safety and Security Study tips SECURITY continuedfrom page 1 to Wedon't intothe dormsanymore during the keep up go to be daytime...so we ask your help vigilant." Responding to Marsala's language concerning the apprehension and incarceration of con- your sanity victed offenders on campus, South Commons President Brian Kirn 'n queried, "I feel a bit STUDY WEEK continuedfrom pages troubled about things you're saying in rela- the of jump gun? tion to criminal activity on campus. Some Choose your location wisely. You know the stuff you're saying, like, 'That guy is going so take the what kind of person you are, away for a really long time...l justhope strang- proper precautions to undermine your own ers on campus aren't immediately treated as procrastination tendencies. criminals." Marsala summarily allayed Kirn's in dorm room has cer- from .9 Working your anxiety, citing a record void ofcomplaints tain benefits: you're less likely to run into law-abiding visitors to campus concerning friends, it's probably fairly quiet, and you their treatmentat the hands ofVassar's officers. and all over can scatter your books papers Both from this event and smaller incidents, with impunity. most students are familiar with Marsala's name 0 The library has its advantages, too, adorns the "sender" field in a as itfrequently however, foremost of which is the guilt Vassar students'inbox. factor. If you sit in a public place where Marsala explained that the manner in which everyone can see your laptop screen, you he releases informationis, in fact, mandated by YouTube and SecurityDonald MarsaladetailedhowSafety and Security just might feel bad about all those the government. A campus advisory addresses At the VSA meeting,DirectorofSafety videos and focus are trained on an annual basis and deal with issues such as crowd control. you're watching actually non-immediate threats, such as minor thefts Officers,pictured above, on your work. and suspicious sightings, whereas a campus then Riker concluded, "I would suggest hesitated to employ younger officers as well, $ If noise isn't a problem for you, alert is sent out in response to immediatedan- ics Laura '11, worried that of- the All Campus Dining Center (ACDC) is and that for larger events that security would despite minor dissidence that gers such as sexual assaults burglaries. any to at look out- ficers too close in to the students would be also a great place study. Particularly In addition to the most recent assault, one of anticipate the crowd and into hiring age in behavior. the end of the semester, when side sources," an alternative that Marsala ad- tempted to engage inappropriate everyone's the more hot-button issues of the forum dealt dissatisfaction with the Marsala corrected thisnotion. "Most are trying running low on meal swipes, planting your- with a desire for advanced training in crowd dressed by citing past for the can be ofoutside security. to become police officers,firemen, correction self in ACDC day quite help- control on the part ofVassar's students. Josse- employment then have President Samantha officers; they keep their noses clean and of- ful. You can't leave, because you'd lyn House President Daniel Flynn '13 broached Terrace Apartments he said. to waste another meal to back in, raised another concern. ten on to bigger and better things," swipe get the topic, stating, "It is my feeling and the feel- Allen '11 unsettling go ot with law and have an unlimited "I heard a rumor that people weren't actually As for security's relationship public plus, you supply ing ofmy constituents and ofseveral organiza- Marsala think [the tea and cereal for the entire day. their friends in to [Emergency Medi- enforcement, explained, "I tions of which I am a part that Safety and Se- calling of Don't to have fun! After all, it is cal but that officers were relationship] should be that they're partners forget curity do not effectively manage large crowds." Services], security us end of the semester. But don't cram out [Vassar] community and that they keep the Lathrop House President Samantha Garcia finding people passed outside," she said, the first two of out Four Loko had safe. We work cooperatively with them." all your partying into the days '13 echoed this sentiment, recalling the Shiva inquiring if the phasing of very but Marsala study week and then for two more this occurrence. Marsala responded The training is Vassar-specific, stay up Rave, which was characterized by a premature quashed to cam- that another unique of Vas- days straight finish Balanc- conclusion driven by the decay oforder at the anecdotally, saying, "Rodney Young, the explained aspect your papers. one of the most Garcia. shuttle driver, found two [unconscious sar's security force is the relationship that ing workand play is impor- doors. "I was at the Shiva Rave," says pus himself the shuttle. He security officers at Vassar share with the stu- tant life skillslearned at College. "I saw ViCE [Vassar College Entertainment] students] just driving If last final is before Dec. two freshman unconscious in the dents. Though he fielded critical questions, § your 17, plan staffhavingto step in and take on the position found lying com- and use anticipa- lives." Marsala did con- Marsala said that he has rarely ever had a party for that evening ofcrowd control, and I think that thatwas not grass and saved their "The for that event to Nothing have had a of the instanc- about officers. biggest problem tion inspire you. fair especially whenthere were security guards cede, "We lowering plaints makes sweet than visionsofa fu- to have is maintaining their security studying standing right there. I felt like these students es." But he added, "We had threego the hos- colleges said Marsala. don't have that ture soiree. this weekend, whichisnot but we've staff," "We prob- were being asked to do something that wasn't pital good, we Allow little treats the at been five or six in weeks lem. We hardly have anybody leave, give § yourself during their job. That was one of the only times having going past." a work- See a movie after- with this discussion, Marsala ex- them a good salary, we give them good study period. Saturday Vassar that I felt unsafe." In light ofthe excep- Along kind of that Vassar's environment, and they like the students." noon, get a venti mocha on Sunday morn- tional circumstances surrounding this semes- plained the training Safety ing the nature of much of instead of black coffee. And or and officersreceive "The of- Unsurprisingly, given ing speaking ter'srave, Flynn asked, "Is there any way any Security regularly, coffee... ficers are all licensed the state. Before the discussion that night, Marsala revealed in of sort oftraining that could be done to familiar- by you a conversation that he feels most Get Okay, start to have an 8-hour class, and then subsequent § enough sleep! everyone's ize people with large crowd management?" youneed at once, to a 16-hour to deal withinstances of underage pulled all-nighters least Marsala responded, "We discourage large-scale within threemonths youneed have empowered emergency related offenses. thoseare to be for and officer needs an 8-hour class drinkingand otherminordrug but supposed emergency gatherings. We're trained in what we're doing. class, every all-nighters on a a Marsala "We do the Relying heavily on student reporting coupled use only! If you're pulling At the Shiva Rave there were just hundreds once year." continued, of the dorms and basis, then please do both yourself and hundreds of students pushing and shov- service training every year here in house, and with routine patrols campus, regular force confident in around a favor and re- that we can make it a little more Vassar Vassar College's security is and everyone you ing and we were overwhelmed. You need to way Marsala noted thatretired offi- their ability to police culture, while re- think your life. control yourselves." He added, "If things get specific." police party to incidents of ur- And if all else then the next best backed cers find themselves secu- actively responding greater fails, out of hand we call the police." Flynn, commonly working after is at not gency as they arise. thing working effectively by approval from Vice President for Academ- rity Vassar, butadded thatthe College has procras- tinating effectively. Don't spend hours re-

freshing Facebook's news feed. Instead... ADVERTISEMENT 6 Clean your room. It's much easier to work at your desk when you can see your desk. Vacuuming and straightening can be

veryrelaxing when you'd ratherdo anything

AESTHETICS tomorrow, and it's also a MAUREEN DICORCIA than the paper due great opportunity to mull over your paper at the Arlington Center for wellbeing or test, ands while you're at it take a shower! Stink and study definitely do not mix!

§ Work on your magnum opus. That

novel you began the summer before freshman year, the poem you started when you FACIALS were drunk one Saturday night. Sit down and finish it! At least then you aren't doing your homework, but you'll stillhave some- SPA BODY TREATMENTS thing to show for your time. § Okay, if you're going to surfthe web, then at least pick something quality. Don't BARE ESCENTUALS MAKE UP just keep clicking the StumbleUpon button. Why not read about space elevators on HowStuffWorks.com, check the news, of favor- WAXING M or edit the Wikipedia page your

ite book or TV show (trust me, no matter

how obscure it is, there's definitely a Wiki MASSAGES real- for it). This way, when you suddenly

ize that three hours have gone by and you haven't written a single word, at least you don't feel awful for having spent the entire

time on TVTropes.org. of for 6 Avenue ■ Poughkeepsie, NY 12603 There you have it—a quick list tips Lagrange how to cope with finals week. Hopefully you've been inspired to get started on your 845 454 1909 ■ [email protected] finals. But if not, by all means, keep read- i ing The Miscellany Newsi There's no better way to not write a paper than by reading one!

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE FEATURES December 9, 2010 8

SESQUICENTENNIAL

Sesquicentennial calendar builds hype for new year

Vee Benard alumnae/i who are currently involved in the Reporter fashion industry, the magazine will publish to in- the plethora of events this fall semester photographs from the Vassar archives readers about Vassar's fashion In Ifsomehow failed to satisfy your entertain- form history. co-Editor Alison Dil- ment needs, fear not. 2011 marks the 150th an e-mailed statement, birthday of Vassar College's charter, and to lulio '13 writes, "We want to focus on Vassar

momen- and culture the and de- honor this remarkable occasion, a style throughout ages,"

tails for a launch tous celebration will soon commence. On the potential plans campus-wide

events I.oeb Center thatwill agenda are numerous outstanding that party in the Lehman Art deliver in both substance and are bound to speak to all interests. surely style.

21st Center 10. Vassar and the Liberal Arts, January 6. Jazz atLincoln the This event marks the beginning of the Ses- An important part of the festivities is in- quicentennial celebration, and will feature an volvement and inclusion of not only students, exhibition of historicalVassar documents and hut also alumnae/i. Tothis end, Jazz at Lincoln Center the launch of photographs at the Thompson Memorial Li- in New York City will be feature a brary. Boasting a Collaboration between both off-campus festivities. The show will the Archives and Special Collections Library, performance of Vassar Voices, a troupe com- students and alumnae/i the event will include a lecture from the Dean prised ofboth current

taken on the road for ofPlanning and Academic AffairsRachel Kitz- actors, which will be alumnae/i worldwide after it at inger, focusing on the history ofthe College. premieres Skinner Hall the night of the Birthday Party.

October •>. A Day lit Vassar, 15th Variety Show A Day al Vassar will offer the larger Pough- 5. Prc-Eoundcr's Day's to Founder's the College keepsie area the opportunity take part in On the day before Day, willfeature facul- the Vassar community. Capitalizing on the va- will host a variety show that

a talent cancies of October break, special classes will ty members performing acts for styled event follows in the traditionof the be made availableto anyone, student or other- show. The Matthew's Follies, which wise, who finds themselves on Raymond Aye variety shows called the next October. were extremely popular at Vassar in early

20th century. K. On Educating the Global Citi7.cn, November Events. «3th 4. Organization's Sesquicentennial A of the This event will focus on issues pertinent to key component Sesquicentennial

or- will above, to the "A at Vas'sur," scheduled both Vassar and the global community. Vassar celebration will be the events planned by 7'he campus open itsgates,pictured communityfor Day to to take on Oct. Other Sesquicentennial events include a variety show and a birthday party. will host distinguished thinkers from across ganizations, which have been encouraged place 15. embrace the theme in their the planet to impart their wisdom and expe- Sesquicentennial student are terials from the VSA and with the i. Birthday Party, February 3rd rience in a series of dialogues. Perhaps most activities. Notably, publications equipped theme. For aid of Aramark, the students will create cakes Different from the student dance party, Vas- exciting is the fact that students will be en- embracing the Sesquicentennial hosted Feb. and to be featured at the ofthe sar's Birthday Party will be 3 couraged to participate in what are sure to be example, the Vassarion, the Vassar College reception Birthday will be attended from students will a by everyone an array ofdeeply stimulating conversations. yearbook, produce Sesquicentennial- Party. to administrators. The will begin at themed edition, as well as The Miscellany night Skinner Hall with Vassar SOU which will an edition 2.150thExtravaganza, January 29th performances by 7. Contrast Sesquicentennial Issue, May News, print celebrating Co-hosted Entertainment Voices. The night will conclude with a re- In addition to talking with Vassar the history ofVassar College. Organizations of by Vassar College where light all creeds will be putting forth their best ef- (ViCE) and the VSA, the first campus-wide ception in the College Center,

an held refreshments will be As the official forts, so be on the lookout for these once in a student party will be extravaganza provided. ofVassar the event is lifetimeentertainment opportunities. on Jan. 29. When describing the plans for birthday party College, be missed. the party, Vice President for Operations not to and co-Chair of the Stu- With such a wide variety of events that are 3. BirthdayBake-Off,February 3rd Sesquicentennial Cramer not and histori- College past No birthday is complete without cake, and dent Advisory Committee Ruby '12 only culturally, academically

ad- that the "will be over the rich, but also pleasing, Vassar's birthday will be no exception. In states party taking cally gastronomically

we want to use ev- it is without doubt that Vassar's 150th birth- accessible dition to professionally commissioned cakes, entire College Center, It willindeed be celebrated in a the Vassar Student Association (VSA) will be ery r00m... will be a Villard Room party day grand style times 10." befitting its significance. hosting a birthday bake-off. Supplied with ma- on website

WEBSITE continuedfrom pages be added to the Vassar chronological to battle in timeline on the website and bringing it to- Bakers confectionary competition ward the present." most on color, theme, as long as it's Vassar. The "We will likely be working the "So we arc thinking about the Sesqui- Ruth Bolster any Reporter cake that will win has to the biggest nod to cake the day and night prior to the competi- centennial of 2011 not as a static celebra- give on de- its 150th rapidly approach- Vassar's history. It has to be creative,well dec- tion, and finishing up the day of," Vogel tion of 150 years but as an extremely lively birthday It scribed in an e-mailed statement. "It's to With Vassar to celebrate its orated, and well thought out. has to be fun, going year in progress which will encompass ing, plans Sesqui- a and intense but it all with ex- and I think that the people who participate will be long process, doing continuing research and writing and think* centennial in style, complete concerts, as fresh cake. have fun it and I think that the people within a day or two willkeep the cake Ing about the College," Kuretsky concluded. hibitions, and ofcourse, birthday To help doing test who come to the on Feb. will have fun." as possible. We will probably make a run Another events calendar exists on the pag- kick off the on-campus celebrations, the Vas- party 3

a Unlike the elaborate Food Network con- of the different cakes and frostings, etc. over to (VSA) is sponsoring es ofthe website, rangingfrom Jan. 21 Nov. sar Student Association create in to the which students are invited tests that force chefs to a culinary mas- the break and the few weeks prior 19,2011,thatcovers theeventsthattheCollege birthday bake-offin to fine-tune things like moisture commemo- to create the most Vassar- terpiece on the the Sesquicentennial competition willhost onand offofcampus to biggest, over-the-top spot, We will be able to do the lo cakes the Bake-Off is not structured to include a man- and flavor. hopefully rate the Sesquicentennial. "There is going inspired imaginable. Undoubtedly, Birthday Bake-Off promises datory timed baking period, thus majority of our baking and constructing in the bea lotgoing on, so we needed a calendar sec- Sesquicentennial encourag- own Kitchen and the kitchen(s) of senior to means for students to ing contestants to work at their leisure. Jewett tion to keep people informed," said Dekrey. be a fun and exciting their skills and love for all "Another rule is that the cakes don't friends." The response to the website has been showcase culinary are to In terms of resources available to con- did cou- Vassar. have to be edible; they only going very positive, said Dekrey. "We get things that if we made- there are ne- With scheduled to take in the be on We thought testants, currently running ple ofcomplaints that we didn'thave enough judging place display. Bake-Off about and deliciousness one fac- gotiations between the Sesquicentennial '80s photos," joked Cuycr. "We're remedying College Center on Feb. 3, 20tl, the it- it display that coincide with a celebrat- tor would get favored over the other," noted Committee and Dining Services may thai," she said. Dekrey noted an e-mail she selfwill larger party Cramer, "But of course, it still has to be a allow students to work with received correcting the caption on a photo ing the commencement ofthe on-campus Ses- ultimately the All Center (ACDC). activities. While an cake. It can't be plastic covered in frosting." Campus Dining of an a cappella group rehearsing, "the per- quicentennial off-campus a student needed commissioned to cater the Theoretically these guidelines allow stu- "For example, if plain son knew thai the photo was of Measure 4 bakery had been the likenesses of dents to on their respective base cakes, the ACDC [would] make them Measure and nol the Night Owls because reception with cakes made in begin working and students he able to them to cakes days in advance without having to [would! pick he had married a night owl, and wanted the campus landmarks, students are invited pay Cra- with their own bother with freshness or flavor. Creativity is and decorate them," explained change to be made," she said. The change homage lo the College birthday up mer. "And of if the students want- has since been made. cakes that will be displayed during the recep- stressed as one of the most important aspects course, will be of this and should ed to make the base cakes for themselves "The website serves as an effective tion. These student-made cakes then contest, naturally people

are more welcome to do it." not discouraged if feel than communications vehicle for the Sesqui- judged on creativity ami originality by a panel be from entering they they with a with the current roster that their to bake the world's most Whether students wish to sign up centennial, which is trying lo honor a pasl of celebrity judges, ability President of the College Catharine mouthwatering cake is somewhat lacking. group of friends or as individuals, all are en- and present and look forward lo the fu- including Although not mandatory for the cake couraged to take in what is guaranteed to ture," said Dekrey, who is confident ibal Bond Hill and Director of Dining Services it is part to well as alumnae/i who to boast flavors, the of com- be an enjoyable way celebrate Vassar's 150th lio.vassar.edu "does that very beautifully, Maureen King, as gourmet spirit Those interested in should in the arts. petition has driven contestants to birthday. entering With a constantly evolving compendium art currently employed culinary certainly to make the best cake flavor submit a oftheir potential cake, as of information, Ihe Vassal's Sesqiiiccnlen- "We want the cakes to be open ended," be- strive imaginable, description members draw VSA Vice President for Ruby and all. Pamela Vogel '12, who signed up for wellas the names ofeach ofthe team Dial website is sure lo in history buffs, gan Operations to The deadline Cramer one of the three student co-chairs the contest after teaming with two of her scsqui.committee gmail.com. .is well as those in search of a pinch of nos- '12, up friends, has a to is Dec. 10. contest. shape, kind, already strategy. register -1.1 gi, I, behind the "Any any any

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE December 9, 2010 OPINIONS 9

