The Vermont Cynic Issue 21 Spring 2012

C YNIC THE VERMONT

PREDATOR BEHIND ZEDS BARS DEAD

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FACEBOOK AN ‘EASY TARGET’ FOR ROBBERS

CONCERT REVIEW

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MARCH MADNESS

Will Andreyak’s picks

The University of Vermont’s independent voice since 1883 w w w . v e r m o n t c y n i c . c o m

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T h u r s d a y , M a r c h 1 5 , 2 0 1 2 – Vo l u m e 1 2 8 I s s u e 2 1 | B u r l i n g t o n , Ve r m o n t

Cats keep on dancing Remembering Avi

By Devin Karambelas Assistant News Editor

PHOTO COURTESY OF UVM ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS

Men’s basketball prepares for their NCAA Championship game against Stoneybrook, March 10.

Men’s basketball defeats Lamar 71-59

By Julia Dwyer Assistant Sports Editor

The UVM pep band played “Sweet Caroline” during the celebration after the Catamounts stayed alive with a crucial win.

Behind a game-high 18 points by first-year Four McGlynn, the Catamounts solidified a 71-59 First Four win over Lamar University to advance past the first round of the NCAA tournament for the second time in program history.

Sophomore Brian Voelkel tore down a team-high 12 rebounds, adding seven assists to aid in the Cats’ victory.

V e r m o n t turned the ball over only once in the second half, five times in the entire game, while holding La-

mar to a 33.3 shooting percentage.

“They were a solid defensive team,” admitted Lamar’s leading scorer, senior M i k e James.

First-year Lamar coach Pat Knight had high hopes at the start of the matchup, but was never able to keep up with the strong and momentous Vermont.

“I was hoping to get o f f

PHOTO COURTESY OF UVM ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS

Men’s basketball coach John Becker holds the net at the NCAA championship tournament game against Stoneybrook, March 10.

NEWS 1-5 Newman’s cash awarded

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FEATURE 6 Young Senator with big ambition

to a big lead, and maybe sustain it,” he said. “The game was over at the end of the first half. They are a hard team to come back on.”

While the UVM pep band played in celebration, the TruTV announcer coined a Four-inspired term for his recent domination: “Mglynnsanity.”

“He’s not a normal freshman,” said head coach John Becker of McGlynn. “He’s got a lot of confidence … He’s a special player.”

As a first-year coach, Becker has a lot to mark as achievements already and his success is only starting.

“This is one for all the UVM players and coaches that got us where we are today,” he added.

The Cats journey up to this point was a long one, as they faced perhaps an even larger challenge in the America East championship game at Stony Brook.

They held the Seawolves to a 29.3 shooting percentage, the lowest in America East Championship game history, to pull a 51-43 upset over the No. 1 seeded Stony Brook.

McGlynn, the America East Rookie of the Year, was again the highest scorer, racking up 14 points.

The Most Outstanding Player of the game, Voelkel, added game-highs of 15 rebounds and seven assists to advance Vermont into the NCAA tournament for the fifth time in school history.

“It’s a surreal feeling right now,” said Becker. “I couldn’t be more proud of our guys.”

The Cats will now travel to Greensboro, N.C. on March 16 to face the No. 1 seeded North Carolina in the second round of the NCAA tournament.

— LIFE 7 — ARTS 8-9 — Mild winter produces The ‘Woman in Black’ early sap tapping movie review

What should have been an enjoyable return from spring break was marred by tragedy Monday morning.

Sophomore Abraham “Avi” Kurganoff passed away in his Davis dorm room March 12.

An email sent to the UVM Community from Tom Gustafson, vice president of student and campus life, stated the cause of death as still undetermined, but no foul play was suspected.

No medical information had been released yet, but Kurganoff had been complaining of back pain following a recent snowboarding accident, said John Abbott, assistant director for outdoor programs.

Kurganoff had felt ill the day before he passed and had been transported to Fletcher Allen Hospital, Abbott said.

A social work major in the College of Education and Social Services, Kurganoff was a stu-

COURTESY OF M. JASIENOWSKI

Abraham Kurganov passed away in his dorm, March 10.

dent heavily invested in sharing his passion for the outdoors with others.

He was involved in several organizations such as the John Dewey House for Civic Engagement, Alternative Spring Break, the Kayak Club and Outing Club.

He had also recently begun See AVI on page 4

JAMIE LENT The Vermont Cynic

Mayor Miro Weinberger throws Mardi Gras beads to residents in Burlington, March 6. He was elected mayor, March 6.

Miro elected mayor

Democrat grabs 58 percent of vote

By Keegan Fairfield Senior Staff Writer Miro Weinberger was elected Burlington’s next mayor March 6.

With nearly 58 percent of the vote, Weinberger defeated Republican Kurt Wright and Independent Wanda Hines, who garnered 37 percent and five percent of the vote respectively.

This was Wright’s third unsuccessful mayoral bid, and he said it would be his last.

Weinberger will be the first

OPINION 10-11 Supporting KONY and inaccuracies

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DISTRACTIONS Cat Tales

Democrat to occupy City Hall in more than three decades.

After the victory was official, Weinberger was received at Nectar’s by a packed house of ecstatic supporters.

He took the stage to an uproarious crowd chanting, “Let’s go, Miro!” with his wife, daughter, parents and campaign staff standing close behind him.

Weinberger credited his victory to the more than 350 volunSee MIRO on page 2

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SPORTS 13-16 Vermont skiers win big

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NEWS

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

Lecture highlights human reaction to natural crises

Presenter spoke of volunteering post-disaster

By Amanda Wassel Cynic Correspondent No matter where disaster strikes, some communities turn the devastation into an opportunity to unite and rebuild.

Lane Perry, program manager of Frontiers Abroad, spoke of human resilience and community involvement in his visiting lecture Feb. 24 titled, “Shaken and Stirred (Into Action): Insights from an Epicenter of Human Spirit, Community Engagement, and Leadership.”

The presentation focused on the parallels between the volunteer services of university students in the aftermath of the 2010-2011 New Zealand earthquakes with 2011’s Tropical Storm Irene in Vermont.

Perry focused some of his presentation on the many people who needed healing after the death and destruction of the earthquakes and tropical storm.

“Service helps fill a hole in your heart, helps you heal,” Perry said.

On Sept. 4, 2010 a 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit Christchurch, New Zealand. University of Canterbury student Sam Johnson mobilized a Student Volunteer Army of 2,200 volunteers. The students were vital in the cleanup of 200,000 tons of hazardous silt bubbling up from the ground.

Beginning in December

2010, a Gap Filler project began to redesign spaces where the earthquake had critically hit, Perry said.

UC students designed and implemented features such as a giant chess set, book exchange, cycle-powered theater and Painted Piano Project to create community spaces where citizens could heal from the trauma of the earthquake.

“The connections between what I heard about the ‘leaders’ that emerged in the aftermath of Irene and what I saw personally in Christchurch with regard to leadership was very similar.”

Lane Perry Program manager of Frontiers Abroad However, the crisis had only begun.

On February 22, 2011, an aftershock of the first earthquake hit, resulting in 185 deaths and

the destruction of 500,000 buildings and homes.

Perry was a UC graduate student at the time and part of the mobilization movement of 9,000 student volunteers.

Perry focused his lecture on how the actions of students at UC are relevant to UVM and universities everywhere because their story encompasses the importance of student involvement in the community.

The Student Volunteer Army at UC was an extraordinary model that inspired similar mobilizations, like the UVM students who were engaged in the Tropical Storm Irene recovery process, Perry said.

“The connections between what I heard about the ‘leaders’ that emerged in the aftermath of Irene and what I saw personally in Christchurch with regard to leadership was very similar,” he said.

The universities where these disasters struck created courses respectively called Rebuilding Christchurch and Rebuilding Vermont, in which students could take learning to the practical level, Perry said.

Both natural disasters shook the communities involved, but also resulted in an outpouring of aid illustrating the big difference that even ordinary civilians and students can make in their community, Perry said.

DANIEL TYLER The Vermont Cynic

Director of the Office of Sustainability, Gioia Thompson, (left) and operating engineer Jim Genest speak about energy technologies in the central heating and cooling plant, March 14.

Thinking energy use

By Lindsey Waters Staff Writer A new study will lead to the construction of an even greener campus.

The Clean Energy Fund developed a study to discover which locations on campus can improve their renewable energy technologies, Office of Sustainability Director Gioia Thompson said.

The Comprehensive Campus Renewable Energy Feasibility study asked the question: Can campus-based renewable energy play a vital role in UVM’s progress toward carbon neutrality?

In addition to answering this question, the study will aid in future renewable energy planning at the University, the Office of Sustainability website stated.

“We are really lucky that we have so much expertise in Ver-

mont helping UVM with energy efficiency,” Thompson said.

The study started in February and will be completed by September of this year, according to the website.

As part of the Office of Sustainability, the Clean Energy Fund is designed to advance renewable energy research, education and infrastructure on campus, the website stated.

This study on renewable energy is one of many ideas that students came up with for the fund, Thompson said.

“Students actively participate in the generation of ideas and the review of ideas for the Clean Energy Fund,” she said.

Proposed ideas for Clean Energy Fund projects are currently being reviewed, and specific projects will be decided upon by mid-March, Thompson said.

Predator behind bars

By Becky Hayes News Editor Former UVM student Yetha Lumumba was convicted March 9 at Vermont Superior Court in Burlington for sexually assaulting a classmate.

Lumumba, 24, forced his victim to perform an oral sex act on the Waterfront in 2010.

Prosecutors argued that the woman feared for her safety if she did not comply, according to the Burlington Free Press.

Lumumba came to Burlington in 2004 from the Congo and now faces up to life in prison or deportation, the Free Press stated.

Records reveal that Lumumba had 72 run-ins with the police between 2005 and 2011, according to WCAX.com.

Although Lumumba was a

former student and the event occurred at a common downtown area, students said they were not very concerned about their own safety.

Sophomore Cassie Harnett remembers the death of a student in 2005 on Main Street and said situations have improved.

“Ever since then, police have really taken charge,” Harnett said. “I feel a lot safer.”

Sophomore Elizabeth Boden said she was glad the courts convicted Lumumba.

“It’s surprising,” Boden said.

“You never really think something like this would happen.”

Although happy Lumumba was behind bars, both Boden and sophomore Julia Chin said they felt the possibility of life sentence was harsh.

N EWS

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

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Thieves target students Burglaries almost double this past year

By Mat Degan Staff Writer A rash of recent burglaries – many targeting students – have local police and UVM officials on high alert.

The Burlington Police Department (BPD) responded to more than 400 burglaries last year alone, a significant increase from the 250 calls they normally receive per year, according to a report by the Burlington Free Press.

Local break-ins have doubled since the New Year with over 60 reported incidents, Burlington Police Deputy Chief Andi Higdee said.

“That’s a pretty substantial number,” Higdee said. “Since October we’ve made 18 arrests for burglary or possession of stolen property. We rely now on the courts to hold them responsible.

Though break-ins have occurred across the map and general patterns are hard to predict, some areas in Burlington are more likely to attract crooks, he said.

The highly student-populated “hill section” yields substantial foot traffic as students travel to and from the University, which provides a good opportunity for burglars to blend in, Higdee said.

