Author Archives: comm5775

Teenager Found Shot After Suspicious Activity Reported

Posted on by

by: Evelyn Call

Sanford, Fl.–Police were dispatched to a local apartment complex on Monday, Feb. 26, after George Zimmerman, a resident, reported suspicious activity in the area.  Upon arrival, authorities discovered an African American teenager, Trayvon Martin, shot dead.   Police questioned Zimmerman in connection with the shooting.

Zimmerman placed a 911 call to report an African American teenager behaving strangely in the neighborhood.  He reported that the suspect, later identified as Martin, seemed to be “on drugs,” according to Zimmerman.  In transcripts of the 911 call released yesterday, Zimmerman attempted to follow the suspect but was advised by dispatch to stop and wait for authorities.

According to police reports, upon arrival, police found Martin face down and non-responsive, with apparent gun shot wounds.  Zimmerman also found at the scene, in possession of a handgun.  Police questioned Zimmerman but did not arrest him at the time of the incident.   According to a brief written by city manager, Norton Bonaparte, Jr., the physical evidence supported Zimmerman’s claims that he shot the teen in self-defense.  Zimmerman was in legal possession of the firearm.

Police and paramedics attempted to revive Martin on the scene but were unable.  He was pronounced dead at 7:30 p.m.  Authorities questioned witnesses in the area and the investigation is ongoing.  Police will continue to monitor the situation to determine whether or not Zimmerman acted in self-defense like he claimed.

University to host Olympic remembrance exhibition

Posted on by

by Ryly Larrinaga

SALT LAKE CITY – In commemoration of the 2002 Olympic Games, the Utah Ski Archives at the J. Willard Marriott Library will host the Olympic Experience Exhibition.

The exhibit will showcase over 4,000 archived photographs and other documentation of the University community’s experience with the 2002 Olympic games and events.

With both opening and closing ceremonies having taken place at the Rice-Eccles Stadium, the university campus served as a central hub of the 2002 Olympics. Additionally, the Olympic Village, which now houses university students, lodged Olympic athletes.

However, the Special Collections Department would like to expand their collection and has asked that anyone in the university community – volunteers, event spectators or those with photos of the campus and the city – to donate artifacts they might have from their experience with the Olympics.

“We’d love to see more donations from the public,” said Roy Webb, multimedia archivist at the library. “It is through individuals that we are able to archive historic collections for future generations.”

Although it has been 10 years since Salt Lake City hosted the Olympics, the 2002 events can be assessable to future generations if the public shares their individual experiences by contributing photos or other documentation to the Utah Ski Archives.

Free and open to the public, the exhibit will be held February 1-29 in the Special Collections Reading Room on the fourth floor.

Edward Abbey lives on at the University of Utah

Posted on by

By: Kristin Bingham

“I am going to try to let you see Ed Abbey and Hear Ed Abbey,”said local and rare book dealer Ken Sanders.

Sanders, a member of Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association of America, spoke to many listeners about Abbey at the event that took place in the University of Utah Gould Auditorium of the Marriott Library March 4th, 2012. Sanders is currently a full time bookseller with other works including a project on Abbey.

The event also includes an exhibit, including a 174-piece collection containing everything Ed Abbey.  The collection includes first edition publications, signed editions, contracts with publishers, magazine and news articles about Abbey as well as posters of books that have become movies. The exhibit with Abbey’s collection took place on the fourth floor after Sander’s speech.

Eric Hvolboll, Attorney and book collector, donated the 174 piece collection containing pictures, films and books of Abbey to the U of U. Hvolboll had other universities fighting over his collection like Arizona State and Standford.

“I chose Utah because it seemed like the right thing to do,” said Hvolboll.

After recognizing such an honor, Sanders began to tell the story of a true legend.

“I am going to try to let you see Ed Abbey and Hear Ed Abbey,” said Sanders as he mentioned that he has not spoken about Abbey so publically. Sanders did just that after his friends passing of about two decades ago.

Edward Abbey, an American author, passed away March 14, 1989. Even though Abbey is no longer among us, books that he wrote like The Monkey Wrench Gang still thrive about.

Throughout Abbey’s life he wrote 20+ books. Millions of copies sold.

“Ed your selling books better dead than you ever did,” said Sanders.

“The Monkey Wrench Gang”, published in 1975, one of Abbey’s most popular, caused a lot of commotion amongst readers. With characters trying to blow up Arizona’s Glen Canyon Dam, Abbey wanted it to come across satirically but to make a point as well. He wanted to enforce how important our environment is.

The Monkey Wrench Gang’s environmental content of sabotage inspired Earth First, which is a non-governmental organization formed in 1979, aims at protecting the wilderness. Abbey didn’t like being considered an environmentalist, but definitely played a part in environmental movements, especially since a lot of his writings had to do with the environment, like Deseret Solitaire, which illustrates the beauty of the Southwest, especially Utah where he worked as a ranger.

Kevin Pang On Mortal Kombat, Interviewing & Bacon

Posted on by

by RYAN LITTLEFIELD

When he was 13, Kevin Pang loved two things: Mortal Kombat and bacon.  The video game inspired him to begin writing as he strove to write about video games for a living.  Pang eventually accepted a job for the Chicago Tribune, where he began eating and writing about food; but interviewing is how Pang got his job today.

Offering to share his knowledge of interviewing techniques, which contributed to his success, Pang gave a speech in a news writing class at the University of Utah last Tuesday.

Being prepared and knowing the topic is the number one rule of interviewing, according to Pang.  It is important to ask follow-up questions and to clarify each question. While interviewing, it is important to listen and absorb. While taking notes, write simple prompts.

Pang believes the three best questions to ask in an interview are why, what do you mean, and how can you be sure?  Each of these explains motives and character, clarifies, and begs for complex explanations.

The final interviewing technique Pang offered to students is when an interviewee offers no comment.  Reply with, “I feel bad putting a no comment in the story because I feel the readers will think your trying to hide something; so let’s talk about it.”  Interviewing requires journalists and public relations professionals alike to be tough, yet compassionate and friendly.

Although Pang never achieved his teenage dream of reviewing video games for a living, his interviewing techniques led him to become a credible food critic who loves his job.

“I write about things that I like,” like cheap foods and restaurants, “that’s what interests me, so that’s what I want to write about,” said Pang.  He also suggests all writers find something they are passionate about – then write about it.  Oh, and always add bacon.

The Happiest Place On Earth Just Got Better

Posted on by

By: Bradley Hunsaker

As a man who grew up close to the big barbeque states of the South, I have had my fair share of good meats over the years.  Some will even say I have become very picky when it comes to how I take my barbeque.  There is one thing that never disappoints every time I have the chance to get it though.  The giant turkey legs of the Disney theme parks.

