NYU’s Daily Student Newspaper
WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS Vol. 41, No. 24
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13, 2013
Non-CAS faculty remain divided on NYU leadership
SEXTON UNDER SCRUTINY
By NICOLE BROWN
RACHEL KAPLAN/WSN
CAS faculty members remain lone school to cast vote of no confidence Approximately 50 percent of eligible CAS faculty members have cast their ballot in the vote of no confidence as of 11 p.m. yesterday, halfway through the allotted voting period. Other NYU schools have not organized similar votes of no confidence. *WSN did not request the figures for votes cast for or against NYU President John Sexton’s performance at time of press to avoid influencing the outcome of the final vote.
Bryce Dallas Howard screens film at NYU By MARISSA ELLIOT LITTLE
On Thursday, actress Bryce Dallas Howard will visit her alma mater, NYU. “NYU was one of the most important times in my youth,” said “The Help” star. “I found friends and a community that I feel like for the rest of my life will artistically challenge me and will be real with me so that I can continue to grow beyond school.” Howard returns to promote Canon’s Project Imagin8ion, a project that allows anyone to submit photographs in one of 10 narrative categories. Her father, Academy Award-winner Ron Howard, chooses the primary photo-winner from each category, and their work will be used in a short film. Initially asked to direct the short film, the elder
Howard was unable to commit due to conflicts with another project. His daughter became involved when someone else suggested she take his place. “He was laughing because he didn’t think of it himself,” the younger Howard said. Howard is no stranger to directing short films. This year, she directed “When You Find Me,” a collaboration written by Dane Charbonneau, her writing partner of six years and brother-in-law. As a result, Howard is quite enthusiastic for her new project. “We were never faced with a blank page. We had collaborators. We had support. And looking at those photographs really challenged us to move out of our comfort zones in terms of story-
BRYCE continued on PG. 4
nyunews.com
While the Faculty of Arts and Science continues to cast their e-ballots for the vote of no confidence against NYU President John Sexton, other faculty members have started discussions on the state of shared governance. The Steinhardt Faculty Affairs Committee and the Steinhardt Faculty Council sent an email to the entire staff of the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education and Human Development on Monday asking them to consider a draft proposal of shared governance and the faculty bill of rights drafted by the NYU chapter of the American Association of Professors. Professor of social studies education Robert Cohen explained this is not a proposal for a vote of no confidence. Rather, it is a broader call to faculty members to discuss the issues of governance. “We haven’t had a conversation yet with the whole
school, but at least within the Faculty Council there is a concern about it, and that’s why they adopted the resolution,” Cohen said. The Steinhardt faculty were asked to provide responses to the proposal by March 25, and the feedback will be discussed at the faculty meeting on April 8. The proposal addresses similar concerns that the FAS has brought to light — including the lack of representation on the NYU 2031 plan — but also focuses on two less-publicized issues. The first is the failure of the Board of Trustees to consult the faculty when the members voted to hire Sexton. Professor of education sociology and chair of the Steinhardt Faculty Council Floyd Hammack explained that sometimes when positions open at universities, a search committee is created to make recom-
CONFIDENCE continued on PG. 3
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
CURRENT VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE IS PREMATURE: Students and faculty should consider the university’s current standing before coming to a conclusive decision. JAYWANT on PG. 7
COURTESY OF CANON USA
Howard’s new short film is inspired by Canon’s Project Imagin8ion.
BONUSES GIVEN TO NYU ADMINISTRATORS REVEALS NYU’S FOR-PROFIT TENDENCIES: Columnist Edward Radzivilovskiy argues against the university’s marketization of education. RADZIVILOVSKIY on PG. 7
2
WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13, 2013 | NYUNEWS.COM
ON THE SIDE STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS
LETTERPRESS Even if you long ago grew bored with “Words with Friends,” a hidden gem for iPhone and iPad owners is the similar “Letterpress.” The app puts a spin on the traditional word game by adding a puzzle element for players as they choose words. Fill the game’s board with your color before your opponent does to win each match in an addicting, tug-of-war experience. – JONATHON DORNBUSH
5
COMPILED BY THE
WSN STAFF
IN AND OF
THE CITY
34
12
It’s a big city and a widespread university. Catch up with our daily updates on university and city/state news headlines other publications are covering.
