MONTANA KAIMIN Calls for Change - An ASUM election guide - Townnews
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
MONTANA KAIMIN
Calls for Change
An ASUM election guide
4 Kyiyo Pow Wow returns 12 Hell’s hamster 15 Poultry power
Cover photo by Ridley Hudson April 21, 2022 | Volume 124 | Issue No. 27
Kiosk FI ND U S ON SOC I A L M E D I A Kaimin Editorial
The Montana Kaimin is a weekly independent student
newspaper at the University of Montana. The Kaimin office
and the University of Montana are located on land originally
inhabited by the Salish People. Kaimin is a derivative of a Salish
language word, “Qe‘ymin,” that is pronounced kay-MEEN and
means “book,” “message” or “paper that brings news.”
@Montanakaimin
@Montanakaimin
For comments, corrections or letters to
the editor, contact
editor@montanakaimin.com
or call (406) 243-4310.
Passover vigil If ASUM wants change, it should
start from the ground up
The Associated Students of the University Bobcats elect senators who come from each
@Montanakaiminsports of Montana has an engagement problem. As of the colleges on campus — larger schools, like
E D I TO R IAL STA FF NEWSROOM STA FF For advertising opportunities, contact we barrel to the end of another election cycle, the College of Letters and Sciences, currently
@Montanakaimin ads@montanakaimin.com that long-standing challenge for our student have five seats, while smaller ones like Agricul-
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF NEWS REPORTERS DESIGNERS or call (406) 243-6541. government has never been clearer. ture and Nursing have one.
Addie Slanger Christine Compton McKenna Johnson @Kaiminsports At a recent candidate forum hosted by UM’s While Montana State’s voter turnout is still
Susie Hawthorne Mariah Karis student government — designed to give ASUM as bad as UM’s, changing to a proportional rep-
BUSINESS MANAGER Chloe Olsgaard senate hopefuls a chance to publicly answer resentation model would give ASUM a chance
Mariah Karis Matti Olson AUDIO REPORTER @Montanakaimin questions about their beliefs and policies — to diversify voices in the Student Senate,
Emily Tschetter Elinor Smith other senators and candidates made up the electing them from schools across campus,
SPORTS EDITOR
Jack Marshall SPORTS REPORTERS
Tye Brown
CARTOONIST
Walter Medcraft
CLASSIFIEDS vast majority of the small audience. Headlines
from the Student Senate this semester often
rather than predominantly the College of
Humanities and Sciences. There’d be a much
NEWS EDITOR Max Dupras Lemon Laundry StoneCreek Lodge focused on internal scandals and controver- higher chance a UM student knows someone
Griffen Smith Holly Malkowski OFFICE ASSISTANT Free laundry soap. Clean & comfortable. NOW HIRING @ StoneCreek Lodge, Missoula’s sies, from rushed resolutions nullified for in the senate, and senators would have a more
Asa Thomas Metcalfe Caden Fox Machines take debit/credit. Apple pay. Finest Hotel! Front Desk, Night Audit, House- violating open-meeting laws to the resignation specific constituency to represent and hold
ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR mylemonlaundry.com keeping. Fulltime, Parttime. Days, Evenings, of ASUM’s own vice president. them accountable.
Clarise Larson ARTS & CULTURE REPORTERS ADVISERS Overnights available. Flexible schedules, Now senators have approved a $10,000 Switching up the way student senators
Nancy Beston Jule Banville Relaxed environment, Competitive wages! Call audit of the organization to examine its racial are elected at UM isn’t a magic solution to
FEATURES EDITOR Alexander Carter Daniella Zalcman 406.541.3600 or Apply in person at 5145 Airway makeup and the fairness of its own policies af- ASUM’s engagement problem, but it would be
Mariah Thomas Haley Yarborough ter blowback from its response to UM business a chance to reduce our student government’s
Blvd. Missoula!
professor Clayton Looney’s racist messages. echo-chamber tendencies. The ASUM senate
MULTIMEDIA EDITOR MULTIMEDIA
Antonio Ibarra Maddison Crandall After all the turmoil, it seems ASUM has shouldn’t feel like an extracurricular for politi-
Ridley Hudson Week of 4/18/22 - 4/24/22 an appetite for change and an anti-racist spirit cal science students. It should be a representa-
DESIGN EDITOR Aston Kinsella that should be commended. But after reporting tive forum for all students to share and debate
MaKayla O’Neil Shanna Madison Nereyda Calero, a Missoula College nursing student, holds Marissa, the youngest of Calero’s three kids, in her on the tumultuous events of this semester, the ideas to improve UM.
Nate Sanchez lap during Easter vigil celebrations held at the Spirit of Christ Mission in Missoula on April 16. Worshippers of Kaimin believes audits and resolutions aren’t While ASUM should consider the new
DIGITAL EDITOR/COPY CHIEF the Blessed Trinity Catholic Community gathered last Saturday night as they welcomed Easter Sunday and enough. academic year as an opportunity for radical
Andrea Halland COPY EDITORS What ASUM needs is sweeping structural change, that’s not to say UM students should
Mazana Boerboom Greg Boyd Fine-Instruments celebrated the baptism and confirmation of Calero’s niece, Valeria. ANTONIO IBARRA | MONTANA KAIMIN
change to help it refocus on its core mission of take a backseat and watch the action from
AUDIO EDITOR Rebecca Bryan Cleaning person for home/business. 4 plus hours per month. Wages depending on experience.
serving students — and we have an idea. afar. The Kaimin’s final piece of advice is well-
Austin Amestoy Alicia McAlpine References required.
Last spring’s election saw a 13.4% voter worn, but no less relevant than any other year:
Call Laurie at (406) 531-0531 or e-mail your resume to laurieann.boyd@gregboyd.com.
turnout among UM students, according to Get out and vote.
SUDOKU Edited by Margie E. Burke Kaimin reporting. Ballot referenda — one of While drama over resolutions and resigna-
TH E G A RAGE : SE 2 EP 13
ASUM’s most powerful tools for making real tions sometimes dominates ASUM headlines,
Difficulty: Easy change on campus — require a turnout of at it’s still a body that controls your money.
HOW TO SOLVE: least 12% to be legitimate. One referendum on the ballot next week — a
6 7 Each row must contain the
numbers 1 to 9; each column must
Turnout in 2020 was 13%. In 2019, 13.5% of
students voted. At this point, even a turnout
$15–$30 fee that would be added to students’
registration bills to potentially provide free
4 5 3 7 9 contain the numbers 1 to 9; and
each set of 3 by 3 boxes must
of 20% would wildly buck a trend of abysmal
voter engagement at UM.
counseling at Curry Health Center to all
students.
contain the numbers 1 to 9.
