UD hosts spirited first OH gubernatorial debate - Flyer News
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NEWS
Students reflect on the death of Mollie Tibbets in the context of UD p. 4
A&E
Columnist explores different options for cheap nights out around Dayton p. 8
OPINIONS
Editor speaks on legacy of Mac Miller in the wake of his passing p. 12
SPORTS
Spotlight on Senior UD football safety David Leisring p. 16
TUESDAY,
TUESDAY,
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER 17,
25, 2017
2018
FLYER NEWS, VOL. 65 NO. 13 UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON
UD hosts spirited first OH gubernatorial debate City of Dayton to vote
on decriminalizing
marijuana
ANNA ROSE REDGATE
Contributing Writer
On Nov. 6, U.S. citizens will head
to the polls to cast their ballot
and express their opinions to be
voiced by a multitude of repre-
sentatives. In Dayton, residents
will use their voices on the bal-
lot to decide whether or not to
decriminalize possession of small
quantities of marijuana.
The Dayton City Commission
decided on Aug. 29 to put the
issue on the ballot after Dayton
Mayor Nan Whaley referred to
the war on drugs as a complete
failure. Whaley said criminalizing
the drug has not stopped its prev-
alence in the community and has
resulted in resources being allo-
cated to less pertinent issues.
Left. Richard Cordray (D) Right. Mike DeWine (R) Photos courtesy of Ty Greenlees/Staff Photographer for Cox Media Group
Currently in the state of Ohio,
SEAN NEWHOUSE AND EMMA KAPP possession of 100 grams or less
News Editor and Contributing Writer of marijuana is classified as a
UD hosted the first Ohio gubernatorial vice on how to handle the opioid crisis to Other questions included gun control, misdemeanor accompanied by
debate between Richard Cordray (D) and “trusting navigation to the captain of the abortion and marijuana legalization. DeW- a $150 fine. The misdemeanor
Attorney General Mike DeWine (R) Sept. Titanic.” ine said he was for putting mental health charges, as well as the fine, could
19 at its Daniel J. Curran Place at the River Political Science Professor Dr. Chris- officers in every school and for fixing cur- be waived if a majority of vot-
Campus. topher Devine was one of the individuals rent gaps in gun law enforcement. Cordray ers decide to decriminalize minor
Real Clear Politics has the contentious chosen to ask questions during the debate. supports universal background checks. marijuana violations. Possession
race at a close tie, declaring it a “toss up.” His colleagues, Drs. Nancy Miller and DeWine is pro-life; Cordray is pro- of larger quantities will still carry
Students got a chance to participate in Daniel Birdsong, said they did not want to choice. Cordray said Ohio voters should fines and charges.
the debate, including in its first question, be him tonight. decide if recreational marijuana becomes According to a Twitter poll
which was asked by Jim Otte of WHIO- “I would be really nervous about do- legal. DeWine firmly came out against rec- conducted on Aug. 30 by the
TV. He relayed a question from UD un- ing this,” Birdsong said. “I don’t envy that reational marijuana legalization. Medical Dayton Daily News, 71 percent
dergraduate Nicole Perkins about how the task.” marijuana is already legal in Ohio. of respondents believed Dayton
governor should handle the state’s opioid When asked if she was jealous, Miller In their opening and closing statements,
should eliminate fines and poten-
crisis. responded, “Not jealous of him at all.” respectively, Cordray and DeWine spoke
tially jail time for recreational pot
The opioid epidemic, specifically Issue Devine’s first question addressed stu- about different visions for their potential
possession. Another Twitter poll
1, was a frequently brought up topic in the dent debt. Both candidates similarly stated governorship. Cordray, citing his experi-
conducted by Ohio Politics found
debate. Issue 1, which will be on the Nov. the cost of college is too high and then ence as director of the Consumer Financial
that 84 percent of the 641 voters
6 ballot, is a proposal to lessen drug crime proceeded to argue about Cordray’s han- Protection Bureau, said he wants to work
sentencing. DeWine is in favor of it; Cor- dling of untested rape kits as Ohio Attor- on behalf of those who are taken advan- said Dayton should decriminalize
dray is not. ney General, which was brought up mul- tage of in society. DeWine, citing his ex- minor marijuana violations.
Republican Rep. Niraj J. Antani (city tiple times during the debate. However, perience in Ohio politics, said he wants to Two juniors who smoke mari-
of Dayton’s state representative) said in an the issue existed before Cordray’s tenure, take Ohio “to the next level” with a focus juana said they agree with the city
interview with Flyer News that he supports and Cordray took steps to solve the issue on a bright future and the next generation. putting the question on the No-
DeWine because he’s against Issue 1. before he was unseated from office, iron- cont. on page 6 vember ballot.
