NIVERSITY NEWS June 1, 2011 ISSUE 31, VOLUME 78 UMKC’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER

Cover article SPORTS: NEWS: A&E FEATURE Professor Interim Dean Local group UMKC looks competes in 2appointed for 9MRM displays 14aheads for international Arts & Sciences immense talent another successful year 22motorcycle race 2|News Vol. 78, Issue 31 New leadership for College of Arts & Sciences Vorsto t return as Economics professor; Associate Dean Wayne Vaught to step in as interim

Nathan Zoschke worked to bring the A&S faculty chairs and it’s one of those things I helped develop Production Manager/Copy Editor together. 10 years ago,” Vorst said. “I think we need to “In any organization, you’re going move that back to a front burner.” n April 18, Karen Vorst announced to have conflicting arguments and On May 9, an email from Provost Gail her resignation as Dean of the disagreements,” Vorst said. “My Hackett announced the appointment of College of Arts and Sciences (A&S), management style has been very open, Associate A&S Dean Wayne Vaught as Oeffective June 30. transparent, inclusive. We’ve assembled Interim Dean. The resignation, announced to a group of a really good set of chairs who are eager Vaught, who teaches philosophy alongside A&S faculty chairs, came after more than five to lead. They’ve just been a real joy to his position as associate dean, said he was years as dean. work with.” contacted by the provost shortly after Vorst Vorst said she first considered the idea in With sharp budget cuts at the state announced her resignation. late March this year, and has stated there are level, managing A&S has not been an “The provost met with all the associate both personal and professional reasons for her easy task. deans and all the chairs in the department and resignation. “We’re all sort of scrambling, college and asked for information on potential “These decisions don’t happen lightly,” because the budget’s been cut by the candidates for the position,” Vaught said. Vorst said. “It’s not like you wake up one day state, and we’re trying to figure out Vaught will assume the position of Interim and you’re done. You come to a point when how to weather that storm,” Vorst said. Dean July 1, and said he will work to continue there are new perspectives, new visions. We “We need to get more students in here the vision established for A&S. had a good vision, and we had things working. and provide the best quality education “I think it’s a critical time for the college,” There are a whole host of things that come possible, and I think we’ve been able to Vaught said. “There are a lot of initiatives into this kind of consideration.” do that. Attracting students hasn’t been going on. I’ve worked closely with the current There has been speculation as to reasons for an overwhelming issue.” dean on a lot of those as they’ve pertained to Vorst’s resignation, including pressure from Vorst has also been an aggressive undergraduate education, and I believe I will Provost Gail Hackett. fundraiser. Under her leadership, be able to effectively serve that role. Overall, In Issue 30 of U-News, Political Science nearly $3 million has been raised for I think that the college has been moving in a Department Chair Dr. Harris Mirkin, a Associate Dean of Arts & Sciences (and soon-to- A&S through donations since 2008, very positive direction.” member of the U-News Board of Publishers, be Interim Dean) Wayne Vaught. endowing funding for 177 scholarships. Photoy b Nathan Zoschke Aside from business as usual, Vaught said said he thought the decision may have been Vorst also saw a $5 million increase he will oversee the creation of an honor’s influenced by someone other than Vorst. in automatic scholarship waivers for college and revision of general education “She [Vorst] said that the time had come to came to,” Vorst said. “We had an agreement incoming students based on ACT requirements. go, but I wouldn’t say that this was initiated by about my resigning. There are always going results and class rank. Vaught praised Vorst’s work as dean. the dean,” Mirkin said. “I don’t know if there to be some issues out there in which people Vorst said she is both proud and humbled “I think the current dean has established was a big fuss or what, but I think that she was differ.” by the accomplishments of A&S faculty. a pretty strong group of associate deans and Vorst said there wasn’t “I’ve had such an extraordinary time in this there is a very committed faculty,” Vaught I’ve had such an extraordinary time in any conflict over the office,” Vorst said. “What students may not said. “Together, we will work through this this office. I’ve worked with so many budget or enrollment to know is that we have award winning faculty. transition phase to make this as seamless a outstanding faculty and staff. lead to the decision to This year alone since January, we’ve had five process as possible.” resign. faculty win national fellowships and awards.” Vorst was also enthused about Vaught’s “ This includes two prestigious Guggenheim -Karen Vorst, Dean of Arts & Sciences In Issue 30, History selection as Interim Dean. Department Chair Dr. fellowships. “Wayne has been in this office as Associate shoved. That would be my guess.” Gary Ebersole noted that five years is about Vorst said it was rare for a publically-funded Dean for two years,” Vorst said. “He has ex- Mirkin said Vorst and Hackett didn’t always the average length of a dean’s tenure perience as department see eye-to-eye. nationally.” chair, and this year will “I think Karen’s style and Gail Hackett’s Vorst said she wasn’t sure of an average I think it’s a critical time for the college... be promoted to full pro- style were different,” Mirkin said. “Karen tenure, but was aware of deans who have fessor. He’s an excellent tends to be communal and her decision- Overall, I think that the college has been served for much longer lengths than she. choice.” making, and Gail is more hierarchical.” moving in a very positive direction. “It takes a while to really get going in a Vaught said a search Specifically, Mirkin noted conflict over the “-Wayne Vaught, Associate Dean of Arts & Sciences position like this,” Vorst said. “The college committee is being orga- college’s budget and enrollment. is very complicated; it’s the biggest unit nized to find a permanent “There were areas of conflict about the new on campus with the most diverse group of institution to receive even one Guggenheim dean, and that he expects an earnest search budget model and the amounts of money that academic units, departments and faculty.” fellowship. next fall. The search, he said, will be national, would come out,” Mirkin said. “I don’t know After June 30, Vorst will take a year off although he” isn’t aware of other specifics. Vorst added some have speculated her if the provost thought the college was doing resignation was due to low faculty approval, before returning to the classroom as an Hackett could not be reached for comment enough to grow enrollment.” although this is not the case. Results from the economics teacher. in time for this article. When asked about Hackett, Vorst denied 2011 faculty senate surveys found 78 percent Upon her return, Vorst plans to develop a [email protected] being pressured to resign. of A&S faculty wanted Vorst retained. course on the Kansas City economy. “This is a decision that the provost and I Among other things, Vorst said she has “It really fits on with our urban mission, June 1, 2011 News|3 Student Success Center will give University Center a boost

Nathan Zoschke In November 2010, $4.1 million in bonds Production Manager/Copy Editor was approved by the University of Missouri Board of Curators to fund the project. n the near future, students will no longer However, the bonds will only cover part of have to worry about making multiple the cost. visits to the Administrative Center to “The $4 million is not going to do a whole deal with UMKC’s numerous offices. lot for us,” Tyler said. “There’s a funding gap Instead, they will be able to work with for us, and we’re going to have to address that I at some point.” several administrative departments at a one-stop shop office, which will open in the Tyler also said it has not yet been decided University Center as part of the planned whether the renovations to the University Student Success Center. Center to accommodate the Student Success Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs and Center will be done all at once or in phases. Enrollment Management Mel Tyler said After the renovations, Tyler said Pierson the idea of a one-stop shop came after the Auditorium, the Chancellor’s Dining room university collected student survey results. and Rooms 106 and 107 will be available for The University Center, built in 1961, will undergo more than $5 million in renovations to conferencing. “The whole program of this building is accomodate the planned Student Success Center. Photoy b Nathan Zoschke centered around that data,” Tyler said of the During construction, the cafeteria will remain open. survey results. “What we heard from students project timeline has not yet been finalized, where students can get help from faculty through several surveys is that students really “It’s going to be challenging, but we have although when the project was announced members on undergraduate work. to have that service for students during the get tired of going to two or three places to take in November 2010, Bob Simmons, Vice The ideas for the Student Success Center care of their business.” construction,” Tyler said. “We’re trying to Chancellor of Facilities, said he expected the are based on what Tyler calls a “university- work that it won’t affect service or the quality Although the one-stop shop is still in its Student Success Center to reach completion college” model. planning stage, as is all of the Student Success of meals we deliver there.” in either fall 2012 or spring 2013. “It’s a combination of things,” Tyler said As of now, the biggest obstacle facing the Center, Tyler said representatives from Several campus organizations will relocate of the model. “It’s really looking at a way of various offices will be cross-trained to work Student Success Center is getting the funding to the University Center, including the Center serving a population of students in one place. together. with students to handle all of their official for Academic Development, Writing Center, There’s a lot of different models of them university business at one location. “We need to make sure that the funding Career Services and Disability Services. The around the country, and it’s really based on flows well for students and we continue to “Students will be able to get all their MindBody Connection, already located in the the goals and objectives of the university and answers at this one-stop area,” Tyler said, “and know we have the right set of offices in the University Center, will remain as part of the their ability to key in on a certain population building that will support student success,” if that person can’t get that communication, Student Success Center. of students.” there will be a means of communicating back Tyler said. Also to be included in the center is an Because the Student Success Center is [email protected] with those offices.” advising service for students with undeclared still in its planning stage, many details of the Tyler said a construction schedule and majors and an undergraduate research area project have yet to be worked out.

WEPT: the good&the bad Students, faculty discuss the Written English Proficiency Test

Lindsay Adams News Editor to graduate from UMKC. Students usually Martin-Bowen explained that when she standardized testing device for the University take the WEPT their sophomore year. It is attempted to put the reading packets online of Missouri, but I think that that could be he Written English Proficiency compulsory to earn a C average in English for students to print themselves, few followed incorporated into a class,” Walton said. “You Test (WEPT) has been the 110 and 225, as well having 45 credit hours, the instructions correctly or even printed off could have a standardized test in the class. As subject of dispute for many years before taking the WEPT. Students are the packet. far as having to take the time to plan that test at UMKC. Many students feel it required to take the WEPT before enrolling Some question whether the existence of into your schedule, along with classes, I think Tis unnecessary. There are some students who in any WI classes, which must be taken in the WEPT allows professors to let students that college is crazy enough already.” wish to eradicate the test completely. Every order to graduate. fall through the cracks in the required The WEPT was put into place by UMKC few years, groups of students rally together Many students believe that the core English classes and lowers the professors’ after they cut the final test in the English 225 trying to do away with the WEPT, however, curriculum requirements of English 110 and accountability. class. As Martin-Bowen explained, “UMKC the WEPT still remains at UMKC. 225 are enough to test a student’s competency As Jack Walton, a transfer student studying primarily instituted the WEPT to replace the Lindsey Martin-Bowen, lecturer for the in writing. They argue that if students pass creative witing, said, “If they are in a system English Composition II final.” English and PACE departments and Writing both these classes, then they have enough where they are not obligated to produce good Some say it would be more convenient to Assessment Coordinator, complains about writing proficiency. writers in their class, then why would they? I have the WEPT planned into a class. Many what she calls the “Ax the WEPT” mindset. This leads some to the conclusion that the think in the first two classes or so, your comp students dislike being forced to find time to She believes the WEPT is necessary to ensure WEPT is a waste of time and money. While classes, they should be able to produce an take the WEPT test outside of class. On the students are prepared for Writing Intensive the WEPT does charge five dollars to each efficient writer.” other hand, to others it is helpful to be able to (WI) classes. student for printing costs, Martin-Bowen said, Another suggestion is that the WEPT plan the test on their own time. As opposed Taking the WEPT has been mandatory “The fee covers copying costs for the reading and English 225 should be incorporated, to having an extra test in a class, the student is since the 1990s, and is still a requirement packets only. It remains quite minimal.” “I understand the WEPT provides a -Continued on Page 6 4|News Vol. 78, Issue 31 Looking for a place to live? Residential options are abundant near UMKC’s two campuses

Melissa Oribhabor Managing Editor Place Apartments. This is an option for students who want a bit more space or who ne of the most exciting aspects of want to live with a few friends. You can get up going to college is the opportunity to a four bedroom/four bathroom apartment to move out on your own (or with that is fully furnished. You still get to be close Ofriends). There are many housing options in to campus, but you have your own place that Kansas City, and finding the right place can is away from UMKC enough that you don’t seem like a daunting task, but it can be much feel like you “live on campus.” The building apartments. With high-end design and mostly Whether you choose to live in the dorms or easier if you know where to look. is highly secure and has desk attendants, so parents need not worry. For more information, reasonable prices, Mac Properties is a great in your own house, make sure before you sign The residence halls visit www.umkc.edu/HOUSING/apartments. idea for upperclassmen and older students a lease to view the place, and take a copy of the For many incoming freshmen, the obvious asp. who want to be completely independent from lease home with you. You should go over the housing choice is the dorms or “residence campus and close to Kansas City life. For terms with your family, especially if this will halls.” This is a convenient way to stay Longfellow Heights more information, visit www.macapartments. be your first place. on campus and have many resources not Located next to the Hospital Hill campus, com. Know whether you’ll want a six-month, available to people living off campus, such as this is an apartment complex for independent nine-month or 12-month lease, and if the Resident Assistants. They are student leaders students, students with families and non- UMKC Homes UMKC owns many of the houses around place you choose doesn’t offer the length of who exist to make the transition into college students. There are many floor plans to campus, and those homes can be rented from lease to fit your needs, move on. You don’t easier. They can help, whether it’s a problem choose from, including townhomes, and the university. Many people would prefer to want to be stuck paying for an apartment over with a roommate or a problem with studying. even low-income prices if you are financing live in a house instead of an apartment, but the summer if you’re not living there. Also, You can choose who you live with or you can it alone. It is a gated and secure apartment also still want to be close to campus. This is many places will require a guarantor (usually be placed with a roommate. The downside is complex that is within walking distance to the one of the best ways to do it. This option also a parent or guardian) signature if you don’t the rooms are small and you have to share a Hospital Hill campus and is right by the metro allows pets and is within walking distance make at least three times the rent per month. bathroom, but the experience of living in the bus stop. For more information, visit www. from campus. Prices are reasonable, about the Make sure you know all of this before writing dorms is a rite of passage for many students. longfellowheightsapts.com/. same as you’d pay for an apartment, but with a any checks to hold an apartment or paying For more information, visit www.umkc.edu/ MAC Properties bit more freedom to make the place your own. any money down. This will save you a big housing/. In an attempt to revitalize Midtown, For more information, visit www.cohenesrey. headache in the long run. Oak Place Apartments Mac Properties has transformed many com/copy/apartments/property_profile. [email protected] Across the street from campus are Oak old buildings into beautiful and modern asp?pid=780.

