F O U RT H E S TAT E November 12, 2018
GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY'S STUDENT NEWSPAPER
Volume 6 Issue 10
THE EQUAL RIGHTS AMENDMENT
IS YOUR
page 6
VAPE SAFE? News page 10
PREDICTING MASON BASKETBALL FOR THE 2018-19
SEASON
Sports page 12
CELEBRATING NATIONAL DURAG WEEK
Culture page 17
THE BODY
POSITIVITY PROBLEM Opinions page 25
@ivestate | gmufourthestate.com
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THE FOURTH ESTATE
11.12.2018
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE
ALEXANDER SHEDD Editor-in-Chief
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
BASMA HUMADI Managing Editor IZZ LAMAGDELEINE Copy Chief
Dear Patriots, It seems we can all shift gears slowly to begin prep for Thanksgiving. I don’t know about you, but I’m especially excited for pumpkin pie—and to see my family after dealing with a lot of schoolwork and stress. This week, you can read more about research showing a rise of vapes randomly exploding, as well as the correlation between changing immigration policy and scientific development in the STEM field. In our Culture section we covered National Durag Week, which was hosted by Mason’s My Natural and Collegiate Black Men (CBM). One of our writers also sat down and talked to Mark Rozell, the dean of the Schar School of Policy and Government. In Sports and Opinion, read on to hear an interesting take on the JC preachers on campus, as well as men’s and women’s basketball predictions. I’m proud we’ve been able to establish a pretty consistent comic section this school year. If you’re interested in submitting some of your own work, feel free to send us an email. We’ll be taking a break for a bit because of Thanksgiving, so expect to see our next issue out December 3. As always, if you have any questions, submissions, comments or concerns, feel free to send us an email at masonfourthestate@gmail.com. Sincerely,
HUONG CAO LIZ ELKIND OWEN FERGUSON Copy Editors DANA NICKEL News Editor ABIGAIL ADCOX Assistant News Editor MONICA ECHOLS Culture Editor HAILEY BULLIS Assistant Culture Editor JAMIE BELIVEAU Opinions Editor NATALIE HEAVREN Sports Editor DOMENIC ALLEGRA Assistant Sports Editor LAUREN SULLIVAN OLIVIA VERMANE Longform Editors KRISTEN TALMAN GMU Korea Coordinator
Basma Humadi Managing Editor
ALLIE THOMPSON Photo Editor
We are always recruiting volunteers for: For all inquiries, please email - WRITERS - VIDEOGRAPHERS - ILLUSTRATORS - COPY EDITORS - PHOTOGRAPHERS
a resume and cover letter or sample to: masonfourthestate@gmail.com
ALEXANDRIA MCALPINE Art Director BILLY FERGUSON Online Director ANDREA LUGO LAURA SCUDDER Social Media Editors DOMINIQUE BERNARDINO Multimedia Editor EMMETT SMITH Distribution Manager KATHRYN MANGUS Director DAVID CARROLL Associate Director
Corrections:
JASON HARTSEL Assistant Director
Jack Harvey wrote the Ethical Hacking story last week Mahogani Harper was incorrectly referred to with a male pronoun in the Redefining Gender story
George Mason University Mail stop 2C5 4400 University Drive Fairfax, Va. 22030 Phone 703-993-2950
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COVER PHOTO CREDITS Photos Courtesy of Allie Thompson
FOURTH ESTATE ALLIE THOMPSON
11.12.2018
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MASON’S VOTING RATES SPIKE
Democrats swing House in the most well-attended vote in decades JACK HARVEY STAFF WRITER
The Democratic party has gained a majority in the House of Representatives following what is estimated to be the highest voter turnout since 1966, according to NBC News. The Republican majority was maintained in the Senate.
of votes at the university precinct. Stewart received 10.35% of the votes.
but not by CRs. The question still received a “yes” in Fairfax County.
These numbers differ significantly from Kaine and Stewart’s performances in Virginia overall, where Kaine received 56 percent of votes and Stewart received 41 percent.
Many Mason students and faculty voted at the Mason precinct, located in Merten Hall. Campaign signs, primarily for Sen. Tim Kaine, lined the way there.
Likewise, while Connolly won his seat in the 11th District with 71 percent of votes, he received 83 percent of the votes at the university precinct.
The neighboring 10th Congressional District includes Loudoun and parts of Fairfax and Prince William Counties. Its incumbent, Barbara Comstock (R), lost to Jennifer Wexton (D) by approximately 45,000 votes. Wexton received 56.09 percent of votes, according to the Virginia Department of Elections.
Several student organizations including Student Media, Student Government, George Mason Democrats (GMU Dems) and George Mason College Republicans (CRs) were set up outside Merten Hall. In total, the precinct saw nearly 1,700 votes cast by the time the polls closed, according to the Virginia Department of Elections. The precinct is part of Virginia’s 11th Congressional District. On the ballot were Senate candidates Corey Stewart (R), Tim Kaine (D) and Matt Waters (L), and House of Representatives candidates Jeff Dove Jr. (R), Gerry Connolly (D) and Stevan Porter (L). Kaine, who was re-elected to serve in the Senate, received 86.4 percent
Aside from congressional candidates, the ballot also included two constitutional amendments, as well as spending on public safety bonds for Fairfax County. The amendments both had to do with tax exemptions, one for property prone to flooding and another regarding the benefits spouses of veterans can receive after moving to a different primary residence. Both GMU Dems and CRs passed out sample ballots that urged voters to vote “yes” on the amendments. Both amendments were passed in the election. Spending on public safety bonds was endorsed by GMU Dems,
“The Virginia 10th … we’re really hoping that that seat flips, because that will be the last red seat to go blue in Northern Virginia, which is what we’re waiting for,” said Camden Layton, GMU Dems’ chief of staff. Students shared their primary reasons for voting, focusing largely on the prospect of a possible party shift in the House of Representatives. Malik Wyatt, a sophomore studying computer science, stated, “I voted Democratic … I really like Tim Kaine ... Personally, I feel like voting [in] this election was important because there were a lot of things in the House right now that were set in stone by Republicans, and if we can get the Democratic party in the House and veto a lot of these things.”
Grant Stewart, a freshman studying cyber security, said, “I don’t believe in higher taxes to people who make more money ... that’s probably my primary reason for voting Republican … Right now, maintaining majority of the House [is important] if we want to get things done.” “What’s important to me when I vote is just making sure that everyone is taken care of,” said Rachel Stephenson, a first-year master’s psychology student about her philosophy in regard to voting. “I think everyone has rights, and I want to make sure that everyone gets their rights.” Certain students experienced trouble casting votes. Emily Beck, a junior and business management major who had registered to vote at Mason, was told that her registration was changed to another address. “I had registered with my campus address … I went online, and it’s now showing that my polling place is in Sterling instead of Fairfax … I now have to walk 15 minutes through the rain to my car and drive 45 minutes [to my polling station,]” Beck stated. She said that she was still planning to vote despite this setback.
Country-wide, Democrats have gained significant ground in the House of Representatives, going from 194 seats to 225 seats as of Friday morning. This gives the party a majority of 51.7 percent, according to the Associated Press. Not all elections were concluded directly following the election. A recount was triggered in Florida because of a particularly close margin between Republican candidate Rick Scott and Democratic candidate Bill Nelson, both running for Senate. President Trump has expressed skepticism at the recount, tweeting, “Law Enforcement is looking into another big corruption scandal having to do with Election Fraud in #Broward and Palm Beach. Florida voted for Rick Scott!” Also of note is the close senate race in Arizona, which shifted from a plurality for Republican candidate Martha McSally to a plurality of 49.1 percent for Democratic candidate Kyrsten Sinema as districts continued reporting. As of Friday morning, Sinema led by a mere 9,000 votes, according to CNN. The race is meant to fill the vacancy left by retiring Arizona Senator Jeff Flake.
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GREG MILLER’S LATEST BOOK, “THE APPRENTICE”
FORMER MASON STUDENT FOUND DEAD Saudi Arabian sisters found bound together in the Hudson River
MARNIA TONEY STAFF WRITER
It was a chilly day in New York City when the bodies of sisters Tala Farea, 16, and Rotana Farea, 23, were found on the shore of the Hudson River. The bodies were loosely bound by duct tape and showed no external signs of trauma. Water in their lungs indicated that they were alive when they entered the water. The Farea sisters disappeared from Fairfax, Virginia, on Aug. 23. According to The Washington Post, police discovered receipts indicating “various forms of transportation, arriving in New York City around Sept. 1.” Mason officials confirmed that Rotana was enrolled in the university until last spring, when she dropped out according to The Washington Post. Tala was a student at Fairfax High School. Not much else is known about the sisters. However, this disappearance was not their first. The Washington Post reported that Chief of Detectives, Dermot Shea, began his file on the sisters back in 2017. In December of that year, the Farea sisters ran away, but were found a day later and transferred to a shelter after allegations of domestic abuse. Further details on these allegations have not been released. The sisters’ mother remains here in Fairfax. A Saudi embassy official said that they had communicated with her about her expired immigration status, according to The Washington Post. Unnamed police
sources reported to the New York Times that it was not known whether or not the sisters applied for asylum. The Saudi government allocated about $6 billion to fund education through the King Abdullah Scholarship Program. This program began in 2005 with an agreement between Abdullah and President George W. Bush to increase the number of Saudi students in the U.S. It is still the largest scholarship program in Saudi Arabia, according to the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission. This scholarship program funds 90 percent of study-abroad programs for Saudi students, according to Forbes. Back in 2015, tighter restrictions on the program led to a decrease in funding. Applications dipped by 27 percent, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Miller discusses challenges of being a journalist in D.C. OLIVIA VERMANE LONGFORM EDITOR
On the eve of the midterm elections, Mason hosted a discussion between Washington Post national security reporter Greg Miller and Gen. Michael V. Hayden, founder of the Hayden Center. Miller’s 2018 novel “The Apprentice” was the main topic of the night. Released in October, the book covers the two years of controversy over Russia’s involvement with President Trump during the 2016 election brought. Larry Pfeiffer, executive director of the Hayden Center, opened the evening with an emphasis on the importance of understanding national security. “We here at the Schar School and the Hayden Center are dedicated to educating and informing our students about national security and the role intelligence plays in national security,” said Pfeiffer. Pfeiffer described Miller’s book as “the most comprehensive examination of the subversion of our election.”
Writing the book posed a challenge for Miller. He had to keep track of events, both major and minor, as they were unfolding. “We’ve never lived through anything like this,” said Miller. “This story has been all-consuming and disorienting at times.” He recalled keeping a timeline of the Russia investigation as it progressed, which allowed Miller to find connections that would have otherwise fallen through the cracks and helped him to piece together information in a comprehensive way. Miller also recalled the difficulty of being involved in stories that negatively affected people he had personal connections with through both “The Apprentice” and The Washington Post. Miller mentioned his relationship with Michael Flynn, Trump’s former national security advisor, who was arrested and charged last fall with lying to the FBI. Miller spoke about the difficulty of covering the
events surrounding Flynn, whom he had known for over a decade. “It really has given me no pleasure to be part of the team at The Washington Post that was writing the stories that forced him out of office,” said Miller. Hayden and Miller discussed the challenges of working in journalism amid the Trump administration’s politics and reporting the facts without appearing to be “the opposition or the resistance” in any situation. “It’s hard, harder than any other time I can recall in my career, to hold your balance,” said Miller. “We are, quite literally, under attack. Day after day we are accused of being fake, being the enemy of the people.” Miller described the difficulty of having personal reactions and connections to what is happening around him, yet having to maintain professionalism as a journalist. Miller also emphasized the need to avoid feeding into the narrative that the media are the enemy of the people, as well as not taking it personally.
“Now, for [Saudi] students who want to study outside the country with government aid, they need be enrolled in one of the top 50 academic programs for their field or at one of the top 100 universities in the world,” explained an article published by Forbes. A woman in their hometown of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, spoke to The Washington Post. “They were very much looking forward to going to the U.S., and had always encouraged my niece to do the same,” she said. “… ‘Study hard and get out to the U.S.!’” Not much is known about the motivation for the sisters’ deaths, but the story is still developing.
FOURTH ESTATE IBRAHIM AHMAD
FOURTH ESTATE ALLIE THOMPSON
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MIDTERMS BRING RE-ELECTION FOR SENATOR TIM KAINE
Kaine celebrates reelection and other Democratic victories in Virginia DANA NICKEL NEWS EDITOR
In Virginia, the race between incumbent Sen. Tim Kaine and challenger Corey Stewart was called in favor of Kaine shortly after the polls closed on Tuesday, Nov. 6. Kaine received 56.9 percent of the vote, while Stewart fell short with 41.2 percent. At Mason’s Fairfax precinct, Kaine received 84.6 percent of the vote. Stewart only took 10.35 percent. Many of Kaine’s friends, family members, supporters and staff attended his watch party in Falls Church on election night, and celebrated his and other Democrats’ victories across Virginia and the U.S. Among the attendees was Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax. “I am so proud of [Kaine] for his victory,” stated Fairfax. “I am also so
proud of the great progressive energy we are showing here in Virginia and across the country tonight.” The celebration took place in a Marriott Hotel ballroom, with televisions lining the walls providing live coverage of the election results from CNN and MSNBC. The crowd of Kaine supporters mingled and discussed their hopes for candidates like Jennifer Wexton, Abigail Spanberger, Leslie Cockburn and Elaine Luria as the results came in. Kaine took the stage with his family to address his victory and thank his supporters and staff for all their hard work. “These races aren’t for the swift, they’re for the sure of heart,” Kaine said in his victory speech. “We persist not because of style, but because we’re sure of heart.” Many Kaine supporters also volunteered for other Democratic candidates in Virginia, like the George
Mason Democrats (GMU Dems). Campaign work began for GMU Dems the day college students returned to campus at the beginning of this semester. Members of the group gathered multiple times per week, every week, until Election Day. They made phone calls to potential voters for both candidates in Virginia and in other competitive races across the U.S., like Beto O’Rourke in Texas. “We actually broke our record for voter contacts,” said the vice president of GMU Dems, Alec Scicchitano. Scicchitano elaborated that voter contacts include registering students to vote at Mason, calling voters across the country, canvassing in neighboring towns and texting voters to remind them about Election Day. Last year, GMU Dems contacted 68,711 voters. This year, they reached an estimated 248,364. “We started having these marathon
phone-banking sessions,” recalled Camden Layton, GMU Dems’ chief of staff. He explained that students would meet on campus and spend up to 6 hours at a time calling voters. These “marathon phone-banking sessions” occurred regularly starting a month before Election Day. Other politicians in attendance at Kaine’s party applauded the efforts of young volunteers like GMU Dems. Virginia State Delegate Mark Keam stressed the importance of young people’s participation in the political process.