“They target Union Street to the east, but keep in mind that it’s everywhere,” he said, adding that the high number of incidents is nothing new because this area has been a hotbed for break-ins ever since students started living off campus.

“There’s no doubt that students have been targeted during the streaks,” Higdee said.

“These crooks know when school break is, they know when apartments are empty. In most cases, these people have done it before and have criminal histories — they’re desperate.”

One reason for the rise in crime can be attributed to the rise of opiate use in Burlington and greater Vermont, which may compel addicts to burglarize homes for electronics, jewelry and other such valuables that can be quickly resold and flipped for cash, Higdee said.

Another driving factor in the elevated burglary numbers has been the unusually mild winter.

Traditionally a season marked by a decrease in call volume, this winter has proved just the opposite for the BPD. The warm weather is a convenience for enterprising crooks that are now able to stay out on the streets longer and are more mobile because there is no thick covering of snow to slow them up, Higdee said.

Gail Shampnois, director of student and community relations, runs workshops designed to aid students in their transition to off-campus living by providing tips on keeping safe in the community.

While an assessment of the safety of a prospective apartment may not be a top priority for some students, Shampnois said that it is important to evaluate a living arrangement on more than surface looks and monthly rent.

“It’s a good idea to drive back at night when looking at apartments,” Shampnois said. “How

does it feel? Look at the lighting.

If the locks are insufficient, ask the landlord for lock-chains.”

Shampnois reiterated that students were being targeted in the recent wave of burglaries, but said that it is important to always remain vigilant because students have long been a general target for any crook who wants fast access to electronic gadgets like computers, iPods, TVs and digital cameras.

“These crooks know when school break is, they know when apartments are empty.

In most cases, these people have done it before and have criminal histories they’re desperate.”

Andi Higdee Burlington Police Deputy Chief “I’d say it’s what the students have that is appealing to the burglars,” said Shampnois, adding that the lifestyle of a student can be a contributing factor in whether they become victims of burglary.

For Shampnois, UVM’s growing population – enrollment has increased by 3,000 students in the past 10 years – means that more people are living off-campus and are thus more susceptible to break-ins.

What Happened?

- Average # of Burglaries: 250 - Last year’s # of Burlgaries: 400

Why is it happening?

- Increase in opiate use - A milder winter

How to Prevent it: - Lock Doors - Secure Windows

She said she hopes the newly constructed Redstone Lofts will alleviate some of the student apartment sprawl in Burlington when they become available for lease next fall.

Shampnois partners with UVM police officer Sue Roberts, who is trained in crime prevention and assists students in de-

veloping strategies to combat break-ins beyond the basic locking of doors.

Some strategies Roberts suggests include installing deadbolts in place of the more basic doorknob locks, having good drapes that block visibility from the outside to prevent crooks from “window-shopping” and keeping an inventory of property serial numbers so the police are better equipped to investigate and eventually recover the stolen property.

Students with a tendency to leave their apartments looking “trashed” may also be at a greater risk for burglary, as street onlookers may assume that there is a lack of ownership pride and may be more comfortable breaking into the residence, Roberts said.

“When people take care of their place, the burglars know it,” Roberts said. “They look for easy targets.”

Roberts advised victims of theft to report the incidents and continue communicating with police by reporting suspicious events.

“A lot of people don’t tend to report it,” she said. “If they’re not reporting to the police, BPD doesn’t have the correct data and can’t help. Sometimes students just don’t want to deal with them.”

Though locking doors is fairly standard practice, making sure that apartment windows are secure is less obvious and was a hard lesson learned for senior Rachel Bakerian, a threeyear resident of Isham Street, whose apartment was broken into several years ago.

Burglars entered Bakerian’s ground floor apartment through access to her bedroom window, which was open when she returned. Her backpack and camera were stolen, along with her roommate’s computer and laundry quarters.

Though she filed a police report, none of the property was recovered nor were any of the burglars apprehended.

“Ever since then I have locked everything,” Bakerian said, now living in nearby South Duxbury, Vt. “We were totally being watched. They popped in when my roommate left for one hour.”

The BPD has dedicated resources to combat the recent spike in burglaries, including increased patrol presence, more communication with the court system and processing fingerprint evidence to link crimes to individuals.

Yet Deputy Chief Higdee was dismayed that the Department of Corrections and the courts aren’t holding up their weight, citing budget cuts as part of the reason.

He said that too often those involved in serious criminal offenses walk free in the community while on probation or pretrial conditions of release.

“The burglaries have started to slow down,” Higdee said.

“Hopefully the message has gotten out that we have devoted a lot of resources.

“We expect that the court system will hold up their end,” he said.

NATALIE WILLIAMS The Vermont Cynic

Professor Bryan Baliff in his Marsh Life Sciences lab, March 13.

Looking for blood

By Chris Scott Staff Writer A University professor began to unlock much of the mystery surrounding rare blood types in humans that could possibly endanger the carrier.

Dr. Bryan Ballif, assistant professor of biology, and his colleagues have discovered two new proteins on red blood cells that are responsible for the rare Langereis and Junior blood types, University Communications stated.

Only 30 of these proteins that contribute to basic blood types have been discovered. Ballif and his colleagues’ findings are the first in nearly a decade, according to University Communications.

Ballif’s research began in 2008 when one of his past collaborators, Dr. Lionel Arnaud, who works at the French National Institute of Blood Transfusion, contacted him about researching these rare blood groups.

“Given we didn’t know exactly what to expect when we went hunting for these proteins, anything novel was going to be a bit of surprise,” Ballif said.

Problems for those who carry the rare blood include difficulty in successful blood transfusions.

“More than 50,000 Japanese are thought to be Junior negative and may encounter blood transfusion problems or mother-fetus incompatibility,” Ballif said to University Communications.

The newly discovered proteins not only relate to those who carry a Langereis or Junior blood type, but may also promote research focused on discovering more effective chemotherapy treatments for cancer patients, he said.

“The transporters we identified can pump chemotherapy drugs out of cells,” Ballif said.

“One of the proteins in particular has been heavily studied in cancer given it can enable a cancer cell to become resistant to a drug simply by pumping the cancer drug out of the cancer cell.”

With these proteins that are

known to combat chemotherapy, Ballif hopes that the future of anti-cancer drugs will revolve around personalized medicine so that cancer patients will receive treatment based on their genetic or molecular makeup.

While conducting their research, Ballif and Arnaud also stumbled across a relationship between the rare blood proteins and its prevalence in other mammals.

“Given we didn’t know exactly what to expect when we went hunting for these proteins, anything novel was going to be a bit of a surprise.”

Dr. Bryan Ballif Assistant biology professor Arnaud noticed how difficult it was to purify samples of one of the newfound proteins from the rare human blood type and decided to test if other mammals had the protein.

After testing the blood of other mammals, Arnaud discovered that some expressed high levels of the protein, and cats had the highest levels of those he tested.

With the higher level samples from cats, Ballif and Arnaud were able to more effectively research one of the proteins at a University lab, he said.

After the research was published in the February issue of Nature Genetics, Ballif’s findings were featured prominently on various social media websites such as reddit.com.

“I have an immense amount of respect for anyone doing protein work in a mass spec... that is a level of diligence and patience I could never hope to achieve,” one user commented on reddit. com.

Even after their discovery, Ballif and his team are still moving forward with their search for more of these proteins — it is speculated that 10 to 15 more are left to uncover.

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NEWS

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

Jeffords wins gold for environmental design

Building joins eight other UVM structures that have received LEED certification

By Lauren Drasler Staff Writer UVM has out-greened itself once again.

James M. Jeffords Hall was the latest building on campus to receive Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certification, a title awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council.

Jeffords Hall joins five other buildings on campus with Gold Certification.

The building, which was completed in the summer of 2010, houses the departments of plant biology, and plant and soil science, University Communications stated.

Jeffords Hall’s construction cost $56 million dollars, and the building is more than 99,000 square feet, according to University Communications.

“I spent six years on the planning and design committee for Jeffords,” said Deborah Neher, chairperson of the plant and soil sciences department.

“I am proud that it made LEED Gold. I am also proud that UVM has LEED status goals for all new buildings.”

Neher said the exterior features of the building give plant and soil scientists a “sense of place.”

“The part of Jeffords that I am most proud of is the outdoor educational landscape including the edible gardens, arboretum and raised beds,” she said.

Despite UVM’s reputation as a green campus, Neher said she felt there is always room for improvement.

“Someday, I would like to see all organic wastes on campus being recycled through compost made at our University farm,” she said. “The compost could be distributed to gardens, farms and other landscape projects across the greater campus.”

Jeffords Hall was constructed using over 40 percent of products from Vermont and the regional area, according to a press release from Michelle Smith, green building coordinator of capital planning and management.

During construction, the building was projected to use 35.7 percent less energy and 49.9 percent less water than a conventionally designed laboratory building, a press release stated.

“Jeffords Hall was designed to be a high performing building from the beginning,” Smith said. “Achieving LEED Gold New Construction certification is a testament to the hours of strategic design work that the project team invested in the project.”

Smith said that with the Aiken Center renovation complete, Jeffords Hall and the Aiken Center collectively make up an area of over 400,000 square feet of LEED certified space.

“This is a great achievement

not just because of the certifications, but because it’s a statement to the investment and priority that the University has made into providing excellent facilities for the students,” she said.

Currently, UVM has nine buildings on campus that are LEED certified, and three projects are pending for certification.

In comparison, Champlain College has two LEED certified buildings, the University of Maine has eight and the University of New Hampshire has two, according to the Green Building Certification Institute’s website, Some students said they were impressed with the University’s efforts toward sustainability.

“I think most students and faculty approve of making UVM more environmentally friendly,” junior Jeremy Ebelt said. “If the University is going to build something it should be sustainable, efficient and modern.”

Though some students think the University could be even greener.

“I think UVM has done a lot to work toward being an environmentally minded campus, but there is always a lot that needs to be done,” sophomore Amanda Chin said. “For example, the roofs of the UHeights dorm complexes were designed to have solar panels and have been funded for their installa-

fact that

LEV MCCARTHY The Vermont Cynic

Students walk into James M. Jeffords Hall, March 12. Jeffords Hall has recently been awarded a LEED Gold Certification title. tion, but it has yet to happen.”

Chin said that she supports the University’s initiatives, but there is a delay in putting plans into action.

“This might come from the

AVI

Kurganoff remembered by community

...continued from page 1

JAMIE LENT The Vermont Cynic

Mayor Miro Weinberger speaks to residents on Church Street in downtown Burlington, March 6.

MAYOR MIRO ...continued from page 1 teers that joined his campaign, who made over 45,000 phone calls collectively since Jan. 1 — including 8,500 on Town Meeting Day — and also distributed over 28,000 pieces of campaign literature across the city.

“It’s only with this type of support that a political outsider with a funny name that no one knew how to pronounce can end up right here tonight,” he said from a podium adorned with his ubiquitous lawn sign.

Just around the corner at the Scuffer Steak and Ale House, Kurt Wright made his concession speech to a group of onlookers who appeared discouraged.

“We have run a good campaign; we ran a really positive campaign; I’m proud of the

Weinberger spends $109,873 on campaign campaign that we ran,” Wright told the crowd. “Unfortunately, it was not successful.”

