UNIVERSITY THE INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWS OF UMKC April 11, 2011 Vol. 78, Issue 28

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2 Kansas City lives! 9 Gaypril has 12 Royals: What arrived! to expect?

Photo by Katie Vasholtz 2 NEWS Vol. 78, Issue 28

VOTERS ‘KEEP KC ALIVE’ A look at the Earnings tax debate Nathan Zoschke for police, fire protection, public works and other E-tax hurts Kansas City economically are un- where. Commuters, he said, drive on city streets Asst. Production Manager/ Copy Editor services. founded. and use city services as do residents. The Proposition A campaign was led by St. Cities with even higher E-tax rates have Kansas City’s general fund also subsidizes re- On April 5, Kansas City voters renewed the Louis-area billionaire Rex Sinquefield, who do- eclipsed Kansas City in population and economic gional attractions, like the Truman Sports Com- city’s 1 percent Earnings tax (the E-tax), by a land- nated more than $11 million through various po- growth. Columbus, Ohio, for instance, has an plex, Liberty Memorial and the . slide 78-22 percent margin. litical action committees to support the initiative. E-tax of 2.5 percent, and has seen its population “The earnings tax is a way of paying for city The vote occurred as a result of the passage of Sinquefield is also the president of the Show- increase by 250,000 people over the past 40 years. services based on those who use them,” Eaton Missouri’s Proposition A on Nov. 2, 2010. Me Institute, a libertarian think-tank that supports Dr. Peter Eaton, director of UMKC’s Center said. “It contributes positively by allowing lower Known as the “Let Voters Decide Initiative,” abolishing Missouri’s income tax property and sales taxes. If the E-tax is Proposition A requires the E-tax in Kansas City and the E-tax in both cities. The earnings tax is a way of paying for city services abolished, either other taxes would have and St. Louis to be voted on for renewal once E-Tax Opponents, including the based on those who use them. It contributes positively to come up, or city services would have to every five years beginning in 2011 and prohibits Show-Me Institute, believe the E- be cut.” other cities in Missouri from enacting an E-tax. tax undermines Kansas City’s long- by allowing lower property and sales taxes. If the Perhaps the greatest reason voters If residents in either city ever vote to repeal the term economic competitiveness. “ E-tax is abolished, either other taxes would have to supported the E-tax renewal was the tax, it will be phased out over a period of 10 years Two articles on the Show-Me Insti- come up, or city services would have to be cut. lack of a desirable alternative revenue in that city and cannot be reinstated. tute’s website, www.showmeinstitute.org, -Dr. Peter Eaton, UMKC professor source. Kansas City’s E-tax was first adopted in 1963 published by - Caleb-Michael Files, a political sci- as a .5 percent tax on the income of any person Columbia economics professor Joseph Haslag, for Economic Information, said the movement of ence major, voted to retain the E-tax for this rea- working or living in the city. The initial E-tax was advocated replacing the E-tax with a two-tier jobs from the Kansas City’s urban core to subur- son.” approved by 63 percent of voters, funding police property tax, which would tax buildings and land ban areas has little to do with the E-tax. Instead, “I was worried about my property tax,” Files protection and city services. separately. he cited white flight and existing development said. “The estimated property tax increase was In 1970, E-tax was expanded from .5 percent to Implementing a two-tier tax would require leg- momentum. $1,400 on average per household. There were 1 percent to increase police funding and to begin islative approval, something Kansas City leaders “In order to affect jobs, [the tax] has to be other concerns, like fire and police, but my num- citywide trash collection. believe is unlikely to happen. something that would make the employers’ costs ber one concern was that if we lose this tax, where Today, Kansas City and St. Louis are the only Haslag found the two-tier property tax would go up,” Eaton said. “The E-tax is paid by the peo- are we going to get the money from?” cities in Missouri or Kansas with an E-tax, which significantly increase the number of jobs in Kan- ple working, not the employer.” Files also volunteered for the Save Kansas City brings in $202 million per year, representing near- sas City and lead to more efficient land use. Eaton rejected the idea that the E-tax is unfair Committee’s “Keep KC Alive” campaign, which ly 40 percent of Kansas City’s general fund paying Other economists say claims regarding the to those who work in Kansas City but live else- supported the E-tax renewal. Continued on page 4

Some other cities with E-taxes Breakdown of Kansas City’s General Fund A look at the E-tax Fiscal Year 2010-2011 Support Funds Other Birmingham Breakdown of the vote 1% 1. Gaming revenue 1. $2 million 3. 2. to renew the E-tax San Fancisco 1.5% $18.1 million 4. 2. Parking fees 5. 56,965 votes Cincinnati 2.1% $3.8 million Louisville 3. Motor fuel (gas) tax 2.2% $16.6 million 6. Columbus, Ohio 4. Court fines Earnings tax 2.5% $202.6 million $19.9 million 7. Detroit 2.5% 5. Local use tax 16,494 votes $21 million Pittsburgh 3.0% Property taxes 6. Licenses and permits $71.9 million 3.05% $34.5 million Utility taxes 7. Service charges $95.6 million Yes- 78% No- 22% Philadelphia 4% $38.4 million April 11, 2011 NEWS 3 Campus History Greek life Benjamin Campero Contributing Writer ternity Conference (NIC) was founded in 1909. It represents 73 inter- national and national men’s fraternities with approximately 5,500 chap- Greek timeline at UMKC The history of Greek life at UMKC dates back to 1952, when Alpha ters and 300,000 members in more than 800 campuses across United 1952 – Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. chartered Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated was formed. States and Canada. 1956 – Alpha Epsilon Pi chartered Since then, male and female students alike have decided to “Go The Interfraternity Council (IFC) includes Beta Theta Pi, Lambda 1956 – Delta Chi chartered Greek.” Chi Alpha, Sigma Alpha Epsilon, Sigma Phi Epsilon and Lambda The- 1956 – Tau Kappa Epsilon chartered Over the past 58 years, 28 Greek-lettered social organizations have ta Phi. 1961 – Chi Omega chartered come and gone. The National Panhellenic Conference represents 26 sororities in 1962 – Alpha Delta Pi chartered UMKC is currently home to16 different sororities and fraternities, 655 universities campuses across the United States and Canada. It was 1967 – Sigma Delta Tau chartered each with its own unique identity. founded in 1902, and it is one of the oldest and largest women’s mem- 1969 – Sigma Tau Gamma chartered Fraternities and sororities at UMKC promote brotherhood, sister- bership organization. 1971 – Sigma Delta Tau closed hood, leadership, community service and scholarship. UMKC’s Panhellenic Council members are: Alpha Delta Pi, Chi 1972 – Alpha Epsilon Pi closed The history of Greek life in North America dates back to Dec. 5, Omega, Delta Zeta and Alpha Sigma Alpha. 1972 – Zeta Phi Eta chartered 1776, when Phi Beta Kappa was founded at the College of William and A third council, the National Pan-Hellenic Council, was founded in 1973 – Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. chartered A look at the Earnings tax debate 1930 at Howard University, in Washington D.C. It is an organization of 1974 – Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. chartered Mary in Williamsburg, Va. The creation of this society was the begin- ning of what later became the Greek System. nine, known as the devine nine historically African-American, interna- 1974 – Zeta Phi Eta closed Each organization uses Greek letters in the establishment of its tional Greek-lettered fraternities and sororities. 1976 – Lambda Chi Alpha chartered name. The adoptions of Greek letters was influenced by ancient Greek Alpha Phi Alpha Incorporated, Phi Beta Sigma Incorporated, Delta 1977 – Sigma Phi Epsilon chartered legends. Originally, with the use of Greek letters, fraternities sought to Sigma Theta Incorporated, Kappa Alpha Psi Incorporated, Zeta Phi 1980 – Tau Kappa Epsilon closed adopt a degree of secrecy and distinction that identifies the Greek sys- Beta Sorority Incorporated, and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Incorpo- 1982 – Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. chartered tem. rated all fall under this council. 1987 – Delta Zeta chartered In 1851, Alpha Delta Pi was founded by Eugenia Tucker, and it soon One sorority, Delta Rho, is local and was founded in 1989. As a lo- 1987 – Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. chartered became the first secret society for women. cal sorority, Delta Rho does not have a national governing office and it 1989 – Beta Theta Pi chartered And at UMKC since 1952, fraternities and sororities have contrib- does not fall under a national umbrella organization like the three gov- 1989 – Delta Rho established (local sorority) uted greatly to student life, offering students a well-rounded and extra erning councils at UMKC. 1991 – Sigma Tau Gamma closes cirricular college experience. These organizations contribute to society Each fraternity and sorority has its own history, values, principles, 1992 – Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. chartered through their philanthropic and community service projects. recruitment process and activities. If you are interested in joining or 1998 – Beta Sigma Phi chartered They also benefit students by providing learning more about each of these organizations visit www.umkc.edu/ 2002 – Delta Chi closed them an exceptional social experience, pro- getinvolved/fraternity-sorority-affairs.asp. 2005 – Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. reactivated viding them values, helping develop their [email protected] 2006 – Sigma Alpha Epsilon chartered potential through leadership and scholar- 2006 – Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. chartered ship opportunities, and giving them a 2007 – Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. reactivated feeling of belonging. 2008 – Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. colonized At UMKC, the 16 fraternities and 2010 – Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. suspended sororities fall into three governing 2010 – Alpha Sigma Alpha colonized councils. 2010 – Lambda Theta Phi chartered The North-American Interfra- 2011 – Alpha Sigma Alpha chartered