8 6 1 If the vast majority of UM students don’t
care enough about their representation on
While the fee would still need to be ap-
proved by the Board of Regents if passed by
Answer to Previous Sudoku:
3 6 8 1 3 2 7 9 4 6 5
campus to show up to elections, it’s time to
consider how they’re being represented.
UM students, it’s a reminder that the students
you pick as your next president, vice pres-
According to ASUM’s current constitution, ident, business manager and senators will
9 8 3 5 7 2 5 3 6 4 1 9 8 which was last revised in January 2021, every
“constituency” of 500 students receives one
decide how and where your student fees are
distributed.
4 6 9 8 1 5 2 3 7
6 5 2 3 8 1 9 2 6 5 7 4
representative in the senate. Here’s the issue,
though — that “constituency” can be literally
If you’re a paying student, you’re a stake-
holder in this next election. And if you’re an
9 2 6 7 4 5 8 3 9 1 2 anyone on campus. Senators aren’t elected
to represent any specific group that shares a
ASUM candidate, you have a chance to change
the way student government works at UM for
9 5 2 1 4 7 3 8 6 place or identity on campus, they technically the better.
1 7 2 9 6 7 5 1 8 4 3 represent everyone.
To begin to fix this problem, ASUM should
It’s time to blow open the echo chamber and
change the way we elect our student represen-
4 1 4 8 6 3 2 7 5 9 work next year to change its form of represen-
tation ahead of the spring 2023 election. One
tatives.
Copyright 2022 by The Puzzle Syndicate 5 3 7 4 9 8 6 2 1 easy model up for grabs: The proportional
— Austin Amestoy, Audio Editor
system used by Montana State University’s Like it? Hate it? Let us know!
WALTER MEDCRAFT | MONTANA KAIMIN Student Senate. email us your opinions at editor@montanakaimin.com
2 April 21, 2022 montanakaimin.com montanakaimin.com April 21, 2022 3
Week of 4/18/22 - 4/24/22
News | Truman triumph The Weekly Crossword by Margie E. Burke Horoscope
Flora-scope
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
Briefs: Kyiyo Pow Wow returns, ‘Yellowstone’ Blotter 14 15 16
looking for extras, electric charging stations Blotter CHRISTINE COMPTON
17
20
23
21
18
24
22
19
christine.compton@umontana.edu
GRIFFEN SMITH weight, clothing size, contact info and their Fewer than 1% of all cars in the U.S. 25 26 27 28 29 30
city and state of residence. are electric, according to data published We’re at semester-long record lows, people.
griffen.smith@umontana.edu Between April 9 and 15, University of Montana 31 32 33
The series has generated $70 million in in 2022 by Reuters. While the production
spending to the state, according to a recent of new vehicles has slowed during the Police saw two — only two! — crimes. That’s not
34 35 36
KYIYO POW WOW RETURNING TO ADAMS study by the University of Montana Bureau pandemic, electric cars are expected to even enough to calculate the most common
CENTER of Business and Economic Research. The become 45% of all new cars manufac- offense! What am I supposed to write about these 37 38 39
production has created more than 500 per- tured in 2035, and predicted to be half of days, huh? Rest assured, the notable calls are here
for y’all. Be grateful, and be sure to stay safe from 40 41 42
One of the largest and oldest student-run manent jobs in the state, and employed more all cars on the road by 2050.
pow wows is coming back to UM’s campus than 600 Montana residents as extras. the wind. 43 44
after a two year COVID-19 hiatus, bringing For more information, visit extrascasting. FRISSELL WINS PRESTIGIOUS TRUMAN SATURDAY 4/9 - GONE WITH THE REVERB
dancers, singers and spectators from tribes wixsite.com/yellowstonemt5. SCHOLARSHIP Somewhere in the University Villages, people 45 46 47 48 49 50
across the nation and Montana. were blasting obnoxiously loud music from their 51 52 53
The pow wow, a cultural cornerstone of ELECTRIC CHARGING STATIONS ON CAMPUS The premier scholarship for graduat- car — enough for someone to call 911 on them.
UM, will feature drum and dance perfor- ing college students interested in public The glares peeking from the windows must have 54 55 56
mances, a basketball tournament and a feast. The University of Montana recently joined service is one of the most exclusive lists sent the party-rockers a message, because the car
57 58 59
This year’s title, “Every Child Matters,” is to the growing electric movement after install- in the nation, and it includes one of UM’s was gone by the time officers arrived. Listen, we
bring awareness to residential Native Amer- ing four car charging stations this semester. student-athletes. love Doja Cat as much as the next newspaper, but Copyright 2022 by The Puzzle Syndicate
ican boarding schools that assimilated and The level II, dual-port ChargePoint electric Beatrix Frissell, a junior double major- don’t be surprised if we’re not jiving along at 3:30 ACROSS
abused Indigenous children. vehicle stations are all separately located ing in political science and environmental a.m. Go study for your finals or something. 1 Like new dollar 58 Checked out 26 Elevator passage
Cailei Cummins, an anthropology major at the parking garage, near the University bills 59 Derby prize 27 Get around
studies from Polson, Montana, made the MONDAY 4/11 - STOP THIS
and member of the Crow tribe, will be the Center, next to the Fitness and Recreation 6 Mellows, maybe 28 Home to the
list of 58 winners out of more than 700 You felt the wind. I felt the wind. I watched
head woman dancer. Shawn White Grass Center and on the south-side of campus in 10 Finds a sum DOWN Louvre
applicants nationwide. She is the first someone’s dog nearly fly into oncoming traffic on
will be the head men’s dancer. The late Earl Lot E. 14 Sport featured in 1 Type of cake 29 "The Prince of MCKENNA JOHNSON | MONTANA KAIMIN
person from UM to win a Truman schol- Arthur Avenue. None of us can be surprised that "8 Seconds" 2 Bench wear Tides" star ADDIE SLANGER
Old Person, who was the longtime chief for Eva Rocke, UM’s sustainability director, arship since Mara Menahan won in 2014.
the Blackfeet Nation and leader for Indige- said demand has already picked up at the a gust-blown sign shattered a car’s back window. 15 Aria singer 3 "I had no ___!" 30 Like Gatsby addie.slanger@umontana.edu
The Truman scholarship provides That’s right, a temporary construction sign flew
nous people nationwide, will be the memori- stations as electric cars become more com- 16 Diner offering 4 "Mystic River" 32 Pool measure LIBRA (SEP. 23–OCT. 22): Cherry blossom! As the weeb
funding for graduate school, leadership off its frame and pierced through a window in Lot 17 At right angles actor 35 Prison term ApRiL sHoWeRs bRiNg mAy fLoWeRs! At least, of the Zodiac, we had to give you Japan’s most beauti-
al honorary master of ceremony. mon in the United States.