FOURTH ESTATE DANA NICKEL
The midterm elections kept the country in suspense as both Republicans and Democrats gained and lost seats in the House of Representatives and Senate.
“It’s young people that are setting up for the next generations,” Keam said. “I am so proud of all of [them] that were out there voting and working hard.”
MASON PROFESSOR BANNED FROM FOX Students and faculty call for Chris Farrell’s removal APRIL HORENCY STAFF WRITER
On “Lou Dobbs Tonight,” Farrell claimed that after spending time covering the migrant caravan travelling through Latin America to the U.S. border, he had reason to believe that it was being funded by a “Soros-occupied State Department.” The reference to George Soros, a Jewish billionaire and philanthropist, has been accused of being anti-Semitic. For decades, the Hungarian-born Soros has been used as a scapegoat in the U.S. as well as Eastern Europe in defamatory
attacks sometimes considered stereotypical against Jewish people. Soros has been the recent target of several anti-Semitic conspiracy theories by white nationalists. His organization, Open Society Foundations, is an international grant writing organization that supports civil society groups and progressive political causes. It has denied any involvement in the migrant caravan. Soros also received threats around the time of the Oct. 27 mass shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue and was also a target in a string of pipe bomb deliveries discovered on Oct. 23. Students such as Dan Kling, co-president of the Israel Student Association and vice president of Mason’s Jewish fraternity, have made their stance clear. “I think any professor who has implicit
biases against any group of people should not be allowed to continue at the university,” Kling said. “We promote diversity and inclusion as well as higher learning, and a professor who contributes to bigoted conspiracy theories is in favor of neither.” Professors, students and alumni have signed an open letter in which they collectively condemned Farrell’s statement, according to The Washington Post. As of this article’s writing, the letter has received 162 signatures. In addition to condemning his remarks, the letter states, “While we respect Professor Farrell’s right to speak freely on matters of public concern, we exercise that same right by stating that Professor Farrell does not speak for George Mason University.” Fox
and
Mason
have
both
officially condemned Farrell’s statement, but in different ways. Mason journalism program coordinator and professor Kate Sweeney declined to give a statement.
Pittsburgh
synagogue
shooting.
Farrell was contacted but did not respond for comment.
Mason’s director of strategic communications, Mike Sandler, referred to a formal statement given by President Ángel Cabrera regarding the incident when asked for comment. “When our faculty speaks to the media, our expectation is that they will elevate the conversation and educate the public,” Cabrera said. “This instructor did neither.” According to The Washington Post, Farrell’s statement did not receive considerable backlash following the show’s original airing. It first evoked outrage when the program was aired again after the
PHOTO COURTESY OF JUDICIAL WATCH
Chris Farrell, a journalism professor at Mason and director of investigations and research for the conservative watchdog organization Judicial Watch, has been banned from speaking on both Fox News and Fox Business Network over claims he made on a program that aired Oct. 25.
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ACTIVISTS AND POLITICIANS GATHER AT MASON TO SUPPORT ERA
Women demand equality in this genERAtion
DANA NICKEL NEWS EDITOR
the Constitution. Politicians like representatives Gerry Connolly and Carolyn Maloney have attempted to ratify ERA every term they have served in the House since they were first elected. Maloney, who is related to the famous suffragette and author of ERA Alice Paul, has lead the fight in Congress to ratify ERA. Maloney stated that ERA would finally put women on equal footing in legal systems in every state in the U.S., not just the states that have ratified ERA on their own. “We are here because we have unfinished business,” Virginia House Delegate Jennifer Carroll Foy announced over a hushed crowd at Mason. “Women are not entitled to equality under the United States Constitution.” The crowd was gathered outside of Mason’s Ike’s Dining Hall on Nov. 11 to listen to community activists and elected officials discuss their plans to make Virginia the 38th state to pass the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). If Virginia passes ERA, there would officially be enough states that have ratified ERA to make it an amendment in the U.S. Constitution. The event, 10 Days of ERA Bus Tour, began on Nov. 9 in Williamsburg at the College of William and Mary. The bus tour came from Richmond to Mason for its third day through Virginia. The goal of the bus tour is to raise awareness about ERA to people across the state. Lisa Sales, the Fairfax County commissioner explained the importance of this event. “I found that there was a real connection between violence against women and equality.” “I’m originally from California where [ERA] was ratified in the 1970s,” Sales continued, “so when I learned that Virginia had not ratified [ERA] I honestly felt so ignorant, but I got smart really quick.” Sales coordinated with the organizers of 10 Days of ERA Bus Tour to ensure that it would make one of its stops at Mason. Sales explained that
she wanted to make sure all Mason students were aware that ERA has not been ratified in the Constitution or in Virginia.
Connolly, an original co-sponsor of ERA with Molaney, explained that this time around, the chance of ratifying ERA feels different.
“I think a lot of women and men just expect that [ERA] is already [in the Constitution],” explained Kati Hornung, one of the minds behind the 10 Days of ERA Bus Tour.
“There’s just so much going on right now,” he stated. “With the #MeToo Movement and all the misogyny coming out of Donald Trump’s mouth and the White House, there’s this growing sense of both alarm at what’s happening in this country and hope for the opportunities available to respond to [misogyny].”
Hornung recalled the moment she realized that women’s rights were not protected in the Constitution: “My daughter, who was nine at the time, approached me and said ‘Mom, did you know that Thomas Jefferson did not actually mean all men when he wrote ‘all men are created equal,’ and he definitely didn’t mean any women.’” “A lot of people think that the 14th Amendment covers gender discrimination and it kind of does because that’s where we get the intermediate scrutiny level from.” She continued, “But the 14th Amendment only gives strict scrutiny to race, religion and country of origin. Because they wrote women out of that amendment, they give us intermediate scrutiny.” According US Legal, intermediate and strict scrutiny are both constitutional law terms that are applied to test whether or not a law is constitutional. Intermediate scrutiny is less rigorous than strict scrutiny. Strict scrutiny is considered to be the highest standard of review for when courts determine whether or not laws are constitutional. In reality, 94 percent of Americans believe that ERA should be ratified in
“This election was driven and organized by women,” he continued. “Women took the lead this time in a very positive way, and that’s creating very positive results.” Connolly and Molaney both credited Carroll Foy for bringing ERA to Virginia. Carroll Foy was elected into the Virginia House of Delegates in November 2017 and is going to carry ERA in the House of Delegates in January 2019, when their legislative session begins. House Delegate Hala Ayala is also sponsoring ERA. Foy is hopeful that ERA will be ratified in Virginia in 2019. She also expressed the importance of the intersectional benefits of ratifying ERA in Virginia and in the U.S. “This will not only benefit
some [women] but all women, especially minority women and women of color.” Foy explained that ratifying ERA would mean equal pay for all women in the U.S. According to a 2017 report by the AAUW, Asian women make 85 percent of what white men make. White women make 77 percent of what white men make, and African American women make 61 percent of what white men make. Additionally, Native American women make 58 percent of what white men make, and Hispanic and Latina women make 53 percent of what white men make. The way the crowd so enthusiastically gathered outside in the cold weather at Mason to listen to elected officials and activists describe their hopes for ERA to finally pass in Virginia and become an amendment in the Constitution reflected
Hornung’s belief in what will finally make ERA become ratified in the Constitution. “This only gets done when average Virginians step up to the plate and hold our politicians accountable.” She concluded, “We need to say ‘Not one more generation. We are done with this. It’s 2018 and we need this done.”
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ROUNDUP
JALEN REID STAFF WRITER
During executive reports, the president and vice president highlighted successful events this semester such as the Consent Carnival and Yard Fest. They then went on to talk about new developments and upcoming events. Recently, President Bekah Pettine, Vice President Erik Truong and Chief of Staff Adanna Newby met with the executive branch of the student body and the provost of Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) to discuss the launch of ADVANCE.
This is a partnership between the two schools designed to ease the transition from NOVA to Mason. It includes helping NOVA students to transfer credits and become acclimated with Mason life.
During the Oct. 25 meeting, three bills and two resolutions were passed in second reading. B#11, a bill to allocate funds for What Do You Want Wednesday, was passed that allocates $1,000 to the biweekly event.
Pettine also mentioned that a new system called Star-Res will be replacing eLiving next year. The goal is to increase efficiency and convenience in housing registration.
B#12 allocated $475 for veterans’ care packages that include toiletry and hygiene products, snacks and playing cards.
The undersecretary for housing, Taylor Moore, has a number of prospective initiatives. One of these would start a system of communication between students and Housing so that students would not be blindsided by maintenance crews showing up at odd times.
support on-campus news outlet The George, was passed. During the Nov. 1 meeting, two resolutions and one bill were passed in second reading. R#14, a resolution to establish the Patriots in Action 2018 campaign against sexual assault, was passed. R#16, a resolution to recognize
academic excellence, was passed. With this, members of the Academic Committee would vote on students to be recognized. B#21, a bill to allocate funds for Gold Rush 2018, was also passed. It included an investment of $2,950 to the event.
B#14, a bill to allocate funds for Rock the Vote 2018, was also passed,along with R#15, a resolution to support Rock the Vote 2018.It included $300 for hot chocolate and disposable cups to pass out to students on Election Day.
FOURTH ESTATE JALEN REID
In the span of two Student Government (SG) meetings, legislation has been passed to allocate funds for a variety of events set to take place in upcoming months.
Additionally, R#13, a resolution to
IMMIGRATION POLICY COULD HARM SCIENTIFIC DEVELOPMENT Mason professors study effects of restricted immigration IZZ LAMAGDELEINE COPY CHIEF
The institute’s research has focused on the effects that tightening immigration policy has on U.S. science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) research. “We noticed that of the American [Nobel Prize] winners, many of them were actually immigrants who have been born somewhere else but did their research in the U.S.,” Waslin said. “This year, there were no immigrants in the U.S. that were Nobel Prize winners.” Under the Trump administration, the number of immigrants who have been allowed into the U.S. has dropped from 45,000 to 30,000 people, a record low. It is expected that in addition to
restricting individual scientists from immigrating into the country, even if they are allowed in, their spouses will not.
Within the U.S., anti-immigration rhetoric is also believed to harm immigrant families whose children wish to enter STEM fields.
student studying global affairs. He switched from a biology major to a minor when he realized he wanted to focus more on helping others.
“So they’re going to become Americans,” Waslin said. “They’re going to become permanent citizens. But still [their] spouses will not be able to work. I think that’s really troubling, because … families are going to have a hard time living on one salary.”
Aaron Escobar, a junior physics major, wishes to teach in a STEM field one day. He believes that the current education system is inadequate for students of color and immigrants.
“The reason why I decided to change my major from biology to global affairs was because of my passion to give back to the community,” FloresSantos said. “That was more of a focus and a passion for me.”
Waslin believes that current immigration policy could hinder future scientific breakthroughs, as scientists can continue their research elsewhere. “The worst-case scenario is that the world’s best and brightest are going to go to other countries, and we’re going to see scientific discoveries and major advancements in other countries that may have otherwise have been happening here in the U.S.,” she said. “I think that some of the students, rather than staying here and working here, are going to take their degrees and go somewhere else,” Waslin continued. “That means that we’ve spent all of this time educating people, and then they go off and become the competition.”
“With immigration, it sucks because the current system doesn’t help students [who] have that passion for science,” Escobar said. “Every time I tell someone I’m a physics major and I want to be an educator, they’re like, ‘Oh, physics,’ and there isn’t that love for the sciences, and that’s because the ... school systems don’t really help and uplift young people of color within the sciences.” This is also true for Rolando FloresSantos, a graduate
He continued, “The [Trump] administration’s response is kind of like, ‘Well, science is a hoax. Climate change isn’t a thing,’ [about] all these things that are actually true. And when immigration comes into play, that really shapes the people that are coming into the states and the educational resources that they have.”
FOURTH ESTATE GRANT SMITH
When people discuss immigration, they often focus on the most visible effects, such as the controversial policies and decisions made by the Trump administration. However, other results of immigration restrictions can be just as impactful, like how they could harm scientific development in the country. This is a question that Director James Witte and Program Coordinator Michele Waslin of Mason’s Institute for Immigration Research have been investigating.
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THE POWER OF LOVE AND HATE Holocaust memorial event focuses on rising above hate SAMI GIBBS STAFF WRITER
This year’s memorial was particularly somber. The event was held a month after a nearby Jewish Community Center was vandalized with swastikas, and just over a week after a shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue, Tree of Life, that killed 11, making it the deadliest act of anti-Semitism that has ever occured in the U.S. Mason Hillel President Chanel Shirzi revealed that this year’s theme was inspired by the range of emotions encompassed in Jews’ experiences. “We have experienced discrimination for 3,000 years, and the Holocaust is only one of our tragedies,” said Shirzi. “But we value community and strength and what we can achieve together.” Expressions of the Holocaust was planned months ago, but accommodations were made to honor the victims of the Tree of Life shooting. Those killed were commemorated at the start of the event with a moment of silence after each victim’s name was read by Shirazi. Each speaker who followed mentioned the attack.
PHOTO COURTESY OF GEORGE MASON POLICE
MASON WEEKLY CRIME LOG
Mason President Ángel Cabrera was the first speaker to welcome attendees. Cabrera reflected on Mason’s motto, “Freedom and Learning,” and said the students who planned and helped with the event exemplify that philosophy. Jeff Dannick, director of the Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia, and Del. Eileen Filler-Corn, VA-41, gave personal testimonies from their experiences as Jews and public servants, and how the power of love can overcome the power of hate. Filler-Corn asserted that there are a variety of ways to show the power of love. “Improving the world is an act of leadership and an opportunity to reflect on the past,” she added. Dannick said that the genocide of Jews has the potential to recur and, while the Jewish community has come far in the U.S., it still has a journey ahead. “I can’t distinct between the anti-Semitism of yesterday and the anti-Semitism of today,” he said. Kenna Laelle, a member of Mason Hillel and Chabad and co-president of the Israel Student Association, revealed that her experiences were similar to Dannick’s. “It’s difficult for me to think that the best way to respond to anti-Semitism is with love,” Laelle said. Keynote speaker and professor in Mason’s School for Conflict Analysis
and Resolution Dr. Marc Gopin stressed the importance of minorities needing to “love each other,” and how we all should strive to “understand the dynamics of why anger yields hatred yields violence.” Gopin continued, “We have to unite our rational part of the brain with the part of [the] brain that stores love and compassion to build a more compassionate world.” Perhaps the highlight of Expressions of The Holocaust was the presence of seven Holocaust survivors, who shared their stories and perspectives in a fairly personal setting.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PICRYL/CAROL M. HIGHSMITH
Mason Hillel hosted the annual memorial Expressions of the Holocaust Nov. 4. This year’s theme was “The Power of Hate and the Power of Love.” The room was filled with Mason students, community members and Holocaust survivors reflecting on the event’s theme.