Above: Delta Chi fraternity during homecoming in 1958. Delta Chi closed 44 years later in 2002. Photo by Mark Linville Left, above: Alpha Delta Phi at the Roo Race event for Greek Week 2011. Photo by Andre Paredes Left, below: Sigma Phi Epsilon member Peyton Higgins bowling with other fraternities and sororities. Photo by Mark Linville

Far left: Beta Theta Phi member Jay Devineni bowling during Greek Week 2011. Photo by Mark Linville 4 NEWS Vol. 78, Issue 28 Briefly Mentioned Police Blotter Mark Linville News Editor Women of Color Leadership Conference will take place April 28-29 and May 12 April 1 Kasim Hardaway Asst. News Editor collaboration and action,” said Deputy Chancellor keynote speaker for the WOCLC for adults at 6 of the DDAE Karen Dace, Ph.D. “Our efforts p.m. on May 12. 11:49 a.m. Property Damage The Annual Women of Color Leadership focus on wealth development and accumulation, Conference workshops will begin at 8:15 a.m.; A residence at 52nd and Rockhill Road Conference (WOCLC) hosted by the UMKC career planning and development, health and registration starts at 7:30 a.m. was struck by numerous eggs. Division of Diversity, Access and Equity wellness, leadership skills and educational access.” Harris-Perry is the author of “Barbershops, 12:39 p.m. Burglary (DDAE) and the Division of Student Affairs and There are two separate events that will take Bibles, and BET: Everyday Talk and Black A student at the School of Law had a Enrollment Management will present a new, all- place over the course of two days. Political Thought.” She is currently working on camera stolen from a secured room. inclusive conference. The collegiate level conference will start at 9 her book “Sister Citizen: A Text For Colored Girls 4:20 p.m. Fraud The 6th Annual WOCLC will encompass a.m. on Thursday, April 28. Who’ve Considered Politics When Being Strong Fraudulent ATM withdrawals were more students of color than ever. Kristi Ryujin, vice chancellor for diversity Wasn’t Enough.” made with an old ATM card of a Medical Initially the WOCLC served as a conference initiatives, will be the keynote speaker of the Her book is scheduled to be released later this School student organization. to support adult Black women then transitioned conference; the subject of her speech will be year. to empowering all Women of Color and even “Finding Your Voice.” A book signing will follow her keynote address. devoted a portion of the conference to high The second portion of the conference for high President and CEO of the Kauffman Center April 3 school girls of color. school girls will begin at 9 a.m. on Friday, April 29. for the Performing Arts, Jane Chu will deliver a 4:13 p.m. Burglary The conference has now become all Rocsi Diaz will address the students at 12:45 lunchtime lecture at 12:15 p.m. After returning from spring break, roommates encompassing by changing its target group to all p.m. Diaz co-anchored Black Entertainment All of the conferences will be held at Pierson of the Johnson Residence Halls returned college students of color. Television’s (BET) leading show “106 & Park” Auditorium and in the University Center. to find their room had been vandalized. “We are invested in providing a network to and was the host of “106 & Park Weekend To view a schedule of the conference events improve the participation and involvement of Countdown.” and find out more about the speakers at each April 4 Women of Color in all communities by providing Author, professor and MSNBC News conference visit www.umkc.edu/woclc/ . programs that improve communication, contributor, Melissa Harris-Perry will be the 9:01 a.m. Burglary [email protected] A card reader from the Bloch School was reported stolen. April 5 Other News 12:48 p.m. Burglary A digital camera was stolen from a camera bag in a locked storage area. Traces of radiation detected in Kansas Kasim Hardaway Asst. News Editor He said it is comparable to the radiation Unfortunately, samples collected showed April 6 received naturally by staying outdoors for about iodine-131, a radioactive isotope created by 9:49 p.m. Disturbance Minute amounts of radiation from the nuclear an hour on a summer day. nuclear fission that was also released from the A resident of Oak Place Apartments reactors in Japan have reached Kansas, but Officials made it clear ’s food supply Japanese reactors. complied for officers after his ex- according to state officials, it’s nothing to worry is safe and there is no need to take preventative Langer said the radiation detected “just girlfriend refused to leave his room. about. Officials released this information on measures against this small amount of radiation. barely” registered above the background levels of 9:01 p.m. Suspicious Activity Thursday. Monitoring radiation levels is done regularly in naturally occurring radiation. Officers investigated a marijuana scent coming “We knew it was only a matter of time before Wichita, Topeka and Kansas City. This radiation can be compared to exposure to from a room in the Oak Street Residence Hall. we found a trace, and we do mean a trace,” said, At another site researchers use more extensive cosmic rays and radioactive minerals in rocks and Director of the Bureau of Environmental Health methods for testing. soil. for the Kansas Department of Health and The site is located about 100 miles southwest of “We know that (Japanese radiation) is there April 7 Environment Tom Langer. Kansas City near the Wolf Creek nuclear reactor. because we are deliberately looking for it,” Langer 11:26 a.m. Illness Langer explained that the exposure in Kansas The assessments being done encompass all life: said. As student in the Student Union was having should not come as a surprise. the soil, plants and even wild animals. [email protected] a reaction to their prescription medication. [email protected]