In a notable moment from the debate, ically, by DeWine. It took DeWine several cont. on page 4
Cordray compared taking DeWine’s ad- years to test the backlog of rape kits.
2 NEWS
FLYER NEWS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 25
Spotlight on sustainability: Students take action
KAITLIN GAWKINS
Online Editor
Sustainability plays a major role in UD’s Marianist
Catholic mission. The Hanley Sustainability Insti-
tute, which was featured in part one of this series,
is a champion for bringing UD’s efforts in sustain-
ability to the world scene. However, it’s important
to note that sustainability at this University is not
a new notion, rather it’s at the ver y heart of UD’s
founding.
As stated on the “Energ y and Sustainability” page
of UD’s website, “Our founders planted orchards,
far med the sur rounding land for their daily food
and constr ucted the first few buildings from materi-
als found locally. The concept of recycle, reuse and
conser ve is ingrained in our faith, our teachings and
our heritage.”
One professor at the University who is familiar
with this heritage and who came to UD 25 years
ago with the dedication to live it out more fully is
Dr. Carl Friese of the environmental biolog y depart-
ment.
Dr. Friese started his career as a field ecologist.
When an accident caused him to have health prob-
lems, he shifted his focus toward environmental ed-
ucation, a cause which he believes improves the out- but it was dropped due to extraneous reasons.
look of the future of our planet. He played a major Dr. Freise mentioned in his classes that he tries
role in the conception of the environmental biolog y to avoid the “doom and gloom” approach of teach-
major and remains a dedicated lecturer, teaching En- ing about the environment. Instead, he emphasizes
vironmental Ecolog y and Sustainable Biosphere. what we can do to reduce our ecological footprint
In Sustainable Biosphere, Honors students started and create a brighter future for ourselves and the
off with small projects working with the Sustain- planet. He remains optimistic for many reasons, one
ability Club. These topics included why the Univer- of them being that he works at a university filled
sity should use fluorescent rather than incandescent with creative, open-minded students who are willing
bulbs and why UD should change to low flow show- to step out of the box in which they are classically
er heads. Both ideas were implemented into the cam- trained in order to work together to approach the
pus plan. topic of sustainability from a multidisciplinar y per-
After those first couple of successes, they decided spective.
to think big ger. Dr. Friese explained the high point “The college setting alone is unique because you
of the class was when his students created a blue- have a group of young people who are all passionate
print for an entire building dedicated to sustainable about something who have a lot of energ y to come
living and learning that boasted apple trees, a green together to get a project done,” Freise said.
roof, environmental education labs and more. It Steve Kendig, the executive director of Energ y
was to be named after Sister Dorothy Stag, a Day- Utilization & Environmental Sustainability at UD,
ton-born environmentalist who was assassinated for agrees with this sentiment and hopes in the future
her efforts to protect the Brazilian rainforest from we can continue to challenge ourselves to go places
depletion via agriculture. The sustainable complex originally thought impossible. So what do we have is to develop a climate action plan to systematically
was accepted into the master plan for UD’s future, in store? For Kendig, the next step in sustainability reduce or eliminate UD’s carbon emissions. In addi-
tion, he hopes to continue working on communica-
tion and education of faculty, staff and students on
the sustainability programming
that is cur rently implemented.
When asked to comment on the circulating r umor
that UD has become lax on its commitment to recy-
cling, he insisted this is “not tr ue at all.” In fact, he
went on to explain that UD partners with Rumpke
to recycle and is “cur rently working on a feasibility
study to do onsite composting for the whole campus.
This
diverse group of passionate, creative and like-mind-
ed people makes it clear that the future of sustain-
ability at UD and in the world is in our hands. It’s
these small steps that will lead to the larger refor ms,
which will enable us to respectfully live in our “com-
mon home.”
This is part two of the two-part “Spotlight on sustainabil-
ity” Flyer News article series. Both also ar e available on
flyer news.com
NEWS 3
FLYER NEWS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 25
Happenings in Dayton
Events taken from daytonlocal.com
Ren Fest 2018 Corn Maze Adventure & Fall Fun
For those yearning to return to the days before air conditioning and This fall celebration boasts an 8-acre corn maze and pumpkin patch.
indoor plumbing, Dayton’s renaissance festival is the place for you. According to the sponsors, it’s perfect for kids between the ages of
Enjoy themed weekends, turkey legs and jousts. two to 92. (I wonder what happened to the last 93-year-old who went
there.)