One survivor, Irene Rehbock, endured being separated from her family for years in different concentration camps. Rehbock asserted that events like this memorial help continue the conversation on anti-Semitism and how people can address it.
Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018 - Fairfax Campus, 12:06 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018 - Fairfax Campus, Unknown
Drug/Narcotic Violations: Subject (GMU) was issued a releasable summons for possessing illegal drugs.
Larceny: Complainant (GMU) reported the theft of a secured bicycle from a bike rack.
Case 2018-011017 - Cleared by Summons
Case 2018-011110 - Inactive
Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2018 - Arlington Campus, 9:40-8:00 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018 - Fairfax Campus, Multiple times
Theft from Building/ Credit Card/ Automatic Teller Machine Fraud: Complainant (GMU) reported unauthorized use of stolen credit cards.
Stalking: Complainant (GMU) reported receiving unwanted contact from a known Subject (GMU) on multiple occasions. Due to confidentiality of reporting, limited information is available, regarding this incident.
Case 2018-011071 - Pending
Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018 - Fairfax Campus/Student Housing Facility, Multiple times Stalking/ Harassment by Computer/ Intimidation: Complainant (GMU) reported receiving unwanted contact from an unknown Subject on multiple occasions. Case 2018-011095 - Pending
CSA Report #110818-2 - Information Only Friday, Nov. 9, 2018 - Fairfax Campus, 12:11 a.m. Liquor Law Violations / Medical Assist: Subject (GMU) was transported to Inova Access Hospital by emergency medical services for overconsumption of alcohol and also referred to Office of Student Conduct (OSC) for possessing alcohol while under age 21. Case 2018-011138 - Referred to OSC
NEWS
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE
11.12.2018
9
WEEDING OUT STUDENTS IN STEM
Students and College of Science faculty describe their experiences with STEM SABIHA BASIT STAFF WRITER
Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are known to be difficult fields that involve the development of key skills such as critical thinking, complex problem solving, computational analysis and mathematical modeling. Although gaining these skills are useful for one’s career, the rigorous curriculum of STEM courses can hinder students from completing their major requirements. About half of undergraduate STEM degree candidates leave their field before completing a bachelor’s degree, according to a report by the U.S. Education Department’s National Center for Education Statistics. One of the reasons may be “weed-out” classes, which are typically large entry-level courses designed to be difficult so that students can decide whether they wish to continue in their field. Diana Guillen-Piazza, a learning assistant for Human Geography and student advisor for the Department of Geography and GeoInformation
Science, shared her thoughts on why some STEM students do not make it through. “I think the big scare for STEM students is math,” said GuillenPiazza. “[For example], calculus weeds people out. Many of my peers have complained about general and organic chemistry, and have switched to pursuing a liberal arts degree.”
anonymous student, who will go by the pseudonym Elizabeth, came forward about dropping the course’s laboratory twice since being at Mason.
“I think they weed out the class because they over-stack, and they don’t focus on students’ learning,” Guillen-Piazza continued. “The problem is that you have 60 people for one class that is already hard, and you can’t really help the student unless students are attending office hours.”
“I feel as though the [Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry] grades too harshly in lab and they don’t do a great job at presenting the material in lecture,” said Elizabeth. “They don’t give students the opportunity to excel when they’re constantly taking off points for things as silly as format. I don’t believe [the] grades that people are given are a representation of their ability, because classes have a class average of a 50 percent on every exam, and then they curve up to a B for everyone’s final grade.”
Guillen-Piazza was a double major and double minor who went through her own share of tough classes. She offered advice to students who find themselves discouraged by problems with their STEM classes.
Elizabeth continued, “It’s hard to gauge how well you’re going to do when your grade is so deflated, and that’s why I feel like a lot of students drop. [My lab partner] dropped for the same reasons.”
“Find something you’re passionate about, and [start] reaching out if you’re getting jaded,” Guillen-Piazza stated. “It’s up to the student. If they want it bad enough, [they] can get through it. It’s important to have self-motivation. If you quit halfway through, you’re [never] going to know how far you could’ve gone.”
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry declined to comment.
One potential weed-out course at Mason is General Chemistry I. An
“[The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry] doesn’t want their
Some argue that it is not the difficulty of the courses that are making students fail, but rather that the students are setting themselves up for failure by not putting in the effort needed. An anonymous source, who will go by the pseudonym Lilly, shared her opinion.
students to fail,” Lilly said. “It’s all about studying and putting in the extra effort. [Chemistry laboratory] is designed to be challenging, because that is simply life.” Mason offers multiple sources of support and tutoring for science students. One way the school does this is through groups like the The STEM Accelerator program, which was created by the College of Science in 2011 to focus on the success of undergraduate students, according to the program’s website. One of its goals is to improve retention rates among STEM students. Dr. Rosenberg, director of STEM
Accelerator, said that her team has not seen a large decrease in STEM students, but rather an increase. “We do not design classes to be difficult or to weed out students,” said Dr. Rosenberg. “The College of Science is dedicated to the success of our students. Because these are intrinsically difficult classes, that is the nature of the material, not something we have created.” Additional resources such as learning assistants, undergraduate students who conduct peer-to-peer tutoring and mentoring, and the Chemistry Tutoring Center offer assistance to struggling students.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
As the fall semester slowly begins to wrap up, most students are beginning to sign up for the classes they will take next semester. Many plan on advancing to upper-level classes that complete their degree requirements. However, some STEM students will find themselves unable to advance like their peers.
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NEWS
11.12.2018
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE
MASON STUDENTS AND A RISE IN VAPING ON CAMPUS
Recent studies on vaping and students’ opinions on e-cigarettes
COLLIN COPE STAFF WRITER
Since it was first introduced, vaping has continued to rise in popularity. “It’s definitely related to the advent of more compact and more efficient vapes,” said Zac Menton, a freshman chemistry major at Mason. “Especially JUULs because they’re so small and deliver such a high amount of nicotine. It’s so much nicotine that people get addicted.” Freshman communication major Priya Singh added, “They make the [vape] juices really appealing. The mango [JUUL] pods are one of the more popular flavors and have a higher nicotine concentration. So teenagers that are more into fruity flavors instead
of the tobacco flavor will get more nicotine.” Recent studies have suggested that vaping could also be harmful because of certain carcinogens said to be found in the vapor. However, some students still feel that vaping is safer than smoking.
situation to when hoverboards kept catching fire and how their manufacturers solved that problem, and suggested e-cigarette companies could find a solution to their malfunctions.
several instances of [them blowing up]. It’s just chance. There is a very small chance that your vape will blow up. If you buy a poorly manufactured vape, the chances could be higher.”
“It’s just like any type of technology, just like with the Samsung Galaxy [phones],” said Menton. “There were
According to campus policy, smoking and vaping are prohibited indoors and within 25 feet of doors and windows.
While students are made aware of this rule, many still vape in their dorms. According to Menton, “If you are trying to quit nicotine, the fact that you can use a vape indoors without anyone knowing makes it easy to develop an addiction [to nicotine].”
“I don’t even think it’s close,” said Menton. “Most of the chemicals put in cigarettes are not safe for consumption and will deteriorate your health over time, while the main ingredient in vapes is vegetable glycerin, which is naturally based, and I don’t think it’s nearly as [bad].”
PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Whether on the way to class or walking through a residence hall, it would be hard for a day to go by without seeing at least one student vaping. Some students use their vapes to stop smoking cigarettes, while others use both. A common belief is that there is nothing wrong with vaping, but how true is that?
Another potential risk is students’ vapes exploding. According to a September study by Dr. Matthew Rossheim of Mason’s College of Health and Human Services, the number of e-cigarette explosions is much higher than initially recorded. However, this can be true for other technology. Menton compared the
THIS WEEK IN POLITICS Monday, Nov. 5 Republicans and Democrats gear up for the 2018 midterm elections.
Tuesday, Nov. 6 The Republicans retain their control of the Senate, but the Democrats have gained control of the House of Representatives. The days of one-party control in D.C. are over for now. The largest number of female representatives ever were elected to the House in U.S. history. 150 members of the LGBTQ+ community were elected to public office across the country, while the first two Muslim women were elected to the House. Four races still remain undecided.
Wednesday, Nov. 7 Jeff Sessions resigned his position as U.S. Attorney General. White House press credentials were suspended for CNN’s Jim Acosta’s after a heated exchange with President Trump during a press conference. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders falsely claimed via Twitter that Acosta had “placed his hands on a young woman.”
Thursday, Nov. 8 Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg suffered three broken ribs after a fall in her office. She has since been discharged from the hospital, and plans to be back on the bench by the Supreme Court’s next sitting on Nov. 26.
Friday, Nov. 9 President Trump, in response to the large migrant caravan traveling to the U.S. border, called illegal immigration a “crisis” and suspended asylum rights to immigrants who enter the U.S. illegally. News broke that in October, arrests made at the Mexican border were the highest they have ever been. The Keystone Pipeline was blocked by a federal judge.
SPORTS
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE @IVESTATE_SPORTS
11.12.2018
11
WE STICK TOGETHER
Field hockey provides a welcoming environment on and off the field NATALIE HEAVREN SPORTS EDITOR
Field hockey is often seen as a girl’s sport because its players wear skirts. However, the sport is co-ed. As Mason’s sophomore Field Hockey Club player Brenna Reilley said, “Once you get guys on the team it really changes the game, and it increases the speed.”
playing field hockey, starting in fifth and seventh grade respectively. Both had played soccer beforehand and had tried field hockey because friends were playing it. They stuck with it through high school. On the other hand, Hamlette, one of two men on the team, has only been playing for a couple of months. He joined the team because Reilley, whom he knew before joining, encouraged him while knowing the team needed a goalie.
Sophomores Reilley, David Hamlette and Lily Plizga are all members of Mason’s Field Hockey Club team and they all played soccer before eventually switching over.
Having played soccer in the beginning of high school before devoting his time to band, Hamlette tried out on a whim. After finding out he did not like playing on the field, he tried playing in goal and loved it.
Reilley and Plizga both grew up
Hamlette is glad to have something
scheduled to fill the time, saying, “If you have any interest in it at all, go try it out.” Hamlette, Reilley and Plizga noted the similarities between soccer and field hockey, pointing out how it helped them make the switch between sports. “It’s a similar setup for the two games, having a goalie, defense, midfielders, forwards, and the aspect of running through the whole game is similar,” said Reilley. “I mean, the skill is different, but it did give me a good transition into a new sport.” Plizga agreed, saying, “I didn’t go into it completely blind. I didn’t know how to use a stick or anything, but I knew where to go and how to run to the ball and cover someone, so I think in that case it helped me go into it not completely confused.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF MASON RECREATION FLICKR
Despite disliking playing in goal while playing soccer, Hamlette mentioned how it helped him learn how to communicate with defense and find the main role of his position. Field hockey provided these three with a new group of friends, a comfortable environment and a way to relieve stress. Having played field hockey through middle school, and high school Plizga said, “I really like being a part of a
team. It was definitely something I missed when I came here and I didn’t have that anymore, so I enjoy just being with everyone and getting to play and getting to do outside activities with the team.”
PHOTO COURTESY OF MASON RECREATION FLICKR
Field hockey has been played in its current form since the early 19th century. Played using a stick with a flat edge and one rounded edge as well as a small round ball, field hockey is played across the country by both men and women.
Reilley weighed in, saying, “[The] team gets along pretty well, so it’s never a stressful thing going to practice You get to shoot around, you get to play with your friends.” Hamlette has found playing to be stress-relieving, saying, “It’s like two hours on Monday, two hours on Wednesday and the weekends that we play that I don’t think about school, which is good for me, because I stress out constantly.” He went on to say, “The two hours go by so fast, and during that time you kinda just realize like, ‘Hey, I didn’t think about school. I didn’t do anything that was ‘goal-oriented,’ so I didn’t have to stress about anything,’ and it’s just kind of nice to take those times out of the day.” The team practices twice a week,
though they are looking to add a third practice to keep up with the level of competition they play against. They usually play in five games in the fall semester, with three or four happening in the spring, along with a scrimmage or two. Whether you’ve played for years or have never stepped on the field before, if you have an interest in playing, email gmufieldhockey@gmail.com. The team is done competing for now but will start practicing again next semester.
SPORTS IN BRIEF Men’s Soccer The men’s soccer team lost in their second ever appearance in the Atlantic 10 championship to the University of Rhode Island. After a converted penalty kick from URI’s Dominik Richter in the 16th minute of the fist half, the struggled to find the equalizer. Then in the 86th minute URI’s Emil Sunde Jesman sealed the game with a goal of his own. URI won by a score of 2-0.
Women’s Volleyball Women’s volleyball finished their regular season on a two-game losing streak, losing on the road to the University of Rhode Island (URI) and Fordham University. The team finished the regular season 8-6 in the Atlantic 10, and 10-14 overall. The Patriots were led by middle blockers Peyton Ehmke, who had nine kills and five blocks in their 0-3 loss to URI. In their 2-3 loss to Fordham on Saturday, Mason was led by Bailey Williams with 20 kills while Emily Konchan recorded 56 assists. Mason lost 3-2.
Men’s Basketball After two losses to the University of Pennsylvania and American University,Mason will look to recover their season’s chances of postseason play. Tuesday’s loss to UPenn was a rough loss, the Quakers scored in the final three minutes to take their first lead of the half. Mason lost 72-71. On Friday’s game versus American, it was tied at 66 after regulation. The game went to overtime, with American winning by three in the end. Mason lost again, 78-75.
Women’s Basketball
Cross-Country
Women’s basketball started their season 2-0 after wins against Loyola University Maryland and the Air Force Academy.
On Friday, the Patriots recorded their best finish for a NCAA regional since 2010, placing 16th at the NCAA Southeast Regional Championships.
Their 70-38 win over Loyola was the team’s largest margin of victory in a season opener in 25 years. Sophomore guard Nicole Cardaño-Hillary led the way, scoring 26 points, making 62.5 percent of her shots. After, they traveled to Colorado to take on Air Force. Mason started off strong by building an early 12-0 lead. The Falcons fought back and kept the game close. Cardaño-Hillary once again led the team to victory, scoring 25 points and dishing out six assists in the 78-71 win.