Safety Tips from Officer Tedesco What you can do to prevent sexual assault he month of April was designated and GHB. These drugs are colorless, odorless, protect yourself from stranger crime, to get someone drunk, threaten them, or as Sexual Awareness month, and and tasteless. The effects happen within 15 always lock your door when home or away. pester them to ‘get’ sex, they don’t really although the month has passed now I to 30 minutes and can last for hours. Effects Don’t admit anyone into your residence want it and neither person will enjoy it. thoughtT I would put out some tips to help you can include dizziness, feeling intoxicated, hall. Report any suspicious persons or • Don’t pressure your friends to have sex. guard yourself from being a victim. sleepiness and amnesia-like symptoms. activity to University Police. Call for an Sex should be a private decision, not a Sexual Assault Information Some precautions that can on-campus walking escort when you are game or an expression of dominance. Rape and sexual assault are not just a help you reduce the risk without one, extension 1515. • Take responsibility for finding out what woman’s problem. Sexual assault happens • Listen to your gut feelings. If you feel your partner does and doesn’t want to do everywhere, every day and every minute to from these drugs: threatened, leave the situation and go to a sexually. Assume that silence means no, women and men of all ages. Research has • Only drink from unopened containers or safe place. and stop to ask if specific sexual activities found that: drinks you’ve seen poured. • Avoid guys who are homophobic and/or are desired. • 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men have been • Never leave your drink unattended. don’t respect women. Don’t hang out with • Watch out for your friends, especially if the victim of rape or attempted rape. • Avoid group drinks like punch bowls. them, and don’t invite them into your they’ve been drinking or doing drugs. • 90 percent of the victims knew their If you feel really tired or really drunk, home. Remember: No one deserves to be raped. assailants. you may be feeling the effects of a drug. • Make sure you have friends who have your Perpetrators are responsible for their own • 1 in 12 men admitted to having fulfilled Tell a friend and go for immediate medical back, especially when you’re drinking. actions. Survivors are never to blame. the legal definition of rape. assistance and drug screening. These drugs What You Can Do To Protect As always, let’s be aware of our surroundings • 85 percent or more of sexual assaults can metabolize within the body in a short Our Community: and look out for one another. Have a great involve alcohol. period of time and may be undetectable if too summer. much time has elapsed. • Make it clear to your friends that you don’t Patrick Tedesco is an officer at the UMKC Rape Drugs Sexual Assault Risk Reduction; What You think it’s okay to force someone to have Police Department. To contact Tedesco, email Alcohol is the number one rape drug. Other Can Do To Reduce Your Risk: sex, no matter what. [email protected] or call 816-235-1515. drugs increase the risk of sexual assault when • Practice good personal safety habits. To • Don’t ever tell friends to lie or manipulate slipped into a drink, i.e. Royhypnol, Ketamine, to get sex. Tell your friends that if you have June 1, 2011 News|5

Demolition of the Oak Street Parking Structure began May 27, leaving the Volker campus with more than 700 fewer parking spaces. Photoy b Nathan Zoschke Parking Operations addresses demolition of former Oak Street Parking Structure Nathan Zoschke accessibility features, including three elevators deal with both more cars and fewer parking for students who live on campus and have a Production Manager/Copy Editor and two elevated walkways. One will cross spaces at the same time. pressing need to park on the Volker campus. Cherry Street and lead to the James C. Olson Cone said permit rules for the summer This will allow students who live on campus tudents returning to UMKC this Performing Arts Center (PAC). The other will semester remain unchanged. to purchase Commuter passes and park on the summer and next fall will have a more terminate at a sidewalk leading to the Student • Students who live in the Oak Place Apart- Volker campus. difficult time finding parking on the Union. ments have the option of purchasing a sum- • Commuter permits cost $55 for the sum- SVolker campus. Other features will include an electric car mer permit for $80 for the Oak Place garage, mer semester and $110 per semester, fall and The Oak Street Parking Structure, at 50th counter at each entrance letting drivers know and fall and winter permits for $160 per se- winter. The commuter permit allows students and Oak streets, is being demolished to make the number of available spaces in the structure, mester. to park on either campus 24/7. room for the future Cherry Street Parking bike storage, electric car charging stations and • Oak Place residents will be given priority • Evening parking is $47 for the summer se- Structure, slated to open in August 2012. secured showers for bikers and commuters. until July 1, when students in the Oak Street mester and $93 per semester, fall and winter. On May 16, the site of the parking structure The UMKC Police and Mail Services will also and Hermann and Dorothy Johnson resi- However, Area 38 and Area 5, located by the was taken over by J.E. Dunn Construction, relocate to the new Cherry Street garage. dence halls will be eligible to buy permits for PAC, will be restricted during the evening. who will be responsible for the demolition of But until the opening of the Cherry Street the Oak Place garage. Evening passes allow students to park in per- the current garage and its replacement with a Parking Structure, the Volker campus will • All students who live on campus also have mit lots after 4:15 p.m. newer, updated parking structure. be short 700-some parking spaces, adding the option of purchasing a remote permit for • All students with a state-issued handicap Built in 1960 as a temporary parking further strain on the already cramped parking the cost of $44 per semester that allows them license plate or statement of need from a li- structure, the Oak Street garage is 20 years past situation on campus. to park on the Hospital Hill campus and take censed physician are eligible for disability per- its useful life, according to Vice Chancellor of Parking Operations Manager Michelle a shuttle back to UMKC. However, students mit, which allows them to park in any student Facilities Bob Simmons. Cone said 500 more parking permits were who work or attend classes on the Hospital or faculty-staff lot on campus. The replacement five-level garage will hold issued in Fall 2010 than the previous fall Hill campus are ineligible for the remote pass. For more information on permits, visit 1,500 spaces, twice the capacity of the current semester, and demand is expected to grow as • However, Cone said there will be a waiver www.umkc.edu/adminfinance/parking/. garage. It will also include new handicap enrollment increases, meaning UMKC will program through the Student Affairs Office [email protected] briefly mentioned Louis Trigg Asst. News Editor UMKC has been honored for its active role offers additional ways to become involved in works from admired writers such as James in community affairs. the area. Last year, more than 1,600 students T. Farrell, Joyce Carol Oates, and Richard UMKC receives national “It is a testament to the faculty, staff and participated, serving 9,000 hours. Hugo. The online database carries more than recognition for community students at UMKC, who devote tens of New Letters magazine wins 7,500 poems, stories and essays from more outreach thousands of hours annually to community Pushcart Prizes than 120 previous issues. service,” said UMKC Chancellor Leo ecently, New Letters quarterly magazine Pushcart Prizes, determined by Pushcart he Corporation for National and Morton, “much of which is focused on celebrated two Pushcart Prizes for works Press, are given to the best writings in the Community Service (CNCS) underserved populations and the needs of Rpublished in 2010. small presses. recognizedT the University of Missouri- disadvantaged youth.” “Logophilia,” an essay by B.H. Fairchild, Fairchild and Conklin join other renowned Kansas City (UMKC) for its participation UMKC often hosts seminars and lectures and “Rockaway,” a short story by Lydia writers like Junot Diaz and Oates as prize in volunteering and civic engagement, listing for metropolitan residents, seeking to Conklin, both received awards for their recipients. the school to the President’s 2010 Higher promote community involvement. CNCS appearances in the 2010 summer edition of New Letters recently enjoyed similar Education Community Service Honor Roll. encourages those types of gestures of New Letters. acclaim when its radio counterpart, New This honor roll, the highest federal participation. While Conklin is a newer writer, Fairchild Letters on the Air, was nominated for an recognition of colleges and universities for The honor roll specifically acknowledged is widely known for his anthologies of essays international radio award. service learning and community outreach, the Institute for Urban Education, Midwest and poems, notably The Art of the Lathe. Along with BBC Radio 4, RTE Radio has been used to recognize the contributions Center for Nonprofit Leadership, UMKC Although he grew up in southwest Kansas 1, and Radio Television Hong Kong, New of higher institutions since 2006. Health Sciences Wellness Fair, and the 40 years ago, he cites in his interviews the Letters on the Air was recently a finalist in As one of Kansas City’s largest employers, Sojourner Health Clinic. impact the area has on his writing, especially the Culture and Arts category at the 2010 the university is fiscally invested in the area. Students looking to get involved can find his use of metaphor. New York Festivals International Radio However, it has maintained a longstanding events at Serve 2 Learn, the UMKC service- UMKC began publishing the magazine in Programming Awards. commitment to effort and service. learning program. 1934. Since then, the magazine has contained [email protected] This marks the fifth consecutive year The UMKC Office of Student Involvement 6|News Vol. 78, Issue 31 David and Alex go to Washington Congressional internships offered through UMKC’s Truman Center

Nathan Zoschke five chapters of “Congress and its Members,” ‘Wow, that was an eye- Production Manager/Copy Editor a government textbook Neuman presented to opening experience.’” the interns in April. Both Jordan and ach year, the Harry S. Truman Center They are also required to a keep a daily Conaway said they were for Governmental Affairs places two journal of their experiences interning, which excited to have the op- students in a government office in they will use to write a 15-page essay that will portunity. Washington,E D.C. be graded by Political Science Professor Dr. “I’m stoked,” said Jor- The Truman Center, which operates Elizabeth Miller. dan, a mass communi- under the College of Arts and Sciences, was Internship duties vary based on an intern’s cations and journalism proposed by the former president in 1969, but skills and experiences and the workload of the major. “This is probably not established until 2006. office’s regular staff. the best opportunity of The month-long internship placements, However, Neuman pointed out that a my undergraduate ca- first offered in 2008, are paid for entirely by month-long internship is too short for interns reer. I’m going to meet the Truman Center and Student Services and to do policy work. Because of this, Neuman so many people. I’ve al- allow students to earn three credits through said, Truman interns are usually involved ways been interested in the Political Science Department. in the constituency service aspect of a public policy and gov- David Jordan, Jr. (left) and Alex Conaway (right) will intern To be eligible, a student must be a full- Congressperson’s work. ernment affairs. It’s defi- in Washington, D.C., this summer. Pictured center is Arts & time UMKC junior or senior with a minimum “Congressmen are expected to be both an nitely going to help me Sciences Dean Karen Vorst. Photo courtesy of Dale Neuman 3.25 GPA and have completed a college-level advocate and an agent,” Neuman said. “They out with grad school at American Government course. have to balance being an ambassador and a UMKC. There are a lot December 2010), Neuman said both were To be placed, students must apply for the policymaker. The interns will begin to see how of things going on right now in Washington.” “extremely well-qualified.” Truman Bootstrap Award, which Truman the Congressman deals with these things.” Conaway, a political science major, “Both applications came in two days before Center Director Dale Neuman said is Neuman said previous interns have been expressed similar feelings. the deadline,” Neuman said, “and both came in reviewed by a panel of six judges. responsible for writing letters to constituents, “I’m really excited,” he said. “I’m interested complete. In the past, we’ve had applications This year’s recipients are David Jordan, Jr. giving tours of the Capitol Building and in the political aspect of going to grad come in piecemeal and applications that were and Alex Conaway, both seniors, who will answering calls coming into the office school for either public administration or incomplete. This is a benchmark of the kind of intern for U.S. Reps. Emanuel Cleaver III and where they work, among other projects and public policy. It will be interesting to see the person that you’re getting.” Lacy Clay, respectively. assignments. formation or legislation and the daily activities For more information on the Bootstrap Jordan and Conaway will leave for D.C. “It gives the intern a chance to see how the that are involved in a congressman’s office. The Award and Harry S. Truman Center for office operates,” Neuman said. “So far, we’ve in June, where they will room together experience of working with a congressperson Governmental Affairs, visit cas.umkc.edu/ only had one person disappointed in the in- in a residence hall at George Washington helps you gain valuable experience.” trumancenter/. ternship, and that’s because they expected to Although Jordan and Conaway were the University dedicated to summer interns. [email protected] Both interns are required to read the first participate in tough decisions and inside talk only students to apply for the Bootstrap and they weren’t. Most come back and say, Award (the deadline for summer 2011 was WEPT: Continued from Page 3 allowed to choose when to take the test. test seriously enough. Students have the UMKC. Those not enrolled at the school are Martin-Bowen verified that the majority of option to re-take the test if they fail. If they not allowed to take it. This does give a certain schools in Missouri have a WEPT equivalent fail the WEPT the second time as well, they level of integrity to students’ degrees. built into their required English courses, are required to take English 229, a class that Many of the students see the WEPT as a yet transfer students, even those who have teaches correct structure and grammar. hassle to fit into their schedules. The WEPT completed the required writing coursework UMKC offers support for students taking merely represents one more hurdle they have at said schools, are still required to take the WEPT. There are tutoring sessions open to leap to get their diplomas. the WEPT. However, according to Martin- for students at the writing center. UMKC Martin-Bowen thinks students can see Bowen, transfer students are among the lower even holds coaching seminars for the WEPT, the necessity of the test if they change their scoring students on the WEPT. usually in the spring semester. outlook on it. She said, “Perhaps students Many students take issue with the WEPT, Martin-Bowen said that rather than looking could view taking the exam as a ‘privilege,’ just arguing that standardized tests do not show at the WEPT as a burden, students should as attending college is a privilege.” many students’ full capacities. However, see it as an honor. “Along that vein, more While the debate over the WEPT Martin-Bowen argued, “[The WEPT is NOT than anything, student perception of the continues, it is still mandatory at UMKC. a standardized exam testing information WEPT should change. This test gives them Martin-Bowen sums up the current status only. Instead, it tests how students apply credibility. Occasionally, persons from the of the WEPT saying, “Today, students must information; it tests knowledge, which is far ‘outside’ world have contacted me and begged either pass the exam or fulfill the requirement different than memorizing facts.” me to allow them to take the WEPT to show by receiving at least a C in English 229 to Sometimes even students who excel in their proficiency in English to employers and receive a bachelor degree.” writing fail the test. Martin-Bowen claimed so forth.” [email protected] Student practices for the WEPT. this happens when students do not take the The WEPT is only offered to students at Photoy b Nathan Zoschke June 1, 2011 News|7 The transition from high school to college What incoming freshmen can do to prepare themselves for college