Huxford's column unjust, inaccurate Concerns about

trans Erin Clarke transgender to argueand debate on. The very to compete regardless, and that other in Guest Columnist nature of the idea that somebody who is not athletes who have undergone sexual reassign- tech class

a is on the end of ment at least two are le- piece is, on its face, a rebuttal to transgender always power surgery years ago, to considered theirpreferred sex, and have Thisrecent opinion voiced in The Miscellany the "decision" with regards whether I am a gally

or a been "correct" for at least two News by Rex Huxford in his column "Sports woman as I say and know myself to be. hormonally overstated to man as the doctor "decided" for me at is are eligible compete as their pre- pose unique challenge for trans athletes" birth, years, from personal experi- (12.02.10). The expression of this rebuttal is, deeply offensive to me, and should be subject- ferred gender. I know Forest a ed to the same that the Free ence that the NCAA and the governing body Kelsey however, a long time coming; it is not just scrutiny Weezy, Guest Columnist If of the women's team at Vassar rebuttal to the specific nature of Huxford's Luau or Miami Vice events were last year. rowing only matter on Academic never to withthe shame and number two—a which is sur- Tuesday, the Committee argument,or the comments left to that argu- you have had live require Last ofthe states. a discussion place those constant doubt of both others prisingly easy to accomplish in many Technology opened or the attitudesinherent inthe way your gender, by should hold in our classrooms when has broken The LPGA was ultimately quite glad to have that technology written,though it will take those as the and, society yousufficiently, discussion, which in- then are not to tell reversed what themselves called a dis- and academic lives. The i ofitsdiscontent. It is, in its heart,a re- by yourself, you qualified they professors, am or am a woman. will based on the transphobic cluded a panel ofVassar studentsand to the way Vassar regards trans people, me whether I not You criminatory policy a into the issues call me "Miss willrefer to me as belief that once a has been hormon- was provocative glance many ould like to start with a few sentences Clarke," you person Vassar's are forever "tainted" their that surround student technology use in the § a nutshell, "she," and if do not, then are exercis- ally male, they by I think, in represent you you

on the maleness. The Stockholm Consensus was classroom. attitudetowards trans people likemyself, taken ing the same cruelty exercised by Focus and students voiced concern commentator to the Westboro and the thoroughly researched and had the express Many professors froman anonymous male Hux- Family, Baptist Church, to be fair for that using computers— ford'sarticle:"Ithinkthe Vassar bubblehas en- people who murdered the men and women intent cisgender—meaning technology—especially

names we at "not and I in the classroom was leading students to greater veloped you. Get into the real world. And once whose read off the Transgender transgender"—athletes, although as well as their react to ofRemembrance thisNovember. have personal reservations about cis-centric levels of distraction, impeding youdo tell me how the real world will Day vigil the class- to actu- trans the fact re- to constructively contribute in women passing for me and vice versa." What With regards sports, the issue has politics regarding people, ability that unnoticed mains that a of qualified people room. Some professors were concerned I hear in my head when I read this is, "Trans ally progressed relatively by most group many use of the women inthe UnitedStatesuntil the Castor Se- determined that, after and chemi- the students' technology impeded women are only in the Vassar bubble, people physical a discus- bub- debacle last For thoseof who cal correction and legal recognition, a trans teacher's ability to create productive and trans men are only men in the Vassar menya year. you students are a woman is not advantaged over sion and classroom environment since ble."An argumentabout pronouns whichI will unaware, Semenya is non-transgender significantly

to a cis woman in to ath- were not full attention to the class. Some- not quote in its entirety here—but which can woman who was subjected intense scrutiny regards gender-based paying

letic trans women tend students were frustrated what viewed be read online—also shows this; the original ofherright to compete as a woman because of capabilities. In fact, by they the sex reasons I not state out of for her to suffer from low testosterone levels due as their classmates' lack of respect, both to articlereferred to people as theirbirth and will respect to the removal of natural sex hor- and to fellow students. All of these with the associated pronouns thereof, which already-shattered right to privacy. Transgen- complete professor

mone which is we've been are valid concerns. Students should atten- commentators argued both for and against. der women became more rightfully involved generators, why pay rare thus far. tion in class, for theirown educational and I would like to raise the following point: in the debate with the issue of Lana Lawless, pretty in competition Sorry, gain in the Vassar but a of out of respect for other studentsand professors. When I go out into the world, and I am treat- who won the long drive competition cisgender folks, group people (LPGA) whose doctorates are more than armchair or Students should maintain focus on what is hap- ed and referred to as a woman, with female Ladies Professional Golf Association on Facebook or tour several after her sex have already decided I'm okay around them, rather than pronouns, but then come back to Vassar to years reassignment in-the-making pening the vast for even our culture of other distracting computer possibili- hear myself referred to as "he" and"a man," surgery. Contrary to popular belief, competition. Perhaps potentially are learn—ifwe aren't I the acceptance" needs a bit of scru- ties. After all, we here to I don't think hold a lot of sympathy for the majority of sports organizations—namely "legendary can that ones who follow the Stockholm Consensus Thanks to the is attention in class, how goal pos- viewpoint thattrans people are only respected tiny. estrogen, my smelling paying ever—can else smell the we inside the Vassar bubble. I look forward to of the International Olympic Commission- better than anybody sibly be accomplished? Moreover, absolutely the of other students who leaving the Vassar bubble and not having the already would have permitted Lawless to cissexism in the air? should not get in way on a of The full and the ones wish to learn. I don't believe anyone disagrees nature of what's in my pants be matter participate. regulations,

vote —ErinClarke 'II is a science these issues. public knowledge, or having my gender that is takenup by the LPGA in the prompted by computer major,

involved TransMission, and a senior What we do disagree on is technology's role in so consistently seen and respected as female their own gubernatorial body, are that people in

are who transitioned before are editor these issues. Theconversation held last Tuesday elsewhere, be a matter for people who not puberty eligible photo of Squirm. concerned me because it over-emphasized the

causative powers of technology—that technolo- it gy causes students to be distracted, that causes Study drugs allow for unfair advantage disrespect to fellow students and teachers, that it creates a shorter attention span that affects

would mean for their culture. teachers' abilitiesto teach. This revealed a meme MitchellGilburne drug withoutexpress permission from a medi- ket acceptance Features Editor cal professional. While it would be convenient I feel that my own and other students' con- that I have noticed in conversations, in the me-

were clusions the abuse of dia, and here at Vassar as well—we tend to blame is,arguably, the primary player in for my moral compass ifthis the primary concerning study drugs further muddled an absence of for that occur regardless Judgmenthuman decision-making. We use our judg- offense of study drugs, I feel like the illegality is by judgment technology phenomena of know, and are of technology's a that in the ment to assess a situationand act accordingly. of it all makesfor a weak argument in the face from entities authority. We presence, process which educated aboutand reminded ofthe Media Studies we call de- We judge whetheran action is worthy or un- of a culture ofunder aged drinking in I frequently Program technological officialstance on terminism.This isnot to that technology use worthy, moralor immoral, or even whether or am very much inculcated. So, what exactly is College's underage drinking, say use know and has no effect on students in the classroom at all, not it is in cohesion with the image or iden- it aboutthe use ofstudy drugs that gets under and the ofotherillicitdrugs. We

am able consider the use of suffer under the but that the effect is overblown, in public tity we wish to project for ourselves. We also my skin? How I to College's parking regulations, only

we abreast ofthe availableto our and in our minds. What effects there judge reflexively, and factor the judgment of study drugs an act ofacademicdishonesty and keep options recognition

if am unable to blame and we are well aware ofthe are seem to me to be small, and moreover, not others into our choices. Furthermore, judg- cheating I necessarily security officers, does offer ment is at the centerofthe systems thatallow someone for turningto them? consequences and judgments related to every necessarily problematic. Technology

answer comes of academic for an route to distraction, but students were society and civilizationto maintainauthority For me, the from this very instance dishonesty...except easy

and dis- distracted beforethe ever over the human masses. same sympathetic motivation. Everyone wants the abuse of study drugs. We agree long Internet emerged.

at as we with laws and on It does offer a more noticeable form of disre- I think that this preamble is an effective to do well academically, especially Vassar. agree please policies

and even national but at but students were teachers lead-into a discussionabout the un-prescribed This is a goal common to the entire campus, Vassar-centric scales, spect, disrespecting not are aware of the blanket before Facebook. use ofAdderall and other such study drugs. If and thoughVassar does foster the compet- least we judgments long

to other under which we are to be This is not the cause ofstudents' we leave the controversies surrounding the itive environments rumored plague expected operat- technology

When comes to we hear behavior, it exacerbate it.But tech- veryfact that we are becoming an increasingly institutions of higher learning, this selfsame ing. it study drugs although may

of an Adderall driven a craze also should not be blamed for its medicated generation aside, internalizations common goal loses its value when the roads whispers craze, nology doing

to are characterized shortcuts. that eats at the of the well new and different forms of of the use of study drugs in order to enhance achievement by away sanctity studying, job —offering

of of the and the laborof conversation, new new to one's ability tofunction inanacademic context It is notthe use ofthe drug, the effects the purity paper, learning. information, ways

as of are and think aboutthe worldand the to make vast boilsdown to judgments that need to be made. drug, or the legality of the drug that I cannot So long voices authority silent, ability

but rather status as the issue of the of and networks and connections I, ofcourse, am not free of myown personal get behind, itssurreptitious relatively flimsy legality ever-expanding therefore from such abuse is used to the of and teachers judgments on this matter. Frankly, Ifind it very something extra, and separate prolong casting among ideas, places people. Instead,

abuse will a see as one more tool in difficult not to see the use of study drugs as the intellectualprocess. Study drugs need to true judgment, study drug exist in should this technology

either become as an academic limbo that accelerates the ofthe their tool kit. has a place- cheating. They are performance-enhancing recognized development pedagogical Technology

rift between our academic and the in the and to remove its and its chemicals, which alterone's ability to perform standard or scorned as an academic scourge. practices classroom, trying ofacademic small—is for the better in an arena in which one's peers I can imagine a hypothetical world in which expectations institutions. influence—however counterproduc-

and teachers take a before class to Ifthis silence continues the for which tive. Instead, we should be about how are not given these same advantages by de- students pill grades thinking fault. My judgment ofthe practice, however, is enhance discussion, in which the lab portion we turnto these substances willno longer be able these technologies should be used, and teaching

the ofour work. than exclusion. Fa- more complicated. ofa science classisexpanded to encompass an to accurately speak to quality I with inclusion, rather Maybe

use an understand I understand the allure of study drugs. The amphetamine fueled session ofdiscovery, and believe that the ofstudy drugs is act of cebook can help a sociology student

but not one ofacademic So networks of influence. an fact that a substance exists which allows one to in which the mind altering powers of drugs cheating, dishonesty. Maybe anthropol-

as thatbe a blind to the student can the manage time with the utmost efficiency in an like Adderall have become the standard to long the powers turn eye ogy explore community-building

un- which academic is held.Potential of abuse it isnot bound of YouTube. (For ideas on how this can age where multi-tasking reigns supreme is performance qualification study drug impact

Untilthese abuses are treated with see Michael Wesch's talk at the deniably appealing. The use of Adderall grants health risks aside, this fantasy dances around by judgment. work, Library most wakefulness, focus,and a reprieve from the ever the issue at hand. Study drugs are used and the same severity and urgency as offenses such of Congress.) I think the important thing useful, distracting pangs ofhunger that areapt to accost abused inorder to grant an advantage against as plagiarism, it is impossible for them to be is to determine where the technology is bound the of and where not, and then teach students how us in moments ofdeepest study. Furthermore, often maddening amounts of intellectual la- by concept cheating in its entirety. it is

not fair. use and and oth- the drugs neither impart new wisdom or intel- bor. Allowing these drugs into the pantheon As it stands, study drug abuse is to it in those places purposes, lectual capacity nor do they provide the continu- ofacademia, while potentially useful,efficient Drugs such as Adderall convey an unfair ad- erwise to close xked, flash games, or whatever

as life unfair and driven distraction be headed towards, and ously diminishing returns ofcaffeinated bever- or productive, would only cause academic de- vantage. But it goes, is they might

cannot instead. If we don't ages. In essence, Adderall is the perfect study mand to rise in response to the toolsavailable by countlesscircumstances that possi- to look up at their professor

to students. It that students turn fall victim to and therefore are ifwe don't teach with technol- aid,and I cannot say that I would judgeanyone is my feeling bly judgment provide guidance,

an out able to their vendetta instead of we are out on a for choosing to engage withthis miraclepill. to Adderall for easy way of the work continue against equal- ogy against it, losing The voice of the law also does littleto aid that has been deemed appropriate for their ity. The abuse of study drugs is in a position major opportunity. Technology and teaching can

a academic level, and that the of the to be but such cannot find don't have to me in my quest for judgment. Adderall is proponents judged, judgment cooperate;they compete.

do what blan- the hands ofa mere individual. on prescription medication; it is illegal to use the abuse ofthe drug not recognize power in See TECHNOIXKJY pageQ

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE December 9,2010 10 OPINIONS

Wikileaks holds those in power accountable for wrongdoing

Emil Ostrovski American Civil Liberties Union Human Rights fusing. We do have to wonder though, even if bring about an Iranian coup, to Syria's possible Columnist we are to the aims involvement in the assassination of Lebanese program, said the manual "...raises a lot of sympathetic organization's Rafic Hariri in the rami- concerns administration's and no lives—in this specific case—were put Prime Minister 2005, years after Wikileaks posted its first about the genuine- much for fications ofthe release ofthis information and Four week-and-a-half ness in terms of ICRC [International in how much power is too document and about a since allowing jeopardy, to such a small of Wikileaks seeks more are impossible foresee. As interest- the release of secret American diplomatic files, Committeeofthe Red Cross! full access, as was group people? is to know the Chinese think ofNorth to world...[the to accountability, but who will hold ing as it attempts have been made to jam the now-noto- promised the Americamilitary) promote because Wikileaks access to the Wikileaks accountable if their disclosures do Korea as a "spoiled child," rious website, bank accounts have been denied, are the only organization that has end lives? is not held at all accountable to the people its the founder, Julian Assange, is in the custody of detainees, and this raises a lot ofquestions." up costing affect—unlike don't to After all, a mere two months later, Wikileaks activities governments—l British police, and though some members ofthe I think we'd be hard pressed criticize As- of disclosures mentioned leaked documents about the Iraq War, of thinkit has the right to take into itshands a de- organization claim otherwise, it seems the fu- sange for the kinds said: cision ofsuch scale and release this kind of in- in above, and do seem to to an extent, which a spokesperson for the Pentagon ture of the entire endeavor may be jeopardy. they affirm, our formation. Yet how do we draw a line between of a means of "This breach could well get In December 2006, long before any of this Wikileaks's mission providing security very and information? Is accountabil- and those are fighting with killed. acceptable unacceptable recent controversy, Wikileaks published its holding those in power to greater troops they to a Somali con- Our enemies will mine this information look- it okay, for instance, make public first document, signed by Sheikh Hassan Dahir ity. There is, however, I think a very real for insights into how we cultivate Sheik's alleged endorsement of the assassina- Awcys, calling for the assassination of Somali cern for the kinds of consequences that may ing operate, and not to material. sources and react in combat situations, even tion of political officials, yet okay government officials. Sheik Aweys served as follow the dissemination of certain involvement in over the of our What the make public Syria's possible the head of the Islamic Courts Union Shura On July 25 2010, Wikileaks released 90,000 capability equipment." Min- didn'taddress to from the assassination of the Lebanese Prime (Parliament) from the June 2006 take-over of documents regarding our war in Afghanistan, spokesperson was, quote If the latter is not is it to not The Guardian, the leak's detailing of how "U.S. isterRafic Hariri? okay, Mogadishu up to the Dec. 28 fall of the city which, according Assange, "[show] only of authorities failed to hundreds of simply due to the fact that it was an American back into the hands of the Transnational Fed- the severe incidents but the general squalor investigate If the of and even mur- cable that contained this information? eral Government, Along with the document, war, from the death of individual children to reports abuse, torture, rape that kill hundreds..." How- der and soldiers whose conduct cablewere French, wouldwe have such qualms Assange posted a commentary in which he major operations by Iraqi police And if a number of the to be and aboutit? moreover, we'reagainst leaking asked of the document, "Is it a bold manifesto ever, according to sources, in appears systematic normally unpun- of civiliandeath documents because ours, then to of these the names ished," its figures simply they're by a flamboyant Islamic militant with links process posting materials, publishing a we should be the war shouldn't of dozens of informants were (66,081 non-combatant deaths out of total of against leaks, Bin Laden? Or is it a clever smear by U.S. intel- Afghan suppos- revealed. for the Taliban fatalities)inspite of claims by we? But I'm not prepared to take that stance. ligence, designed to discredit the Union, frac- edly A spokesman 109,000 previous the war leaks if a had U.S. and U.K. officialsthat no record of civilian Yes, I would be against they put ture Somali alliances and manipulate China?" said after the release that commission

on lives in But I am also been formed to the names of the in- casualtiesexists, and its coverage ofreports American danger. against Wikileaks followed this up in 2007, when they compare not accountable for wrongdo- with their own list of wanted specific engagements, including those in holding people provided a report by Kroll—an international formants 1,800 many seem clearly in the ing, and how can we hold people accountable risk consultancy company—to The Guard- Afghanis. "After the process is completed, our which U.S. forces wrong. to do so? One such case involves an ifwe'renot given information ian, on the basis of which The Guardian then Taliban court will decide about such people," Apache gunning enough down two soldiers trying to surrender after a If I'm paying for a war, I want to have informa- published an article entitled "The Looting of he said.Though Wikileaks has withheld 15,000 base told them, "You tion about about civilian casu- Kenya." The report alleged that the former Ke- documents and is reportedly going through militarylawyer fromtheir engagements, an about abuses. Blot out the names, blot and his them "line not to make cannot surrender to aircraft." alties, nyan President Daniel arap Moi family by line," supposedly of the hit the fan with out the locations, blot out equipment, even, but employed a"...web of shell companies, secret the same mistake again, it may be too late for But course, crap really of cables, and still,provide me with the knowledge of what's trusts and frontmen....to funnel hundreds of some. Yet at the same time, an offhand com- the release American diplomatic fail to war in this instance, I think the potential harmdone going on. As long as the governments millionsof pounds into nearly 30 countries in- ment in The Guardian article "Iraq logs: like is on do this of their own accord, cluding Britain." secret files show how U.S. ignored torture" undeniable From revealing U.S. pressure organizations forall the and harm leak the Pakistan overits nuclear arsenal, to Chinese ac- Wikileaks, good they may Somewhat closerto home, in 2007 Wikileaks about the Afghan reads, "But military over the of a unifiedKorea, willcontinue to exist. also released the Standard Operating Proce- recently conceded that no harm had been iden- ceptance prospect do, Wikileaks to Arab leaders viewing the Iranian nuclear dures for Camp Delta, a U.S. Army manual that tified..." after previously claiming