training, career counseling, special P around 1:30 p.m. Miraculously, the car’s body to the keel 5 With "Beach," a 36 Musical that’s what we’ve been telling ourselves to get through ful springtime trait. It fits your color scheme and vibe,
This year’s festival was supposed to “Over the next few years, our goal is to
internships and fellowships in the federal was spared. Yet another parking injustice. 18 Come to pass Florida city composition the last few weeks of bullshit weather. But hey, at
include a $15,000 grant from UM for the add more stations to campus, including in too, which is just a perk.
government. 20 Thin fellow 6 "Rolling In the 38 Feel least we get some resistance training walking on
Chief Old Person endowment, meant to fund our facilities compound and at the residence TUESDAY 4/12 - CHOP AND DROP campus with 40 mph winds. If Jeannette Rankin Hall
SCORPIO (OCT. 23–NOV. 21): You’re a prick. Shit, sorry,
the Kyiyo Pow Wow in perpetuity. Report- Frissell has an extensive list of service 22 ____ Age (late Deep" singer 39 Crafter's supply we mean cactus. You may have a hard outer shell —
halls,” Rocke said in a press release. “This Someone cut a faculty member’s ID card in isn’t going down, we aren’t either. Anyway, when the
ing from the Kaimin found the University grant is a game-changer for us as we become experience, from working in the Depart- 1800's in U.S.) 7 ____ and take 41 Social activities but inside you have thirst-quenching, enriching cac-
half sometime over the weekend in Eck Hall. The flowers do eventually come, obviously you’ll want to
failed in getting the scholarship to Kyiyo this one of the only college campuses in the ment of Interior last summer to partici- 23 White as a sheet 8 Genesis name 42 Preserve, in a tus juice for all the desert creatures. This metaphor is
faculty member dealt with people’s grades, so it’s know what the stars have to say. We asked them so
spring. region to install high-quality EV charging sta- pating in UM’s first Safe, Empowered and 24 Piano man? 9 Hopeful way falling apart, but you sure aren’t.
possible someone came in and got a little revenge you don’t have to.
Accelerated Change Cohort to advance 25 Rise up 10 Lucky charm 44 Tested the SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22–DEC. 22): You are quirky and
The 53rd Kyiyo Pow Wow will kick off at tions. Hopefully adding a few more stations for a docked assignment. That being said, we’ll TAURUS (APRIL 20–MAY 20): You’re an orchid: elegant,
7 p.m. April 22 in the Adams Center. The gender equity and combat stereotypes. 28 Indicating 11 Spitting image waters unique, but not TOO quirky. That’s why you’re a
to those that already exist in Missoula will never know — UMPD has no suspects or leads. desirable and suuuuuuper vanilla. No, get it, because
Frissell is also a member of UM’s Cross 31 Horned mammal 12 Romantic night 45 Tomato variety sunflower! Everyone loves you, but also it’s like … get
two-day event will resume April 23 at noon. make it that much easier to own and drive orchids produce the vanilla bean? But even if your
Tickets run between $5 for a session and an EV.” Country and Track and Field teams. WEDNESDAY 4/13 - ASSUMED GTA 32 Glover of out 46 Majestic proclivities aren’t super *out there,* you, like our the fuck out of the way with your insect swarms and
This fellow saw his car missing from its usual Hollywood 13 Musher's 47 Allocate dear orchid, are a natural aphrodisiac to anyone who prickly stem, you know?
$12 for a weekend pass. Children under 6
spot near Lot H and came to the natural conclu- 33 Neither partner transport 48 Coffee cups comes across your path. Xoxo, Kaimin. CAPRICORN (DEC. 23–JAN. 19): You’re that one flower
and those older than 65 get in for free.
sion: His car had been stolen. That is, until he saw 34 Make, as money 19 Metallic-sounding 49 Advil target GEMINI (MAY 21–JUNE 20): You’re that one type of that smells like rotting meat to attract scavenging
To read a complete preview story, visit
his car a little ways down the street. Maybe some- 35 Suit cloth 21 ___ Glory (U.S. 50 New Jersey berry that looks like a huckleberry to a nonlocal, but bugs. Just like how you are ready to lure in the *pol-
montanakaimin.com.
one stole it and returned it? It wouldn’t be the 36 Leer at flag) hoopsters in reality, you taste like actual hamster piss. But hey, linators* with your Axe body spray at Power Hour.
strangest thing to happen on campus. Alas, there 37 Texans' org. 24 Neighbor of Fiji 52 Costner film, that’s the way God intended you to be. Blessed be the
‘YELLOWSTONE’ TV SHOW LOOKING FOR 38 Old photo color 25 Environs "Draft ___"
King shit.
were no benevolent thieves involved here. Rather, fruit. AQUARIUS (JAN. 20–FEB. 18): You are so soft and mis-
EXTRAS
this fellow’s car was towed free-of-charge by the 39 Environmental CANCER (JUNE 21–JULY 22): Sitting softly at the pond’s understood. A tortured artist, just like the bluebell.
activist Thunberg Answers to Previous Crossword:
street cleaning crew to help sweep the leaves. edge, being carried by the lapping waves, the water No one else knows why you’re writing poetry on the
After four seasons of mafia-boss cowboys 40 Campus group I D O I M P R E P EP R K lily’s life resembles the last shroom-induced dream
and scenic Montana views, the Paramount THURSDAY 4/14 - ILL CONCERN 42 Dry red wine N O M R A L E N S VO E N you had. You were a little frog wearing a top hat and
bench of Badlander at 2 a.m., but it’s because they
Network series “Yellowstone” is returning to Around 1 a.m., a resident assistant called couldn’t understand even if they wanted to.
43 Calendar page C L N I T A N D Y AT P E bowtie, sitting on a lilypad. This is close enough.
film in western Montana this summer, and is UMPD for a Craig resident who possibly had 44 Hang around H E I S T A T E C H NA E L LEO (JULY 23–AUG. 22): Every rose has its thorns, and PISCES (FEB. 19–MARCH 20): Toadstool. You give us
in need of extras. alcohol poisoning. The resident showed all the baby you have a few to spare. You’re the belle of da the vibes of a forest witch who harvests all her own
45 Hone, as a draft B E L O W T H E EB L T
Positions for Kevin Costner’s TV show typical signs of intoxication — slurred speech, lack ball, cream of the crop, apple of my eye, etc. A time- spell ingredients. Or that one neighbor who’s always
47 Like a father-son A B S U R D H E E SL
will run from May to December in Darby, of coordination, bleary reactions — but officers less classic so perfect and juicy and plump … wait, on acid sitting out on his front porch staring at the
talk, maybe B R A S S E R I E D CE A L
Hamilton and Missoula. Extras are paid, and determined he didn’t need to be taken to the 51 Like some E O N R O O M S E S E sorry that’s for a different horoscope. We love you sky. Either way, it fits.