“If any councilman or woman cut those servic- voted yes, you were told that you will keep Kansas E-tax: Continued from page 2 es, it would be political suicide,” Hunt said. “Get- City alive,” Hunt said. “In reality, the earnings tax ting rid of the E-tax would force them to take a is what’s killing Kansas City.” “I knew we were going to win,” Files said. “We for KC Tax Reform, which fought the E-tax re- critical look at the city’s budget and eliminate this KC Tax Reform also took advantage of a com- were worried about how the Northland would newal. slush fund that they can use to pay for whatever ment made by Keep KC Alive spokesperson Dan vote, but we were up in the Northland two weeks “My biggest issue with it is the business is- they want.” Cofran. During a debate Cofran told E-tax critics ago, and every northlander I talked to said they sue,” Hunt said. “The “Don’t work here.” were in favor because they knew how it would af- earnings tax is liter- After KC Tax Reform aired a TV ad playing up fect city services.” ally driving businesses Basically, the biggest irony of all is that if you voted yes, Cofran’s remarks, he was replaced as spokesper- Acting City Manager Troy Schulte said the loss out of Kansas City, you were told that you will keep Kansas City alive. In son. of E-tax revenue could force Kansas City to cut its mainly small busi- reality, the earnings tax is what’s killing Kansas City. “The message they were sending was, ‘Don’t police budget by one-third and lay off two-thirds nesses that don’t get TIFs -Austin Hunt, UMKC student, KC Tax Reform volunteer work here, don’t live here,’” Hunt said. “People of the fire department’s personnel. (tax increment financing).“ select where they want to live based on numerous To fill the revenue void, the city’s sales tax and There’s kind of a doughnut Hunt said the city spends $36 million per year factors; quality of schools, availability of jobs and mill levy (property tax) rates would increase, hole around Kansas City. If you’re a small busi- on tourist attractions, and much more on under”- taxes. Taxes are the one thing you can vote on, and Schulte said. ness, you’re going to Lee’s Summit, Blue Springs, performing TIF developments like the Kansas when you have the opportunity to vote to lower a Many opponents are dubious of the city’s Overland Park or Platte City, but not Kansas City. City Power and Light District, which will receive tax, that’s a rare opportunity.” claims, which they believe were exaggerated to That’s 1 percent right off the top.” $15.5 million from the city’s general fund to meet [email protected] scare voters into renewing the tax. Hunt is skeptical that an E-tax repeal would its debt obligations in 2012. Austin Hunt, a senior business major, worked equate to cuts in basic services or increased taxes. “Basically, the biggest irony of all is that if you April 11, 2011 NEWS 5 The third degree of separation

Carolyn Benton Cockefair series brings acclaimed social scientist to UMKC

Sarah Ashlock A&E Editor a reception. cussing how we influence one another, as is He talked about his work in 2010, examining influence and context. On Thursday, Dr. James Fowler, Ph.D. gave a politics, Facebook, specifically voting. He divid- Toward the end of the lecture, Fowler lecture as part of the series celebrating Carolyn ed Facebook users into three categories: some mentioned the newer aspect of social net- Benton Cockefair. would receive a message asking if they voted and working which is online. He was incredibly in- Fowler is a professor in the School of Medi- requesting a response. Some would receive the fluential in stating how we tend to inflate social cine and the Division of Social Sciences at the same message except with photos of their Face- networking influence on our actual connections University of California- San Diego. Most no- book friends who had answered the same ques- with each other. tably, he is attributed to being the first to scien- tion. Lastly, some received no such message. The average amount of Facebook friends a tifically analyze the “Colbert Bump” in 2008 and The most effective response was as most from person has is 150, that number is even higher prove its validity in his study titled, “The Colbert the Facebook generation would assume: those if the person is in their twenties or thirties. Bump in Campaign Donations: More Truthful who received the message with photos of their He found no evidence of influence Facebook Than Truthy.” He found Democratic candidates Facebook friends who had voted were the most friends have on one another. who go on Stephen Colbert’s show “Colbert Re- responsive. However, he has determined one way to study port” on Comedy Central experience a signifi- In addition to politics, social networking is Facebook friends’ connections by weeding out cant increase in campaign contributions. also proven in other areas such as obesity, hap- those acquaintances or random people whom Recently, though, he has been examining the piness or collective emotions and smoking/ we accept as a Facebook friend. He determined Financial Corner means in which we are socially con- “photo friends,” those Facebook nected. When we hear the term “so- When Fowler went on the “Colbert Report,” Stephen friends whom you either tag or Each week, the Students in the Free Enterprise (SIFE) Team from the Henry W. Bloch School of cial network” we might assume online Colbert joked “Why did you write a book instead of are tagged in a photo with on means of connection, such as Facebook Facebook. Management, with assistance from a group and Twitter. Although Fowler examines the publishing 140 characters at a time.” On average, people have of respected business people, will answer your online aspect, he emphasizes how social net- 10 photo friends. With photo financial questions. working and connection is not a new tech“- friends, there are two degrees nological invention. drinking. of connection; whereas in real connections there In Pierson Auditorium, he specifically dis- With obesity, there are three degrees of are three. So,” if your photo friend’s photo friend When is the best time to cussed “Connected: The Surprising Power of separation. This means your friend’s husband’s smokes, you are more likely to smoke as well. Our Social Networks and How They Shape Our mother can affect your weight and vice versa. What was most interesting is the scientific purchase airline tickets?” Lives,” the best-selling book he and Harvard pro- Fowler said obesity is “not just an epidemic but research done on these two degrees in terms of First, you will want to start your ticket search fessor Nicholas A. Christakis authored. can spread from person to person.” taste in music, movies, books, etc. early. The sooner you start assessing the general When Fowler went on the “Colbert Report,” Smoking also has three degrees of separation. For instance, he found the love of The Beatles trend of ticket prices, the more able you will be able Stephen Colbert joked “Why did you write a When examining social connections, Fowler was widespread. People more closely connect- to find a good deal. book instead of publishing 140 characters at a presented several cluster graphs where those ed, in the middle of the social network, liked the As a travel date approaches, plane ticket prices time?” with the strongest connections were toward the band and those more loosely connected and on tend to go up due to increasing demand. Airlines The book is about connection of all kinds, not center; those with less connection were on the the peripheral liked them as well. tend to offer their lowest prices on 21-day advance just the internet variety. peripheral. With smoking, he noted that since The Killers proved to be different. Killers fans tickets. “This is not a new phenomenon,” he said 1980, smokers have been increasingly pushed on Facebook were in tight clusters in the social On the other side of things, make sure not to get about social networking. toward the peripheral. network. too carried away with advance ticketing. Airfares He posed a couple of questions for the audi- Perhaps the most interesting for my genera- When it came to movies, those who liked fluctuate, and a lower fare may come up at a later ence to ponder before relaying scientific evi- tion are his findings when it comes to drinking. “Pulp Fiction” on Facebook tended to be in the date, so be patient. dence. Who do you discuss important matters “Although men are more susceptible to heavy center of the network (the most connected). Also, when planning your trip, consider buying with? Who do you spend your free time with? drinking,” he said. “They have no influence on Those who liked “Love Actually” on Facebook your tickets during the tourist off-season. Normally He said, on average, people list five to six people. men or women.” were on the peripheral but both movies were in ticket prices rise during the high tourist season. Despite the small number on people’s lists, Despite men’s tendency to drink more than looser clusters. As long as you start your search early, be patient, everyone is essentially interconnected in some women, women are the ones who spread their Fowler poignantly and intellectually exam- and avoid the high tourist season, you should capacity. behavior, thus influencing men and women to ined how we are all connected in an ever-in- dramatically improve your chances of finding Fowler first became interested in the subject drink. creasingly connected society but also noted the great deals on ticket prices, and save yourself some of connection after wondering why people vot- Besides a more focused view on connection, importance of real-life relationships. money. ed. “The only time your vote changes an election Fowler mentioned the concept of homophily. [email protected] is when there’s a tie,” he said. “We vote, because That is, the love of the same. We are attracted it’s what other people around us do.” and bond more closely with those who are most E-mail your questions to the Student in Free Before the lecture, I spoke with Fowler during like us. This is important to remember when dis- Enterprise Team at [email protected]. 2nd place: Story Illustration (Mark Linville) 2nd place: News Writing (Nathan Zoschke) Nowfor fall 2011 hiring semester 3rd place: Regular Column (Nathan Zoschke) Semester-long positions: 2nd place: Entertainment Review (Melissa Oribhabor) Production Manager 2nd place: Advertising Looking for individuals with an interest in graphic design. Must be thick-skinned, free on the weekends and know how to use Adobe inDesign and Photoshop. (Kate Lawler) Honorable Mention: Entertainment Review Production Assistant Looking for individuals with an interest in graphic design. Must be thick-skinned, (Kate Lawler) free on the weekends, know how to use Adobe inDesign and Photoshop, be able Honorable Mention: Sports Photography to take direction, and edit photos. (Katie Vasholtz) Copy Editor Looking for someone who has experience with AP style, and has exceptional spelling and grammar. Must be detail-oriented. News Editor Looking for individuals who are in the know. Someone who is not scared to present hard facts and current, relevant news.