— as a threat that needs to be Emil Ostrovski '12 is a philosophy major at shed light on the conditions in Guantanamo had "blood on their hands" over the leak, which program stopped, to of Mossad the U.S. to Vassar College. Bay. Jamil Dakwar, theadvocacy directorof the just makes the whole situation even more con- the chief suggesting try

Next legislative session a test of Tea Party's values

to as head- Party that is frequently hypocriti- the Tea Party as a whole. It is hypocritical Sarah Begley be dredged up and used inflammatory Republican denounce the bailout of Wall Street but Guest Columnist lines. Their accountability rests entirely upon cal in itstreatment ofthe deficit. sup- extended tax cuts for the wealthiest two their for future actions. are Take for example the Bush tax cuts. Would port the tilth Congress nears the end of its promises They whom will not themselves on their status the vote have lookeddifferentifthesefreshmen percentof Americans, most of Asfinal, lame duck session, liberals across blank slates, selling

the to create new or the next as Americans"and their commitment had At first glance, their name's use money jobs pump the country are beginning to fear what "regular participated? "Taxed (TEA) im- funds into the but will stash it all in Congress will bring. In January, Democrats will to finding common-sense answers to our fiscal acronym Enough Already" economy, will no one but that would be to raising a savings account where it help lose their majority in the House, as well as six problems. plies they opposed I taxes. However, as a that calls itself themselves. therefore believe there is an in- of their seats in the Senate. According to the Of course, in a few months time, they won't any party would be visible schism in the Tea between leaders out a champion of the middle class, it Party New York Times, of the 63 seats gained by Re- be so regular anymore. They'll soon find that like Mr. Smith counterintuitive forthem to support extending like Sarah Palm—who has made a fortune on publicans In the House, 31 will he held by fresh- real-life Congress isn't anything of a book deals—and the are Goes to to be tax cuts for people making upwards troops they rallying, men who have never beforeheld elected office. Washington, and they aren't going quar- con- ter ofa milliondollars a Then who really believe that their middle ciass This is due in large part to the recent popular- ableto fix our country's problems any faster than year. again, many ofthese incomingfreshmen are small-business cerns are being taken seriously. ity and influence ofthe 'Tea Party. the Democrats have. But the more important 112th will be owners or have probably received funding I, forone, look forward to the Congress, Over the last year, as the Tea Party has question isnot whether they discouraged these the but how will stand from who stand to lose if the tax cuts if only to see what kind of decisions gained more and more national attention, the by politics game, they up people freshmen make. If are as serious about to line are not extended. Would members of the Tea they Democratic response has ranged from the sar- main Republican leadership. reform as the it follow the stick to their and take action to de- change and Tea Party says is, donic to the terrified. Now that they actually Will Tea Party congressmen party Party guns more or use "com- crease the deficit and the middle class, or maybe they will be slightly bipartisan have their foothold in Washington, even those line on every vote, will they their help than the current GOP members of mon to come totheirown con- would they step in line withGOP leaders,who Congress. who once satirized must now take them seri- sense" ideology tax of Or,perhaps they will the reckless GOP ously. The Tea Party's influence in Congress clusions on important national issues? Remem- say they will not support increases any support the on fiscal in which case I will be on ber, like the Democrats in 2008, this is a kind? And if they did vote with Republi- matters, very over the next two years will depend largely party curiousto see how their constituentswillreact. that and that has its own cans, how would their Tea Party constituents whether or not they differentiate themselves wants change, strong or will Is at feel about it? Tea Party favorite Will swallow the publicity spin, from other Republicans and remain loyal to opinions independent of the Republicans. it back home they Michelle Bachmann, realize that the Tea Party can't deliver the their sub-party's values. possible that they will sometimesside with the Congresswoman Republi- they

can ofMinnesota, has said that she "would like change they seek any faster than Obama can? First off, it's important to remember that Democrats? the of these fresh- or that will some- to get the current tax extended as far Either way, performance these freshmen are not the same as mainstream I'm not saying hoping they policy will reveal whether or not the into the future as we possibly can," according men Congressmen Republicans; yes, their rhetoric is familiar, but how become a great ally to DemocraticPar- Sarah are devoted to the middle class that on social issues where tend to ABC News, and Tea Party leaders like they truly they market themselves on their outsider sta- ty, particularly they elected them. to differ I wonder if, in Palm tend to that a recession is not the tus in Washington. Unlike mainstream Repub- immensely. But theory, agree

see a few Tea time to raise taxes on licans, they have no history in the Capitol: they it would he possible to Party anyone. on of fiscal I believe that this is in direct con- —Sarah Begley '12 is an English and French weren't around for Bush, they didn't vote for congressmen cross the aisle issues ideology at when with a trast with the middle class values expressed by major Vassar College. war or tax cuts, they have no political record to responsibility, especially dealing

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MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE December 9, 2010 OPINIONS 11

Tax compromise a positive step for growth

far their normal 26-week length is Joshua Rosen during his 19 year tenure in the House—in beyond Opinions Editor Even the indi- Word ONTHESTREET an opinioncolumn he published in The Wall counterproductive. though insur- in November of 2010. But what viduals who receive unemployment Democrats are up in arms Street journal receive, between I take issue with is the mistaken notion that ance do spend the money they Congressionalover the compromise Re- is an economists across the political spectrum publicans and President Barack Obama allowing taxes to rise expenditure. in the duration of tax rates the same as have been concur that increasing regarding the extension of the so-called Keeping they Even a decade is not an as benefits increases unemployment. What's favorite Bush tax cuts and a reduction in the pay- for nearly expenditure, your a economic result much as Landreau and her ilk want to Larry Summers, formerly top roll tax, an agreement expected to might an econo- adviser to President Obama, wrote in 1999 stress buster? in costs of $900 billion, according to The believe. Rather, as Thomas Sowell, that assistance New York Times. The extension of the mist at the Hoover Institution of Stanford "government programs tax rates, contribute to long-term unemployment Bush tax cuts—which were a series of large University opined, maintaining or

an and the means, even is not a of any kind; incentive, scale tax reduction packages passed dur- lowering them, gift by providing The Wall rates not to work," according to Street ing the administrationof former President reducing or maintaining merely allows journal. George W. Bush that reduced taxes ranging Americans to "keep more of what they have what is true about tax from the income tax to the estate tax—has earned." Generally speaking,

on reduction—that it is not gifts from the "Watching been the focus ofmuch ofthe ire ofliberal Even Obama, who himselfcampaigned government—is not true about unemployment Bones." Democrats. This ire stems mainly from the the promise that he would end the so-called

cost tax cuts two of benefits: they constitutea transfer of wealth perception that there is a substantial for the top percent income a"a from to those who are not involvedin extending these tax rate reduc- earners, called the compromise good working persons to Though some level of unemploy- tions, which, admittedly, tend to provide deal for the American people," according working.

even it would ment benefits—for a limited duration—is larger dollar amounts of tax reductions for The New York Times, though Alison Goodman '12 so as to avoidthe current rates for quite desirable, help people the relatively wealthy. Some Democrats, preserve higher-income of while they transition like Senator Mary Landreau, of Louisiana Americans. privations poverty workforce, is unreasonable as far as make bombastic Obama is cognizant of the fact into the it utterly have gone to Perhaps of Americans— to allow Americans to receive from statements charging that extending the tax that the top five percent money of the public for month month, even far rate reductions was tantamount to borrow- those who have an adjusted gross income upon were extend- over 60 of the past the weeks that benefits ing "$46 billion from the poor, from the $159,000—pay nearly percent 99 to the deal between the GOPand tax burden while earning ed to prior middle-class, from businesses...to give a federal only 35 per- "Running." cent of the nation's President Obama. tax cut to families in America today that, adjusted gross income, the Tax Foundation. This dis- Over the coming months, I hope to despite the recession, are making over $1 according to and Dem- was record- between and tax burden hear —Republicans million," as Senator Landreau crepancy earnings politicians not as as ocrats —avoiding their usual rhetoric re- ed as saying by The Wall Street Journal. is troubling, but nearly problematic the taxes and Of Yet it is fundamentally false to claim that the extension of unemployment benefits for garding deficit, spending. Alii Rossetti '13 could be. course, this be too much to ask, but extending lower rates on income taxes and another 13 months might not is The between the GOP and at the very least, it does seem unrea- other federal taxes an expense. Rather, compromise

President Obama is a for sonable to see the lame-duck Democratic it is a reduction in short term revenue that positive step long

as a GOP tide term current tax rates Congress receding may very could quite easily be made up for ifSenator growth: Maintaining a to growth Landreau, President Obama and Congressio- does not discourage working and investing well prove boon economic and like the rates would. However, noninterventionist policies nal Democrats were as willingto reduce the increasing through side of the efforts. at the bloateddomesticprograms and cut earmarks the other agreement, extending austerity "Eating ofthe benefits, is quite as the soon-to-be Speaker House Rep- unemployment namely, DC." — Rosen an economics resentative John Boehner (R-Ohio) is. After problematic. While high unemployment Joshua '13 is major

undesirable to have in a and editor The Miscellany all, Boehner pledged to end earmarks—and may be prosperous Opinions of benefits News. noted he has never asked for any himself society, extending unemployment Jack Gross '12

Roots of urban violence must be addressed

violence. There has been in some JuanThompson pathology of growing up" in areas like De- progress reform is still Opinions Editor troit where "people are doomed from birth." cities, but strong, adequate

some. the there was renewed focus on needed. An educational, positive, exemplary violence is a tired issue for In 1990s "Dancing my culture at school will inevitably affect the UrbanPeople have lost hope in solving the urban crime; that focus eventually faded as butt off." once he or she leavesthe classroom. center Stanley- student problems that have plagued many ofour na- other issues took stage. But The second of the three-pronged tion's cities for decades. Americans are also Jones' death should be a catalyst for the part return to the issue. While vio- strategy lies within crime Most po- concerned with other issues; we did just re- country to fighting.

to insome areas, other of lice officers are decent people doing their Alter '13 turn a rash, imprudent Republican Party lence is down pockets Nicole the nation haven't been so In Chicago best to violence and protect inno- power in Congress. And the country contin- lucky. suppress efforts are on the rise, and in St. Louis cent people. I support to ues to grapple with a sputtering, lackluster cop killings completely News understandthe roots ofviolence and —Aashim Editor violence urban two were murdered last week at the despair. Usgaonkar, economy. However, the in people man. These incidents And thus should be Juliana Halpert,Photography Editor America isa salient issue that deserves to be funeral ofa murdered police departments given to baffles me tell us that we should be putting more the resources do their jobs. It a point ofdiscussion. cops the force in that Camden is being forced to cut their po- The issue captured my attention after I on the streets, not cutting police of constraints, and as occurred in Camden, which lice force because budget read a heartbreaking story in Mother Jones half, just N.J., about Aiyana Stanley-Jones. Stan- also happens to be the second most danger- that Detroit can't even send fully equipped magazine Word on the fcUUeet to a recent ambulances to some calls. (Instead they send ley-Jones was a seven-year-old girl from ous city in America, according a car with a defibrillatorand blan- on the couch her from Press. equipped Detroit who was asleep in study CQ sassmore Dealing with this issue, as I will ket.) What absolutely galls me is that while grandmother's apartment when the Detroit suggest, Sam Seymour '11 urban America struggles with crime and a Police Department's SWAT team stormed in. involves a three-pronged strategy. First we on produce the lack offinancial resources, the United States A scented bubble bath with a The SWAT team, accompanied by a reality should focus the factors that lavender fund- one of which is the current state of Congress a multibillion-dollar television crew, came looking for Stanley- violence, passes glass of perrierand a good book! allocationfor the War. who was the education. Any inner city school ing Afghanistan Jones' aunt's boyfriend, prime inner-city 11:22 PM Dec 6th via web of the strat- had taken reformshouldfocuson withparents The third part three-pronged suspect in a murder that place engaging

deals with us I believe, even the day before. The SWAT team first threw by providing them with parenting classes. egy people.

frown on this suggestion and take after two-and-a-half million on this a flash grenade into the apartment and this, Some may years as an but the there is still a large untapped according to Mother Jones, was not stan- it insult to low income families, earth, poten- Mystitat of- tial for human and empathy. That dard procedure. The grenade was so hot studies do show that inner city families greatness Carolyn Crabill '11 because we are so that it burned the Hannah Montana blanket ten lack structure and positive role models. reservoir goes untapped Doctor and reform also up in televisionshows, hook- Who soundtracks swing the little girl was sleeping under. The lead School suspension is increas- caught gadgets,

facet of over- and other that shouldn't dance music! SWAT memberthen burst into the first floor ingly becoming an important ups garbage really

reform. week The New York Times matter. We should volunteer our time to ').'>'i AM Dec via to apartment and fired a single fatal shot that all Last help sth Echofon In reply miscel instead of or lanynews struck the seven-year-old in the head. The profiled the new superintendent of the Bal- those in need, posting respond- Andres Alonso. to the rumor that takes place Police Department, predictably, offered con- timorepublic school system, ing mongering Alonso has reduced on the Say flicting stories as they attempted to explain drastically suspensions Anything blog.

"kids come as is and it's our to If we don't take the steps, or a version of their killing of the young girl. Initially they because job Alonsoremarked the Times. them, outlined above, the urban violence of claimed that the grandmother attempted to engage them," to faCebOOk comments that Instead Baltimore school an 2010 will repeat itself in 2011. That augurs grab an officer's gun, but then argued officials, setting excellent for have relied badly for all Americans, not just the Wood '13 :) she brushed the officer's gun upon the SWAT example students, poor Sandy Hugathon to dis- denizens of the inner cities. So as we enter team's entry. Chauncey Owens, the prime on mediation and counseling solve Monday at 10:50pm we after This avenue of sets a the second ofthe new decade should suspect, was arrested within minutes putes. problem solving year follow John CreenleafWhitticr's the shooting. Owens had been fingered in the good example because it shows the students Quaker poet Hunter Furnish '14 Watching a arc other to solve matters and "bear witness to the cost and shooting death ofa teenage boy a day earlier; that there ways example TV show 30 Dexter, worth of and of so that (Archer, Rock, he had shot the boy, apparently, after the boy than merely reacting without thinking and justice love," Aiyana

sense- An automatic fits Stanley-Jones will not have died in vain. Archer, etc.) had given him a dirty look. Owens' contemplating. suspension

within the school, as does at I:43am less act of violence was responsible for the into that category Tuesday

on streets — is a science deaths oftwo innocent people who had done the violence that takes places the Juan Thompson '13 political outside of the school. Education reform is and editor of The Miscellany absolutely nothing wrong. The chiefmedical major Opinions —Marie Dugo, Social Media Editor

an of News. examiner contended that there was "psycho- thus integral part battling inner city

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE 12 HOLIDAY December 9, 2010

SPECIAL SECTION

the days when the end of the felt like December and less like Rememberyear more Stresstember? So do we, and it is in that spirit

that we bring you a page fullof holidaycheer. Be- home for the take fore you go holidays a peek at these pages and immerse yourself in that oh-so- festive spirit. May the sights, smells, and sounds ofthe holidays pull you from the gloomofexams

and papers long enoughto invigorate your study schedule. And whether your grades are naughty or nice, know that The Miscellany News is wish-

ing you peace of mind and a happy new year.

Holiday Recipes

can break you out of yourfinals funk better

Nothingthan a tasty, homemade treat. These scrumptious recipes from student readers are guaranteed to be a hit

at your upcoming holiday party or, let's face it, group study session.

Chocolate Cake

» Cocoa powder for dusting

» s: cups all-purpose flour

» i 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

» 3/4 teaspoon salt

» 3/4 pound bittersweet chocolate

» 3 slicks unsalted butter

» 1 cup dark rum

» 1 1/3 cups espresso

» 2 1/4 cups sugar

» 3 eggs

» 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla powdered sugar for dusting Lemon-cheesecake squares area treat at any timeofyear. Witha cooking timeofjust nminutes, these are the perfect study break whipped cream (whip heavy whipping cream with va- snackfor the holiday season, whenfinals have got you down. Top withfresh berries or otherseasonalfruitfor addedflavor. nilla cV sugar to taste so it's sweet but is still light) Lemon-Cheesecake Squares 1. I'reheat oven to 300°F.

2. ltutter a 12-cup bundt pan and dust with cocoa powder, Crust » 3 tablespoons sour cream

knocking out excess. » 9 whole graham crackers » 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

3. Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. » 5 tablespoons butter » 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon peel

4. Melt chocolate and butter, stirring until smooth. » 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

5. Remove chocolate from heat and stir in rum, coffee, sug- 1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Fold 16-inch-long piece of foil to » Fresh berries for topping (raspberries, blackberries, etc.)

ar. Bxi6-inchstrip; place in BxBx2-inch metal baking pan, leav- 6. Beat in flour, eggs, vanilla until batter is combined well. ing overhang on 2 sides. Repeat with another sheet offoil 1. Beat cream cheese and sugar in large bowl until smooth

batter in Butter an electric 7. Pour into pan. opposite direction, lining pan completely. foil. with mixer.

oven sour then 8. Hake cake in middle of about 1 hour and 50 min- 2. Place graham crackers in heavy-duty plastic bag, and 2. Beat in egg and cream, lemon juice, lemonpeel, utes. finely crust them. Melt butter in medium skillet over low and vanilla.

9. Let cake cool completely in pan on a rack and turn it out heat. Remove from heat; add crumbs and toss to coat. 3. Pour batter over crust.

onto rack. Press crumbs evenly onto bottom of prepared pan. 4. Bake cheesecake until slightly puffed and set in center 3. Bake crust until deep golden, about 12 minutes. Cool crust (about 30 minutes). Cool completely inpan on rack. Chill Cake Bioy be made .? days in advance ifkept wrapped well whilepreparing filling. cheesecake until cold, at least 2 hours. and chilled. Cake isn't that sweet on its own, so dust with 5. Using foil overhang as aid, liftcheesecake from pan. Cut

sij'ted powdered sugar and serve with home-made whipped Tilling into 16 squares; arrange on platter. Top with fresh ber-

cream. » 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, room temperature ries.