Sept. 1 - Oct. 28; Saturdays, Sundays 10:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
10542 East State Route 73, Waynesville, OH 45068 (40 min. from Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays until Nov. 4
UD) Apple Country Farm Market - 2323 U.S. Route 42, Spring Valley,
Buy tickets at https://www.renfestival.com OH 45370 (30 min. from UD)
http://www.applecountryfarm.com/fall-farm-fun/corn-maze
Lewisburg Haunted Cave Dayton Philharmonic: Pictures at an Exhibi-
Those who are tired of regular haunted houses should enjoy this ter- tion
rifying locale - a real cave with 500 feet of bridges and 30,000 bats. This cultural event seems like the perfect opportunity to make yourself
It’s open rain or shine, but remember to bring cash because they don’t more learned. Great time to close your eyes and let the classical music
accept cards...or Flyer Express most likely. take you away, even if only for a moment.
Friday & Saturday evenings until Oct. 27
7:00 p.m., Fri., Sept. 28 & Sat., Sept. 29
4393 Swishers Mill Road, Lewisburg, OH 45338 (30 min. from
The Schuster Center - 1 W 2nd St., Dayton, OH 45402 (5 min.
UD)
from UD)
http://hauntedcaveatlewisburg.com/ Reserve tickets by calling 937-228-7591; student discounts may be
available
Cowvin’s Corn Maze at Young’s Dairy Corn Maze and Fall Festivities at Idle-Hour
If you enjoy getting up close and personal with farm animals and Ranch
losing your sense of direction in mazes then this fall festivity is perfect If you enjoy Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Lattes, you’ll most definitely
for you. enjoy this weekly weekend celebration of all things fall. Perfect for
Daily from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. until Oct. 29
dorm floor outings, this event features a corn maze, an animal sanctu-
6880 Springfield-Xenia Road, Yellow Springs, OH 45387 (30 min. ary and hayrides.
from UD)
https://youngsdairy.com/ Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays until Oct. 28
4845 Fenner Road, Troy, OH 45373 (30 min. from UD)
https://www.daytonlocal.com/things-to-do/corn-maze-and-fall-
Your Dayton Bucket List festivities-at-idle-hour-ranch.asp
The NEON
Featured in last issue’s “Three date nights under $25,” this Dayton
fixture is a great place for a first romantic outing or to spend time
with friends and family. The movie theater plays a diverse array of
films, and there’s a discount for UD students.
130 E 5th St., Dayton, OH 45402
neonmovies.com
Graphic courtesy of Mary Guida, Art Director
4 NEWS
FLYER NEWS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 25
Entrance to Roesch changing after Fall Break
KATY KELLY the ground floor and upper veniently book a study room
Roesch Library floors. online at libcal.udayton.edu.
Coordinator of And, because the renovation
When Roesch reopens Oct. is temporarily taking premi-
Marketing & Engagement
6, all ser vices and technology um first-floor study and team
that you’re used to seeing on space offline, we’ve partnered
Roesch Refresh has two big
the first floor — checkouts, with departments across cam-
surprises for students when
computers, printers, research pus to
they return from midterm
ser vices, the Write Place and
break:
Tech Express — will be op- offer additional study spaces
erational on the second floor. during the renovation. This
• The grand reopening of the
Leisure reading, periodicals includes space in Fitz Hall,
newly renovated second floor
and microform are moving to Rike Center, Kettering Labs,
– a bright, colorful, open
the second floor, too. St. Joseph Hall and the Jury
space designed to meet the
On the renovated second Box. Check the Roesch Re-
scholarly and social needs of
floor, you will find new loca- fresh website for hours and a
today’s students, faculty and
tions to get assistance: map.
staff.
Reminder: The first-floor
• A detour.
• At the new “Hello” desk, you closure is temporary. Don’t let
can receive directional help to a little extra travel time stand
Roesch Refresh’s second
navigate our new layout and between you and all the great
phase — the complete make-
check out books. ser vices in Roesch Library that
over, down-to-the-studs ren-
• At the ser vices desk, you can can help foster your success.
ovation of the first floor —
receive all library ser vices in And let’s not forget the add-
means we’ll have to shut down
one place: meeting with a li- ed benefit of walking by the
the main entrance, the one
brarian; checking out materi- Blend on your way to the sec- Visit the Roesch Refresh map of entrances, exits, stair-
facing St. Mary’s Hall, until
als like books, phone chargers ond floor. I recommend the website — go.udayton.edu/ cases and elevator access; and
August 2019.
or other equipment; as well Highlander Grog g paired with roeschrefresh — for the time- a map and schedule of alter-
But fear not: Starting at
as computing, scanning and a lemon poppyseed muffin. line and important updates; a nate campus study spaces.
noon Saturday, Oct. 6, after
printing.
our 2-day closure to move to
• Tech Express, a laptop, pass- Top. LTC Entrance facing College Park Drive. Bottom. Doors opposite Stewart Street Apartments. These will be
the second floor, Roesch Li- the new entrances after Roesch reopens following Fall Break. Photos taken by Sean Newhouse
word and Wi-Fi troubleshoot-
brary has got you covered for
ing ser vice of UDit, will be
study and team space, library
present at the Ser vices desk
materials, research and writing
3–8 p.m. Sunday–Thursday.
help, printing and computing
• The Write Place will have its
and tech support. All you’ll
own table near the ser vices
have to do is beat a new path
desk where you can check in
to the alternate entrances:
for a writing consultation.