Now I know what you are thinking, can’t you get those at any renaissance fair or medieval times restaurant?  The answer is yes, but they are just not as good.   It may be the way Disney smokes the meat or the type of wood they use but there is a unique flavour and tenderness to Disney turkey legs that sets it apart from all others.

When you first purchase the drumstick whose size can only really be described as that of a newborn baby’s head you feel a sense of accomplishment for men everywhere that they even make a slab of meat this big.  In fact, once you tear open the foil and wrapping surrounding the leg it gets you immediate attention; admiration and questions from the men asking where you get such an awesome meal and looks of disgust and awe from their wives wondering what animal this possibly could have come from.  Despite it probably being smoked overnight and brought into the park early that morning, the smell and taste of the meat is very warm and fresh.

The meat itself is very tender and juicy which is a hard accomplishment for something this size.  A lot of giant turkey legs can be very dry from having to be smoked so long to ensure the meat is cooked.  I can only guess that there is some sort of basting process mid-smoke to ensure the meat stays juicy which in turn helps its tenderness.  The taste is very traditional when it comes to barbeque.  There seems to be no added spices or rubs to the meat, just the natural flavour of the turkey and the subtle yet ever so tasty smoky flavour that comes from the wood they chose to use.  The combination of taste and texture is what keeps you eating despite the nagging thought in the back of your mind that you are going to have to go on rides with an overly full stomach of turkey goodness.

As far as price goes, it is your normal theme park expense.  One turkey leg will usually run between $8-$9 but that is around the same cost as any other meal in the park and I can guarantee this will fill you up just as well.  The legs can be found in Disneyland, Calif. and Disney World, Fla. and possibly other Disney locations around the world.  Don’t take my word for it though, next time you find yourself in one of the parks have a go at one and I can promise you won’t be disappointed.

University of Utah Participates in the Great ShakeOut

Posted on by

by Brent Flory

SALT LAKE CITY-At 10:10 AM on Tuesday, April 17, around 30 students were sitting in Mom’s Café on the first level of the Marriott Library preparing to drop, cover and hold in preparation for the statewide earthquake drill.  The workers of the café even closed up shop in order to join in the largest-ever building evacuation at the University of Utah.

The reason for the drill is in preparation for the next major earthquake predicted to shake the Wasatch front.  The Wasatch fault has a major earthquake every 350 to 400 years and the last one was 350 years ago.  Local government is urging Utahans now to get prepared.

The clock struck 10:15 and the students in the café dropped, covered and held on as instructed.  After a minute the students in the Library evacuated out of the west entrance library doors and walked over with umbrellas in hand to their designated Evacuation Assembly Point (EAP) in the lot west of Rice-Eccles Stadium.  The stadium was just one of nine EAPs on campus, where volunteers provided students with 72-hour survival kits and a card to enter a contest to win an iPad 2 for their participation.

The rain poured but that didn’t stop hundreds of students from gathering west of the stadium.  According to Fox 13 News, an estimated 40,000 university students and faculty participated in the drill.  Dallin Billings, a senior communications major, was happy to participate.

“We’ve all witnessed the amount of damage from Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans and recent tornado destruction in Texas… disaster could happen anytime and you want to be ready for it,” Billings said.

Along with the thousands of students and faculty who participated, many groups and organizations around campus volunteered their time to make the drill a success.  Cindy Harling, of the University Counseling Center and one of the staff members working the EAP in the stadium lot, feels the campus-wide drill was a great way to create awareness.

“We want students to understand of the situation… we live in an earthquake zone, you might want to be prepared.  The students seem to be really into it and are becoming more aware of what they can do to be ready for crisis,” said Harling.

University of Utah students weren’t the only ones in Utah preparing for the predicted earthquake.  According to the ShakeOut’s website, over 940,000 Utahans participated making it the largest emergency drill in the state of Utah.  Patrick Miller, a Utah student, happened to be at work during the ShakeOut.

“Sure enough, at 10:15, they had everyone in my office drop to the ground and cover themselves.  Something that I hadn’t done since elementary school”

 Miller said after the drill his work provided him with a “be ready” pamphlet, containing helpful readiness information linking to the website http://bereadyutah.gov.

Utahans are being encouraged by the state Government to have an emergency preparedness kit.  If disaster were to strike, many could be left without access to food or water for weeks.  It is vital to be prepared now.

$250,000 Awarded to the Moran Eye Center

Posted on by

by Erica Hartmann

SALT LAKE CITY- Research to Prevent Blindness has awarded two grants to the Moran Eye Center to support research to the causes, treatment and prevention of blinding diseases.

The two grants were given to Dr. Gregory Hageman and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. Hageman was granted a $150,000 Senior Scientific Investigator Award and the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences received $100,000. Department Chairman Dr. Randall J Olson will direct the usage of this grant.

Hageman is the Director of the Moran Center for translational medicine and has written more than 100 referred publications. His primary research interest is the assessment of age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of irreversible worldwide blindness.

Olson, the CEO of the Moran Center, is a specialist in the research of intra-ocular lens complications, as well as corneal transplants. He has also been selected as one of the 15 best cataract surgeons in the United States.

The RPB is the world’s leading voluntary organization supporting eye research. They’ve awarded grants totaling $4,765,300 to the University of Utah.

Olson stated, “We are grateful to the RPB for their charitable gifts and continual support of our research. These gifts will further the studies that will lead to treatments and cures for devastating eye diseases.”

Their goal is for no person with a visual impairment to be without hope, knowledge and treatment. For more information on RPB and the grants visit www.rpbusa.org.

Professor gives a lesson on ethics and morals

Posted on by

By: Kristin Bingham

Associate professor and lecturer Jim Fisher illustrated the difference between morals and ethics through comical stories and examples for a news writing class Tuesday.

“I thought that ethics and morals were a little different but didn’t realize how different they really are-I thought they always overlapped,” said strategic communication major Ryly Larrinaga, who was present during his speech.

Fisher shared stories to help clarify where ethics is needed in reporting. One of the stories he shared was called Sunday, published for the Columbia Missourian Sunday Magazine. Sunday really touched on how to write a genuine story that could turn controversial when ethics aren’t considered.  The story is about John Hamilton who is a swimming coach at Hickman High School. The story discusses his success as a coach but also how he has touched hundreds of lives.

Among the different aspects of ethics that Fisher discussed, he really emphasized that gut feelings may be the best thing in determining what is ethical.

“Morals and morality seem to have conscience, religion and rules. Ethics is the process of making a choice, what is the best decision at the time,” said Fisher.

Overall Fisher’s lecture helped to clear up some of the confusion between morals and ethics. Ellen Lewis, a student among the news class who heard his speech, had this to say: “Fisher changed my point of view. Morals have a conscience-you can still be immoral and practice good ethics.”