PHOTO BY JOON LEE
AMY ZHANG Web Managing Editor
Deputy Managing Editor
JORDAN MELENDREZ Assistant Managing Editor
NICOLA PRING KALEEL MUNROE SENIOR STAFF
university TATIANA BAEZ city/state VERONICA CARCHEDI investigative NICOLE BROWN arts JOSH JOHNSON features KRISTINA BOGOS sports MARY JANE DUMANKAYA multimedia RACHEL KAPLAN copy MICHAEL DOMANICO,
WICY WANG foreign correspondent JULIE DEVITO senior editors GENTRY BROWN, DAN
HINTON, CHARLES MAHONEY, CLIO MCCONNELL, STEFAN MELNYK, LAVYA YALAMANCHI
DEPUTY STAFF
university KEVIN BURNS, NEELA QADIR city/state EMILY BELL, ANDREW
KARPAN books/theater OLIVIA GEORGE film JEREMY GROSSMAN entertainment ALEX GREENBERGER music ALEXANDRIA ETHRIDGE the highlighter blog SAM RULLO features HELEN HOLMES beauty & style MICHELLE LIM dining ANGEL CHANG sports FRANCISCO NAVAS multimedia REBECCA CLEMENTI,
CAMERA LENS MUGS Don’t be fooled by these mugs. They may look like Canon lenses, but they’re made to hold your favorite hot and cold beverages. Drink in style with these replicas. You can find them on Amazon for less than $15.00. – RACHEL KAPLAN
An intricate piece dazzles patrons at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
Managing Editor
Creative Director
WACOM BAMBOO STYLUS Whether you’re an avid Apple fanboy or simply own a touchscreen device, the Wacom Bamboo Stylus should find a home in your tech accessory collection. Solidly built and reliably responsive, the $29.99 price tag makes it both affordable and attractive. – KEITH JOHNSON
SNAPSHOT
Editor-in-Chief JONATHON DORNBUSH
HANQING CHEN
SLEEPYTI.ME Waking up tired and groggy is not an option mid-semester. To maximize your few precious hours of sleep, you can use sleepyti.me to determine exact bedtimes based on complete rapid eye movement sleep cycles, so you can wake up as fully rested as possible. – HANQING CHEN
THIS AMERICAN LIFE One of the most popular radio shows in the country, manned by a talented team of journalists and led by charismatic personality Ira Glass, This American Life is a show for all tastes. Covering a specific theme each week, the gang has covered everything from calamari to the financial crisis. Make sure to download their free app and add “The Giant Pool of Money” to the top of your must-listen list. – AMY ZHANG
WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS
JOON LEE
OPINION PAGE opinion editor
SAMEER JAYWANT deputy opinion editors
EDWARD RADZIVILOVSKIY, RAQUEL WOODRUFF
VIA FLICKR.COM
POLICE OFFICE FACES CONVICTION On Tuesday Gilberto Valle, a New York City police officer, was convicted for conspiring to kidnap, kill and eat women. Though he did not carry out his plan, he took preliminary actions — such as planting surveillance cameras to watch his victims — which were enough to solidify his conviction. — THE NEW YORK TIMES STARVING ARTISTS ... ARE STILL STARVING City officials have stated that the Cultural Institutions Retirement System has been recieving more money than is necessary for the number of employees covered. In order to save taxpayers from unnecessary charges, New York City has suspended payment to the plan. — THE NEW YORK TIMES
ADVERTISING BUSINESS MANAGER
REBECCA RIBEIRO CIRCULATION MANAGER
CHLOE COFFMAN
UNIVERSITY SALES COORDINATOR
KAITLYN O’BRIEN SALES REPRESENTATIVE
ELLEN MCQUEEN SALES ASSOCIATES
ARIANA DIVALENTINO, ALISON LIZZIO, SAM WANDER CIRCULATION ASSISTANT
BENJAMIN SWINEHART
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
KALEEL MUNROE
NEW YORK CITY CLEANS UP ITS ACT BY 2050 New York might be able to support itself solely with solar, hydro and wind power in less than 40 years, according to analysis from New York State researchers. — THE NEW YORK TIMES
ADVISING
CATCHING THE SUGAR RUSH Mayor Michael Bloomberg has been trying to ban large sugary drinks for months now, but his anti-soda stance has earned him many supporters. — HUFFINGTON POST
EDITORS-AT-LARGE
BROOKLYN RESIDENTS SPEAK OUT ABOUT AFTERMATH OF RIOT After 16-year-old Kimani Gray was shot and killed by police officers in East Flatbush on Saturday, a vigil for the deceased youth turned violent. Residents of this Brooklyn neighborhood have expressed frustration at the destruction it has caused. — NEWS ONE
GOT AN EVENT? EMAIL US AT AGENDA@NYUNEWS.COM OR TWEET US @NYUNEWS. GOT SOMETHING TO SHARE? EMAIL US AT TIPS@NYUNEWS.COM.
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
NANCI HEALY EDITORIAL ADVISER
KEITH LEIGHTY MAXIMILÍANO DURÓN, JAEWON KANG, FRANCIS POON, MERYLL PREPOSI, AMANDA RANDONE, EMILY YANG About WSN: Washington Square News (ISSN 15499389) is the student newspaper of New York University. WSN is published Monday through Thursday during NYU’s academic year, except for university holidays, vacations and exam periods. Corrections: WSN is committed to accurate reporting. When we make errors, we do our best to correct them as quickly as possible. If you believe we have erred, contact managing editor Amy Zhang at managing@nyunews.com or at 212.998.4302.
NYUNEWS.COM
NYUNEWS.COM | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13, 2013 | WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS
Christine Quinn represents possible firsts in mayoral race By MICHAEL DOMANICO
When New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn announced her mayoral bid on Sunday, it became clear that New York City might make history — if elected, Quinn would be the first woman and openly gay mayor. According to a Quinnipiac University poll, Quinn is the current frontrunner with 37 percent of the Democratic vote. With rhetoric based on making New York City an affordable place to live for the middle class, the high-profile Quinn is basing her bid on a series of progressive bills she fought to pass during her time as speaker. “I’m about getting things done,” Quinn said in the video announcing her candidacy, posted to her official YouTube page on March 10. “I’m proud that as speaker,
VIA WIKIPEDIA.ORG
Christine Quinn announced her mayoral bid this week.
I’ve passed seven on-time, balanced budgets. I’ve kept firehouses open [and] prevented the layoff of 4,100 school teachers ... I’ve passed prevailing and living-wage laws.” As speaker, Quinn has repeatedly tackled the issue of education. She worked to make kindergarten mandatory throughout New York City, and she launched the Middle School Task Force, designed to improve New York City’s secondary education. Steinhardt education professor Pedro Noguera has had personal experience collaborating with Quinn. “I worked with Quinn while serving as the chair of the Middle School Task Force that she created,” Noguera said. “She is a dynamic and genuine leader.” Noguera also highlighted the speaker’s dedication to the plight of immigrants, which has included fighting against unnecessary deportations of immigrant workers. “Her concern for the rights of immigrants runs deep, and I believe that if she were the mayor she would work closely with immigrant rights advocacy groups to protect the rights of immigrants,” Noguera said. Quinn, now 46 years old and married to her partner Kim Catullo, was born in Glen Clove, N.Y. Before her position as speaker, Quinn ran the Housing Justice Campaign and was the head of the New York City Anti-Violence Project, an LGBT-oriented group that seeks to end violence and empower the gay community.
