The Blue & Gray Press

THE

BLUE &GRAY

THE UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON STUDENT NEWSPAPER

March 23, 2017

VOLUME 90 | ISSUE 19

PRESS

SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE

1922

Financial problems no longer threaten riding program

UMW Relations

Budget proposal rattles students COLE MASAITIS Staff Writer

On March 16, 2017, President Donald Trump’s new budget proposal, which he has been working on with congress for the upcoming fiscal year, went public. According to the Washington Post article, “Trump Presidential Budget 2018 Proposal,” the Department of Veterans Affairs, Homeland Security and Defense Department are where most of governmental funds are being paid. That means that the budget cuts and eliminations deal with, really everything else.

The Washington Post also shared a list of 19 of the more well-known agen-

cies and organizations that will be affected by these cuts in their article, “The 19 Agencies That Trump’s Budget Would Kill Explained.” Some of these include the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, National Endowment for the Arts and for the Humanities, the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

NPR said, “This is the first time any president has proposed such a measure.”

They also talked about how last year the CPB received $445 million in federal funding in the previous fiscal year, and the NEA as well as NEH was funded with approximately $148 million for

•BUDGET CUTS | 10

UMW Smug Mug

TAYLOR OSTROM Staff Writer

The University of Mary Washington’s equestrian team has enjoyed riding horses at Hazelwild Farm for 40 years now. After initial talk of the Hazelwild program no longer being a part of UMW, it was made public that this relationship will continue in the future. Until

“Without government funded art, we wouldn’t have many things being taught in schools today or many of the things we’ve come to rely on such as clothing, music, video games, architecture, etc.”

-Drake Dragone

volved,” said UMW’s director of athletics Ken Tyler.

UMW’s equestrian team consists of 25 riders and throughout the year, they compete in eight shows along with a regional, zone and national championship. The team has been going strong this year with five first and second place wins at the regional show. They

“ [UMW] adjusted the PE course offerings and the cost of lessons. It was a good outcome for everyone involved.”

-Ken Tyler recently, financial problems threatened to eliminate Hazelwild Farm as UMW’s riding location. However, through communication and compromise, UMW’s athletic department and Hazelwild were able to come to an agreement.

“Primarily, [UMW] adjusted the PE course offerings and the cost of lessons.

It was a good outcome for everyone in-

will make their next appearance at the zone championship on April 8, at St. Andrew’s College. Now that it has been determined that the team will remain at Hazelwild, they have more opportunities in the future to advance their skills and take home more wins.

The equestrian team is relieved that

Flikr / Creative Commons

IN THIS

ISSUE

The BE-AT

PARKING PAINS

•HAZELWILD | 2

ALL- AMERICAN

7th annual Arab culture night in the UC today

Commuters paying for parking spots that aren’t there

Two UMW swimmers succeed at championships

LIFE | 6

VIEWPOINTS | 5

SPORTS | 12

NEWS

Editors: Ester Salguero & Lauren Taylor | blueandgray.news@gmail.com

Students feel BLUE & GRAY relief after UMW PRESS comes to MISSION agreement with Hazelwild THE

The Blue & Gray Press is published every Thursday in the University Apartments Clubhouse for our university community. The goal of The Blue & Gray Press is to produce high quality and accurate news in a manner compliant with the Society of Professional Journalists ethics code. In its coverage, The Blue & Gray Press strives to highlight the community of the University of Mary Washington, as well as deliver fair and accurate coverage on the issues important to our students.

EDITORS-AT-LARGE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Chris Markham

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Alex Spence

SECTION EDITORS NEWS Ester Salguero Lauren Taylor

VIEWPOINTS Tessa Cate

LIFE Kelly Emmrich

SPORTS Mikey Barnes

ONLINE Ethan Tobin

PHOTO Alex Sakes

Business Team Linda Fitzpatrick Janelle Behm

FACULTY ADVISOR Sushma Subramanian

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•HAZELWILD | 1 Hazelwild will remain their riding location, since it has been their sole riding location for close to two decades.

“The amount of land and amenities Hazelwild Farm offers to riders is also something that will not be found anywhere else in a four mile radius of the school.”

UMW Athletics / Equestrian Riding Program

Student Senate Beat Wednesday, March 15

-Katherine Lambert Junior member of the equestrian team Katherine Lambert talked about what Hazelwild has to offer UMW students, as well as the public of Fredericksburg. “The accessibility it gives to the students of UMW is something that will not be found anywhere else,” said Lambert, a biology member. “The amount of land and amenities Hazelwild Farm offers to riders is also something that will not be found anywhere else in a four mile radius of the school.”

The farm has two outdoor rings and one indoor ring, shows on the weekends and two barns fully stocked with horses, one for UMW students and another for boarders.

The farm sits on the Anna Elizabeth Morrison Estate, 600 acres worth of land. It is located on Harrison Road in Fredericksburg, 10 minutes from the University of Mary Washington.

The farm offers lessons ranging from beginner to advanced, as well as pony rides for children parties. Hazelwild is not only a place for riders, but for children looking to attend summer and day camp. Morrison, the original owner of the land and amenities was a strong believer of learning. She dedicated her life to teaching various skills to children whether it was learning to ride a horse, or memorizing the alphabet.

Morrison founded Hazelwild in 1951. At the time, she was a high school gym teacher at Spotsylvania County High School. Her first summer camp accommodated a mere 10 campers, who bunked in her own home on the estate.

These children became family to Morrison, and addressed her as “Aunt Sissy,” and the name has stuck ever since. Morrison passed in 1997 at the age of 95, but her legacy still resonates throughout the Hazelwild community.

Students are encouraged to seek employment and volunteering opportunities at Hazelwild and help others create a lifetime of memories as well. UMW hopes to remain at Hazelwild for many years to come.

The following motions have been passed by UMW Student Senate.

The passing of a motion does not mean that its terms are subject to happen. The motions will be reviewed by the Student Government Association Executive Cabinet, who will then vote on the proposed motions.

OLD BUSINESS

•

The Basketball cage and hoops being fixed will be paid for soon. The organization or student affairs willhave to pay for the new nets, yet Dean Rucker will try to get new nets for the alternative basketball court

MOTIONS PASSED IN SENATE

•

The motion for Buildings and Grounds to work with Eagle Landing to clean the stairways of the Eagle Landing parking garage and post permanent signs to ask students and visitors not to litter. Additionally, that trash cans and recycle bins be located in the stairways of the parking garage and that all trash bins in parking garage be routinely cleaned. The motion was passed.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Troy Piano will be inaugurated on April 21 and the ceremony will be held at George Washington Hall at 4:15 p.m. There will be a reception at 5 p.m. in the University Center.

Special Elections are open for SGA. The workshops for them are going to be held on March 27, 28 and 29 at 3:30 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. Students must attend workshops and then elections are the week after. There are several positions open that can be viewed on orgsync.

For more information, contact the president of Student Senate, Ethan Carter at : ecarter@mail.umw.edu

All motions were originated and passed in the Student Senate. They have not gone through approval by the Executive Cabinet.

DETAILS PROVIDED BY JAMIE MCGUIRE

Thursday, March 23, 2017

SPORTS

No need to fear, Nationals baseball is here

SEAN KINSLOW Staff Writer

It is that time of year once again, and the MLB Opening Day is right around the corner. The Washington Nationals get their 2017 season under way Monday, April 3 when they host National League Eastern Division rival Miami Marlins. The District is buzzing with high hopes for the Nationals in the 2017 season. Washington is coming off a year in which they won the NL East, but the roster looks a little different this year, leaving the Nats with a whole new set of obstacles to overcome.