Green Committee Holds Showing of Short Film

Posted on by

by Brent Flory

SALT LAKE CITY-“Get involved in politics,” said Carrie Brooks.

This is the message heard by students, faculty and employees who were in attendance at showing of the short film “The Story of Broke” last Wednesday as part of the Green Bag Lunch Series at the University of Utah.  Brooks is an accountant for the Marriott Library and a green advisor at the U.

“Get who you want in office.  They are the ones who make the decisions for us if we don’t get who we want,” she said.

Brooks was echoing the words of the film by Annie Leonard, the author of the book, The Story of Stuff and environmentalist who has spent nearly two decades investigating environmental health and justice issues.  The Story of Broke argues that if the government would do a better job of spending the nation’s tax dollars, this would free up funds to plan for a better financial future.  Leonard suggests that rather than spending $726 billion a year on the military for unnecessary fighter planes and wars with no end, the money could be better used towards social security or educational programs.

“We are cutting programs that people need.  We don’t have to cut Medicare or Social Security.  If we spend money on other things, it ends up costing tax payers more money,” said Jan Robertson who attended the event.

The film also discusses tax breaks and subsidies that benefit large corporations allowing for streets that lead nowhere except to the newest shopping center.  Leonard says the large subsidies could amount to billions of dollars to be used toward paying off national debt or to provide solar power to U.S homes.

When asked her thoughts on the short film by Leonard, Brooks completely agrees.  “ We’ve taken capitalism out of it.  We shouldn’t be bailing out companies,” she said.

She isn’t the only one who feels the government could spend less money on major corporations.  David Maxfield, senior library specialist, attended the film showing and is very irritated with the nation’s current economic status.

“It’s very frustrating because this country isn’t broke.  There are cuts that need to be made…think of all the jobs that could be created if the government were to invest in recycling and going green,” said Maxfield, referring to the number of employees that would be needed to gather recycling bins on a weekly basis.

Although the film focused on suggested improvements for the government, the overall message of the event was to encourage the community to get involved.  The University of Utah Green Committee is dedicated to implementing green initiatives. The committee is responsible for the many recycling bins found in every building throughout campus. Former Utah student and current web developer for the library, Amanda Crittenden first got involved with the green committee while a student.

“ I got involved because I wanted to make a difference and stand for something positive.  I have learned so much from simply getting involved,” Crittenden said.

Those involved with the green project at the U truly believe in moving toward sustainability.  More information can be found online at http://sustainability.utah.edu/green-teams/computing.php.

LATEST NATIONAL GALLUP POLL PRETTY REPRESENTATIVE OF LOCAL STUDENT’S OPINIONS

Posted on by

by Andrew S. Jones

SALT LAKE CITY – The majority of American voters share consensus on what the most influential issues regarding their vote will be in the upcoming November elections. The best candidate for the job, however, is still a toss up according to the latest Gallup poll.

The topic of healthcare received the highest ratings of either extremely or very important followed by unemployment and the federal budget.

While putting some voice to the numbers, people on campus show a broad set of opinions, but show no signs of a committed vote.

“I consider myself more moderate, however in [Utah] I just take that to mean I am a democrat,” said campus advisor Charlotte Hansenterry who felt that healthcare and unemployment would be her two biggest factors to consider for the upcoming elections.

Hansenterry made it clear she was worried about the Tea Party’s influence in the GOP and how it seemingly is splitting the party.

“I feel the lesser to two evils would be voting for Obama at this point,” she said, “but my opinion could change at any moment.”

Strategic communications major, Joel McAllister added that he puts a lot of weight behind the candidate’s plan to support research.

“I would like to hear what the debates will bring out from the candidates on that issue as well before I decide. “

McAllister also stated that he is paying attention to track records. When asked who is more convincing, he assured he still wasn’t absolute.

“Obama is always very convincing, but he hasn’t delivered yet. That being said, I’m leaning more towards Mitt Romney and his record at this point.”

Freshmen Wilma Lazaro-Urcinole admits she first needs to get up to speed.

“This is my first election to vote in, but all I know is the a lot of people don’t like Romney.”

Ryan Littlefield

Posted on by

MY STORIES:

MY RESUME:

EDUCATION

2005-2008       Lone Peak High School       Highland, UT.

Received high school diploma, member of Honors Society and cumulative 3.7 G.P.A.

2008-2009       Southern Virginia University       Buena Vista, VA.

Attended with an athletic scholarship for women’s basketball.

2009-2011       Utah Valley University       Orem, UT.

Focus on biology with a 3.4 cumulative G.P.A.

2011-Present       University of Utah       Salt Lake City, UT.

A 3.2 transfer G.P.A. with declared major in Mass Communication, Journalism.

EXTRA-CIRRICULAR

  • ŸAssistant Coach for Maple Mountain High School Girls Basketball 2009-2010 basketball season
  • ŸPlayed Varsity for SVU Women’s Basketball starting as a freshman
  • ŸPlayed three years of Women’s Varsity Basketball, starting for 2 years

ACCREDITATIONS & AWARDS

  • ŸDean’s List Honor Roll Utah Valley University 2009-2010
  • ŸFour Varsity Letter awards for Basketball
  • ŸAcademic Athlete in Basketball 2005-2006, 2006-2007, 2007-2008
  • ŸSecond Team All Region Girls Basketball 2006-2007
  • ŸAll-State Honorable Mention Girls Basketball 2007-2008
  • ŸAll-Region Honorable Mention Girls Basketball 2007-2008

EMPLOYMENT

May 2009-April 2011       Gandolfo’s       American Fork, UT.

Cashier/Cook

  • Accountable for customer communication in person and over the phone, cash handling and preparation of foods.  Involved in marketing and advertising for specific stores (AF, PG, Provo).  In charge of training new employees.

April 2011-July 2011       StoresOnline       Orem, UT.

Receptionist/Quick Start Rep.

  • Responsible for answering telephones, creating Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel Sheets, typing information into databases and training new employees.  In charge of creative board designs, informing managers of changes and modest receptionist work.

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE

  • ŸFriends For Sight – Vision screening for adults
  • ŸBasketball Camp Assistant – Lone Peak High School, 2 years
  • ŸOperation Smile – Raise money for children in Africa

ABOUT ME:

University of Utah student with a declared major in mass communication, journalism sequence.  Maintains a gaming blog entitled Game Looters at http://www.gamelooters.com.  Practice in interviewing techniques and several news and magazine writing styles while finishing work towards a bachelor’s degree.  Writing for a magazine or an online news media corporation is the ideal goal upon completion with school.

Mia Love Earns GOP Nomination in Fourth District

Posted on by

 by: Evelyn Call

Mia Love, Fourth District congressional candidate, dominated the competition and earned 70.4 percent of the delegate vote on Saturday at the Republican Nominating Convention.