María Josefina Saldaña-Portillo, the director of gender and sexuality studies at NYU, stated that an openly gay mayor would modernize the city. “It will be wonderful to have an advocate for LGBTQ rights as mayor,” Saldaña-Portillo said. “We would be catching up with Mexico City, Quito and other global leaders that are at the forefront of efforts of insuring the health, safety and well-being of the LGBTQ community.” Steinhardt freshman Stella Boonshoft, who is studying gender and sexuality studies, acknowledged the barriers Quinn would face as the city’s first female and openly gay mayor. “I’m prepared for the extreme scrutiny she will face both locally and nationally,” Boonshoft said. “Not being straight, white and male is still very difficult in politics.” Still, CAS senior and politics major Issela Palacios was confident in Quinn’s chances of winning the November election. “Her efforts to prevent immigrants with no history of criminal activity from being handed over to [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] as well as her green initiatives are among the various platforms that have endeared her to many of the city’s residents,” Palacios said. Michael Domanico is a copy chief. Email him at mdomanico@nyunews.com.
Bloomberg’s teen pregnancy prevention campaign sparks controversy By GEORGIA DUDMAN Posters with pictures of crying babies have appeared in New York City subways as a part of a new campaign by Mayor Michael Bloomberg to reduce teen pregnancy. The posters bear controversial captions such as, “Honestly mom, chances are he won’t stay with you. What happens to me?” and, “I’m twice as likely not to graduate high school because you had me as a teen.” The campaign, which was unveiled at the beginning of March, is a collaborative effort by Bloomberg, Deputy Mayor Linda Gibbs and Human Resources Administration Commissioner Robert Doar. Other posters target teenage fathers, reading, “Dad, you’ll be paying to support me for the next 20 years.” The campaign also includes an interactive texting program and YouTube video featuring facts, games and quizzes concerning teenage pregnancy. Bloomberg said the goal of this initiative is to show that teenagers with no money, job or college degree are ill-equipped to raise
a child. Bloomberg’s previous programs to reduce teen pregnancy include requiring sexual education in public schools and allowing high school nurses to provide birth control. “This campaign makes very clear to young people that there’s a lot at stake when it comes to deciding to raise a child,” said Bloomberg in a press conference. “We’ve already seen important progress in our effort to help more teens delay pregnancy — teen pregnancy has steadily declined in New York City — but there is more work still to be done.” Teen pregnancy in New York City has declined by 27 percent in the past decade, although there are still more than 20,000 teen pregnancies annually. “Teens giving birth before they are ready to provide emotional and financial support is not a good way to raise children,” said HRA commissioner Doar in the campaign’s press release. “We cannot dictate how people live their lives, and sometimes even the best plans don’t work out, but we must encourage respon-
sibility and send the right message, especially to young people.” Planned Parenthood has fought back against the PSA. The organization prefers a judgment-free approach in helping and advising young, parents-to-be. “The latest New York City ad campaign creates stigma, hostility and negative public opinions about teen pregnancy and parenthood rather than offering alternative aspirations for young people,” said Haydee Morales, vice president of education and training at Planned Parenthood of New York City, in a press release. Steinhardt junior Emily Senkowsky, a member of the NYU chapter of the Newman Catholic Fellowship, shared her opinion on the matter. “If the government is interested in running these kinds of ads, they should also run ads that provide helpful information for pregnant teens: hotlines to call, places to go,” she said. Georgia Dudman is a contributing writer. Email her at cstate@nyunews.com.
3
CONFIDENCE continued from PG. 1
In midst of no-confidence vote, faculty discuss governance issues
mendations and contribute to the selection for that position. However, Martin Lipton, chair of the Board of Trustees, explained that part of the hiring process involved creating a committee consulting faculty, deans, students and alumni, who ended up supporting the decision to hire Sexton. Another major concern that the proposal addresses is the lack of fiscal transparency. “Obviously there are expenses that need to be paid for by individual schools,” said Hammack. However, Hammack says that the concern among faculty is how the administration decides how much to tax the individual schools and on what basis. While the Steinhardt faculty cannot predict what actions this discussion will lead to, Cohen said the faculty should not “zero-in” on Sexton. “To me, the issue is beyond just one individual. It’s the whole style of governance that needs to become more responsive,” he said. Hammack added that the administration has shown that it is listening to the concerns of the faculty.
“It’s well to keep in mind that the Faculty of Arts and Science doesn’t speak for the university as a whole,” Hammack said. Meanwhile, other schools have not made public any discussion of their dissatisfaction with the administration. Chair of the Stern Faculty Council, professor Vasant Dhar, said the faculty of the Stern School of Business was satisfied with their representation on university issues. “The Stern Faculty Council has found our administration to be responsive to Stern and university-wide issues we have raised,” Dhar said. LSP professor Louis Pataki and chair of the LS Steering Committee said the administration has ultimate responsibility in decision-making. “The question of a no-confidence vote in the NYU president has not been raised or suggested in any Liberal Studies faculty governance body,” Pataki said. “We need to have trust in our president and trustees to act in the best interest of the university.” Nicole Brown is investigative editor. Email her at nbrown@nyunews.com.
VITA provides financial consulting for students By KEVIN BURNS
For those struggling to prepare their tax returns, the Stern School of Business’ IRS-certified Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program is looking to help free of charge. Managed by the finance, accounting and information systems honor society Beta Alpha Psi, VITA provides free tax help to individuals with an income of $50,000 or below. Xindi Xu, a Stern student and VITA volunteer, helps VITA clients by guiding them through the tax preparation process. “VITA is an important group because it reaches out to all different types of people in need, whether they are students, teachers or other types of faculty members,” Xu said. Stern senior David H. Nam, a VITA site coordinator, said VITA is even helpful for those who know how to prepare their taxes. “Most individuals who prepare their tax returns individually tend to not realize that they are eligible for tax credits that will result in a greater tax refund,” Nam said. Stern professor of accounting Alex Dontoh agreed that VITA can be an instrumental tool in helping individuals make tax law work to their advantage. “The goal of the program is to ensure that these low-income individuals and families are aware of the various tax deductions and tax credits they are entitled under IRS provisions, and take full advantage of them,” Dontoh said.