» 1/3 cup sugar

—Andrea Worby, '12 » 1 large egg -Emily Beer, '12

Ifyou are lookingfor treatsIn Poughkeepsle, try Cafl'e Aurora whosefestive window ispictured above. Located On Mill Street, thecafe offers avariety of Italian pastries, cakes and coffees.

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE HOLIDAY December 9, 2010 13

SPECIAL SECTION

Secret Santa Solutions

all the members of favorite club like family, but we un- you thought you knew your

secret be at Soderstand that when the time comes for Santa, Elf or Snowtlake, you might

and find the for the whose name a loss. So, check out this gift guide perfect present person

to draw. you didn't expect

For the history buff

a rare from Collections A scavenger huntleadingto book Special

' For the sports fan 2 A bobble head .

For the craftyfashionista of 3 Needles, yarn and a copy Vogue Knitting

For the tech junkie,who's young at heart 4 A novelty USB drive

For theparty animal

5 A case of Red Bull

For the librarylurker

6 A case ofRed Bull

For the secret crush

7 Baked goods and a personalnote

For thegamer 8 X-box Live points

For the chef 9 A home-made recipe book

For the Miscellanyreporter

usual If\ Street U A window mannequins of a bridalshop on Main have taken a breakfrom their Quotes!

can be seen the weddingattirefor morefestive apparel. Similarlyspirited sights throughout city.

-BULL AND BUDDHA— I

RESTAURANT . SUSHI, LOUNGE

mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmiimm i —«—■

FROM I IPM-lAM EVERY FR I

laMP A G N E ERU N C H E SUN.'

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE OPINIONS December 9,2010 14

Palestinians Obama's compromise on tax cuts cowardly

who voted for it certainly does not Joseph Hoffheimer voles in favor, the legislation nonetheless change,

Guest Columnist like we it. failed, since it did not meet the mythical look got obstruct Senate Democrats have not of 60 votes for Thankfully, path concluding a recent article on number necessary passage. caved into the plan yet, and Afterhow the Democratic Party allowed Although Republicans have obstructively president's to the threshold filibus- a diverse continues support Republicans to hypocritically run against used this new to silently group of the most as ter almost of with- expiration egregious cuts, to their own policies while the Democrats every piece legislation lasting peace once did in 2008. New out ever a the Senate candidate Obama tailed to have a coherent message, I held opening phone book,

used reconciliation, a York Senator Charles Schumer recently out silent hope that the Democrats could could have process should of to shared a sentiment that all cuts RexHuxfor draw a line with the requiring a majority votes pass GuestColumnist party-defining repeal simple until Obama can attach his name of the Bush tax cuts. However, the bills in the House. Moreimpor- expire week, the festival of lights, or Ilanukkah, worst originating to a new series of middle class cuts, while in handling this tantly, this practice originated with bud- Lastbegan on Dec. I. And what did the Palestin- incompetence displayed one of the most criti- matters in lame duck sessions and perhaps surprising ian Authority do to coincide with the. Jewish issue has marginalized the Obamaadminis- getary cuts. cisms has come from Louisiana Senator even what we saw this was used to the Bush tax holiday? They published a report that attempted tration beyond past pass Landrieu, who criticized the "moral In reality, we now know this Mary to deny the Jewish connection to the Western November. legisla- of the Bush tive was a as Obama's corruptness" fully renewing Wall. It is actions like this from the Palestinians The process of events goes something process just game, what tax cuts when the unprecedented further Bush a series of tax cuts real plan simply asks Republicans that continue to stall progress in the Middle like this. signed of tax cuts to the want and then it to them. Be- redistribution wealthy East. in 2001 and 2003, which mostly expire at they gives said comes at a time which her home The dol- cause someone on Fox News during The Western Wall is locatedin the Old City,or the end of this year. trillion-plus probably hard hit. The or has state has been Tem- lar cuts affected from taxes Obama did not enough particularly eastern Jerusalem. The Wall surrounds the everything compromise and Democratic could use more of that on investments "socialist" economic Republi- Party ple Mount, a revered site for all the Abrahamic income to and, although policies, ofrhetoric now. involved middle class can Senate MinorityLeader Mitch McCon- type right religions, but particularly Judaism. They believe some cuts taxes, continued his unending filibuster Ohio Governor Ted Strickland, who lost that this is the site where God created Adam they largely followed failed trickle-down nell has a reflection made a similar theories that lined the threats, Obama decided to accept the Re- tough bid, and where the biblical patriarch Abraham was economic pockets observation when he criticized Obama's buddies. More definitionof compromise, which asked to sacrifice his only son, Isaac. The Wall ofBush's Texas oil recently, publican to the hy- own still in inability frame his policies and surrounded the second Jewish temple, which political controversy has surrounded the means to bypass your party houses and of obstructive Republican actions extension of income tax cuts for the control of both Congressional pocrisy was destroyed by Rome in 70 C.E., according upper demands. If in wider terms. Importantly, he or so ofAmericans. cave in to Republican populist to The Jerusalem Post. Today the Wall—where two percent entirely inabil- a what was confounded by the Democrats' visitors notes of The redistribution of to the na- fully adopt Republican policy, often pray and place prayer—is money you of a to get thepoint across that Republicans considered the second holiest site in Judaism. tion's wealthiest citizens has negatively becomes the point calling yourself ity care (Bush tax cuts) are even Democrat? Even though the Democrats "don't if they paid A visit to the Wall is considered a very somber affected our economic equality, and un- for and don't think it is a problem ifitcon- Reserve a compromise involving and sacred experience. The Palestinian Author- Federal Chair Ben Bernanke re- gained tiny the also do not between benefits, those would expire tributes to the deficit," but ity should respect this sort of reverence but cently criticized the growing gap employment middle class much earlier, while the Bush/Obama tax want to "extend unemployment benefits to instead they take another, inflammatory route. the rich, poor, and shrinking if aren't for be- one of the cuts for the would continue into working people they paid Knowing that Ilanukkah was about to begin, in this country. Warren Buffett, wealthy deficit." next term. cause they contribute to the the Palestinian Ministry ofInformation released most admired and successful businessmen the presidential mounted that My is, what is Obama waiting Senator Tom Harkin perhaps a study claiming that Jews had no historical con- in the world, has refuted the notion question ofthe administration In to for? he not that only 26 of the greatest criticism nectionto the Western Wall. fact, according Obama is "not pro-business enough" and Does get percent think if the continuation of tax when he said, "I just that, [Obama] Reuters, the report made the incredulous claim even said he could pay more in taxes. One Americans support

as caves on this, then I think that he's gonna of the would think someone of Buffett's stature cuts for the extremely wealthy, reported that the Wall was actually part Al-Aqsa a lot of swimming upstream." Asked a recent CBS poll, whilea large majority have Mosque complex, which happens to be the third could serve as the perfect spokesman for by their Furthermore, how what he would do if Obama decided to holiest site in Islam. Thisclaim is demonstrably Obama to reach out to business interests supports repeal? cave to failed Harkin the administration much ofthat 26 made up a similar- Republican policies, false and represents a blatant propaganda effort or, in the very least, percent countered that Obama would be state Buffett's sized that continued to support "just hop- by thePalestinians to convincepeople thatJewish could prominently agree- ly minority and that Sarah Palm gets the ment with its Bush through the end of his lastterm? How ing praying claims to the Wall are illegitimate, thus showing policies. stilllike to much ofthat same thinks Obama nomination." I,however, would that Israel's existence is historically unfounded. However, Obama has now proven to be minority unlike Sarah Obama has After the is a Muslim or a terrorist or a socialist or hope that, Palm, This report was counterproductive to the no ordinary politician. House after re- some other form of "evil" for which they not decided to cowardly give up only already fragile peace process, so much so that passed a fairly equitable compromise two after condemnation from Israel and the United pealing tax cuts for the wealthy but extend- would never vote? Maybe not all people in years. for the middle the Senate this bracket believe that, but the Tea Party States, the Palestinian Authority pulled the re- ing those class,

— an urban studies major some framed has both propagated those views and re- Joe Hoffheimer '12 is port and asserted that the report is not the po- voted on what in the media College ceived enormous financial backing from and Treasurer of the Vassar Democrats. sition of the Authority. If this is the case, why as "Obama's plan," which essentially called us same Witha of extreme pockets of wealth. For those of was the report published at all? The answer is for the proposal. majority 53

that there are a lot of individuals within the

Authority who remain committed to hindering ADVERTISEMENT any chance for peace. The Palestinians have, for to claim to years, attempted stake traditionally *****»"•* Bank and ►i ****** J**,i* |fc $jf Ur> W'-U |4' SB Jewish holy sites on the West in East cjj '&££ j§ j J | ' Jerusalem. And to further inflame the situation, Palestine recently petitioned the United Na- Scientificand Cultural tions Educational, Orga- IBS ;'P|fj i zn f. « nization to declare Jewish burial sites in Bethle-

hem and Hebron as Palestinian sites, according

to The Jerusalem Post. This revisionist propaganda isn't the only ' w" ,n J Clicit mal W*i»t**liftn. gg il»«i tomc** l»v« I obstacle being thrown up by anti-Israel forces, LrttShift and Opt lor atMitwutaptktftt. I ~ llamas, the terrorist organization, along with have banded 12 other radical Islamic groups, together with the intent of derailing the peace umbrella process. This terrorist organization & has engaged in drive-by shootings and murders of lews who have returned to land that is consid- I for us. SI ered by some to be illegally settled. Palestinian Design Authority President Mahmoud Abbas deserves ith-mu' TV I 'I * /CCA J i&Op*tt*Tiwr£l\ he did use his security force some credit because l\ E-mail »m to crack down on this gang of terrorists. Those [email protected]

of us who wish for a settlement to this age-old

dispute hope that Abbas continues to do so. only for more information. ...□- The Israeli-Palestinianconflict has been with I us for years, and no one is expecting these prob-

what we should lems to go away overnight. But expect is for the Palestinians to behave as if

they truly want peace. They shouldn't be pub-

lishing reports, especially on the eve of Ilanuk- kah, that attempt to delegitimize Jews and the

state of Israel. The Palestinians and the Israelis

should be engaging in good faith negotiations.

we willstill be Ifnot, 10 years from now talking about this matter. Israelis will still live behind

walls and have to pass through metal detectors while the Palestinians will still to go shopping, be stuck in poverty. It is important, not just for the Middle East, but for the entire global

community that we all work towards a peaceful settlement. However, for this to be done,

the Palestinian Authority must decide whether

they want true peace or to continue go on hat- ing Israelis.

—Rex Huxford '13 is undeclared.

MISCELLANY NEWS I VASSAR COLLEGE 15 December 9,2010 OPINIONS

Bush undeserving ofpraise in AIDS fight Technology is

Africa." Hannah Blume Bush pledged to spend $15 billion The act Columnist too Guest a Bush was never keen on civilrights. In was later expanded in 2008 to stunning S4B a tool we must Fox enthusias- the first ofhis book, he plainly states of former President George W. billion over five years. News chapter the War lauded how hisinterest to serve in Vietnam MostBush's recent memoir Decision Points tically PEPFAR as, "a game-changer" for Africa. Newsweefc called it the "jewel" of to stop the spread ofcommunism superseded was utterly unsurprising: "John introduced to use civil To him, the war learn Even Bill Clinton said that his interest in rights. me to the Aussie traditionof drinking beer his foreign policy. So what tre- was clearly a more weighty issue. teeth on the PEPFAR, despite its flaws, "has done a with no hands. You put your do celebrate World AIDS last TECHNOIXKJY continuedfrom page a mendous amountof good." did Bush to Day edge of the mug and tilt your head back, and this method is Bush him- week? Americans to get tested? Take In fact, increasingly popu- throat." The whole But nobody seems prouder than Urge the beer goes down your Obama did to lar in some academic circles. Some adminis- book, he refers to it as "a medical an HIV test himself, as Barack thing, appropriately, screamed "George W!" self. In his as include an iPhone for Marshall Plan." The following publicly address the stigma in 2006? No—he trations go so far to From the picture sprawled across the first version ofthe student, as Abilene Chris- with ac- wrote an in The Washington Post de- every incoming former feature a picture of him AIDS op-ed two pages of the president heroically pages a of national tian has done. Here is a descrip- and rock star Bono—sporting his claring AIDS in Africa matter University conquering the twin tower rubble with his tivist U2 national is tion of the from Wired magazine: the Oval Office next to a pho- security: "No security strategy program megaphone, to the pride he took in his firm- sunglasses—in "The initiative's was to how the women Ameri- in the run without promoting goal explore the advancement ofstem cell to of five Tanzanian waving complete long ness instopping and economic always-connected iPhone might revolution- can in matching dresses with George global health, politicalfreedom research even in the face of Nancy Reagan's flags with a dash of Bush lived to thissame incessant ize the classroom Bush's beaming face plastered across their progress." up experience request to the contrary, to his lengthychapter to turn in to form ofhuman digital interactivity. Thinkweb apps on chests. The reads: "An interesting need place every suffering on Afghanistan and his even lengthier one caption war shared his homework, look watch lec- fashion statement in Dares Tanza- in terms of when he thoughts up campus maps, Iraq: All standard-issue. Allexcept one chap- Salaam, schedules and on about the aftermath of Katrina: "This is what ture and check class on Katrina nia. For some reason these didn't catch podcasts ter. Tucked between the chapters classroom participation, there's back home." he tries to make light it looks likewhen a nuclear bomb explodes, I grades. For and the surge are 22 pages dedicated to the Though on to describe the "chaos even software for Abilene students to of his at the reasons are thought." He went polling formerpresident's account ofhis fight against unpopularity home, noted raise their hand." Such technologi- Much of Bush's was and violence in New Orleans," and digitally AIDS in Africa. The largely self-congratulato- blatantly clear: energy cal works better for after the directed abroad instead of towards domestic- how "looters smashed windows to steel guns, integration undoubtedly ry chapter is titled, "Lazarus Effect," clothing, and jewelry." Bush concluded, "The some disciplines than for others, but by fig- name coined by Africans that likens the ef- issues. out how to teach with the record on AIDS in the United only solution was a stronger troop presence." uring technology, fect ofanti-retroviraldrugs to Jesus' resurrec- Bush's the students use their tech- it is nonexistent. In Those "looters" are America's most defense- program helps tion of Lazarus. Biblical imagery aside, there States is bleak. In fact, more rather than not matter of national security. Yet, it nology academically, plac- our country's urban populations, less, a is more at stake here. Although Bush insists, poorest offensive and to Bush to them ing academics on the treating as devastating as in Af- seems take a disaster for pay "Only history will judge my presidency," he AIDS is just many a as to be eradicated. It Bush rican countries. intention in criticizing two seconds ofattention, let alone chapter technology something has no problem trying to tipthe scale. As My students use the Internet for academic- Bush is not to discount the ofthe in his book. helps obsesses over "the verdict" of his presidency, enormity a but it af- as well as the distractionthat comes ofAIDS in but to out AIDS in Africa is catastrophe, purposes it is becoming all too clear that his crusade problem Africa, point to them naturally. If never learn how, if of that he displayed as flicts about a million Americans, too, and they against AIDS in Africa is a one-size-fits-all the level neglect are never how to do this, it is not for towards America's most vulner- don't deserve to be ignored by their they taught tool to secure his legacy. Neocons love it president they for those that technology is used more for able citizens. A recent report by the Center president. Bush enacted PEPFAR surprising its use ofAmerican power abroad; evangeli- distraction than academic involvement in the Control and Prevention reveals in Africa, but he didn't get behind a health cals for its altruism; conservatives foritscon- for Disease fellow citizens in need. classroom. the statisticthat Americans living care billfor his They nections to nationalsecurity; and anyone else chilling book. The But it doesn't have to be that Technology at the same don't even a chapter in his way. for its numbing agreeability. And the "La- or below the poverty level have get ends his Post can be into the classroom where use- recent rate HIV/AIDS as Ethiopians or former president Washington integrated zarus Effect" seems to be working: A of Angolans and students can be to use it with re- account column with a of advice to Congress: ful, taught Gallup poll shows Bush's approval ratings as of 2.4 percent. African Americans piece this "Continue America's global fight against spect, but only ifwe do not blame technology for to Obama's. As Bush at- for 46 percent ofall HIV infections in roughly equivalent to seem like its job. Like tool, we must learnhow 12 AIDS." Though that fight may doing any tempts to restore the nice-guy image he used country, though they comprise percent or an extraneous use it.That means not only whatto do with it, but of the The chance of a black "an anomaly," detail, "lit to ascend to the White House, the American population. do with with other is] something for which America will be re- what not to it. As pedagogi- public needs to hold him accountable for his woman contracting the disease is 15 times cal tools, teachers have a responsibility to teach a white woman. In to what membered." When history judges George W. public health policy while in office. that of response rather than condemn a hammer for ofhis Bush himself calls "the worst moment" of Bush, I hope it holds him to hisown standard its use, being It is a largely obscured fact presiden- hurts if hit to "anomalies," how- a hammer, just because it you Bush launched the his presidency—hearing harsh accusations of paying attention the your cy that George W. single ever small seem. thumb with it. largest governmental public health project ofracism in regard to his response to Ka- they may The trina—he has no PEPFAR. focused on a single disease in history. problem recalling — a media studies at — at major himself "I launched a Hannah Blume '13 is a sociology major Kelsey Forest 'II is formerpresident's Emergency Plan For AIDS He defends by saying, Vassar billion to combat in Vassar College. College. Relief(PEPFAR) was instituted in 2003, when $15 program HIV/AIDS

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MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE SATIRE December9,2010 16 HUMOR &

OPINIONS

Blogging from abroad: Your personal guide

is Brittany Hunt Nov. 2: Even in the rain this place Guest Columnist beautiful. It's like SO romantic. I feel

re- like I'm in a honor ofour comrades either painting.