Love faced serious challenges from former state legislators Carl Wimmer and Steve Sandstrom for the newly created fourth congressional district GOP nomination, but she secured victory with the majority of the vote.

“I was hoping, I am not in the habit of making predictions like that, but I was hoping and we did it,” Love said.

Love’s campaign was steadily gaining traction In the days leading up to the convention.  In a poll of delegates taken by Utah Foundation, Love had a 13-point lead over her nearest challenger Wimmer, who had 25 percent.

Wimmer had been campaigning for a year and had secured high-profile endorsements from Senator Mike Lee and Attorney General Mark Shurtleff.  As one of the Patrick Henry caucus founders, Wimmer ran on a platform of strengthening states rights and restoring constitutional principles.

Love’s campaign gained national attention and donations from the likes of Republican House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, R-Va.; House Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif.; and Wisconsin Rep. Paul Ryan. These endorsements carried weight, but getting the coveted endorsement from Josh Romney, who by proxy represents an endorsement from presidential hopeful Governor Mitt Romney, was enough to help clench the nomination.

During her convention speech Love made the case she was the better candidate to face Democratic Incumbent Jim Matheson in the general election this fall. The delegates agreed by evidence of their support.

“Today we have an opportunity to do something very special, today we can start breaking a pattern, today we can start bringing Jim Matheson home,” Love said.

Love is the daughter of Haitian immigrants and has run on her record of fiscal conservatism as the mayor of Saratoga Springs.  She worked with city council members to cut spending and reduce the city’s shortfall from $3.5 million to $779,000.  The city of Saratoga Springs now has the highest bond rating for a city of its size.

Love’s efforts were met with harsh criticism.  According to the Salt Lake Tribune article, “Mia Love; budget hawk or big spender”, in order to reduce the city’s debt tough decisions were made.  The city cut the budget by about $2 million and laid off eight of the 85 employees. Love also more than doubled the property tax rates, imposing a 116 percent increase.  This was a controversial move according to most residents.

“It got to the point that I could not afford to live in the city anymore.  I was tired of the government spending money it didn’t have and expecting residents to foot the bill,” said Becky Pirente, former Saratoga Springs resident.

If Love is successful in her bid to be the fourth district’s representative, she will be the first Republican African American female to serve in Congress, Love refuses to let this dominate her campaign message.

“Saratoga Springs doesn’t have the best bond rating because I’m black and female. It’s because of the policies we put in place, “ Love said.  “I am proud of my roots, but it is my principles of fiscal discipline, limited government and personal responsibility that are a truer reflection of who I am.”

Festival of Colors becoming the new “Thing to Do” for Young Adults

Posted on by

By Daniel Paniagua

SPANISH FORK, Utah – On Saturday, over 75,000 young adults crowded the Krishna temple in Spanish Fork for the annual Festival of Colors.

“There were so many people there that I couldn’t move,” said Kathryn Lowry, “I’ve never been anywhere in my life where there were so many people in one place”.

According to various college students such as 20-year-old Kaitlin Thomas from BYU, Festival of Colors, otherwise known as Holi, has become an annual event that “everyone” attends every year.

“Everyone that I pretty much know goes… It is an event that all my friends and I look forward to,” says college student, Thomas, “I mean, who doesn’t like colored powder thrown at them?”

Most young adults would agree with Thomas, however, there are those who were skeptical of the “fun” behind colored powder being tossed. Twenty-two-year old Richard Loveridge felt somewhat hesitant to participate in the festival but soon came to realize why it is such a “popular” event.

“At first I was a bit skeptical about the whole throwing colors around in a field but I soon came to realize what the hype was all about,” said Loveridge, “It was fun!”

While many young adults go to throw brightly colored powder at one another, there are those who come for the Indian food and bands like Jai Uttal and the Queen of Hearts Orchestra, The Mayapuris and The Kirtaniya Vibrations.

Daryl Jay Lenhart, 23-year-old from the Salt Lake area brought his family for the first time and intends to bring them back the following years to come.

“The food was incredible, we had spiced mangos and vegetable curries,” said Lenhart, “the bands were actually very good as well, in fact my family and I spent the majority of the time eating and dancing. Throwing colored powder was fun but the food and music was the highlight of the festival.”

After the Festival of Colors ended, the participants carefully entered the car and “anxiously waited in endless traffic to go home and take a shower” according to Loveridge. This year, the Krishnas had planned and made arrangements to host a larger crowd than last year’s event. However, some of the participants were not sure if they had planned for quite large enough of a crowd.

“The traffic was miserable,” said Lenhart, “I waited for more than an hour before I could actually move my car.”

Spanish Fork is now the biggest Holi festival in the Western Hemisphere according to ISKCON News. Another Festival of Colors will take place at the Krishna temple in Salt Lake City on April 14th, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

STUDENTS LEARN ABOUT ORGANIC FARMING FOR LOVE YOUR BODY WEEK

Posted on by

by Andrew S. Jones

SALT LAKE CITY – A local organic-certified farmer stressed food quality and color when considering nutrition to a group of students at the University of Utah annex building Tuesday, Feb. 28 in commemoration of Love Your Body week.

David Bell is the co-owner of Bell Organic, a local organic farm that has been situated in Draper, Utah for the last fourteen years. Wearing a light dress hat and exposing his chest through an opened plaid shirt, Bell shared how his lifestyle and food appetites have changed since being a famer and the impact simple things can have on students.

Bell was invited as a keynote speaker in a week’s worth of events called Love Your Body, Love Your Land week, presented by a student committee that collectively identifies themselves as SPEAK. SPEAK is an acronym that stands for Students Promoting Eating Disorder Awareness and Knowledge.

“Guess what, fresh-everything tastes better,” Bell said while passing around a tray of two large Spanish tortillas made only of freshly-grown produce from his farm. He said his rule-of-thumb centers around fresh ingredients and that freshness equates to better nutrition and taste.

While the ambient sounds of crunching and hearty swallows filled the room, Bell spoke openly about his experience becoming a farmer and the impact it has played on his and his family’s lives. What started out as a small 4-by-8 foot all organic garden in the backyard of Bell’s Sugar House area home, turned into a half-acre plot he and his wife Jill purchased when they decided to go into the business of farming together. The plot used to be an old dairy farm in Draper, Utah. These decisions came about while Bell was between jobs and without any prior farming experience.

“I had heard that a half billion people in China were being fed by one-half acre farms,” Bell said, before explaining how he felt Salt Lake County could sustain something similar just fine with the available resources, population, and perceived demand. The venture has since become a success. Now just over 25 acres in size, the farm also hosts a community supported agriculture program (CSA) that feeds more than 150 households every week during the farming season, all while following federal regulations to maintain an all-organic crop.