“Most low-income individuals and families are entitled to the earned income tax credits but often do not take advantage of them because they don’t know of their existence.” Dontoh said VITA also aimed to educate individuals and families on how to create wealth through building assets. VITA volunteers are students trained and certified by VITA. Experience among members ranges from no previous tax experience to members who have participated in VITA for several years. This year, VITA has over 50 volunteers. Nam emphasized how VITA offers volunteers with an avenue to apply class knowledge in the real world. “This [experience] provides a greater leeway for students to become highly marketable in a competitive job market,” Nam said. The VITA table is located in the lobby of the lower concourse level of Tisch Hall, Monday through Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., until April 15. Tax returns take roughly a half-hour to complete. Those who are planning on taking advantage of VITA’s services should bring as much of the following as available: a state-issued photo ID, a personal W2, a Social Security card and their tax return from last year. Kevin Burns is a deputy university editor. Email him at kburns@nyunews.com.
4
WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13, 2013 | NYUNEWS.COM
ARTS BRYCE continued from PG. 1
Tisch alum returns to discuss foray into short film telling and explore narratives that we typically wouldn’t explore,” she said. Project Imagin8ion continues to grow, becoming more inclusive and allowing for more collaborations, something Howard finds inspiring. This year, all of the photos are online, allowing individuals to use them to make their own short films. In the fall, a film festival will be held to showcase the five best submissions chosen by Howard and her father. In addition to Project Imagin8ion, the Golden Globe-nominated actress continues to enhance her directing skills, admitting she fantasizes about directing her own feature one day. Howard currently has a short film with Sony and Lifetime that will air in the spring, as well as a music video for MTV with the band M83. Howard emphasized the importance of finding collaborators and a creative team, encouraging students to be ambitious and become involved in the projects of other students.
“People feel it’s a distraction from schoolwork, but that’s the whole reason to go,” she said. “You may not partner up with these people for the rest of your life, but you will come out of school with creative plans and know people to help make your ambitions a reality.” Education remains important to Howard, who still takes classes to continue hers. She recalls papers that were due after she’d given birth. “There’s no benefit to stop pursuing more of an education. It doesn’t need to be for credit or to gain the approval of others. It’s to create an infrastructure for yourself so that you can continue to aggressively test your ideas,” she said. On her return to NYU, the actress called it “fantastic.” “It’s one of the things in my life that my heart yearns to return to,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to go back.” Marissa Elliot Little is a contributing writer. Email her at film@nyunews.com.
Classic Stage Company breathes life into Sondheim’s ‘Passion’ By OLIVIA GEORGE
To call the expansive repertoire of Stephen Sondheim impressive would be the understatement of the year. A legend in the theater world, he has proven himself a master of psychological musical theater time and time again with works as diverse as “Sweeney Todd” and “Into the Woods.” However, his little-performed play “Passion” arguably surpasses them all, running the gamut of human emotions in just 90 minutes. The Classic Stage Company’s intimate production more than does justice to the dark and emotional piece. A meditation on the meaning of love, which expertly avoids the melodrama this premise suggests, “Passion” tells the story of Fosca (Judy Kuhn), the unlovely invalid living at a military outpost where her cousin is the colonel. The handsome Giorgio (Ryan Silverman) is transferred there from Milan, where he leaves behind a lover with a beautiful face and a husband. The small kindness he shows Fosca
upon his arrival quickly propels her into obsession, which leads to his repulsion, and a destructive dance begins for both of them. Fosca comes through most powerfully in Sondheim’s lyrics. One of the most poignant moments in the show comes during the song “I Wish I Could Forget You,” as Kuhn leans forward earnestly in her chair to insist, “That doesn’t mean I love you.” The desperation of the music is brilliantly punctuated with James Lapine’s quick-witted dialogue. Normally, recognizing the quality of the book in a musical could mean pointing out a shortcoming in the songs, but in this case, it is a testament to the skill of Lapine, a longtime Sondheim collaborator (“Into the Woods,” “Sunday in the Park with George”). John Doyle directs with a shrewd and delicate touch in this bare-bones production, leaving the space to be filled with the actors’ monumental performances. Kuhn, best known for her Tony-nominated turn as the original Broadway Cosette in “Les Misérables” comes into her own with this tra-gic role. She embod-
ies Fosca wholly and passionately. Silverman rises to the challenge with formidability, embracing every flaw and complication of Giorgio without apology. Together, the pair provides one of the standout performances of the season. “Passion” is playing now through April 14 at the Classic Stage Company, located at 136 E. 13th St. Olivia George is theater and books editor. Email her at ogeorge@nyunews.com.
COURTESY OF CLASSIC STATE COMPANY
Judy Kuhn and Ryan Silverman share a complicated relationship.