To be successful the Nationals will try to overcome the loss of last year’s starting catcher, Wilson Ramos, who recently signed with Tampa Bay. Ramos was a valuable member of the Nats lineup. He had a big bat and handled the Nationals pitching staff well. Former Baltimore Oriole Matt Wieters will take over as the Nationals newest starting backstop.

Wieters has big shoes to fill but if he can perform close to his career averages than the Nationals will be in good a good place when it comes to catcher.

Another area of concern is the back end of the Nationals rotation. The loss of last year’s All-Star closer Mark Melancon who signed with San Francisco, will make it more difficult for the Nationals to hold on to leads in the 9th inning. Veterans Shawn Kelley, Blake Treinen and youngster Koda Glover will all get cracks at locking down the role of closer. Many experts believe that the team may need to trade for a closer at some point in the season if none of the three emerge as a dominant late-inning arm.

The Nationals’ starting rotation, if healthy, can be one of the best in Major League. There are reasons to believe the Nats’ rotation won’t live up to those expectations though. Max Scherzer and Stephen Strasburg, the team’s two best

Confederate flag causes protests at NCAA tournament HALEY SPENCER Staff Writer

On Sunday, March 19, hours before the second-round of NCAA games, a Confederate flag could be seen waving in the wind on the top level of the parking lot connected to the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina. The teams playing Sunday include the No. 1 seed University of North Carolina and the No. 8 seed University of Arkansas.

This incident occurs only two years after the fatal shooting committed by Dylann Roof at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina. Roof is a white supremacist who posted photographs of himself posing in front of a Confederate flag online prior to the shooting, as stated

by The New York Times. The state decided to take down the Confederate flag after this incident.

Although these cases are completely independent of each other, are sporting events, especially ones watched and attended by thousands of people, the place to exhibit one’s political views? One protester, Hunter Meadows, spoke with the Associated Press stating, “I didn’t feel it was right when the flag came down.

We wanted to show the NCAA that we’re still here.” Because the state took down the flag, some believe they are being underrepresented because the symbol of their ancestors’ fight has been taken away.

While this is a political issue in and of itself, the Confederate flag is both a symbol of white supremacy and is offensive to marginalized groups, especially African-Americans.

The Associated Press also reported that at least a dozen protestors showed up on Sunday exhibiting the Confederate flag.

While the host of the NCAA games has

recently changed to South Carolina, there are currently 1,123 colleges and universities, 98 conferences and 39 affiliated organizations, according to NCAA website. The NCAA is the leading organization for student-athletes and shares a commitment of core values among its athletes and coaches. So, while the NCAA maintains their attention to the students and its coaching staff, should they also be responsible for the fans as well?

One of the core values of the NCAA is, according to their website, “An inclusive culture that fosters equitable participation for student-athletes and career opportunities for coaches and administrators from diverse backgrounds.” One of the reasons that the host of the NCAA games was switched to South Carolina was due to North Carolina’s bathroom bill, which prohibited those of the LGBTQ+ community from using restrooms based on how they identify. Rather, they would have to use the restroom associated with the sex on their birth certificate. While this issue is extremely controversial, the NCAA has a tone of inclusivity and diversity among their values, therefore it would only make sense that they change the location of the host state.

While the NCAA has been involved in politics, many of these decisions are made as a result of their application of their core values to certain politicized decisions. The end result of any of these changes is to create a welcoming, diverse and equal atmosphere for both the athletes and coaches, but also the fans. Therefore, flying the Confederate flag at an event that is supposed to emulate a positive, diverse and fair atmosphere seems to override the NCAA’s values.

pitchers, are coming off of injuries and will need to be monitored. Joe Ross also went through an injury-plagued season last year. If any of these pitchers get hurt for an extended period of time, the Nats may be in trouble. The team traded away two of their top young arms, who would have been called upon to start if an injury occurred in Lucas Giolito and Reynaldo Lopez. The so-called “sixth” starter right now would likely be AJ Cole, who at this point in his career is not impressing anyone.

The biggest addition the Nationals made this offseason was the acquisition of Center Fielder Adam Eaton from the White Sox in exchange for Giolito and Lopez.

Eaton will either lead off or hit in the two hole for the Nationals. Eaton brings speed, a good on base percentage, and decent fielding prowess to the team. Eaton plays with a lot of energy and is likely to quickly become a fan favorite.

EMILY GROTTLE Staff Writer

The Nationals will likely be in a twoteam race for the NL East crown with the New York Mets. The Mets have a world class starting rotation with a decent bullpen and lineup to support it. The Nats will likely need to win at least 90 out of their 162 games in order to win the division and possibly more. In order to do this, Washington will need to successfully navigate the three areas of concern listed above. A bounce back year from Bryce Harper and Ryan Zimmerman could go a long way towards helping covering up those concerns.

Even with the concerns stated, the Nationals have an outstanding roster headlined

by MVP candidate Harper. This team has the talent to overcome at least one of those areas of concern. The Nationals will suffer if more than one of the concerns happen to become a lingering problem. It’s a good time to be a Nationals fans and Washingtonians should be optimistic headed into the 2017 season. Play Ball!

Club sport spotlight: Quidditch

On the surface, the magical game of Quidditch from J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series may seem impossible to play in real life. But here at the University of Mary Washington, it is. Students practice and compete in tournaments against other colleges like any other sport.

Played on the ground with a PVC pipe constantly between one’s legs, Quidditch is a full contact co-ed sport that is a mixture of rugby, handball, football and other sports, and is played on a hockey-rink sized field. The game involves five balls including the snitch, and seven players from each team competing to score the most points in the three hoops set up at either end of the field. The game is over when the person carrying the snitch is caught.

The UMW Quidditch team is just one of the many teams in Virginia, around the United States and worldwide. Although it is a young sport, first played in 2005, it has gathered huge popularity among colleges and universities. Senior political science major Zachary Truex is one of the captains of the team and plays as a chaser and a seeker. “I decided to join the team with the influence of friends and because I thought it would be fun,” said Truex, who is in his second year with the team. “This semester has been a rebuilding phase for us. We lost a lot of seniors after graduation, but I have confidence that the team will be built back up – there’s a lot of promise from the newer players.”

Freshman English major Katie Hartraft is one of those promising new players.

Playing as a chaser and keeper, this is her second semester playing for the team. “I was really excited when I found out that UMW had a Quidditch team,” Hartraft said. “I even looked up how to play the sport and read the rule book before I was

on the team.” Hartraft said she likes the intensity of the sport, “I wish more people knew about our team. It really is a lot more aggressive than many people think.”

The sport can be played with the physical intensity of a rugby game at the highest levels, which many who join the team were not originally aware of.

“I wasn’t expecting Quidditch to be so physically rigorous and serious,” said junior biology major David Reith, who has been playing since his freshman year.

Reith also plans on joining the Richmond Ravens, which is a community Quidditch team based out of Richmond, Virginia.

Senior Spanish major and Quidditch team captain Lauren Meyer plays for the Ravens right now. “Being on a community team is the next level up from a college team,” Meyer said. “After that is Major League Quidditch.”