All-Conference runner Siobhra O’Flaherty led the way by finishing 26th in the 6K race with a time of 20:49.2. The freshman has led the Patriots in all four of the races she’s competed in this year. The men finished 17th in the regional with graduate student Trent Lancaster leading the way by placing 59th with a time of 31:29.7 on the 10K course.
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11.12.2018
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE @IVESTATE_SPORTS
THE PIECES ARE THERE NATALIE HEAVREN SPORTS EDITOR
The team was picked to finish eighth in the Atlantic 10 (A-10) preseason poll, despite finishing fourth last season, their best performance since joining the conference ahead of the 2013-2014 season. The prediction didn’t come as a surprise after the departure of A-10 Player of the Year Natalie Butler, who set the NCAA record for most rebounds in a single season and led the conference in rebounding last season. Butler and senior Tayler Dodson combined for 49 percent of the team’s rebounds last year, leaving the question of who will fill this role this season. As the first two games have played out, the question remains unanswered, as no one has recorded more than eight rebounds in a game and all 11 players have grabbed at least one. Junior Jacy Bolton and senior Casey Davis are the only two Patriots to have grabbed double-digit rebounds through the first two games. However, making sure everyone contributes in the rebounding game may be what wins the Patriots games this season, as it has been a highly effective strategy for the team. Last year the team averaged 44.6 rebounds per game, and they have recorded 44 and 41 rebounds in their first two games.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MASON ATHLETICS/ RAFAEL SUANES
Three new faces join the team this season in guard Livija Kaktaite,
forward Devyn Wilson and guard Ariana Freeman. Kaktaite and Wilson are both freshmen, while Freeman transferred from the University of Colorado. Kaktaite comes to Mason from Long Island Lutheran, the same school as sophomore Marika Korpinen. However, she brings a unique experience to the team, having played on the Lithuania National Team at both the U16 and U18 levels.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MASON ATHLETICS/ RAFAEL SUANES
Mason women’s basketball has a lot of potential for the 2018-2019 season.
In 2015, Kaktaite won gold at the U16 European Championship. While on the U18 team in 2017, she led the Lithuanian Women’s Basketball League with 112 assists. Depending on the number of minutes she plays this season, she may look to fill the role of an occasional contributor, similar to Marika Korpinen. Wilson, a 1,000-point scorer from Norcross High School in Georgia, may not see much playing time on a deep team. During the season opener, she recorded three rebounds in the five minutes she played. Freeman suffered a season-ending injury over the summer, leaving the team with 11 healthy players going forward this season. The team was picked to finish eighth in the preseason poll. However, their guard play could help them continue the success they had last season. It is not a stretch to say that sophomore guard and reigning A-10 Rookie of the Year Nicole Cardaño-Hillary will lead
both the Patriots and the conference in scoring. She finished last season third in the conference in scoring, with 17.8 points put on the board per game.
of eight per game this season. It is important to note that 13 of those 16 threes allowed came against the Air Force Academy.
There’s room for her to score even more after Butler’s departure, and she has. Over her first two games this season, Cardaño-Hillary averaged 25.5 points per game.
Going forward in the season, it’s important that the Patriots can win while allowing more threes than they make. Controlling the number of threes they allow is key, as the team cannot beat 3-point shots with twos.
If the first game is any indication, this season should also prove to be a big season for another sophomore guard, Korpinen. In the team’s season opener she had a career-high 13 points along with three steals, two blocks and two assists. She followed that up with 8 points that included going 2-3 from beyond the arc, two rebounds, an assist and a steal. All 11 healthy players for the Patriots played in the first two games of the season, with eight players playing for at least 15 minutes in their season opener. Another key for Mason to continue the success of last season is their 3-point shooting, particularly their shot selection. While the team averaged almost six made threes per game, they made less than 30 percent of them. In the first two games, the Patriots have made 11 of their 30 attempts from beyond the arc, shooting at a clip of 36.7 percent. The team allowed just over seven threes per game last season, and in just two games is allowing an average
Mason struggled to make their free throws early in the season, going 9-19 in their season opener. The team rebounded in their second game, making 20 of their 33 attempts. If the Patriots can make more free throws per game, it will set them up for success as the season continues. The A-10 looks to be a tough conference again this season after seven teams participated in postseason play last season. For Mason, it was just the program’s third trip to a postseason tournament. Dayton University received an at-large bid to the NCAA tournament, while George Washington University received an automatic bid after winning the conference tournament as a five seed. Duquesne University, Fordham University, Saint Joseph’s University and Saint Louis University all joined Mason in the WNIT last season. Dusquene was picked to finish first in the preseason poll, after returning 90
percent of their scoring and rebounding from last season. In addition to senior guard Chassidy Omogrosso, who scored 17.3 points per game last season, including a conference-high 92 3-pointers, and Kadri-Ann Lass, who was the top shot blocker in the conference last year and ranked ninth in the nation, the Dukes are getting back Nina Aho, a redshirt sophomore who sat out last year with an injury. This combination will likely prove to be lethal to many teams once conference play gets underway. Head coach Jen Rizzotti knows how to win, which is good news for George Washington, picked to finish third, tied with Fordham, but bad news for the rest of the A-10. She is entering her third season coaching for the Colonials after spending 17 years at the University of Hartford, where she led the team to the NCAA tournament six times. She also played on the University of Connecticut team that won the National Championship in 1995. The Patriots have their work cut out for them this season, from questions they need to answer to things they can improve on after their first two games playing in a difficult conference. However, aside from a distinct rebounding threat, Mason has all the tools in place they need to make another run into the conference tournament, or even another postseason appearance.
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SPORTS
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE @IVESTATE_SPORTS
11.12.2018
ARE EXPECTATIONS TOO HIGH? ZACH SEAY STAFF WRITER
The A-10 conference tournament champions Davidson College lost their top scorer and conference Co-Player of the Year in senior Peyton Aldridge, and the third team to represent the conference in the NCAA tournament, St. Bonaventure University, saw their All A-10 First Team guards Jaylen Adams and Matt Mobley graduate as well. PHOTO COURTESY OF MASON ATHLETICS/ RAFAEL SUANES
Such changes among those top teams has caused some to believe that this will be a down season for the A-10, but that may not be the case. Davidson still has Kellan Grady, who could very well wind up as the conference’s Player of the Year. Despite their departures, URI appears to be in great shape with the experienced NCAA tournament players in Fatts Russell, Jeff Dowtin and Cyril Langevine and a coveted recruit in forward Jermaine Harris.
November is here, which means college basketball is back. At Mason, both the men’s and women’s basketball teams are coming off their best regular-season finishes since joining the Atlantic 10 in 2013, finishing fifth and fourth respectively. On the men’s side, the entire roster is returning from last season. The team is getting much-needed help down low in redshirt junior Jarred Reuter, a transfer from a high-caliber University of Virginia program who was forced to sit out last season due to NCAA transfer rules. The coaching staff also brought in three freshman guards, including a seemingly overlooked and under-recruited backup point guard in Jamal Hartwell II out of Los Angeles, California. Jason Douglas-Stanley, a sharpshooter and former high-school teammate of sophomore forward Greg Calixte, has also joined the team.
jump compared to being the 13th pick in 2015-2016 and 12th in 20162017. Livingston was also named to the Preseason All A-10 First Team, making him Mason’s first-ever All A-10 Preseason First Team selection. Andy Katz, the former ESPN senior writer and current NCAA correspondent, picked Mason as his sleeper team for the 2018-2019 season. With these expectations comes pressure the Patriots have not faced since their NCAA Tournament runs. Fortunately for Mason, several factors seem to be in play that could lead to success for the men’s team. Every four years, the NCAA allows college basketball teams to travel abroad and face off against international teams. This past summer, the team traveled to Spain, where they took on senior teams throughout the country.
Coming off of last season’s run, there has been a palpable buzz around this season’s outlook, as the team was picked to finish 10th in the A-10, and senior point guard Otis Livingston II was named to the All A-10 Second Team.
That early competition gave the coaching staff an early look into what their best lineups might be, and the minutes played over in La Roda, Toledo and Barcelona hopefully allowed the newcomers to gain valuable experience alongside the returning roster from last season.
In the preseason poll, the Patriots were picked to finish fourth, a significant
Building off last season’s impressive list of nonconference opponents
such as Louisville, Auburn and Penn State, head coach Dave Paulsen has managed to schedule several games against quality programs from around the country that should help the team greatly as they prepare for conference play. They are taking on three NCAA tournament teams from last season, including the University of Cincinnati, who are the American Athletic Conference champions; the University of Pennsylvania, who are Ivy League champions; and a Kansas State University team that went as far as the Elite Eight. In addition, they have a matchup against either Baylor or Ole Miss in the Emerald Coast Classic, as well as a home game against the University of Vermont, who fell to the upset specialists University of Maryland Baltimore County in the America East Conference tournament final. Another advantage for the Patriots is the overhaul that several teams in the A-10 endured during the offseason. Last season’s regular-season champs the University of Rhode Island (URI) lost their head coach Dan Hurley to the University of Connecticut, and saw their top scorers Jared Terrell and E.C. Matthews graduate.
From a talent standpoint, Saint Louis University appears to be a real threat to win the conference for the first time since 2013-2014. In addition to returning their top scorers and rebounders in Javon Bess and Jordan Goodwin, the Billikens should receive a boost from transfers Dion Wiley (University of Maryland) and Tramaine Isabell (Drexel University). Getting this group to mesh will be the real challenge for head coach Travis Ford. If they succeed, it will likely earn them a spot in the Big Dance in March. One final contender for the conference title this season will be Saint Joseph’s University, who finished strong last season and nearly reached the A-10 championship game despite injuries to Lamarr Kimble and Charlie Brown Jr. Kimble and fellow redshirt junior Pierfrancesco Oliva have NCAA tournament experience after their run in 2015-2016. After last season’s impressive finish, head coach Phil Martelli has all the pieces to make it there again. In the past couple of seasons, the A-10 has only received three bids to the NCAA tournament. In the 2014-2015 season, six teams made it to the Big Dance. Davidson, URI, Saint Louis and Saint Joseph’s all getting in would exceed the recurring bid count of three, but such a scenario does not seem like a long shot.
However, a fifth team getting in does not seem likely, and that is where things become challenging for the Patriots. A competitive nonconference schedule always looks appealing to the 10-person selection committee that controls the fate of teams who fail to win their conference tournaments but accomplish enough to be considered for the NCAA tournament. Teams have to win the nonconference games for them to merit any meaning, at least the ones they are favored in. Mason did not start out well in that regard. A loss to an NCAA tournament team in UPenn is not in itself a failure, but the manner in which it played out was discouraging. The Patriots somehow managed to attempt only eight shots from beyond the arc, and of those, made just two. That will not be enough to keep up with the likes of Davidson and URI, who each made 13 threes in their season debuts. Two of the Patriots’ best outside shooters last season, senior Jaire Grayer and sophomore Goanar Mar, combined to shoot 1-4 from 3-point range, and their top sharpshooter, Livingston, did not even attempt a three. To make matters worse for a team that finished the regular season tied 299th in the country in 3-point percentage, freshman scorer DouglasStanley did not even play. Mason also appeared undisciplined in their home opener, with 17 turnovers and an egregious 23 personal fouls. Hopefully, they are just working to knock off the rust, as other A-10 teams finished with similar numbers in their season debuts, but it would have been to their benefit to get such sloppy play out of their system during the trip to Spain. To take a glass-half-full approach, the men’s team lost at the buzzer to an NCAA tournament team and received 25 points from a five-man bench. In a more pessimistic outlook, the Patriots once again shot poorly from outside and gained hardly any minutes from Grayer and Calixte. If their outside-shooting woes continue and guys like Calixte and Mar fail to make an impact, Mason would most certainly have to resort to winning the A-10 Championship, which would be a mighty mountain to climb. Let’s hope it does not come to that.
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11.12.2018
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE @IVESTATE_SPORTS
GET IN THE ZONE
SAMANTHA HADLEY CONTRIBUTOR
run back and forth.
This opens the door to a lot of issues. Offensive players can easily set screens, players are able to cut behind defenders and players are usually unable to anticipate passes from the offense.
The Mason men’s basketball team has been running a man-to-man defense for at least three years, which is as long as I have been watching them. A man-to-man defense is where one defender covers one offensive player. Even though a man-to-man defense can be effective for some teams, it is not for Mason. For Mason, running a zone defense would be significantly more effective. A zone defense is where one defender covers one area of the court. This would benefit the men’s team because it would not be as physically draining, would allow for more communication between players and provide better overall coverage of the opponent’s offense. First, let’s talk about the team’s energy. The team almost always starts the game with a punch. It’s very high energy, and there’s a lot of momentum. However, as the game continues, the team loses a lot of steam. An example of this would be the Nov. 6 game against the University of
Pennsylvania, but also includes games in which we had large leads. Even though Mason usually jumps out in the beginning, as time passes, their opponents always seem to be able to close the gap. This loss of momentum could be chalked up to several things, but the main one in my opinion is defense. Man-to-man defense is very draining, especially how they play it. In it, each player typically calls a man and then they stick to that man without switching. While it could be argued that this helps to prevent a mismatch, I believe that this is not worth the energy. By not switching when players set picks or get lost, the defender has to use more energy than the offensive player they are guarding. If the offensive player runs back and forth across the baseline the defender has to follow them. However, less energy would be expended if a zone defense was implemented, because the players could stay in a general section and not have to
It is possible to run a help defense while running a man-to-man. A help defense is when players still call out screens or cutters. However, it is more unlikely that this can occur because everyone is watching their own man instead of the court as a whole. In a zone defense, it is easier to see cutters and call out screens because there is more that the defensive player can observe. This way, the player is not just watching his man, he is watching the court and everyone on it.
In a zone defense, the entire half of the court is covered, and the coach could even extend it to a full-court press. This means that all defenders are prepared for cuts in areas where their opponents aren’t already occupying. If the men’s basketball team ran a 1-3-1 defense, the baseline would be covered, so there wouldn’t be as many easy cuts to the basket. The lane would be covered, so there wouldn’t be any cuts from the wings or the top of the
key, and the 3-point line would be covered by the two wings. If the zone is run effectively, all scoring options would be cut off. Another distinct advantage of a 1-3-1 defense is the turnover opportunities. All four corners of the court are available for trapping. This definitely is not something that is available in a man-to-man defense, because no one is available to help trap offensive players. This also opens more opportunities for steals, and therefore, faster breaks. This is because the defense is more observant and can predict more of the passing occurring, which allows for the person at the top or wings to grab an easy steal and hopefully also get an easy layup. The men’s basketball team would be more effective on defense if they ran a zone defense instead of a man-to-man.