NYUNEWS.COM | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13, 2013 | WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS
5
EDITED BY JOSH JOHNSON ARTS@NYUNEWS.COM
Bowie ushers in music’s ‘Next Day’
‘Spring Breakers’ lacks empathy, substance
By J.R. HAMMERER
Harmony Korine has spent so much time building up his image as a troublemaker that he hasn’t bothered to make any films worth the trouble of seeing. “Gummo” and “Julien Donkey-Boy” are both collections of intentionally shocking sketches, but despite sporadically arresting imagery, they serve little purpose beyond brain dead exploitation. The trouble is that they pose as radical, experimental films when the most thought they encourage is mean-spirited condescension toward their unusual characters. That lack of empathy wouldn’t be such a problem if the movies themselves weren’t so irritating. “Spring Breakers” is Korine’s mainstream bid, but that doesn’t mean his latest endeavor is any better than his others. Sometimes the film is interesting, sometimes it’s striking, but, more often, “Breakers” is the worst kind of bad movie — cheap, posturing and vainglorious. It bends over backwards to feign profundity and then claims irony to protect itself from the unintentional laughs. Much has been made of the lead foursome of college girls being played by young stars Selena Gomez, Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Benson and Rachel Korine. They definitely play more adult parts than they usually do, if being an
ny
un
adult only means being promiscuous. In their first scene, Hudgens and Benson exchange notes in class discussing their desire to be promiscuous. The girls are leeringly sexualized, with the only exception being Gomez, who plays a religious girl. Why she would even be friends with the others is a mystery, but that doesn’t matter — their bikini colors are the only true way to differentiate between the characters. The closest “Breakers” has to an actual character is the girls’ eventual benefactor, rapper and crime lord Alien (James Franco), who is a weird hybrid of Scarface and Vanilla Ice. Alien is an unapologetically campy creation who lacks the rest of the movie’s pomposity. Franco, a good actor when he tries, sinks his teeth into both character and surrounding scenery without any instinct of self-preservation. His goofiness steals the movie. “Breakers” tries to be a morality tale for our times about four girls who get in way over their heads. But it fails to accomplish this as the girls are already doing drugs, stealing from restaurants and acting like unfulfilled nymphomaniacs. The girls keep saying they are miserable in college, but we barely see any misery. The Florida they travel to is what you’d expect — it’s full of beer and bacchanalian ex-
By BREEZY SMOAK
COURTESY OF MUSE PRODUCTIONS
cess, but on an unrealistically huge scale. This wouldn’t be a problem if “Breakers” didn’t aspire to anything more than trashy fun, but Korine continues to load on the self-importance. “Breakers” is shot and edited like a neon-drenched, emotionally stunted Terrence Malick movie, and Gomez, as narrator, calls spring break “the most spiritual place I’ve ever seen.” Going past the layers of dishonesty and pretension, “Breakers” is simply a dull and agonizing experience. This spring break, just stay home.
Former glam rocker David Bowie’s newest album could potentially be one of the best comebacks in musical history. In an era where popular opinion states every interesting musical icon has retired from the scene, Bowie delivers with “The Next Day.” The 14-track album revives the most influential sounds of “Space Oddity” and “Ziggy Stardust” and demonstrates that Bowie is still a major influence in shaping today’s pop music. Working with long-time producer Tony Visconti, Bowie sticks to his static sound and electric vocals on “The Next Day.” Although this icon has ditched the extravagant outfits, makeup and androgynous aesthetic, the songs are still recognizably Bowie. “The Stars (Are Out Tonight),” the second single on the album, is complemented by a music video reminiscent of the visuals for his classic track, “Heroes.” The eerie, short film-esque video stars Tilda Swinton
J.R. Hammerer is a staff writer. Email him at film@nyunews.com.
as Bowie’s husband. The video’s artistry displays a sleek modernity to it as it satirizes the life of superstars and media, and its effect on our everyday lives. Swinton and Bowie’s androgyny mesh together quite well on screen, and the song is one of the standout tracks on the album, perhaps even one of Bowie’s best. Tracks like “The Next Day” and “Valentine’s Day” sound as if they stepped out of the ’80s, and “Dirty Boys” features an interesting horn line reminiscent of The Clash. Bowie also attempts to incorporate a more experimental pop sound on “If You Can See Me.” Despite an underwhelming music video for the first single “Where Are We Now?” Bowie’s album proves to be an outstanding product from one of history’s most innovative musicians. Fortunately, the stars will always be aligned for this cultural icon and his artistic endeavors. Breezy Smoak is a contributing writer. Email her at music@nyunews.com.
COURTESY OF COLUMBIA RECORDS
Devendra Banhart expands musical repertoire on new album
ew
By PATRICK JAOJOCO
s.c
om
facebook.com/nyunews
twitter.com/nyunews nyunews.tumblr.com
Psychedelic folk darling Devendra Banhart’s new album, “Mala,” is a relaxing and lovely set of tunes to start off spring. The album’s title comes from a Serbian pet name for a lover, the inspiration of which is readily apparent throughout the album. In his new album, Banhart explores themes of love and life in a surprisingly broad range of styles, all while retaining his gentle folk vibes. The album begins with “Daniel,” a mellow waltz that easily lends itself to a dreamy Sunday morning. Over a humming chorus and ambling guitar melody, Banhart croons, “My love’s got a way / of fading away.” The song moves slowly over two chords and fits nicely into Banhart’s existing oeuvre, yet it refines his sound to a precise and minimalistic point. “Mi Negrita” continues with a similarly structured sweetness, albeit in Spanish. The Venezuelan songwriter
has mastered the Spanish love song, adding some ’60s synth effects to the flamenco-inspired guitars. Banhart’s experimentation is epitomized in “Your Fine Petting Duck,” a duet with his fiancé, Serbian photographer Ana Kras. The song begins like “Daniel,” with Kras’ slightly off-key vocals suitably fitting the deep dream state that is “Mala.” The charming melodies and ’50s pop-chord changes add to the overall dulcetness of the song. What is truly unexpected, though, is after a few verses and choruses, the song ends pensively only to return with bumbling house synths and a heavily produced funk-disco beat backing Banhart’s vocals sung in German. The change is entirely jarring yet surprisingly decent, and one must simply accept it as a Banhart quirk. The folk-turned-disco pop song is an experimental peak from which Banhart returns to his well rehearsed dream-folk, but well re-
hearsed is exactly what Banhart means to stray from with “Mala.” The weird and unexpected bits of funk and disco strewn about make the otherwise mellow collection of tracks compelling, exciting and fun — all qualities that define the musician himself. Patrick Jaojoco is a staff writer. Email him at music@nyunews.com.
COURTESY OF NONESUCH RECORDS
6
WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13, 2013 | NYUNEWS.COM
THE ARTS ISSUE
Interested in working for us? Come to our Sunday Pitch Meetings.
NEWS: 5 P.M. FEATURES: 6 P.M. ARTS: 6 P.M. SPORTS: 6:30 P.M. MULTIMEDIA: 7 P.M. OPINION: 7 P.M.