“We knew this was a difficult race,” he said, citing Weinberger’s vast financial resources and his virtual political obscurity as tough obstacles for a “Republican in Burlington” to overcome.

This year’s race was unprecedented in many respects: it was the most expensive, voter turnout was higher than usual and support came from atypical places.

Fiscal expenditures in this race were unusually high, with Weinberger raising $109,873 and Wright bringing in $48,086, as of Feb. 27.

Voters turned out at a rate unseen in decades. In total, 10,100 people cast ballots, representing 39 percent of the

city’s active voters.

More than 2,100 absentee ballots were cast — also an unusually high number.

Even Vermont politicians from outside of the Queen City got involved in this year’s election.

Gov. Peter Shumlin, as well as Vermont’s national delegation — Rep. Peter Welch (DVt.), Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) — endorsed Weinberger and campaigned on his behalf.

Weinberger’s transition team is hard at work translating his campaign pledges into tangible policies.

He will replace Progressive Bob Kiss, who did not seek reelection, as mayor on April 2.

the school places importance on involving students to create the changes they want to see,” she said. “For me if this is true, the trade-off is worth it.”

his own wilderness therapy program with underprivileged Burlington youths, a project that he had started back in his native Illinois.

The outpouring of comments from friends and classmates indicate that Kurganoff was a student known for his wide smile, affability and especially his love for the wilderness.

“Avi was a one of a kind adventurer,” sophomore Hillary Laggis said. “He would come back from breaks with incredible stories about whitewater rafting, snowboarding and backpacking adventures.

“He experienced more in 20 years than most experience in a lifetime,” she said.

Senior Deborah Isen described Kurganoff as someone who strived to make a difference through service work.

“He had this incredible passion for improving people’s lives,” she said.

In the unusually warm weather March 12, students were seen outside and on the steps of Bailey/Howe Library crying and consoling each other.

That evening, people filled the Billings Lounge for a memorial service to “celebrate Avi” hosted by the Outing Club.

Abbott, who led the service, said it was “flat-out the worst day I’ve had at UVM.” Long periods of silence and sniffling were frequently interrupted by bouts of laughter as students shared memories of Kurganoff.

One student said Kurganoff had a way of finding beauty in what others may find boring,

a sentiment that seemed to be echoed in the stories told by other attendees.

During the service, students praised Kurganoff for his boldness, bravery and willingness to lead others.

“He experienced more in 20 years than most experience in a lifetime” Hillary Laggis sophomore As the UVM community deals with the loss of one of its own, those who knew Kurganoff have planned outdoor activities such as a kayak trip and sunset ski ride on Bolton Valley in his memory.

The University is currently planning a community gathering in remembrance of Kurganoff.

Students in need of additional support are encouraged to contact UVM’s Counseling and Psychiatry Services at (802) 656-3340, according to the University email.

In the wake of his death, some students like Laggis said that there was much to learn from Kurganoff’s “carpe diem” attitude in life.

“I know he is on top of the highest mountain right now, enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds him and looking down on us,” she said. “Let’s all take a moment to celebrate this incredible life.”

N EWS

Crime log

By Lauren Drasler Staff Writer

March 1, 2012 12:41 a.m.

A student was criminally charged with domestic assault and stalking against another student. The victim admitted that issues had been ongoing with the accused assailant after being interviewed by staff members at police services.

A case was put together and the accused person was criminally charged. The events occurred on-campus.

March 1, 2012 1:33 a.m.

A UVM police officer saw sparks and heard noises that were thought to be fireworks behind the Women’s Center. The officer walked to where he thought the noises were coming from and found two people hanging out while others were seen walking away. After confronting the two individuals, the officer determined that they had no involvement with the alleged fireworks.

March 2, 2012 10:22 p.m.

During a hall check by RAs, a bong and pipe were discovered in a dorm room in the Living/Learning Center C Building. The RAs informed police services of these discoveries, but police discovered the drug related items had been used for in-

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

5

cense and not illegal drug materials. Since this was not a drug violation, no citations or criminal charges were issued by police services.

March 6, 2012 8:47 a.m.

A van belonging to the custodial staff was damaged in the Mercy Parking lot.

The right side cargo door was dented. There was no paint transfer, which would indicate a car accident. It is still not known how the damage occurred or who was responsible for it.

March 6, 2012 11:36 a.m.

A staff member working in Old Mill reported vandalism to a coffee pot. The pot was found to have a crack in it that did not exist previously, according to the person who reported the event.

March 7, 2012 6:57 a.m.

A person not associated with UVM was found sleeping in the Rowell building.

The custodial staff found a knapsack in a Rowell bathroom. Police services were called, and the person using the knapsack was found sleeping in the building. A trespass notice was issued to the individual.

March 7, 2012 9:52 a.m.

A vehicle backed into a parked car in the UHC parking lot. The driver of the vehicle left the scene, but was later tracked down by police services and was issued a court citation for leaving the scene of an accident.

MACKENZIE JONES The Vermont Cynic

(From left to right) Advisor Cornell Woodson, Sam Fairchild, coordinator Harrison Keyes, Benjamin Moody, Jessie Groom, Seni Guendel outside of the Aiken Center, March 13.

Newman’s cash awarded Foundation gives $10,000 to Adaptive Sports

By Katy Cardin Staff Writer

Students making a difference in the lives of disabled sports lovers received recognition for their work March 4 with a $10,000 check.

The student organization Adaptive Sports, in partnership with Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, received $10,000 in grant money from the Newman’s Own Foundation Campus Community Service Challenge.

Newman’s Own Foundation encourages the practice of philanthropy on college campuses and awards grants based on student involvement in nonprofit organizations as well as their impact on those served, a press release stated.

Nine universities in the American East Conference competed for $100,000 worth of grant money and the winners were announced at the men and women’s basketball championship.

The University of Maine’s Engineers Without Borders was awarded the top prize of $25,000.

Adaptive Sports, one of 19 Volunteers in Action programs,

provides coaches and volunteers to instruct those with physical or cognitive disabilities in various sports activities.

Senior Harrison Keyes is a program coordinator for the group and helped put together the project proposal.

“The money will be given to purchase new ski equipment from a company in Montana.”

Harrison Keyes senior “I teach people with anything from Down Syndrome to people who have been injured or paralyzed how to ski,” Keyes said. “One of the cool things about this program is that there is such a huge range for things we can do.”

In order to enter the Newman’s Own contest, the group

was required to plan out a budget for what it would spend the money on if it won the grant.

“The money will be given to purchase new ski equipment from a company in Montana,” Keyes said.

Adaptive Sports will now be able to purchase six types of skis that allow people who have a spine injury or some other kind of mobility impairment, such as Muscular Dystrophy or Multiple Sclerosis, to ski independently, she said.

Funding for Adaptive Sports is not easy to receive, member and sophomore Sarah Lyon said.

“The organizations that we work with are nonprofit, mostly volunteer based, with limited funding to pay for equipment and transportation to the various locations,” Lyon said.

With the Newman’s Own Grant, Adaptive Sports will be able to help purchase expensive equipment and support the transportation costs for volunteers to further expand sports education and volunteerism at the University, she said.

First Vermont Energy Day will be honored in documentary

By Keegan Fairfield Senior Staff Writer Here’s a chance to have a YouTube video go viral.

Citizens across Vermont are being asked to submit photos and videos for a crowd-sourced documentary that will commemorate the first annual Vermont Energy Independence Day (VtEID) on March 21.

VtEID will celebrate the individual efforts of Vermonters to break ties with big oil and transition into a sustainableenergy future.

“Vermont is in the middle of this amazing transition to a new energy future,” said Jon Erickson, professor of ecological economics and one of the founders of VtEID. “We wanted to make a film that captures the spirit of that transition.”

The best way to do this, Erickson said, is by allowing Vermonters to do the storytelling.

“There’s so much going on, let’s let the people of Vermont tell us their stories and we’ll do our best to weave it together as one voice about what Vermont is up to,” he said.

Vic Guadagno, the film’s Emmy Award-winning producer, stated his vision for the film is to simply “personify the nuts and bolts of energy.”

Guadagno said he hopes the film will inspire others to follow suit.

“The best way to get participation is to make a film with the voice of the people,” he said.

Erickson stated a similar objective.

“The goal of the documentary is not the film itself, but the conversation that the film generates,” he said. “It’s an icebreaker.”

Over the last few months, students in Erickson’s Introduction to Ecological Economics

class have been hard at work spreading the word.

The course incorporates a plan that turns theory into practice.

“I hope the project makes the themes, content and vocabulary around ecological economics real for students,” Erickson said.

Junior Mia Payraudeau called the project an “eye-opening experience.”

“It has been really interesting to find out how many small businesses, schools and local companies are so environmentally conscious in Vermont,” she said.

With broad participation, Payraudeau said the film could be a good depiction of Vermonters’ determination to redefine their energy future.

“If the film gets a lot of submissions and people get really into it, it will be extremely tell-

ing of how attuned Vermonters are with their energy consumption, as well as their will to change the status quo,” she said.

Johanna Miller, energy program director for Vermont Natural Resources Council, has coordinated the effort to reach out to the more than 100 town energy committees across the state.

“Generally I’ve gotten a very positive reception,” she said.

“Vermonters are proud of what they have done, are doing and know what we need to do, so there has been a lot of enthusiasm for it.”

She said that compiling individual stories could present a powerful collective message, and hopes that people won’t be camera shy.

“It’s my hope that people can launch over [any shyness] and be brief and bold in telling their story, and putting it in the con-

text of why it matters,” she said.

Eager to begin editing, Guadagno said all that is left to do is hope that Vermonters supply him with enough content to create a quality and compelling film.

“It’s risky,” he said. “It’s worth it though — it’s such a cool concept.”

BrightBlue Ecomedia will produce the documentary with a debut aimed for the Vermont International Film Festival in October.

Students are welcome to join Vermonters in submitting a video of any length, quality or character that exhibits individual initiatives, however large or small, being taken in pursuit of a greener future.

For more information and to submit videos, students can visit the website march21st.org.

6

FEAT URE

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

Young senator with big ambition

State Rep. Kesha Ram went from UVM student to politican in no time During the current legislative session, Ram has sponsored three pieces of legislation, all of When Kesha Ram launched which passed the House and will her campaign for a seat in the be considered by the Senate in state Legislature in 2008, she the coming weeks. was a senior at UVM in the midst Her top priority this session of writing a thesis and serving a is a bill that would prohibit disterm as SGA president. crimination in land use and perNine months later, she was mit decisions against affordable decisively elected over an incumhousing. bent Progressive to represent “This bill is intended to ad“I’m 25 and this dress a statewide housing crisis,” Burlington’s Old North End, Hill Section and University District in she said, adding that it would is the first year Montpelier. provide protection for the poor Ram attributed her victory who are often subject to indefenI’m eligible to run not to partisan politics, but to her sible discrimination. tireless efforts to connect with for Congress, so Another bill, dubbed “GMO the constituent base.

Right to Know,” would require the future feels the labeling of food produced “I listened to what the community wanted, and with genetic engineering. wide open.” then came back with feed“We could make history,” back or answered quesRam said, if the bill were to pass. tions, and focused on issues “We are one of the only develKesha Ram that they cared about,” she oped countries that doesn’t have State Representative said. a distinction between genetically By election day, Ram modified food and naturally prohad knocked at least twice “It’s a huge responsibility duced food,” she said. on every door in the district to be the caretaker, in a sense, But Ram was crafting legislaand had registered more for people’s hard-earned tion even before she was elected than 1,000 students to money,” she said. “I take the as a representative. vote. responsibility very seriously.”