With two tournaments coming up for the team, Meyer is dedicated to building the team up. “I’m focusing on really explaining the sport to the newer players,” she explains. So far this year, the team has been to one tournament where they beat the William & Mary team and came very close to beating Salisbury. “I love being a captain because I love this sport and it is the most inclusive community I’ve been a part of,” Meyer said. “The sport is diverse and gender inclusive, and as long as you are willing to put in the work you will excel.”

Even though the sport may seem different on the outside, the level of play is quite intense and has a growing popularity, and the UMW Quidditch team is a dedicated group of students who have a genuine love for the sport and a strong respect for their fellow teammates. So before you assume that Quidditch is only a fictional sport, take a look at your UMW team, and you will see the intense level of play and dedication.

Weekly Scoreboard softball:

March 22 @ Va. Wesleyan (L) UMW: 3 Va. Wesleyan: 7

women's LACROSSE

March 22 vs. Wesley (W) UMW: 17 Wesley: 1

baseball

softball:

Mach 22 vs. Southern Virginia (W) UMW: 6 CCNY: 1

men's LACROSSE

March 22 @ Wesley (L) UMW: 16 Wesley: 5

baseball

March 25 vs. Salisbury 1:00 P.M.

March 25 @ Marymount 3:00 P.M.

March 25 @ York (Pa.) 1:00 P.M.

March 25 vs. York (Pa.) 1:00 P.M.

women's LACROSSE

men's LACROSSE

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VIEWPOINTS

Hollywood’s glamorization of parenthood isn’t fooling millenials KAYLEIGH RONGEY Staff Writer

Millennials are constantly being blamed and labeled these days. It’s becoming impossible to surf through a news website without finding an article about what this generation is ruining, from the napkin industry (Business Insider) to the Olympics (Steve Burke, NBC Universal CEO).

Some of what the media has to say about millennials is in fact true, but these blanket statements never are and cannot be applied universally.

I was thinking about these labels last Valentine’s Day while I was watching the “Michael Bolton’s Big Sexy Valentine’s Day Special” on Netflix. I suddenly realized that the holiday special had a hidden message for current 18 to 25-year-olds.

The premise of the special, for those who haven’t seen it, is that Santa’s elves have already made too many toys for Christmas 2017. Because of this, he asks his good friend, pop and love ballad icon Michael Bolton, to host the sexiest Valentine’s Day special ever so people will have more children.

One of the “universal truths” about millennials that I personally relate to is that I never ever want to have kids. The vast majority of my friends and family feel the same way too, and for a variety of reasons.

Millennials’ absence of motivation to have children undoubtedly unnerves toy manufacturers, as a lack of children equals a lack of future consumers.

My own personal interest in marketing is why I was especially amused by the sub-

liminal message behind this special, and it got me thinking about other marketing strategies that have shared the same goal.

Recently, movies like “Bad Moms” have attempted to make motherhood sexy and exciting. This particular movie boasts the slogan “party like a mom,” suggesting that maternity does not mean the end of fraternity-style parties. Unfortunately, the new mother image has yet to be strong enough to combat years of unappealing representations of childrearing. A slew of 80s films such as “Look Who’s Talking,” show the sticky reality of motherhood. Diapers, breast-feeding, spit up and post-pregnancy

Participants in online culture cross the line JANELLE BEHM Staff Writer

In 2005, YouTube was introduced to the online community. This meant anyone had the power to create, post, share and comment on videos.

Since its launch 12 years ago, YouTube has given people an opportunity to create a following which, for some, eventually leads to a career.

Some of the top YouTubers now include Jenna Marbles, Shane Dawson, Miranda Sings and Tyler Oakley.

This platform reaches out to all ages.

With that being said, unfortunately sometimes those popular figures can go too far.

On Jan. 11, 2017, Pewdiepie, also known as Felix Kjellberg, a popular YouTube figure with over 53 million subscribers, made a video interacting with a website called Fiverr. Fiverr

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is an online marketplace that allows anyone to perform jobs or tasks and earn money starting at $5.

It is supposed to be a freelance website, however, others have taken a different route with it. In Kjellberg’s video that has been removed and demonetized from YouTube since then, he logged onto Fiverr and asked for two men who named themselves “The Funny Guys” to hold up a banner with an offensive message that said “death to all Jews.”

According to The Sun, this video was seen by approximately 6.6 million people. Along with the Fiverr video, Kjellberg released other videos following this one that included alternate anti-semitic jokes.

His lack of a filter and fearless de-

on myself. The current political climate, not to mention the literal climate, has given me pause when thinking about bringing a human being into the world. Hollywood can make motherhood look as appealing as it wants, but Michael Bolton won’t be able to count on me to help Santa fill his toy quota this year or any other year until I feel more confident about the world that said child would be raised in.

Other millennials agree according to an article published by The Rooster on Sept. 1, 2016. Author Isabelle Kohn’s No. 1 reason for why this generation doesn’t want to have kids is that “The world kinda sucks now.” She states, “Sometimes the decision to not be a parent is as simple as wanting to spare a child from having to live in a world of jerks and terrorism and disease...” I couldn’t agree more with this statement.

Noah Hinton / Unsplash There’s too much going wrong in the for Hollywood though, all of these unat- world to be sure that a child would turn out tractive aspects of motherhood may be the all right.

Whether it’s the lack of glamor, the fear deciding factor for some of my friends, but are not the reasons why I don’t plan on of improperly raising a child, or the lack of faith in society, there are plenty of viahaving children.

The days of “The American Dream,” 2.5 ble reasons to not want kids. Thanks to this children and a house in the suburbs, appear wide spread feeling, the toy industry can be to be going extinct for several reasons. For added to the list of things that millennials some, the unglamorous aspects of parent- are ruining. However, I’d urge my generation not to give into societal pressure and ing may be the leading cause.

For others, there’s a fear of being unfit or to be assured that whatever reason we, as incapable of properly raising a child. How- individuals, may have for wanting or not ever, my personal reasons for not reproduc- wanting children is entirely valid and the ing are based more on outside effects than choice is completely up to us. weight gain all make unpleasant appearances in these earlier films. Unfortunately

The most popular opinion was that meanor when talking about controversial topics does not seem to be an websites such as Buzzfeed took this issue for him. Consequently, Kjell- situation too far, but so did Pewdiepie berg lost his two partnerships with even though he explained in an apolDisney and YouTube Red, and it is ogy video that he was only joking.

Kjellberg explained how he has litunsure if he can get them back in the tle to no respect for the media in how future.

There have been many articles, pod- they portrayed him when they do not casts and videos created about this even know the real Felix Kjellberg.

His main point was to show how far stunt with varying opinions. Most of his colleagues believe that he did people will go for money, but did he not mean to make it offensive and go too far in the process?

While the Init was only a joke, howevternet, especially YouTube, is a er, there are “His main point was to perfect platform major news sites that have show how far people will to display your views and bea different go for money, but did he liefs, Pewdiepie opinion. should have Sources such go too far in the stepped back as the Wall process?” and remembered Street Journal who would be were strongly Janelle Behm opinionated watching since to the extent he has such a that he should not even create any- large following and is widely known. more. There were also videos made This goes for anyone who particiby Buzzfeed combining different pates in online culture. parts of Kjellberg’s videos together to make him appear to be supporting Hitler.