Assistant News Editor Looking for individuals who have a knack for news, can take direction, and are not scared to present hard facts and current, relevant news.

Arts & Entertainment Editor Looking for individuals who love art, music, film and anything else cool about UMKC and the Kansas City area.

Sports Editor Looking for someone who loves UMKC and community sports and is well-versed in sports terminology.

Forum Editor Looking for an individual who is open and accepting of other people’s opinions.

These positions require knowledge of AP style and Sunday availability. A résumé and letter of intent for any of these positions is due by April 23. Please email [email protected]

All positions are paid. April 11, 2011 NEWS 7 U-News is a 2011 Missouri College Media Association award Division 1 winner! Find us on Facebook! 2nd place: Story Illustration (Mark Linville) 2nd place: News Writing (Nathan Zoschke) 3rd place: Regular Column (Nathan Zoschke) 2nd place: Entertainment Review (Melissa Oribhabor) 2nd place: Advertising (Kate Lawler) Honorable Mention: Entertainment Review (Kate Lawler) Honorable Mention: Sports Photography (Katie Vasholtz) 8 A&E Vol. 78, Issue 28 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Students overcome adversity together at Poetry for Personal Power Jacquelyn Hoermann Staff Writer people do in positive ways that helps them build Another participant delivered a poem titled, friendships and feel better.” “Weed,” which spoke out against illegal drug “Because April is On Tuesday, April 5, students and community The remarkable woman and story behind culture. The poem likened illegal drug culture members gathered together in Jazzman’s Café in the event was Corinna West. West served as the to white patriarchy, and its effects on poor, National Poetry the Student Union for Poetry for Personal Power. Master of Ceremonies and kicked off the event by marginalized communities. The event featured live musical performances sharing her own personal story and some of her Rob Herron, a regular participant at Month, the event and poetry readings. poetry with audience members. Undergraduate English Council Open-Mic “We invite you to open up as far as you can go, “I’m a person with mental illness,” West said. Nights, performed at Poetry for Personal Power was a perfect storm and now let’s start the show...” sang the featured “I’ve been diagnosed with up to 12 things and and blew the crowd away with his poem, “Warrior performer, Sara “Miss Conception” Glass. Glass that just shows how medical diagnosis can’t do Generation,” which expressed his feelings is a well-known poet songwriter, who frequently everything. People can find strength in different towards overcoming “social bondage” and “social for UMKC students performs at different venues in the Kansas City ways and not just through medications.” conditioning.” area and at Fresh Ink events in Lawrence, Kan. West received a grant to hold 10 Poetry for UMKC psychology student Lauren Buscher who are interested An impressive number of UMKC organizations Personal Power open-mic events at universities described the event as “a pressure free space to came out in support of the performers, including throughout Missouri. She said she loves what she share poetry.” in poetry, artistic UMKC Student Veterans Organization, the does and she hopes others will benefit as much “I like how UMKC is moving toward holding Writing Center, the Counseling Center, NAACP from these events as she has. more trendy urban events that bring to light issues expression, and Student Chapter, the African-American Student Because April is National Poetry Month, the on a global scale,” Busher said. Union and the Undergraduate English Council. event was perfect for UMKC students interested The organization makes appearances at First “The main idea of this program is that people in poetry, artistic expression and coming to terms Fridays in the Crossroads District downtown. coming to terms can use wellness tools such as exercise, spirituality, with life’s inevitable difficulties. To learn more about Poetry for Personal mindfulness, volunteering, gardening or, of The first participant was a woman who spoke Power and for information on upcoming events with the inevitable course, poetry to get through tough times in out against Islamic patriarchy and how Muslim and videos of poetry performances, visit www. their lives,” reads Poetry for Personal Power’s men abuse and marginalize women and children. poetryforpersonalpower.com. difficulties life website, www.poetryforpersonalpower.com. “We She shouted out her pain, and even took off her [email protected] are gathering stories and poems about what hijab, a head covering worn by Islamic women. presents.” Have you met Hanna? Kasim Hardaway “Well I think Hanna is a quite simple- Within the first half of the movie, it is Assistant News Editor minded, fresh young girl. I think because obvious that the forerunners of the film are she’s not judgmental or prejudice, she really the females in the cast. The dynamic of Cate “Hanna” is an action packed thriller that will influenced me. I’m not like that but it certainly Blanchett and Saoirse Ronan is impeccable, leave you at the edge of your seat in suspense. made me think of things in a different light,” which helps to grasp the audience and keep This thrill and suspense all arises from the said Ronan. them pulled in. pursuit the movie is based on. The role of Hanna Heller attracted Ronan Ronan enjoyed working alongside the Saoirse Ronan stars as the main character not only because it gave her a new opportunity entire cast but especially Blanchett, who gave of the film, Hanna Heller, a young adolescent in terms of the character she would be playing her the opportunity to learn from another who lives in an isolated cabin with her father but the athleticism demanded for the role. experienced actress. Erik Heller played by Eric Bana. “Well it was different, and I always like to “We really did have a terrific cast in this The isolated setting of Erik and Hanna do something different because it’s a bit more movie. Cate is a wonderful actress, and to served as the training grounds for Hanna. Ever challenging. Also, the fact that I get to do an observe how she works is quite fascinating. since her birth her father, Erik, has trained her awful lot of physical activity; I’ve always been She is very focused and really cares about what to become an expert assassin. Educating her quite an athletic person. I thought it would be she does.” with elaborate backstories of her childhood fun and tough work but really good preparation The Chemical Brothers, a British and keeping her away from modern-day to train and learn fight choreography. It helps electronica duo, scored the film with stunning technology, Erik implemented a rigorous make you really focused when you have those sounds. training that would one day prepare her for her pieces to learn.” Their newest album Further was featured final mission. One of the best scenes in the film is the in the film and will be released exclusively on Upon beginning her final mission, Hanna moment Erik decides that Hanna is ready iTunes March 15, 2011. does not know what is in store for her when to complete her mission. Erik salvages a box “Hanna” is a must-see film, especially for she must enter a new, unknown world and go which contains an old transmitter. Hanna those who love a great plot with great action against a deadly rival of her father. then realizes that this is the moment she had scenes to match. Hanna was a completely different role for prepared so much for. She opens the box and Saoirse Ronan. Not only did it teach her things flips the switch, sending a signal of her location as an actress but also as a person. to Marissa Wiegler, a crooked CIA agent, [email protected] played by Cate Blanchett. A A&E April 11, 2011 A&E 9 Students overcome adversity together