Inturning from or preparing to go Ju- 16: will never believe niorYear Abroad (or JYA, as the cool Nov. You guys it: I'M met ethnic- kids say), I've created a template for IN LOVE! I [insert

a barand we've the perfect abroad blog. Because who sounding name here) at ever since! Seriously, has time to write original thoughts been inseparable

let me leave the house with- when they're so busy soaking up cul- he doesn't out him. He that I'm his now ture, right? says girl

and no other man can have me. It's so

romantic!! [Insert guys are Sept. 3: lust got off the plane in [in- nationality] I be- the I'm so over American boys. sert country here]! OMG can't best, lieve I'm finally here after a like 100 18: I miss Vass friends sooooo million hour plane ride. Everything is Nov. my away has only made me so beautiful here, it's like a fairy tale! much! My time skills realize how much I love that place. [In- I can already feel my language name here] improving. This is going to be the best sert same ethnic-sounding

I are kind of a rocky semester ever!!! and going through phase. He started calling me his "little

for the lack of American whore" but like, in a cute Sept. 23: Sorry updates,

so host mother but I've been like, SO busy. It's amaz- way. He's funny. My

used to a me dinner because she ing how quickly you can get stopped giving from home. WHOA. I shower too much and it's wast- place so far away says her water. Like, that I'm not Sorry for getting so deep, I've just ing sorry in and like her! She doesn't been thinking a lot about my place gross smelly

ew. alsosaid that all this world lately. I feel like I'm finally shave her pits, She

are fat so it will be good for finding myself, you know? It's like I'm Americans not have dinner. 1 tried to explain in Eat Pray Love, only I don't believe me to that the poor ones are fat, but the in God and I'm on a no-carb diet. Any- only barrier was tough and she way, my host mother is like SO FRIG- language

understand me. 1 want a GIN ADORABLE I luv her. I feel like didn't friggin MISS BACIO'S. she's really family, except she's getting hamburger. OMG I the Canvas A weekly highlighting thecreativegenius ofstudent-artistes. paid to love me. Can't wait to go to Campus space na- tt: FINALS!! I have class once club tonight with my new .[insert Dec. only have had to read an EN- tionality herd girlfriends! GONNA BE a week, but I TheTwelve Weeks ofthe Semester FOUR PAGE Waking inBed After aShit-Showy Evening CRAY!!! TIRE BOOK and write A up twelfthweek ofVassar, college to me: are think know. Onthe my gave PAPER already! Like, I signed on for Whose pants these I I is Twelve pages printing, abroad, not like,for doing school Theirhouse inthe TAs, though; Oct. 11: I've been having a lot of me going Eleven waiting, feel like going I wonder how they made it home readings lime lately. 1 just sit in this cozy little- work all the time. I Ten Deece mealsdining, all of this has really As last fills me up withwoe. cafe on the corner and do a lot of peo- through changed night Nine hipsters dancing, ple watching. I've filled four Moleskine me. I'm so much more independent Tuesdays tasting, later, BF is stomachfeels a littlequeer Eight notebooks with just like poetry and my now. Ughhhh g2g update my My don't he'll From lastnight's cavalcade ofbeer Seven squirrels scurrying, observations and stuff. Sometimes I get here and said if I hurry up Six stoners smoking, Lars. roughly eight drinksin; I me to his friend LOL, he's hi- I blacked-out so wrapped in it that forget that I'm give up Five The darkest ofthe thesis drafts, are so differ- larious. evening year. in a Starbucks. Things just Four Loko, ent here. Like, the elevators are really Three days, to leave. I am I drank much more than I had planned grace small. And they don't put ice in your Dec. 18: It's finally time Two stray cats, to home and see friends, Because Four Loko's being banned; soda. What's up with that?Even though excited get my The in brain Anda nightat the library are but I will miss this I feel like it's painful pounding my it's so different some things exactly place. it a bitchto standt. a second home. I'm a lot more [insert Is making the same. —Michael Mestitz '12, Columnistand Poet, is a triple major nationality] than I am American. They in medieval andRenaissance studies, philosophy and me here, know? So much The sewed, guess reap. Oct. 28: OMG So drunk like totally be- just get you night I I I He will be thespring semester But I strict deadlinesto keep, economics. spending studying m so much Thereare so have lig McDonald's for a latenight with y art, history. many at Oxford and believes a good argyle sweater—with a And milesto beforeI sleep, [Insert continent] is amazing museums here that I'll miss go girlllllllieeessss!!!! socks—is in of And milesto before sleep. matching always vogue. of lot, even I didn't to any go I the best I had like 11 shots tequillllla! though go them. caraist night fmy life!!!

Weekly Calendar: 12/9 - 12/15 by AlannaOkun, Humor & Satire Editor

and a home. Your resume* will thank you, you might finally 6 Measure Measure Final Concert. Every time group THURSDAY, 12/9 p.m. 4 a chance to talk to that hottie with the pierced septum the word "sister," or "tampon," get Break once the all- member or sings "lady," 3 p.m. Tea. Four ways to spend Winter says or whatever. Rose Parlor. variation of the term who's all about "philanthropy" take a shot. Finish drink if any too-briefburst ofholiday joy and cheer has faded. Rose Par- your * accent marks? Pretensh much? 200. Really? Two Although, lor. "girl power" is deployed. Rocky I must admit, not quite as self-congratulatory as the term

across the "curriculum vitae." GTFO your- If SATURDAY, 12/11 employed pond, drama "Zooey." 3 p.m. Independent project: Incidentally, Brits. Devils Concert. time you're selves, Club 7 p.m. Vassar Final Drink every you don't attend, you're a complete phony. Kenyon Devils that they're not serving actual Vassar Room. disappointed melodies. needs her 60,000 TUESDAY, 12/14 alongside their dulcet Mama to little 3 p.m. Tea. Tell mom you'd be happy drive your calories, team. Hall. your Axles Final Concert. And thus we enter the Taylor 9:30 p.m. gaunt- alarm because brother to school.then sleep through your order to make them more let of a cappella final concerts. In school starts in an "off- how goddamn early non-college each Owls Final Concert. Drink whenever you forgot enjoyable, I have devised a list ofdrinking' games for 9 p.m. Night a Owl real life.Rose Parlor. Drink time sincerely worried hand" reference to how Meryl Streep was once Night group. First up: every you're furnished or made.* Caveat: all drinks must be pink, and by that Matt Bourne will burst a blood vessel during "With is to this is a 6 p.m. ECVC "Free For AH." I like think that Andre and/or Rossi. Rocky 200. Without You." Rocky 300. Messers brawl all the members ofECVC • EightClub-style involving course. thisone. • "Drinks" meaning juice/water/Go-Gurt, of Including (which stands for the Episcopal Church of Vassar Col-

out ofone another. SUNDAY, 12/12 lege, obvs) beating the living daylights FRIDAY, 12/10 ever around here, you guys. and Intramural Fencing Tournament. Something about Nothing interesting happens Tea. new life skill: knitting. Mandarin, 4 p.m. 3 p.m. Learn a an bad idea Jade Parlor. so now. intramural fencing just seems like inherently semi-professional dirt-bike racing are all hot right arm total randos with to me. it's the part where they Rose Parlor. Maybe 12/15 nuts. WalkerField House. WEDNESDAY, sharp weaponry and let them go the Tea. until we're finally back in 3 p.m. Count the days ASA Curry Cook-OfT. is also so hot right now. 6 p.m. Curry of ol' 12/13 weird, wonderful, slightly smothering embrace good end ofthe semester for thisguy, MONDAY, (I'm son y, everyone, it's the VC. Rose Parlor. Volunteer at a local animal shelter or old-folk's too.) College CenterMPR. 3 p.m. Tea.

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE 17 I JH

Last week, we printed 38,3 15 words.

(That's about 120 standard typed pages, or two or three theses.)

And we always need more.

Next semester, join The Miscellany Newsl Write for News, Features, Opinions,

Humor & Satire, Arts and Sports.

Words not your thing? Try out photography,

multimedia, design or advertising. Email [email protected] for information.

866 Available online at Vassar's newspaper of record since 1 | niiscellanynews.com

_—————______i ARTS December 9,2010 18

Stand-up finds a home on Zooey sans Franny: Salinger for the Vassar campus in Comedynormative adapted stage Lila Teeters Sharavsky brought her piece to the actors- ContributingEditor Ben Morrow '11, Andrew Davidson '11, Domi- Gudas Andi Sharavsky '11 began to write and no Gehred-O'Connell '11 and Brittany Asthen direct her adaptation of J.D. Salin- '11—for the first readings. This process was a to ger's short story "Zooey" this semester, she hallmark of Sharavsky's process according this harbored no delusions as to what the de- the director herself and Tucker. During

ceased author's reaction would have been. time, Tuckerwrote in an e-mailed statement,

can moments the "Salinger would hate me probably," declared "The cast help to clarify lin feel wouldn't Sharavsky confidently. "This is so not okay text]. One actress may say, T I

that...' These are all that Andi with him.He's rolling over in his grave." say questions with." Despite Salinger's explicit aversion tofilm dealt and theatricaladaptations of his work, Shar- For Sharavsky, this was one of the more of the "We avsky decided to use the final year of her rewarding experiences project: would read would to hear Vassar career to complete something she'd through it, I get "been dreaming about for awhile": turning it, I got their feedback on if things were too confused by herfavorite short story intoa play. long, uneccesary, were they any- After receiving the support of the Dra- thing? And then I'd go back, and few weeks

embarked on a afterthat we started it up." ma Department, Sharavsky just putting for the semester-long independent study with As- While Sharavsky had written sistant Professor ofDrama Shona Tucker in Drama Department before, this was her and which Sharavsky drafted and revised a com- first time directing being responsible plete script, all while taking her first pass for "putting...up" a show. "It was really in-

credible on the other side of at directing. The debut of Sharavsky's work being things," "because when will occur today and tomorrow at 3 p.m. in Sharavsky reflected, you're

are a of wor- the Kenyon Club Room, as Sharavsky's dedi- an actor- there lot things you about: the choices?'... cated crew of actors perform her adaptation. ry 'Am I making right out, what's what's The process of this adaptation was far What's standing working,

on the other side of frompainless for Sharavsky. "1 first took out not?' And when you're it,

stuff see what stands out, and what's working, a ton of books on adopting and lots of you

now I on Salinger and did research on some of the and it's this lovely give and take that know how to do bet- themes of the text—it was kind of a dense have directed, I things

forest to navigate atfirst," she said. ter in performance." The however, will not end with Realizing she was getting lost in this for- process,

and Tucker em- est, Sharavsky decided to take a more organ- Friday's showing. Sharavsky ic approach and returned to the text, pulling phasized that the script and the production out the moments and themes she enjoyed are still evolving. And, as Sharavsky noted, reading the most. Overall, Sharavsky said, "though [the play] will not be put up again this that she stayed loyal to Salinger's imagining of next semester, I'll have script hope- life be able the story. fully some other time in my I'll to After finishing a draftover October Break, use."

in a liveau- Above, a memberofComedynormatlve takes to thestagetoperform stand-up comedy frontof art dience. Comedynormative isthe onlygroupon campus thatisexclusivelydedicated to the ofstand-up. Camerata concert takes on one of the regular Comedynormative meetings ErikLorenzsonn basement. This ArtsEditor held in Davison system keeps

comedians the to aficionado ofstand- yearsago, aspiring stand-up group open anyone Marian themes for Two few in which to share comedy. holidays had opportunities up with the is their zingers, gasses and gags. Andy Billings '12 "My experience group positive, being there," Shruti Manian who play traditional Baroque instruments was such a comedian; for lack ofanything else, because everyone's justreally into Reporter such as the violin, cello, bass and the harpsi- he forayed into sketch comedy. "I do No Of- said Billings. a chord. all know each other from orches- these the members not the semester drawing to a close, "We fense," said Billings. "I'm glad I ended up doing During meetings, but also their craft Withhint of Christmas is beginning tra or chambermusic classes and the dynam- thatbecause it's a lot offun. But I really wanted only plan events, develop spirit to to ofthe fes- ic we have as a is so important our as well: routines and hone their spread across campus. In light group to do stand up, and there really wasn't anything they organize will music."said DeGennaro. else besides Indecent Exposure." jokesto maximize the laughter. tive atmosphere, the Vassar Camerata to a concert that celebrates music about TheCamerata had the opportunity learn Indecent Exposure does indeed do stand-up, "You think you know what funny is," said hold learn what real is the from the eminent Baroque group, Aulos En- but the troupe is all-femaleand mixes stand-up Bouchard. "But you funny Virgin Mary. was said ina master classearlier this One It the "I think it when I four," semble, year. with sketch and media-based comedy. was through group." began Sohval believes that the work have co-Director ofthe Vassar Camerata EllenDc- ofthe highlights of the year for the Camerata, not until last year that Dan Sohval '13 intro- they put of own for it is also bound to make a distinct difference Vassar com- into the material has been Gennaro '12 her passion Baroque duced a new entry in the batch of developing paying with attendance for shows. music. "I had this crush on Vivaldi be- in the caliber of their music. edy organizations: Comedynormative, a group dividends, higher huge at cause would listento this that narrated "The lesson withAulos came the perfect that is exclusively dedicated to the perfor- His favorite memory from Comedynormative I tape our well then and October, which the his life-story and think it was amazing. I'd time. We knew notes very mance of stand-up comedy. Following a quiet remains a show fromthis in the Aulos us work on our turnout blew him take a squashracquet and a rulerand begin to helped musicality inaugural year, the underground organization away. and This will add to what to in terms of playing the violin."DeGennaro is the expression. definitely Comedynormative has taken the Vassar com- "I didn't know expect pretend ensemble's there is also our at this concert," said Dc- of successful but it was so said Sohval."It was director of the choir; performance munity by storm, thanks to a slew turnout, great,"

to see so a directorfor the other sectionof the group, Gennaro. performances and a growing membership. great many people laugh." music often has a also successful in that thereis a the orchestra. Though Baroque very Sohval founded the group because ofhis own The group is the to at- for and his lot of in their material; each individual The Vassar Camerata—an ensemble that niche following, Camerata hopes desire for a campus venue stand-up, variety added tract a wider audience from the with the has their own in Baroque music—has its community belief instand-up as a uniquebranch ofcomedy performer group unique specializes for thisconcert. "Once listen to the music brand ofhumor. for distinct voice to Vassar's music scene since you thatdeserved its own venue on campus. Billings, example, specializ- the of Vassar-related where- it was founded in The era is and begin to appreciate simplicity it, "It's the most frightening thing inthe world," es in political and humor, 2004. Baroque nerd humor. characterized its intrinsic emotional it's justgorgeous," said DeGennaro. said Sohval. "You stand in front of an audience as Bouchard says he is into by ap- on ofthe organization's forthe draw a lot of stufffrom nerd cul- peal and liveliness and a strong emphasis One goals year and tell jokes that you wrote and hope they like "I my pop Bouchard. last show I talked aspects. It is further characterized is to draw in more people who are passion- it.It's kind oflike a roller coaster." ture," said "My rhythmic hone their talents. and how he wouldtrans- embellishment and done at ate about music to The experience of stand-up is indeed as dy- about Darkwing Duck, by improvisation period late other countries." the whimofthe individualmusician. "The Cameratareally provides people with a namic ofan experience as Sohval describes, as into inan infor- to the will fun to play theirinstruments Comedynormative member Jean-Luc Bouchard As for Sohval, he claims be inspired by For thisconcert, Camerata present way mal said DeGennaro. stand- the likes ofMitch and Andy Kaufman a repertoire ofreligious folk songs, including setting," '14 can testify. He performed his first Hedberg with his routines. such legendary composers as Anto- As the only Baroque ensemble on campus, up routine with the group this past weekend. pieces by a unique for do shorter jokes [and] one- nio Vivaldi and Heinrich Biber. "Sometimes the Camerata provides platform "Last Sunday was a big adrenaline rush," said "I personally what musicians to and with Bouchard. "I thought it went pretty well, the liners," said Sohval. "I'm a big fan of self-dep- it's extremely hard to pick musicto play. explore experiment to There are so that need to period music. In an effort increase the ap- crowd enjoyed it." recation" many things you DeGennaro Sohval and to Com- factorin:what can how hard it isand preciation for Baroque music, Bouchard ispartofthe group's growing mem- company hope keep up you play, who can and the sometimes even how think hopes to first draw out the people bership, which has been one of the contributing edynormative's momentum, is in pro- many songs you but don't find the time the cess of Vassar Student Association can manage," said DeGennaro. play the instruments factors to the group's success. He joined at pursuing you fromthe chieftheme or inclinationto. ofthis certification.Sohval also on Breakingaway slightly very beginning year. plans collaborating of on and of Marian music, the Camerata will play a "When a group people together, "Before I came to Vassar. I had an interest in more withother groups comedy events, you get

to Biber about war. "We to shock and whentheannoying, boring part that keeps stand-up," said Bouchard. "As soon as I walked also perhaps bringing professional stand-up piece hope homework out ofthe we start for students to Whatever the fu- people with this," said DeGennaro. "There is youfrom is way, into the activities fair, someone stood up and campus enjoy. music and it all comes and do ture of might entail, Sohval often this incorrect assumption that Baroque playing together shouted 'Have you ever wanted to stand-up Comedynormative locks ended DeGennaro. fosters a music is boring, and with like this one in beautifully," comedy?' and I shouted back T do, sir!'" is happy as long as the organization pieces at we ■.how audiences how music has The Vassar Camerata will be playing 8 The organization is unique amongst comedy place for laughter: Baroque on Dec. 10 at Skinner Hall of auditions are "I like to see comedic on cam- manyfacets." p.m. Saturday, organizations in that no required just presence The Ensemble consists of musicians Music. to join; in order to join, one need only attend pus." eight