Thursday, March 23, 2017 Thursday, January 21, 2015

VIEWPOINTS

Editor: Tessa Cate | blueandgray.views@gmail.com

Students question worth of parking passes WILL BRORSEN Staff Writer

To ensure that I can make it to class on time I have to leave early everyday not because of traffic, but rather due to the lack of avail-

Double Drive, George Washington Hall lot, Simpson Library, the Anderson Center, Jefferson Hall, Framar House, Combs and Bush-

able parking at the University of Mary Washington. It is a great feeling when you snag the last parking spot in the lot, and likewise it’s not so great when you have to keep driving to the next lot.

Filled commuter lots cause competition for parking spaces, and even cause some students to stay on campus for hours between classes because they are afraid of losing their parking spot. Many students anxiously circle around lots hoping they can find a spot in time for their class.

The cost for student parking on the UMW campus is $225 per semester. When you get a pass you are informed of the few available lots that are actually available to students. At UMW most lots do not allow student parking at all such as inbound and outbound

nell Hall, UMW parking garage available top level, Monroe and the Marye to students. If you are going to the lot. Many of these parking spaces west side of the Campus such as remain unused while commuter Alvey, Goolrick or Jepson you are lots are full, a frustrating sight.

Commuter student Adam Brooks commented, “I love where the commuter spots are because as a science major I have most of my classes in Jepson right by the parking.” Both the UMW students utilize parking spots on College Avenue.

Alvey parking deck and the parking lot by Pizza in luck. However a walk from the Hut are the most used by commut- Alvey parking deck to a class in

er students, as College Avenue parking fills up quickly. These parking areas are on the same side of campus, and the largest lots

UMW / Parking Services

Combs takes around 20 minutes which means commuters have to really prepare for the worst if they want to go the other side of campus.

Having a parking pass at UMW does not guarantee a parking spot anywhere. There are no reserved spots for specific students. Commuter lots fill up and students have to park in areas risking a ticket so they can make it to class on time. This has led to some students disregarding the parking policies. “It’s just not worth it, I’d rather pay a fine and not buy the parking pass,” said UMW freshman Lucas Prunczik. “I’ve parked in the wrong lots for days at a time and I only once got a ticket.” Other students have boycotted the parking pass and simply park in College Heights and the neighboring community, often putting them much closer to their destination than the commuter lot, with no $225 per semester sticker. With full commuter parking lots becoming an expensive inconvenience, alternatives have become Redfin more appealing for many students.

Staff Ed: Students must focus on self care during remainder of semester When you leave home, graduate high school and head off to college, you are officially your own. You are on your own in a real world situation away from mom and dad. One must take care of themselves and do a number of the things they relied on their parents to help them through. Like doing your own laundry, wake yourself up for school and take care of your health.

Taking care of your own personal health often becomes the biggest task at hand.

One is challenged with eating well, drinking well and keeping their body in a healthy state. This task often becomes a lot harder than many expect. Mom and dad are not there to take your temperature,

or anyone there telling you when to go to sleep or when to take your medicine. They aren’t there to point out what to take when you aren’t feeling well, it is time to become dependent.

As the season changes, the weather is getting warmer. The pollen is out and allergies begin to act up. Tissue become not something just sitting on the dining room table, but a necessity. People must turn to medication like claritin or zyrtec to help combat the constant sneezing, sniffling and annoying runny nose. Cough medicine becomes the new gum.

Virginia weather is always confusing and never predictable and one must often play

the game of “what will the weather be like tomorrow?” Students are often negligent or choose to disregard what the weather is actually like and choose the more fashionable or comfortable wear. The spring, though offering its share of warmer days, in the early parts like mid to late March and early April, it is essential to always be ready with layered wear such as sweaters, pants and coats. In not doing so, numerous students find themselves fallen ill, therefore taking away from their social lives and class attendance.

This becomes abundantly clear as finals approach. Students eat unhealthy foods, do not sleep or make other unhealthy related

life choices to combat with the stress that is finals. It is important for a student to take into consideration the significance of eating healthy and getting the proper amount of sleep, especially when finals are right around the corner. Studying, is equally as important as being in a physically healthy state of mind. If you are sick or sleep deprived, accumulating knowledge or being properly prepared can surely be negatively influenced with poor health.

So, as the weather remains in its confusing state and finals creep up on us, make sure to dress appropriately for the weather, eat well, drink well and sleep well. Your body and grades will thank you.

By THE BLUE & GRAY PRESS EDITORIAL BOARD

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LIFE

Editor: Kelly Emmrich blueandgray.life@gmail.com

Students and professors prepare for 7th annual Arab Culture Night Arabic professor, Maysoon Al-Sayed Ahmad said, “I am most excited about lots of people coming to the event and It is almost time for the University of seeing the real image of Arab Culture, Mary Washington’s seventh annual Arab and also getting the chance to meet new Culture Night. The Arab Culture Club people, with everything that is happening sponsors this event yearly and offers a globally.” buffet hosted by Aladin’s Restaurant, a According to Amal Hajjami, sophoMiddle Eastern fashion show, traditional more chemistry major, president-elect of dabka dance, a wide array of cultural the Arab Culture Club, and Zila Huma showcases, henna, live music by MoJavaid, senior sociology major, former hammed Amir, a live camel and more. historian for the Arab Culture Club, Arab Culture Night spreads awareness preparation for the event begins about about Middle Eastern culture, and many one month prior to the event. Hajjami students have shown excitement in anticsaid that the event does take a lot of ipation for the event. planning, but is “very organized [because I’m excited that this has become a the club divides up responsibilities] part of the UMW community, and the before the event.”

UMW community can benefit from this The two agreed that the event is advocacy and awareness on campus,” well worth all the planning that goes said freshman religion major Mackenzie into it, and Hajjami said, “[the event is Poust. important because] it introduces people who aren’t usually familiar with [Arab] people/culture to new things, and really broadens people’s perspectives of multicultural backgrounds.”

Javaid also helped plan the event last year, making a video showcasing the campus climate surrounding Arab culture, and assisting with the fashion show. The fashion show this year will feature Alex Sakes/The Blue & Gray Press a Palestinian designDancer in colorful garments in Arab Culture night in 2016. er’s clothes, as well STEPHANIE COOK Staff Writer

as clothing from Jordan, Oman, Morocco and other Middle Eastern countries.

In addition to clothing from each country, each country also has a culture spotlight.

Rebecca Goforth, sophomore international affairs major, has been working on the poster for Syria, and will also be performing in the fashion show.

Goforth chose to work on the poster from Syria, “because [her] father is from Syria, so [she] feels connected to the culture.”

Alex Sakes/The Blue & Gray Press A huge part of Arab Dancers at the 6th Annual Arab Culture Night in 2016. culture and Arab Culture Nov. 23 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Chandler Night is the food. Arab Ballroom. Admission for the event is $1 Culture Night always features a buffet for students, and $3 for non-students. from Aladin’s Restaurant, and students All children under the age of three are seem to love it. Senior international admitted free of charge. affairs major, Seble Girmay said food is one of the elements of Arab Culture Night she is most excited about.

The newest addition to Arab Culture Night is the live camel. According to Hajjami, “[Arab Culture Club] was unsure about the camel at first due to cost and logistic reasons but SAE saw the clear benefits of the camel and approved it.” The wait for the camel to be approved reportedly took a long time, but the club agrees it was worth the wait.

The camel comes from Bar C Ranch, and students will be able to interact with the camel up close at Arab Culture Night.

University Relations Arab Culture Night will be Thursday,

Explore the outdoors in your own backyard

ANDREW ARENAS Staff Writer

Every season has its perks, but none of them compare to spring. After a very confusing winter, spring is finally here.