The policy recommendations Engaging students Ram has had a hand in a contained in her senior thesis, in the political number of important pieces of which focused on environmental process has legislation over the years. and social injustice in Vermont, always One of the first bills she spon- ultimately became enacted as been sored enabled tenants whose law. security deposits are being con“It was a huge boost of contested partially by a landlord to fidence,” she said of the experiimmediately reclaim the uncon- ence. tested portion.

“A lot of young people worry that they’re not qualified — that they don’t know enough about how policy is made to ever approach the political arena,” she said.

Ram said she faced the same aversion, but was emboldened by encouragement from future President Barack Obama in 2006.

At a senatorial campaign event for then-Rep. Bernie Sanders, Ram delivered an impassioned introduction for Sanders and then-Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), calling on her peers to engage in political affairs.

When Obama took to the podium to deliver his remarks, he rendered Ram starstruck.

“Kesha, you made an outstanding presentation,” Obama said, peering back at her. “And if Bernie doesn’t behave himself, we might run you instead.”

After the event, Ram said Obama made a point to shake her hand and encouraged her to expand her involvement.

One year later, Ram ran into the junior senator from Illinois in Washington, D.C. while she was interning for Sen. Diane NATALIE WILLIAMS The Vermont Cynic Feinstein (D-Calif.).

State Rep. Kesha Ram speaks to a reporter in her apartment in Burlington, Feb. 24.

She approached him, eager

By Keegan Fairfield Senior Staff Writer

a priority for Ram. She said she takes great pleasure in talking to students about anything and everything — academic, political or social.

“If we want to have young people in the highest levels of power in this country, we need them to think about running early on,” she said. “I’m always encouraging students on campus to think about running for office.”

At the age of 25, Ram is currently the youngest member serving in the state Legislature.

At the beginning of this year’s legislative session, Ram was appointed to the influential Ways and Means Committee, through which she manages the state’s revenue.

to deliver her mentally prepared remarks.

“I barely got two words out – I just said ‘I don’t know if you remember me’ – and he turned to Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and said, ‘This woman is so impressive; I met her in Vermont, and she is going to be a senator one day,’” she said.

Inspired by the endorsement of a political heavyweight, Ram made a successful bid for SGA president her senior year.

“It was a meaningful role,” she said of her presidency. “I really learned how to aggregate peoples’ interests and how to be a voice for a large population.”

Ram’s unwavering dedication to civic engagement and leadership is an attribute she said she has always possessed.

“It feels innate,” she said.

As early as high school, Ram began to pursue these passions to improve the lives of those around her.

“I was always coming up with ideas for how I thought we could make the world a better place,” she said, citing the creation of a recycling program at her high school and fundraising $10,000 for a student trip to India as two examples.

When she arrived at UVM in the fall of 2003, she said she “jumped right in.”

As her first order of business, she formed the Honors College Diversity Task Force to increase minority enrollment and diversify the curriculum.

In 2008, Ram graduated magna cum laude with degrees in natural resource planning and political science, and was the recipient of a number of honors.

On March 7, Ram travelled to Washington, D.C. to represent Oxfam as a “sister of the planet” climate change ambassador, where she met with members of Congress and women from around the world to discuss reforming food aid conventions.

While this trip to D.C. isn’t likely to be her last, Ram said she is content with her current positions and sees no need to rush.

“I’m really just enjoying what I’m doing, so we’ll see what happens, but I’m perfectly happy right now,” she said. “I’m 25 and this is the first year I’m eligible to run for Congress, so the future feels wide open.”

She maintains an active Twitter and Facebook presence, frequently updating her followers.

“I just try to be really open to students because there were a lot of people in the Burlington community that made sure I had the support I needed when I graduated,” she said. “That’s what’s helped me to be so successful.”

“I just try to be really open to students because there were a lot of people in the Burlington community that made sure I had the support I needed when I graduated.

That’s what helped me to be so successful.”

LIFE

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

7

Facebook an ‘easy target’ for robbers

Investigator warns students of apathy, carelessness in social media

By Melina Tej Chaouch Cynic Correspondent With the emergence of Facebook, Twitter and Google Maps, the ways news spreads, friends keep in touch, and crimes occur have greatly evolved.

Plymouth State University Police Department Investigator Jennifer Frank’s presentation, “Wish I Hadn’t Posted That: How Facebook Affects Your Present and Your Future” explored several different social media sites and how they affect college students; it was held in the Aiken Center on Feb. 24.

Canvassing a neighbourhood used to be more complicated, especially in smaller communities where people were more prone to noticing unfamiliar faces hanging around.

“It used to be that if a white van was hanging around, people called the police,” Frank said.

With the ability to access a street view on Google Maps, houses become much easier targets for burglars.

“Today all you have to do to case a potential burglary hit is type the address into Google Maps,” Frank said.

A pertinent example of the dangers for a college student would be posting pictures of his or her first apartment on Facebook.

Frank pointed out how these

HEALTH AND WELLNESS CORNER

JUDE PAUL DIZON

Eating disorders examined During the week of Feb. 26, National Eating Disorder Awareness Week (NEDAW) events were held on campus.

NEDAW is a universitysupported event held in partner with the National Eating Disorders Association. After NEDAW came to a close, I wanted to share important information you may have missed out on.

What is an eating disorder?

The most common eating disorders are Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa, but are not limited to these. Eating disorders manifest in behavioral, attitudinal and belief changes around food and weight.

These changes often disrupt a person’s physical, emotional and mental health. Binge eating and EDNOS (Eating Disorders Not Otherwise Specified) are also recognized eating disorders.

pictures may make burglary easier from the perspective of a burglar.

“Now I know where you live, and you’ve probably posted on Facebook when you’re going home,” she said. “I’m trying to decide, when I come to burglarize, should I bring the pickup truck or a smaller car?

“I see a big screen TV – I’m going to need the pickup truck,” Frank said.

Frank proceeded to explain other potential oversights.

“Think you have your Facebook on lockdown? What about all the people you’re friends with who you’ve never met? And what about hacking?” Frank said.

Facebook users may think this only ever happens to celebrities, she said.

“If Mark Zuckerberg, creator of Facebook, can be hacked, think about how easy it would be for a potential stalker or identity thief to hack into your profile,” she said.

Students, however, are unfazed. It seems that students find the most worrying aspect of Facebook to be the problem of privacy.

“It’s kind of sketchy that people can look at all your stuff — photos, profile, wall posts and all that, without you even knowing,” sophomore Trevor Ogden said.

NATALIE WILLIAMS The Vermont Cynic

Plymouth State University Police Investigator Jennifer Frank speaks on the effects of social media in the “Wish I Hadn’t Posted That: How Facebook Affects Your Present and Your Future” event, Feb. 24.

Sophomore David Travis agreed.

“The location tracking is the scariest thing for me. People shouldn’t be able to see where you are at all times. It’s just really weird; it feels like you can’t keep anything to yourself,” Travis said.

As another student pointed out, Facebook has made life

For more info visit www. uvm.edu/health.

Contributing author: Anne Cressey, Mental Health Educator, Center for Health and Wellbeing.

Jude Paul Dizon is a graduate assistant in the Center for Health and Wellbeing.

ing anything online that you wouldn’t say to someone’s face and being careful about how much information you make available online.

She also recommends not accepting friend requests from people you may not know personally, and remembering that posting online is like getting a tattoo — it is permanent.

Mild winter produces early syrup tapping, promises sweet spring

What are signs that indicate someone I know may be suffering from an eating disorder?

Indications that someone may be experiencing an eating disorder include: a noticeable change in weight; rigid patterns or schedules around food and/ or exercise; avoidance of social situations where there is food; appearing depressed, anxious, or withdrawn; or repeated talk about weight, food, appearance and exercise.

This is not an exhaustive list.

A person may be experiencing one or more of these symptoms.

To learn more, check out the National Eating Disorders Association at www. nationaleatingdisorders.org and Something Fishy at www. something-fishy.org.

On campus Mondays 5-6 p.m. in 108 Wright Hall, the Center for Health and Wellbeing offers a weekly drop-in discussion on eating disorders and body image.

The Help Overcome Problem Eating (HOPE) Team is a group of health professionals committed to assisting students.

Additionally, students can call Counseling and Psychiatry Services (CAPS) at (802)-6563340 for appointments.

much easier by helping students stay in touch with friends and family who may not be nearby.

“I have friends and family that are all over the world,” sophomore Andrew McCue said. “Facebook makes keeping in touch with them and including them in my life a lot easier.”

In order to remain safe, Frank suggests avoiding say-

SARAH ALEXANDER

If there is anything Vermont knows, it’s maple syrup.

The Green Mountain State boasts being the largest producer of maple syrup in the United States.

Our climate and soil conditions are superb for producing this sticky, sweet substance.

The sexy, slow sap is turned into a stellar product that people flock thousands of miles to taste.

This year’s extremely mild winter created a level of uncertainty among maple producers.

Fortunately, the lack of snow is not expected to hurt the prosperity of Vermont’s rich agricultural heritage.

In fact, the 40-degree sunny days and 20-degree evenings are prime. Changes in temperature between warm daytime and cold nights help build pressure inside trees, which allows for a better flow of sap.

The recent warm temperatures were ideal for tapping trees, and many farmers have begun their first tap of the season.

Henry Emmons Sr., of Red Rock Valley Maple Farm, has been making syrup for 34 years.

Emmons told the Burlington Free Press that he expects to start boiling sap within the next

few days. This will place Emmons about three weeks ahead of last year’s timeline.

Thankfully, the weather during the vital six-week tapping season is essentially all that matters. While the gentle winter definitely has an effect on the soil and its instrumental microorganisms, the consistent freezing and thawing that occurs during the actual sap flow period is the only absolutely necessary element.

Many sugarhouses are excited to be getting a premature start to a normally short season, while some fear the season will end too early.

If Vermont experiences extended periods of warm weather and the trees begin to bud, the sap develops an odd flavor, preventing its use and essentially ending the season.

This would be the worst-case scenario for maple producers.

The liquid gold that springs from Northeast woodlands is a true treasure.

Maple sugaring has been an early spring tradition in Vermont ever since the Eastern Woodland Indians discovered that maple

sap heated over an open flame produces a sweet, satisfying sugar.

With the perfect maple harvesting weather, it won’t be hard to get your hands on some fresh syrup to adorn pancakes, drizzle over toast and accompany chai tea.

State of Verm o n t

PURE MAPLE SYRUP

8

ARTS

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

Book review

ALEXA REILLY

‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’ “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” was written

by Swedish journalist Stieg Larsson, but published posthumously in 2005.

Since then, “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, along with its sequels in Larsson’s Millennium Series, has sold more than 20 million copies in Europe and the United States, and continues to top the bestsellers list today.

The recipe for such success seems to be equal parts mystery and thriller, with a dash of foreign nomenclature and business detail.

The story centers on Swedish financial journalist, Mikael Blomkvist, and his conviction and consequent sentencing for libel.