— MISCELLANY NEWS I VASSAR COLLEGE December 9,2010 ARTS 19

'Angels' reflects collaborative shift in senior projects

Cox (whom credits im- Connor O'Neill Janet Wong Reporter mensely), with whom they would

discuss their work each week—the Powerhouse stage was emp- equivalent of a seminar. The group Thety. "Angels in America: Per- also worked with adjunct professor estroika," Tony Kushner's play of Darrell James, who did the fight cho- AIDSand Reagan-era New York, had for the on a and the reography production, wrapped on Saturday night, process called scansion. actors had completely struck the set Explained Conrad Schott 'n, who by Monday. Their senior Drama De- played Joe Pitt, scansion is "a way partment project was complete, and of a text to use remained marking your script only a few of the students in the best way possible." Wong put in the basement of the Vogelstein it in a different perspective: "It's an Centerfor Drama and Film. analysis of the text that leads us to an The senior project is a venture idea ofthe world ofthe play." into one aspect of a theatrical per- Although the department was formance of an individual's design. there to help them see the possibili- Muchlike the senior thesis, the proj- tiesofthat world, the project was ful- ect is developed over time by the stu- ly realized by the students involved. dent in conjunction witha professor. it "It was a big endeavor to do our- "Angels in America," for instance, selves, without an on-set faculty di- was the senior project of nine mem- rector," said Thulin, "but it was born bers of the cast and crew, who were out ofour own creative processes." advised by Professor of Drama Chris Wong quickly added, "We were Grabowski. However, this produc- dedicated to collaboration—we ei- tion isrepresentative ofa shift in the ther made our decisions together or approach to the senior project, with ones who were inter-student trusted the making a greater focus now on them." collaboration. The now laughs about mo- Kate Thulin 'n and Serena Wong group ments of panic, in which they wor- 'ii granted me an interview as they ried that they might have bitten off moved around the racks of hanging more than could chew. Bourne a The chose to perform the play as they lights and boxes of hardware while The cast of "Angels in America" huddles before performance. group collaboratively would that it a interms the level student in the occasionally joke might othermembers ofthe cast popped in theirseniorproject in theDrama Department. Thisproject is first of of autonomy process. be an epic failure, but O'Brien, who and out oftheroom. It was theirfinal and Thulin refereed to his consult- in addition to directing played an an- as collaborators The work last winter brought signs ofa change in the proj- properday together group began countered that "It was whenthe director and the actors as "invaluable." gel, by saying, and they bore the unmistakable look with meetings to read the parts and ect, ing a failure because the three roles After September, however, the never going to be of pride and reliefseeping through discuss the play, laying the collab- who would play main "That we allcared so much." a the show to the took hold of the reins. exhaustion on theirfaces. orative foundation for what year proposed depart- group to Thulin added, "What it going but it was not until this was when we started get our legs," kept And they have certainly earned later would be the crown of their ment, year intellectual and emotional a had Thulin. "When [Grabowski] was our their moment of tranquility. "Angels collegiate drama careers. The Drama that fully inclusive group pro- says on connection to the not stu- an show, wouldn't be there, we had to it play." in America: Perestroika," the second Department does require posed and organized entire go new collective to from and directors to our own." The approach part of the renowned two-part epic, dents to complete a senior project, actors stage designers. Matthew Bourne '11, who played the senior project might have been ran from Wednesday Dec. i through but as production designer Wong managers and production but that all of a work with "We were kind ofthe Louis Ironson and shared directo- stressful, something Saturday, Dec. 4 and was the culmi- explained, "Its chance to guineapigs," with Michele the look back on fondly. the that want to work explained Wong."Our project shows rial duties Thulin, participants nationofalmosta year's work for people you with, went to could off to- O'Brien '11 and Charlie O'Malley '11, "We really for it," said Thulin. cast and crew. develop a community withpeople how much people pull The as Bourne is and love." how much we could points towards their training in the hope, explained, From its genesis last year the thatyou know gether, seeing new the one we fol- on our own." Drama as an explana- that "the model, project has been a collaborative ef- Community has been the motto get Department And not to that the facul- tion ofwhy the collaborative process lowed, will become the staple." fort. Thulin explained that she had from the start. In years past the for- That is say come a the has made a com- for the had been more was not involved in the worked: "We from similar group certainly been thinking a lot about "Angels mat project ty project. for the continued Professor of vocabulary." That vocabulary was pelling argument in America," having worked on the role-based. A director might propose Drama Christopher was the advisor not only from their first uses ofthis process. show in high school, and discussed it a project to the department and the Grabowski group's developed The of the last words of the Drama De- and served as the director for the three in the department, but irony withclassmates each year ofcollege. casting be done by the years of "Millennium Approach- also with the help of the depart- play, "the great work begins," is not Finally, last year, having found her- partment board, or an actor would reading board. lost on the as they pack the a show because of a role es," one of "Angels in America," ment's Experimental Theater group up selfin a group oflike-minded drama propose part The worked with members of last ofthe light filters and grab their students, the opportunity presented that he or she would like to play which was performed in Septem- group ber. in the lauded the board, includingGrabowski and jackets, proud but sad that there itselffor the group to pursue their and have a professor direct the play. Everyone group done. of "Hamlet" Grabowski's help in their project, visiting Adjunct Instructor ofDrama wasn't more work to be own production. Last year's performance

Drama 102 finals boast cult following within department

and Part of about soundscapes and accessing his- ErikLorenzsonn The semiannual "Hamletmachine" perfor- pastiche of Shakespeare antiquity. creating Arts Editor to order to toric images." mances are so unique that they have gained a the class is devoted research in get

addition to a creative to cult with classmen who have a on the of Miiller. In posing challenge Schau '12 saw her first performance following upper grasp pithy postmodernism these images, the class, "Hamletmachine" also tests the stu- Kristenof Heiner Muller's postmodernist drama takenthe class inthe past. "It's like a rite of pas- "Miillergives you extraordinary of the to there," said dents to see if have met the goals "Hamletmachine" in the middle of Noyes Cir- sage," said Professor of Drama Gabrielle Cody, but he doesn't tell you how get they class: the to work collaboratively on dra- were who teaches the course with Professor Cody. "Students do a lot of research on East ability cle last December. A group of students along because of and postmodern theater and Miil- ma productions, and the ability to test whether performing the piece for their Introduction to of Drama Jane Cox. "Perhaps that, Germany with of a intent conveyed to the Theater Making final, and decided to interpret people who tookthe course inthe past show up ler. They then begin to grapple issues performance's gets text. And then do start audience. These two ideas are subtly imple- the text with two ofcharacters engaging in co- to watch. I think it has to do with a ritualized postmodern only they the the the dead ofGertrude. into the to stage." mented throughout semester, though itus on top of body entry department." began But when the rarely course's may not be obvious at first. "There was tons of snow on the ground," The "Hamletmachine" tradition in staging process begins, purpose "It's a class have to into and when first Introduc- does it ever take on an actual stage. One you just jump said Schau. "I kept on thinking how cold it must 2005 Cody began teaching place from wrote She and other of the is to with en- trust that you'll gain something it," have been, and how there was someone having tion to Theater Making. peers project's goals experiment "I under- the vironment, that take Batts. think most of us didn't really sexon top of another person who's supposed in the Drama Department had just moved meaning performances from Circle to the stand the value or the 'point' of what we were to be dead," It may have been a jarring sight class from the 200-level to the introductory place everywhere Noyes was on and basement of Davison House. Sarah Lazarus doing until the class over." to see during finals week in Noyes Circle, but level since the emphasis interaction element of was her in the most Nevertheless, it is the creative Schau loved it."It was really gorgeous. It was performance outside ofa classroomsetting '13 performed piece perhaps "Hamletmachine" which makes it such a draw a suitable intothe field. location ofall: the inside the Walk- this ugly act on top of pristine white snow that deemed gateway Cody unique pool the course. McGiff of the er Field House. for alums of Batts, Lazarus, was everywhere." proposed the idea using performance wrote and Schau alike are all excited to be in the au- to to fresh to "My ended in Walker Now it is Schau's turn to perform "Ham- piece pose a challenge students group up pool," in an e-mailed statement. in dience come next semester, when it is time to letmachine"; she is currently enrolled in the the department. Lazarus "Literally dresses while see what the course's next will have to was that we end with a the wading around in long generation course, in which it has become tradition "It my suggestion pool, over to offer. as that was as as this one," said our eerie monologue played use the performance piece the final group piece open Cody. prerecorded have back to see of offers students an to cre- the "i gone performances project. But performing "Hamletmachine" is "It really opportunity speakers." use a wide of 'Hamletmachine' and to in the fu- text, based ate a of work less conventional Performances also variety plan again no easy task:Muller's dense loosely piece through ture,"wrote Batts."It was to look at means." collected about a dozen bags really great on William Shakespeare's "Hamlet," is very props. "My group "Hamletmachine" is indeed notorious for its of trash—real, rancid trash—and the project from a distance and see what other ambiguous and complex. Since it isso interpre- disgusting, arc endless of used it as our main set-feature," wrote Isabella people had come up with. There table, every semester yields a unique batch of openness. It is a loosely-connected string opportunities with this text and so many cre- performances that take place all over campus: monologues without narrative; it is not actu- Batts '12. at a but rather a The "Each class brings to it their own signature ative minds Vassar." "It's such a crazy piece that can never be per- ally play, performance piece. "Hamletmachine" are characters traits," said of the "There This semester's perfor- formed the same way twice," saidOliviaMcGiff monologues deliveredmostly by Cody performances. mances will start at a.m. on Dec. 16 have been some very interesting pieces using Thursday, '14, whoalong with Schau is busy preparing for from "Hamlet," along with some other figures 9 Kids these arc in Sander's Classroom 212. this semester's final. from Greek tragedy, creating a postmodern multimedia. days very savvy

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE ARTS December 9,2010 20

ArtisttheofWeek

Sharavsky does sketch comedy, Salinger and all that jazz

for two summers and I kind of wish I Laura Fisher camp

Guest Reporter had decided to animate for Pixar instead of

That'san easier Sharavsky 'n really is a Renaissance- becoming a writer/performer. Andi she had career let anybody animate woman. When I talked to her, path, right? They'll

concert a for Pixar." finished a play reading, a jazz and "A sort of home movie," is the way comedy show, one after the other. Sitting in prose describes her senior and her Town House with her housemates ands Sharavsky project, of and Zooey which will be friends chatting and laughing reflected just adaptation branny Club Room. The how full of comedy and excitement Shara- featured in the Kenyon project was born out ofher intense passion for the vsky's life is. She is a member of No Offense,

Ensemble, an ac- author of the text. a singer for the Vassar Jazz said novel is my favorite author," tor and has now adapted the Salinger "].D. Salinger read his stories, I'm start Sharavsky. "Every time I (runny und Zooey for the stage that its and so much into her struck by how fascinating messy run today. How does she fit always and how natural and schedule? all of his characters are, beautiful their is." "I think the best thing about Vassar is that dialogue want to do," said For her production of "Zooey," Sharavsky you can do everything you favorite I likean went through the of her Sharavsky. "1 guess before have to live 150 pages about the infamous Glass fam- adult who makes money and does laundry reg- Salinger story cast new and with the of the production's ularly instead of perpetually purchasing ily, help crew turned it a 60-page play. underwear, I want to spend my time doing and into me through the draft- the things I'm truly passionate about with all "They've helped go the script, adding to the the wonderful, talented and inspiring people ing process, cutting of the cast and so etc.," said Sharavsky I know here. And I'm a senior I'm running script, finding ways to embody out of time!" crew. "They're really the Glass and it's really exciting to see Sharavsky has been honing her talents well family, characters that I've been fascinated beforeher arrival at Vassar. She has been sing- literary so long come to life offthe This ing her entire life, although she only began by for page. Be- so enjoyable, and I think our singing jazz when she entered high school. process has been fore that, her repertoire had included mostly work-in-progress showing will be a nice peek been doing." classical pieces. into the work we've will It should be an show, which "I've always sung but I didn't start doing exciting and realized that Sharavsky's zest for Salinger. How- jazzuntilI was in high school highlight has classical ever, in hermind her finest work at Vassar I couldn'tmemorize any of my pieces all sounded been with the comedy sketch group No Of- for my voicelessons because they Offense has been fense: a part of No the same in my brain," explained Sharavsky. "Being above, is a member No Offense and a singerfor the Vassar Jazz En- ofnine: "I the most fulfilling of my Vassar Andi Sharavsky '//, pictured of Her acting debut came at the age experience and on Dec. semble. Sheis her own adaptation oftheJ.D. Salinger novel Franny Zooey 9-10. of GradeShinn in career," said Sharavsky. directing gave a moving performance finished about the reasons 'The Music Man.' I got to announce the arrival We by talking she actual I plan on the first believesthatcomedy isone ofthe joked, adding, "My plans? It's started working on comedy in Sharavsky ofthe Wells Fargo Wagon! a pivotal plot she to to continue com- most artistic tools in existence, due moving Chicago studying Her career as a comedian also started place: powerful point." Theatre create at Second City, The Annoyance making laugh, to its to change minds and laugh- edy early in life. "I started doing comedy when it "I've always enjoyed people power the other I like because it's and Improv [lO]. The Annoyance and when bat mitzvah was scheduled on ter. "On hand, jazz Olympic became obvious that my older sister was way my and stemmed out ofSecond and they had to and and I'm IO City, some the same as Deena Schwartz's, I emotional improvisational pretty smarter than me and I needed way to get day concentration all teach sketch and acting. I to be better and more likable sure the jazzband is thelargest improv, comedy attention," she said. "I also tap danced for 14 find some way also on doing as much stand-up as than her. in all seriousness, people laugh of straight men on the Vassar campus," joked plan pos- do want to see me tap dance?" But years, you a and that sibleand trying to find random wedding has had other with the most sincerity and joy at things Sharavsky. Sharavsky many experiences Earth, When asked what she plans to do after col- bar mitzvah band to sing with. I love are human and utterly relatable; the T from her past that have lent themselves to her utterly on famous," Wind, and Fire." moments. lege, Sharavsky said, "I plan being artistic development. "I went to animation totally know this person/situation'

Search for new Writing Center director continues

this course has evolved under concern for their and for community and the kinds of con- The Rumbarger peers RUMBARGER continuedfrom page 1 work is making contact, of as ofwriters is inspiring." our allows us to enter. I to reflect the theoretical aspects writing, n see that it's vi- versations that thinking p.m. or 7 and p.m., you'll often from the experi- The autonomy given to Writing Center con- like that students can see that very publically in well, drawing personal brant, and there are always people working to- the class. "In the class sultants has extended even to the search for space." ences of students in gether." This is evident from the sheer growth this upstairs means to be a writer in the new director, which remains "It's has also allowed the we talk about what it ongoing. in the number ofconsultations that the Writing The larger space Writing here at Vassar; it's an a education how we both work a uniquekind of to expand its staff; Rum- higher setting, position Center conducts, which has risen during Rum- Center dramatically and constraint and break administrative but one where the di- estimates that the Writing Center had a within convention position, barger's time at Vassar from 500 consultations barger rector to as of the job," we think we need to is expected teach part 10 to 12 consultants when she first came from conventions when to staff of per year 1,400. PPP other to this Shanley explained, citing to 21 over the as writers." According Rumbarger, phi- among had taken over the position— to Vassar, a figure that has grown Rumbarger consultants continued to manifest itselfin the course. As such, Writing Center of hertenure.Rumbarger feelsthat the losophy has albeit in a slightly different form than it exists duration with students. "I think have been central to the hiring process by at- been a boon for writ- workthat consultants do today—from Natalie Friedman, who now serves expanded space has also consultants are with prospective hires and consultants in that it has allowed them to many of the peer writing very tending meetings as the associate director of the LTRC, in 2006. ing each to of the students who come in on mock PPP classes taught by work more as a team than as individuals. "Rath- committed the T sitting Friedman explained that she first came to the ofthe candidates. worked in, them find it is care about that er than this a that helping why they LTRC as a "writing specialist," a position being just job they Newman believes that the Writing Cen- a became this topic." existed separately from the Writing Center. for eight to 10 hours week, they really their ter consultants will continue to play a role in witheach she The consultants speak glowingly about Friedman combined the two positions during tight other," explained. even after a new who has been time with "[Lee has] steering the Writing Center was Adam Newman 'n, a consultant spentworking Rumbarger. her tenure, but she says that it Rumbarger been She's and she's director arrives in January. "I do see all of the at the Center since his sophomore great. really supportive who focused on expanding the Writing working really senior consultants- more a friend than a said Zoe Car- consultants—not just the to the sense of community like boss," Center. "When Lee came on board, her exper- year, spoke strong much as educators for the new director," the consultants."I have mixed feelings penter 'n, who has worked as a Writing Cen- very tisewas really in nurturingand growing writing amongst three "She's he said. "As much as [the new director] at Vassar, but the one ter consultant for the years. might centers." in general about my time past theirown I think force without didactic or and bring ideas, don't have mixed at all about is a guiding being change things A major change that took place under Rum- thing I feelings good to have to them transition to the to tell us how to do our jobs." we're going help Center the Center," he "[lt is] trying barger was the movement ofthe Writing Writing explained. "A lot of what Lee does is the space and learn how things work specifi- closest to a home at Vassar." Newman agreed. from a small office in the library basement to thing at Vassar." students just supporting us and making sure that the cally the central location that it enjoys today. "The To become writing consultants, to to be with Prose Center consultants have the tools Rumbarger is moving England was must first take a course called Process, Writing right LTRC had that space, but it completely think most of her thereshe will alsobeteaching uni- and which is taught the to do our jobs." He continued, "I husband; most ofthe time duringour open hours," Pedagogy (PPP), by empty literature. With the Center would count versity courses on 20th century director. "When I first came the people in Writing said "We just kind of squatted up Writing Center Rumbarger. echoed a someone become to her departure, was much as a Lee as they've very good respect Rumbarger there, to be honest." here, [PPP] taught very practi- her fellow administra- who explained that the friends with. She isnot justthisdistant employ- sentiment expressed by Rumbarger noted how the change in venue cum," said Rumbarger, tors and also the consultants, who are that writer; she's someone who is there for you." writing better reflected the Writing Center's mission course focused mainly on strategies much as hate tornover her leaving: "As I to consultants could during their consulta- Rumbarger also cherishes the time she has all to promote a campus-wide culture of writing. ing with the consultants. "It's been leave, it's exciting to imagine what the next di- tions with students. "I think that was be- spent writing "When students are faculty are writing, it can great rector to what ideas and felt to build with students. is going do, insights isolated she cause when students got the job they very thrilling something my be a very isolating and process," all the time, and their real to have." comfortablewith the work had to do." I learn from them they're going explained. "I think the pleasure of academic they