The ‘Fabulous Month O’ Gaypril’ Events

Johanna Poppel Staff Writer out to show appreciation to allies of the Queer The excitement will start at 8 p.m. at the this event and sharing their talents. If you have any Alliance. Stop by from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Beaumont Club. live music or poetry you would like to share, feel UMKC’s Queer Alliance presents their second Stop by between classes for some fun, this will free to come by Jazzman’s in the Student Union be located at the University Play House. April 18 - Picnic at 3 p.m. New officers will also be announced at annual “Fabulous Month O’ Gaypril.” Enjoy a picnic from noon to 1 p.m. at the this time. “This is our second year doing full on Gaypril,” April 14 - Pool Party University Play House. said Queer Alliance Vice President Sarina Smith. Splash around at the pool party located in April 25 - AIDS Walk Bake Sale “We really want to show people that we are here Swinney Recreation Center from 8-10 p.m. April 20 - Cabaret Buy tasty homemade snacks while helping a A drag and variety show that will take place in and are really active on campus.” cause from 11 a.m. to1 p.m. in Royall Hall. The Queer Alliance is hosting plenty of April 15 - Breaking the Silence the Pierson Auditorium from 7-9 p.m. Donations exciting, informative and social events that you The Breaking the Silence rally starts at 4 p.m. will be accepted for the AIDS walk. Contact the April 29 - “The L Word” will not want to miss this month, ranging from a on the corner of the J.C. Nichols Fountain. Queer Alliance if you are interested in being a Marathon Sleepover in the “Sexy Carnival” to show awareness to a drag show Relay for Life performer in the show. Lounge that will support a cause. The American Cancer Society Relay for Life April 21 - Young and Trans This television drama starts at 7 p.m. in the Here is a list of upcoming Gaypril events: starts at 6 p.m. on the University Play House This support group will be from 5 -7 p.m. in the Rainbow Lounge. April 12 - “Glee” Night walkway. Rainbow Lounge. April 30 - AIDS Walk Watch the famous musical television hit “Glee” Sexy Carnival April 22 - Kickball The walk starts at 8 a.m. in Theis Park at 47th from 7-8 p.m. in the Rainbow Lounge in the The Sexy Carnival is hosted by “Awareness is This classic game will be from noon to 2 p.m. and Oak Streets, across from the Nelson-Atkins Student Union. Sexy” and is an educational event as well as an held in the Quad from. Museum of Art. April 13 - Ally Day exciting one with the promises of a lube slip n’ [email protected] slide, so you bring your swimsuits. Excellent Pink Friday Tie Dye, karaoke and free stuff will be given Members of the Queer Alliance will be hosting 10 A&E Vol. 78, Issue 28 Save the date