Of course, we would still need players that can communicate, but it is easier to encourage that communication when more people can see what is happening. In a 1-3-1 defense, the wings, baseline or even the center have the ability to communicate together because they can see so much more than they would be able to if they were covering one man. The final reason for a zone defense, instead of a man-to-man, is because it would give the team better defensive coverage overall.
FOURTH ESTATE ALLY MCALPINE
PHOTO COURTESY OF MASON ATHLETICS/ RAFAEL SUANES
Another reason a man-to-man defense is not effective for this team is due to lack of communication. Man-to-man defenses tend to isolate players and constrict them to only focusing on their man, prohibiting them from seeing other player’s movements.
Some argue that you don’t need to cover where people aren’t, but I beg to differ. One quick L or V cut by an opponent, and the defender will not be on his man anymore. Now while that gap in time might not be very long, it could be long enough for a quick 3-point shot, or for the offensive player to get behind the defender so that they can cut into the lane and score an easy layup.
In a man-to-man defense, the defensive players cover where the people are. If the people aren’t in the lane, then the lane will not be covered. If people aren’t by the 3-point line, then the 3-point line will not be covered.
UPCOMING SPORTS Nov. 17
Nov. 18
Nov. 20
Nov. 28
Men’s Basketball vs. Southern University
Women’s Basketball vs. Colgate University
Men’s Basketball vs. North Carolina Central
Men’s Basketball vs. Morgan State University
EagleBank Arena (EBA): 4 p.m.
EBA: 2 p.m.
EBA: 7 p.m.
EBA: 7pm
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CONTENT COMA MAKES WAVES
Band talks latest album, recording process, and how to stay together after a decade IZZ LAMAGDELEINE COPY CHIEF With over ten years of experience making music together, as well as nine albums in total, the band Papadosio are well-known for their multi-genre music focused around both progressive rock and electronic sounds. Currently, Papidosio is on tour, promoting their new album “Content Coma,” next hitting Colombus, Ohio on Nov. 23 at the Newport Music Hall. The album was produced in a recording studio, instead of self-produced, the way that the band usually makes their albums.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PAPADOSIO
“One thing that was different was that we had access to an actual studio,” Anthony Thogmartin, member of the band, said. “We've been self-produced … for over a decade. We finally got the chance to go into a studio and … get the basic layers of tracks in a nice-sounding room.” The lead single for the album, also
called “Content Coma,” features stunning graphics and a fascinating concept themed around how social media has taken over our lives. “The idea is, ‘Are we content with all the content? Are we in a coma because we're content? Or are we feeling malcontent with the content in our lives?’” Thogmartin said. The band formed while playing at a bar’s weekly open jam in Ohio. All of the founding members of Papadosio are still members today. “We absolutely have overcome a lot,” Thogmartin said. “I think that ... a lot of the reason you don't see as many emerging bands is because it just doesn't make any sense to financially ... work in a band.” Thogmartin continued, “I think when you're in a solo project, it's very easy to do whatever you want, and it seems pretty alluring to do that, and
there are a lot of financial incentives to do that. Fortunately, everyone in this act for the most part isn't here for the money, they're here for the experience of making this very odd music together and trying to deal with whatever comes our way as a team, together, so it's been fantastic.” A lot of the band's success stems from how they are one of the only electronic bands who form their music while on stage. “We were designing systems that didn't exist back in the day just to be able to pull off what we do, and now there are apps on mobile phones that can do the kind of stuffs (sic) that we were putting together,” Thogmartin stated. If you’re a longtime fan or have just been introduced through this article, make sure to check them out and keep an eye open for their next album.
WGMU HOSTS FIRST ART AND MUSIC FESTIVAL Local talent brought together for the first time Music festivals are known as exhibitions for artists to come alive with their work, as well as a place where fans soak up everything they love about both their favorite artists and their music. That’s why on Nov. 9, Student Media’s WGMU held their first semi-annual Art and Music Festival in the HUB ballroom. It featured a mix of local bands and artists in a three hour long event. Sasha Toophanie, the general manager of WGMU, wanted to start the event in an effort to broaden WGMU. “I’ve never seen us do any event like this before and one of my things when I took over in the spring, this past spring, was that I wanted us to get out there more and to expand and to branch out of our comfort zone,” Toophanie said. The first performer of the night was graduate student Caroline Weinroth, a member of the Mason band Cinema Hearts. Weinroth, who performed a solo set, sang with a hauntingly beautiful echo and cracked jokes in between songs that she wrote herself, about her double life as a pageant
queen and figuring out her then-boyfriend was going to break up with her because he was following his ex on Spotify.
Raiszadeh first heard about the event through email and grasped the opportunity to share her work with the Mason community.
Weinroth founded Cinema Hearts, during her junior year of undergraduate with her brother Erich. Perhaps ironically, Cinema Heart’s music can be found on Spotify, as well as many other streaming platforms.
Of the pieces Raiszadeh had on display, she chose to talk about a piece she had done a week ago that showed two hands beside the Earth on a black background. This piece was representative of consciousness and unconsciousness, and serves as a reminder for her that there is “always a light at the end of the tunnel.”
Weinroth described Cinema Hearts as being inspired by 60s girls groups, surf rock and garage rock. “I always say it’s kind of like if the Ronettes or the Beach Boys played in a garage band and it’s me on electric guitar [and vocals], Erich on bass and then our friend Shane, who is also a Mason graduate student, he’s on drums,” said Weinroth. In between sets, people had the opportunity to speak with the student artists about their work and even buy their work. One of these artists was transfer student Yassmin Raiszadeh, a graphic design major who is potentially pursuing a double major in marketing.
“It’s kind of like a reminder to me, if I’m in a negative space or I’m being unconscious in terms of … anger or jealousy or those negative emotions are sparked in me, I have this reminder that consciousness is accessed at any moment in time and it is always with me,” said Raiszadeh. The next performer of the night was senior Chudi Mbonu, also known as Chud Music. Mbonu asked for audience participation throughout his show and delivered a high energy performance, complete with audience participation.
FOURTH ESTATE HAILEY BULLIS
HAILEY BULLIS ASSISTANT CULTURE EDITOR
During his set, Mbonu performed his song “Four Wives,” which takes inspiration from Logic’s song, “Nikki.” The song is about substance abuse of alcohol, marijuana and nicotine. “The main one in the hook saying ‘Mary is a Thot’ … in the scheme of the song she’s the original wife and the rest of them, those are the rest of the vices, Mary, Ally and Nikki,” explained Mbonu. After Mbonu came Powell Not Found, Quick “O” Clock, and Promise Nothing to round out the evening.
Christian Hernandez, the music director of WGMU, hopes that the event raises WGMU in the Mason community. “I think that the ultimate goal is just making WGMU cornerstone of George Mason,” said Hernandez. “It’s something that people [and] new attending students, can be like, ‘Oh, college radio, that sounds super sick, let me go see what’s it’s about’ and it’s event’s like that [that] get our name out there,” Hernandez said.
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How the dean of the Schar School followed his calling
RUTH MEKONNEN STAFF WRITER
When Mark Rozell entered his office at Catholic University in Washington, D.C. in 2004, he did not expect a phone call from the associate dean of the former School of Public Policy at George Mason University. “He said, ‘There is some interest in you. Would you like to come over and just have a talk?’” said Rozell. Of course, considering that he had never applied for the position he was about to be offered, Rozell declined that offer. However, Rozell eventually agreed to go to a faculty presentation after a lot of persuasion by Mason. “I really just liked what I saw here and suddenly discussion started after that,” Rozell said.”I can tell you it’s the best move I’ve ever made.” Rozell is currently the dean of the Schar School of Policy and Government, with an underlying tenure faculty position. He became dean of the Schar school in 2016, which he cites as what he is most passionate about.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SCHAR SCHOOL
“I spend a lot of time doing things externally because I’m trying to enhance … our visibility, which brings more support to the school and more students, [and] to also raise money to support the programming that we do here,” Rozell said.
Still, Rozell can’t help but talk about how hectic the position can be. “Everyday is different to be honest,” he said. ”One day I could be spending time [in] Washington, D.C. meeting with people, trying to develop some collaborations that will enhance the identity of the Schar School. [On] another day, I can be meeting with faculty and students.” Rozell developed his passion for academia and politics from a young age. “I could tell you about who won what election what year…,” Rozell said while recounting his early teen years. “It was just something within me that I was drawn to for whatever reason.” Following this calling, he interned for a member of Congress from upstate New York, where he grew up. This opportunity that he received when he was 17 and 18 led him to Washington, D.C. for an internship program. “Coming to Washington was such a revelation and it just captured me like, ‘This is what I want to do,’” Rozell stated. “I didn't want to be an activist, I wanted to be an educator.” In some sense, everything in Rozell’s life was leading up to being the dean of the Schar School. “I feel like I’m home,” Rozell said.
MASON REACTS TO THE MIDTERM ELECTIONS Turnout soars as elections remain contested ALEXANDER SHEDD EDITOR-IN-CHEIF
The 2018 midterm elections have finally come to a close. The Democrats took the House of Representatives, flipping multiple incumbent Republican seats in the process, while the Republicans maintained control of and made gains in the Senate, unseating several high-profile Democrats in the process. In Virginia, longtime incumbent Tim Kaine kept his senate seat, defeating Republican challenger Corey Stewart by a significant margin. In the House, major Republican representatives Barbara Comstock, Dave Brat and Scott Taylor all lost their seats to Democrat newcomers. Across the nation, the House of Representatives elected the most female representatives in the history of the legislative body, as well as the first two Muslim women in Congress. “The results from Tuesday night resonated a message of hope and change,” said GMU Democrats Communication Director Ashley Stewart. “While we didn’t win back the Senate, we won back the [House of Representatives] and in the process elected a record number of women. I truly believe that we are now positioned to see positive change in our country.” According to data collected by CBS News, voter turnout across the country was at 49 percent, the highest turnout ever for a midterm election. At Mason, nearly 50 percent of students who voted were first-time voters, according
to exit polling data from Student Media. “It’s clear from voter turnout and exit polling data [that] Mason students care about being civically involved,” said Student Government Vice President Erik Truong, who helped conduct exit polls outside Merten Hall. While the results came in on Tuesday night, some students chose the comfort of a safe space provided by GMU Student Power and Students for a Democratic Society in an event called “Solidarity for Survivors.” The event offered survivors of sexual assault a comfortable space to watch the results in the wake of the confirmation of Justice Brett Kavanaugh, according to Student Power president Sara Deriso. “With the emotional testimony of Christine Blasey-Ford, many survivors of sexual assault have been reminded of their own traumas when consuming media in this political climate,” said Deriso. She continued, “We were very happy with the results of the midterms. Three house seats in Virginia were flipped, and it was a historical moment to witness so many strong women being elected to Congress.” However, the elections may not be over just yet. At the time of writing, the Florida races for governor and senate, the Georgia race for governor and the Arizona race for senate were still too close to call. All three races are considered to be
“key races” by CNN. In Florida, the gubernatorial election was open, meaning incumbent governor Rick Scott did not seek reelection. Although Democratic candidate Andrew Gillum conceded to Republican Ron DeSantis, the race was close enough to trigger a machine recount. Additionally, Rick Scott chose to challenge incumbent Democratic senator Bill Nelson, another race which is currently too close to call. In Georgia, the gubernatorial race between Republican Brian Kemp and Democrat Stacey Abrams appears to be heading into a runoff election. Finally, in Arizona, the race for the open senate seat between Republican Martha McSally and Democrat Krysten Sinema remains too close to call. As of Friday, Nov. 9, all of these races appeared to be leaning towards the Republican candidate. “Democrats regaining house seats, particularly in the Midwest, gives the parts some optimism,” said Timothy O’Shea, the Student Government secretary for government affairs. “But losses in the high-profile races in Georgia, Florida and Texas suggest that Democrats are misgauging their strength in some areas.” He added, “For Republicans, the deepening of the Senate majority obviously gives the party a few legislative advantages for the next couple years.” College Republicans could not be reached for comment.
FOURTH ESTATE ALLIE THOMPSON
FOR MARK ROZELL, THE SCHAR SCHOOL “FEELS LIKE HOME”
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“DU” IT FOR THE CULTURE National Durag Week helps break down stigma around Black hair care MONICA ECHOLS CULTURE EDITOR
To celebrate durags and help remove the stigma surrounding them, My Natural teamed up with Collegiate Black Men (CBM) to hold National Durag Week at Mason from Nov. 5-9. According to Mirriam-Webster, a durag is a “close-fitting, typically stretchable piece of cloth” that is used to hold a hairstyle in place and “usually has long ends which are tied in the back.”
community, so it’s like … picking and choosing things that HBCUs do so we can have that sense of community and have that experience, especially being on a PWI [predominantly White institution] campus.”
prestigious events in the country. Rihanna wore a crystal-encrusted durag to the Council of Fashion Designers of America, Inc. (CFDA) Awards, while Solange Knowles wore a black durag to the 2018 Met Gala.
National Durag Week kicked off with a meeting to discuss the history of the durag.
Despite their popularity, there is still stigma associated with wearing a durag. Some of the stigma can come from the black community. At the durag history meeting, several attendees recalled their parents telling them not to wear their durags, bonnets or scarves in public.
The use of the durag dates back to the 19th century when enslaved people used scarves to keep their hair out of their face. The style became popular again during the Harlem Renaissance and Great Depression to preserve hairstyles and resurfaced during the Black Power movement in the 1970s.
Keyonia Driver, the secretary and treasurer of My Natural, explained that she wanted to have Durag Week at Mason to create a sense of community.
According to a New York Times article, William J. Dowdy is claimed to have invented the modern-day durag so that Black hair would not revert back to its tightly coiled texture. The article states that durags started being widely sold in 1979. They have become mainstream in pop culture since then.
“I think the main thing for me is just doing something that brings Black Mason together, especially because we’re not an HBCU,” Driver said. “Coming here, we have to find that
Although durags are typically associated with men, women also wear them often. Female celebrities helped move durags into the fashion world by wearing them to some of the most
The event was inspired by similar events held at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
unprofessional until somebody else does it… We just want back what’s ours,” she said. According to Driver, wearing durags is special to her, as it is another way to honor her ancestors. “The majority of the things we do now happened during slavery … They wore it to get their hair out their face, but we wear it as a trend because we’re expressing what our ancestors went through,” she said. Durag Week ended with wave reveals, which took place on Wednesday and
Friday. Students gathered around the Mason statue to reveal their “waves,” which is the pattern that is created after brushing the hair in the same direction. They also competed in contests to see who could tie their durag the fastest. The winning prize was a premium durag. From educating people about the history of durags to encouraging students to show off their waves, National Durag Week was a celebration of the iconic black hair care accessory.