Although spring often comes with rain showers, there is a lot to enjoy as the cold temperatures begin to rise. One of my favorite things to do in the spring is go hiking, and luckily there is no shortage of hiking trails in Fredericksburg.

Rappahannock River Trail: This trail has a great mixture of paved and unpaved areas. It is an eight mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near the Fredericksburg area.

There are beautiful views of the river on the Southside of the bridge where its current is much stronger. Be aware that there are quite a few cyclists and the

Rappahannock River bridge.

6

trail can get narrow at times. This is an easy way to get far away from it all, without having the long journey to get there.

Motts Run Reservoir Trails: This is a 4.6 mile lightly trafficked looped trail that is located around Fredericksburg. It is for more experienced hikers and is specifically set up for running with many scenic areas and large hardwoods. It also offers a good variety of uphill and flatter areas with nice views of the lake. Generally, the noise level is low during the weekdays if you are looking for some peace and quiet. It has facilities such as vending machines, canoes and a fishing pier.

Heritage Trail and Canal Path Loop: With its nicely paved path, this 3.2-mile trail is lightly trafficked loop that is good for any hiking skill level. It is great for walking to enjoy the nice scenery and great history.

Be aware that this is a trail for bikers and runners that frequently use this trail.

Spotsylvania Courthouse Battlefield Trails Loop: If you are willing to stray a little far from campus, this 4.5-mile loop trail is easy to Rob Shenk/Flickr follow and offers a lot to see. This trail

Early morning on the Rappahannock River. offers a lot of history, as it was once the sight of the most vicious fighting during the Overland Campaign of 1864. There

Fredericksburg National Military Park.

Virginia Hill/Flickr

are open fields scattered throughout the park that allow hikers to see how the land was shaped by battle.

Something Original/Wikepedia

Thursday, March 23, 2017

LIFE

UMW Style: 90s, pastels and button-downs dominate campus fashion SAVARA GUNN Staff Writer

Photos by Savara Gunn

Ty Gaskins, Junior “My mood really inspires all my outfits. I actually see my outfits in my head and then I just grab what I see and put it on. I do trial and error, switching things and mixing them and being like ‘Well this can go with this, and this with this.’ I’m like 90s meets a little 80s and a little bit of today. So I’m my own person still and everyone knows they’re going to see something different everyday. My mom always told me to ‘dress to impress’.

So even if you’re sporty or whatever make it look good . I also played sports in school so you had to learn to look nice in your uniform. Kelani and Keke Palmer are two people I idolize. Keke Palmer especially is the definition of how I want to dress. I just feel like…I don’t know I’m not that risqué but she’s my ideal person.

And then Kelani is kind of like ‘girl meets boy’ which is kind of how I am sometimes, even down to my haircut.

I didn’t get confident about my style until about last year. I just kept seeing people wearing the same thing and I said ‘I’m tired of looking like everybody else. i want to dress how I want to dress’. I feel like I was born in the wrong era, so I love 90s music, 90s cartoons, everything. So I just started googling 90s looks and stuff and started dressing different at the end of 2015 and it really took off Spring and Summer 2016. My whole wardrobe is literally nothing but 90s and 80s.”

Gigi Acuna, Freshman "Honestly, I just decided to go with the outfit for a Judicial meeting I had today. My mind set was just to ‘dress as white as possible.’ I am obnoxiously proud of how I am and my ethnic background, but I don't trust this country enough to be naive. This outfit does reflect on that a ton though. I love fun sun dress and this necklace was a gift from my best friend who goes to college in another state. I try to go for effortless, approachable, and yet unattainable when getting ready."

Deanna Geraghty, Sophomore “I was wearing more comfortable clothes earlier, more ‘bumming’ it. I was wearing layers so I went home and changed because it got warmer, but then I thought it might get colder so I put a cardigan on. These shoes are just because I haven’t worn sandals in a while since it’s been cold, and this is one of my favorite necklaces so I just wear it a lot with anything.

I change my style up a lot, sometimes more casual, sometimes more dressy. It depends a lot on the weather and my mood. Sometimes I’m more preppy. Honestly its just a mix of things, I don’t think I really have a specific style.

I think I dress for myself more so than other people. I look approachable. I don’t wear anything controversial, so I don’t really look intimidating."

Sarah Hood-Recant, Freshman “This outfit was inspired by a Linguistics presentation and I had to look relatively nice for it. I picked this collared shirt because…I think it was the first one I saw? These pants are very comfortable and I can move in them and I thought black and white would be a good look for today.

My style in general is functioning and comfortable over fashionable so usually sweats or something like that. This shirt was actually a Christmas gift because I like all things Hot Topic. This was a really cool shirt for me because I guess you could say my style is androgynous so I really liked this shirt and said 'I’m gonna get this.’ It’s actually Fantastic Beasts themed."

Campus. Life. All. Week.

Thursday 3/23:

- Free Hot Cocoa, 3-5p.m. in the UC Living Room - Arab Culture Night 6-9p.m. in the Chandler Ballroom - Trivia Night 6-7p.m. in the Underground - HUSH Documentary 8:15-10p.m. in Lee 411

Friday 3/24:

- Junior Week Sand Art and Sundaes 2-4p.m. on Ball Circle - ARH’s Mr. UMW 6-10p.m. in Dodd Auditorium

Saturday 3/25:

- Good Neighbor Day (Register on OrgSync) - Wild and Scenic Film Festival 1-4p.m. in Dodd Auditorium - Junior Ring Ceremony 2-4p.m. in Jepson Alumni Center - Junior Formal 8-11p.m. in UC Chandler Ballroom - Decades Drag Show 7-10p.m. in the Digital Auditorium

Sunday 3/26:

- Guided Woodland Hikes 2p.m. at Gari Melchers Home and Studio - Jazz Festival 4p.m. in Dodd Auditorium

Reel Deals:

- John Wick Friday at 7p.m. and Saturday at 10p.m.

- Fantastic Beasts Friday at 10p.m. and Saturday at 7p.m.

7

Op Ed: The Definition of a ‘Snowflake’ GRANT RAYCROFT UMW Senior

“Snowflake” is a term I’ve noticed gaining traction in recent years. Not referring to the crystallized raindrops which remain ever elusive in Virginia, the phrase has made ground as an insult directed towards millennials. “Snowflake generation” made Collins Dictionary’s 10 words of the year which in their words are “the young adults of the 2010s, viewed as being less resilient and more prone to taking offence than previous generations.” It’s gained usage from Members of the European Parliament to Brent Easton Ellis and since it is dominantly used to refer to young adults of the 2010s, meaning me, I suppose I might as well have an opinion on the matter.

The use of “snowflake” as an insult originates from Chuck Palahniuk’s 1996 novel, Fight Club. The character Tyler Durden states: “You are not special. You are not a beautiful and unique snowflake. You are the same organic and decaying matter as everyone else.” For its context within the book, and I suppose spoilers, Durden’s

character is revealed to be the fictional hyper-sexual id of the novel’s unnamed narrator. Over the course of the book, Tyler drives the narrator to self-inflict himself with chemical burns, nearly commit suicide, and create a terrorist organization called Project Mayhem. This phrase is used when Durden addresses members of Project Mayhem and is part of the indoctrination process for breaking down of members’ senses of self-worth and individuality. Needless to say, I find the origins of the phrase questionable at best; however, let’s see the phrase in the wild.