Bell also shared that there are plenty of side benefits to farming that he enjoys besides just the fresh food. He particularly enjoys being in shape and staying tan throughout the season while admitting that his weight fluctuates by as much as 20 pounds offseason.

“In the offseason I work as a real estate agent,” Bell said, just before jokingly stating “I have both the most overcompensated and undercompensated jobs in America.”

“While SPEAK is focused on body, this year we also wanted to include your land; hence the title and Mr. Bell,” said Brittany Badger, a graduate student studying health promotion and education under Reel. This is Badger’s third year being involved with SPEAK and Love Your Body week. While taking a sigh of relief after the day’s event and presentation, when asked what she thought of the tortilla, there was no hesitation. “It was amazing,” she said, “It may have been the best thing I’ve eaten.”

“This is the tenth anniversary of SPEAK and Love Your Body week,” said SPEAK founder and faculty advisor Justine Reel, Ph.D and assistant professor in the Department of Health at the University of Utah. “It started off with just four students who wanted to get involved,” she said while elaborating on how she feels the endeavor has evolved into a successful medium to reach out to students struggling with eating disorders. Reel also explained that the Love your body, love your land events share the same week as the National Eating Disorders Awareness week and therefore makes the events even more significant and in-line with the group’s mission.

According to the SPEAK homepage, the group is made up of many diverse students who promote self-esteem, self-efficacy, healthy body image, and healthy eating habits. Their mission is to promote awareness of eating disorders and body image issues through educating diverse populations, developing strategies for prevention, providing resources for treatment, and conducting relevant research.

For more information about SPEAK, visit http://web.utah.edu/speak.html

New Poll Reveals Importance of National Budget in Upcoming Election

Posted on by

by Brent Flory

SALT LAKE CITY-According to a new poll conducted by Gallup, registered voters say the presidential candidates’ views on the federal budget deficit and national debt will be extremely important in determining who gets their vote.

For President Barack Obama, this means focusing his campaign on plans to decrease national debt.  If not successfully executed, it could be the end of the road for Obama.

            According to the poll, released on Monday, 83 percent of Democrats say the federal budget deficit and national debt will strongly influence their choice for president.  If Mitt Romney wins the Republican nomination, he could gain some Democratic votes, if voters believe he is the better choice for the economy.

            Local voters agree with the poll.  Amber Christenson, a Salt Lake Community College student, said, “I was one of the biggest Obama supporters in 2008 but the national debt just continues to increase.  I won’t be voting for him in November.”

            Christenson said she agrees with many of President Obama’s views however, the economy is most important in determining her vote.

            The poll also revealed 83 percent of Republicans feel the issue of national debt is imperative in making their choice for president.  University of Utah student Brett Andrews, a declared Republican, said he will vote for the candidate that has developed the best economic blueprint.

            “We are paying billions of dollars in interest…we aren’t even paying off our deficit.  I’m going to choose the candidate with the best economic plan in place,” said Andrews.

            Gas prices are also important to voters, according to the new poll.  Of the registered voters polled, 73 percent said gas prices were important when they fill out their ballots.

            When asked to what degree of importance gas prices in determining his vote, Andrews replied, “Economy is most important.  If the economy is in-line, gas prices naturally will go down.”

            Complete details of the poll can be found online at http://www.gallup.com.

City Creek Center Helping Small Businesses Downtown

Posted on by

By Erica Hartmann

SALT LAKE CITY- The doors of the new 700,000 square-foot mall, City Creek Center, have been open for about a month now, but the traffic hasn’t seemed to slow down yet! City Creek seems to be the “face-lift” that downtown Salt Lake City needed. The hoards of people excited to see the new center have made City Creek’s grand-opening a success and have also helped the existing stores and restaurants in the area.

            Many things have attracted shoppers to the new center. An impressive retractable roof (something entirely new to the United States, the only other exists in Dubai), a brand new sky bridge that crosses overtop Main Street, as well as a handful of new stores to the Salt Lake area (Michael Kors, Brooks Brothers, Pandora, Porsche Design, and Tiffany & Co. just to name a few).

            The stores have made money like they couldn’t believe. Kaleb Larsen, an employee in the men’s department of Nordstrom said, “It’s been non-stop busy. The first day we opened we made our entire day’s sales goal in the first hour, and it hasn’t seemed to slow down much from opening weekend. It’s been great for me since I work on commission.”

            It’s been a similar story at the smaller stores in the center as well. Suke Wilkins, one of the managers at Banana Republic said, “On an average Saturday we’ll have 2,700 people in the store, that’s more than we did at Gateway in an entire week. It’s been crazy, but a good crazy.” Wilkins also said, “We’ve hired on about five more people since opening the new store, we need more coverage and are making the money to be able to hire more people. It’s great!”

            Everyone is excited to see the new mall and the shoppers seem to be willing to spend the money needed to at these high-end stores. Many people questioned whether or not the higher price-point stores would do well in a market like Salt Lake, but so far, they seem to be fairing very well. Jenn Smith, a sales associate at Tiffany & Co. said, “most days we have to form a line outside the store because so many people want to come in. A lot of people are just curious and look around, but there have been a lot of buyers as well. Business is good so far.”

            With the new mall placed smack-dab in downtown, questions were raised about how the locally-owned and smaller business on Main Street would be affected. William Lewis, an employee of the sandwich shop Gandolfos, located on Main Street a few blocks south of City Creek said, “We’ve always been busy with the all the businesses and high-rises located so close to us, and City Creek definitely hasn’t hurt business. We’ve seen an increase on Saturdays.” He also stated, “The food court is nice at City Creek, but it’s always so crowded, I’ve heard a lot of people come in saying they had to get away from all the people.”

            Eva’s, a popular restaurant on Main Street has also seen an increase since City Creek opened. Nicole Wallace a waitress at Eva’s stated, “We’ve seen a lot of shoppers come down here for a bite to eat. I think the Cheesecake Factory is really the only sit-down dinning option for shoppers over there, and I’ve heard there’s always over an hour wait. We have much better, locally-grown food than the Cheesecake Factory, and we can usually seat people right away.”

            There is one other restaurant besides The Cheesecake Factory located at City Creek, called Texas de Brazil, but you’ll have to spend much more money to dine there than you would at most restaurants located on Main Street (and most likely the food will be better and you won’t have to wait at the restaurants on Main).

            City Creek is a new and exciting place to come visit and it seems to be helping all the small businesses around this enormous new mall. Luckily for the small, delicious restaurants located on Main Street, the eating options at the mall are limited and super crowded, causing shoppers to venture a few blocks south for a bite to eat.