Dion Blackmon, former president and current student advisor for CBM, said, “I’ve never been able to wear a durag, not even around my own family, until I got to college and got away from my family. ” Tishaun Howard, public relations and hospitality chair of My Natural, explained that she sees the stigma as “another form of oppression.” “People love Black culture but they don’t like to see us express it,” she said. “They like to see other people express it. So I feel like it’s another way to stifle our expression of ourselves.”
FOURTH ESTATE IBRAHIM AHMAD
Durags are staples of Black hair care. Like bonnets and scarves, durags both protect hair and preserve hairstyles. Despite their practical use and their prevalence in the Black community, durags are not always accepted everywhere.
Driver expressed similar feelings. “Everything we do is considered
HIDDEN HANGOUTS: THE AMAZING COMIC SHOP
Store offers comic books, manga and more for residents from Fairfax to D.C.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE AMAZING COMIC SHOP FACEBOOK
IZZ LAMAGDELEINE COPY CHIEF If you ever want to spend hours catching up on the latest manga plots or comic book series, the Amazing Comic Shop, located in the University Mall Shopping Center, is your place to be. With being only a 15 minute walk away from Mason, the shop is highly convenient for Mason students and nearby residents wishing to learn what new comics are out or wanting to pick up a new Funko Pop! for their collection. Open every day of the week until at least 6 p.m., the shop allows itself to be accessible to its patrons whenever they need a new poster or statue to adorn their room.
Inside the shop, you can spend hours searching through all of the shop’s merchandise, which includes hundreds of comic books, manga posters and more.
about new merchandise it has received, so customers know they can grab items that range from a cute new werewolf figurine to a new Superman statue to the latest Deadpool comic.
The store offers the latest in collectibles, action figures and trade collections. The shop is a perfect fit for collectors looking for the rarest items to finally complete their collections. The store is a hidden gem which can keep you occupied for hours on end.
The store also participates in events like Free Comic Book Day, where companies like Marvel Comics and DC Comics sponsor free comic books to be given out at local comic shops, a comic book club where members read different first issues of comics as well as comic festivals that occur throughout the year.
It also stays accessible to the public by often recommending both top comic book picks and new releases every week on its website and keeping an active social media presence through Instagram and Facebook. Every Wednesday, the shop posts
It can often be easy to lose track of time in The Amazing Comic Shop, make sure to check it out soon and find your latest new pop culture obsession.
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WHAT IS THE AMERICAN DREAM?
Senior Allen Hester seeks the definition of the American dream and the perceptions that come with it NAYOMI SANTOS STAFF WRITER
Hester wants to find correlations between the illusion and reality of the American dream. Through his research, he wants to know both the perception that people have of the American dream and the reality that is actually occurring in America.
Hester, a senior in the Conflict Analysis and Resolution program, said the initial direction for his senior research project focused around the American dream was much different from where he is now.
“Even if the data says one thing, if people’s perceptions are something else, that will drive their action choices in a completely different way than their numbers are,” he said.
“Originally my research was going to be really focused on the impacts of automation on the U.S. job market,” he said. But Hester found a connection between “what you do, what you study, what you do for work and your identity as an American,” which led him to research that “basically argued that the American dream is the closest thing that we have to a collective American identity.” Hester’s central question asked if the decline of the American dream contributes to polarization. Hester explained, “If the American dream that we have been told and sold exists … if we start realizing that those things aren’t as attainable as we’d like to think, owning a house, having a comfortable retirement … what does that mean for the American dream?” From there, Hester created a survey asking people about their perceptions and beliefs in the American dream, as well as finding out how the American people are perceiving changes both in the overall economy and in personal opportunities they have that enhance their economic status. Participants in his survey range from current Mason students to people in Wyoming of all ages.
For instance, when one question on the survey asked what socioeconomic class defines the participant’s childhood, Hester received criticism as to why he didn’t put incomes for
each class.
their pursuit of the American dream.”
“That is because a lot of people think they’re middle class even though they’re not,” Hester said. “If your perception is that you are in the middle class, then you are going to make decisions and choices based on that perception.”
Hester hopes to connect the answers to this question to theories in his field of study. One such theory is that people have been increasingly unwilling to compromise on issues important to America. People are quick to think, “If I think you’re a threat, I’m not going to view you as an equal, I’m going to view you as a barrier,” he said.
An important aspect of Hester’s survey is that there are no demographics besides age. “All of this I wanted to be from the perspective of ‘as an American, I think X,’” he said. In an effort to explore the polarization in America, Hester’s final question on the survey is whether participants believe the political party to which they are not affiliated is “threatening
Since releasing the survey, Hester has discovered some interesting answers and patterns. For example, only one person has identified as upper class, while the other classes are roughly evenly split. He
also found that a higher number of people than he predicted expect to achieve an upper-class status eventually. Another finding was that people who identified as being working class mostly believe they will only reach upper-middle class. The biggest prediction that Hester has, which his data currently supports, has to do with the current generation of college students who lived through the recession of 2008 and who have to pay expensive college tuition. “I don’t think as many people expect to be rich,” he said. When comparing these results with people who are 50 or 60 years old, Hester said, “They will have a lot more likelihood to expect things like prosperity and wealth.” “We might also just be seeing a time where people are redefining the American dream,” Hester said, where people are asking not what they have but if they truly love what they are doing. PHOTO COURTESY OF ALLY MCALPINE
While the idea of the American dream has been around for a long time, the perception of this ideal has been altered and shifted throughout the years. This makes it a fascinating research topic to Mason student Allen Hester.
“It’s kind of depressing, but it’s really cool stuff,” Hester said. On a positive note, “people are acknowledging that American unity has been getting worse, which at the very least makes us aware that we have to do something to fix it,” he said.
Despite the pessimistic grim results, it is important that Americans are aware of the growing divisions. Hester said, “I try my best to not go into every room and make people sad, but I think it’s an important question and I think it resonates with a lot of people.”
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A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN BROTHERS
Award-winning alumnus Rob Clyde speaks to Fourth Estate HAILEY BULLIS ASSISTANT CULTURE EDITOR
Although he majored in communication, Clyde did not know he wanted to be a filmmaker until after he graduated. Following his graduation in 1993, Clyde partnered with his brother Ben and they became professionally known as The Clyde Brothers. Starting in 2009, the partnership began when Clyde was in Los Angeles and his brother was in New York. “We decided to combine efforts and see if we could get gigs together rather than separate, and we got lucky kind of right off the bat,” Clyde stated. “We booked a few commercials for Centerpoint Energy in Houston right away, and then we did a couple car things here and there, but the Tuition Monster was definitely one of the
earliest things that we did together.” Clyde’s main goal when creating commercials is making them memorable. “Our goal or outlook is to be raw, be realistic, be authentic,” he said. “We want to reflect culture upon itself and kind of give it a suggestion for being better, so we try to do talkable things. Again, when you’re doing commercials it’s just to make people laugh. Just make them think, ‘Wow, that’s clever,’ and make it memorable.” Since the beginning of their partnership, the brothers have established three different companies: Squint, Squint Direct and Clyde Brothers LLC. The brothers, who are based in Los Angeles, also opened a satellite location in Virginia this fall. Squint Pictures, Clyde’s television and film development company, produced “If I Could Tell You,” an award winning short film centered around a couple’s fertility problems. Clyde got the idea for the movie from
his own life, when him and his wife were struggling with fertility issues themselves. The film’s leading man, Kevin Richardson, was also having fertility issues in his marriage around this time as well. The film has a run time of 35 minutes and debuted at the National Film Festival. The film was intentionally made short, so that it could be used as a proof of concept later on for adapting the film into a TV show. Working with family is never easy. However, it can also be beneficial in the long-run, “I would say working
PHOTO COURTESY OF ROB CLYDE
If you know who the Tuition Monster is, you know the work of Mason alumnus Rob Clyde. It is a big green fluffy monster that follows you throughout your college tuition decisions with a grey stained T-shirt and a bent graduation cap, part of Virginia’s 529 college savings plan.
with your brother is really hard [but] probably it’s benefitted us because we can trust each other 100 percent,” Clyde said. “We know that the other guy [is] looking out for us because there’s no separation. It’s like the company is called the Clyde Brothers.”
He continued, “You’re totally accountable to each other, and yeah, it’s hard when it’s your brother because they drive you nuts and you don’t have to [be] courteous just to be courteous, you can kind of be an a--hole when you want to be to your brother. So, we’ve found a way.”
#HAPPYPERIOD FOCUSES ON LOCAL WOMEN’S HEALTH Mason students become more involved in community health KIM BARTENFELDER STAFF WRITER
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHELSEA VON CHAZ
The National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS) hosted their first #HappyPeriod event on Nov. 8 in The Hub, encouraging Mason students to think more about women’s menstrual health in the local community. The main focus of #HappyPeriod was to reach as many local women as possible. Member Yassmin Salem suggested that NSCS should donate feminine hygiene care kits made to the 501(c)(3) organization Bringing Resources to Aid Women’s Shelter’s (BRAWS) in Vienna, which provides both undergarments and menstrual supplies to all females that live in shelters. Salem said that, “It’s actually really hard to find a place where we can donate feminine hygiene care kits.” Salem continued, “I found BRAWS through another nonprofit that I’m involved in.” “What’s special about BRAWS is that they are a free tampon center in the
Vienna community,” said Salem. Tampons, pads and panty liners can be both expensive and uncommon in many locations, making accessibility of these products difficult for many women. Menstruation is inevitable, however, organizations like BRAWS and events like #HappyPeriod allow young adults on campus to combat overpriced and environmentally unfriendly products and services. “Some people aren’t as fortunate so this is why we do what we do,” said Salem. NSCS, President Rose Sanchez, said that for any event to be successful, “it’s about the motivation behind wanting to help others rather than the numbers.” The #HappyPeriod event helps create a sense of community. One struggle expressed was while many shelters and nonprofits rely heavily on other sorts of donations such as clothing and canned food. However, feminine products often go overlooked.
With the amount of donations made at the event, NSCS was able to make twenty-six feminine hygiene care kits. Each kit contained ten pads, seven pantyliners and six tampons. Members of NSCS had different ideas of what #HappyPeriod means to them. “Well, it starts a discussion,” Schipske said. “It looks past what shelters ask of the public at surface level and addresses real problems.” Salem does not believe that women should have to pay for menstrual products, “Organic is better for you and buying products should align with your values. Some people aren’t as fortunate so this is why we do what we do,” said Salem. NSCS is built upon many values, with community service being arguably the most important. Having the #HappyPeriod event was about “being active in our community,” said Schipske.
CULTURE FACES OF MASON delves into the lives of Mason students, faculty or alumni, and organizations every week. This week we take a close look at student Jordan Lear, faculty Vivek Narayanan, alumna Tyree Carlson and Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers If you know of a Mason student, faculty member, alumnus or alumna or organization that would like to be featured on FACES OF MASON please submit your request via: https://goo.gl/HZ4SMd INTERVIEWS BY HAILEY BULLIS, AND NAYOMI SANTOS
S T U D E N T, J O R D A N L E A R What company did you found? Explain it a little bit. I created a company called Adorkable. It’s literary and pop-culture themed jewelry, and I use 10 percent of the money I make to go towards buying books for those who can’t buy them themselves. I kinda created it because I had fallen out of reading. Like, I used to love reading when I was younger, and then I kinda just stopped. And then I had a really great literature [teacher] …and my goal is just to be able to be that person for someone else, somebody who helps other people to find that love of reading again.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALLIE THOMPSON
What is your favorite accomplishment with Adorkable? My favorite accomplishment, that’s kinda hard … because I feel like I haven’t done too much with myself so far, but I know that I’ve kinda done some stuff. But I’ve been able to reach a lot of people and make connections with people. I definitely like the fact I’ve been able to give those books to people in need. Actually, somebody that we know ... her niece’s school had a fire and the library got messed up, so I’m actually donating a bunch of books that I had stocked up to them so that’s pretty cool, I was excited about that.
How’s your first semester at Mason been so far? It’s good. It was a struggle at first transitioning here. I was home-schooled my whole life coming up to this, so the adjustment from being at home all the time and just chilling … [And then I came] here and [was] like ‘Oh, every other day you have the same classes and you see some of these people every day,’ that was a struggle and being away from my family was a struggle, so it was definitely an adjustment. There was definitely an ‘I wanna go home’ period. But, now I’m getting into the groove and I’m really enjoying it. What is your biggest dream? I think I wanna be known for something. I wanna be somebody … some people can look to and be like ‘Oh, I know her.’ I don’t want to fade away, you know? I wanna leave a mark. If you could meet anyone from any point in time for 10 minutes, who would it be? I don’t wanna be cliche and be like, “Oh, Jesus.” So I’m gonna go with Lucille Ball cause she was like my favorite actress, and she kinda made me want to act. I still kinda wanna do that now, I’m just going with the more stable career path … She made me love acting … comedy and film and all that, and she was just such a fireball. She was just such a powerhouse of a woman, and I wanna be able to do something like that.
PHOTO COURTESY OF DYUTI MITTAL
FA C U LT Y, V I V E K N A R AYA N A N What are you currently researching? Why did you choose this topic?
contemporary philosopher from Ethiopia.
For the past six years or so, I’ve been working on a very long book of poems, nearly 400 pages, which is partly a translation [and] partly a playful riff on India’s oldest and most influential epic poem—Valmiki’s “Ramayana.” Though this is a creative writing project, it actually uses a lot of research—not just reading the text closely, but researching interpretations, academic and scholarly articles, looking at paintings and sculpture, even visiting some places in India that I describe and bring into the poems.
I love teaching the Honors 110 Research Methods class because the students choose their own topics and surprise me with them each year. I really enjoy learning about all these different things that the students are researching. We forget that in the best scenario, students are not supposed to just regurgitate the professor’s knowledge, but use their encouragement and critical perspective to come up with things that the professor could never even have dreamed of.
Sometimes I think the topic chose me more than I chose it. I was introduced to this text at a workshop intended to get Indian English poets to write about the “Ramayana” … This is the exciting and sometimes strange thing about research—you never know where it will take you.
What is the most amazing or shocking thing that you have learned from your research?