With his career de-

stroyed, Blomkvist is contacted by an aging industrial tycoon, Henrik Vanger, and convinced to investigate the disappearance of Vanger’s niece 40 years prior.

Blomkvist is helped along the way by the titular character, disturbed computer hacker Lisbeth Salander. As Blomkvist and Salander dig deeper into the mystery, the details surrounding Vanger’s tragic loss become more and more sinister.

After hearing about this book for years, I did not expect to find such a distinctly ordinary novel.

If anything marks it extraordinary, it is the unexpected savagery and theme of anti-feminine violence found in the book’s villains.

The three-pronged plot — that of Mikael’s judicial problems, the Vanger investigation and Salander’s offshoot character development — is rather consistent with my own observations of bestseller characteristics in that it is complicated enough to hold a reader’s attention, but not so complicated as to make the reader overly confused.

However, the novel’s attention to personal and brutal crimes such as rape and sexual murder is perplexing, as best sellers are not often as open and

explicit when dealing with these issues. I can’t help but wonder if impressions and fashion were the real causes for this book’s success.

Zeds Concert Dead Review

The recipe for such success seems to be equal parts mystery and thriller, with a dash of foreign nomenclature and business detail.

But honestly, what makes it horrible also makes it great. The reason Larsson uses such blunt language and description of such heinous crimes is to make a point: that women, and people in general, are not the objects that evil men think they are.

The best example is Lisbeth Salander herself – in the way she does not react, or slink away quietly to the corner, but carefully and fiercely refuses to be beaten. While not the typical role model, she is certainly a character to be proud of.

If one can get past the rest of it, Salander is the ingredient that makes the book worth reading.

SARA PFEFER The Vermont Cynic

Electronic duo Zeds Dead, which consists of members “DC” and “Hooks,” plays at the Higher Ground Ballroom, March 11.

By Molly Philbin Assistant Arts Editor “As you know, this is Zeds Dead,” said Dylan “DC” Mamid as he walked onto the Higher Ground stage with group partner Zach “Hooks” Rapp-RovanStrobe on March 11.

The dynamic duo is on their The Living Dead Tour, featuring Omar LinX and AraabMusik with supporting acts DJ Disco Phantom and XI. The dubstep fans that came out to see Zeds Dead at 8 p.m. hung around the bar, socialized and smoked cigarettes outside for two hours in anticipation of the show.

According to concertgoer Hunter Dyer, the supporting acts were not up to par with the bass-heavy, electronicinfluenced music students had come to see.

While the stage crew set up DC and Hooks’ equipment after XI left the stage, the ballroom cleared as everyone rushed outside of the hot and sweaty room for a breath of fresh air.

More people came back into the room than those who had stepped outside, bringing with them a cloud of cigarette smoke. Around 400 people were in the ballroom for Zeds Dead’s opening remix of “You Dropped a Bomb on Me” by The Gap Band.

Though Zeds Dead has few original songs, most of the music they played was remixes. Along with the opening remix, the duo remixed songs such as “A Day in the Life” by The Beatles, and “I Say a Little Prayer” by Aretha Franklin.

Aside from the few older people at the bar, the concertgoers were primarily students donning everything from glow sticks and glowing shoelaces to animal hats and monster backpacks.

A man with ‘LED rave lights gave several people light shows, and a girl in a hot pink bikini top confessed her love to Zeds Dead from atop another guy’s shoulders. Someone threw a pack

of cigarettes into the crowd, hitting a girl in the face.

The crowd was not all avid Zeds Dead fans; only a few danced with the beats the duo threw at the crowd.

Just when the duo’s bassdropping seemed to never end, Zeds Dead stopped the sound and asked the audience for permission to play a new, slower song, “No Prayers.” The song is off of the forthcoming Zeds Dead and Omar LinX “Victor” mix-tape. Fast-paced dancing was replaced by couples slow dancing for this track.

Though DC and Hooks remained relatively stationary for the entire show, slamming buttons on their laptops, they still had patches of sweat on their clothing.

“Zeds Dead’s looking tipsy, Vermont I know you’re with me,” Omar LinX shouted at the audience.

By the fifth song, the crowd had slowed down, and many people headed outside or leaned against the bar to order drinks and distance themselves from those still dancing.

The crowd at the foot of the stage jumped up and down and threw their hands into the air. People moved to the sides of the mosh pit to Tecktonik and Shuffle, Electro dance styles, and one person even did the robot.

Zeds Dead left the stage at 11:45 p.m., but the crowd remained, cheering for an encore. When the group came back onstage, Hooks got on the microphone and asked the crowd for “real emotion” before they got another song.

During the encore song, the stage crew turned the lights up and LinX, who came back for the encore song as well, had the audience sing along with him.

The show ended with a flash of bright blue light across the audience as the duo moved to the front of the stage where they praised the audience for coming.

“We love you all to death,” DC shouted.

ARTS

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

By Taylor Morse Cynic Correspondent Among the new installments at the Fleming Museum is the exhibit “Up In Smoke,” a multicultural display of the ongoing interaction between humans and smoke.

From a 17th century depiction of Amsterdam enflamed to the dawn of the factory boom in Vermont to the overdramatized allure of cigarettes in modern art, “Up In Smoke” chronicles the give and take, as well as the ever-changing interjection of smoke into society.

Throughout a wide yet ambiguous range of histories from around the world, onlookers are shown scenes of happiness, luxury, mystique and devastation. The scenes continually grow and become more elaborate throughout the centuries, highlighting the beauty as well as serenity in the simplicity of past civilizations.

The Wilbur Room is the first gallery in the museum,

AER with JACOB ES Higher Ground

fri

and presents the exhibit’s largest display, its manifesto: to raise awareness of the “ubiquitous” role smoke plays in everyday life.

“Up In Smoke” incites the idea of smoke and humanity coexisting, while suggesting a growing dependency on man’s behalf. Within this relationship, regardless of balancing need, is the realized potential for good that comes with the notion of smoke, as well as its ever-looming danger and sheer power.

Among the pieces in the large, wooden room are etchings, incense, ink prints, wooden and water pipes, and a featured painting from the Baroque period by Dutch artist Aert van der Neer.

In this rather non-cohesive collection of the various ways in which smoke is used in different cultures, an international unifying dichotomy of man-made progression and elemental destruction exists, as well as peace and addiction, within society.

The exhibit as a whole

LUNESA Flynn Center for Performing Arts

Emily bartran

Daniel Radcliffe trades wizardry for law in ‘The Woman in Black’ Daniel Radcliffe stars as Arthur Kidd, a young father and lawyer, in the 2012 remake of “The Woman in Black.”

Radcliffe’s first big onscreen film since Harry Potter hasn’t quite escaped his “Potter” legacy – Adrian Rawlins, the actor who played the original Arthur Kidd in 1989, is the same actor who plays Harry’s father, James Potter, in the acclaimed series.

Arthur Kidd is a widower with a young son who leaves for the weekend to wrap up some loose ends on a case which he has been working on. Kidd finds himself in a remote village in England where his presence is less than welcomed.

Despite much warning, Kidd goes to the aban-

MATTHEW KUPERMAN The Vermont Cynic

Etchings, incense, ink prints, pipes and a Dutch painting which depict the relationship between humans and smoke were on display at the “Up in Smoke” exhibit at Fleming Museum, Feb. 24. doesn’t offer as captivating an experience as its title suggests, but it does confront its audience with an interest-

ing thought piece. If nothing else, it offers a window into ancient cultures, as well as the industrial formation of

Arts Calendar DR. DOG Higher Ground

GWAR Higher Ground

sat mon wed Movie review

doned mansion of the family for which he is working.

The estate is located on an island near the village, and can only be accessed during low tide; when the water rises, the road to the house disappears, making it impossible to leave or enter the property.

Here, Kidd quickly discovers the root of the villagers’ anxieties, and takes it upon himself to try to end the dreaded curse of a woman dressed in black.

Reinventing yourself after a role like Harry Potter is quite a challenge.

The open ocean and grandeur of the vintage home is a beautiful setting for this creepy film, but it does not quite take away the sting of a slew of brutal deaths of children.

Whether or not Kidd prevails in ridding the town of the woman’s ghost can only be answered by seeing the film, and although it’s tempting, try to refrain from the many opportunities to sneak in a Hogwarts reference or two.

Reinventing yourself after a role like Harry Potter is quite a challenge, but this role was a step in the right direction for Radcliffe.

9

our own.

“Up in Smoke” will be on display until Aug. 26.

25th Annual Children’s Art Exhibition Until March 28th - Metropolitan Gallery Art at the Airport Until March 31st - Burlington International Airport Up in Smoke Until March 26th - Fleming Museum

10

Opinion

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

STAFF EDITORIAL

Tweet with caution THE VERMONT

C YNIC

EDITORIAL BOARD

Editor-in-Chief Brent Summers cynic@uvm.edu

802-656-0337

Managing Editor Corrie Roe

cynicnewsroom@gmail.com

News

Becky Hayes

cynicnews@gmail.com

Opinion

Peyton Rosenthal

cynicopinion@gmail.com

Sports

Mike Eaton

cynicsportseditor@gmail.com

Life/Feature Hannah Ullman

cyniclifeeditor@gmail.com

Arts

Natalie Slack

cynicartseditor@gmail.com

Layout

Devon Meadowcroft

cyniclayouteditor@gmail.com

Web

Colleen McClintock

vermontcynicweb@gmail.com

Photography Natalie Williams

cynicphoto@gmail.com

Copy Chief

Jasmine Hughes

cyniccopyedit@gmail.com

Illustration Dana Ortiz

cynicsketches@gmail.com

Video

Jon Polson

cynicvideo@gmail.com

STAFF Assistant Editors

Devin Karambelas (News), Lauren Drasler (News), Mackenzie Jones (Photo), Homer Johnsen (Photo), Julia Dwyer (Sports), Ann Cromley (Life), Grace Buckles (Layout)

Page Designers

Danielle Bilotta, Lilly Xian, Grace Buckles, Meg Ziegler, Alana Luttinger

Copy Editors

Jason Scott, Amanda Santillan, Stephanie Nistico, Kate Piniewski, Jenny Baldwin, Emily Bartran, Jess Schwartz, Kaitlyn Green, Abbey Dunn, Shelbie Ladue, Allie Sullivan, Molly Philbin, Katie Murray, Stephen Hudecek

OPERATIONS Operations Manager

In 2012, there has been a seemingly unexplainable eruption of local burglaries. The number in 2011 nearly doubled to 400 from the year before, when a steady 250 calls to the Burlington Police Department was the norm.

Any city with a relatively large population and plethora of accessible housing is prone to crime and burglary. Burlington is also home to our University, which hosts a variety of students living on and off campus.

However, these skyrocketing crime numbers are leaving the Burlington police, school administration and us at The Cynic incredibly curious as to what has caused such a sudden spike.

Plymouth State University Police Department Investigator Jennifer Frank believes it is no coincidence that along with the reported surges in crime, there have also been significant increases in social media activity among students.

Twitter, Facebook and Google Maps are three of countless other accessible applications available for people who are looking to snag a nice flat screen TV late at night.

All the crook has to do is notice someone’s Facebook status bragging about spring break in Miami or a visit back home to see family, and utilize Google Street View to find exact addresses.