Melissa Oribhabor Managing Editor challenging [than high school],” said Nancy meet and all professors have office hours. given approval.” Wilkinson, Director of Student Services at Additionally, study habits are a bit different College is not only a time to absorb what ach semester, UMKC welcomes the Bloch School. “Students often find that in college. Wilkinson suggests students is being taught in the classroom, but it is also thousands of new freshmen embarking maybe all they had to do in high school was should study two to three hours per week per a time to develop interpersonal skills and on the exciting, and often terrifying, go to class and pay attention and that served credit hour they’re enrolled in. That means, learn how to get along with different types experienceE of going to college for the first them well. [However], when they get here for a student taking 15 credit hours, they of people. This is when many people who time. This can be scary and overwhelming in college, and they actually have to do more should study 30 to 45 hours a week. That is a were introverted in high school come out to many. The transition from high school to work independently outside of class to be full-time job. of their shells. No matter how nervous new college is often not an easy road, but there are prepared to come in and discuss and then do But coming to college is not just a change students can feel, it’s important to remember steps new students can take to make the shift homework. They’re sometimes really caught for students; parents also have to make most incoming freshmen feel the same way. easier. off guard by that.” adjustments when they have a child in college. Luckily, this campus has many opportunities One of the first things a student can do Wilkinson said more responsibility falls “One of the challenges that we have is that for students who are looking for a place to is attend an orientation program. These are on the student in college. If a student needs the rules are different between high school belong. held for transfer and freshman students a few help with a class, he or she needs to take the and college and sometimes parents don’t “I would just encourage students to times throughout the summer and will help initiative to make an appointment with an understand that they can’t call us up and enjoy the time here and meet new people,” them get familiar with the campus and start adviser or a professor. ask questions about their son or daughter’s Wilkinson said. “Don’t be afraid to go up and the process of getting comfortable with their This is especially true when it comes to situation unless the son or daughter has signed introduce yourself. [Students should] get programs. large lecture hall classes. With 200 other the release,” Wilkinson said. “We can usually involved in a student organization, that’s a But once classes start, it is important students in the class, a teacher won’t know all only provide the most general information great way to get to meet other people and to students understand they are not in not high the students as well as a high school teacher or to a parent and parents are often frustrated help feel more part of the campus.” school anymore. a teacher with only 15 or 20 students in a class by that and it’s not because we don’t want [email protected] “[College is] actually is a little more might. Students should not be afraid to ask for to help, it’s because we legally can’t provide help; professors are willing to set up a time to detailed information unless the student has Advertisement 8|News Vol. 78, Issue 31 Storms shatter Missouri Joplin, Sedalia damanged by apocalyptic F-5 tornadoes

tornado in Joplin several days before, citizens took shelter after the tornado warnings and were alert. monitored the weather on their mobile phone Lindsay Adams News Editor drilled through the town, its width half a mile According to The Kansas City Star, there and computers. to ¾ of a mile long, estimated to be a F5-level are currently estimated to be about 15 to 25 “It is critically important that we take n May 22, Joplin was hit by what was storm. dead, and the authorities are fairly certain that responsibility for our students’ safety,” Vorst the deadliest single tornado in the Volunteers have flocked to Joplin and after an initial scouring through the wreckage, wrote. “When sirens are blaring, we need country in 60 years. donations have been flowing into the mostly they have found all their dead. There is much to take them seriously. All classes not only OCurrently the injured of Joplin number 900 destroyed town. While Joplin has started devastation to the town itself. The tornado need to be dismissed, but the students need and there are 126 known deaths, according to to clear and rebuild, there is much left to be ripped a quarter to a half-mile-wide path to know where to go for their safety. The Fox News. done. through the town. It is estimated that the basement level is the best choice. If that is There are many dead, but there are still Tornados and severe weather have been tornado was an F2-level storm. not an option, the lowest level in an interior more people unaccounted for. While some of sweeping through Missouri as well as many of After the tornados in Kansas City on May hallway away from windows would work. All those that are among the list of the missing are the southern states. 25, Dean of Arts & Sciences Karen Vorst sent instructors and staff need to know the best known to be dead, authorities have still not On May 25, several tornados were reported a letter to the faculty and staff of the School safety options and exercise these options in been able to identify them. Rescuers are still in the Kansas City area. They caused minimal of Arts & Sciences. She wrote, “We all should a timely fashion. Please, let’s do this for the scouring through the rubble and destruction damage, but touched down numerous times. know that when the sirens go off, we need to safety of everyone.” looking for survivors. The same day, after the tornados passed take action for our own safety and that of our [email protected] Destroyed buildings number in the through Kansas City, they hit Sedalia at about students, staff and colleagues.” thousands, according to The New York Times. 12:30 p.m. At UMKC, students, faculty and staff There are many more that are severely Sedalia citizens had about 30 minutes’ damaged. The tornado left a path in its wake warning and were able to keep deaths low. nearly six miles long. The Kansas City Star Thanks to the deadly stated survivors had to endure wind speeds that were recorded at about 200 mph. The tornado

Top left: oDamage t a house in Joplin, Mo., includes missing shingles and a fallen wall. Above: Letters missing from a sign outside Joplin HIgh School are only the tip of the iceberg. Top right: A semi-truck turned sidways as a result of the Joplin tornado destruction. Photos courtesy of Rhonda Asher June 1, 2011 Arts & Entertainment|9 MRM Up-and-coming bilingual electro- pop band takes Kansas City by surprise

In November of 2009, I said to myself f that i I was ever going to do anything musically that was the o time t do it. “-Lead singer Raul Ayala Group members Monica Alvidrez, Raul Ayala and Manny Macias performing at Fiesta Kansas City on May 16. Photoy b Nathan Zoschke

Mark Linville Editor-in-Chief Kansas City where they performed on May 14 biology. Ayala and Macias focus on the “business” and 16. Shifting from biology to music is quite a side of MRM. ”MRM performed on both the Fiesta and change. “We both do the manager positions and The members of local pop group MRM are living their passion that transcends the Heartland stages at the event. So how did MRM come about? can sometimes get stressful,” Macias said. monotony of the everyday jobs and the typical On their first night, MRM was asked to do “In November of 2009, I said to myself that “We have learned so much about the music college experience. an encore performance immediately following if I was ever going to do anything musically business and I think we have done a great The name MRM is derived from the first their main performance. that was the time to do it,” Ayala said. “It job considering that neither of us has been names of its members. According to Macias, being a member was then that I decided to call two of my involved in this industry before.” For Monica Alvidrez, Raul Ayala, and of MRM has changed the lives of all three best friends to prepare a concept which later With a following of family, friends, and Manny Macias, music is their passion. members. evolved into what today is MRM.” supporters all over the city, MRM’s popularity Since 2010, the trio has been performing all “The three of us had different plans when it The members feel that being a part of the has significantly grown since their begging last over Kansas City and at the Hispanic Festival came to life,” Macias said. “We have become group is very important to their lives. They year. in St. Louis, hitting the stage with high energy very dedicated to the band that all we eat, take every aspect of the group seriously. “We are very pleased with the success with Ayala as the lead singer, and Alvidrez and breath and dream about is MRM.” “Music has always been an influence in my MRM has right now,” Macias said “We have Macias as back-up dancers and singers. It can be quite a change going from a college life, I never thought that I would become a been together for a year and a few months now MRM, an electronic pop group based in student to a local music star. musician myself but now that I look back I can and have already performed outside of Kansas KC, sings predominantly in Spanish. Each member of MRM all had other plans see that I always had an inclination towards it,” City, have been on local television, have songs “MRM’s songs are pop combined with before starting MRM a year ago. Ayala said. playing on the radio here in KC and in St Electronic music,” Macias said. “The new Monica has a dream of becoming a make- When it comes to music, lyrics, singing, Louis and have performed a mini concert at electro-pop concept is booming now and up artist. She is currently working to finish her and dancing, each member dedicates their all the Kansas City Royals Stadium. We hope we are glad to be part of this movement, college course and become further successful to make MRM amazing. that the MRM concept keeps proliferating so especially in the Hispanic market.” with MRM. “In the band we have different roles,” we can reach as many people as we can.” MRM has found the electro-pop genre Aside from making MRM very successful, Alvidrez said. “Like me, I’m the one who To hear some of MRM’s music, head on suiting for their writing and choreography. Raul career goal is to become an architect, focuses on the style and dancing the most.” over to the MRM Official Facebook Fan Page Their fans tend to like it as well. designing for a well-known architectural firm. In addition to the performance side or find them on YouTube atwww.youtube.com/ The group was a favorite at this year’s Fiesta In 2009, Macias graduated from Rockhurst of MRM, the members also take care of user/MRMofficial. University with a bachelor of science in management side. [email protected] 10|Arts & Entertainment Vol. 78, Issue 31

Far left: Tents setpn u i the Crown Center courtyard along Grand Boulevard for FiestaC. K Left: Dolls, crosses and decorated skulls t sold a a t tent a Fiesta KC embody the traditional Hispanic culture. Below, left: The Fiesta Pavilion Stage outside Hall’s Department store. The Pavilion stages wa the largerf o the two, and featured both contests and live performances. Photosy b Nathan Fiesta KC Zoschke Kansas City celebrates its vibrant Latino culture Nathan Zoschke Hobbs. performers like Making Movies and MRM. warmly welcomed by everyone I met. Production Manager/Copy Editor A smaller stage, the Heartland Stage, was set The dozen-or-so food vendors sold The crowd was diverse age-wise, and there up along Grand Boulevard, which was closed homemade horchata (a traditional drink were as many children and teens as there were n May 14-16, thousands flocked to to traffic during the event. The Heartland made from milk, ground rice, sugar, cinnamon adults. A mechanical bull was popular among Crown Center for Fiesta Kansas City, Stage featured several up-and-coming local and vanilla), fresh-squeezed limeade, tortas children. Other activities targeting children an annual Latino festival sponsored bands, like Making Movies and MRM. (sandwiches), burritos, tacos, churros included face painting, crafts, carnival games Oby the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Although I missed Making Movies’ (twisted, dough-baked cinnamon sticks), and prizes. The courtyard facing the Crown Center performance, I have seen the group perform helado (ice cream) and more indulgent, spicy, For those 21 and up, $5 tickets were sold Shops along Grand Boulevard was brimming before, and was instantly impressed by their mouthwatering plates than I have fingers to to Margarita Cove, which offered six different with live music, street vendors, food and bold, immense talent, catchy reggae rhythms, rock count. flavors of margaritas. Unfortunately, I was too vibrant colors. ‘n’ roll flare and seamless transition between Also noteworthy were the presence of young to indulge myself. The three-day event marks the 12th annual English and Spanish lyrics. corporate sponsors and advertisers, which My only regret is that I missed the first fiesta held by the Hispanic Chamber of The event was a vibrant blend of two cul- included Hallmark cards, a car dealership, two days of Fiesta KC. I showed up at Crown Commerce. tures: traditional Latin American culture and insurance agents and cell phone companies. Center at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday not knowing Two stages featured live music, dancing Hispanic-American culture, which contains A bellwether of the growing market share what to expect, and ended up staying the rest and even tortilla rolling and gritos (shouting) elements of both U.S. and Latin American of Latino buyers, I was glad to see sponsors of the day. contests. cultures. outside of the Latino community have not Ticket prices were reasonable. A one-day The Fiesta Pavilion Stage, located outside This was evident in both the clothing ignored Fiesta KC. pass was $5, and a three-day pass was sold Hall’s Department Store, was the larger of items sold and the music selections chosen to The event was predominately attended by for $10. Those who arrived before 4 p.m. the two and opened Friday evening with the perform. Latinos, although there were people of all Saturday and Sunday got in for free, although national anthem and color guard, followed Mariachi bands and colorful traditional cultures and ethnicities represented. I will happily pay $10 for a weekend pass next by a mariachi band and Tejano singer Gary clothing and blankets gave way to “Hecho Even though Spanish was predominantly year. Fiesta KC is well worth the money. en México” baseball caps and bilingual spoken, I had no difficulty fitting in and was [email protected]

Summer The Beaumont Club The Kansas Speedway Sprint Center www.beaumontkc.com www.kanrocksas.com www.sprintcenter.com June- 3 The Paperclips with the Strive, 49 Kanrocksas, Aug 5, 6- Eminem, MUSE June . 18- R Kelly & Keyshia Cole Stones, and more. (18+) with Kid Cudi, The Black Keys, D12, Show starts at 8 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m. Flogging Molly, and many more. (All ages) June 21- Motley Crue, Poison with the concerts June- 7 Ratatat (All ages) A new two-day music festival located at the New York Dolls Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m. Kansas Speedway. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. June 12- Panic! At the Disco (All ages) July 16- New Kids on the Block with in Kansas City Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 6:30 p.m. Backstreet Boys June 17- Belle Muerte with Gangstas with Show starts at 8 p.m. Capguns and more The Uptown Theater July 26- Sade & John Legend Editor-in-Chief www.uptowntheater.com Mark Linville Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7:30 June 22- Lyle Lovett and John Hiatt (All Show starts at 7:30 p.m. p.m. ages) Aug.- 7 Sugarland here you’re looking for hip hop, July- 1 Ray J with Jackie Michaels (21+) “An Acoustic evening with Lyle Lovett Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 9 p.m., show starts at 10 p.m. and John Hiatt” Aug. 17- Katy Perry pop, metal or good old fashioned July 18- Reel Big Fish with Streetlight Show starts at 7:30 p.m. rock ‘n’ roll, there is a concert for Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Manifesto and more (All ages) July 11- Owl City (All ages) Aug. 19- Keith Urban Wyou to attend this summer. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 7p.m. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Here is a compilation of concerts from Aug. 23- Lil Wayne four of Kansas City’s most exciting venues. Showtime TBA. [email protected] June 1, 2011 Arts & Entertainment|11

All Around Town Summer recreation + Kansas City’s best ice cream Nathan Zoschke Biking/Hiking/Jogging Production Manager/Copy Editor ansas City offers several great trails. For starters, the 6.5 mile-long Trolley f moderation is a virtue, Kansas City TrackK Trail along Brookside Boulevard and weather is no more virtuous than it is Wornall Road stretches from the UMKC predictable. It is cursed with extremes: campus to south Kansas City, and is highly Siberian winter snow and humid, popular with joggers and bikers. Itropical summer heat, separated only by a For a more scenic, secluded route, check brief spring and fall. out Cliff Drive in the Historic Northeast Despite the misery of muggy 90 degree when it is closed to automobile traffic Friday- weather, mosquito bites, scorching car Sunday. Park your car outside the Kansas City interiors and cringe-worthy, skin-tight Museum, at 3218 Gladstone Blvd., and head Speedos, summer can be one of the most down to Cliff Drive for a nice walk or bike ride enjoyable seasons in Kansas City. along the 4-mile long scenic by-way flanked Whether it’s a night on the Country Club by trees and beautiful limestone bluffs. Be Plaza, a day at Oceans of Fun, a late afternoon sure to check out the Carl DiCapo Fountain, stroll through the sculpture gardens at the a waterfall fountain fed by a natural stream, Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, a bike ride located near the eastern Cliff Drive entrance at The Jones Ultra-Pool in the Kansas City Power & Light District. Photo courtesy of Facebook through Loose Park or an ice cream binge, Gladstone Boulevard and Elmwood Avenue. there is no shortage of fun things to do in Loose Park, within walking distance of Kansas City during the summer. out Glacé, at 4960 Main St., which campus at 5100 Wornall Road, offers another offers inspired, sensational flavors Here are some suggestions on what to do fun, scenic walking/biking path. Loose Park, whenever/if you get bored: of artisan ice cream like Fleur de one of KC’s premier urban parks, boasts a Sell Caramel, French Lavender and rose garden, Civil War canon (located along Venezuelan Spice Chocolate. A 55th Street), large pond, tennis courts and serving of two scoops is $4, but the expansive manicured lawn, perfect for an ice cream is worth every dime. afternoon picnic. For those who enjoy mountain biking along Water Parks/Pools a rustic, dirt path, check out the Swope Park ho said you had to be a kid Trails, at the southern intersection of Oldham Wto enjoy plunging high-speed Road and Oakwood Drive in Swope Park. The into a pool on the Monsoon at 7-mile trail presents a challenge with rugged Oceans of Fun? terrain and exposed rock, but is a treat for Kansas City offers several water biking aficionados. parks, and Oceans of Fun is hands down the largest and most popular, Ice Cream offering attractions for all ages. here’s no better way to end a hot summer Prices range from $18 for adult Tday than with a delicious, calorie-laden tickets after 3 p.m., to $57 for an all- ice cream cone at Murray’s in Westport. day Ride & Slide pass that allows Located along Pennsylvania Avenue, Murray’s access to both Oceans of Fun and has been a Kansas City icon for years, and neighboring Worlds of Fun, both offers delicious, creamy ice cream and located at 4545 Worlds of Fun Ave. cookies. Murray’s tends to be more expensive, off of I-435 in the Northland. although it is well worth it. Schlitterbahn Water Park, at 9400 Paleteria Tropicana, at 830 Southwest State Ave. in Kansas City, Kan., Blvd., offers unique ice cream flavors and which opened in the past couple other mouthwatering treats, like smoothies, of years, offers many of the same popsicles and churros. The “Pistacho” ice attractions as Oceans of Fun, with The Trolley Track Trail in Brookside is perfect for cream, made with real pistachios, is my several new ones slated to open this biking, jogging and walking on a nice summer day. personal favorite. The ice cream is reasonably summer. Tickets at Schlitterbahn Photo courtesy of Google Images priced too. are a bit pricier than Oceans of Fun, Miami Ice, at 1624 W 39th St., offers shaved starting at $25 for admission after 3 p.m. square foot pool with cabanas, a 150-foot long ice, custards, hot dogs and other goodies. A For those looking for a leisurely, adult- swim-up bar and other high-end amenities Glacé, at 4960 Main St., is a close walk from great place to stop by on a warm summer day, one would only expect to find on the coasts. the Volker campus. Flavors vary week- oriented alternative, the Jones ultra-pool, a Miami Ice is reasonably priced and is located rooftop pool atth 13 and Main streets in the For more information, visit www.thejoneskc. to-week and include a variety of caramel, in the hopping W. 39th Street neighborhood. com. chocolate and sherbet options. Power & Light District, offers just that. For Photoy b Nathan Zoschke However, no place, in my opinion, can beat those 21 and up, the Jones includes a 20,000 [email protected] 12|Arts & Entertainment Vol. 78, Issue 31 summer Rating: C Doug Stanhope “Oslo - Burning the BridgeCD to Nowhere” reviews Johanna Poppel Photo Editor Most of his stand-up is derived from his fun of political regulations in which he claims travels. His humor is mean, brutally honest, a woman’s uterus is a much greater pollutant oug Stanhope has been a stand-up and he doesn’t hold back. than anything else. comedian since 1990. Stanhope opens with humor about foreign Having a child is the worst thing you could He has appeared on “The Howard mishaps in Norway, where his recording takes do for the environment according to the SternD Show” and “Comedy Central Presents” place. comedian. and has performed at many major comedy He is very opinionated, vulgar and his act If racist and sexist jokes easily offend you, festivals. is all about social criticism in which he makes then stay away from Stanhope. He started his career in Las Vegas doing fun of subjects ranging from politicians to On the other hand if you find pride in being crude jokes for free drinks, and today, not tourists. an American, and appreciate people making much has changed. The substance he uses for His crudeness sometimes outweighs fun of other cultures, then go for it. jokes at the beginning of his “Oslo - Burning his laughs. Stanhope never hesitates to use Nonetheless, he was honest and did give the Bridge to Nowhere” comedic album curse words and crude and graphic language me a few chuckles. ranges from jabs at former President George regarding sex, culture and race. [email protected] Photo courtesy of Google Images W. Bush to Norway’s royal family. His humor demeans women and makes