Sarah Ashlock A&E Editor disease. security issues. Tuesday, April 12 Wednesday, April 13 Monday, April 11 • National Equal Pay Day Table: 11 a.m.-1 p.m, Student Union. • Wednesday Knights Chess: 5 p.m., Kansas City, Kan. Public Li- • UMKC Annual Robert F. Kennedy Symposium: 6 p.m., Stu- This information table will raise your awareness to the pay inequi- brary Main Branch. This is a chance to play chess with new people. dent Union Theater Room. Christopher Gardner will be speaking. ties women still face. This date symbolizes how far into 2011 wom- Chess boards and pieces are provided. Gardner rose from homelessness to become the owner and CEO of en must work to earn what men earned in 2010. Co-sponsored by UMKC Career Services. Thursday, April 14 Gardner Rich LLC. Author of the autobiography, “The Pursuit of • Lunch and Learn: 12-2 p.m., Student Union Room 402. Hear • Tuesday Tune-up: 12-1 p.m. Yoga for everyone. Happyness,” a New York Times and Washington Post #1 best-seller, he testimonials from a panel of UMKC students with disabilities. • ArtSounds: 7:30 p.m., Epperson Auditorium. This month’s Art- is also the inspiration for the acclaimed movie “The Pursuit of Hap- Lunch will be provided. Sounds is a collaboration between video artist Joan Grossman and pyness,” for which Will Smith, starring as Gardner, received Golden • Adult Swim tour: 6-11 p.m., 8th and New Hampshire, Lawrence, composer David D. McIntire. Joan Grossman is a media artist and Globe, Screen Actors Guild, and Academy Award nominations. His Kan. scholar who is based in Brooklyn, New York, and currently Visiting newest book, “Start Where You Are: Life Lessons in Getting From • Chaplin Film Series: 7 p.m., Tivoli Cinemas. UMKC Depart- Faculty in Film & Media Arts at UMKC. Her work spans documen- Where You Are to Where You Want to Be” was released in 2009 ment of Film and Media Arts and Tivoli Cinemas present the film tary filmmaking, video installation, web-based projects, and writing. and instantly hit Best-Seller List. Gardner is an series. “Limelight” will be showing, a film that follows Chaplin, as She is currently working on a documentary (with Tom McCourt) avid professional speaker, sharing with his audiences the keys to self- forgotten clown Calvero, who abandons his own alcoholic despon- and video installation about the experimental and utopian artists empowerment, and the message of beating the odds and breaking dency to buck up a suicidal dancer. With son Sydney, and the mo- community, “Drop City,” which will premiere at the Museum of cycles. Gardner is also a passionate philanthropist committed to mentous stage-sharing of Chaplin and Keaton, this 1952 cinematic Contemporary Art in Denver later this year. David D. McIntire is a many charitable organizations. gem expresses what Chaplin felt about life, living and growing old. • UMKC Annual Robert F. Kennedy Symposium: 6 p.m, School composer, teacher and scholar based in Kansas City. of Medicine Theater Room A&B. Dr. David Walton will be speak- • Free documentary screening: 7:30 p.m., Johnson County Com- Friday, April 15 ing. The Theme this year is "Making Change for the Future.” David munity College. The documentary screened will be “Carbon Na- • Clothesline Sale: 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Pembrooke Hill School. Running Walton focuses on public health, and he believes that it is truly nec- tion,” a film about climate change solutions. Even if you doubt the for almost 60 years, this is a huge garage sale. Free admission. essary to provide everyone with healthcare access. Whether he is in severity of the impact of climate change or just don't buy it at all, this [email protected] Boston or Haiti, he makes a huge imprint on different parts of the is still a compelling and relevant film that illustrates how solutions world, helping to change viewpoints and to eradicate and prevent to climate change also address other social, economic and national The Brick Where you’re more than just another brick in the wall Sam Towns Staff Writer trict’s infamous Brick flounders. Bar-life is dirty; TV shows are clean. Bar-life By going to the same bar every night, you also tends to be expensive. A bar is a terrible place expect to see the same folks every time. These to meet a girl too (a lesson driven home in a hilari- people may not be your friends, but hey, at least ous scene from “Superbad”). everybody knows your name. Rest assured, though, the good times do roll The Brick, one of Kansas City’s most infamous at the Brick. By hosting events every night of the bars, is located at 18th and McGee streets in Kan- week, they make sure of it. sas City. Every Monday, karaoke attacks the quaint bar. The small nighttime hotspot boasts a - pa Some (myself included) go up on the small stage tronage that may just as well have been plucked as drunken buffoons, squawking their way clum- straight from an episode of “Cheers.” During a sily through a personal favorite (what may have visit to the Brick, you’re sure to find Sam Malone’s once been a respected tune). But the majority of equivalent pouring drafts with a smile and Norm the Monday night crowd at the Brick can actually Peterson’s quipping left and right. Plus, everyone’s sing, which makes for an earful of unique and un- favorite mailman, Cliff Clavin, ranting about this expected vocal stylings. and that will be there as Dr. Frasier Crane sits by, If you’re not into public embarrassment, psychoanalyzing his every word. These “usuals” though, perhaps karaoke Mondays aren’t for you. become our security blankets. We take comfort How do you feel about tacos? Every Tuesday, in knowing that they’ll always be around and we from 5-10 p.m., the Brick offers $0.75 tacos, which grow to enjoy their company. They’ve come to can be paired perfectly with a tallboy of Pabst. form a tight-knit circle at the Brick that comes Wednesday night, from 5-10 p.m., is Burger frighteningly close to resembling a family. Night. Take a trip up to 18th and McGee streets Every day, without fail, night blankets KC. and treat yourself to a delicious burger, among the And, as if the sun going down was some sort of best that KC has to offer. Brick-Bat-signal, the whole gang scurries to 18th If you’re more of a trivia buff than a burger buff, and McGee Streets. Done with work now and then tune in on Fridays, when Roland hosts his finally at the Brick’s bar, the regulars sit, assessing own Trivia Night! the day’s damages. Each then calculates an appro- Feeling as if you’re somewhere you belong is priate level of intoxication in reparation and con- a rare condition for most. If you crave it as much sumes accordingly. as I do, acquaint yourself with the Bricks’ regulars. Topics of discussion range vastly throughout Even if your singing abilities are atrocious; even if a typical night. Revelry ensues. Simultaneously, you’re a drab psychoanalytical doctor with a suc- thought-processes regress and considerable ass- cessful spin-off series; even if you met your wife grabbing takes place. PBR puddles sully the al- in a bar; you’ll be welcomed with open arms and ready grimy tile floor. delicious, delicious tacos. This is where my analogy between the popular [email protected] TV show “Cheers” and the Crossroads Art Dis- April 11, 2011 A&E 11 Professor Profile Jim Murowchick Jacquelyn Hoermann Staff Writer “Even if someone’s project fails and the student decided they don’t want to pursue research anymore, It’s 6 a.m. on a cold March morning. UMKC Geo- that’s a success to us,” he said about SEARCH. sciences Associate Professor and Chair Jim Murow- Murowchick explains that sometimes students will chick drives down Missouri Highway 50 in the dark. think they have found their research niche only to dis- Every March, he rises before dawn and drives un- cover that they are really passionate about an entirely dergraduate researchers to Jefferson City to present different topic. their research to legislators. Much of his energy is funneled towards his stu- One student rides shotgun and asks questions, an- dents’ research and academic success. other listens from a back-row bucket seat. Unlike many grant-hungry scientists, Murowchick Murowchick is a full-time professor, principal un- cares about the time he spends in the classroom. dergraduate and graduate advisor, interim director of “There are some profs that are more interested in his department, published researcher and councilor research than teaching,” Murowchick said. to the National Association of Geoscience Teach- But he is not one of those ‘profs.’ ers, councilor to the Council on Undergraduate Re- When they arrive in Jefferson City, Murowchick search, father of two and mineral enthusiast. helps the two students set up their posters on the In his free time, he serves as director to UMKC’s Capitol building’s third-floor rotunda. Students Engaged in Artistic and Academic Research He tells them that he “will be hanging out in the program (SEARCH). shadows for most of the time.” SEARCH is an academic program that promotes He does not take due credit for the research he undergraduate research with financial support grants made possible. and formal presentation opportunities. Instead he waits in the wings, watching from be- The annual SEARCH Undergraduate Research hind a stack of papers he is grading. Symposium will be held on April 15 in Pierson Audi- Occasionally a representative or senator will stop torium and is an opportunity for students, faculty and by to quiz Murowchick’s students about their presen- staff to peek into the life of undergraduate research. tations. Murowchick appears and snaps photographs “I’ve always been around minerals,” Murowchick of the student and the legislator conversing. says. “My dad was a chief mineralogist and we trav- On the way home, Murowchick stops by his favor- eled all over. When I got to undergrad I was biology. I ite “place with the dollar shakes” in Sedalia and treats switched to geology and did real well.” the students to a shake. When asked how he balances his many positions , Jim Murowchick returns to Kansas City around Murochick replies, “I’m not sure, but I find that when 6 p.m. He said he was tired from a 12-hour day, but I’m busy, I am better-focused on what needs to be he hardly showed it. Both students thank him several done.” times for a wonderful opportunity. The highway’s horizon glows with pink and blue He returns to business as usual the next day. stratus clouds, and Murowchick points out rock for- He doesn’t catch a break or receive release time for mations created by sinkholes. doing this sort of thing. He just keeps doing it. He tells the students to beware of granite counter- [email protected] tops, because they can emit radon.