            So come down and spend some money (most likely a lot considering the price-points at most stores) while also supporting the older, smaller shops and restaurants on Main Street. Downtown Salt Lake is definitely becoming a place to visit with many different things to offer!

Controversy arising over Utah mall code of conduct

Posted on by

by Ryly Larrinaga

SALT LAKE CITY – With the recent opening of the City Creek Center in downtown Salt Lake City, reports of homosexual couples being escorted off mall property have arisen, creating controversy between citizens and mall officials.

The mall, which became open to the public on March 22, 2012, has received numerous complaints in regards to people being asked to leave the shopping center because of what they are doing.

However, City Creek officials are denying these rumors and attribute it to an exaggeration of the City Creek Center code of conduct that has been instated.

Hanna Kirsten, a student at the University of Utah and frequent City Creek Center shopper, feels that the code of conduct is often times exaggerated and made to seem over-the-top. Until, she witnessed mall security escorting two men off mall property that had been publicly kissing and holding hands.

“It was definitely interesting to see the reaction of the two men who were asked to leave. They looked devastated… It was saddening to watch,” said Kirsten.

Kirsten also said that she left the mall immediately after the situation occurred, mainly because she felt uncomfortable with the attention it caused from surrounding mall attendees.

“It’s not everyday that you see two men being escorted off premises for displaying affection. Especially, when the heterosexual couple next to you is doing the same thing, if not, even more inappropriately and over-the-top,” said Kirsten.

The code of conduct, which is posted on the City Creek Center website, states“…management reserves the right to prohibit any activity or conduct which is detrimental to or inconsistent with a first-class, family oriented shopping center.”

Although, nowhere in the code of conduct does it mention that public displays of affection are prohibited, regardless of the person’s sexual orientation.

“We will not tolerate any activity in terms of people not treating others with respect. Period,” said Karen MacDonald, a Taubman spokesperson, in a QSaltLake magazine interview.

MacDonald also said, “City Creek Center is a place for everyone and we want everyone to come here and have a great experience. There have been precious few times that we’ve had to speak to someone about their conduct in the Center and I have to say the experience has been very positive overall.”

Many are blaming the situation on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, claiming that the church is responsible for enforcing the code of conduct and creating an unequal environment.

Taubman Centers, Inc., manages the mall property and says that the Mormon Church has not had a say or influence in creating the shopping center rules.

For Robert Yorgason, who was raised LDS and openly revealed eight years ago that he is gay, thinks the situation has just created an opportunity for people to protest and cause a scene.

“It is immature when you see people exaggerate the extent of a situation to raise awareness to a greater issue, it just gives us (homosexuals) a bad reputation,” said Yorgason.

City Creek Center currently has an appeals process in place and if patrons feel they have been unfairly targeted, mall management wants to hear about it, said MacDonald.

Rural Land Legislation Unpopular with Environmental Activists

Posted on by

by Evelyn Call

Choice words were expressed towards Utah state legislators on Sunday at an event held to honor the writings of Edward Abbey, beloved environmentalist and author.  Ken Sanders, guest lecturer and close friend of Abbey, criticized local government officials for legislation introduced that would take back 30 million acres of federal land to be managed by the state.

The legislation introduced would set a 2014 deadline for the federal government to relinquish lands that are not national parks, military installations or wilderness.  In all, this constitutes about 50 percent of the entire state. The bill received final approval by the state legislature and is headed for the governor’s desk, where it’s expected to be signed into law.

“Whom are they taking back the land from? Utah has never owned that land.  Are they going to take it back to give to the Indians and Mexicans?” said Sanders.

Sanders’ sentiment was met with thunderous applause by the mostly older, environmentally conscious audience at an event held at the Marriott Library on University of Utah campus.  The hour-long event featured the writings of Edward Abbey, author of most notably “The Desert Solitaire” and “Monkey Wrench Gang.”   Both books, which became famous for their picturesque description of the landscape that surrounds southern Utah and northern Arizona, also became rallying cries for the modern environmental movement.

Abbey’s influence on environmental preservation was evident by the people who showed up Sunday to enjoy his writings and to honor him even 23 years after his death.  Many in the audience shook their heads and clapped, mirroring Sanders’ outrage at the current rural land legislation introduced by the state legislature.  The fear held by many is that the land, once under state and county domain, will be over developed by the oil and gas industry.

“I understand the need for oil and gas development.  I drove a car to this event but it is a trade off and not one I think we should make.  As Abbey would say ‘Growth for the sake of growth is a cancer’s ideology’,” said Sanders.

Jim, an employee of the federal government who didn’t feel comfortable disclosing his last name because of his position, said, “I think it’s a mistake to pass this legislation, the state legislature should be embarrassed.”

“I thinks it’s ridiculous what they are doing, this land was never Utah’s land.  We only got this state because it was understood that this would be federal land,“ said Krista Bowers, an environmental activist.

While discussing the current legislation, Sanders said, “I don’t think I know what Edward Abbey would think about some of the things that are going on.  I’m just not sure his old school monkey wrenching, burning down billboards, wrecking bulldozers is really going to have any impact anymore.  The stakes have gotten more and more serious.”

While there was much debate over the current environmental movement, part of the event also included the unveiling of a new exhibit at the Marriott Library. The exhibit showcases the history of Abbey’s writings and memorabilia from the author’s life long love affair with his surroundings in the deserts of the southwest. The exhibit will be available to the public for the entire month of March.  (543 word count)

Blockbuster’s rental days hit a dead end

Posted on by

By: Kristin Bingham

SALT LAKE CITY-The well known video rental store Blockbuster, is losing its popularity. Established in 1985 in Dallas, it has grown and become known throughout the U.S. taking out competitors like Hollywood Video. Blockbuster is now facing a new competitor that could cause video rental stores to become extinct: advanced technology.

Company’s like Netflix, Comcast and Redbox have given video rental stores like Blockbuster a run for their money. The idea of a video rental store is to allow consumers to watch a movie in the comfort of their home. Netflix makes that idea even more realistic, since you don’t even have to leave your home anymore, you can instantly stream movies or have movies delivered to you. It’s a scary thought, since a lot of the 90’s babies have grown up with renting videos. The trip to the video store was an adventure for some and to think they might all become extinct is a bit overwhelming but it is happening. As hard as it might be for consumers to get a hold of, it is also difficult for the employees.

One employee, Refija Kavazovic has this to say about her store closing in West Valley:

“It is really tough because I have been working there for almost a year and have got used to the job and employees. Most of us at my store only have that as a part time job or just some extra money, but there is one person that it is his main income and uses it to support his family. They say they will try to transfer most of us, but with a Blockbuster closing every month it seems you can only place so many employees.”

A store manager at the Sandy store, who wants to remain anonymous, says she has seen a majority of the Blockbusters in Utah close and thinks that they will indeed keep on closing as they don’t have a chance.