GO ON A JOURNEY
MARCH 14 The New York Times Syndication Sales Corporation THE NEW YORK TIMES CROSSWORD & DAILY SUDOKU 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 For Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 For Release Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Crossword Across 1 Espousing crime? 7 Custard need 10 Michigan college or its town 14 Baby attire with crotch snaps 15 Pistol PAC-ers? 16 Luau handouts 17 Respiratory woe 18 1/sec, in trig 19 Green sci. 20 Graduation requirement, perhaps 23 Some ’Vette roofs 24 “The Wiz” director 25 Org. that negotiates with G.M. 28 Matures 30 Athlete Jim whose Native American name was Wa-ThoHuk
ANSWER A P P E A L
G L O O M Y
N E R E I D
G I B E T B R A B E L T H E R I N Y E S
E A T D I S N E Y L A N D
32 High-pitched
cry from an ump? 36 Scarf down 37 Signs to heed 38 Cooked, as Swiss steak 40 Fiancée of Napoleon 42 Singer Eydie 43 ___ Lanka 44 Anastasia’s father was one 45 Hullabaloo 47 Island off the coast of Scotland 49 Napoleonic marshal Michel 50 Dance for two 52 Big shot 57 Result of not following through (of which there are four examples in this puzzle’s grid) 60 Part of 39-Down 62 “___ had it!”
63 “Für Elise” key 64 Sportscaster
Albert 65 Finalized 66 Model Bündchen 67 Portend 68 Shop window posting: Abbr. 69 Sonnet’s finish
Down
1 Toot one’s horn 2 Cartographer’s blowup 3 “I don’t ___ respect!” 4 “I saw ___ a-sailing …” 5 Brunch libation 6 Classic car datum 7 Coat, in a way 8 “I do” sayer 9 Pilot light, e.g. 10 Baldwin of “30 Rock” 11 Some college staff 12 See 55-Down 13 Nonverbal TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE communication syst. S S C A M A R C T I L S A B L U R 21 Seek mercy, say L Y A U T H O R I T Y 22 Guiding beliefs E M B A R G O 26 Sleep problem S T E R O I C A A S H H E M M A S 27 “The Pied Piper of Hamelin” N I P E A T H A R K river G E R L Y S P I C E 29 “I didn’t know R A G D O L L that!” S T A N A D A G E 31 Exclude O C S N A R E D 32 Toy you can “put S U S U A L R E S somebody’s eye O B E L L Y P R I Z E out” with E R A T L A B E L 33 Soap-on-___ D A N A Y E A R S (bath buy)
Edited by Will Shortz 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
14
10
21
23
24 28 33
34
35
38
30
40
46
57
26
27
54
55
56
31
41
43
44
47
48
51
58
61
25
37
39
50
13
19
29
42
49
12
22
36
45
11
16
18
20
60
9
15
17
32
8
No. 0206
52
53
59 62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
puzzle by peter a. collins
34 Last Celtic to
wear #33 35 Bride’s ride 39 1954-77 defense grp. 40 Lose tautness 41 Austrian “a” 43 Official seals 46 Jaunty in appearance
48 Societal
breakdown
51 “Over my dead
body!”
53 Out of kilter 54 I.Q. test
pioneer
55 With 12-Down,
classic Neapolitan tune
56 Army Ranger’s
topper
58 All-night bash 59 Threadbare
threads
60 U.N. figure:
Abbr.
61 Saint, in Rio
For answers, call 1-900-285-5656, $1.49 a minute; or, with a credit card, 1-800-814-5554. Annual subscriptions are available for the best of Sunday crosswords from the last 50 years: 1-888-7-ACROSS. AT&T users: Text NYTX to 386 to download puzzles, or visit nytimes.com/mobilexword for more information. Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 2,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year). Share tips: nytimes.com/wordplay. Crosswords for young solvers: nytimes.com/learning/xwords.
NYUNEWS.COM | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13, 2013 | WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS
OPINION
EDITED BY SAMEER JAYWANT OPINION@NYUNEWS.COM
UNIVERSITY STAFF EDITORIAL
NYU should trust Sexton, university progress By SAMEER JAYWANT
Confidence is the belief that one can count on someone or something. It encapsulates a feeling of trust, and it is generally reserved for the resolute and dedicated individuals in our lives. It implies the possibility of failure, as it relies on a certain measure of faith in someone. It is an acknowledgment of the validity of external judgment. And it is unquestionably what I have in NYU President John Sexton. It is difficult to make this case without trivializing the concerns that are currently, and rightfully, the subject of intense debate. The process of achieving growth is, and should be, a contentious one. NYU 2031 is not an ideal expansion plan — many individuals stand to lose their homes, and the NYU gentrification of Greenwich Village is certainly unnerving. Most alarming is the undisclosed cost of the expansion and the possibility that it will be paid for by tuition increases — the expenditure concerns are all the more pertinent now given the expected tightening of NYU’s research and financial aid allowances thanks to political ineptitude in Washington, D.C. over sequestration cuts. But whatever the discontent over the specifics
of the 2031 plan, NYU is currently unsustainable in its physical capacity, and throwing the baby out with the bathwater is a shortsighted and petulant pseudo-solution. But, the nature of our disapproval or approval of many NYU policies derives from our unique positions and experiences during our time here. The opportunity to chair the International Affairs Committee of our Student Senators Council has given me substantial insight into the functionality of the Global Network University. The scale of our international web is astonishing — and its unprecedented success at nearly all levels of implementation is even more incredible. In its entirety, the GNU is self-sustaining and incurs no additional costs beyond what is paid for by tuition and fundraising, with the latter contributing more than $300 million. The system generates a surplus for NYU, which is not pocketed by the university but reinvested in our Washington Square campus. By no means is the system perfect, and my role is to translate student feedback into tangible improvements by the administration, which has consistently shown the desire to put aside bureaucracy to improve our global sites. It is easy for dissenters to criticize the vague concept of some-
thing they know nothing about, but it takes a measured approach and a willingness to examine facts to accurately assess the implications of the GNU. We are not a perfect institution. We have substantial flaws that must be addressed, including pervasive and unsustainable student debt, funding concerns for our expansion plan, a lack of faculty in the highest echelons of university leadership and a corporate mentality amplified by enormous severance payouts to star officials. But I find no comfort in the absolute lack of outreach to students by the faculty spearheading this vote. All we are witnessing is a selfinterested power grab that continues to denigrate and disregard the voice of those the university is built to serve — its students. We are selling ourselves short if all we do is passively complain, become disillusioned and naively hope our problems will vanish by replacing the visionary who has elevated our university to the incredible level where it currently stands. Be constructive. Speak up — I am confident he will listen. Sameer Jaywant is opinion editor. Email him at sjaywant@nyunews.com.