The Sounds “Something to Die For” Rating: A Johanna Poppel Photo Editor I felt that the music sounded very similar lyrics such as, “You gotta trust me and hold to their previous releases and it was neat on, we gotta slow down baby, cause we’re still he Sounds is an electronic Swedish hearing a familiar, yet fresh, sound from a young, but we are getting older, our hearts band that got together in 1999 in solid band. are still warm, but they are getting colder,” Stockholm. ”Something To Die For” opens with the in the song “The Best of Me.” The last song, TKnown for synthesizer-heavy sounds track, “It’s So Easy,” an upbeat techno dance “Wish You Were Here” ends the album with and ‘80s rock-inspired tunes, their music beat, harking back to the popular ‘70s band a soft acoustic ballad, showing that The inspiration is reminiscent of Blondie with “Styx.” Sounds can incorporate a smorgasbord of its poppy sounds and female-driven vocals. The album’s second song, “Dance with musical talent. I have been listening to The Sounds for the Devil,” is a rock song with a driven chant The distinct sound of The Sounds kept quite some time and have always found throughout. Songs of rebellion and love me yearning for more. I recommend this their songs fun and powerful with a good hardships linger throughout the album, but CD to anyone who loves good electronic beat to dance to. “Something to Die for” is the most popular. dance music and is looking to discover a fun, I find their past hits a lot better than the The vocals range from tough, rebellious foreign alternative band. Photo courtesy of Google Images current “Something To Die For” CD. chanting to sweet and slow ballads. With [email protected]

The Belle Brigade: “The Belle Brigade” Rating: B Johanna Poppel Photo Editor “Losers,” is a soft rock song that softness and sadness: “I gave everything resonates a positive and motivating I had to my lover, it’s no wonder people he Belle Brigade is an alternative message. felt that I disappeared, and at the end of Los Angeles band consisting of “Where Not To Look For Freedom” the day all I had for myself, were my own brother and sister songwriting picks up the pace with a faster-moving lonesome tears.” duoT Ethan and Barbara Gruska. beat with outbursts of loud, passionate The Belle Brigade’s three remaining The Belle Brigade’s self-titled debut vocals. tracks echo sounds from earlier in the album kicks off with “Sweet Louise,” an “Belt of Orion” has a country/folk- album, and then, “Fasten You to Me” is indie acoustic song with country flair. influenced introduction that mellows a delicate slow song featuring Barbara’s “Sweet Louise” is sweet, upbeat and out into easier listening. vocals. soulful with lyrics like, “I just fell in love The song “Shirt” offers a break in I would recommend The Belle and I couldn’t help myself.” the album, including a soft acoustic Brigade to anyone who enjoys rock, The opening track makes you want to introduction that progresses into faster country and acoustic music or is open clap your hands and hold your head up and stronger lyrics. to listening to something diverse and high. Later on in the album, “Lonely upbeat. Photo courtesy of Google Images The album’s most popular song, Lonely” contains lyrics with a sense of [email protected] June 1, 2011 Arts & Entertainment|13 A closer look at Monet’s ‘Water Lilies’ Lydia Strong Staff Writer column belongs to the Nelson-Atkins. Since their split, the three oil canvasses hree museums joined forces to have reunited only three times. give visitors a unique look at the “The first time, in 1978, at the Metropolitan infamous “Water Lilies” of the French Museum in New York,” Myers said. “And the ImpressionistT Claude Monet. second time, in 1979 and 1980 … when they The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art were shown in Kansas City and in St. Louis.” collaborated with the Saint Louis Art This time around, the Nelson-Atkins hopes An f X-ray o a panel from to shed new light on the painting and on Monet’s ‘Water Lillies’ painting. Museum and the Cleveland Museum of Art Photoy b Lydia Strong to reunite the three panels (the triptych) of Monet himself. Monet’s “Water Lilies.” “The water-flowers themselves are far from “This will be a much more intimate being the whole scene,” Monet said in 1918, experience of his work than what you normally according to a museum press release. “Really, get in museums,” a Nelson-Atkins’spress they are just the accompaniment. The essence release said. of the motif is the mirror of water, whose appearance alters at every moment.” The triptych is 42 feet wide, while each beneath a cluster of water lilies. century French painting. panel measures approximately 7 by 14 feet. The quest to capture such alterations is the signature of Monet’s later work. Through X-ray imaging of a section of the “[Myers] relocated from Paris to take this Monet painted the panels from 1915 until his left column, “conservators found the image of position, and she brings a lot of her personal death in 1926. “In his early work, Monet was a spontaneous painter who painted outside,” an agapanthus plant that Monet suppressed passion to this field,” said Nelson-Atkins “They were actually never shown together halfway through painting it,” the museum’s director/CEO Julián Zugazagoitia. during his lifetime,” Nicole Myers, the Myers said. “With his later paintings, you see this almost obsessive-compulsive artist, press release said. The exhibit will be at the Nelson-Atkins exhibit’s coordinator, said. “This is really an amazing technological through Aug. 7, after which it will be on display The triptych remained in Monet’s studio who worked tirelessly making revisions again, again and again.” advance in terms of putting the spotlight at the Cleveland Museum of Art, before after Monet’s death until its rediscovery in the on the research and the work that we have showing at the Saint Louis Art Museum in the mid ‘50s. In 1956, it made its way to the U.S. With the help of X-ray, the installation presents detailed images of some of these done,” Myers said. “[We are doing it in a really fall of 2011. “At that time, the triptych was split up into modern way that is hopefully appealing and Tickets are $8, but $5-off coupons are three different panels and sold individually revisions. “This is art and science coming together,” also engaging for visitors of all ages.” available online. to the museums that still own [the panels] Myers is the new Associate Curator of [email protected] today,” Myers said. Associate Conservator Mary Schafer said. “It is very exciting.” European Painting and Sculpture at the The left and center columns come from the Nelson-Atkins. She is working on her Ph.D. Cleveland Museum of Art and the Saint Louis For example, the exhibit displays an X-ray, which reveals an agapanthus plant painted at the Institute of Fine Arts at New York Art Museum respectively. The right-hand University. Her area of expertise is 19th restaurant review

ElSouthwest Boulevard Patron Mexican restaurant boasts flavor, ambiance and friendly staff Patricia Barra Forum Editor while overlooking Southwest Boulevard the dish was good, but it lacked a on El Patron’s patio. few components like extra steak, l Patron is a Mexican restaurant El Patron had a great ambiance and guacamole and sour cream. There was on Southwest Boulevard. El service, but certain things failed to meet an overabundance of lettuce that made Patron looked like the perfect my expectations. The salsa for the chips up for what the taco salad lacked. By placeE for a Friday night to get a round was bland and needed salt or something the time you reached the bottom of the of drinks with friends and enjoy an else to add more of a punch. The chips shell you were tired of eating through so appetizer. Upon arrival, I was seated tasted fresh and I preferred to eat them much lettuce. rapidly. by themselves. They were so delicious On the plus side, the staff was very The steak taco salad featured on El Patron’s menu. The menu had a large selection of they made me wish I had ordered a chip- nice and the check arrived quickly. Photoy b Patricia Barra vegetarian, seafood and traditional based dish. Prices were reasonable. I paid $10.98 Mexican dishes. The variety ranged For the main course I selected El for my meal without a drink. The menu from raw oysters to taco salads. For the Patron’s steak taco salad. It arrived prices looked typical for most Mexican 21 and up crowd, El Patron offers a full quickly, which showed their excellent restaurants I have visited in the area. bar and margarita special for $6.95. service. The shell of the taco salad Overall, El Patron was good, and I The atmosphere was very modern was great and I could have eaten it by would like to go back and give it another with minimalist décor. Diners can enjoy itself. The steak was cooked well and shot with a different dish. margaritas with their Mexican food the guacamole was delicious. Overall, [email protected] 14|Feature Vol. 78, Issue 31 Student SIFE Organization Profile: Students succeed in free enterprise A look at last year’s highlights and next year’s plans to bring success to a whole new level

Mark Linville Editor-in-Chief “My heart beats loud for many reasons [one In March, UMKC SIFE took first place in the It can be said that SIFE has far exceeded the being,] only six years ago, the SIFE team had one regional SIFE competition in Chicago. expectations of a student organization. hat other student organization can person. We now have 70,” UMKC SIFE president They returned home and set their sights on “UMKC SIFE is proud to represent UMKC and boast a nationally-televised presentation Beth Larson said. “Every year, our projects get winning the national completion in May, where they, hopes to bring even more positive visibility in the to China’s college elites and regional stronger and we become more innovative.” unfortunately, did not advance. future to the University of Missouri-Kansas City,” Wchampionship titles three years in a row? Each year, UMKC SIFE initiates several on- UMKC SIFE has many supporters in the Clark said. None other than UMKC’s Students in Free campus and community projects that focus on community, including many business and political Larson said SIFE’s biggest achievement this year Enterprise (SIFE) team. improving the economic, social and environmental figures. was building a more diverse team. With more than 35 years of history, SIFE issues that affect people. On April, 19, SIFE celebrated the end of the “In the past we have typically had only Bloch founded as a non-profit organization in 1975 at This past year, UMKC SIFE led several projects year with speeches from several important figures, Students, with a few others sprinkled in here and Drury University in Springfield, Mo. successfully: China business success skills including Chancellor Leo Morton, deans from the there, that’s great because we all have a foundation SIFE is an international organization having a training workshops, Real World U altnerative Henry W. Bloch School of Management and School in the entrepreneurship and business skills that SIFE total of 39 operating countries including the U.S., schools seminars, improvements to the Lykin’s of Engineering and representatives for U.S. Rep. uses to change the world,” Larson said. China, Mexico, Malaysia, Japan, Germany, Nigeria neighborhood in Kansas City’s Historic Northeast, Emanuel Cleaver II and newly-elected Mayor Sly However, Larson does not feel SIFE met and others. the U-News SIFE Financial Corner and campus-wide James, who were unable to attend. all expectations this past year. But in light of The organization can be found on university recycling efforts. Many people wished the group well in its success shortcomings, Larson said the team learned from it. campuses worldwide, with more than 1,500 One ongoing project, the China business success and congratulated members on a job well done. “The UMKC SIFE team did not meet all operating teams. skills, brings SIFE team members to China to teach President and CEO of the Mazuma Credit Union expectations last year,” Larson said. “We didn’t win The success of the umbrella organization shows in business and trade skills to students and strengthen Robert Givens said that UMKC SIFE is fantastic and Nationals, but we learned a lot from other teams that its numbers. The number of active students: 48,000 the international language of business. brings honor to the entire university. we watched compete and we will have 19 returning plus more than 8,700 community projects, more “The U.S. and China are two of the most powerful “The Kansas City and UMKC communities have members that went to competition that have a full than 4,900,000 community service hours logged, economies in the world,” Larson said in the benefited greatly from the SIFE projects and that is understanding of SIFE.” and a worldwide revenue of over $12,800,000. winning SIFE presentation at the Chicago regional the true test of the value that each member brings to Larson has many goals and expectations for the The purpose of SIFE is to work with community competition in March. “To share, we must act in the organization,” Givens said. upcoming year. leaders in business and higher education to mobilize partnership and recognize that we depend on each Also showing his support was Bloch School Dean “My expectations for the UMKC SIFE team for college and university students of any field of study other. This interdependency can be our greatest Teng-Kee Tan. the next year are the following: to be a team of 100 and teach them the skill to become leaders of strength.” “We are proud of [SIFE UMKC] all the way,” He members strong, recruit at least 30 new members,” tomorrow. The project focuses on the cultural gap between said. Larson said. The UMKC chapter of SIFE has grown more with the U.S. and China. In an email with the U-News, Clark stated he was Other goals for Larson include winning Nationals every year in operation since its inception in the early Over the past two years, SIFE has traveled to proud of each member of UMKC SIFE and was and making a positive impact in the community 2000s. schools in Beijing, Nanjing and Shanghai to teach amazed at how much the group has grown in so little through projects that fit SIFE’s mission. UMKC SIFE currently has 70 members, and students with plans to attend college in the U.S. time. If you are interested in learning more about According to SIFE UMKC Advisor and Sam Walton cultural success skills pertaining to classroom Clark said the end of the celebration was pivotal SIFE, contact Larson [email protected] or Fellow Cary Clark, the UMKC Chapter is among participation and interactions with professors. and represented the support and success of the team. Recruitment Director Jody Pope at jrpy78@mail. the top 10 percent of all schools in the U.S. along SIFE members also taught U.S. history, expressed “The event was huge,” Clark said. He was very umkc.edu . with schools like Notre Dame, University of Indiana- the diversity of the two cultures, and gave suggestions grateful to have Morton, Tan and Coputing and [email protected] Bloomington and the University of Wisconsin- to the Chinese students on how to become involved Engineering Dean Kevin Truman, who all gave Madison. as students. speeches at the end of year ceremony. June 1, 2011 Feature|15