must be 9 or older. hospital. Because the RA called for the resident, questions T W I S T P N E U M O N I A almost as much as you love you! Xoxo!! ARIES (MARCH 21–APRIL 19): You love to cause havoc
Interested applicants should apply via he didn’t get to enjoy medical amnesty, so he took 53 Peaceful pause T A U P E S U N T A N VIRGO (AUG. 23–SEP. 22): You are a dahlia, and we’re at any degree. That’s why you, as a pine cone, hold on
email to yellowstoneextrasmontana@gmail. home a conduct referral on top of his soon-to-be 54 Chinese dynasty S T A I N E D G L A S S not saying that just because of your true crime obses- to mama pine tree as long as possible until someone’s
com. Organizers asked submissions include raging hangover. Waking up the next morning is 55 Blanchett of T I T L E D L U N K H E A D sion. With perfectly symmetrical, bulbous petals, this grandma walks by and then WHAM! She gone. Rip
two individual headshots, the actor’s height, going to suck for all sorts of reasons. "Don't Look Up" O L I O A L A N R O D E O
flower soothes even your OCD. Live, laugh, love. grandma.
56 Skater's figure O D O R L I Z A A R G O T
4 April 21, 2022 montanakaimin.com 57 "Hamlet" has five P E N S S E E R T E E N S montanakaimin.com April 21, 2022 5
Calls for Change
PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT CANDIDATES
Kipp, Courtney highlight their differences to bring a new perspective to
ASUM leadership
SUSIE HAWTHORNE
susie.hawthorne@umontana.edu
An ASUM election preview Stormee Kipp and Aiden Courtney share
a love for their hometown of Missoula,
Montana, but that might be the only thing
they have in common.
Kipp, a member of the Shoshone-Ban-
nock and Blackfeet Tribes, said he’s a natu-
ral politician with contagious charisma
and engaging answers. Courtney attested
he brings logic, fairness and consider-
ation to every decision. The duo hopes to
use their distinct differences to serve the
University of Montana’s student body as
the next president and vice president of
the Associated Students of the University
of Montana.
Kipp, the candidate for president, is a se-
nior studying history. Missoula has always
been his home. He grew up raising horses,
playing chess and running long distances
on nearly every trail in town.
“Missoula is a lot of things and we as
students impact that,” Kipp said. “I think
the most important thing for the Universi-
ty is having a good time and enjoying our
college experience.”
Kipp is a people person. He admits that
he will not have all the answers if elected,
but plans to depend on strong teamwork
to make the best decisions for the student
body.
Vote Here
“The president doesn’t know everything.
It would be shameful if I said I knew
everything,” Kipp said. “I have to ask other
people to help because the best progress
is made through communicating with
others.” Candidates Stormee Kipp, left, and Aidan Courtney are vying to be the next president and vice president of ASUM. The duo will be running for the executive positions
Courtney, the candidate for vice pres- against candidates Elizabeth Bowles-Alexandra Berna and Noah Vanderkar-Jack Kuney. RIDLEY HUDSON | MONTANA KAIMIN
MAKAYLA O’NEIL | MONTANA KAIMIN ident, is a graduate student chasing his
T
teaching degree. He developed a strong there is a fair and neutral way to [make said. “Native Americans or people of color more student housing on campus. I feel
HE UPCOMING Associated With the first primary election since 2018, on these issues. senators vying for seats and the sole refer- work ethic from a young age and manag- decisions].” on campus are underrepresented in ASUM like we should focus on how to house more
Students of the University and the most senators filing to run since This election cycle hasn’t been without endum on the ballot this year. es his time between a job in the UM IT Despite best intentions if elected, chinks and when I win, I think that I will repre- students on campus. One more aspect that
of Montana election comes before the pandemic, the election looks to controversy either. Noah Vanderkar and You can vote in this year’s ASUM elec- department, classes and additional extra- in the Kipp and Courtney armour have sent something much bigger than just a I would like to focus on [would be] collab-
with a number of candidates be a competitive one. Jack Kuney, one of this year’s executive tion on the UMontana app. Polls open for curricular activities, including Grizzlies already appeared. The pair nearly missed president, because other students around orating to provide better cyber security
campaigning for change, after And it comes after an eventful — and teams, had a grievance filed against them the general election at midnight on April for Liberty and the Outdoor Recreation the deadline to register for ASUM election the state or country will see that we have training for students.”
a year where candidates claim the senate’s controversial — year for ASUM. during the first week of campaigning for 27 and close at 8:00 p.m. on April 28. program. after a spur-of-the-moment decision to an- diversity amongst our student body presi- But Kipp and Courtney do agree that an
bureaucracy got in the way of taking Earlier in the semester, former Vice making their Instagram pulic moments Courtney finds solace in the details. His nounce their campaign. Due to the quick dent and that will show that this campus is outside perspective would be helpful for
action. President Canyon Lock resigned after call- before campaigning officially began. The Kaimin’s print schedule did not previous role working for the Missoula decision to run, the Kipp and Courtney more diverse, and that is something we are ASUM leadership. Neither of them has
The ASUM senate has passed more ing a special session to pass a resolution And senators have been endorsing their allow for including results of the primary County Elections and his undergraduate campaign has struggled to establish clear really lacking.” served on ASUM, and they hope to use
than 100 resolutions during the past two condemning Clayton Looney — a UM pro- picks for the executive team on a number election.This primary will eliminate one degree in political science will play a role campaign platforms. Courtney, on the other hand, mentioned their fresh eyes to better lead ASUM.
semesters that aim to help students — from fessor who used the n-word in texts and on of social media accounts for the last week. set of presidential and vice presidential As an Indigenous student, Kipp recog- that the largest platforms for the campaign “From what I have seen, some of the oth-
in how he approaches the vice presidency.
advocating for better conditions for UM’s video. Lock was spurred on by a group of The Kaimin caught up with all three ex- candidates. For more coverage, visit mon- nized the need for diversity in ASUM and focus on the lack of housing and inefficient er candidates have been involved in ASUM
“From my research of ASUM and vice
resident assistants to calling for the resig- students upset with ASUM’s slow-moving ecutive teams and both business manager tanakaimin.com. presidential duties, it is more about the hopes his election will set the tone for cyber security training for students. for quite some time. It’s always good to get
nations of two professors on campus. bureaucracy. A number of senators since candidates to discuss their vision for next
managerial level, heading government a more inclusive, equitable and positive “Housing is a large issue for students fresh blood in the system to get rid of any
As the semester winds down to a close, have called for changes to the senate’s year’s student government. Along with
level,” Courtney said. “From my previous University. here,” Courtney said. “One thing I haven’t blinders that might be there,” Courtney
the election cycle has begun heating up. bylaws to ensure it can take action faster these profiles, the Kaimin previewed some
~ Mariah Thomas, Features Editor experience, I think it is important that “Our main platform is diversity,” Kipp seen much of is talking about building said.