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE ARTS December 9, 2010 21

Unstoppable defies low expectations

ofa tion in of the train is trying Unstoppable which an engineer got out slow-moving charge runaway with it can to save the train without de- Ohio train to correctly align a switch everything Tony Scott face numerous the intent ofhopping back in afterward. Be- railing it. Barnes and Colson [20th Century Fox] tribulations the course fore leaving the train he had incorrectly set trialsand throughout

and even the audience the dynamic brakes, causing the trainto gain oftheir chase, though knows how the will end, slill momentum and leave the train yard before story everyone

on the oftheirseat. the engineer could hop back on board. The remains edge

Scott uses cuts, shotsand nu- EvanLester train was stopped only after a second train quick flying

Guest Columnist merous to the movie going. The bumped into it, slowing it down enough for 360s keep makes use ofheavily another to on board and apply cinematography strong in at a mere too minutes. Un- engineer hop saturated colors that contrast with the other- Clockingstoppable is barely longer than a Hall- the brakes. side. 'A paper on Kurt takes a much the event wise dull Pennsylvania country mark Original Movie. Its trailer promises a The film portrays Both Washington and Pine give Schwitters' 1919 a almost implausible strong cheesy movie that no one with halfa brain in highly dramatic, nonethe- in their roles that advance Scott manner, but its terribly effective performances assemblage, would see. Additionally, directorTony cin- on the movie introduces us to the movie emotionally, something good madea train-based action moviewithDenzel less. Early Das Arbeitcrsbild alone cannot The Frank Barnes (Denzel Washington), an old ematography accomplish. Washington that was released just one year for Art 264- in and Will Colson chemistry between the two actors adds a earlier—The Taking of Pelham I 2 s—and it experienced engineer, other words, if conduc- deal to the momentum of the story. a young, cocky train great was as as expected. (Chris Pine), not nearly good Unstop- only Iknew." and Chris Both face issues: Barnes has two At 100 minutes in length the film is cer- pable, starring Denzel Washington tor. family side- withwhom he has a troubled rela- tainly lean. There are no superfluous Pine should have been a bad movie, but it daughters scenes that allow and Colson's wife has a stories or long graceful Thea Ballard '13 wasn't. It turns out that Unstoppable isa tour tionship, restraining him to on his the viewer to reflect on what just happened. dc force of action interspersed with sheer orderagainst him, forcing sleep second is used wisely and contains adrenaline. brother's couch. Every of action. The movie out to the actual mountain loads heavy Unstoppable is not meant to be an Oscar- Played similarly incident, tenseness allows a train to bleeds and finesse. winningproduction withtear-jerking perfor- Dewey, a train engineer, the movie is not The "Endless or- the train with no one on board. However, perfect. cogni- mances, a touching script and a soaring leave yard was a tad dull times, even The brakes are the train is writing at predict- chestralscore. Its excellence is found within air disconnected, tive science

cars able. The stories for Barnes and atten- half-a-mile long and some ofits background its ability to grab onto the audience's easily memory stor- tox- Colson couldhave used a tad more detail and con- are molten phenol, a dangerous tionearly on inthe filmand maintainits carrying some of the action were cut too age." nection until the credits roll. in. After many near misses with other trains sequences the scenes not so much confus- on the the train reaches a of 70 fast, leaving Tony Scott is a well-established action- track, speed as they were incoherent. film director,having helmedthe classics Top mph. ing After the oncoming That being said, the movie as a wholewas Gun (1986) and Enemy ofthe State (1998). His just barely dodging once while on their own train, Barnes excellent. Tony Scott has again proved greatamount ofexperience lent itselfwell to freighter LukeSlattery'l3 himself an auteur ofthe movie, make and Colson decide to after the action-genre Unstoppable; he was actually able to go runaway of and afterleaving the theater with wide grin a train train themselves, with the hopes being a movie about runaway entertaining on I can this movie was in- able to couple with the last car and slowly my face, honestly give 4 to watch. The story for Unstoppable Meanwhile the out of stars. spired by the CSX 8888 incident of 2001, in being able to stop it. corpora- 5

"I'm writing a

program for my Campus Canvas Aweeklyspacehighlightingtheaeativepursuitsofstudent-artists submitto [email protected] computer sci-

ence class."

WillowThompson '14

"I'm writing about the vagrant im- pulse in the west

for my American Alienation class."

Vincent Hiscock '13

"Fugues."

Alex McCoy'll

concern of comfortand within the . Ourperformance piece consisted ofthe disassembly and burning maintaining safety community,

we whetheror not such authoritative demands from the often ofthe most recognizable symbols we encounterday-to-day question and the administrationsacrificeboth our autonomy as Vassar students as well (the maleand femalegender signs, a Nike swoosh Mac logo,

success as a workof art. Oneof our fundamental Star ofDavid and the theVC and the letter the as the ofthe piece the cross, logo A, "The Vassar in an to reassess our semiotic endeavors withthis installationwas to elicit meaningful emotional swastika and the peace sign) attempt talkabout Chronicle." to revealed in an attemptto get people to think and process of ascribing singular meaning signs. Our piece responses it toa venue where nobody could see discomfortfrom much of the Vassar administrationregarding pro- semiotic functions.Relocating issue it discussion and with vocative art in a public setting. The specific addressed by the effectively prevented anyfurther engagement is most location we had in which the issues addressed. The irony ofhow the piece resulted that variousauthoritieswas the original mind, even In end we were Joss concern wasthat the was too visiblefrom discussion before it occurred. the '11 was Beach. The piece happened Jeremy Bright misinter- with the execution of the installation and the discussionsit Raymond Avenue, and that Poughkeepsie residents would pleased Steve Keller'll of art. In however we were dissatisfied withhow the cen- pretthe Intentof a purposefully provocative work response provoked, ultimately in relocation, negatively affectedthe piece's impact to these apprehensions we were toldthatthe only circumstances sorship, through

was itwe moved the installation to which wecould perform the piece -MichaelHirsch'11andKimmyLawes'11 —Erik Lorenzsonn

Ballantine Field, a more secluded location.While we understand the Arts Editor

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE SPORTS December 9,2010 22

seasons Study abroad removes juniorsfrom competitive athletes who are rest solely on the Corey Cohn still in Poughkeepsie. Coach Prater-

EditorAssistantSports con- Lee notes that one of her main

Vassar re- of the swim- life of students at cerns is the ability JYA in Thevolves around balancing com- mers and divers to stay prime mitments, and there are few bigger condition to compete. "IBeingl JYA

someone from a fit- academic commitments than spend- can pull away

in let alone for a ing an entire semester studying ness routine, training stresses another country. As student-athletes varsity sport," she says. She abroad make the difficult decision lo em- that it is important for those with the their commitment to the bark upon an experience to gauge is Junior Year Abroad (JYA) program, team. "Upon their return it my

are left to and ev- their respective learns try hope as a coach, hopefully and till the resulling void. eryone's hope, that the JYAers want when Few voids have been bigger than to make up for that lost time

on for the rest of thai made on Vassar's swimming they are campus

are and the summer and diving team this fall. There their junior year

women and she adds. six total members—two before their senior year,"

four men—who were on the roster Coach Prater-Lee is quick to recog- obstacles that can in 2009-IO that are currently study- nize the academic States. ideal ing outside the United On further hinder this resurgence. to the women's side, Felicia Ilansell She has coached enough juniors school '12 and Caroline Shannon '12, both know that "thesis prep, grad Paris, searches and swimmers, are in Madrid and prep, and potential job influence respectively. For the men, swimmers interviews...can all spring lan Madison '12 and Jack Smart '12 are semester junioryearand beyond." in Madrid and London, respectively, SixmembersoftheVassarwomen'sandmen'sswimminganddivingteams-membersofwhicharepicturedabo^^^ Nevertheless, when the athletes and Greg Sullivan '12, a diver, is in th_/_U.The«!vacan^^ do return from their intellectual get- is old ros- Swimmer Dustin Molina '12 they are granted their Russia. the JYA experience" and she is con- aways, the number of (or ones) are missing." Considering but he is not er-l.ee says graduat- ter the two squads also abroad, in Prague, at how the stu- spots, provided that all six of the students currently tinually impressed men from last year's squad was limits is on returning to the team in ing to have not met their size (as planning have been members of the dents never show a "willingness usual. 'This followed a abroad larger than case this season). Coach Prater- 2011. academic work and the January their freshman it is settle back with featured a class team since year, now in season that big complacency Ilead Coach I.isl Prater-I.ee, 2009 intellectual about which Lee does not expect understandable how much their col- pursuits fa- of female graduating swimmers and however. She her i(>th season at Vassar, is quite Alistair Hall with this security, absence is felt. [theyl are passionate." has more impor- lective miliar with the JYA and the divers. 'This put the "for all team members, program one of the of the men's says goal are to combat this '11, captains which for 2010-11 There ways tance on recruiting, should be to it has on the team. However, of JYA or not, challenge impact however. Coach team, truly values the well-being members on sense of longing, statement, resultedin six freshman more to the team even she, in an e-mailed that themselves to add that she and the his teammates. "I'm just happy and four on (he- Prater-Lee shares is a bit more the women's squad a season and from season to remarks thai this year a time," he within at they are having good rest ofthe team still Vassar main- "extreme" than in the past. Still, she men's. He, season." Ideally, her student-athletes in said in an e-mailed statement. tain contact with the students while roster can be is thankful that the students' travels Still, spots willshow justas much fervorin their the like Coach Prater-Lee, recognizes who temporar- other countries. She emphasizes distributed more filled, the people as do in their academ- are not sporadical- ambition so athletics they of out more the scholarly apparent them cannot truly be importance "[finding) been somewhat helpful that ily abandon ly. "It's while in his fellow swimmers and divers. of what they are doing JYA not Coach Prater-Lee writes most are now and we are replaced. and No matter what, though, everyone gone are they all "love training so and them know that they Although of the team chemistry letting once four now and strongly for a warm welcome split, I like having! gone he remarks,"you have to is ready "The men's missed and still very much valued competing," three in the spring," she says. critical to the program. the athletes return and the team gone do what isbest for youand your edu- JYA aiid-women'sswim/diveteam spends back here on campus." (In the spring, diver Christie Musket otherwise." is reunited. The travelers will rejoin is difficult, cation, including JYA or of time she writes. Though the separation '12 will be abroad.) a lot together," and Hall the rest of the squad on a training studying and fellow ath- Both Coach Prater-Lee some it's a lot likea family. everyone—coaches studentsare not the only "In ways, and Hall reports that The JYA the team trip to Florida, the opportu- acknowledge that missing we so much time to- letes alike—understand and diving Because spend other team members still reason the swimming members affect the depth ofthe ros- he and the JYA Coach Prater-Lee different in and more challenging nity presents. team looked significantly gether, good does not at Vassar "can't wait!" who take ter. Flowever, the challenge says she is "happy for those times, we all sense when someone coming into thisseason. Coach Prat-

Sports Briefs Trainers keep athletes in the game

Takes Two at Sacred Heart kind of "[Vassar athletes] are Women's Fencing work closely with Baldwin and Vassar pressure, Kristine Olson a field with national power- it comes to Competing ripe Cha- a lot more laid back when against Reporter Brothers Hospital. When Carter, houses, defending National Champions Perm on us to make them including are by an putting pressure Vassar son or Lustbader stumped team out- you might spot State the Vassar women's fencing Bald- better," said Carter. University, "we always have back-up in students walking across campus injury, and the of Occasionally, at dueled Sacred Heart University University That is not to that working win," said Carter. "We never feel the say ofice to their bodies the Brewers with bags wrapped North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Although an Vassar is easier than at DI institutions, that ifwe can't treat athlete, If ever witnessed pressure with plastic. you've were Perm State, Princeton University, are different. First and vanquished by won't recover." rather the jobs (his, then probably seen the they Harvard they you've academics New York University and University, three trainers noted that the chal- foremost, Vassar prioritizes Athletic Trainer Jeff All season. The handiwork of Head hold a record on the But even liberal nonetheless 14-4 of injuries and figur- over athletics. among or Assistant Athletic Trainers lenge diagnosing and will next fence Carter, "Other squad has concluded the semester one of arts colleges, Vassar is unique. and I.ustbader who ing out treatments is actually Ohio. Josh Chason Jessica a multi-team meet, in Cleveland, schools have blocks of time for activi- on Jan. i_in to their For rooms the major draws profession. Editor operate out ofthe three training —Andy Marmer, Sports athletic trainer ties like varsity said Carter. He Chason, becoming an sports," at Walker, Weinberg and Kenyon. out that classes start later career Before also pointed for was a conscious change. three are responsible 27 Sixth at Liberty League The which class times— Men's Swim-Dive Takes the he attended the at Vassar, pushes and athletes. According to making switch, teams 575 of the day Championships of America, where especially labs—into hours trainer to Culinary Institute Carter, this 1:9 ratio, athletic This weekend, the men's swim-dive squad (193 medi- when other colleges hold practices and past to most he volunteered as an emergency team ratio, is higher compared rival Skidmore College (188 extra-curricular activities. points) narrowly edged technician (KMT). From there, he- other institu- cal at of Vassar's peer Liberty League to claim sixth the Liberty League While team at Vassar has an points) place toward a inathletic train- every or have to worked degree sea- tions, which are 1:5 1:6, "You Numerous Brewers recorded interested off-season, the trainersdo not. "We usu- Championships. For Vassar students also do," said Chason. "If ing. was won enjoy what you you another," son-best times at the meet, which ultimately roll from one season to athletic training, or simply athletic ally we in the equivalent in with 860 think about it, put Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) said Lustbader. "In October all three by settings, there are student employment of a coach, times nine." next swims on at the Kumpf In- meeting at the points. Vassar Jan. 15 in the various athletictraining sports seasons were If wondering what an athletic positions before returning home to you're of she vitational hosted by RPI, a basis, two same time because pre-seasons," textbook rooms on On daily trainer does exactly, here's the campus. two days later. coach comes to us, host Trinity University students shadow Chason, added. "And every definition, according to www.nutu.org: to four Vassar —AM us to accommodate their prac- Lustbader and learn to wanting "health care Carter and wrap athletic trainers are profes- schedules," said Chason, use like tice and game collaborate with ice, tape ankles and equipment League sionals who physicians makes Women's Swim-Dive Earns Fifth at Liberty under their di- referring to the overlap, "which and of the ultrasound machine to optimize activity participation really busy for us." None of this Championships rect things patients and clients. Athletictraining en- supervision. finishes, the women's swim- is said in complaint, simply as facts of Behind many top-io and 1 lowever,having worked at Division I the prevention, diagnosis finished fifth at the annual Liberty compasses The three work as a dive squad place aware ofthe the profession. acute and institutions,they are pres- intervention of emergency, Championship meets. The Vassar squad (367.5 team to balance life and work, covering League sures of working with student-athletes chronic medical conditions involving missed taking down fourth place St. and for each other when someone needs to points) narrowly limitations and who are reliant on scholarships, of impairment, functional Lawrence University (392 points). The University careers take time off. emer- who are pursuing professional disabilities."Yes, even handle The Brew- they Rochester won the meet with 865.5 points. the dif- At the end of the day, there is a lot for to in Chason explained "The emergencies are unique sports. Sara who recorded 44 gencies. athletes should ers were led by Shannon '13 the two levels. "DI which Vassar's varsity said Chason. "With rugby ference between finish in the every sport," on the a fifth place are athletic train- points day, including resources and be thankful. Not only will be fractures and broken bones, schools have more spe- (1M). '11 there meter individual medley Samantha Jones and resources for, 400 available on a basis," ing services provided meet we're cialists quicker whereas ai a cross country had meet, including a team-high are also also an impressive athletes] lace more but student-athletes presented with exhaustion." said Chason. "|DI event. generally dealing fourth finish in the too meter backstroke with attitudes and a genuine place of careers, TV positive more com- because trophy However, athletic trainers pressure with a total of points on the day. for their well-being—as dis- Jones finished 29 and scholarships." These arc concern act as intermediaries lo physi ratings —AM monly Chason and Lustbad- student-athletes never by Carter, and at Vassar played cians and medical specialists, things without that er—on a daily basis. have to worry about. And Vassar that inc.ins thai athletic trainers

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE SPORTS 23 December 9,2010 week Time to accept Qatar as World Cup host My 14