FINANCIAL POLICY
Payouts to administrators unethical, unfair By EDWARD RADZIVILOVSKIY
Last week, The New York Times reported a story that shocked many students and NYU faculty members. The article revealed that the NYU administration gives away lavish parting bonuses to its administrative staff after they leave the institution. In response to the growing uproar, Martin S. Dorph, NYU’s CFO, defended the administration’s decision in a university-wide email. However, Dorph’s point, “We do not give gifts — we honor employment agreements,” is a distinction without a difference. In other words, a gift versus a gift stipulated in a contract is one and the same. The distinction is only relevant in a profit-driven company where greed is the motivating factor. Bonuses should be given to people who are doing amazing work, but should NYU President John Sexton be getting an $800,000 pension every year after he leaves on top of a $1.5 million salary? Jack Lew’s numbers are even more outrageous. The New York Times recently did a separate profile on Jack Lew, reporting that on
SUBMITTING TO
7
top of an $800,000 annual salary, Lew also received “mortgages of roughly $1.5 million through the school as a prerequisite — $440,000 of which was forgiven by the university over time.” The payouts are unnecessary and unethical. NYU’s counterargument is that these bonuses are market-driven, helping the university raise money. However, I find something dangerously disturbing about bringing marketization into the university ethos. NYU is a nonprofit, yet it is operating as if it were a Wall Street investment bank. Thus, I would like to propose a provision to the NYU administration. How about inserting a clawback provision into future contracts to recuperate funds from those executives who leave NYU with unethically exorbitant severance packages? A clawback provision is only saying you’re going to recieve that provision if you do perform. It is true that Lew and other administrators may have performed well. However, since NYU is not an investment bank and is a recipient of federal funding, there is a case to be made that such
compensation is altogether unethical and inappropriate in this context of nonprofit institutions of higher learning. Indeed in the case of Lew, we can even say there is a possibility of criminality since the “sweetheart” deal he negotiated between Citibank and NYU amounts to a kickback scheme, whereby NYU sends its students to borrow money from Citi (which gets its loan money from the Federal Reserve) and Citi in turn “kicks back” a percentage of the loan amount to NYU. The clawback I propose be a legallydriven effort to recuperate the money already paid out to Lew and others like him, even if it happened to be stipulated in his contract. In other words, there should be a mechanism for addressing this impropriety, rather than the glib and cynical dismissal of Dorph that such payment was justified by the sheer fact of its having been contractual. Edward Radzivilovskiy is a deputy opinion editor. Email him at eradzivilovskiy@nyunews.com.
University must keep focus on main campus
With NYU President John Sexton’s 2031 plans now in question, NYU should focus its fundraising on increasing financial aid instead of expanding its campus. Global expansion is an interesting idea in theory. But in recent years, NYU has focused most of its fundraising and resources on creating a global university while neglecting other crucial aspects of NYU. Sexton has advocated a number of policies that have turned NYU into a primarily for-profit corporation. NYU under Sexton has made a choice to pursue revenue instead of focusing on the quality of its education and financial aid for students. In recent years NYU has followed the mentality that it needs to expand its student body and real estate in order to remain a top-tier university. However, does a powerful brand name imply a high quality education? Certainly NYU is establishing a radical new paradigm, something it calls the Global Network University. We now have a global site on every single continent except Antarctica. But the relationship between the brand name and the quality of education can be misleading. Presumably, the goal of the GNU plan is to develop connections we provide our professors to economically developing nations like the United Arab Emirates and China, and in turn, their governments furnish lavish campuses for our students. Perhaps in 30 years, this will be a great help — China and the UAE will have highly developed academic systems and NYU will be present to take advantage. Or perhaps studying abroad will become much easier for NYU students. Maybe they will all speak two languages and have spent a year abroad somewhere halfway across the globe. This is a textbook economic investment. But if NYU, which is listed as a nonprofit, narrows its focus and functions more like a for-profit business, is it not at least possible that this will result in a decrease in the quality of its education? After all, such developments take up a good deal of our resources in the short run. Today, our great professors are hopping back and forth between New York and Abu Dhabi, teaching classes over Skype and spreading themselves thin over the globe. Shouldn’t they be spending more time here with us at our main campus?
Email the WSN Editorial Board at editboard@nyunews.com. EDITORIAL BOARD: Sameer Jaywant (Chair), Raquel Woodruff (Co–Chair), Edward Radzivilovskiy (Co–Chair), Nickhil Sethi, Matt Luo, Nina Golshan, Ian Mark, Jess Littman, Marcelo Cicconet
Send mail to: 838 Broadway, Fifth Floor New York, N.Y. 10003 or email: opinion@nyunews.com WSN welcomes letters to the editor, opinion pieces and articles relevant to the NYU community, or in response to articles. Letters should be less than 450 words. All submissions must be typed or emailed and must include the author’s name, address and phone number. Members of the NYU community must include a year and school or job title.
WSN does not print unsigned letters or editorials. WSN reserves the right to reject any submission and edit accepted submissions in any and all ways. With the exception of the staff editorial, opinions expressed on the editorial pages are not necessarily those of WSN, and our publication of opinions is not an endorsement of them.