The opportunity can arise from as simple an action as a student living on Colchester Avenue or Pearl Street deciding to tweet daily routines and clever puns, through which Twitter automatically posts a current location and the time.

Facebook and Foursquare operate in similar ways, benefiting the criminal in the end. We are living in an age of technology that allows us to communicate information instantaneously, and this only sustains the possibility of fostering digital criminals.

What this situation comes down to is our own ability to control what comes out of our fingers — in the form of status updates or checking in on Foursquare.

Criminals have found the ultimate way to exploit media and take advantage of young kids’ nonchalant attitudes toward a growing epidemic of social networking inspired theft.

So, even though you may think you’re careful on your Facebook, and insist you can trust all 800 of your Facebook friends, make sure to take extra precaution when securing your home. Today, all it takes is the click of a mouse to determine the accessibility and probability of raiding of your house for all you are worth.

Victor Hartmann

cynicoperations@gmail.com

Distribution Manager Kyle DeVivo kdevivo@uvm.edu

Advertising Manager Luke Jonas cynicalads@gmail.com

ADVISER Faculty Adviser Chris Evans

crevans@uvm.edu

DISTURBING QUOTE OF THE WEEK

COLUMNISTS

Blogging, the new literature

PEYTON ROSENTHAL

The year 2012 marks the age of many things, a beginning to some and end to others.

2012 marks the end of the world, the presidential election — dubbed the most idiotic of all time — and a flurry of strange global warming-induced weather.

Besides contemplating the possibility of the world ending, or the destruction of the American empire ruled under Mitt Romney, I find the Internet to be the most interesting way to avoid the boring turmoil in the real world.

Technology continues to fry my mind, as innovative ways to express one’s every fleeting thought and precious moment in the outside world become available.

Recently, I’ve been going crazy with my Tumblr instead of focusing on my midterms. If you’re unaware of this bourgeoning sensation, Tumblr is an online microblogging community and social network-

ing site, started by David Karp, who is currently CEO. Tumblr also allows users to keep up a blog-like webpage through personal posts or reposting already existing multimedia content. Users can follow other blogs or make their blogs private with a password.

Besides the incessant posts of pointless, replicated material, some people actually use their Tumblrs as vehicles to show the world their writing.

Take Tao Lin, an American writer and founder of literary press, Muumuu House, who began posting about the daily happenings of his life in New York City on Tumblr, and eventually became a published writer of six books.

Besides Tumblr and its underground alternative literature style, websites like HTMLGIANT, Thought Catalogue, Gawker, and n+1 all post and support this new movement of unpunctuated, short bursts of thought and casual everyday mumblings.

I would go so far as to refer to this alternative style as a movement, due to the fact that the constant development of new technology assists in the continuation of this unusual writing.

The pieces featured on these literature blogs are intellectually stimulating, interesting and usually pretty raunchy, but in a good kind of way. Yet what

makes the content and movement so much more exhilarating to follow are the writers behind the coded and encrypted pages.

Literature has reached the day where readers are becoming more fascinated with the lives of their entertainment providers instead of focusing on already dead has-beens.

Thought Catalog is the new Herman Melville, people. We’ve bypassed the age of J.D. Salinger and his paperback copies of “The Catcher in the Rye.” I’m introducing you to the Internet and its possibility for huge success. Paper is obsolete; take a look at the hands of your classmates and what are they carrying? Kindles and Nooks.

Textbooks are the overpriced version of torture, and students are spending their time browsing Twitter and Facebook.

Say goodbye to typical literature as well. You’ll no longer be curling up at night with your favorite book, but instead your embellished iPad 3, or Macbook Air, browsing the pages of Tao Lin’s Blogspot or Mira Gonzalez’s hilarious published Twitter feed.

Peyton Rosenthal is a first-year anthropology major. She has been writing for The Cynic since fall 2011.

“ICHAT ADDS FIVE POUNDS TO MY PENIS.”

Bob Saget, enlightening us on his Twitter account, @bobsaget, about the perks of having a Mac.

Unsigned editorials officially reflect the views of The Cynic and its staff. All signed opinion pieces and columns do not necessarily do so. The Cynic accepts letters in response to anything you see printed as well as any issues of interest in the community. Please limit letters to 350 words. Send letters to cynicopinion@gmail.com

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OPINION

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

COLUMNISTS

Supporting KONY and inaccuracies

ZACH DESPART

Invisible Children, a San Diego-based nonprofit organization dedicated to arresting warlord Joseph Kony and liberating child soldiers, made headlines last week after releasing a video that made its way across the Internet.

It is difficult to view the Invisible Children campaign without cynicism due to the recent revelation that humanitarian Greg Mortensen fabricated parts of his bestselling book, “Three Cups of Tea.” The campaign is succeeding in directing America’s attention to an obscure conflict half a world away. I, like millions of others, had never heard of Joseph Kony before viewing the film.

However, some of the claims in the film have been criticized for being misleading, and Invisible Children’s expenditures have also been called into question.

According to their financial records, which are public record, Invisible Children spent $8.9 million, but just $2.8 million went to direct services in Africa.

The facts are beginning to surface, casting doubt on some of the statements the film makes. The New York Times noted the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), the militia group headed by Kony, has not operated in Uganda for several years. Now, LRA is based out of the Central African Republic, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The conflict the film portrays is black and white — a neat dichotomy between good and bad, innocence and brutality. The media has grown to be weary of this altruistic humanitarianism.

Critics have chastised the film for its simplicity — it casts the LRA as the bad guys and the Ugandan security forces as the good. It ignores, detractors say, the rape and looting committed by Uganda’s own soldiers.

The film depicts meetings with several members of the United States Congress, features only two Ugandan officials and doesn’t even mention the name of the nation’s president, Yoweri Museveni.

But does all of this matter? If the end result is global awareness of a conflict that has devastated an entire region and generation, who cares if the film is misleading at times, or even self-serving to its creators?

The film takes a great deal of liberty with some facts and wholly omits others. But make no mistake — Russell is not a journalist or an academic. He is a filmmaker, and he made a great film.

And who is the protagonist

of the film? It’s not Jacob, a Ugandan boy profiled in the film who lost his brother in the conflict. It’s not the Ugandan soldiers or politicians either.

It’s you and me. It’s our government leaders, our soldiers in Uganda, and the founders of Invisible Children.

It’s Gavin Russell, the son of the filmmaker.

The New York Times also noted that few people in Uganda can actually view the film; just 10 percent have internet access. But the video is not aimed at Ugandans; it’s instead aimed toward young Americans, and it’s spot-on.

“No one wants a boring documentary on Africa,” Jason Russell, filmaker of the video, told the New York Times. “We have to make it pop and we have to make it cool.”

By “no one,” Russell is refering to “American twentysomethings.” His assessment of our appetite for conflicts in sub-Sarahan Africa is accurate. If the film was a one-hour slideshow narrated by Roger Mudd, it would have flopped.

If it only featured Africans, it wouldn’t have raced across Facebook.

Russell, criticize him as you may for sensationalizing the film’s content, made a film that resonated with young people. It’s short, with a very high production value — crane shots, great composition, CGI. It incorporates popular music — from Mumford & Sons to Dubstep. It’s one Walt Whitman poem short of being a Levi’s commercial.

Its message is simple — young people can do anything; they alone can facilitate global change. It’s hip. It’s easily digestible. It’s inspiring. And it works.

We should praise any good that comes from Invisible Children’s efforts. Does it oversimplify a multifaceted issue?

Yes. Are some of the claims in the film dubious? Yes. But the organization, created in 2004, has already done some good.

Invisible Children should be praised for their mission to promote awareness of Joseph Kony and the LRA. They have already been massively successful to that end — the video, as of Sunday, had 71 million views.

Celebrities like Ryan Gosling and Oprah Winfrey have expressed support, and White House Press Secretary Jay Carney commended the film for raising awareness of Kony and the LRA. I think Don Cheadle said it best in tweeting that he thought the energy behind the movement was “great.” But he also offered a caveat, adding, “as long as it is tempered with awareness, sensitivity, research and a healthy dose of skepticism.”

Zach Despart is a senior political science major. He has been writing for The Cynic since fall 2009.

11

Biden supports Obama 2012 should his responsibilities be?

Historically, vice presidents have assumed purely ceremonial roles. Traditional duties include casting a vote in the event of a Senate deadlock, presiding over the Electoral College, and stepping in for the president if he — or she possibly one of these days —cannot serve in the event of illness, resignation or death.

BIANCA MOHN

With his phony smile and pressed suits in tow, Joe Biden is hitting the campaign trail once again on behalf of Obama.

On March 6, the Huffington Post reported that Biden will give a series of speeches in states crucial to Obama’s reelection.

There are many things you could say about Joe Biden.

Described by some as Obama’s best life insurance policy, he never fails to entertain. If his upcoming speeches at all resemble his campaigning in 2008, late night TV viewers are in for a real treat.

Biden once described Obama in one of his finest moments in the 2008 democratic primary campaign, “I mean, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy. I mean, that’s a storybook, man.”

Snarky comments aside, Biden launching a campaign calls attention to the role of the vice president. Yes, Biden is ridiculous, but in an ideal situation, how should the vice president behave and what

Firstly, standards need to be raised to keep half-witted pinheads like Biden out of office.

No wonder vice presidents have been forgotten so quickly.

After an election, these responsibilities are quite small if the president is alive and well.

However, in the more recent presidencies, vice presidents have been given more power to advise, engage in diplomatic affairs, campaign for the president, initiate legislation and act as spokespeople for the White House.

This is a start, but the role of the vice president should be greater. Standards need to be raised to keep half-witted pinheads like Biden out of office.

Presidential candidates must consider not only who will get

them elected, but also who will be a long-term political partner.

If I were the president, I would choose a vice president who complemented my skills.

Obama, who had minimal experience in international politics before assuming office, could have benefited from a seasoned right-hand man during the Arab Spring.

We expect superhuman feats from our presidents. Why not delegate responsibilities to an intelligent, capable vice president? If Biden possessed either of these qualities, he could have taken on health care reform while Obama focused on the economy and job creation.

In giving the vice president one or two key issues to focus on, the president could direct attention to other matters and still maintain his or her power.

Having one extra hour each day to concentrate on an important problem could potentially make an enormous difference in a president’s legacy. Indeed, an active vice president could change everything.

At the very least, our country needs a vice president who does not make comments such as, “You cannot go to a 7-11 or a Dunkin’ Donuts unless you have a slight Indian accent…

I’m not joking” as Biden did on C-SPAN. Good riddance.

Bianca Mohn is a first-year business administration major.

She has been writing for The Cynic since fall 2011.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Educating men about rape Dear Editor, I was pleased to see the article in Issue 20’s edition about the rape aggression defense course on campus. Perhaps it should be mandatory for women to take this course in

the first semester of their freshman year, but why shouldn’t men take a “please-don’t-rapeanyone” course in that same semester? After all, while the majority of rape victims are women, the majority of rapists are men. If women should be proactive in preventing their

Quick Opinions Peyton Rosenthal “Maybe it’d be nice to have spring break when it’s actually spring.”

own rapes, men should be proactive in knowing what rape is and how to not perpetrate it.

Sincerely, Kenneh McMahon Class of 2014

Illustration by Andrew Becker

Have an opinion?