According to The Guardian, the phrase was popularized within the United Kingdom by Claire Fox, director of the Institute of Ideas think tank. Fox uses the term when referring to thin-skinned and easily offended young people, typically college students who block controversial figures from speaking on campuses and demand “safe spaces” to not expose themselves to harmful ideas. Extrapolating from Fox’s

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definition, I feel it’s safe to say this form of snowflake is also politically centered around issues of social justice and civil rights.

This definition of snowflake falls in line with what sociologist Michael Kimmel describes as the “Goldilocks Dilemma.” In his book, Angry White Men, Kimmel defines the Goldilocks Dilemma as gendered grounds of exclusion wherein “the other [is] simply not appropriately masculine…

The masculinity of the other is like porridge-either “too hot” or “too cold,” but never “just right.”” As such, Fox’s definition of the snowflake is both hypo-masculine (too weak) due to their perceived sensitivity and thin-skin while also hyper-masculine (too strong) in their ability to effectively shut out differing opinions.

The double standard of Kimmel’s Goldilocks Dilemma is highlighted in the case of snowflakes where the action of protest is seen as excessive and intimidating while the motivations for doing so are pathetic

and feminizing. Alt-Right commentator Tomi Lahren summarizes this best with “I don’t protest, because I’m not a victim.”

In my opinion, I find the term snowflake to be horribly misrepresentative. It summarizes the expressed grievances of young millennials as little more than pampered whining. It is used to dismiss the anxieties of young people and expect them to accept the status quo regardless of how harmful it may be. This phenomenon isn’t even new.

The talking down to the youngest generation is an American tradition often best summarized with “Well, back in my day…”

Naturally this sentiment fails to account for a changing social landscape wherein the issues millennials speak about either did not exist or more commonly were failed to be addressed by older generations with the same vigor. Snowflake is a weak and tactless phrase, like many buzzwords, used to dismiss and undermine important social causes and the people who support them.

LIFE

UMW embraces the Wild and Scenic with national film festival wild and scenic world.”

Wild & Scenic is organized and produced

by SYRCL (the South Yuba River On Saturday, March 25, Dodd AuCitizens League), which was founded in ditorium will open its doors to students 1983 by grassroots activists determined and community members alike and invite to protect the South Yuba River from you to hike the Sierra Mountains, wade dams.

After a hard-pressed fight, SYRCL the Alaskan waters and bike to the coast won permanent protections for 39 miles for a sunset surf. of the South Yuba River under CaliforThe Wild & Scenic Film Festival nia’s Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. began in 2003 as a way to explore Today they continue to spread the environmental issues through beautimessage of activism and community, ful cinematography. This national film two principles that can change the world festival is screened all over the country when hand in hand. to draw together a community and urge UMW senior Maggie Magliato also environmental action. And this year, the believes in those two core principles and University of Mary Washington is one of began volunteering for Friends of the the many hosts.

Rappahannock, a non-profit advocacy The film festival has screened both group, in her freshman year of college. local and nationwide work in hopes of “I became more involved with FOR opening eyes to the wonders of our earth two years ago when I started volunteerand to remind us that we too are particiing weekly,” said Magliato, a double pants “in a global movement for a more major in biology and environmental science. “Last May I became a biology intern and have been ever since.”

FOR has taken an active role in the film festival for six consecutive years, however, for UMW this is the first year of involvement. Magliato has been appointed to social media coordinator for the event, and is excited and hopeful about a lasting partnership.

In addition to Magliato, Jeremy Larochelle, associate professor of Spanish also Wild & Scenic helped coordinate and orga-

ALEX SPENCE Associate Editor

nize the event.

“The great folks at FOR reached out to see if we could host [the film festival] here in Dodd Auditorium where they held a showing of the documentary ‘Rappahannock’ a few years back,” said Larochelle, who will also act as the emcee for the event. “I wanted to host this because FOR is a fantastic local non-profit that actively promotes conservation of our local treasure here, the Rappahannock River.”

The Wild & Scenic Film Festival hopes to instill a fiery passion to protect our natural world, much like that of FOR’s development coordinator and environmental educator, Nick Cadwallender.

Cadwallender, grew up on the south coast of Australia, which gave him a deep appreciation for the need to protect and restore natural landscape.

“My home was surrounded by lush green farmland of bald hills that had until the early part of last century been temperate rainforest,” Cadwallender said. “Today there are only pockets of that left.”

With passion and perseverance, Cadwallender and his wife were involved in purchasing and placing 300 acres of this rainforest in perpetual conservation, an admirable

display of activism that Wild & Scenic wholeheartedly promotes.

Throughout the festival, three categories of short films will be screened, including outdoor adventure, conservation and activism, all ranging from three to 18 minutes. The 13 short films will showcase national locations from Maryland, Alaska and North Carolina, to overseas settings such as Spain and Mexico.

“I believe we should all try our best to preserve our natural world,” Magliatosaid . “We only get one Earth and I want it to last for generations to come.”

UMW students are allowed admittance to the festival free of charge, as are high school students and students from other universities with the addition of their school ID. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. The screening will begin at 1 p.m. and conclude at 5 p.m. For more information please visit, www.riverfriends.org.

Wild & Scenic

ResHall Recipes: comfort food for stressed out students

said. “It sounds weird, but the intake of calories really comforts me.”

Ingredients: Even though it is officially spring, the -1 (8 ounce) box elbow macaroni temperatures are still low. It’s about a -1/4 cup butter month from finals, and Mary Washington -1/4 cup all-purpose flour students are in need of some comfort -1/2 teaspoon salt ground black pepfood. per to taste Here is a list of some foods that will -2 cups milk not only prepare you for your walk -2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese across campus, but will also bring you Directions: some comfort if you are feeling stressed Bring a large pot of lightly salted waabout assignments. ter to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni in the Macaroni and Cheese: boiling water, stirring occasionally until Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate cooked through but firm to the bite, eight comfort food. This simple yet delicious minutes. Drain. recipe only requires 30 minutes of your Melt butter in a saucepan over metime—and will also provide you with dium heat; stir in flour, salt, and pepper some savory leftovers. Biology major until smooth, about five minutes. Slowly Ella Danso loves making Macaroni and pour milk into butter-flour mixture while Cheese during the cold winter months. continuously stirring until mixture is “When I’m stressed Macaroni and smooth and bubbling, about five minutes.

Cheese not only fills up my stomach, Add Cheddar cheese to milk mixture and but also fills up my soul as well.” Danso stir until cheese is melted, two to four minutes.

Fold macaroni into cheese sauce until coated.

Apple Cobbler: When the cold weather is becoming unbearable, sometimes what you need is some mouthwatering apple cobbler.

Texasfoodgawker/Wikimedia Commons Political

ES HETHCOX Staff Writer

science major Khayla McGowan enjoys the comforts that this classic recipe brings her.

“It reminds me of my family's hometown, Houston, Texas.”

McGowan said.

“My great grandmother used to make apple pies all the time and after she died, my grandmother and grandfather started making cobblers, because they could use a bigger baking pan than a pie pan. Whenever the holidays rolled around and we were in town, they would have two cobblers waiting for us.

Whenever I feel down, I make a cobbler and call my grandparents and they cheer me up. And most of the time, they made a cobbler of their own as well.”

Ingredients: -3 large granny smith apples, peeled and sliced -1 cup all-purpose flour -1 cup sugar -1 teaspoon cinnamon -1 large egg -1⁄2 cup butter, melted Directions: Put apples in the bottom of a lightly greased 8x8 inch baking dish.