University of Utah student, Breanne Thorup has this to say about the Blockbuster store closing by her apartment in Taylorsviille

“I am pretty bummed since it was so close to my house, now if I ever want to rent a movie from there I will have to drive further.”

With stores closing, Blockbuster still tries to stay in the game by following in the footsteps of Netflix. They offer video rentals on line which are delivered to your home. They also offer game rentals and guarantee that they have many new releases almost a month before Netflix and Redbox get them. The one thing they are missing is the capability to stream video like Netflix via computer or game console.

Assistant lab tech in the Telecom department of the University of Utah, Michael Hansen thinks Netflix will continue to stay strong.

“Right now the majority of feature film distribution is facilitated via FTP. It’s quickly becoming more rare now for a theatre let alone the studio, to deal with actual celluloid film. So Netflix is definitely a proof of concept and will last as they continue to innovate,” said Hansen.

Blockbuster hasn’t vanished off the earth yet and could possibly make a comeback if they convert over to the online watch immediately side. Until then, Netflilx remains the top dog in video “renting.”

U. of U. showcases Olympic memories

Posted on by

By Rebekah-Anne Gebler

SALT LAKE CITY— The Utah Ski Archives opened the Olympic Experience Exhibition at the J. Willard Marriott Library on Wednesday, marking the 10th anniversary of the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Games and Paralympics.

This exhibit displays thousands of photos, documents, videos, books and magazine articles relating to games.

The Special Collections Department, which is the official repository for all 2002 Olympic records, gathered its sources from anyone who was involved in the games from the University community.

“It is through individuals that we are able to archive historic collections for future generations,” said Roy Webb, multimedia archivist at the Marriott Library.

This free exhibit allows the public to witness new viewpoints of the games, seeing it through the lens of spectators, volunteers and visitors.

Hosting the exhibit at the library adds to the influence the U. of U. had during the Olympics. Some of the current on-campus housing served as the Olympic Village—the housing for the athletes—while the Rice-Eccles Stadium hosted the opening and closing ceremonies.

The exhibit will run through Feb. 29. To send in your photos from the 2002 Olympics or to discover more, please visit http://tinyurl.com/Oly-Exp-ML.

Blockbuster’s renting days hit a dead end

Posted on by

By: Kristin Bingham

Blockbuster’s renting days hit a dead end

SALT LAKE CITY-The well known video rental store Blockbuster, is losing its popularity. Established in 1985 in Dallas, it has grown and become known throughout the U.S. taking out competitors like Hollywood Video. Blockbuster is now facing a new competitor that could cause video rental stores to become extinct: advanced technology.

Company’s like Netflix, Comcast and Redbox have given video rental stores like Blockbuster a run for their money. The idea of a video rental store is to allow consumers to watch a movie in the comfort of their home. Netflix makes that idea even more realistic, since you don’t even have to leave your home anymore, you can instantly stream movies or have movies delivered to you. It’s a scary thought, since a lot of the 90’s babies have grown up with renting videos. The trip to the video store was an adventure for some and to think they might all become extinct is a bit overwhelming but it is happening. As hard as it might be for consumers to get a hold of, it is also difficult for the employees.

One employee, Refija Kavazovic has this to say about her store closing in West Valley:

“It is really tough because I have been working there for almost a year and have got used to the job and employees. Most of us at my store only have that as a part time job or just some extra money, but there is one person that it is his main income and uses it to support his family. They say they will try to transfer most of us, but with a Blockbuster closing every month it seems you can only place so many employees.”

A store manager at the Sandy store, who wants to remain anonymous, says she has seen a majority of the Blockbusters in Utah close and thinks that they will indeed keep on closing as they don’t have a chance.

University of Utah student, Breanne Thorup has this to say about the Blockbuster store closing by her apartment in Taylorsviille

“I am pretty bummed since it was so close to my house, now if I ever want to rent a movie from there I will have to drive further.”

With stores closing, Blockbuster still tries to stay in the game by following in the footsteps of Netflix. They offer video rentals on line which are delivered to your home. They also offer game rentals and guarantee that they have many new releases almost a month before Netflix and Redbox get them. The one thing they are missing is the capability to stream video like Netflix via computer or game console.

Assistant lab tech in the Telecom department of the University of Utah, Michael Hansen thinks Netflix will continue to stay strong.

“Right now the majority of feature film distribution is facilitated via FTP. It’s quickly becoming more rare now for a theatre let alone the studio, to deal with actual celluloid film. So Netflix is definitely a proof of concept and will last as they continue to innovate,” said Hansen.

Blockbuster hasn’t vanished off the earth yet and could possibly make a comeback if they convert over to the online watch immediately side. Until then, Netflilx remains the top dog in video “renting.”

 

 

Legacy of radical environmental activist and author is showcased in exhibit

Posted on by

by Ryly Larrinaga

SALT LAKE CITY –  “He didn’t need anyone to talk for him alive and he still doesn’t being 22 years dead,” said local rare book dealer Ken Sanders.

Nearly two decades after author and radical environmentalist Edward Abbey’s death in 1989 at the age of 62, Sanders is finally able to speak of the man he knew and his work that has spurred such a drastic movement in environmental crusades.

Before the opening exhibit containing Abbey memorabilia at the J. Willard Marriot Library on Sunday, about 150 attendees listened as Sanders gave his lecture, “R. Crumb meets the Monkey Wrench Gang: Edward Abbey and the Modern Environmental Movement, from EarthFirst! to Tim DeChristpoher.”

“I hope to bring a taste and flavor for what Abbey was all about,” said Sanders of his lecture that showcased footage of Abbey during his life.

Abbey, whose writing became a crusade surrounding the destruction of the environment, considered himself an entertainer and expressed that his main goal was to just write good books, according to Sanders.

Abbey’s writings are filled with themes of anarchy and rebellion, much like in his prominent novel, “The Monkey Wrench Gang,” that centers on activists who plan to sabotage the destruction of the Glen Canyon Dam. “The Monkey Wrench Gang” is cited as being a major inspiration to several radical environmental groups such as the creation of EarthFirst!.

“People need to do more. We need more people standing up and saying the emperor has no clothes,” said Sanders.

Sanders, said that Abbey’s view on environmentalism will just not cut it these days, emphasized that issues have become more frightening, which require a modern, stronger approach in order to create change.

“The new generation of people coming of age now, they’ve inherited the planet that we’ve messed up. It’s up to them to do something about it,” Sanders said in relevance to Tim DeChristopher.

DeChristopher, who falsely bid on oil and gas leases at a 2008 Bureau of Land Management auction, was convicted last July to two years in prison.