6 April 21, 2022 montanakaimin.com montanakaimin.com April 21, 2022 7
PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT CANDIDATES
Vanderkar, Kuney look to increase student government engagement, Bowles, Berna look to loop in student groups, make adjustments on
establish civil bench faculty bargaining agreement
TYE BROWN Vanderkar became the first
GRIFFEN SMITH mittees.
tye.brown@umontana.edu student to serve in the organi-
griffen.smith@umontana.edu Bowles said while
zation’s freshman-designated
Noah Vanderkar and Jack Kuney hope there is good engage-
senate seat.
to bring a fresh perspective to ASUM’s Two long-time members of ASUM are ment in the senate,
Vanderkar resigned from
executive office by focusing their platform vying for president and vice president, ASUM still needs to do
his senate position at the
on outreach to the campus community and running on the platform of getting more better reaching out to
beginning of the school year.
lobbying the Missoula City Council, the student voices into administration deci- student groups around
“Consistently, it just felt like
Montana University System and the Mon- sions and making a strong UM presence at campus. Many of the
echoing previous sentiments
tana State Legislature for more support of the Montana State Legislature. senate’s engagement
and a lack of progressiveness
student government. to get things done and actual- Elizabeth Bowles, a political science tactics, like inviting
Vanderkar, the presidential candidate, ly change the way that we do major, is running for president after students to meetings,
criticized what he believes to be the things,” he said of his reason serving in ASUM senate for two and a half were halted by the
general student body’s view of ASUM on for stepping down. “Clearly, years — the longest of any current senator. COVID-19 pandemic.
campus. He said many remain unengaged students are frustrated with Alexandra Berna, a biology and microbi- “We used to invite
in student government because of its per- the organization. I myself am ology major, is running for vice president student groups in,
ceived elitism. This is a status quo, he said, frustrated with the organiza- after working as ASUM’s secretary for two and they would come
that doesn’t serve ASUM or University of tion.” years. She also recently joined the cham- in and show us what
Montana students. Kuney is currently a mem- ber as a student-at-large. they’re all about,”
“We want to remove the stigma of a kind ber of the senate. The duo said their number one goal is Bowles said. “Then we
of elitist or overly professional atmosphere Vanderkar had a role in to get more students involved in ASUM, got to see and interact
regarding ASUM,” Vanderkar said. “We the 2021 ASUM election as listing ideas like a more diverse senate with students that
can only change that by fostering a better campaign manager for current makeup, better relationships with clubs we were funding and
sense of community that focuses not only president Noah Durnell and on campus or more financial support for should be interacting
on professionalism, but on fun and engage- former Vice President Canyon those struggling to make ends meet. with.”
ment as well.” Lock. The Durnell-Lock “We should be giving students what Part of being more
Kuney, who’s running for vice presi- campaign came under fire they need in order to succeed here,” inclusive comes
dent, said the pair’s campaign style has for breaking ASUM bylaws Bowles said, noting that the pandemic has from working on the
been “boots on the ground.” The pair have regarding third-party endorse- exacerbated problems like finding housing University’s Diversity,
posted flyers advertising their candidacy ments of candidates. and well-paying jobs in Missoula. Equity and Inclusion
in nearly every building on campus, and An Instagram account The ASUM president is considered the Plan, which ASUM
they spend their time out of class having run by Vanderkar, @umon- liaison between students and campus ad- is a stakeholder of,
face-to-face interactions with prospective tana2024, posted in support of ministrators. The president also organizes Berna said. She ac-
voters, according to Vanderkar. the Durnell-Lock ticket, and the senate chamber and its committees. knowledged ASUM is
Candidates Noah Vanderkar, right, and Jack Kuney have been friends and roommates since their freshman year at UM. Now they Candidates Elizabeth Bowles, right, and Alexandra Berna are running to be the next ASUM president and vice president for the upcoming
The duo’s personal style reflects the a grievance was brought to are running for the ASUM executive positions of president and vice president. Vanderkar and Kuney will face off against fellow When an overarching opinion is needed predominantly white,
“men of the people” image they want to on a resolution, it is often the president which Berna partial- 2022-2023 school year. Berna currently serves as the ASUM secretary and Bowles serves on the senate. The pair are running on elevating and
the senate. Vanderkar argued candidates Elizabeth Bowles-Alexandra Berna and Stormee Kipp-Aiden Courtney in the upcoming ASUM elections.
who takes initiative. ly attributed to the incorporating student voices into University administration level decisions and increasing UM’s presence at the Montana State Legislature.
cultivate. Instead of blazers and slacks, the the account was not directly MADDIE CRANDALL | MONTANA KAIMIN
The vice president operates as the fact that senators are RIDLEY HUDSON |MONTANA KAIMIN
pair don hoodies and jeans as they canvas affiliated with UM and did not
UM’s campus. They design their campaign count as a third-party endorsement. followers. As a result of the mistake, the determine whether grievances have legiti- chair of the senate, running the meeting. volunteers. lective bargaining agreement document,” The duo made plans to survey the
posters by hand in the house they rent The Durnell-Lock ticket wasn’t punished ASUM senate voted to sanction the ticket mate basis in bylaw infractions before they The vice president also handles disputes Berna said some sort of incentive to Berna said. “We’re creating a working student body for issues to make into a
together. by the senate, but the elections chair and by deducting $35 dollars from their allot- are brought to the senate for discussion. between senators. work as a senator could bring in more group in ASUM that’s forming and doing guidebook for lobbyists, but have already
Vanderkar and Kuney, both juniors, Durnell’s opponent for president, Lyssa ted $350 campaign budget. Vanderkar and Kuney’s judicial panel Berna said she has a long history in students to be involved in ASUM. work over the summer and into the fall outlined a plan that advocates for a higher
have been roommates since their freshman Schei, stepped down in the wake of the Vanderkar said he believes the bylaws would consist of five judges appointed by mediating with others, especially as the “Whether that be monetary, whether to propose language for the collective Montana state minimum wage and rent
year. They said, if elected, their friendship situation. around campaigning are too restrictive either themselves or the ASUM senate. ASUM secretary and a learning assistant that be through credit at the University,” bargaining agreement.” price controls, according to policy plans
wouldn’t stand in the way of policy, and During their own campaign, Vanderk- and only create an unnecessary divide Vanderkar said many other student gov- at the College of Education. Berna said. “The people who can devote The faculty union renegotiated its from their campaign statements.