Mix flour, sugar, cinnamon and egg until it looks like coarse cornmeal.

Sprinkle topping over the apples.

Pour melted butter over the entire dish.

Bake 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Serve with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce.

Wikimedia Commons

Grilled Cheese: Everyone knows the basics of grilled cheese, but sometimes this traditional comfort food can be spiced up. Next time you go a grocery store, grab a different kind of cheese then American. Make a classic recipe new!

Ingredients: -4 slices white bread -3 tablespoons butter, divided -2 slices Cheddar cheese Directions: Preheat skillet over medium heat.

Generously butter one side of a slice of bread. Place bread butter-side-down onto skillet bottom and add one slice of cheese. Butter a second slice of bread on one side and place butter-side-up on top of sandwich. Grill until lightly browned and flip over; continue grilling until cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining two slices of bread, butter and slice of cheese.

Hopefully these quick recipes will provide you some comfort during this last cold front. Keep these recipes in mind as you wait for spring weather to make an appearance.

9

NEWS

POLICE BEAT MEAGHAN MCINTYRE Assistant News Editor

Vandalism Between Sunday, March 12 and Wednesday, March. 15 between 5 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., vandalism of a window occurred at Seacobeck Hall.

The case is pending.

On Thursday, March 16, around 1 p.m., an incident of graffiti was reported from the Hamlet House. The case is pending.

On Friday, March 17, at 5 p.m., a sign was graffitied at Parking lot number 2. The case is pending.

Cuts put a dent on funds for public broadcasting entities •BUDGET CUTS | 1 both agencies, which compared to the $4 trillion federal budget, is not a lot.

To further push this point, president and CEO of the CPB released a statement saying, “There is no viable substitute for federal funding that ensures Americans have universal access to public media’s education and informal programming services,” and that “public media is one of America’s best investments, costing each citizen $1.35 per year.” These funds go towards major public broadcasting organizations such as PBS and NPR, but many local stations will be more affected because these cuts affect a majority of their funds.

Published on the Current, the CPB, NEA and NEH, budgets would eliminate their federal funding, rather than simply cutting from them. The Current stated that “Butler is optimistic that funding for public broadcasting will

survive as it has in past budget battles.”

Butler said, “I don’t think this budget will get very far, and I don’t think Congress will follow the president’s lead with respect to his spending priorities.”

This is only the first time a president has proposed budget cuts to these agencies, and it has been proposed before by previous members of Congress.

American culture and our spirit of curiosity and creativity.”

Drake Dragone, sophomore music major, felt that the defunding was taking away from departments that already do not have enough money. “The NEA produces around $700 billion of income for the government annually, which is more than construction and transportation,” Dragone said. “Also, without government funded art, we wouldn’t have many things being taught in schools today or many of the things we’ve come to rely on such as clothing, music, video games, architecture, etc.”

Levi Manuel, junior music major said, “We miss out on expression. We miss out on individualism. Kids won’t get to learn of the great benefits that music has to offer: improved mood and sleep, decreased stress and depression, increased verbal skills, increased coordination.”

The NEA provides great economic support for both artists as well as areas ranging from well-to-do, to those with poor economies. CPB allows for news from as many angles as possible, and sides of the story to reach the public.

“Kids won’t get to learn of the great benefits that music has to offer: improved mood and sleep, decreased stress and depression, increased verbal skills, increased coordination.”

-Drake Dragone The Huffington Post shared “The CPB, NEA and NEH combined only account for 0.02 percent of the federal budget.” As published by Alternative Press they released a statement by Neil Portnow, the President and CEO of the Recording Academy. Portnow said, “Love of music and the arts brings us together, and celebrates the richness of

On Friday, March 17, at 11:30 p.m., vandalism on the building structure of the William St. Apartments occured. One administrative referral was given.

Possession On Wednesday, March 15 at 8 p.m., possession of marijuana occurred at Russell Hall. One student received an administrative referral.

Flikr / Creative Commons

Above: A part of the ArtWorkers exhibit from the George A. Spiva Center for the Arts in Joplin, Missouri. Financial support for ArtWorkers comes from the National Endowment for the Arts along with other organizations.

Rape On Thursday, March 16 at an unknown time, a rape was reported from Eagle Landing. The case is pending.

Film Fest: Student Access Free with ID This festival showcases environmental action and adventure in beautiful but threatened places around the world.

Friends of the Rappahannock’s 6th annual film festival will be shown Saturday, March 25 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m in UMW’s Dodd Auditorium Press Release from Friends of the Rappahannock

The information was compiled with assistance from UMW Police Manager James DeLoatch and Fredericksburg Police Department Public Information Officer Sarah Kirkpatrick.

The South Yuba River Citizens League / Facebook Page

10

Thursday, March 23, 2017

NEWS

Talent show keeps audience on their toes participating in the acts

JASMINE TURNER Staff Writer

Alex Sakes / The Blue & Gray Press

Alex Sakes / The Blue & Gray Press

Alec Mallman, assistant director of SAE and University Center coordinator, said “If you did not come to the show this year, come next year.” On Wednesday, March 15, Dodd filled up with supportive members of the Eagle community. Before the lights dimmed and the 12 performers took the stage, a couple of students commented in anticipation for a show that would match UMW’s 2016 Mary Wash’s Got Talent showcase.

Senior accounting major, Kadeem Gittens said he “was looking forward to seeing the crowd on their feet, going crazy with laughter, good vibes and a lot of school spirit.” Although the crowd may not have been quite as numerous as it was the previous year, there was surely enough crowd interaction with several of the performers.

Placing first, with a grand prize total of $500, Damon Dixon got the crowd to participate for his performance. He encouraged crowd members to sing along to hits such as Fake Love by Drake and Oui by Jeremiah as he arranged the mash-up on the spot as a part of his talent. Ashton Ledbetter also included the crowd in his act, by requesting that the audience yell out words for him to base his freestyle raps off of, chicken, money and chocolate were among the chosen words.

It seemed to be a theme, Jealous Audio also urged the crowd to participate in their performance. Jealous Audio is a duo from UMW’s very own One Note Stand, consisting of Joe Cheeks and Adam Newburger. A section of their performance included a skit that was directed to all of the ladies in the crowd, seducing them with various beatboxing

Alex Sakes / The Blue & Gray Press

skills, Justin Timberlake’s “Cry Me a River” and then blowing them away with Bruno Mars’ “That is What I Like” and a few dance moves on the side.

Mary Washington students were constantly leaving a surprising, positive and joyful impression at every given opportunity. “I was so impressed with everyone’s talent,” said assistant director of SAE Sandrine Sutphin after having participated on the judges’ panel for the show. “I thoroughly enjoyed judging, and it was a tough decision to make. I believe all of the students should have won.”

The showcase of talents Wednesday night invited students who were not only looking to support the performers but also to be positively influenced by the various talents performed. According to Danielle Howard, the inspiration was one of the reasons why she decided to return to the show again this year.

“Personally, for me, last year seeing Ray Celeste in all her glory made the night for me,” Howard said. “It is always nice to see students you look up to showcase more sides of themselves.”

The talent show also had a positive takeaway for those who performed. According to Damon Dixon, this was not his first time participating in the talent show. He placed third in the talent show last year.