However, Abbey’s work was just not an attempt to stop the destruction of the environment through crusades of chaotic events like in “The Monkey Wrench Gang.” Several of Abbey’s writings were themed around the relationship between man and nature.

In his 1968 novel, “Desert Solitaire,” Abbey uses sharp and poetic descriptions to bring the reader close to the natural beauty of the desert without actually being there.

‘Desert Solitaire,” has since gone on to become one of Abbey’s most noted publications. However, as Sanders described, Abbey was not fond of how popular the novel became. Abbey refusing to allow excerpts to be reprinted from the novel for over three years, Sanders said that Abbey became upset when requests for “Desert Solitaire” became overwhelming.

Abbey successfully attempted to intensify the anger of moral people who share similar beliefs on the importance of preserving the environment. Saying that Abbey had a unique way of incorporating the reader with his writing, whether that is through mesmerizing or infuriating the reader, Sanders believes that the legacy of Abbey will continue to be carried on through those who become involved with reading Abbey’s writings.

Having known Abbey, this lecture and exhibit was monumental for Edward Leuders, who hired Abbey to be the first writer for the creative writing department at the University of Mexico.

“This collection of Abbey material is a blessing. Abbey’s work was so influential that this collection of material the university has accumulated is unparallel,” Leuders said of the collection.

The exhibit showcases 174 items including Abbey’s handwritten notes, manuscripts, signed publications of Abbey’s books and various articles written by and about Abbey.

Eric Hvolboll, a recently retired attorney from Santa Barbara, Calif., donated the large collection to the Marriot Library in 2008. Included in the collection are first-edition signed publications and several original Abbey proofs that Hvolboll has gathered over a period of 30 years.

The exhibit, “Brave Cowboy: An Edward Abbey Retrospective,” is free and open to the public until April 27 on the fourth floor of the J. Willard Marriot Library.

The new role of college students

Posted on by

Why they may be the answer to many of the world’s problems

By Rebekah-Anne Gebler

SALT LAKE CITY—“The Story of Stuff” video was created by one person, Annie Leonard, and a small team of co-workers in 2007.

Almost five years and more than 15 million views later, that video “is one of the most watched environmental-themed online movies of all time,” according to the organization’s website, http://www.storyofstuff.com. With its easy-to-follow cartoons and understandable lingo, this is understandable.

Leonard’s efforts were extensive but those by college students don’t need to be.

Why college students’ actions are so integral to helping the planet was the topic of discussion at a lecture conducted by library accountant Carrie Brooks on February 29. The discussion was about a different video by Leonard called “The Story of Broke” and was part of the Green Bag Lunch Series held at the University of Utah’s Marriott Library.

“The Story of Broke” talked about where the majority of the money in the economy is going versus where it could be going.

Leonard said that instead of spending money on fixing problems, that money should be spent on preventing them.

The prime models for this need of priority changes are college students. Many are pressured daily as to where—and on what—they will spend their money.

“It’s just frustrating…There’s money to do it. It’s just a change of priorities,” said attendee David Maxfield, a senior library specialist.

Maxfield refers to the struggle that college students face daily. With consistently new technology from iPads to crackle nail polish, college students are enticed into spending money on things they want while the economy is begging for that money to be spent on preventing problems.

That’s why Brooks said that education is the main focus of lectures like the Green Bag Lunch Series.

“So many people have no idea why or what or how these things happen,” said Brooks, referring to today’s economic problems.

College students are also the influencers in this plan as well. Many students are at a point in their lives where they have to make their own decisions for the first time.

According to the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics, 30.4 million 18- to 24-year-olds were enrolled in a 2- or 4-year college or university as of 2009.

Even if only 10 percent of those students were living outside of their parents’ home, that is still more than 3 million people who are flying solo in making their own decisions since leaving the nest.

The University of Utah’s Marriott Library recognizes that so many students are at a crossroad with their decisions. They act as the center and the source of sustainability for the campus, said Brooks.

Efforts like “The Paper Project”—a campus-wide recycle effort—and “Just Fill It!” –a water bottle-filling station project—were both started at the Marriott Library and were funded by Sustainable Campus Initiative Fund (or SCIF) Grants to aid students in their sustainability efforts.

The faculty and students involved in the campus’ sustainability efforts have created simple ways to help change many students’ habits.

Students can find resources on simple changes they can make in their lives, what the U. is doing to “Go Green,” and even give suggestions for new ideas to further these efforts on the “Greening the Marriott Library” webpage at http://www.lib.utah.edu/info/green/.

College students may feel pressured by the many different options of where to spend their time and money, but through simple actions, they can be the solution for tomorrow’s problems.

Headline goes here

Posted on by

by Your Name

Write a news or feature story on a topic of your choice.

Possible story ideas:

• Cover a sports event. Write about it and quote a coach, a player and a fan.

• Cover a presentation. Indicate what the person said, quote from the speech, provide context based on your research and quote two people who attended.

• Profile an interesting person. Why is this person interesting? Quote the person and tell her/his life story. Quote friends, family, coworkers, etc.

• Write about a person or family coping with the recession.

• Review an arts event. Describe it, quote the artist and quote two other people.

How to do it:

1) Lede. It may be straightforward or creative, anecdotal or summary, but the tone and focus must be appropriate to your topic.

2) Body of your story. You must include:

• Background. Explain the topic to a general audience. What led to the events your story describes? Provide names, events, dates, details.

• Nut graf. So what? Why is this news? Why should your audience care?

• A news peg. This can be a recent development, a connection to current events or a new discovery about an old topic.

• Quotes! You must interview and quote three people.

• Appropriate organization and transitions. Don’t just throw paragraphs together—write for flow.

Birth Control ranks lowest among voters concerns.

Posted on by

According to USA Today/Gallup poll, Americans are less concerned with government policies concerning birth control than any other issue discussed in this year’s presidential election campaign.

Only 20 percent of registered voters voted birth control as an extremely important national issue. Other concerns, such as international issues, were voted at least a 36 percent on the national issues list.

Some Americans feel that birth control should not be a national issue at all and should not even be mentioned.

“I don’t agree that birth control should be a national issue, it should be personal,” said Hilda Bravo, University of Utah academic program specialist. “I think that I would just rather they don’t talk about it.”

Where most Americans agree with Bravo, there are a few that believe that the government policies behind birth control are to be concerned with.

“I can see why most people would rank birth control as the least of national concern but what they aren’t looking at are the government policies behind birth control,” said Karen Klc, University of Utah secretary. “I still would not rank it the top concern but I definitely would not rank it the lowest.”

University of Utah student, Steve Richardson agreed with both Klc and Bravo concerning the birth control issue. He believes that birth control is an important issue to be concerned with. However, he also believes that there are other national issues such as healthcare and gas prices that require more attention.