Kelly Capehart Guest Columnist NFL picks: Dec. 2,2010 atapproximately 10:30a.m., Onthousands ofAmericansacross the country suddenly became experts on Qatar. Use with care the "It's 120 degrees in the summer! In is by shade!" "Drinking liquor punishable Andy Sussman hanging!" "We're playing in a country re- Columnist nowned for human trafficking! HUMAN going 7-8-1 in my week 2 NFL picks- TRAFFICKINC!" While there are varying Afterwhy did you have to push, Houston. of veracity amongst the accusations degrees WHY???—and subsequently spending 12 was for sure: lobbed at Qatar, one thing being weeks in the hospital thanks to my wonderful were Lots ofAmericans pissed. to bookie Vinny, I am here make .1 comeback our as a whole was My assertion that nation week with for the ages. Here are my 14 picks, displeased by the announcement that Qatar the home team in all capital letters: FIFA World had won the bid for the 2022 Cup Af- Indianapolis (-3) over TENNESSEE: that social circle may be coloredby the fact my the ter throwing three interceptions against these days largely consists ofAmerican soccer horrific Houston Texans' secondary, 'Titans sub- supporters who constitute the research quarterback Rusty Smith reminded parents jectsfor seniorthesis on fans ofthe United my across the nation never 10 name their chil- States Men's National Soccer team. However, dren "Rusty." Meanwhile, Peyton Manning the news headlines a glance through in quick has thrown 11 Interception! the past three- United reveals that the press, not only in the weeks, causing Ryan Leaf to talk about how States but in other (less significant and awe- he would never struggle like Manning does, some, ofcourse) parts ofthe world, was equally while under his trademark paper bag. astonished by this news. Oakland (+4-5> over JACKSONVILLE: The breezed past Australia, Japanand South Qatar Oakland Raiders have surprised most NFL Korea in the first rounds ofbid votingand then fans withtheir solid 6-6 record, causing more South Korea and the United States with its bid to host the 2022 the United States 14votes to eight. Oh, Qatar bested Australia, Japan, trumped focus on how terribleof the United States. to once again The announcement has been met with surprise and outrage in people some other countries for the FIFA World Cup. Russia beat out Meanwhile, the a place Oakland is to live in. 2018 World Cup, blah blah blah, not important. are in first in the AFC South, record in that it was able to rise to the occasion. Jaguars place have a to human rights is spotty. Amnesty 1994 Do American soccer fans right Qatar's last fan to on The United States was a safe option for FIFA, causing every Jacksonville buy It's to not International had some words that subject, be distraught? Of course. upsetting news, there are no one that it chose to forego. At season tickets. In related child and included "arbitrary detention" and but ultimately get what you want, as any two-year-old they never know Jaguars fans. are not perfect there the end of the day, we'll exactly knows. However, unlike disgruntled toddlers, "sexual violence." Things del- PITTSBURCH over Cincinnati: Ben defense what FIFA's reasoning was. Did the U.S. (-8.5) to and that should not be excused. But in the American so far has been quick public be sad that so botch their bid There- Roethlisberger must many Some of of FIFA's decision to bring one of the biggest egation presentations? call out on its shortcomings. it Qatar Bill hate him. Carson Palmer will be is some buzz that Freeman and fans Luckily, events in the world to a troubled na- Morgan is valid. Some of it is closed-minded. All of it sporting remove the attention from Roethlis- could conceiv- Clinton (both of whom were representing the able to is tion, the international pressure vengeful. another Cincinnati riot as to FlFA)—in the ultimate berger causing way: Did U.S. delegation repu- by most be a good thing. Think of it this Here, a few of the popular complaints: ably to Steelers diation of the suaveness and charm that team he throws an interception every is care about Qatar's human rights record "But it's so...tiny!" Yes, folks, Qatar you a bit. Was last month? Doubtful. Fascinating should have embodied—faltered player. small—it is smaller than the this time truly slightly over BUFFALO: The Bills international FIFA bribed? Some undercover London Times Cleveland (-1) how a to host a massive state of Connecticut. But one of the major place gets the rest revealed that this was fea- have decided that in lieu of playing our is all over journalists certainly about host countries like Russia competition and suddenly press complaints will remember the and the BBC has as much, result- of the season, they glory makes travel them abouttreating their women and minority sible, alleged is that are massive, which they Buffalo would wait to in multiple voters being suspended due to days of football, when stadiums difficultand loathsome. Be groups more kindly. ing between until the at the end of the humiliate themselves year Su- That is not false; drink- bribery allegations. But day, every honest with yourself: You don't want to make "But we can't drink!" Bowl. law Qatar, and the the reality ofit is that the World Cup isn't com- per the New-York-to-Los-Angeles-with-a-layover- ing alcohol is against the in and about it isn't MINNESOTA (+2) over New York Ciants:A known to dole ing here in 2022, being ugly in-Kansas-City trip, either. government of Qatar has been Brett Favre said thatif he can throw, for violations. To be going to change that. More importantly, being banged up "It's to be hot." It is going to be hot. out corporal punishment going to the know how about it isn't to help bring the World he will play this Sunday, leading ques- not want to truthful, it's hard to they'll wiggle ugly going Miami isalso hot. You may tailgate first we'll have to tion ofhow he has all in the a has to here in the future. For that, played year desert but also won't around this one, but person imagine Cup in 115-degree heat, you coach Tom on our train network or our Meanwhile, Giants Cough- in that booze—and the economics behindit—will work high-speed place. want to hang out on the asphalt in Houston in the meantime, lin isprepared to fine the refereesifthey don't in the end. outdoorair-conditioning. But July. If Qatarwants to work engineering magic triumph brush on Arabic and start the start the game five minutes early. In some the outcome does defy logic. up your studying and air-conditiontheir outdoor stadiums, more ways, Bay (-7) over DETROIT: Former United huge attendance seating chart of Khalifa International Stadium: Green to them. The States guaranteed power one 2022 whether we like Packers coaching legend Vince Lombard! has the existing infrastructureneces- We're going to Qatar in "Everything about the government is hor- numbers, asked, "I don'tthink there'sa and demonstrated it or not. famously punch- rible and morally heinous." Okay, admittedly sary to host the tournament, line scheduled, is there?" If he were alive to

see Drew Stanton quarterbacking the Lions, he would have changed his mind. While the must Packers are in playoff contention, they that Fitness classes keep non-athletes healthy make sure everyone is healthy, something has never been done in the history ofWiscon-

breathand awareness, and an sin. Nathan Tauger of schoolwork, projects, part-time jobs and alignment, body Atlanta over CAROLINA: Some ar- Guest Reporter attitude of to one's own (-7.5) 24/7 on-campus social life stresses out some self-acceptance personal that this is a classic "trap game." I agree, students. Exercise allows to get from process." gue duringwinter are insufferable. Frigid you away think of I thinkCarolina will be trapped in hell during it all. [When exercise] brainreleases "I every person, regardless age, Finalstreks to faraway buildings and seemingly you your can benefit from this entire natural chemicals that boost your body type, fitness level, etc. game. endless papers and assignments can breakany powerful (+2) over Red- the practice of I believe that yoga in par- WASHINGTON Tampa Bay: student's One ofthe best to mood, relax your body, and leave you feeling yoga. Vassar spirit. ways Shanahan announced that he- ticular a form of exercise to skins coach Mike and more focused. Exercise also re- is not only great fortify said spirit is through physical activity. happier and release tension has suspended disgruntled Defensive Tackle fun and duces risk of illness and off stress and strengthen the entirebody Vassar offers a number of fights Fortunately, for the rest ofthe season. but also a that can enhance Albert Haynesworth Flores will be teaching a speed personal practice free physical activities to its students during depression." an This is "Shanahan-speak" for Haynesworth course later in the one's overall lifestyle, stimulating ongoing the winter months. and agility year. The at back for The Zhao advo- of positive change and growth. starting running Washington. Staunton Peck, assistant coach ofthe men's Vassar Aikido instructor Jun process on the season, but environment and the of Buccaneers are above .500 cated of Vassar's numer- College practice yoga basketball team, is one of the fitness instruc- taking advantage won thus far has come seem to reinforce and be conducive to each they have ous to fit. "My advice for every game tors who teaches a free class."I teach a condi- opportunities stay or Bad Girls other's mission." against a PoP Warnersquad the a.m. the at is to find some activities tioning class threedays a week from 7:30 College large Clearly students take advantage of Club. you enjoy and active.Try something new. many to 8:15 a.m. The class consists of three parts, stay over Louis: Reg- available the opportunity. "Turnout for classes varies NEW ORLEANS (-9) St. dynamic stretching—stretching while moving, There are so many fitness programs to after on ofclasses and also gie Bush recently returned the Saints never have this kind greatly depending times (jumping work) or agility work, in the College. You may pfyometrics due hut he he is where we are in the semester calendar. Most a long absence to injury, says and cardio work—some sort ofsprint running ofopportunity afteryou graduate." about to 12 with healthy and completely ready to go. Breaking Aikido is one of those chances. Not only classes average eight students, depending on the day." as news: Bush has hurt himself while a stu- some classes last semester having as many Reggie just the as a fitness class, Aikido is also Apart from a class capable of carving taught about how healthy he is. differs from other mar- or students; other classes having only talking student into the most explo- dent club. "[Aikido] 23 24 average Vassar Seattle over SAN FRANCISCO: With use of force four or five students." (+4.5) sive athlete, Peck also offers sound instruc- tial arts by not emphasizing the to Frank out for the the our ener- If still not convinced brave the Gore year, 49CTS previ- advice force. We work on blending you're tion for a healthy lifestyle. "My fitness against Field Fitness slim playoffs hopes became Kate Moss- with and using it against cold and travel to Walker House, ously to is to be active every day gy opponents' energy people physically to more added sized. However, look for the Seahawks miss our Director Roman Czula notes one a workout routine. Work them. We hold practice/class throughout in some way. Have somehow up is not benefit. "Stress busters (Dec. 7-19) is a great the game completely by ending to and it's totally free. Practice out at the same time each day and stick that the year some activities, in Oklahoma this Sunday. turnout is between time period to try of these City time. Once [working out) becomes routine it mandatory and usually over all of them arc free. there so can New (-3) CHICAGO: Coming four to but sometimes it can be as high They're you England is much easier to work out consistently. Fi- eight, without commitment and if find offa blowout over the New York Jets, as said Zhao. try them you 42-point nally, being active is not enough to maintain a mid-teens," can with it." the Patriots to arrive in Chicago with well If these don't to Vas- something you like you stick expect fit body. You have to eat healthy as (many offerings appeal you, ones confidence and frostbite. The concern for class More activities are available than the fruitsand sar fitness, specifically the taught by vegetables)." know this article.Check e-mail or the Bears is that the defense does not Cassandra Currie, still has more to described in your Men's soccer Assistant Coach Tony Flores instructor times a full list of whatit is likenot to be on the field at all to intermediate the Vassar athletics website to get further extolledthe benefitsof maintainingan offer. "I teach gentle Vinyasa .See NFL PICKS on a focus on stress bustersand other fitness opportunities. page 24 active lifestyle. "The overwhelming amounts Flow Yoga classes, with proper

MISCELLANY NEWS | VASSAR COLLEGE SPORTS December 9,2010 24

After Kroll's departure, Cox to lead Vassar men's tennis

berths Andy Marmer erty League Championships and NCAA SportsEditor team on both the and individual platforms.

has been named to fill the Cox hopes to mirror such progress at Vassar.

Head "Our overall is to become a na- Arc-placementvacancy left by former men's tennis He stated, goal Coach Xi Kroll, who left Vassar for the same tional powerhouse on the Division 111 level in "The next position at Division I University of Southern men's tennis." He continued, step

Mississippi. This past Monday Athletic Direc- for this team to accomplish is to actually win

a round at nationals. been to nationals tor Sharon Beverly announced that John Cox, They've

haven't won a round That who has spent the past five-and-a-halfyears as before but they yet. an assistant at Division 111 Kenyon College, had will be our goal this year."

will on taken on the position. "I'm real excited to be To accomplish this goal, Cox rely here at Vassar," exclaimed Cox. He continued, what worked for him at Kenyon. "My reputa-

"Vassar to in a lot of tion is as a hardworking coach," he stated, is very similar Kenyon very other "It's The harder ways, but at a higher level in ways..There continuing, very simple: you the harder it is to surrender. So when were three or four schools in the country that I work,

to, really, hard in the practice was interested in going if the position came a kid works really

was one of them so real times, he's to much harder be- open.Vassar I'm happy going compete to be here." cause he's paid his dues and he knows it." and Coach Cox At Kenyon, Cox leaves behind one of the With his rhetoric reputation, is around him believe. "I elite Division 111 programs. Prior to Cox's ar- already making those

a of a rival, Kenyon had made the NCAA tournament thinkhe's a great fit;he'llbring lot energy, numerous times; however, they had seldom lot ofintensity," claimed Assistant Coach Mike starredforfour under advanced past the second round. This changed Mattelson '10, who years under Cox's leadership. The team advanced to Kroll. Mattelson continued, "He has high ex-

was forhimself and for the on the the NCAA tournament every yearhe there, pectations guys

seems likehe's to progressing as far as the National Quarterfinals team. It already getting guys

a to an assistant coach at College, has taken on theposition ofmen'stennishead (Elite Eight) twice, in 2008 and 2009. Cox also buy into situationwhere everyone is going JohnCox,formerly Kenyon

team as vacated Xi Kroll. Andrew Guzick '12, is one of the team's premier players. led the team to threetop-10 rankings, including wantto work hard and really make the coach recently by Above,

as it can be." a best ofsix. good no matter the circumstance, and not Brewer excited Cox takes thisidea to the next level. "[Tennis we need him, Cox did not just strengthen the Kenyon Mattelson is the only witha influential in devel- about Cox's arrival. Ben Guzick wrotein are nice, That's not near as he woulddo anythingto help problem." team, he was also hugely Junior accomplishments] went so far as to liken the "I reason to though, as a kid knowing that if he Burgin Kenyon oping individual players. Under Cox, Kenyon an e-mailed statement, have every important, at relationship with Cox as familial, "My will lead us to has a problem late nighthe can callCoach or team's featured 24 Academic-AllAmericans, eight All- believe that he unprecedented and with Coach a national title knock on his door and he's there for him." teammates my relationships Americans, and one 2008 Division 111 National successes and will give Vassar the normal player-coach relation- Champion, Michael Greenberg. Regarding his beforehe's through." Paul Burgin, a sophomore on the Kenyon goes beyond He accolades for but men's tennis team, believes thatCox takes this ship; itis likewe are one big family. is more accolades, Cox noted, "Kenyon was right where Cox's speak themselves, a coach to us. He is more like is off to heart. wrote in an e-mailed than just tennis Vassar's at now five-and-a-halfyears ago when he believes his greatest accomplishment message Burgin the the court."I would the most statement, school that has him is very a closefriend." I got there. We were ranked 28th in country say single impor- "Any a Like Mattelson, believes the of if is the fact that I still because they are not just getting great Burgin hiring [Vassar is currently ranked 29th]; we had been tant accolade, you will, lucky, for the "It is with all kids that have tennis but a as well." Burgin Cox is a good step Brewers, very to nationals before but had never won a round have relationships my coach, great person but could not have continued, continued, "We were all close to Coach sad to see him leave, Vassar or done anything." graduated. We're very close." He "A very done a better in a coach, and it if he's what he's to be Cox and we allhad job selecting Thereis no doubtthat Kroll led the program coach, doing supposed very personal relationships a forward fortheir kids." with him. He is always there for us whenever will be huge step program." to new heights, including the team's first Lib- doing, it [is] all aboutthe

Freshman Matsuoka shines in rookie year Eagles versus

Harrison Remler Guest Reporter Cowboys the Vassar's women's basketball team

Afterdropped a nine-point loss to Hartwick College last Wednesday, Dec. i, freshman to watch point guard Cydni Matsuoka went right back game to work the dayafter. She entered the gym and NFL PICKS continuedfrom page 23 quietly shot 30 free throws. No fancy drills, town. two since Quarterback Rex Grossman left no sulking over the loss. "I missed free NEW YORK (-5.5) over Miami: The throws in the loss and feltthe need to practice JETS are for a win, and they will do foul shots. They definitely make the differ- Jets hungry anything to get one this Sunday. Note: by ence in games and will help us in the long run I mean Rex and "win" I mean thisseason," said Matsuoka. "Jets" Ryan, by "double-bacon cheeseburger." Although she faltered at Hartwick, Matsuo- Denver (-4.5) over ARIZONA: Playing ka's statistics show her skills. She has made 11-15 in their first game since the firing of Head from the charity stripe thisseason, ranking her Coach Josh McDaniels, the Broncos look second on the team witha free throw percentage from to capitalize against a young and strug- of73 percent. A freshman point guard John Cardinals squad. In honor of their F. Kennedy High School in Sacramento, Calif., gling departed coach, look for the Broncos to Matsuoka made her presence felt immediately never before, as within Head Coach Candace Brown's basketball spy like they've spied they watch Cardinals quarterback John Skelton program.In theirmost recent 84-64 victoryover throw a ball that hits himself in the head. Keystone College on Dec. 4, Matsuoka scored a Chiefs Kansas City (+7) over SAN DIEGO: career-high 28 points and added 10 assiststo the Matt Cassel has been cause as theBrewers notched theirthird victory quarterback magnificent

has taken a the past six weeks, as Kansas City of the season. After the 28-point performance, two-game lead in the AFC North. However, Matsuoka is averaging 15.6 points per game, sec- coach Norv Turner does' not under- ond to BrittanyParks '12(18.7 ppg) and leads the Chargers which he calls a the basketball has as a team leader due stand these "so-called wins," team in assists with over 3.5 assists per game. Cyndi Matsuoka '14, pointguardfor women's team, emerged forthe thus he thinks San Parks and Matsuoka have solidified themselves to her calm determination.Matsuokaleads the team in assistsand has impressed withher shooting. numbers devil; Diego is stillin firstplace. as a legitimate backcourt threat in the Liberty over The who sees herself as a freshmen Farrell and Victo- Philadelphia (-3.5) DALLAS: League, averaging over 34 points a game as well Matsuoka, pass-first Senftleber, Jarae withher shoot- ria "I feel we are a Cowboys have played much better under as seven rebounds a game.Both shoot well from point guard, has truly impressed Morgan. good group [the

22 and we are a said interim coach Garrett, and their of- the free throwline, as Parks is shooting a teaming this season, scoring points against Smith freshmen] strong class," Jason to her class can con- fense is starting look in high88 percent from the line. College in the season opener and alsonotching Matsuoka.She alsobelieves really sync. to team team our at some point the Cowboys will Although the women's basketball team 20 pointsagainst Hunter College in a 70-48 vic- tribute the as a whole. "As a However,

so was are to make the remember that Kitna is their quarter- has only played seven games, beginning the tory. "It feltawesome to start off well. 1 goals Liberty League playoffs Jon run Matsuoka has nervous but it's basketball. The and respect from other noted back, and the entire team will away year with a 3-4 record, already definitely just gain programs,"

never Matsuoka. Matsuoka. in horror as Kitna's stray throws hit each emerged as a team leader. "[Matsuoka] is a game changes," said complete player. She is cool, calm and [collect- Matsuoka did not have to adjust much to Night in and night out, Matsuoka will play player in their ACLs. While Bal- ever as she has been off some ofthe Liberty League's more ex- Baltimore (-3) over HOUSTON: ed] on the court as nothing phases her," college basketball, facing against and talented as timore boasts a the Texans said teammate Hannah Senftleber '14, in her against top competitors since high school. "In perienced guards. Yet, it seems strong defense, have the best defense I to if this freshman is for the chal- claim that they scoring description ofMatsuoka's game. high school had the chance play against poised ready as as Parks in in the the Texans think they The composure that her teammates empha- Sara James, who is now at Stanford, well lenge. "Playing against Brittany prac- league. Sadly,

ofDuke. Both were ranked ticehas She pushes me play in the NBA. Meanwhile, Baltimore's size may stem from Matsuoka's appreciation Chelsea Gray very really helped my game. has been so that the for Boston Celticsharpshooter Ray Allen. highly and helped me prepare for the next lev- but also helps me and is supportive. The older linebacking corps strong are but as Ravens are considering titling it "Obstruction "I respect Ray Allen's composure and his el," said Matsuoka. guards definitely physically stronger of Matsuoka a memberofCoach Brown's I learn their tendencies and use the of Justice in for charges status as one ofthe games best shooters," said is key scouting exchange dropping Matsuoka. firstrecruiting class, which consists of fellow reportsit definitely helps," said Matsuoka. murderers row."

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