Above: Back row, left to right: The SIFE Travel and Presentation teams that competed at the regional and national competitions. Jake Ortner, Preston Coughlin, Jason Arnold, Brandon Arnold, Makenzy Jean, Alvin Tan, Thomas Ahart, Kingsley Kantanka. Middle row, left to right: Muhammad Haider, Troy Martin, Brittany Murphy, Camille Kimbrough, Kasim Hardaway, Andres Rivera. Bottom row, left to right: Jack Tan, Beth Larson, Jody Pope, Kaity Claren, Darshana Benhur, Kendra Konrady, Phillip Bolin, Cary Clark. Photo courtesy of SIFE

Left: Chancellor Leo Morton accepts the trophy from SIFE’s regional competition at SIFE’s end-of-year ceremony on April 19. Morton was only scheduled to attend the event for several minutes and give a speech, but ended up staying the entire time. Photoy b Nathan Zoschke It can be said that SIFE has far exceeded the expectations of a student organization. “UMKC SIFE is proud to represent UMKC and hopes to bring even more positive visibility in the future to the University of Missouri-Kansas City,” Clark said. Larson said SIFE’s biggest achievement this year was building a more diverse team. “In the past we have typically had only Bloch Students, with a few others sprinkled in here and there, that’s great because we all have a foundation in the entrepreneurship and business skills that SIFE uses to change the world,” Larson said. However, Larson does not feel SIFE met all expectations this past year. But in light of shortcomings, Larson said the team learned from it. “The UMKC SIFE team did not meet all expectations last year,” Larson said. “We didn’t win Nationals, but we learned a lot from other teams that we watched compete and we will have 19 returning members that went to competition that have a full understanding of SIFE.” Larson has many goals and expectations for the upcoming year. “My expectations for the UMKC SIFE team for the next year are the following: to be a team of 100 members strong, recruit at least 30 new members,” Larson said. Other goals for Larson include winning Nationals and making a positive impact in the community through projects that fit SIFE’s mission. If you are interested in learning more about SIFE, contact Larson [email protected] or Recruitment Director Jody Pope at jrpy78@mail. umkc.edu . [email protected] UMKC adviser Cary Clark speaks at the end-of-year ceremony on April 19. Clark praised the team’s achievements, speaking to a large audience that inluded deans, Chancellor Leo Morton and CEOs from several of Kansas City’s largest businesses. Photoy b Nathan Zoschke 16|Arts & Entertainment Vol. 78, Issue 31 Roxy Paine branches out in KC Symbolic tree sculpture joins Nelson-Atkins sculpture garden

Lydia Strong Staff Writer “(Paine) is very interested in nature,” Schall said, “but of course he is very interested in As of April, the Kansas City Sculpture culture and technology and the way in which Park at the Nelson-Atkins Museum has a new those two interact and are intertwined. You permanent addition. The 56-foot-tall stainless cannot really separate culture from nature steel sculpture “Ferment” is the work of anymore. Our technology is always impacting internationally- acclaimed artist Roxy Paine. nature and nature is always impacting us.” At first sight, “Ferment” looks like a gigantic The installation of “Ferment” celebrates the silver shining tree, but Paine rejects the term work of Martin Friedman, who served 20 years tree for its exclusiveness. as the Hall Family Foundation consultant for “Actually ‘Dendroids’ is what I call them, the museum’s Sculpture Park. because to call them trees is selling them In 2009, the Hall Family Foundation short,” Paine said. decided to honor Friedman’s contribution by “Ferment” belongs to a series of Paine’s funding an art piece of his choice. sculptures collectively titled “Dendroids.” “He immediately chose Paine, whose work The term dendroid means tree-like in form he had long admired,” according to a Nelson- and branching structure. According to Paine, Atkins press release. this also includes references to the neural Paine believes that “Ferment” is a very network’s branching, or river systems. fitting honor to Friedman’s work. The name “Ferment” stems from the process “You know he’s devoted his life to bringing of fermentation, the conversion of sugar into ideas into the public eye,” Paine said. “I think alcohol by yeast or bacteria. However, Paine fermentation is a fitting metaphor for his life sees fermentation as a metaphor for mental as well.” processes. Paine aims to understand nature on a “I was trying to create this turning, swirling, deeper level. very dynamic force,” Paine said. “(It is) almost “It’s not my intention to make realism, but uncontrolled, but then it’s frozen in this it is my intention to take these ideas as far as I material that is extremely stable, extremely possibly can,” Paine said. hard.” “Paine has 24 dendroid sculptures in North Jan Schall, a Sanders Sosland Curator America and around the world, including of Modern and Contemporary Art at the Israel and Australia,” according to a Nelson- Nelson-Atkins, considers Paine one of the Atkins press release. most important young sculptors today. Several of Paine’s dendroid models are temporarily on display in the Bloch Building of the Nelson-Atkins. Along with the “Dendroids,” the Bloch Lobby also exhibits Paine’s sculpture-making machine, “Scumak.” “Paine developed the “Scumak” to remove the artist’s hand from the creative process, replacing it with a computer program that he designed,” according to the Nelson- Atkins press release. The machine “melts plastic polyethylene beads with pigment and periodically Above: ‘Ferment’ sculpture of a ‘Deondroid’ insalled in the Kansas City Sculpture Park at the extrudes them, creating unique, Nelson-Atkins bulbous-shaped sculptures.” Left: The ‘Scumak’ sculpture located in the lobby of the Bloch Building at the Nelson-Atkins. The “Scumak” should create close Photosy b Lydia Strong to 42 sculptures over a period of four months. All of the mechanically global digital marketing agency, and created a prompts them to branch out by passing the produced sculptures will be on living art project titled “Branch Out.” inspiration on to their friends via Facebook or display on pedestals in the Bloch “We want to take the inspiration and let Twitter. Lobby until Aug. 28, 2011. it branch out,” a Nelson-Atkins press release From there, friends can view the branch To promote creativity, the said. “The hope is to create an organic, open- and continue to branch out via a smart phone Museum Café in the Bloch Building ended, interactive experience.” or a computer. transformed into The Creative Café. In the “Branch Out” project, visitors come “If the pieces can instigate thought and Here, all visitors can use computer to the museum’s Sculpture Park and access reflection, that’s part of my goal,” Paine said. touch screens and turn their own http://nelson-atkins.org/branchout using “The joy is in seeing something [that’s] only inspiration into art. a Smartphone. The website automatically an idea to become physical reality.” In the same spirit, the Nelson- detects their location at the park. Then it [email protected] Atkins collaborated with VML, a June 1, 2011 Arts & Entertainment|17 summer Top fashion 10trends

Johanna Poppel Photo Editor Rompers- The romper suit was once wear them casually or pair them with any tops, capris, shorts, dresses and skirts. This 3.popular in the ‘50s for children’s playwear shirt, tank top or blouse. bright shade will match with anything in your School’s out, the summer heat is in. Stand and women’s beach ensembles because it is Tube top dresses- Skin tight dresses are closet and, of course, make your summer tan out in the crowd this summer with the latest ideal for movement and comfort. This top and 6.in this summer. These dresses will make look golden. fashion trends. Here are the summer fashion shorts combination is great for the lazy days your curves look grand. Use the tube top dress Cut-off shorts- I certainly could not trends that will keep you looking hot while it of summer. at the pool as a simple swim suit cover-up or 9.forget about men’s fashion. This unisex is hot outside: Maxi skirts- Maxi skirts and maxi accessorize with a belt and heels for a hot look trend always comes back for the summer and Bustiers- This lingerie-inspired top is 4.dresses are a modest trend springing into at night. is even easy to do yourself. Just cut some old 1.coming out for the summer. Pair it with women’s wardrobes everywhere. Wear it with Crop tops- The ‘80s are back with these winter jeans, khakis, or cords into the length a high-waisted skirt or shorts for a sweet, flat, strappy sandals for a bohemian look. This 7.shirts that show off some stomach. These of your liking. feminine look. At night, wear it with some long and flowing style will bring you elegance tops are even easy to make yourself. Just cut Printed tanks- This summer is going skinny jeans for a daring look. in a breeze. out the neckline and cut off the bottom of an 10.to be hot, so men, show off those Crochet dresses- Looking like your High-waisted shorts- Fashion really old shirt and voilà! You have a crop top; just shoulders. Tank tops with patterns, stripes or grandma crocheted it herself, this unique 5.does repeat itself. This trend originated make sure to find someone with a sewing color blocks are popping up in men’s clothing 2.trend will get you noticed. This feminine look in the ‘40s and ‘50s, and was seen in ‘80s and machine to hem the edges so they don’t fray departments everywhere. also comes in vests, shirts, skirts and shorts. ‘90s fashion before making a reappearance in the wash. [email protected] Match it with browns and light pinks for a this year. These shorts will keep you looking White- White is a very dominant color sweet ,earthy and natural look. slender in the heat. You can dress them up, 8.in summer fashion: you can find white

Student Taylor Silvestro modeling a white crochet dress (left photo), a bustier (center photo) and a crop top (right photo). Photosy b Johanna Poppel 18|Arts & Entertainment Vol. 78, Issue 31 Dance professor wins award Paula Weber honored as outstanding choreographer

Nicole English Contributing Writer were: Brian Enos, from Chicago, Heather choreographers discuss their concepts and guest artist with the Hartford Ballet. Weber’s Maloy, from Asheville, N.C., and Peter Pucci, ideas and to ask questions and participate in other more recent accomplishments include olly Lynch, artistic director of the from New York City. the discussion. choreographing Carmina Burana, Canzone National Choreographers Initiative The process for the NCI dance project The first NCI took place in 2004 with and Toccata E Due Conzoni for the Kansas (NCI), has announced that begins with a three-week rehearsal period the idea of promoting the creation and City Ballet, and she received the Muriel UMKC’sM Paula Weber was among the four that takes place in the dance studios at the production of professional dance. In the McBrien Kauffman Excellence in Teaching choreographers chosen from a nationwide University of California- Irvine, culminating years since its inception, the NCI has helped Award for 2000–2001. Weber also has been application process to participate in this year’s in a public performance. This summer, the 28 choreographers develop new works. part of the Wylliams/Henry Contemporary summer’s project. eighth annual National Choreographers Seventeen of the pieces begun at NCI have Dance Company since its creation in 1991. The National Choreographers Initiative Initiative will take place July 11-29. gone on to be premiered or developed further Weber has a BFA in Dance from Butler (NCI) is a southern California dance During the three weeks of intense and performed elsewhere in the U.S. and University and an MFA in Dance from Smith project with national influence. Each year, creative effort, choreographers and dancers abroad. College, and is currently an associate professor the NCI selects a handful of outstanding will produce four new dance works. Each Paula Weber began her early training as a of ballet, and Dance Division Director at the choreographers from across the nation to choreographer is given complete freedom dancer in Bridgman, Mich., and later went on UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance. participate in a summer project. to choose the style and theme of the work. to be a principal dancer with the Milwaukee [email protected] The other 2011 choreographers selected The NCI Discovery showing allows the Ballet, Albany Berkshire Ballet, Lyric Opera audience an opportunity to hear the four Ballet of Chicago with Maria Tallchief and as a Top nightlife spots in KC Mark Linville Editor-in-Chief bars for patrons to enjoy like The Drop, Sol beer pong tournaments. The retro dive bar Cantina, The Monaco, Velvet Dog and Tower atmosphere creates an old time feeling. Tavern. Tower Tavern- Tower is a trendy local Staff Writer Sam Towns The Drop Bar and Bistro- Offering an sports bar offering a sleek upscale design. array of specialty drinks and a food menu Tower offers a menu of appetizers, pizza, Luna www.lunakc.com/ that features entrees such as the Center Cut sliders and drink specials. Tower boasts 16 TV One of Kansas City’s premier nightclubs Ribeye steak and Caramelized Sea Scallops. screens and a back deck for an outdoor sports located just two blocks south of the Kansas Sol Cantina- Offers a menu of fusion experience. City Power and Light District. Luna offers cuisine from San Diego, Calif., and the Baja Hell Bar services for any type of evening on the town Peninsula that pairs with signature margaritas. “Rock has returned to Westport!” www. for the perfect 21 and up experience. On The Monaco- Presents a modern dance westportkcmo.com Hell Bar is the newest bar to Thursdays, Luna presents Caliente Nights club environment with multiple bars and open in the Westport Entertainment District, featuring mixes of popular Reggaeton, party rooms for Friday or Saturday night fun. along Westport Road. Hell Bar’s target Bachata, Latin pop and more. Fridays at Luna “Come on in and let our full on club audience is everyday working people. Hell Bar is Effen Fridays with drink specials all night. experience take you where you want to go offers a “Blue Collar” menu of drink specials All Access Saturdays bring the mixes of local with the music you want to hear,” www. and signature food. you’ll enjoy BK’s new Whopper Bar at the DJ JT Quick. monacokc.com/ BK Whopper Bar Kansas City Power and Light District (P&L). Martini Corner- www.martinicorner.com/ Velvet Dog- A nationally famous bar If you’ve ever eaten a greasy burger from On the outskirts of the Kansas City Power Located in Midtown, Martini Corner is at known for their signature martinis, Velvet Burger King (BK) and thought a nice cold and Light District’s central plaza rests the the, corner of 31st and Oak streets. This quiet Dog combines fun with more fun providing beer would be amazing along with it, then swanky BK Whopper Bar. Within its doors, little corner of fun features entertainment for guests with skee customers are confronted with a familiar the 21 and up crowd of Kansas City. Martini ball, pool and even -looking fast food menu, the same that they’d Corner has restaurants, nightclubs and find at any BK, but there’s a little something extra offered: beer. Boulevard’s best brews along with the classic standbys, Budweiser, Miller and Coors, are all available for consumption. The burgers offered at the Whopper Bar do differ slightly from your average BK. They call these new cow concoctions ‘specialty burgers’. Menu titles for these sub-par patties range from The Bourbon Whopper, which is doused in bourbon-flavored sauce, to the Angry Whopper. The Angry Whopper got its moniker from the ‘angry’ onions that top it (angry being BK’s special way of calling the onions spicy). [email protected]

Left: Lindsey Crawford, UMKC graduate with friend Ameshia, at the Monaco. Above: VIP section of Luna. Above, right: KB Whopper Bar. Photos courtesy of Google Images June 1, 2011 Arts & Entertainment|19