What is your favorite book or written text? That is a really hard question … There is the “Ramayana,” of course, which continues to fascinate and surprise me even after countless readings. I love Thomas Mann’s novel, “The Magic Mountain.” Lately, I have been reading a lot of Nathaniel Mackey, an American poet and writer. Also discovering the work of Teodros Kiros, an amazing
Why do you like researching at Mason?
As an Indian, I grew up with the story of the “Ramayana,” and took it for granted. It was a bit of a shock when I started to read the Sanskrit original and it turned out to be very different from what I thought it was. This often happens, especially with ancient books. They have been so silted over with different interpretations, used for so many purposes over the centuries that when we finally read them, they turn out to be different from what we’d assumed. Narayanan declined to have his photo in print.
CULTURE ALUMNA, TYREE CARLSON A L U M N A , E L IWhat Z A Bactivities E T H Bwere AIR ES you involved
in when
help out there to make decisions for me or help me make decisions.
I mainly worked, so I didn’t have a lot of on-campus activities other than going to school. I actually lived at home. I did not live on campus.
Were you a parent while you were a student at Mason?
you were a student at Mason?
Where did you work? I worked at what is now the Eaglebank Arena—I worked at the Patriot Center. I [worked] part time, which allowed me to watch basketball games and stuff like that and get paid. I also cleaned houses and I also worked as a camp counselor. What do you do now?
PHOTO COURTESY OF TYREE CARLSON
I am a systems engineer … I test software. So, how I got into it was I was very good at problem solving, and I believe that was due to my social work degree that I received from Mason. And somebody was making a new set of software and was like, ‘Hey, we need somebody to test this,’ and I did that one time and it became my career after. You said you received a social work degree from Mason? I did, I have a social [work] degree from Mason. Some life events is why I decided on that degree. I was always good [at] computers, I was actually building software with my dad when I was a kid [and] writing programs, but I got pregnant out of wedlock, and so I decided—there wasn’t a lot of
I wasn’t. I actually decided to give her up for adoption. So, I was not. I have a unique story. That was what my decision was. I kind of had to come to it myself, I had to really reach out. I think that’s what drew me to social work at first, to help people help themselves in a way. Because there wasn’t a lot of information out there at that time. How did that decision affect you? It actually got me motivated to go back to school and get my degree. I made the decision that she would be better off with a family who had better means than me because I did not have a degree. Or, you know, I did not have a college education at that point, and so ... part of it was ‘I’m going to do this, do the right thing and then improve myself ’ and go back to school and actually provide for her later on in life. Do you know your daughter now? I do, it was an open-adoption. We were reunited when she was 18 and we talk, we have Christmas [together], we probably see each other once or twice a year. She’s out on the West Coast, but we communicate all of the time through text and all kinds of stuff.
O R G A N I Z AT I O N , S O C I E T Y O F H I S PA N I C P R O F E S S I O N A L E N G I N E E R S Do you guys target these students once they come to Mason?
Do you guys do anything fun together, or host any events on campus for your members?
Preferably yes. We try to do that by working with the [Early Identification Program] and [Student Transition Empowerment Program]. We try to gather members from those programs because most are often minorities and first-generation college students and most pursue STEM degrees. So we try to get them early on, because a lot of students don’t see the importance of networking and professional development at an early age.
We actually have an annual “familia” barbeque. We [have] a barbeque at the beginning of fall semester and at the end of spring semester. That is basically a time to socialize and introduce the new executive board … Last year, we went bowling as a team too and that was fun. We had our regional convention in New York this year in March, and that was a bonding experience. It was not only professional, but we also got to bond together more like a family. To add on, for our “familia” barbeque, in order to get the most exposure we collaborate with seven other organizations on campus, specifically Hispanic organizations. This year, we had a great turnout … [more than] 150 people attended. We got to expose each different organization to the members.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SHPE
What kinds of internships do you connect them to, or do you have any companies that you are partnered with?
What does your organization do? We are a professional development organization that helps students transition from high school to college, then from college to the workforce specifically [by] helping students get internships. We connect with professionals by hosting information sessions … We really connect and help them build a network that way they can get internships and job offers.
The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) is actually part of a national organization, and the organization has an Industry Partnership Counsel (IPC). In order to become an IPC, companies pay a fee to get them access to both resumes and the membership that SHPE offers. So, within those companies, there are roughly 40 IPCs, and there are also companies that attend the national convention. These companies also have links on their websites that are specifically for SHPE members, and they have a database that is specifically for SHPE members.
How many organization?
members
are
in
your
Roughly 60 members. A little bit more, but it teeter-totters with events. [It consists] of freshmen to seniors and also grad students. There are surprisingly a lot of computer science majors this year. New this year, we actually have committee members, which are people working underneath each position. We are basically grooming them for potentially running for next year’s Executive Board.
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GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE
A STUDENT LIVING BETWEEN TWO COMMUNITIES A Jewish-American speaks about her experiences with Zionism and anti-Semitism MANSUR SHAHEEN STAFF WRITER The topic of anti-Semitism has been brought back to the forefront of the American political sphere this past month. Between the vandalism of a Jewish community center in Fairfax, a mass shooting at a synagogue in Pittsburgh and the general rise of White nationalism in the U.S., many Jewish-Americans have cause for concern. While anti-Semitism, the hatred and discrimination towards Jewish people, has been an issue for decades, many are confused about what anti-Semitism truly entails. The roots of anti-Semitism go much deeper than white nationalism in America.
According to Christa, conflating anti-Semitism with anti-Zionism hurts all Jewish people. “Inherently there is no connection between needing a state of Israel that [is] oppressing another group and just being of people Jewish,” she said. Christa did remark that many anti-Semites may use Israel as a prop for their
“There’s a distinct difference,” she says, mentioning that “access to water and access to basic things every human should have,” are not readily available in the primarily Arab Gaza Strip. Another confusion for many people revolving this issue is “ what it means to be Jewish vs. what it
similarities between our communities than there are differences.” Orientalism, which is an often misunderstood concept in the U.S. While for many, the word reminds them of the racism against East Asians, notably the Chinese community d u r i n g America’s age of expansion, orientalism also spreads into racism against Middle and
Christa, who wanted to keep her last name private, is a Jewish Mason student who is ethnically Palestinian. While she was born in the U.S., she has deep ties to both the Jewish and Palestinian communities.
“It’s not religious. It’s purely political,” Christa said. “It’s really hard to witness because there is no need for it.”
FOURTH ESTATE ALLY MCALPINE
Christa’s grandmother was a Jewish survivor of Nazi Germany, so her family’s experience with the darkest parts of the world’s anti-Semitic history gives her a unique perspective on how anti-Semitism is talked about in the U.S.
“Anti-Semitism does not have to be an economic oppression,” she added. “It’s a very deeply rooted hate that affects us. I think we do a really poor job conflating it with Zionism, [conflating] being Jewish with supporting Israel without any question.”
Christa also refers to the restrictions that ethnically Palestinian people face in the West Bank at the moment. A report by The Guardian in 2006 revealed that the purchase of some land such as “the Jewish quarter of the old city” was restricted to many non-Jewish people in the country. “[The Israeli government] has instituted an apartheid … I have been there, I have seen it and I have family and friends that have to live with it every day,” said Christa. These are just a few of the many restrictions that an ethnically Palestinian person may face in their day to day life. According to an article on Haaretz, checkpoints were set up throughout the region that force people in the Arab community to use different roads than that of the Jewish citizens. This article also states that in 2000, the Israeli government built the West Bank Barrier, a wall separating Palestinians in the West Bank from the rest of the country.
As a Palestinian, she also is aware of the dangers of Zionism and Islamophobia. Zionism is the idea that Jewish people have a right to have their own state in Israel, as Zionists see it as their group taking back their ancestral homeland, while Islamophobia is the dislike or prejudice against Muslims.
When asked if she feels people talk about anti-Semitism the right way in this country, she responded, “Probably not. I think we know that after the [synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh]. I guess a lot of people that are not in the Jewish community don’t know how real anti-Semitism is until things like this happen.”
of living together and being peaceful. We did for many centuries, actually,” Christa said about the current situation in Palestine.
bigotry, though. Christa has family that lives in both primarily Jewish and primarily Arab areas in Palestine and she says the differences between the two are drastic.
means to be pro-Israel,” Christa said. “The same thing on the Arab side of the coin. A lot of people don’t realize that Islamophobia and anti-Semitism are both derived from orientalism and there are more
South Asians. As Christa explains, both Jewish people and Muslims have been the victims of bigotry because of deep seeded orientalism in American and European culture. “It’s disheartening because Jews and Christians and Muslims and everybody in that region are completely capable
Christa feels that being a bystander gives in to anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, “It’s a lack of action. There’s a lot of people who might not necessarily be an active anti-Semite or Islamophobe … When you’re quiet, when you’re passive and silent for so long and you refuse to ... speak against different forms of hate and oppression, you become a bystander,” Christa said. “You willingly give in to [anti-Semitism and Islamophobia].” The rise of White nationalism in America and recent events targeting the Jews make this a worrying time for Muslims, Jewish people and many other social minorities. In tumultuous times, Christa believes that it is the duty of all Americans to work together to fight against hatred and bigotry.
GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE
DEAR IVY,
11.05.2018
CULTURE
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Ivy’s tips to get back on track in college
Dear Struggling Freshman, First of all, you took one of the hardest steps of all: reaching out for help. When you are overwhelmed with everything happening in your life, the first thing you should do is clear your thoughts and be honest about what is most important, and what you can and cannot control. You can do this by journaling, or talking to others. Only focus on the things you can control such as grades, looking for jobs and staying positive. The easiest issue to solve is your grades. There are many steps you can take to achieve better grades and finish out the semester strong, such as staying organized. Make a to-do list of everything you need to do from big tasks like class assignments, projects and looking for jobs to small chores, such as buying groceries and doing laundry. Doing this helps you effectively prioritize and realize that there is very little time to worry about the future. Focus on the present and do not spend time procrastinating, which is often what happens when we’re stressed. Procrastination is one of the biggest GPA killers. One way to avoid it is to mark off time for both work and free time. Another way is learning how you work most effectively. For example, knowing that you cannot listen to music without dancing for 20 minutes at a time helps you focus and keep on task. Also, if you can’t work for more than 15 or 30 minutes between of everything else you need to get done, take advantage of that time and get anything you can done. Any time is still some time that can be spent on the
-Struggling Freshman
projects you need to complete or the homework due at 8 a.m the next day. If you do not understood your classes, there’s no need to worry. Mason’s Learning Services offers assistance such as tutoring to help you catch up. You can also see your professors during their office hours, and ask if there is an effective way to organize class material or prepare for exams. In terms of finances, have you thought about finding an off-campus job or a paid internship? Many businesses in University Mall are accessible from campus. If transportation is not a problem, apply for jobs all over Fairfax. Additionally, actively reach out to other offices on campus, or professors who may need an assistant or know someone who does. Finally, maintain your physical and mental health. It’s crucial to learn how to brighten your moods during stressful periods—try talking to family and friends, meditating, writing in a gratitude journal or doing yoga. Focus on the positive things in the present, be patient and trust that things will work out if you keep trying. But if the problem persists, you might want to consider talking to a professional at Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at Mason. There is nothing wrong with asking for help, which we all need sometimes. Remember that “this too shall pass.” I wish you all the best, and hope that you will move past your struggling freshman days into a thriving sophomore. -Ivy
Send in letters to mechols@gmu.edu
THANKSGIVING AT MASON Students who can’t go home for Thanksgiving share their experiences SARA ANWAR STAFF WRITER
While Thanksgiving is a national family holiday in the U.S., not all students are able to travel back to see their family during the five-day break, and have to find ways to celebrate on campus. Americans tend to travel to spend time with their loved ones, especially around this time of year. According to the AAA, one of the oldest automobile organizations in America, about 50.9 million Americans were projected to travel for Thanksgiving in 2017. However, for some Mason students, travelling home for the holiday is not always an option due to many reasons. The lack of financial resources is a common one. During Thanksgiving, the prices of air fare and tickets for other sources of transportation skyrocket. Out-of-state and international students generally prefer to save money and stay at school, either in dorms or their off-campus residences. Freshman english major Rehan said, “Buying tickets during Thanksgiving break is pretty expensive and it’s not worth it to spend a lot for [a] short period of time.” Dash, a freshman civil engineering major, expressed a similar feeling.
“We miss our friends and family, but with all the expenses here in Mason, it becomes hard to visit family during Thanksgiving,” said Dash. Another reason why students might not go home during Thanksgiving break is because of school. Some students prefer to catch up with their studies, as working on assignments or exams during this break could benefit those students who lag behind their courses. June, a graduate student in the Volgenau School of Engineering, said, “Though I cannot visit my family, I am planning to utilize this break by finishing my homework. Studies are not easy here and this break is a good chance for me to work on my final exams and assignments.” “I miss my parents during Thanksgiving especially,” Enlu, another student, stated. “One of my American friend’s family has invited me for Thanksgiving dinner, but [the] rest of the days I will be working on my assignments and paper.” Hundreds of international students reside in Mason’s dorms, or live near the school. Generally, Thanksgiving is not a part of their culture or
norms. Despite the break they prefer to stay back and take advantage of Thanksgiving by enjoying deep discounts in Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. Radihka, a sophomore computer science major, said, “Although we do not celebrate Thanksgiving and make special arrangements for the occasion, shopping on Black Friday is the most fun part for me on Thanksgiving.” Understanding that Thanksgiving can be an emotional time for students who are away from their families, “Mason gives a chance for students who live in dorms by arranging Thanksgiving dinner for the students who do not get to visit their families,” according to Elim, a graduate student studying statistical science. “I have already signed up for that dinner and it would be lot of fun, you no longer feel sad and lonely,” Elim said. If you’re a student staying on-campus for Thanksgiving, don’t worry. You can still celebrate by signing up for Thanksgiving dinner like Elim did or in your own ways.
FOURTH ESTATE BILLY FERGUSON
I’m at a point in the semester where everything is stressing me out. My finances are not in check and I still can’t find a part-time job. On top of that, my grades are
fluctuating just as much as my mood, and I might not be able to make it to next semester. Do you have any advice for me?
FOURTH ESTATE BILLY FERGUSON
Dear Ivy,
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GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE
Opinions do not reflect the views of Fourth Estate. Submit opinions to jbelive2@gmu.edu
THE BETO MYTH
So, naturally, coverage focused on a Republican winning a Senate election in Texas. A state which has not elected a Democrat to the Senate since 1988 continuing to not elect Democrats to the Senate is not especially newsworthy, except when the Democratic candidate is a mythical figure called “Beto.” In an age when we like to think of ourselves as being above belief in myths, it is truly impressive how quickly myths can arise. Where the ancient Greeks used epic poems to explain the power of Zeus, contemporary Americans used media coverage to explain the rise of Beto O’Rourke. Media writer Jack Shafer in Politico Magazine counted 11 national outlets that profiled O’Rourke.