neither would politics strain their friend- ar and Kuney have also had grievances between those running for office and the ernments across the country have a similar “I like to make the joke that everybody time and energy to the body tend to be bargaining agreement in 2020, and will Both Bowles and Berna said they would
ship. brought against them. Just hours prior to students they want to reach. judicial structure. This system of checks tells the secretary everything, but it’s this whiter demographic, and that’s some- set new contract standards in 2025. While be a watchdog on UM administrators and
“I think our friendship is definitely the start of the 2022 campaign, a Vanderk- “If [campaign bylaws] were a little bit and balances, he said, helps ensure that true,” Berna said. “People come up to me thing that we want to shift.” ASUM recently established a working knock on doors to get more student policy
strong enough that it would be carried ar-Kuney Instagram profile was made pub- looser, it would allow for more freedom. unbiased judges provide a fair analysis of with their ideas for resolutions, and for The duo is also advocating for a student group to explore the options of how into action. They said their dedication to
over to the executive team,” Kuney said. lic by the team, which violated campaign It would allow for more people to get in- ASUM’s bylaws, separate from the politics legislation and things like that. And I’ve voice in restructuring the UM faculty students can be involved in the process, the student government, combined with
“We both have the capacity to call each bylaws since the race hadn’t officially volved in the elections process,” Vander- of the senate. always been interested in providing my union’s collective bargaining agreement. ASUM has never been a part of the bar- their vision, should make them the ideal
other out on our faults where it counts.” begun. kar said. “I also think that it would allow In future years, once the bench is estab- opinion and being able to support people.” This agreement sets the guidelines on gaining agreement. candidates.
Vanderkar, originally from California, The pair said that action was an acci- for us to be better about talking to more lished, Vanderkar and Kuney would like In the two years the duo has worked to- hiring, wages and grounds for faculty Bowles added she would like to prior- “It really comes down to who’s genuine
studies political science. Kuney, from dent that occurred while trying to finalize students.” these judges to be elected by the student gether in ASUM, they said communication discipline and firing. The deeper goal of itize work in the Montana Legislature, about the work that they want to do, who
Helena, majors in geoscience with a minor their profile to go public. Minutes after If elected, Vanderkar and Kuney seek body alongside senators and executives. and productivity has increased. Bureau- including students, according to the candi- which will reconvene in spring 2023. not only has the plans, but has the desire
in history. realizing the mistake, the profile was again to establish a civil bench modeled from “That’s how [campaigning] should be, it cracy aside, the chamber has passed more dates, is to have a say over the professors ASUM has previously sent students to and the dedication to actually go forward
The team is familiar with the inner made private, according to Vanderkar. MSU’s student government. It would serve should be fun and exciting and engaging than 100 resolutions in the 2021-2022 UM hires. lobby for UM, but much of that work was with them,” Berna said. “And that’s some-
workings of student government, having He said during the time the profile as a space to mediate grievances against and energetic,” Vanderkar said. “That’s school year, a feat Berna said comes from “With the racist professors on our consolidated between Montana universi- thing that Elizabeth and I have in leaps
both worked as ASUM senators. In 2020, was public, they did not receive any new executives and senators, with a goal to what we’ve pledged since the beginning.” efficiency in communication and subcom- campus, a lot of that goes back to the col- ties because of the COVID-19 pandemic. and bounds.”
8 April 21, 2022 montanakaimin.com montanakaimin.com April 21, 2022 9
BUSINESS MANAGER CANDIDATES REFERENDUM
Triple business major Jolly runs ‘with empathy’ Gudmundsson to bring new strategies if selected
CHRISTINE COMPTON CHRISTINE COMPTON
christine.compton@umontana.edu christine.compton@umontana.edu
On her way to three business-related
majors, UM sophomore Joselyn Jolly aims Armed with prior roles in planning and
to take on the powerful role of ASUM busi- policies, current ASUM senator and vice
ness manager: One of the most important chair of MontPIRG Tor Gudmundsson is
roles in student government. running to spend his last year at UM as
Originally from Kalispell, Montana, Jolly business manager.
has witnessed UM’s impact on the state Gudmundsson bounced from California
as a whole. She didn’t plan to be a senator across Montana universities in his pursuit
until two hours before the polls closed in of an English teaching degree before
2021. Her sudden write-in campaign came
landing in Missoula. He was appointed as
when she realized the candidates were too
an ASUM senator in spring 2021. After
one-sided and wouldn’t accurately repre-
watching a few meetings, he recognized a
sent the UM community.
“I don’t think our campus will ever tendency of the senate to “eat its own tail.”
100% agree politically, and I think a lot of “Sometimes the senate gets in its own
education can come from disagreements,” way, and I really wanted to get on to
Jolly said. “I’m uniquely qualified because I reinforce that this isn’t the kids table,”
tend to lean the opposite of the majority of Gudmundsson said. “There’s real power
the senate.” in student government, but it’s only true if
The business manager is the mon- the people in charge of it wield it respon-
ey-manager for ASUM, drawing up spend- sibly.”
ing plans, allocating money to student Joselyn Jolly, a UM business major, joined ASUM in As vice chair of the Montana Public
groups and extension agencies of ASUM 2021 as a senator with hopes to bring a perspective Interest Research Group, Gudmundsson is
like transportation and child care. The she didn’t feel was being represented at the student familiar with student groups and how they Tor Gudmundsson, who is working toward his teacher’s
business manager is also tasked with bal- government level. Now, Jolly hopes to shift her role license, is running for the ASUM business manager
work. While he wasn’t directly in charge
ancing ASUM’s budget each year. from senator to be ASUM’s next business manager. position in the upcoming elections. Gudmundsson is
MADDIE CRANDALL | MONTANA KAIMIN of MontPIRG’s finances, he paid close
Jolly said her three majors — market- currently the vice chair at MontPIRG but plans to step
attention to where and how the money down from the position in the near future so he can
ing, management and finance — would
was used. focus on the ASUM race and his teaching degree.
make her a benefit to the student body as I’d like to do more as a business manager,”
This, combined with his experience MADDIE CRANDALL | MONTANA KAIMIN
business manager. As an Advocate, vice Jolly said.
helping the Bitterroot Board of Trustees
president of UM’s chapter of the American She thinks this is especially important
Marketing Association and vice president through the Montana State Legislature want to say yes to that every time.”
when working with large student unions,
for the Network of Enlightened Women, such as the athletic union and the music in 2021, has taught him how to prioritize Gudmundsson believes in accessibil-
Jolly said she is no stranger to student union that each represent dozens of when resources are limited. ity for smaller groups, but still wants to
groups and their operations. student groups. Because they ask for large For Gudmundsson, budget decisions are maintain deadlines and policies. If a group
Jolly also meets every two weeks with dollar amounts, she wants to outline how a matter of morality and should be made in misses a deadline, he may not grant it
Paul Lasiter, UM’s vice president for oper- money can be spent in the most helpful line with ASUM’s values. Money should be money, but he said he wants to walk group
ations and finance. Through her conversa- ways. distributed among student groups depend- members through the financial process.