HowStart your college to: career the right way Nathan Zoschke and it’s easy to do at UMKC, where there attending class. Make sure you allow enough time to study for Production Manager/Copy Editor are literally hundreds of active campus Find your niche your classes. A good rule is 1-2 hours outside organizations to join. 4. Starting college can be an awkward, of class for every credit hour you’re taking. remember the pit in my stomach I felt on Don’t be a wallflower nerve-wracking experience for many people, Be healthy my first day of college last year. I had no 2. It’s easy to keep to yourself when myself included. You’re in a brand new 6. It’s easy to get sick when you’re under idea what to expect. I started to panic and you’re in a new place, but it gets you nowhere. place away from home, and chances are you a lot of stress. Sleep, exercise and a proper diet freakI out, only to quickly realize that college If you’re in a class with 50 other people, and probably don’t know very many people. are the best ways to prevent getting sick. It’s is a lot easier than people make it out to be, if you never speak up, you won’t be noticed. Be UMKC offers too many student organizations better to be proactive than reactive. taken seriously. bold. Introduce yourself to your professor for me to name, but a complete list can be Be extra careful if you live in the dorms, Here is some advice for a successful start to after class on the first day, and be sure to take found at www.studo.umkc.edu. where diseases are passed more readily. your college career: advantage of office hours. For many students, joining a fraternity or Proper hand-washing goes a long way in Get your priorities straight Find a study partner in each of your classes sorority is a great way to meet people. Luckily, preventing the flu. Students who are sexually Make sure you set your goals early and from whom you can get assignments and UMKC offers a diverse cadre of Greek active should practice protected sex. No one 1.follow through with them. Map out a plan for share notes whenever you miss class. Studying organizations. wants to deal with an unwanted pregnancy or your college career and follow through with it. in groups is a great way to prepare for a test. But Greek life isn’t for everyone. Others STD while they’re in college. Parties are fun. Everyone likes to loosen up Don’t skip class may prefer writing for the U-News or joining If you ever do get sick, the Health & at the end of the day and meet cool people, but 3. It sounds obvious, right? Not for some an organization specific to their major. Wellness Center, located in the 4825 Troost partying has strings attached. Some people people. Many professors take attendance, It’s always a good idea to think in terms of Building, offers students free visits and low- enjoy partying a bit more than they should, which they factor into your grade at the end of your résumé when looking at student groups. cost medical services. and their grades suffer because of it. the semester. Even if you know the material, Think further down the road. And last, but not least, don’t take yourself Remember, you’re in college to learn, so your grades can still slip a letter grade or two Budget your time too seriously. Your college years are meant to studying for tests and writing papers takes if you don’t show up to class. Showing up late 5. It’s a lot easier said than done. There be your best. Enjoy them. precedence over everything else. consistently can hurt your grades too, and it are only 24 hours in a day, and if you’re [email protected] Finding the right group of friends is key, looks tacky. Again, you’re in college to learn, balancing work and school, finding time to and the best ways to learn are by studying and study and have a social life can be challenging. Whereo t find fun summer jobs Johanna Poppel Photo Editor Journalism Internship Marketing Do you have a knack for news and media? Internship tudents look forward to the end of NBC Action News is hiring summer interns. Do you enjoy com- finals and that crisp, refreshing smell You can gain valuable experience in an exciting munications, journal- of freedom. But then, the dreaded time field while earning college credit. Apply at ism or advertising? Scomes for looking for a summer job. Here is a www.scripps.com/careers/jobsearch.html. Deluxe Corporation, list of summer jobs to help you find a job that Lifeguards located in Lenexa, is perfect for you. Get a nice tan while hanging out by the Kan., is looking for Amusement Parks pool as a lifesaver. Local pools and YMCAs summer content Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun are are always in need of lifeguards and swim marketing and brand common summer jobs for teens in the Kansas instructors. Stop by your local YMCA to journalism interns City area. Internships are also available. Apply apply. this summer. For at www.worldsoffun.com/public/jobs/seasonal/ Adventurous Jobs more information apply.cfm. Do you enjoy being outdoors and want check out Deluxe’s Water Parks to get out of Kansas City? Seasonal jobs are jobs page at www.de- Schlitterbahn is looking for seasonal available in some of the most beautiful places luxe.com. positions such as lifeguards, cashiers and food on earth. These cool jobs range from working Baristas services. More summer positions are available and living in a Buddhist Center in California Working in a at this fun water paradise in Kansas City, Kan. to being a camp counselor on the East Coast. coffee shop can be Apply at www.schlitterbahn.com/kc/jobs/ Find out more at www.coolworks.com a neat experience: default.htm. Graphic Design Internship you can meet a lot Retail Are you a dedicated artist who has graphic of people and learn design skills? VML, a full-service marketing how to make a mean What could be better then chilling in an air Jump into summer with a fun, exciting new job. conditioned building with cool clothes, cool agency, is offering internships for the summer. latté. Starbucks are Photo courtesy of Google Images. music and, not to mention, a cool discount? Apply at www.vml.com/careers.aspx. hiring everywhere in Retail places such as Urban Outfitters, Forever Civil Engineering and Aviation Intern- the Kansas City area, to make a difference in someone’s life and 21 and Macy’s are hiring. Kansas City is full ship check out www.snagajob.com to apply. mentor a child by volunteering with the Boys of shopping malls, shopping centers and, of HNTB has a summer internship oppor- Volunteer Jobs and Girls Club of Greater Kansas City. Check course, the Plaza, so it should be easy to find a tunity available in their Overland Park, Kan. Spend a summer helping your community it out at www.bgc-gkc.org/ retail position for the summer. office for civil engineering students. Apply at and building up volunteer hours. Some www.careers-hntb.icims.com/jobs/5503/job. hospitals and local animal shelters have great [email protected] volunteer programs. You can even choose 20|Arts & Entertainment Vol. 78, Issue 31

Eric Sobbe (left), Ashia Meyers (center) and Paula Weber (right) practicen i the dance studios at UMKC. See page 18 for Paula Webber award feature. Photoy b Mike Strong Spring Dance Concert a show of success Wylliams/Henry Contemporary Dance Company performs at UMKC’s White Recital Hall

Nicole English Contributing Writer pulsing rhythmic music by Vas. This trio Carolina Monnerat, Ashia Myers, Drew entertaining duet that pokes sardonic fun featured dancers DeeAnna Hiett, Nijawwon Shuler, Erik Sobbe, Michael Tomlinson, at the angst-ridden high drama portrayed in he Wylliams/Henry Contemporary Matthews, Drew Shuler and Gavin Stewart. and guest children artists, Juliette Raphael opera. Set to music by Gustave Charpentier Dance Company presented a stunning Inspired by indigenous musical themes, this and Chloe Koenig, this work is an excellent (“Louise, Act III, Depuis Le Jour”), and sung array of its best works for its annual piece never fails to dominate the stage and the example of how dramatic dance can also be by Leontyne Price, these well-honed dancers SpringT Dance Concert at UMKC’s White Re- audience’s attention. used to convey political speech. perform incredible, cloying contortions to cital Hall May 13-14, 2011. The next piece on the program was “Ladder Opening the second half was “Symbolic express their over-the-top passions to delight Now in its 20th year, the Company Time,” a work that has evolved over the Logic II,” created by renowned choreographer the audience. presented both new works and highlights last couple of years. This latest incarnation Sean Curran, to music by Sheila Chandra. Closing the concert was the much- from its impressive repertoire. featured well-matched dancers Erik Sobbe This updated version of the work is an anticipated, “Ferment,” a commissioned work Among the new pieces in the concert was and Michael Tomlinson in a collaborative intriguing combination of folkloric and Hindu choreographed by Mary Pat Henry with the a high-profile dance suite commissioned work with Paula Weber, and set to music by moves presented as Modern Dance. Unusual Company and set to music by Kevin Keller, by the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art to Arvo Part. and engaging, the piece was performed by and ably performed by Chloe Abel, Brittany commemorate the installation of the new Dressed in red tank suits, the dancers Chloe Abel, Brittany Duskin, DeeAnna Duskin, DeeAnna Hiett, Nijawwon Matthews, sculpture “Ferment,” created by celebrated performed studied gymnastic moves, forming Hiett, Nijawwon Matthews, Kelanie Murphy, Ashia Myers, Drew Shuler, Erik Sobbe, Gavin artist Roxy Paine for the museum’s sculpture asymmetrical, yet complementary tableaus, Ashia Myers, Drew Shuler, Erik Sobbe, Stewart and Michael Tomlinson. Dressed garden. while suspended on a tall reinforced ladder, in Gavin Stewart, Michael Tomlinson and Latra in silvery leotards, the dancers captured the The show opened with “Blue,” a modern almost perfect harmony. Wilson. mood and angularity of the metallic dendrite/ ballet choreographed by UMKC Dance Closing the first half of the concert was Next was “Session for Six,” created by well- tree-like sculpture designed by Roxy Paine. Division Director Paula Weber and set to the the dramatic and intense suite, “Esperando known choreographer Anna Sokolow, to The dancers drew together, often resembling music of Beethoven. en Silencio,” (which could be translated as music by William Catanzarro, and performed a moving human sculpture, by forming Performed by dancers Brittany Duskin, “waiting” or “hoping in silence”) and is a by Chloe Abel, Carolina Monnerat, Ashia different combinations of artfully entangled DeeAnna Hiett, Ashia Myers, Erik Sobbe, socially-conscious work that is dedicated to Myers, Drew Shuler, Erik Sobbe and Latra bodies, then breaking apart, and re-engaging Gavin Stewart and Michael Tomlinson, the “the mothers of Argentina who stood silently Wilson. Inspired by Piet Mondrian’s famous in variety of forms and shapes. moody, fluid choreography emphasized and courageously in the Plaza de Mayo each painting “Broadway Boogie Woogie,” this The show closed to a rousing standing couples’ combinations with almost seamless week” to demonstrate and give voice to the whimsical piece represents the hustle and ovation from patrons, leaving them wondering transitions. loved ones who disappeared during political bustle of youth on streets of the New York how the company could manage to top this Known for her dramatic choreography, unrest in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. City hipster scene. performance at its next concert. DeeAnna Hiett recreated her primal piece, Choreographed by Mary Pat Henry to Choreographer Robert Battle’s piece, [email protected] “Passage,” for the next selection. Set to the music by Utaki, and performed by dancers “Unfold,” was next, featuring DeeAnna Chloe Abel, Brittany Duskin, DeeAnna Hiett, Hiett and Nijawwon Matthews in clever and June 1, 2011 Arts & Entertainment|21 restaurant review New restaurant brings Peruvian cuisine Amor Picante to unsuspecting Kansas City palate Nathan Zoschke the Andes cuisine he has had back home. He Americans are used to eating to shame, and for several dollars less. Production Manager/Copy Editor wasn’t disappointed, although he said he’d still I left the restaurant excited to come back a The Arroz con Pollo we ordered was $11 for prefer his mom’s cooking. second time. dinner, but is available for $7.49 at lunch with A strip mall is the last place I would look I, unfamiliar with Peruvian food, made Lunch prices were reasonable; the tab for the option of a side salad, soup or Yucca fries. to find Peruvian food, so Amor Picante, at the mistake of asking the waiter if they had both of us, drinks included, came to less than On both visits, Amor Picante was out of Southwest Trafficway and W. 39th Street, horchata. $20, impressive for a sit-down restaurant with several menu items, and the restaurant was took me by surprise. “That’s Mexican food,” he chuckled. “We’re large portions. dead. While this would normally send an After hearing about Amor Picante, I finally South American.” My second visit was dinner with another immediate red flag, I will cut Amor Picante decided to check it out. I ordered the Arepa, a dish served with friend. He ordered the Arroz con Pollo, a some slack because it is new and starting out. My first visit was lunch with a friend from the choice of chorizo, beef or chicken and chicken dish complemented with a side of We were the only people in the restaurant Ecuador, which borders Peru. He ordered avocado. I ordered the chorizo dish, and green rice. when I went for lunch, and there were only the Seco, a spicy chicken dish with a Chupe de found it spicy and full of flavor. I ordered the Milanesa, a breaded steak two other tables with people when I revisited Pescado soup (fish chowder) on the side. However, the Chupe de Pescado that I served with rice and marinated onions, which for dinner. Service was good on both visits, My biggest fear was that he would find the ordered as my side was the highlight of my was spicy and full of flavor. although I will have to come again when there food bland and inauthentic compared with lunch. The rich, creamy soup put the chowder The chicken was tender and tasty, and the are guests before drawing a conclusion. rich, creamy Tres Leches Cake we ordered for The atmosphere was casual, and the dessert was the perfect way to end the meal. restaurant’s interior was pretty bland, Unsure of how large portions would be, we although its strip mall location doesn’t give it each ordered a slice, although one slice would a whole lot to work with. have sufficed for both of us. If Amor Picante can work out its kinks, it The tab for both of us came to about $35 for will be well on its way to becoming a solid dinner, including drinks and dessert. option for those craving South American In the future, I will probably be eating there cuisine in Kansas City. prior to 4:30 p.m., when many of the items on [email protected] the dinner menu are available as lunch entrees Advertisement ‘One Night in Bangkok’ ‘The Hangover II’ is full of funny surprises Mark Linville Editor-in-Chief and moves to Bangkok, China once the party starts. fter hearing other reviews for the Part two brings the same brand of crazy “The Hangover Part II,” I developed antics from the character Alan, played by a slight qualm in regards to the Zach Galifianakis, the comic misfortune of Arelevance of the sequel. I wondered if the Stu, played by Ed Helms, and the suave yet film would be just like its predecessor, bewildered demeanor of Bradley Cooper’s sharing plot elements and the same level of character Phil. shocking images and crude humor. Despite the recycled plot, the same brand Once I saw the film I found my qualms of plot twists and drunken quest to find a lost were indeed true. However, no one said it friend and what exactly happened the night was a bad qualm. before, part two will definitely not leave you Yes, part two had many, if not all the same, dissatisfied, if a good laugh is all you’re after. plot twists and same story development as In regards of the shock, just think of what “The Hangover” (2009). you saw in “the Hangover” and amplify that But like many American comedies times 100. banking on the audience’s need for perverted There are plenty of WTF moments in and disturbing humor, part two continues store. the tradition. One disappointing factor of the film is the If you question the need for a sequel to soundtrack. It seems as though the producers “The Hangover,” then you’re questioning the only want to play certain few popular artists. need for entertainment overall. Yes, it’s that Kanye West does not make this movie awesome. great. Wolfmother is not what gets the Much like the first film, part two leads the excitement going. Wolf Pack through the adventurous and in It is the story, the characters, the dynamic their case, dangerous world of pre-marriage of the Wolf Pack and the shocking moments known as the bachelor party. that sell “The Hangover.” Instead of Vegas, the film starts in Thailand [email protected] 22|Arts & Entertainment Vol. 78, Issue 31 guilty summer Top pleasures