They all created a similar image: a fresh face in Washington - young, Kennedy-like - who will energize the Latino vote and has a real shot at turning Texas blue. Above all, they portrayed him as cool: he rides skateboards and was in a band and just seems like one of us and… ...it
was
all
a
giant
myth.
First, supposed outsider O’Rourke has been Representative O’Rourke (TX-16) since 2013. He’s inside politics, inside Washington, even inside Congress. The only thing of which he is outside is the Senate—not usually what is meant by “outsider.” As for his youth, 46-year-old O’Rourke is young compared to notoriously geriatric senators (average age of 61), but about the same age as the current senator he failed to unseat, 47-year-old Ted Cruz. It was quite accurate to compare O’Rourke to the Kennedys, but for more reasons than his political style. An article in the Houston Chronicle
described Beto as “the scion of one of El Paso’s foremost families.” Beto’s father was a judge who once ran for Congress too. The Chronicle article also reports that Beto himself is worth about $9 million, nearly 2.5 times as much as Cruz. Other Kennedylike qualities include a knack for marrying well (his father-in-law is a billionaire real estate developer) and a disregard for safe driving practices. O’Rourke crashed while driving drunk and, according to the police report, attempted to flee the scene of the accident. All charges were dropped. While there’s no evidence of his father intervening directly, it’s probably safe to say his economic and familial privilege didn’t hurt him. Like the Kennedys, O’Rourke is also Irish. His real name, Robert Francis O’Rourke, is as Irish as a bottle of Guinness in a shamrock koozie on Saint Patrick’s Day. While speculation that his nickname was contrived for political gain was overblown and silly, news coverage about him
energizing Latino Texans was also overblown and silly. For example, an NBC News article to that effect, while acknowledging O’Rourke is not Latino, strains to justify it by saying he is “comfortable speaking Spanish.” Great. So is Jeb Bush. Beto’s mythical cool guy image included swearing on television during his concession speech - which is “cool” in the same sense that
angsty middle schoolers who swear just to be edgy are “cool.” Also, how hard is it to be the “cool candidate” in a race against Ted Cruz? The voters in Texas didn’t believe the national media’s Beto myth and instead saw him for what he really was: a progressive Democrat in a conservative Republican state. So, in one sense, Beto O’Rourke is just like one of us: he isn’t a senator.
TRUMP’S MIDTERM VICTORY
JACE WHITE STAFF WRITER
PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
of push back from the electorate. As the President pointed out in his press conference, he held rallies in support of 11 senators and governors, 9 of whom won their elections. Trump was able to mobilize voters in a way that is unusual for midterm elections, and in the races in which he concentrated his efforts, he saw the greatest success.
In his press conference the morning after the midterm elections, President Trump expressed his satisfaction with the results. It is common for a president’s party to lose many seats in both houses of congress after their first midterm. The Democrats lost 63 House seats and six Senate seats in 2010 during Barack Obama’s
first term. As the dust settles on the 2018 midterms, it appears that the Republicans have lost less than half as many House seats as the Democrats did in 2010 and gained multiple seats in the Senate. For a president who was supposed to be tremendously polarizing and unpopular, Trump received relatively little in the way
The fact that the Democrats control Congress is an unfortunate reality for the Trump administration, but the Republican majority in the Senate will prevent the Democrats from doing everything they might want to do. Neither party will be able to pass significant legislation for the next two years without bipartisan support. In Trump’s perfect world, the Republicans would still control both houses of Congress, but the current situation still seems promising for the President. It is much easier to motivate voters when their party isn’t in power. Democratic control of the House is enough to get Republican voters motivated to reelect President Trump in 2020 without giving the Democrats much power for the next two years.
As far as re-election goes, the governor’s races in the battleground states of Florida and Ohio both went to Trump-endorsed Republicans, which is an indication that the President’s message was well received in these important states. When 2020 rolls around, Trump will almost certainly have the support of these governors. He will also have a Democratic congress with a record of opposing many of his popular plans. If Democrats vote against further tax cuts, or appear to be the ones stopping bipartisan health care legislation from being passed, Trump and the Republicans can argue that Democratic opposition is a detriment to the country. When the Republicans had complete control of Congress, they had no one to blame but themselves for the lack of action on certain issues, but now with Democrats partially in charge and determined to put a stop to the President’s agenda, the Republicans have someone else to blame for a lack of progress. Anyone who paid attention to the mainstream media coverage of the
President over the past two years would not have expected the kind of response this election brought to the President. Trump was supposedly offending everyone with his divisive rhetoric. There was supposed to be a swelling of opposition to the president across the country in reaction to his hateful and angry attitude. Most media coverage of Trump was so predominantly negative that it would be easy for many Americans living in liberal communities to believe that opposition to the President was widespread and passionate. The results of this midterm prove that the hysteria around Trump is less widespread than many in Hollywood and the media would like us to believe. The fact that the Republicans didn’t get blown out of the water in these elections, and the fact that the races in which Trump was most involved had many unexpectedly good outcomes should be troubling to Democratic leaders who have thus far acted as though Trump himself was a good enough reason for people to vote against him.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
DOMINIC PINO STAFF WRITER
There were real surprises on Election Day: a Democrat, Laura Kelly, will be the next governor of deep-red Kansas, and Republican Ron DeSantis won the Florida gubernatorial election after trailing in nearly every poll.
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GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE
11.12.2018
Opinions do not reflect the views of Fourth Estate. Submit opinions to jbelive2@gmu.edu
THE BODY POSITIVITY PROBLEM SUSAN KATHERINE CORKRAN STAFF WRITER
Why should the opposite of “I really hate how I look and can’t stand the feeling of being in my own skin” be countered with something equally extreme, just pointed in the opposite direction? There needs to be a happy medium, that presents a peaceful contentment present in the midst of all of this to ground us in reality. There is nothing wrong with the self-confidence and empowerment of looking in the mirror and actually feeling joy at what you see. It’s a rare-enough feeling for many of us, sadly. But no one should aspire to be Narcissus. When we place the physicality of our bodies
PHOTO COURTESY OF FREEVECTOR.COM
Too much of anything is rarely a good thing. The rhetoric surrounding campaigns of body positivity often paints portraits of the human body as being problematically inhuman. Language intended to kindle self-confidence labors to be as vividly sycophantic as possible, chanting ecstatically that everyone is a sexy goddess whose body (whatever shape it may be) is a work of art worthy to be displayed as a natural wonder of the world.
on a pedestal, we aren’t actually correcting the societal problem of superficially judging ourselves and others based on appearance. All we’re doing is widening the list of traits upon which to fixate.
When my weight dropped dangerously because of my eating disorder, much of the “encouragement” I heard to regain vital pounds was all centered on how much better I would look with “some meat on my bones.” Friends
told me to eat and grow my breasts back while they lamented the loss of my curves, making me feel like a grotesque, shrunken child trying to masquerade as a woman. I thought about how miserable it must be to hear such comments if your body is naturally slim and flat—why would someone dare suggest that you were less of a woman, less attractive, less “meaty” than other people because of the way your body happened to grow?
Every human body is so very different. What one needs, another rejects. One grows in this direction, another grows in that direction, perhaps another grows in both directions at once.
Everyone has different caloric needs, nutritional requirements and limits on what exercise is appropriate. Health is not an easy acquisition, even more so when we are encouraged to sacrifice it for ever-changing ideals of beauty. If you have a thigh gap, okay. If you don’t, okay. It shouldn’t be an indicator of worth. Big thighs are fine. Small thighs are equally fine. Your shape, your color, your height, your weight—it’s all fine. It doesn’t have to be “the greatest and most beautiful thing in the world, you magnificent creature, you!” any more than it needs to be something that makes you feel like you’re always somehow falling short of happiness. It can just be fine. We aren’t perfect. Every single one of us has flaws, weaknesses and frequent mistakes. This is a condition known as being human. Your body is your home. It’s the physical form you occupy, and it demands gentle care for the services it provides. We don’t have to worship our flesh, we just need to take care of it and help others do the same.
A MESSAGE TO THE JC PREACHERS
SEAN BIRDSEY CONTRIBUTOR
The problem isn’t with them believing that we need Jesus. The problem isn’t them remaining stubborn even when debated rationally, as faith is naturally stubborn. The problem is them standing there and acting like they know definitively what God wants and needs them to do. Them having their faith is not an issue, but them pushing their faith as though it is the decisive instantiation of the Christian tradition is the issue. It’s not right to claim to be God, as that’s a sin. And I don’t pretend to be God, or pretend to think I’m God or pretend to think I’m better than God. But then, what about organized religion? Is it not equal hubris to claim to know the word
and will of God, and to propagate it? The Bible, while meaningfully both spiritually and culturally, is wrought with contradiction. The holy book tells us to love our neighbors, unless they’re gay (Romans 1:26-27); not to kill people unless they’re non-believers (2 Chronicles 15:13); and not to bear false witness, unless you’re every dogmatic preacher that’s ever set foot outside the Johnson Center screaming “the word of God” at passersby while eagerly anticipating one of the “snowflakes” to get “triggered” and punch you. Messages as mixed as your fabric, you stand there and shout fundamentalist-Christian conservatism under the pretense of the Lord’s approval. But if He approves, neither you nor I can know that. Let’s assume you’re right. Turn to Deuteronomy 28:53: “And thou shalt eat the fruit of thine own body, the flesh of thy sons and thy daughters, which the LORD thy God hath given thee[.]” Where is this divine punishment?
If biblical morality is literal, then the punishment must be so as well. Does God exist? If you ask me, absolutely. Still, I don’t dismiss science, I don’t dismiss my lesbian neighbors, I don’t condone killing anyone, I don’t preach the word of God but I can still feel Him looking out for me. I am attracted to both men and women, yet I can still feel him looking out for me. I don’t dismiss these feelings and I don’t dismiss those around me who aren’t faithful, because the way I see it God loves them either way. Your “Christianity” may be the religion of love, as you claim, but it is only love of possibility, the love of others’ capacity to be Christian. Whatever God wanted me to do in life, I won’t know until I die. But neither will you. You claim that we, the on-average liberal college students, are in dire need of Jesus Christ. Who are you to tell me what God, an omnipresent and omnipotent spirit far beyond our comprehension, has to say about the
way I live my life? Who are you to say that this same omnipresent, omnipotent spirit has remained static since the Bible was written? Sounds like arrogance to claim we have the capacity for something God does not. If we can change, God must be able to as well. You can stand there all you like and say that masturbating, fornicating and drug dealing are all equally morally reprehensible in the eyes of the Lord, as that’s your God-given right. But I don’t have to believe you just because you think you know what God wants.
FOURTH ESTATE JULIE FRAPPIER
While antagonizing the preachers that visit our campus can be cathartic, it’s unproductive. They will not be swain, and instead see it as justification for proselytizing because we are apparently willfully ignorant of God, and thus need them to show us the light.
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7. Cape Hatteras, North Carolina 8. Russia 9. West Virginia 10. York and Lancaster
1. GEOGRAPHY: What strait con nects the Sea of Marmara with th Aegean Sea? 2. FOOD & DRINK: What is a plue 3. SCIENCE: What does an eidolo gist study? 4. MOVIES: Which Disney mov featured the title song, “You’ve Got Friend in Me”? 5. AD SLOGANS: What produ was advertised as “It keeps going, an going, and going ...”? 6. MYTHOLOGY: Who is the Gree goddess of the rainbow? 7. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE What is the tallest lighthouse in th United States? 8. HISTORY: The German invasio of which nation had the code nam Operation Barbarossa? 9. U.S. STATES: Which state has th nickname “The Mountain State”? 10. ROYALS: Which two house were involved in England’s The Wa of the Roses in the 15th century? 1. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Which pres- Answers 1. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Which ident’s Secret Service code name waspres-Strait 1. Dardanelles ident’s Secret Service code name was “Rawhide”? 2. Plum and apricot hybrid “Rawhide”? 3. Mental images 2. GEOGRAPHY: What body ofStory” 4. “Toy 2.separates GEOGRAPHY: What body of water Ireland from England? 5. Energizer batteries water separates Ireland from England? 6. Iris 3. HISTORY: What are the descen7. Cape Hatteras, North Carolina What are the descendants3.ofHISTORY: Dutch settlers in South Africa 8. Russia dants of Dutch settlers in South Africa called? 9. West Virginia 4.called? FOOD & DRINK: What 10. is York theand Lancaster © 2018 King Features Synd., Inc.
“K”? 4. Manhattan 1. Ronald Reagan 10. BIBLE: Who were King Solo5. None. The state is divided into 64 2. The Irish Sea mon’s parents? parishes 3. Afrikaners 6. 16 Answers4. Manhattan 7. A pup 1. Ronald Reagan 5. None. The state is divided into 64 8. “Archie” 2. The Irish Sea parishes 9. Kilo 3. Afrikaners 6. 16 10. David and Bathsheba 4. Manhattan 7. A pup © 2018 King Features Synd., Inc. 5. None. The state is divided into 64 8. “Archie” parishes 9. Kilo 6. 16 10. David and Bathsheba 7. A pup © 2018 King Features Synd., Inc. 8. “Archie” 9. Kilo 10. David and Bathsheba
LAST ISSUE’S ANSWERS
11.12.2018
© 2018 King Features Synd., Inc. 4.ofFOOD is the name a drink & thatDRINK: mixes ryeWhat whisky, sweet vermouth, a dash bitters a name of a drink that of mixes ryeand whisky, maraschino cherry? a dash of bitters and a sweet vermouth, 5.maraschino U.S. STATES: How many councherry? ties does the state of Louisiana have?coun5. U.S. STATES: How many 6.ties GAMES: How many pieces per does the state of Louisiana have? side 6. areGAMES: in a game of chess? How many pieces per 7.side ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a are in a game of chess? young called? KINGDOM: What is a 7. bat ANIMAL 8.young COMICS: Which long-running bat called? comic-book series features 8. COMICS: Which characters long-running called Jughead, Veronica and Betty? comic-book series features characters 9. LANGUAGE: What is the intercalled Jughead, Veronica and Betty? national radio code word for the letter “K”?9. LANGUAGE: What is the international radio code word for Solothe letter 10. BIBLE: Who were King “K”? mon’s parents? 10. BIBLE: Who were King SoloAnswers mon’s parents? 1. Ronald ReaganAnswers
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