Send your quick opinion to: cynicopinion@gmail.com

Bianca Mohn

“The worst part of admitted student days is being scrutinized by the tour groups. I’m not an exotic zoo animal; I just want to get to class!”

12

DIST RACT IONS

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

College Life by Rodney Rhea

Cat Tales by Emma Cipriani

Camp Morning Wood by Scott Womer

#uvmproblems Lost my cat card for the 800th time #ineedfood #uvmproblems

@vanlillard People spontaneously singing in Brennans, #UVMProblems

@Cnolan207 Our team is by far the whitest team in the #NCAA tournament #uvmproblems

@SantiLiv Oh vermonters..this weathers already got them walking around campus barefoot #uvmproblems

@carlyfriesz Professor just fell over when George screamed/sang “All Aboard AHHHHAHA” at students getting on the bus #uvmproblems

Crossword

ACROSS 1- Entreaty 5- Fork 10- Away from port 14- Lubricates 15- Ancient region of Asia Minor 16- Some DVD players 17- Depilatory brand 18- Spherical bacteria 19- Clublike weapon 20- Ensure 22- Taut 23- Elevator man 24- Diamond stats 26- Orch. section 29- Entr’___ 31- Goes in 35- In front 37- Other, in Oaxaca 39- Dies ___ 40- Fishing hole

@MaggieGalka everyone on the bus has an iphone #uvmproblems

@morgsnover There would be a group of people outside playin bongos and guitar at 11:30 pm #uvmproblems

@bweeehall Have a #uvmproblem?

brought to you by bestcrosswords.com

41- Earth tone 42- Maize 43- Norwegian king 44- Milk choice 45- Approvals 46- Condiment 48- Make reference to 50- Afore 51- Mariners can sail on seven of these 53- Ark builder 55- Roman garments 58- Belief in three Gods 63- Attempt 64- Browned sliced bread 65- Bhutan’s continent 66- Seed cover 67- Wonderland girl 68- Falls behind 69- Routine 70- Conger catcher 71- Harmony

DOWN 1- Early video game 2- In ___ of 3- Zeno’s home 4- Minute Maid Park player 5- Outing 6- Rhizome 7- A single time 8- More pleasant 9- Moo goo ___ pan 10- Truce 11- Heroin, slangily 12- “From ___ according to his abilities…”

13- I’d hate to break up ___ 21- Not much 22- Like some ears 25- Endure 26- Flavor 27- Fulcrum for an oar 28- Kidney-related 30- Moral precept of conduct 32- Uneven 33- Less common 34- Have a feeling 36- Prudent 38- Recall past experiences 41- Dept. of Labor division 45- Casual assent 47- Paris possessive 49- Unsteady gait 52- Fur scarf 54- Makes well 55- Boris Godunov, for one 56- Other, in Oaxaca 57- Manner of walking 59- Complain 60- Brit’s exclamation 61- Indication 62- Not fem.

64- ___ kwon do

Sports

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

Vermont skiers win big

By Jeremy Karpf Staff Writer

The University of Vermont ski team are NCAA National Champions. This is the school’s sixth ski championship and their first since 1994.

Senior Franz Bernstein got the winning started, placing third in the men’s 20k classic, and senior Amy Glen won the women’s 15k classic in a photo finish to help the Catamounts build a 92-point lead over second place Utah after Nordic events on Friday.

Vermont accumulated a NCAA National Ski Championship record total of 832 points – a record-breaking 161 points over second place Utah, who had 671. Defending champion Colorado rounded out the top three with a total of 670.

“It was an incredible effort by the entire team. They put together an awesome week to earn this,” said Bill Reichelt, UVM’s director of skiing and head Alpine coach. “The Nordic team did an unbelievable job yesterday and set the Alpine team up in [a] strong position going into today. Coaches Patrick [Weaver] and Andrew [Johnson] nailed the wax both days for the Nordic team and the kids were amazing.”

On Saturday, sophomore Kate Ryley flew away with the women’s slalom title, putting down a 43.27 second first run and a two-run total of 1:35.17, just 17/10 of a second faster than

Sports Shorts

By Diana Giunta Senior Staff Writer

Women’s track and field excels in ECAC The Vermont women’s track and field team finished with 16 points and a tie for 20th place among 70 schools after the ECAC championships on March 3. The competition took place at the Reggie Lewis Center in Boston over two days. Sophomore Yolanda Ngarambe placed third in the 800-meter run and senior Morgan Powers won the 5,000-meter run.

PHOTO COURTESY OF UVM ATHLETICS COMMUNICATIONS

The UVM ski team poses after claiming the top spot in the country, March 10. It is their first NCAA championship since 1994. teammate first-year Kristina Riis-Johannessen. The two led Vermont to a 1-2-5 finish in slalom after Ryley earned national runner-up in GS. Ryley is the first Catamount to win a women’s individual national title since Gibson LaFountaine won back-to-back championships in 1993 and 1994, and just the third woman ever in school history.

“We had a great feeling going into the last day,” Reichelt said.

“The girls were conservative on the first run, but stepped it up for the second run — to finish 1-2-5 in the slalom at the NCAAs is pretty incredible.”

In the men’s slalom, defending national champion junior Tim Kelley missed a repeat by just 24/10 of a second behind Denver’s Epsen Lysdahl.

Kelley led UVM to a 2-7 finish in men’s slalom.

Vermont had 17 total All-

Americans distributed between 10 individuals. Kelley earned the honor for his performance in men’s giant slalom (GS) and slalom, while sophomore Jonathan Nordbotten earned second team in both events.

First year Bobby Farrell was also awarded second team in GS. Among the women, senior Lucy Garrec was named first team in both freestyle and classical Nordic along with fellow senior Caitlin Patterson.

Amy Glen earned first team for her performance in women’s classical and second team in freestyle. Kate Ryley and firstyear Elli Terweil both earned first team honors in both of the women’s slalom events, while Riis-Johannessen earned first team in slalom.

Men’s hockey falls to BC at season’s end The Vermont men’s hockey team lost both games of the season’s final series on the road against Boston College March 2 and 3. The first loss was 5-1 and the second was 4-0. With their victory, the Eagles clinched the Hockey East regular season title. The Catamounts end the season with a record of 6-27-1 (3-23-1 HEA).

UVM senior named defender of the week Vermont women’s lacrosse goalkeeper, senior Laura Barber, was named the America East Women’s Lacrosse Defender of the Week on March 12. Barber earned her 16th career win with the Catamounts on March 7 in a game against High Point. This victory moved her into fourth place among Vermont’s all-time leading goalkeepers.

Weighing Peyton Manning’s options

JAKE BIELECKI

As of writing this, we’re still waiting on Peyton Manning’s decision.

The most sought after free agent in the history of the NFL reportedly had 12 teams inquire about his services, and he has discussed his opportunities at length with the Cardinals, Broncos and Dolphins.

Titans’ owner Bud Adams has made it very clear that he wants Manning to return to Tennessee, where he played his college ball, and he is expected to meet with Manning soon.

If I were Peyton Manning, these would be my top three choices of the teams that are reportedly interested. #3 – Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals offer arguably the best receiver in the NFL with Larry Fitzgerald, the hospitality of a dome, and a team that was on the rise to the end of the 2011 season.

However, they also allowed 54 sacks last year, second worst in the NFL. Not something

13

you’re looking for as a 36-yearold coming off four neck surgeries. Granted, playing with inexperienced quarterbacks like John Skelton and Kevin Kolb leads to more sacks.

I think there’s a pretty decent chance Manning ends up here, but I wouldn’t if I were him. #2 – Seattle Seahawks: Much like the Cardinals, the Seahawks finished hot last year on the strength of their up-andcoming defense and improved offense.

With Marshawn Lynch, Leon Washington and Justin Forsett combining for what would be the most skilled backfield Manning has played with and young depth at the receiver position, they do offer weapons on the offensive side as well. Notorious for having some of the best fans in the NFL and no quarterback of importance standing in his way, Seattle would be a solid fit for Peyton.

The Seahawks reportedly are out of the Manning sweepstakes, however, as they were unable to get him to visit their facility. #1 – Denver Broncos: Assuming there is a good chance that Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark follow Manning if the team he signs with is interested, I think Denver would be the best fit for Manning.

The defense is young and good, and the offense lacks weapons but presumably would be interested in Wayne and Clark because of that.

They also play in the AFC West, the weakest division in the considerably weaker conference.

For my money, they’re the instant favorite out of the AFC if they can sign the three former Colts.

Excluded – San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers would have been my No. 1 team with the recent signing of Randy Moss, an elite defense, and an elite tight end already in place.

However, they have said openly that they aren’t interested in Manning and are comfortable with Alex Smith.

Excluded – Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins would have been No. 2 after the Broncos if they hadn’t traded Brandon Marshall to Chicago for two third round picks.

Some analysts believe they made this move in some sort of an attempt to get Manning, but I don’t think trading away one of the most physically gifted receivers in the league is any way to entice an elite quarterback.

They are now left with a receiving core featuring Davone Bess and Greg Camarillo.

Miami is still a pretty decent bet, but if I were Peyton, I’d stay away.

Illustration by Stephanie Fienberg

14

S P O RT S

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

March Madness 2012 John Becker on an outstanding season. Now, let’s get to the projections.

Upset Alert for #1 Seeds: Michigan State and Kentucky

WILL ANDREYCAK

Before making some predictions about this year’s Big Dance, I would be remiss if I failed to congratulate the UVM men’s basketball team and head coach

Memphis is a team that was drastically under-seeded.

The youthful Tigers went 26-8 this season and were battle tested early with games against Georgetown, Louisville, Murray State and Michigan. Despite coming up short in these out-of conference matchups, the young talent was immediately thrown into the fire, and the Tigers are a better team now because of it.

Memphis has won their last seven games and their three C-USA tournament games with an average winning

margin of 25 points.

Will Barton is a stud — averaging 18.1 ppg and 8.0 rpg — and Joe Jackson rounds out one of the nation’s best backcourts. Michigan State will have their hands full against an athletic Memphis team that has a legit chance at making the Final Four as a No. 8 seed.

Despite being the overall No. 1 seed, Kentucky seems to have the toughest road to New Orleans. If UConn can get by Iowa State in the first round, it will set up an intriguing matchup against the Wildcats in the Round of 32.

ESPN analyst Jay Bilas made a great point when he argued that UConn is one of the only teams in the country that can match Kentucky athlete for athlete. Certainly Kentucky has more talent, but UConn will be able to match their athleticism, speed and strength.

First-year UConn center Andre Drummond will have a chance to become a household name if he can outplay Kentucky’s Anthony Davis and advance the Huskies past the Wildcats into the Sweet 16.

Final Four Favorites South Region: Kentucky Wildcats I know I said they have the most difficult region in the tournament, but Kentucky, in my opinion, simply has the most talent in the country period.

Anthony Davis is an obious absolute force in the middle, but the talent that surrounds him — Terrence Jones, Doron Lamb, Marcus Kidd-Gilchrist — is equally as impressive.

As many have said, a lot hinges on the efficiency of first-year point guard Marquis Teague. But I believe that Kentucky’s ability to be aggressive on the defensive end, due to the shot-blocking ability of Davis, will overwhelm most teams that stand in their way to New Orleans.

West Region: Marquette Golden Eagles

It was a difficult decision picking between Missouri and Marquette. I omit Michigan State because I think they will fall to Memphis in the Round of 32.