Sassy Newspaper Seeking Sassy Staff Interested in working for U-News? Email us at [email protected] 12 SPORTS Vol. 78, Issue 28 Men’s Tennis Recap

Benjamin Campero Contributing Writer While on Saturday April 9, also at Fort Wayne, Ind., the Kangaroos continued their winning streak defeating Men’s tennis accumulated nine straight wins after the Centenary Gents 7-0. Once again the Roos won every defeating IPFW and Centenary. doubles matches and they won every singles match in two UMKC men’s tennis is currently on a nine-game sets. winning streak after defeating the IPFW Mastodons and With these victories the Kangaroos improve to 11-6 the Centenary Gents. overall, remaining with a perfect 4-0 in Summit League play. Last season, the Kangaroos won 11 games in a row, According to a Summit League Preseason Poll, UMKC recording the most wins in school history. A record that the Men’s Tennis were tabbed as favorites to claim the 2011 kangaroos will seek to break this year. Summit League Tennis Championship. UMKC Men’s Tennis traveled on Friday, April 8, to Fort [email protected] Wayne, Ind. to obtain a 7-0 victory over IPFW, winning all doubles and singles match. Cameron Schoenhofer Photo courtesy UMKC Athletics Loyalty in royalty Elijah Ringler Contributing Writer You remember how signed an that the Royals current roster is destined to lose shutting down American League hitters before enormous contract to become our next Bret about 90 games and once again become irrelevant too long. You’ve been promised something. Saberhagen and how he ended up becoming our around the all-star break. You’ve heard that before. You’re hearing the Royals are going to be pretty If you are a fan you have next Jose Lima. Which is why you hear so much about the good in a few years. There is talk that they could be heard that great things are in store for the future. You remember that Bo Jackson ruled the future, the hype. a contender by then. You’ve heard this before and You have been informed that there are great sports world but wore our powder blue and how There were nine Royals minor leaguers who you’ve seen this fail. But this feels a little different. players throughout the farm system and you it was all taken away in an instant because he liked were included in the America’s Top 100 It feels a little more realistic, maybe a bit more have been asked to simply be patient and wait for playing football in his spare time. You remember Prospects List, the most by one organization bonafide. inevitable success. that this has been going on for two decades. You in the history of the rankings. Names such as But you’re a Royals fan and this still gives You’ve heard this before and you know it. remember being duped before. Mike Moustakas, Eric Hosmer and Wil Myers you the same uneasy feeling in the end and that You remember Carlos Beltran, , You’re really tired of hearing about the future, are supposed to be driving in a lot of runs in a worries you. Johnny Damon and Jermaine Dye and how Alex but that’s too bad. few years. A gaggle of left handed led by [email protected] Gordon was our next George Brett. The general consensus around baseball is John Lamb and Michael Montgomery should be Men’s soccer review Women’s soccer review Elijah Ringler Contributing Writer later and held the lead for all but 22 minutes in the match. The UMKC men’s soccer team began its spring Freshman Zachary Balthazar finished up the season with a 2-2 draw against Missouri Science & scoring after pouncing on a loose ball from close Technology (S&T) at Stanley Durwood Soccer range. The match was particularly active in the Stadium and Recreational Field on Saturday. The final two minutes as junior Luke Harman was Miners put a goal in early with a free kick from the sent off for picking up his second yellow card and edge of the 18-yard box in the seventh minute and Head Coach Rick Benben earned a yellow in the were in command for much of the match. ensuing protest. Luke Harman is also a staff writer The Roos got on the board in the 38th for U-News. minute after sophomore Tom Black placed The Roos next spring match is at Rockhurst on two consecutive penalties in the lower lefthand Wednesday at 7 p.m. Amanda Casalinuovo, corner, the first of which did not count due to [email protected] Laura Creason an infraction. S&T answered back not a minute Photo by Katie Vasholtz

Elijah Ringler Contributing Writer Head Coach Rick Benben currently leads the women’s program in addition to being the men’s Local rival Rockhurst visited Stanley soccer head coach. He stressed that the focus is Durwood Soccer Stadium and Recreational on individual development for the team during Field (DSSRF) on Friday to take on the UMKC the spring. women’s soccer team in a spring-session “We got a chance to see them play together, exhibition. The match was the first for the to work on some things,” Benben said. “But the Roos since the early March resignation of Head focus is on the individual, that’s where we’re Coach Anita Rodriguez. looking for improvement.” The Hawks held UMKC to a 0-0 draw and The Roos played Central Missouri on often looked like the better squad despite being Sunday before they wrap up the spring season in a division lower than the Roos. Neither team with games against Baker and Drury universities put together an organized and effective attack this coming weekend. Zach Balthazar and the match was often reduced to a series of [email protected] Photo by Katie Vasholtz throw-ins.

14 FORUM Vol. 78, Issue 28 Disclaimer U-News is the official newspaper of UMKC, however, we remain an independent student newspaper. The views of individual writers do not represent the publication or university as a whole. All university students are given an opportunity to join and participate in U-News.

Tote Presh Ish Ryte Hurr (translation - totally precious s#*! right here) Kasim Hardaway love it.” Scenario: Two friends discuss a rather Asst. News Editor Scenario: Two friends are catching awkward experience which the one of the up after the weekend. One of the friends friends expresses to the other. The other My Facebook status a couple of days explains to the other how he/she friend totally agrees with the other friend’s ago was an expression of my dislike of watched “The Notebook,” a precious, feelings toward the situation. humanity... sad right? heart-wrenching movie. The other friend 4. Friend 1: “That was so awk. I hope I However, I don't care, things need to expresses his/her jealously, because he/she never have to do that again.” be said. Without further ado here was my thought they would be seeing it together. Friend 2: “TOTE.” status: 2. Friend 1: “Have you seen “The If you use this shortened dialect I strongly "jelly, perf, presh, ridic, obvi... if you Notebook,” it is so presh. I almost cried.” advise you to stop and realize the people are a person that uses 2 or more of these Friend 2: “I AM SO JELLY, I wanted to around you are thinking the same thing I words on a regular basis, please do me the go see that movie with you.” am, they just may not be willing to say it. favor of removing me as your friend. Stop Scenario: Two friends are talking about That's where I come in. shortening words, they are meant to be that the video game, Halo. One of the friends So when you hear your friends or long." has been trying to beat a level for hours colleagues talking as if a butcher is at their I don't know why our generation thinks which he/she thinks is ridiculous. The other throats chopping words in half, simply shortening words is “cute” or acceptable. It friend beat the level with ease and did so remind them of how beings with higher really isn't. For all intents and purposes, we in an hour, obviously showing his level of levels of intelligence speak. will label this the “shortened dialect.” expertise at “Halo.” It's what a real friend would do. Here are a few examples of its usage: 3. Friend 1: “This level is so ridic. I have [email protected] Scenario: Two friends shopping at a been trying to beat it for the past two hours.” store, one discovers a bag that will match the Friend 2: “I beat that in an hour, no joke, I other friend perfectly. am an expert, obvi.” 1. “That bag is perf for you, everyone will