10school year. So go ahead, dust off that copy and your parents wouldn’t buy the Melissa Oribhabor Managing Editor of “The Three Musketeers” you have on your good popsicles so you had to make ummer is considered the greatest time bookcase, find a comfy spot on the porch and your own with Kool-Aid and an of the year for students. For those lucky get lost in a book. ice-cube tray? Even though now enough to have summer off, the few Bad movies you can buy them yourself, and you Smonths between May and August is the perfect 7. Have you ever been flipping through should, don’t forget that simple is time to engage in activities that, during any the channels, and you see “Glitter” on just as delicious. Packets of Kool- other time, would be deemed inappropriate VH1, and although you’d love to know why Aid still usually run for 10 for a or unnecessary. Some may choose to spend everyone thinks that movie is so horrible, dollar, a much better deal than the summer working hard at a part-time or full- you have better things to do with your time? going rate for the good popsicles. time job, and some may choose to do nothing Well, now you don’t, so go ahead and watch Another fun thing to do is make at all. Regardless of which one you choose, it. In fact, watch all those movies you’ve kind your own ice cream. You can buy Don’te b like Snooki. Wear sunscreen when tanning. here are the top 10 summer guilty pleasures of wanted to see for novelty value but couldn’t an ice cream maker, or make it by Photo courtesy of Google Images most people can enjoy. convince yourself it was worth it. So many hand, either way it’s a fun activity Tanning people have Netflix but only use it to watch you can do with your friends and/ new releases. Why not take a look and see or younger family members. reserved for Saturdays, but during the summer A tan is generally regarded as it tends to apply all week long. Sure, your dad attractive.10. Men and women alike tend to strive what the early ‘90s had to offer in cinema? “Me Time” Even if the movie was horrible, at least now Go to the gym, the movies or a will make you get up early one day to mow the for that healthy, bronze glow that is so easy to 2. lawn, or your roommate will wake you up at 7 obtain in the summer when the sun is high and you can say you’ve seen it. concert. Do things because you want to, not Re-runs because it will get you a better grade or pad a.m. because he or she needs you to take them the days are long. But, however attractive a tan to the airport. For the most part, the summer is, skin cancer and sunburns are not. There is Finally! All the TV shows you your résumé. Many students work or have 6.missed because you were working, studying internships during the summer, which is sleep is the most amount of rest you’re ever no need for a tanning booth when you have going to get. Once school is out for good and the good, old-fashioned sun right there for or partying. Summer is great for catching great, but remember that your whole life can’t up on all your favorite series, since most be about work. These are the few months out real life sets in, the summer months will be no free to help you out, but make sure you take different than fall or spring, and you’ll have the proper precautions. Whether going to the shows are on hiatus during the summer of the year when being a little selfish is okay. months. Unfortunately, Hulu doesn’t offer Even those people who have full-time jobs to get up early every day, Monday through pool or running to the store, make sure you Friday all year round to go to work. Enjoy this wear an SPF lotion over your exposed skin. full episodes of every show, so this might be get a vacation every year; don’t forget to take your only opportunity to catch up on the plot yours too. while it lasts. Don’t forget your face, ears, chest and neck, [email protected] which tend to be frequently missed. And don’t before the new season starts this fall. Sleeping in forget, you’re not Snooki, it’s okay to not have ‘Summer love’ 1. The absolute, hands-down, best part a tan, you’re still hot, regardless. 5. Go ahead, do it. Date that girl who of the summer is not waking up until you’re Big hats and sunglasses goes to the University of Missouri- St. Louis good and ready. This is a luxury usually For many, sunglasses and floppy hats and is only home for summer break. Go out 9.are some of the more fun, and superficial, with that guy who is only in town for the parts of summer, but they serve a greater summer to take care of his grandmother. purpose than you think. There is nothing wrong with a fun, no-holds- “UV rays can damage the retina, which barred romance you both know will end in increases the risk of macular degeneration, August. You’re only young once. So as long as the leading cause of blindness among older no one gets pregnant, tattooed with the other Americans,” Dr. Emily Senay wrote in an person’s name, or married for 55 hours like article for CBS News. “UV radiation can also Britney Spears, this could just be one of those damage the eye lens and cause cataracts and, summers when you look back a year from now in extreme cases, cancer of the eye.” and think “What was his/her name again? Oh Additionally, hats help protect the scalp, well, that was fun.” and the hats with larger rims help to keep Showing a little skin the sun off the face and neck. These are just 4. Many people make that New Year’s two summer trends that are fashionable and resolution in January to lose weight, either to healthy. be healthy, or just to look good in a swimsuit. Reading (or lack thereof) Either way, now the miserable Missouri winter During the school year, we tend is over, let those arms be free in a tank top, and 8.to have so many reading assignments that give your legs a breather from jeans with a pair the thought of reading anything we’re not shorts or a skirt. Regardless of what you look getting credit for seems insane. Summertime like, summer is the time to be comfortable, not is perfect for those burnt out students who bundled up like an Eskimo. Be proud of what want to have a few months where the only you have and enjoy the summer, in whatever thing they will probably read is the occasional floral, basketball shorts, sun dress, cutoff jeans newspaper or magazine. But for others, and short-shorts sort of way you see fit. summertime is perfect for reading all those Cold treats novels there was no time for during the 3. Remember when you were younger Advertisement JuneAug. 1, 20,2011 2011 Arts & Entertainment|Sports|23

Dakar used to be something that you only watched on T.V., but when I did the whole thing “as a mechanic, it became a possibility for me. -Luis Beláustegui, UMKC professor UMKC professor participates” in international competition Living the Dakar dream Photo courtesy of Luis Beláustegui Lydia Strong Staff Writer another. the first five days. They started their liaisons we left at 1 p.m.” “The last big crash, I broke both of my legs around 5 a.m. and finished with the specials This was day seven and despite the time n January 2011, Luis Beláustegui rode his during a motocross race here in Missouri,” he by 7 p.m., Beláustegui said. loss Beláustegui was still in the race. first Dakar rally when shaky rules cut him said. “That was about 10 or 12 years ago.” On day six, trouble arrived. “We rode till about 2 a.m. Then we stopped out of the race. He was on his way to set a After recuperating, a friend convinced him Beláustegui helped eight riders who and slept in the desert,” Beláustegui said. “At worldI record by completing it on a small bike. to ride cross-country rallies. decided to ride in a train behind him and about 6:30 a.m., we got going again.” “Every two years or so, somebody attempts One thing led to another and in 2009, Stanfield. The two bikers rode nonstop till the last to ride with a small bike and they don’t finish. Beláustegui assisted in the Dakar as a This cost Beláustegui a significant amount checkpoint. They arrived a little after 6 p.m. But I am sure it can be done,” said Beláustegui, mechanic. of time. “Then they told us that we were 12 minutes Director of UMKC’s Language Resource “Dakar used to be something that you “Advancing as a group is really complicated,” late,” Beláustegui said. “[Shocked], I wanted Center. only watched on TV,” Beláustegui said. “[But Beláustegui said. “When somebody in the to fight everyone there.” The maximum acceptable volume of a bike’s when] I did the whole thing as a mechanic, it group had a problem, the whole group Beláustegui believed the officials told him engine in this race used to be 700cc (cubic became a possibility for me.” stopped. I would go back, fix their bikes, pick he had until 8 p.m. to finish the stage. meters). Now, the officials are in the process A bitter price for the true Dakar spirit. them up and keep them going.” “I don’t know if it was a mistake on their of decreasing it to 450cc. Yet, Beláustegui rode On Jan. 1, Beláustegui started in his first Instead of finishing his race by 7 p.m., part or my misunderstanding,” Beláustegui it on a 150cc bike from KTM, he said. Dakar with a teammate, Michael Stanfield, Beláustegui had 100 kilometers (62 miles) of said. “The truth of the matter is that it would “As you can imagine, everybody owner of Freedom Cycles in Grandview, Mo. dunes still ahead of him when night fell. have been fine if the rules applied to everyone.” laughed at me,” Beláustegui said. “But “The idea was to go through one Several trucks came in behind him but the that was fine, that’s what I was looking As you can imagine, everybody was to three dunes, stop on the top of officials kept them in the race, Beláustegui for.” a dune and wait for everybody to said. While fighting the disqualification, he Dakar is a 15-day rally through a laughingt a me. But that was fine, catch up,” Beláustegui said. “When confronted the officials on letting the trucks harsh desert terrain. Competitors race it in that’s what I was looking for. somebody fell, I went back, picked continue the race. cars, big trucks and on motorcycles. “ him up, had him rest and then we “Their explanation was, ‘well we only have -Luis Beláustegui, UMKC professor The first Dakar started on Dec. 26, 1978, started again.” a few trucks left in the race’. So, the rules don’t and went from Paris, France to Dakar, Senegal. In Dakar, each day’s race consists of a Despite his help, seven of the helped riders mean very much,” Beláustegui said. “But the “This year was the third time it went from liaison and a special. A liaison connects the didn’t cross the dunes and Stanfield hit a rock thing that really bothers me is that they knew Argentina to Chile,” Beláustegui said. rider’s camp with the start of the special. The ”and broke two toes about halfway through. when I stopped and why I stopped.” Beláustegui is a native of Argentina. It is special is the actual timed race. In the 15 days, He had to give up the race soon after. First, the riders whom he helped confirmed where his passion originated. riders cover about 6,000 miles. Beláustegui rode on with the last remaining his story. And then, every rider received a “I’ve been riding motorcycles on the streets “Out of those 6,000 miles, you probably rider. “We had to get to the camp before 5 tracking device which showed the officials since I was 15 years old,” Beláustegui said. have 4,000 miles of specials and the rest are a.m.,” Beláustegui said. “At about 4:30 a.m., everybody’s location in real time. “My first job was at a gas station when I was liaisons,” Beláustegui said. “[And at all times] my bike ran out of gas in the middle of the This was a bitter end, but Beláustegui 15, and I only took the job to make money to you are muscling a 200 or 300-pound bike desert and I thought I was done.” proved his point by continuing to ride on the buy a bike.” through difficult terrain. That takes skill and a But there were about 100 people stranded assistance route all the way to the finish. In his 20s Beláustegui started racing lot of energy.” in the dunes, according to Beláustegui, so “Luis is perhaps the perfect example of motocross and pushing the limits. While racing, Beláustegui helped many the officials decided to extend the 5 a.m. living the Dakar dream,” said KTM. He was “I could go a lot faster than what my riders who lacked such skill and energy. deadline until 1 p.m. And at about 10 a.m., a 12 minutes late, “because he chose to stop physical condition allowed me,” he said. “But “I made the mistake of stopping and truck coming through the dunes spotted him, and assist many riders along the way. That’s motocross really wears you out. If you are not helping more than I should,” Beláustegui said. stopped and gave him gas. the true Dakar spirit and it deserves to be able to control the bike, you crash.” “I stopped, picked up their bike, waited for “We got to the camp at about 11 [a.m.] and recognized.” Beláustegui crashed for many years, he said, them to start it and if it didn’t start, I fixed the I took a one hour nap, talked to my mechanic, [email protected] and ended up breaking eight bones, one after bike.” marked my road book and then we left,” Beláustegui and Stanfield were doing great Beláustegui said. “Everybody left at 5 a.m. but 24|Sports Vol. 78, Issue 31 Two teams claim Summit League Champion titles Tennis team earns NCAA bid Louis Trigg Asst. News Editor Hasandedic showcased outstanding skill against Mojsejev, winning two games, 6-0 and 6-3. Fleming The UMKC men’s tennis team captured a victorious followed, winning 6-3 and 6-2. season as champions of the Summit League Tournament, Expectedly, accolades were plentiful for the team this earning an automatic bid in the NCAA tournament. spring, as Hasandedic won The Summit League Player This was the third time UMKC won the tournament and Newcomer of the Year. Head Coach Kendell Hale in school history. The victory was also reflective of their was named League Coach of the Year also, winning the season’s play, since the ‘Roos ended with a perfect record tournament for a second time. in league interplay. Winning fourteen consecutive matches, this was the In doubles action, the school won the No. 1 and third time UMKC won the regular season title. The team No. 3 slots. Sophomores Nino Hasandedic and Grant improved to an overall record 16-6. Fleming overpowered Bren Vasalakis and Daniel The ‘Roos ultimately fell to No. 14 Texas in the opening Klingenberg, 8-4. Abdulrahman Alawadhi and Senior round of the NCAA Tournament, 4-0. Regardless, it was Serge Ristivojevic worked together for an 8-3 win over an excellent building season for the team. Ivan Mojsejev and Chase Emerson. It was the fourth NCAA appearance for UMKC. Singles action was equally successful. [email protected]

The UMKC’s men’s tennis team celebrates the Summit League championship victory. Tennis team earns NCAA bid Photo courtesy of UMKC Athletics Louis Trigg Asst. News Editor third, finishing two under par. Mickaelsson ended with a score of 214 (74-72-68). The men’s golf team continued a winning The tournament win wasn’t the only attitude among UMKC teams this spring reason to celebrate the championship when it won The Summit League Men’s performance. Freshman Cole Chelle was honored Advertisement Golf Championships, marking the feat for the first time in school history. as the Newcomer of the Championships, Junior Will Robson played the sixth best while Mikaelsson and Robson were named individual single round score in school to the All-Tournament Team. history, posting a second round score of Head Coach J.W. VanDenBorn also won 67 at the championship. He eventually recognition as Summit League Coach of the finished seven under par, posting a score of Year. 209 (72-67-70). Ultimately, the team posted a final score Overall, the team peaked in time for play of 860, good enough for the third best at the NCAA Tournament. tournament score in school history. It also followed Robson’s effort with a At the NCAA Men’s Golf Indiana Region complete third round score of 277, a new Tournament, UMKC finished 13th. UMKC school record in single round play. The top five teams advanced in the While Robson was the runner-up, national tournament. Sophomore Viktor Mikaelsson tied for [email protected]