Marquette is an extremely tough and gritty team that has quietly put together an outstanding year in the Big East.

Marquette won’t overwhelm any team with size, but they have star-power in the form of Darius-Johnson Odom and Jae Crowder. Crowder is an extremely difficult cover on the defensive end. His strength allows him to play big in the post yet he shoots 36 percent from the three-point line.

In March, star players are as valuable as any other asset a team can have. The fact that Marquette has two solidified stars gives them a great chance to advance to the Final Four.

Mid-West Region: North Carolina Tarheels More than any other region, I am hoping that the No. 1 and 2 seeds meet in the Elite Eight.

Kansas vs. North Carolina would be an immensely entertaining matchup between two of the most respected programs in the nation.

I have been going back and forth on who I am picking for the Final Four, and I ultimately decided that UNC’s depth gives them the edge.

The ability of Player of the Year candidate Thomas Robinson and Tyshawn Taylor are hard to pick against, but UNC has weapons at every position on the floor. Harrison Barnes is an NBA ready guard, Tyler Zellar is as steady as they come on the blocks, John Henson is a long forward who can hit mid-range jumpers and block shots and Kenyon Marshall is the country’s best passing point guard.

U N C has a complete team a n d they should be viewed as one of the favorites to win the entire tournament.

East Region: Syracuse Orange Losing Fab Melo is an absolutely horrific blow to a team that had a legit shot at a national title. That being said, I still think they can earn a Final Four bid due to the matchups they have.

While Syracuse will suffer in the shot-blocking department, they may actually be a better defensive rebounding team with Melo out of the lineup.

Melo’s habit of violent block attempts takes him out of the rebounding equation and allows an opposing forward to crash the glass uncontested.

Insert Rakeem Christmas or Baye Keita, and the defensive rebounding may be better.

Melo was a non-factor on the offensive end, so I still see the Orange scoring plenty. The climb to the Final Four will be an arduous one, but the Orange have been overcoming adversity all season. This will say a lot about Jim Boeheim’s program.

National Champion North Carolina Tar Heels I originally had Syracuse winning a national title this year, but without Fab Melo, I can’t see them beating a team like Kentucky.

Instead, I am going to pick the Tar Heels for many of the same reasons I originally picked Syracuse: they are deep, athletic, excellent in transition, and have outstanding leadership.

Harrison Barnes is a future NBA star and they have the best point guard in the country. John Henson continues to impress me with his versatility at both sides of the floor and Tyler Zellar is the glue that keeps the team together.

A matchup between Kentucky and North Carolina would be a dream matchup between two deep and athletic teams. In the end, Carolina has the advantage because of their experience.

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S P O RT S

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

15

Bothwell resigns A glimpse into the other side

By Mike Eaton Sports Editor

After the worst season of his six-year tenure, women’s hockey coach Tim Bothwell apologized and announced his resignation on March 7.

In his six years, Bothwell managed 40 total wins, 21 in Hockey East, amounting to a 40-138-21 record overall.

“I accept full responsibility for the lack of success we have achieved in my six years as head coach.”

Tim Bothwell Former women’s hockey coach “It is with a great deal of professional disappointment that I announce my resignation today,” said Bothwell. “I was hired to move the UVM women’s hockey program forward and we have moved forward in very significant ways since 2006.”

In his announcement, Bothwell took all of the responsibility for the team’s disappointing record.

“However, in the coaching profession at any level, wins and losses are the ultimate measure of success and, from that perspective, I accept full responsibility for the lack of success we have achieved in my six years as head coach,” he said.

Bothwell played college hockey at Brown before a stint in the NHL with the New York Rangers, St. Louis Blues and Hartford Whalers. He was the assistant coach for the Canadian women’s team that took home the Olympic gold medal in 2006, an achievement that set expectations high.

Yet during his time at Vermont, Bothwell was never able to lead the Catamounts to a single playoff appearance, holding a spot in Hockey East no higher than seventh place.

“This past season has been a particular disappointment,” Bothwell said. “We had a very strong freshmen class but many factors, including key injuries, meant fewer wins than anyone expected.”

The 2011-2012 season meant an overall record of 4-22-6 for the Cats and, once again, an absence in the Hockey East tournament.

The search for a new head coach will begin immediately according to UVM director of athletics Robert Corran. Assistant coaches Mike Gilligan and Grant Kimball will manage the program until Bothwell’s successor is found.

Sailing has new coach

By Diana Giunta Senior Staff Writer

The Vermont sailing team announced on Feb. 29 the hiring of a new head coach for the team this upcoming season, as David Thompson took position at the helm of the program.

Thompson graduated in 2011 from Hobart College and was a member of the Hobart William Smith varsity sailing team for his four years at the school.

Thompson was also named team captain for the 2010-2011 season in college and was the season’s MVP. The Intercollegiate Sailing Association named Thompson an All-American Skipper for 2010-2011.

Thompson worked as an assistant coach for the 2011 fall season at Hobart William Smith and will carry this coaching experience into the head spot at Vermont.

athletetweets Thank you to everyone for the bday wishes and the congrats. As always...

BIG DOGS GOTTA EAT. LITTLE WOLFIES STAY ON THE PORCH. #aechamps

Ben Crenca

Junior forward for UVM men’s basketball @BruceChen42

Cccchhhhaaammmmppppsssss!!!!!!

Four Mcglynn

First-year guard for UVM men’s basketball

@fourbb_4

@UVMSkiing NCAA Champions!!!

Johnny Davidson

Assistant Alpine coach for UVM skiing @jddavids

of sports: intramurals at UVM

Offering an alternative to varsity sports for athletes

By Julia Dwyer Assistant Sports Editor

As is common on college campuses, much attention is given to Division I and club sports.

For individuals that wish to get in on sports action without the high level commitment and pressure, UVM intramural sports offer an arena for sport goers to enjoy lively competition.

Levels of competition, from determined to goofy, are seen year-round in play. Teams playing intramural sports are typically groups of friends, which adds fuel to the entertaining environment on the field.

Sports to choose from range from broomball and ice hockey to dodgeball and indoor soccer.

There are also multiple divisions: men’s, women’s and corecreational leagues are available for play.

Within those divisions, indoor soccer, ice hockey, squash and tennis, CoRec Broomball, and 5-on-5 basketball offer A and B leagues. Leagues designated as A leagues contain more advanced players, while B leagues range from beginners to intermediates.

Individuals’ experiences in intramural sports are highly varied. Many students find themselves seeking to play a sport that they were involved in during high school.

“I love intramurals because

I miss sports so much,” Billy Harney, a member of the men’s soccer league, said. “Intramurals allow an environment that allows healthy competitiveness that ends when the whistle goes.

It’s a perfect little reminder of high school sports and lets the blood get flowing.”

“Intramurals allow an envionrment that allows healthy competitiveness that ends when the whistle goes. It’s a perfect little reminder of high school sports and lets the blood get flowing.”

Billy Harney Men’s intramural soccer league member Students participating in intramural sports are not limited to being players. The referees that conduct every intramural game are also students. Refs similarly find a sense of fun during games.

“The funniest part of my job is watching students try to run on the ice,” broomball ref Dylan

White said. “Some of them are amazingly well-balanced, but others take some pretty funny falls – sometimes it can be hard not to laugh when a player falls down,” While an emphasis on having fun is a typical component, these games are not devoid of heated competitions. Intramural sports games can regularly include protests and heated arguments.

“I have witnessed quite a few intense arguments and a small fight,” referee Cyrus Carey said.

“I try to take comments with a grain of salt and always try to remind them that this is intramural sports and they are supposed to be having fun.”

Being a ref to peers can sometimes include additional pressures.

“Sometimes it is difficult for people playing to put themselves in the shoes of the referee who is a student just like them, and is doing the best job they can,” Carey said.

Being an intramural ref is a viable job offered by campus recreation for those interested in sporting competitions and getting on their feet for work.

“The job isn’t a huge time commitment,” White said. “At the beginning of the year there are a couple of training days, but throughout the semester you work a couple of nights a week, totaling about five to eight hours.”

16

S P O RT S

THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012

Men’s lacrosse gets off to rough start

By Taylor Feuss Staff Writer

Coming off a disappointing 2011 season, the members of the men’s lacrosse team are hoping for a better outcome in this spring’s season.

Finishing the previous year with a losing record of 6-9, Vermont was eager to start a fresh new season in January.

We’re a very close group, very driven toward our goals,” said senior Geoff Worley. “For as many times that we failed last year, we should be that much better this year.”

“We’re a very close group, very driven toward our goal. For as many times that we failed last year, we should be that much better this year.”

Geoff Worley Senior The Vermont coaching staff looked to improve both the individual skills of their young players, and the overall team work ethic in their intense preseason.

With a roster of primarily first-years, this team of 35 will need both mental and physical conditioning to be able to dominate this year.

“Our guys are aware of what it takes now — there’s a thin line between winning and losing a game,” returning head coach Ryan Curtis said.

After three of their starting defensemen graduated, the lack of underclassman game experience seems to be the main issue for the Cats. However, Curtis has remained hopeful and holds high expectations for his young team.

“I think we’re in pretty good shape right now, and the guys are all excited to get started,” Curtis said, prior to the team’s first game.

On Feb. 18, the Cats traveled to New York in their first match out to compete against the No. 19 Colgate.

Led by first-year Andrew Buckanavage, who scored the Cat’s first goal of the game — and the first of his career — UVM seemed to be meshing well together. The Raiders, however, took the 4-3 lead at the half and later outscored UVM 10-6.

“Tough game today,” Curtis said of the loss to Colgate. “I thought we looked a little wideeyed out there and struggled to stick to our game plan. Small things hurt us.”

Unfortunately, UVM’s luck has not improved as they’ve moved forward into their season.

Over the past two weeks, UVM has been matched up against top teams such as Harvard, Bryant and Virginia.

Yet to host a game, the Cats have been unable to pull it together and outscore any, failing to

MICHAEL CHAUCER-TORELLO The Vermont Cynic

Vermont first-year Dyson White cradles the ball in a game against Hartford, April 16, 2011. After a disappointing 2010-2011 season and a winless start to this season, the Catamounts hope to rebound. come within four points of their opponents.

On Sunday, March 11, the Catamounts had their home opener on the recently opened Virtue Field, matched up against No. 17 Fairfield. In the fifth game of their season, the team had high hopes to end their “dry spell.”

“We’re used to each other, how we play. When we’re on, we’re very dangerous on offense,” Worley said. “It’s fun because it’s the first time we’ve really been this potent since I’ve

been here. When we get going we’re very hard to stop.”

The Cats were led in scoring against Fairfield by junior Drew Philie and sophomore Connor McNamara, notching a pair of goals each, along with Worley, who racked up a goal and two assists.

Unfortunately for the men in green and gold, their efforts weren’t enough and they were unable to come within seven points of the Stags, leaving the score at 14-7 in favor of the visitors.

They suffered another tough loss to Holy Cross on March 13, falling 8-9 on the road.

This devastating loss brings Vermont further down, dropping them to an overall record of 0-6.

Keeping up with the Catamount spirit, the team is holding their heads high and doing their best to continue to strive for their first win.

They hope to accomplish this as they will host Sacred Heart on March 17.