tions with Lasiter, Jolly has been exposed “The whole job of the business manager ing on impact, he said. Gudmundsson said some groups miss
to the complex inner workings of finance is to fund student groups, and we’re not in The current ASUM model grants money important steps simply because they don’t
on a broader level. If she were ASUM’s the business of denying student requests based on a percentage of a specific student have experience, and he doesn’t want
ASUM President Noah Durnell and Vice President Melissa Glueckert discuss senate budget matters at one of ASUM’s weekly Wednesday meetings at the University Center on April 6. RIDLEY HUDSON | MONTANA KAIMIN
Fee increase to support free counseling on ballot
business manager, she would provide that allow them to do what their club group budget, Gudmundsson said. One that to intimidate groups from asking for
ASUM with a direct line to faculty finance does,” Jolly said. “My top priority is fund- group requesting 30% of its budget may get money.
management. ing student groups and their requests, but several thousand dollars, while another Outside of his time at UM, Gudmunds-
Jolly encouraged one-on-one relation- also educating them on what accounts to group asking for the same percentage son spends time with his family in the
ships between the business manager and ask for money from so they can get more could get only $150. This works for many Bitterroot Valley and he expects to marry EMILY TSCHETTER
leaders of student organizations. While bang for their buck.” The fee would not hit registration bills in the director of Curry Health Jeffery Adams, to make students choose between their
situations, but Gudmundsson said there’s his fiance this summer. He’s enjoyed work- the fall semester. Instead, referendum author Hawthorne settled on the $15-30 fee range basic life functions. Mental health is just as
Jolly may not understand the nuances of Outside of UM, Jolly loves working with emily.tschetter@umontana.edu
room for newer strategies. ing with middle schoolers as part of his and senator Jorgia Hawthorne will present and the idea to add another counselor. Both important as physical health and I feel like
what the students want to do, she said she cars and the outdoors. She also cycles
can help clear the jargon and find alter- “I think there’s a great deal of merit in teaching degree, too. One referendum will appear on the the results as evidence of student support Hawthorne and Adams agreed that students sometimes we forget that.”
around Missoula.
native financial plans that benefit student Jolly stressed the importance of money funding the lowest dollar request of any More than anything, Gudmundsson ASUM ballot this semester. It aims for a $15- for the fee approval at the Montana Board of often struggle accessing mental health Hawthorne sees inaccessibility to mental
groups without hurting the budget. She in making progressive action. She said no given category,” Gudmundsson said. He compels his fellow students to vote for 30 opt-in fee on students’ bills in Cyberbear Regents in the fall. resources. As of now, Curry counseling costs health care as a Montana University Sys-
said managing with kindness is essential organization can reach its full potential explained that giving less money to large whomever they believe best fits their to make Curry Counseling sessions free, The Board of Regents would have to $25 per session. Curry does not accept Medi- tem-wide problem. She said she would see
for the job. without smart decisions — with both mon- groups means promoting small, niche interests — even if it’s just to support their while allocating funds to hire an additional approve the fee for it to be put on students’ care health insurance for any services. the fee’s enactment through if she’s re-elect-
“Having the ability to stand my ground ey and people’s hearts in mind. groups that make people happy. curious roommate or friend. counselor. bills. Then, a similar referendum would “Twenty-five dollars doesn’t seem like a ed to the senate. If re-elected, she wants to
for the half of students that think the way I “Yes, I have this extensive financial “I think we budgeted very fairly this “No matter who you choose to vote for In order for the referendum to pass, 12% appear in the spring 2023 ASUM election. lot, but when you’re on campus, that could expand mental health resources further by
do and vote the way I do, but also under- background and quite literally study fi- semester, but I don’t know that we thought or what you think the student interest is,” of enrolled students at the University must If it’s approved again, the fee could be set in go to counseling when you’re struggling, or encouraging department-specific resources,
standing and advocating for students that nance every day,” Jolly said. “But I can also vote in the election, and the majority must place for the fall 2023 semester. that’s half a tank of gas or a couple of days similar to the College of Business’s Student
about it in the most equitable fashion,” Gudmundsson said. “Find a compelling
disagree with me, is probably the biggest pair those financial qualifications with em- vote “yes” on the referendum. After talking with UM administration and of groceries,” Hawthorne said. “It’s not fair Success Center.
Gudmundsson said. “If [a small group] reason to vote for your own best interests,
thing I’ve done as a senator and something pathy, and that’s the best of both worlds.” wants to do a cool thing for only $120, I whatever those may be.” Extended coverage on the primary election results, Kaimin-hosted debate and senator candidates’ bios can be found online at montanakaimin.com. The Kaimin only included senators who filled out candidate questionaires.
10 April 21, 2022 montanakaimin.com montanakaimin.com April 21, 2022 11
Arts | It’s a horror show Arts | Print condition
Opinion: Looking for emotional support? Don’t get a hamster UM visiting artist links art to the history of Indigenous lands
HALEY YARBOROUGH HALEY YARBOROUGH
haley.yarborough@umontana.edu half the time, shitting. By the haley.yarborough@umontana.edu
time night comes around, it’s Folded in Corwin Clairmont’s wallet is a
I’m here to warn you of something truly like she’s on crack, making as miniature copy of the 1855 Treaty of Hellgate —
evil, dangerous and perhaps the very cause of many possible sounds as she a treaty that ceded a large number of Indige-
Earth’s sixth mass extinction: hamsters. can to drive me to the brink of nous territories to the United States govern-
Do not be fooled by their furry, marshmal- mental insanity. ment. When Clairmont, who is a member of
low exterior. Behind those beady eyes is a Third reason: They’re prone the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes,
devil in disguise, with extremely acidic piss, to health issues. returned to Montana from a Los Angeles art
flesh-piercing buck teeth and the acrobatic Right after I recovered Pea- institute in 1984, he wanted to re-immerse
abilities of a spider monkey. nut from my bathroom wall, I himself in tribal culture and thought the treaty
I know, it’s terrifying — especially when drove her to Animal Blessing was a good place to start.
the enemy is sleeping on your bedside table, Pet Hospital to treat her for So he copied it, shrunk it down, printed it
scheming her next escape (or next murder). A something the veterinarian and folded it up into the size of a credit card,
few months ago, I drove my hamster, Peanut, called a form of “wet tail.” I calling it his “gold card.” Now 74-year-old Clair-
all the way from California to Montana with won’t go into the nasty details, mont is linking the treaty to his artwork to tell
the intention of having some emotional sup- but Peanut basically had a par- the stories and history of the Salish, Kootenai
port during my rigorous spring semester. Let’s asite in her intestinal tract that and Kalispell people’s Indigenous lands.