Coffee please, decaf. Greta Moore Staff Writer to cut out that customer base? Drinking decaffeinated coffee still produces the same After David Letterman's heart bypass surgery in 2000, he began psychological moment of happiness that regular coffee gives. It My father and I try to have a meal together once a week. A few drinking decaf from his “Late Show” mug. He was doing it by is more the sugar that gives us pleasure. When ordering coffee, weeks ago, we had breakfast at First Watch. doctor's orders. He joked, “Oh, God, I hate decaffeinated coffee. It's it is still permitted to add as much sugar as you want. If you are a The waiter asked, “Coffee?” useless warm brown water. … It’s like low-alcohol gin. What’s the true sugar fiend you may opt for a flavored syrup, like chocolate, “No thanks,” my dad said. point?” vanilla, hazelnut, or many others found at your local coffee shop and The waiter looked to me. The attitude that drinking coffee is about the buzz is held by supermarket. “I'll have some decaf.” many people. A study published in 2010 casts doubt on this notion. When ordering decaf, it is best to seek decaffeination done by the “Decaf,” he asked with his mouth agape. According to a June 3, 2010 article at Science Daily, titled “Coffee Swiss water process or saying “Naturally Decaffeinated.” The Swiss “Yes,” I patted my huge round belly, “I'm pregnant, you see.” Consumption Unrelated to Alertness.” water process uses activated charcoal or carbon filters to decaffeinate “Yes, of course,” he said as he stumbled away bewildered. “Frequent coffee drinkers develop a tolerance to both the anxiety- without chemicals. This was not the first awkward moment that happened when I producing effects and the stimulatory effects of caffeine. While When coffee is decaffeinated naturally, it is done with ethyl ordered decaf. Coffee shops all over town have been puzzled when frequent consumers may feel alerted by coffee, evidence suggests acetate. Ethyl acetate is found in fruits and is not harmful. Decaf I ordered a decaf mocha. Most baristas look at me like, “Why would that this is actually merely the reversal of the fatiguing effects of is your friend. Some coffee roasters swear decaffeinated coffee you want that?” acute caffeine withdrawal.” has a deeper flavor than regular coffee, brought out by the natural I have even had coffee shops tell me they don't carry decaf The study also found that people who are not regular coffee methods of decaffeination. Real coffee drinkers don't need caffeine. coffee of any type. Coffee shops that don't carry decaf are doing a drinkers experience anxiety after drinking coffee rather than Real coffee drinkers drink coffee because they like it. great disservice to those with heart conditions, irritable stomachs, alertness. According to Science Daily, “Given the increased [email protected] heartburn, insomnia and who are pregnant. There are so many propensity to anxiety and raised blood pressure induced by caffeine reasons to drink decaf for health reasons, why would a business want consumption, there is no net benefit to be gained.” April 11, 2011 FORUM 15

Letter to the Editor Word on Campus Johanna Poppel Staff Writer April 12 is the national observance of Third, women must stand up for equal pay be necessary. For employers who continue Equal Pay Day, the day when women and and for themselves. If a prospective employer to pay women less, legal penalties or EEOC men alike recognize the wage gap between cannot show that women and men are paid action may be the only remedies. What do you think about working women and men. The United States equally for the job you’re seeking, it makes Pay equity legislation is being introduced Census Bureau found in 2010 that women sense to look elsewhere. across the country and United States’ involvement are paid, on average, 77 cents for every dollar Positive signs include a hiring process Missouri is no different. House Bill 349, men make. That is a gap of 23 cents. that seeks diversity through affirmative introduced by State in the conflict in Libya? Here in Missouri women’s pay doesn’t action, written pay and benefit policies, job Representative Stacey Newman, requires Kip Bonds even measure up to the national average. We descriptions and evaluation procedures. A equal pay for equal work; would establishes a Freshman, Criminal Justice are paid just 75 percent of men’s pay. union for workers is another good sign. state commission to study wage disparity and Here are four ways to close the pay gap Women in unions earn 35 percent more requires employers to document their wages. “I don’t believe we should from the National Committee on Pay Equity: than women in non-union workplaces. Pay inequity not only hurts women, but their get involved over there.” First, we need to keep affirmative action Women who are paid less than men must families as well. programs in place to make sure education, discuss the problem with their employer. If jobs and promotion opportunities are open there’s a union ask their help. If discrimination -Jennifer Weisbrod, Senior at University of and offered to qualified women. persists, file a complaint the U.S. Equal Missouri, Legislative Second, employers must examine and Employment Opportunity Commission. Intern for Rep. Stacey Newman 73rd correct their pay practices. A fourth way to close the pay gap is through District Employers can get help in examining their federal legislation such as the Paycheck Patrick Fry pay practices through equal pay self-audit Fairness Act and the Fair Pay Act. That’s not Senior, Art History guidelines from the US Department of Labor. a solution popular with employers, but it may “I believe it is a ploy to seize resources and consolidate power for the global monetary network.”

Maggie Henehan I like pits! Junior, Spanish and Psychology Jill Schleiden Copy Editor it leaves a round char mark on the step. I comment, “It’s black…” “I think it is bull-honkey. I do This hadn’t happened for a long time. And Kate finishes, “Like my hole. I believe we only are there for Years, if I remember correctly. But it hap- mean heart! I mean heart!” oil interest.” pened twice in the last week. Words Why, oh why does this happen? www. aligned themselves neatly in my throat patientslikeme.com says this is a symptom awaiting orders from my mind, but in- of aphasia, caused by brain damage from stead of what I meant to say, out comes— injury or disease. S#*! What have I done Viola Kleiser utter embarrassment. (Or since we’re talk- to myself? Was it that bout of mononu- Junior, Psychology and ing about misspeaking, should I say udder cleosis two years ago? Smoking a pack a Philosophy embarrassment?). day? Hitting my head on the lamp by my Scene one: I am at work, cleaning up front door one too many times? I resolve “The U.S. shouldn’t get the brunch tables. Massive bowls and hot to quit smoking, to drink gallons of orange involved, but somebody buffet pans of food set in boiling water to juice (gotta get that vitamin C!) and pos- needs to put an end to it.” keep warm are being cleared and dumped sibly move my porch chairs, or at least not unceremoniously into the trashcan by me stand up so fast. and my coworkers. But there’s a simpler answer, surely. One girl is scraping smoked salmon off Maybe I was thinking about something of a board shaped like a fish. I think to my- else while I was speaking, or my subcon- Frank Lillig self, why, the brown goop in this pan I’m scious hijacked my brain mid-thought Sophomore, Business scraping looks like poo. And I announce and told me to spurt out something ab- to the restaurant, “Fish, I’m going to poop surd. Or maybe it’s just one of those inex- “The militaristic effort is on your head!” plicable things that happens to everyone. over the top but I do feel the Scene two: A new guy at work is at the All too often little quirks and happen- situation needs to be more in computer, entering in food orders. Per- ings cause us undue worry. And it’s easier control.” sonal boundaries are basically nonexistent to do with all these illness engines like amongst servers, so I sneak up behind him Webmd to tell us all the ways our bodies to tickle him. Everyone is watching. can go horribly wrong. (Or maybe I’m just I stick my hands under his arms and a hypochondriac, or maybe I shouldn’t Emmet Starkey wiggle my fingers, and he spins around have a computer, or, or, or…) Sophomore, Music Education to face me, baffled. Here is where a nor- It’s time to put down the mouse and mal person would explain that they were stop worrying about all these little things. “First off, our society should be trying to tickle him. Not me. I say, in a It’s embarrassing saying the wrong thing, knowledgable of what is going gruff, creepy voice that comes out before but frankly, it’s pretty funny. “Pooping on on over there. Secondly, we I think, “I like ‘pits.” a fish’s head?” “I like pits?” Without all our should be able to demonstrate Scene three: Kate and I are smoking little oddities, the world would be a much a democratic society and make less amusing place. on the front steps of the U-News office. decisions on our efforts.” She grinds the butt into the cement, and [email protected] [email protected] Poll question How many friends do you have on Facebook? A. 0-300 B. 301-700 C. 701-1,000 D. More than 1,000 Go to unews.com and tell us your answer! Last weeks poll results What do you think of Rebecca Black’s song “Friday?” Games 54% It’s terrible. Please turn it off. 19% Haven’t heard it and have no desire to. 15% It’s changed my outlook on days of the week. 12% It’s awesome, I love it. 0% It’s okay, I guess...

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