“This has been a five-year process, and I have never placed first. I started performing in the 10th grade,” Dixon said. “I was relieved to win... After last year, I started to doubt my skills and that made me work harder.” Dixon took great consideration into what he was going to do this year. “In the past years, I’d only played piano and sang,” Dixon said. “This year I wanted to do something different.”

CORRECTIONS for THE Week PLEASE REPORT ANY MISTAKES SEEN IN THE BLUE & GRAY PRESS TO Chris Markham, blueandgray.eic@gmail.com or Sushma Subramanian, ssubrama@umw.edu In last week’s Staff Ed, the following corrections were made: •

The sentence, “[They] did not like having black people at their school or teams,” said Orsten in an interview with the Freelance Star, was incorrect. The last name of the former student is Orsted and the statement was published in her filings, not in an interview with the Free-Lance Star.

•

•

Orsted currently plays women’s basketball at DII Bowie State

In the article, it states that “Orsted was denied a spot on the UMW varsity team, despite being a standout basketball player in her high school” was listed as fact, however this is more accurately labeled at Orsted’s claim in her suit.

Thursday, March 23, 2017

11

SPORTS

Editor: Mikey Barnes | blueandgray.sports@gmail.com

UMW swimmers travel to National Championhips, earn All-American honors

NCAA

LAUREN CLOSS Staff Writer

Silence ensues in the seconds before the swimmers hit the water. Cheers erupt from the coaches and families that know the vast amount of work and training that has led up to this moment at the NCAA Division III Swimming Championships.

The crowd roars, the names of individual competitors sometimes cutting through the block of sound as the swimmers make their final flip, turn and focus all their energy on propelling themselves down the final stretch. Two such swimmers, seniors from the University of Mary Washington, experienced this event for the last time, although very successfully with both earning All-American honors.

Dallas Tarkenton and Anna Corley represented UMW at the championships in Shenandoah, Texas from March 15 to 17. They had to rank in the top 16 in the nation for an individual event in order to attend. Once there, they each competed in three events. Tarkenton placed 31st in the 200-yard individual medley, fourth in the 100-yard butterfly, and won the

consolation final in the 200-yard butterfly finishing ninth. Corley finished 13th in the 200-yard IM, 26th in the 400-yard IM, and 47th in the 100-yard freestyle.

“The meet was great,” Tarkenton said. “I really trained only fly this year in preparation for the meet so all my butterfly times were great. I was really happy with my 200-yard fly time and honestly it was as close to a perfect meet as one can get.”

His time of 1:47.62 is his personal best for the event and a school record.

Tarkenton had a highly successful meet as well, earning All-American honors for the second straight year.

“My favorite race to swim is the 200 fly just because it’s so fun to race people in a longer event that’s grueling on the body and fun to win,” Tarkenton said.

Corley’s favorite event is the 200 IM. “It is also my best event,” she said. “I love being able to change strokes during the race. It keeps it interesting.”

“I couldn’t be happier with my results,” Corley said. “All I could think about this season was making it back to the meet and then once there my ultimate goal was to make all American in my best event and

Sue Spencer / Perfect Shots

Sue Spencer / Perfect Shots

I did. The trip was so much fun meeting swimmers and competing at that level is a whole new world. Such an amazing feeling.”

It can often be difficult for athletes to balance training with their social and academic lives because of the massive amount of work required to be successful in competition.

“The road to get there is a lot of dedication, hard work and sacrifices,” Corley said. “It’s about deciding what is most important to you and if reaching that level is truly a goal and then doing what you have to do to get there. Like not staying up late on weekends drinking and going out with friends and managing time wisely to fit in work and school and swimming. At the time it’s hard and tiring and grinding but once you reach your goal it’s all worth it.”

Tarkenton explained how there are extra challenges associated with swimming due to the events being individual.

“I struggled in the beginning with the mentality behind the sport, since it’s such a pressure-filled sport.” Tarkenton said.

“Every little detail or stroke or flip turn can make or break a race and since it’s

only you that can be really challenging to deal with. The physical stuff is always going to be tough or else you’re doing it wrong but the mental side is the one that takes the most time and effort to master.”

Despite the difficulties, the general consensus is that the feeling that comes from meeting goals and succeeding at championships is well worth the effort.

“The championship is one of the coolest and most humbling experiences because of all the people who have the same dedication to your craft as you do and watching all the success around you is invigorating,” Tarkenton said.

The long swim season spans from pre-season training in October until the National Championships in March, making collegiate swimming one of the most rigorous in the NCAA. “It’s an incredibly tough sport and the time commitment everyone on the team makes is almost crazy to anyone trying to fulfill a full college experience but all of them would give you the same answer and say it’s the best thing about college,” Tarkenton said.

UMW student-athletes use faith to help them through sports SUSANNAH TOMBES Staff Writer

College creates many different forms of stress for students, but those that are more familiar with the stress tend to be student athletes. Emma Rakowski, a sophomore on the softball team, explains that one of the biggest struggles for herself as a student-athlete is the battle with identity.

She shares that it is very much geared to “what you do in the world, and that your worth is in your ability” and that “you can be an internal mess inside, even though on the outside you could be the best.” The overwhelming feelings of her struggle with identity would bubble to the surface before her week even began and took over.

Rakowski knew that something had to change and choosing her identity in Christ was the ultimate decision that she needed to make to find her strength. After finding a core group of friends in the Catholic Campus Ministry, Rakowski realized that the most important relationship she

Thursday, March 23, 2017

could have was the one she has with Jesus Christ. “When you have that, you have fulfillment. It is like the oil to the machine that makes the wheels turn,” she shares.

Instead of viewing herself based on her talents on the softball field and in the classroom, she began to constantly see herself as a “Daughter of God and knowing love by knowing that I am loved.”

Even though she finds life becoming busier by the second, she gives the time God has given her back to Him and has found true joy in her identity in Christ.

Daniel Forjan, a junior on the track team says that the time management is also his biggest struggle as a student-athlete and that specifically “being able to schedule classes without interfering with practice, missing class for competitions and the high time demand from sports,” are all factors that make being a student athlete a challenge. When asked if his walk with Christ is made more difficult because of

the demand of school and sport, he shares “that if anything it eases the burden a bit.

The relationship that I try to have with God comes before everything else, and the knowledge that everything that I do I do with and for a Him makes it a little easier for me to deal with it.” When Forjan was a sophomore in high school he became involved in a Christian group called Young Life. “The leader, Landon Epperly really helped to open my eyes to what God was all about and how much he really meant to me. Ever since I’ve tried to put Him first in school, athletics, pretty much everything in life and every accomplishment I’ve had I accredit to Him.” Forjan’s friend Epperly had such an impact on him that he is also impacting those around him. Ripken Smith, a sophomore on the track team gives credit to Forjan for influencing him to become more faithful.

“He helps me by reminding me to pray at meals and to read scripture more often,”

Smith said.

It is clear that community plays an important role in developing the faith of these student-athletes, and drives them to do well in the sport, but more importantly to be faithful to God. Kristina Currie, a senior on the swim team shared her experience with faith. “One of the things that I love about UMW athletics is how rooted we are in the community and how active we are in our community service.

During my freshman year I was inspired by the positive impact that I was able to have on others just by sharing a few hours of my time. That is when I really feel like I realized who I was as a person away from athletics. Swimming has been an amazing gift in my life that has opened the doors to so many opportunities, but in the grand scheme of life what matters isn’t how many medals or ribbons I won while swimming, it is how I was able to use myself and my faith to help others.”

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