8
NYUNEWS.COM | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13, 2013 | WASHINGTON SQUARE NEWS
DINING
5
P TO
EDITED BY ANGEL CHANG DINING@NYUNEWS.COM
Try your luck at the city’s top taverns By DEBORAH LUBANGA
Few places outside of Dublin can rival the St. Patrick’s Day enthusiasm in New York City. Check out the top five city spots where anyone can be Irish for a day.
1
2
3
4
5 1–2: VIA YELP.COM COURTESY OF PARLOUR VIA FACEBOOK.COM VIA FLICKR.COM
Deborah Lubanga is a contributing writer. Email her at dining@nyunews.com.
LANGAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR With its calming low lights and corner jukebox, Langan’s has a perfect midtown pub atmosphere. Sample one of Langan’s traditional Irish dishes like potato and leek soup ($7) or the bangers and mash ($16). Complete your meal with one of their imported Irish beers like the magner cider ($9), which is made from apples grown in Clonmel, Ireland. 150 W. 47th St. CONNOLLY’S PUB AND RESTAURANT At Connolly’s, start with the shepherd’s pie ($17), which is served with fluffy mashed potatoes and creamy gravy. Afterward, indulge your sweet tooth with a slice of Bailey’s Irish Cream cheesecake ($6), which is not only infused with the taste of Irish whiskey but is also topped with Bailey’s chocolate mousse. If you dine at the Times Square location, you can also enjoy live music. 121 W. 45th St. THE PARLOUR Get a feel for genuine Irish hospitality at this uptown pub. The Parlour has traditional Irish Guinness on tap ($5.75) and also serves delights including onion soup gratinee ($7.50) and ice cream ($8). Even the coffee ($8) can be spiked with a splash of Irish whiskey. Venture downstairs, where you will find a room with dart boards and a pool table, which create a pseudo-frat house vibe. Stick around until 10 p.m. when the karaoke starts. 250 W. 86th St. WILLIAM BARNACLE TAVERN This hole-in-the-wall tavern, a more intimate setting than other bars, carries an air of mystery. As you sip a pint of the Irish red ale Smithwick ($6), listen to the bartender describe how the building used to be a 1920s speakeasy filled with hidden tunnels and mafia conspiracies. 80 St. Marks Place THE LUCK OF THE IRISH NEW YORK CITY PUB CRAWL Take advantage of the city’s bar scene during the annual St. Patrick’s Day pub crawl. After paying the $10 registration fee either online or at one of the participating venues, you will receive an official wristband that gives you exclusive access to the best offers in the city. Before 9 p.m. you can get 10-ounce domestic draft beers for $1, domestic bottled beer for $2, mixed drinks for $3 and Irish whiskey for $4. With over 200 bars participating, you will never run out of options, but remember to drink responsibly.
Gramercy welcomes Taverna’s authentic Greek cuisine By ALEX CASS
Gramercy’s Lyric Diner is no more, but there’s little reason to fret. In its place, as of Feb. 18, the same owners bring us Taverna, a fine yet affordable restaurant serving delicious Greek cuisine with refreshing authenticity. From the tasty ingredients — many of which are imported straight from Greece — to the friendly, prompt and mostly Greek wait staff, Taverna can best be described as a truly ethnic Greek experience. Manager George Theodosiou describes Taverna as “a little more ethnic compared to other Greek restaurants in the city.” “We’re a good 20 to 30 percent cheaper price wise,” he said. Inside Taverna you’ll find simple yet elegant table settings, a professional and pleasant staff, and quaint Mediterranean touches, all before you glance at the menu. Every dish is uniquely and freshly crafted, from the avgolemono ($7), a traditional egg-lemon soup, to Horiatiki ($14), a classic Greek salad with chunky vegetables and Taverna’s signature vinaigrette. Theodosiou said the moussaka ($14 for the lunch portion) is a traditional specialty at Taverna made with “layers of potato, eggplant and ground
CHUCK KUAN FOR WSN
Taverna’s moussaka recipe represents Greek tradition.
CHUCK KUAN FOR WSN
Solomos, a plate with grilled salmon and vegetables, is a favorite plate for fans of fresh Mediterranean food. beef, with béchamel [a French sauce made of flour and eggs] and melted Greek cheese.” He explained that the secret recipe comes straight from the kitchen of the head chef ’s grandmother. Although Taverna’s predecessor, Lyric Diner, was loved by many, Theodosiou explained that after 17 years the owners decided it was time to try something different. And although Taverna is vastly different from Lyric Diner in terms of look, feel and menu selection, the owners are still striving to provide quality dishes at reasonable prices. And not all of the past is gone. The exterior of the building — the side facing 22nd Street — still maintains the look of Lyric Diner, sign and all. “It’s a landmark,” said Theodosiou. “It touches people in the area.” Theodosiou says that there are high hopes for Taverna’s reception among New York City diners, especially in Gramercy, a neighborhood not typically known for its abundance of noteworthy restaurants. Particularly, he explained that former customers “come back to the see previous Lyric Diner ... and they’re very surprised. And they like the changes.” Jessica Laderman and Kassandra Carrion, juniors in the College of Arts and Science, both
agreed that Taverna was not only within college students’ budgets but also delicious and fun. Carrion loved the Solomos ($17), a grilled fillet of salmon with marinated, cooked vegetables. “This is such a simple dish, but the way they cooked it is really what made it pop,” she said. “The service was fantastic,” Laderman said. “Our waiter was very knowledgeable and friendly and willing to help us because none of us had eaten Greek food before. And the prices were definitely reasonable.” Taverna will be offering delivery services in two weeks through the websites Seamless and Delivery.com, as well as introducing a new brunch menu. Taverna is located at 283 Third Ave. It opens at 11:30 a.m. daily. Alex Cass is a contributing writer. Email her at dining@nyunews.com.
STILL HUNGRY? Visit nyunews.com to get a second helping of our dining coverage. Check out the top city restaurants that will make any night out at the theater complete, and the best dishes to celebrate National Flour Month with.
nyunews.com nyunews.tumblr.com twitter.com/nyunews facebook.com/nyunews