The UMKC’s men’s golf team celebrates the Summit League championship victory. Photo courtesy of UMKC Athletics JuneJune 1,1, 20112011 Forum|Sports|2525 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. There’s a new chief in town Mark Linville Editor-in-Chief I can’t help but look back to when I was journalists. reluctant to write, thinking I had no ability to U-News already is a great paper featuring ello UMKC community and beyond. do so. Was I wrong? That’s for the reader to great people and current issues in the Wow, I can’t believe someone like decide. community, I just intend to make it even me could ever be in this position, a In my time at UMKC, four years and better. Hposition of leading, educating, informing, counting, I have learned and experienced It is my priority to uphold and reinforce the managing, facilitating and growing as a more than I could have imagined. The same 78 years of tradition established in 1933 by professional individual. can be said in my years writing and editing for both the founders of UKC and The University I am both honored and excited to announce U-News. This publication truly is a medium Crest, (U-News) through this publication. It is that I will be the Editor-in-Chief (EIC) for the of learning. I encourage everyone, no matter important to use visual supplements such as a 2011-2012 academic year for The University what your major is to see what I am talking collegiate newspaper to show our school pride News. about. and in doing so show the community and Serving as the EIC is both daunting and Like my first EIC atU-News , Hilary Hedges, the rest of the world that this truly is a great fulfilling at once. It only seems like yesterday and my sensei Melissa Oribhabor, and every university. I want to thank all of our current when I came to UMKC, starting as a film EIC before me, I will make U-News all it can and future readers for supporting U-News. student, not having a clue of what the world be, a newspaper that readers can be proud of. You all truly reinforce the passion that each had in store. I was so nervous to pursue a professional A paper that is regularly picked up by all to and every one of our writers has within them. I can remember contacting Derek Simons, field, so making the call was kind of scary. read the latest News, Arts & Entertainment, [email protected] the U-News EIC in the fall 2007, about Never would I have known I too would Sports, and Forum topics put together by photography. soon be captain of the ship that is U-News. a passionate and diverse staff of student Save Kansas City from ‘Save the Plaza’ Nathan Zoschke way or the other, although sales-per-square- Main, is a beautiful brick building with ornate Production Manager/Copy Editor foot have increased substantially. terra cotta architectural embellishments. How ironic righteous outrage is, especially I drive by it almost daily, and have yet to see often wonder how people in Kansas City when people who haven’t even set foot on the any work done on the building, although tax- can be so ignorant of the city in which Plaza in years claim to be the ones “saving” it. increment financing to renovate the building they live. Maybe it’s because the Save the Plaza group was approved several years ago. INothing illustrates this problem better than is disseminating false information to push its Windows on the side of the building have the Save the Plaza campaign, which is running agenda, whatever it may be, and people don’t remained open since last summer, exposing a petition drive seeking a ballot initiative, bother fact-checking their claims. the building to rain, snow and weather which, if approved, would halt the demolition The Save the Plaza campaign’s web pages extremes. of a 1960s-era apartment complex on the show outdated project renderings that There are schools owned by the Kansas outskirts of the Plaza. included the demolition of the Balcony City, Missouri School District that have been The building, the Neptune Apartments, is Building, a historic 1920s building on the closed for decades, with boarded windows about as boring and unimaginative as faux- Plaza. In reality, the Balcony Building won’t and overgrown lots. The same story can be Mediterranean-style apartment buildings be affected by the Neptune’s demolition and retold a million time with churches, houses come. It doesn’t stand out, nor does it replacement. and other buildings on Kansas City’s East conform particularly well to the 1920s brick, However, actual historic buildings continue Side that continue to rot day-in and day-out. tile and terra cotta Seville-influenced Plaza to fall apart and be demolished as we speak But unfortunately, money talks and architecture. without an inkling of public ire. buildings don’t. The current proposal is to demolish the People had no issue demolishing the The main difference between the Neptune Neptune and replace it with a similar-scale historic TWA building on Baltimore to build and other buildings I’ve mentioned is office building. the Power and Light District, or the former location. The Neptune is across the street The Save the Plaza group is not the Law Building at 12th and Grand, across from from $1 million condos. The Hawthorn is in a the Sprint Center, which was replaced with a mixed-income neighborhood, and the vacant miniscule clan of neighborhood association comments on Save the Plaza’s Facebook page parking lot. schools and churches on the East Side are next vigilantes and architectural tightwads one and articles on the Kansas City Star’s website People had no issue demolishing either door to ramshackle houses and overgrown might expect it to be. Rather, it is a well- about the project. building, and these are just two of the vacant lots. funded campaign with its own attorney (the One poster made a comment about the numerous historic Kansas City buildings that I’m not asking for much, just for people to same guy who told Earnings tax opponents Plaza being overrun by “Mickey-D’s” and have been demolished over the past decade. be more aware of the community in which not to work in Kansas City) and nearly 10,000 chain stores, when in reality, McDonald’s There were no yard signs, bumper stickers, they live. Facebook fans. closed its Plaza store several years ago. protests, petition drives or Facebook groups. If you’re going to waste time on a petition Crazy, right? Since Highwoods Properties (which These buildings died a slow and painful drive to waste taxpayer money on a public Either I am completely remiss in my several “Save the Plaza” posters misidentified thinking or the 10,000-or-so Save the Plaza death. Kansas City didn’t even blink. vote, do it on something that counts. as “Highlands”) purchased the Plaza from J.C. Other buildings continue to rot without the fans are clueless. Nichols in the late 1990s, the balance of local [email protected] I’m going to go with the latter, after reading public caring and launching a petition drive. tenants and national chains hasn’t swayed one The Hawthorn apartments, at 39th and 26|Forum Vol. 78, Issue 31 Not your everyday girl!

Rosita Rique-Sanchez me wrong, I love being a woman, I just don’t go to work with them, I clean the house (or Assistant Production Manager feel the extra work is necessary. dorm) with them and even work on my car Now and then I do dress up if I feel like it. I with them. I can pretty much do anything am not your everyday girl. I do not like to will put on a decent outfit and a little makeup. with my nails. wear dresses all the time, I prefer flip-flops It all depends on the mood. I’m not going to I do all types of designs, colors, textures and to high heels, and I truly dislike makeup. do this daily but I do enjoy this self-pampering even lengths. If I had enough time, I would II was raised wearing girly outfits with my every once in a while. coordinate my colors daily. hair in ponytails or pigtails and even curled. I don’t like all the extra girly things women But that is simply a little too much work– You will not find me in these things now, do to themselves every day. like that whole makeup thing. unless I just throw my hair in a bun and call But one thing I will not go without are So, like I said, I’m not your average girl. it a day. my fingernails. I won’t go through putting I hate the extra girly things women do to My outfit of choice: T-shirt and blue jeans, on makeup or dressing up daily, but I will do themselves, but I do love my nails. and maybe sweats if I can get away with it. I my nails every two weeks, and sometimes I I work on cars, I work at Pam’s Chicago just don’t like dressing up other than special change the polish in between time. I do them Style Dogs and More, where we deal with a lot occasions. myself and it doesn’t cost me anything extra. of greasy foods. Being a girl is too much work sometimes. I love going to the nail shop, but it’s far too Oh, the little habits some women have, but To have to make your hair perfect, put makeup expensive for a “broke” college student. that is a story for another day. on and suffer all day with high heels. Yes, I will have my nails done all the time. [email protected] No, thank you. It’s just not for me. Don’t get You wouldn’t catch me dead without them. I Not your everyday boy

Devon White A&E Editor information from across the world and have it Scott-Heron coined the phrase “the revolution readily available. will not be televised.” “The revolution may not be televised, but it Add to that the minutes it takes to link I would counter Gil Scott-Heron’s infamous will be posted online.” it to my Facebook, Twitter, and WordPress phrase by stating that social networking and Hi my name is Devon White and I am a account, and the efficiency in sharing 21st century technology is encouraging and self-proclaimed couch potato. But that doesn’t knowledge and spreading informative illuminating revolution. mean I’m not also an activist in my own way. messages is instantaneous. Social networking back then was really It has been several months since I have Consider what Facebook did for the Egypt socially and politically connecting around gotten off of my couch, painted protest signs protests (Day of Rage on Jan. 25, 2011) and a shared social cause, bartering favors and and applied my social justice war paint. how that revolution shaped the Egyptian stirring up participants to fight establishments I’m an English major and my real strength political landscape, as we know it. that would persecute minorities. lies in my ability to express myself through Revolutions can be started online and Taking to the streets is not the only way to written words. impact the world outside the Internet. create social change. I have learned that the written word Historically, political and social movements There are many ways one might be an coupled with technology is a strong weapon did not have the luxury of the Internet to activist from his or her couch, with a pen or against inequities and marginalization. spread the word. Word-of-mouth, in-house deep in the trenches of marches and protest The time that it takes to post relevant printings and local activist chapters gave the events. political, feminist and environmental news is social movement instructions and momentum My activism is a mixture of face-to-face no more than going through my daily cadre of (i.e. the MLK Jr. March on Washington). activism, Internet social movement coupled blogs and news websites: The Rachel Maddow It wasn’t an instantaneous process, but its with writing. I enjoy using technology to Blog, Huffington Post, Sociological Images and affects were potent and sparked fire in the further social causes. The New York Times, for starters. I use RSS Feeds to aggregate news and movement’s supporters. In the 1970s Gil [email protected]

Wanna see more? Finds u online at www.unews.com. June 1, 2011 Forum|27 Too much spandex? Lindsay Adams News Editor of Steel.” How else could producers get away with Can’t you see this must be something releasing all of these sequels and revamps love superhero movies as much as the new and original? This isn’t just another that are merely repackaged duplicates? When next girl, probably a lot more than the next “Spiderman” film… this is “The Amazing the movies that have $80 million budgets are girl, as I am a bit of a closet nerd. I love Spiderman.” Can’t film moguls give us a the only ones that are making money…isn’t ChristopherI Nolan’s Batman movies to a level few years to recover before thrusting a new that a bad sign? Isn’t there something a little that if I weren’t so good at deluding myself, film into our faces that is only transparently disappointing in the fact that these are the could only be described as unhealthy. disguised as something original? only films we are willing to spend money on? I was awaiting “The Dark Knight Rises,” the I can understand it is the prime moment I am not saying I will not be at the midnight final installment in Nolan’s trilogy, with bated for such films in America. Like the Shirley showing of “The Dark Knight Rises.” I will breath…only to discover that some directors Temple films and the extravagant musicals probably check out “Captain America” and are in talks to revamp the “Batman” series yet of the depression, these films are a form of “X-Men: First Class” as well. again, even before the last of Nolan’s “Batman” escapism. They help people in this time of Superhero films are well and good. All I am movies has wrapped filming. economic crisis to escape from reality, like asking is just don’t let them punch or rocket That and the release of “Thor” a few weeks the fact that gas prices are ever-rising, as is our or web or laser out the rest of the films that are ago set me wondering. Are there just too national debt. These films do serve a purpose. being released. many superhero movies coming out as of late? The simple fact is we need heroes. We need I will continue to occasionally pay my six Many people thought superhero films were a people who represent the best of humanity bucks to see overly muscular men punch fad, like vampires and zombies and musicals, who are noble, strong and not only willing, but through walls and female superheroes beat also able to defend those that are trampled on up men three times their size, but I will be that would lose popularity as quickly as they Ordinary Family” and “The Cape.” gained it. Yet, the craze only seems to be and marginalized. They embody who we wish discerning about which ones I see. Films that are soon to be released include we were. These films let us live vicariously For each superhero film I see, I resolve growing. “Captain America,” “The Green Lantern,” These films are so popular they are able to through the heroes, but also sometimes to see a film that doesn’t involve spandex “The Avengers” (a superhero band that hinder us from actually taking the initiative to and millions of dollars’ worth of computer- get A-list actors, some with Academy Awards, includes “Iron Man,” “Captain America,” for example, “Thor” co-starred Anthony become “heroes” in our own right. generated images. As a very wise person said, “Thor,” and “The Hulk”), “X-Men: First Class, Also, when you get down to it, many “With great power comes great responsibility.” Hopkins and Natalie Portman. Marvel has An Untitled X-Men Sequel,” “X-Men Origins: even started its own production company. superhero movies are just plain entertaining. You are the target audience for these films and Deadpool” and “Iron Man 3.” The question I am left with is…Are all in the long run, the financiers of the film. You Recent superhero films include four There has been an effort made by “X-Men” movies, three “Spiderman” movies, these superhero movies just a fad or is it a have great power, it is just up to you to use filmmakers to make moviegoers feel like they disconcerting trend? Have we hit the point that power wisely. Think about how you are two “Iron Man” movies, two “Fantastic are being given something different by spicing Four” movies, two “The Hulk” movies, one where we cannot invest in a character unless spending your money, before you buy a movie up the titles with a new phrase. Both the new they catch fire or grow wings? Are non-stop ticket. “Superman” movie, and two “Batman” movies. films starring “Spiderman” and “Superman” action sequences and tight, skimpy bodysuits [email protected] This “fad” has even started to affect kids’ films are trying this tactic. For example the new and TV shows spawning “Megamind,” “No the only way to hold an audience’s attention “Superman” film coming out is called “Man anymore? What is love? Patricia Barra Forum Editor of true love. of humanity. Of course as I am only 19, I am not The more ugly stories, talk of divorces, n my commute to UMKC I saw an thinking about finding it. I am no expert on and the less people deal with such a powerful elderly couple. They must have been the subject, but I love seeing people every day subject, all give marriage a bad name. It is a in their late 70s. They were holding who prove those statistics wrong. wonderful union between two people and it Ohands and looking into each other’s eyes like Seeing a couple weather all types of does not deserve its bad reputation. teenagers off to their senior prom. There was challenges and tribulations brings out the The old couple showed me the importance such a spark and true love in their eyes that romantic in me, and I think that true love has of remembering that true love exists and has took my breath away. not gone away. For example, on the Oprah not gone away. It’s the most touching thing They walked as if they were the only ones Show she had President Obama and First seeing moments like that and I feel people on earth. That show of love made me think Lady Michelle Obama. The way they talked have forgotten that. I hope this serves as a of what their “story” could be. Were they about and looked at each other proved once reminder of how it is still obtainable and not high school sweethearts or did they meet again that true love will ride out any situation. impossible. unexpectedly by fate? Maybe they were It is possible and it is lovely to see. I wonder about and would love to hear childhood friends? I will admit not every story has a happy more stories like this. The media should focus It is rare to see such love like that. How ending. But, seeing those happy endings have on this and bring people hope. has it weathered many decades? I feel that in to outweigh the bad ones. In closing, I want to leave people with the media they talk about divorces so much I wish the media would show true love some food for thought. As philosopher Erich that people lose focus on couples who are still stories like this more instead of the story of Fromm once said, “Immature love says I love happily married. There are always the famous someone cheating on his spouse or vice versa you because I need you. Mature love says I like “one in three marriages end in divorce” in or worse situations. I believe those stories are need you because I love you.” magazines. We have forgotten the existence more interesting than showing the ugly parts [email protected] WOC:w “Ho are you going to spend your summer?”Melissa Oribhabor Managing Editor

Samantha Forsyth Kyler Christian Vasudev Krish Chiluba J. Musonda Luke Whitworth Etagegn O’Neill Junior , Pre-dental Senior, Business Graduate, Electrical Master’s , Public Second-year law school Junior , Elementary “[I will be] working at the Marketing Engineering Administration “[I will be] working on Education union and I will be doing “I am taking anatomy at “[I will be] going to St. Louis “[I will be] just working here campus [as a student “I am working as a Lauren some volunteering at KCKCC and hopefully going to see the Cardinals play the in the [computer] lab. I have union intern] and hanging Baxter’s conference Operation Breakthrough.” to Mexico.” Giants.” no courses this summer.” out with good friends.” assistant.”

Where will you live during the fall Last week’s poll results semester? Did you vote in the SGA Executive Board Election? A. In a residence hall. 60% Yes. Go to unews. 18% No. B. Off campus. com and tell us 8% What’s SGA? C. At home. your answer! 4% There was an election? D. On the moon. Polls Reader

UNIVERSITY NEWS Editorial Board Editor-in-Chief Mark Linville Advertising Manager Phil Bolin Business Manager Mutsa Majee Production Manager Nathan Zoschke Asst. Production Manager Rose Rqiue-Sanchez Sudoku News Editor Lindsay Adams Asst. News Editor Louis Trigg Forum Editor Patricia Barra A&E Editor Devon White Sports Editor Luke Harman Copy Editor Michelle Heiman Copy Editor Nathan Zoschke Copy Editor Mal Hartigan Photo Editor Johanna Poppel Online Editor Ethan Parker Distribution Mutsa Majee Faculty Advisor Fred Wickman

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