just say, I don’t know how something so small affected her digestion. After “A lot of the time you don’t know the stories
can be such a big pain in the ass. the veterinarian performed of the land,” Clairmont said. “But art gives you
Their cuteness and likability as alleged pseudo-surgery, I paid $90 for a starting point as a reference to something, to
“starter pets” are all a farce. They are evil, antibiotics to treat the disease tell that story.”
conniving little bastards with a ledger full of and had to spend a full month This past week, Clairmont visited the
reasons why they do more harm than good. feeding her drugs out of a University of Montana to share his artwork
First reason: They’re cunning escape artists. syringe (she did not appreciate and knowledge with UM art students as part
In the short period of a few months, Peanut the effort). of MATRIX Press’ Visiting Artist Program. His
has escaped five times. The first time, she This, unfortunately, is work focused on random locations throughout
managed to crawl through a small hole at nothing unusual. “Wet tail” is Peanut, a 6-month-old hamster from California, roams around her cage at reporter Haley Yarborough’s Missoula, where Clairmont and four other
the top of her cage and spent the next four the most common illness in hamsters, followed apartment at ROAM Student Living in downtown Missoula on April 16. Peanut got her name from her members of the MATRIX press used trans-
days hiding in an inaccessible corner of my by other digestive disorders, continual incisor miniscule size when Yarborough first bought her. NATE SANCHEZ | MONTANA KAIMIN parent screens and markers to trace and draw
bathroom, screeching. I tried everything to get growth, pneumonia and skin problems. notable landmarks of specific locations. These
her out, from humane mouse traps to peanut With an adequate diet, housing and enough places included the Missoula County Court-
butter-covered carrots to long straws I used to exercise, a hamster is less likely to suffer from house, Bonner Park and sections of the Clark
poke her behind. these illnesses, but they are not exempt. Fork River.
Eventually, I was intelligent enough to call Hamsters are not starter pets. They take Printmaking artist Corwin Clairmont, 74, works from the fine art building on April 12, developing transparent layers of images and sketches of notable Missoula landmarks before
The end product was stencils of these land- transferring them onto photo silk screens for printing. Born in St. Ignatius and a member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, Clairmont was invited last week to work
maintenance, then they literally had to tear time and care — and sometimes a lot more marks transposed onto colorful paper. The art-
apart half of my bathroom cabinet to find her. money than you bargained for. with UM art students as part of MATRIX Press’s Visiting Artist Program. ANTONIO IBARRA | MONTANA KAIMIN
work included QR codes linked to a description
When she emerged, screeching, with matted Last but not least reason: They’re EVIL- of the locations, their history and documents
fur and a feral look in her eyes, one of the LLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL. about them. It also included the Treaty of world. He said he loved to see the way students said. “They’ve been printmaking, mixing
maintenance men — a tall, burly looking guy — There are evil people; then there are evil Hellgate and acknowledged that Missoula is on incorporated their different cultures into their colors and engaging in all these different ways,
told me he “ain’t picking it up.” hamsters. the Indigenous land of the Salish, Kootenai and art, just as he does with his screen prints and through all these different mediums.”
Even with a reinforced, duct-taped cage, When you look into a hamster’s beady, bot- Kalispell people. other mixed media. In addition to his prints based on locations
Peanut would escape four more times (one of tomless eyes, you’re looking through a window “All of these pieces are a part of our home- Now back at UM, he said he’s thankful to be in Missoula, Clairmont also produced what he
which was to the same place, where I had to into their nonexistent soul. Judging from the land,” Clairmont said. “This used to be an im- teaching again. Over the course of his five-day calls a “shadow image,” featuring silhouettes of
pry out a loosened board with my bare hands). way Peanut looks at me, I’m pretty sure she’s portant gathering for us. Right here on campus stay, Clairmont and art students created 10 four different figures: a bear, an eagle, a coyote
What pissed me off was not the escaping itself, plotting my murder. She is nothing short of was where we’d set up our teepees and harvest variations of 100 prints. Half of the prints will and half a human making a peace sign.
it’s that she has a better house than me and a bloodthirsty killer, who will bite my finger the Bitterroot. All of the configurations, the stay with Clairmont, and the rest will stay at Each figure represents a form of societal or
still has the AUDACITY to escape. without a second thought. landscapes, those are all tied into our stories.” the University with MATRIX, where some will cultural relevance. The coyote, for example,
Second reason: They’re nocturnal. The animals are so evil, in fact, you often Clairmont grew up on the Flathead reser- be donated to the Missoula Art Museum. is part of the Salish traditional seasonal cycle,
At least a few times a night, I wake up to can’t leave a male with a female alone in a vation, where he first fostered his love for art Founded by James Bailey, MATRIX has been where its stories are only told in the winter
the roar of Peanut running on her wheel. It’s cage without them fighting each other to death by drawing on the walls of his house at 3 years involved in UM’s art scene for more than 20 when snow is on the ground.
like a revving car engine next to my ear, and (or mating and eating their babies). old. He applied to the University of Montana in years. The organization brings in international While each figure tells a different story, all
no matter how loud I blast my soothing nature Oh, and also hamster piss is SUPER acidic the ’60s and graduated with his undergraduate and national artists, who are chosen based on fall under the same theme — the shadows of
sounds, the squeaky wheel is indelibly burned and fragrant. If left for just a week, it can cake, before attending San Fernando State University student recommendations, art style and budget. people and animals who lived on the land for
into my brain. Lately I’ve been gently removing stain, permeate and even erode plastic. I’m sur- and graduating from California State Universi- Bailey said he’s known Clairmont for a long thousands of years.
said squeaky wheel at night and putting her in prised there hasn’t been a horror movie about ty with a Master of Arts. time. He said MATRIX focuses on bringing “One significance of the shadow is it’s not re-
her ball during the evening. these murderous rodents pissing acid. Clairmont spent the next 14 years in the Indigenous artists from the region to visit the ally tangible; you can’t pick it up or touch it, but
My method doesn’t work. While hamsters Moral of this story: DON’T GET A FUCK- Los Angeles art scene and worked as the University. Hailing from Ronan, Montana, it’s still there,” Clairmont said. “It’s a reminder
can adapt to cage life and shift their natural ING HAMSTER, especially if you don’t want printmaking department head at what’s now Clairmont is a short car ride away and visits to me of all our past tribal people. You can’t see
life rhythms slightly, you can’t make them to get murdered in your sleep (but don’t worry, Otis College of Art and Design. As a teacher, the University frequently. them, but they’re here and have been here for
diurnal. The devil incarnate just sits in her ball the squeaky wheel will keep you vigilant). Clairmont met students from all across the “He’s been really great with students,” Bailey thousands of years.”
12 April 21, 2022 montanakaimin.com montanakaimin.com April 21, 2022 13
You can also read