• Ground floor: These doors,
Once the first floor is fin-
which face College Park Drive,
ished in August 2019, the ser-
lead into the Learning Teach-
vices on the second floor will
ing Center (LTC) on the li-
move back downstairs into
brary’s ground floor. This is
the bright, open, beautiful,
the only handicapped-accessi-
patron-centered space. If you
ble entrance, now with a new
haven’t watched the video yet,
automatic door. From there,
search YouTube for “Roesch
you can take a stairwell to the
Refresh” and prepare to be
upper floors or go through the
amazed.
LTC to the elevators.
While we wait for the first
• North-side doors: These
floor to be finished, all of the
face the Stewart Street Garden
study areas on floors 4, 5 and
Apartments. They lead into a
6 remain, and you can con-
small lobby with a stairwell to
cont. from page 1 The other source said this could eliminate wasteful prohibited.
spending. Additionally, the outcome of this referendum will not
“I think that if you look at the bigger picture, marijua- “If we took the money spent on arresting and prose- impact state or federal law. In other words, marijuana still
na possession and use, especially in the amounts we’re cuting recreational marijuana users, which shouldn’t even will be considered illegal to the state of Ohio and U.S.
discussing to decriminalize, should be the least of the be a crime to begin with, the city would save itself money government.
city’s concerns,” said one source who requested to remain to spend on more important issues.” UD students are able to vote on this issue and cast an
anonymous because of privacy. “There’s no reason mari- As a private university, UD will still dictate its own pol- Ohio ballot by registering at their campus address. Any
juana should still be illegal. It harms a lot less people than icy regarding marijuana possession. The policy, outlined questions regarding voter registration can be directed to
alcohol every year. If people want to smoke, nothing is in the University Handbook, states the illegal use, posses- voteeverywhere@udayton.edu.
really stopping them.” sion, manufacturing or distribution of marijuana is strictly
NEWS 5
FLYER NEWS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 25
Here’s why your UD Wi-Fi connection might be so slow
SEAN NEWHOUSE
News Editor
software.
For some students, bad Wi-Fi is as synonymous with UD “Unfortunately, a day or so later, it kicked me off
as the word “community.” But it doesn’t have to be that ‘eduroam’ and wouldn’t let me back on,” Ruebelman said.
way. She went back to UDit where they reset her password,
A key reason why certain students may encounter bad and it’s since worked without issue. But that still might
Wi-Fi is if they haven’t downloaded the proper software. not be your Wi-Fi problem.
In the first week alone, 170 students went to University Senior history major Andy Rosta says the Wi-Fi doesn’t
of Dayton IT (UDit) with that issue, according to Jamie work well in his apartment and his phone and laptop have
Luckett, director of IT services. been slow in Roesch Library.
Prior to this academic year, UD used two secure Wi-Fi Director of Networking Devin Smith explained the
networks – “UDsecure” and “eduroam.” Over the sum- Wi-Fi network isn’t always the prime problem.
mer, UD made the switch to exclusively use “eduroam.” “There’s an old moniker in the IT world…that every-
“Eduroam” is used on multiple campuses around the thing is the network’s fault,” Smith said.
country, and even the world. UD students set up with However, any number of extraneous variables can
“eduroam” who visit Ohio State, for example, will auto- cause Wi-Fi issues. As an example, Smith noted the type
matically connect to its campus Wi-Fi when they’re with- of printer students use in their home can disrupt the Wi-
in range. Fi connection. Network Engineer Anthony DeCerbo en-
However, “eduroam” requires an extra step besides the couraged students experiencing issues to contact UDit
regular sign-in with a username and password. Students by calling 937-229-3888 or by visiting its office in the
need to use a wizard to set up a domain identifier on all Anderson Center
their devices. In simpler words, students need to go to a “We can’t fix something if we don’t know it’s a prob-
website, follow the steps and download the software. lem,” DeCerbo said.
Students received an email on June 11 with those While UDit has monitoring software for 2,500 access
steps. That information can be found at go.udayton.edu/ points, things can be missed. Last year, Founders resi-
wifi. But this isn’t the only reason you might have poor dents reported poor Wi-Fi. UDit then set up temporary
Wi-Fi. access points and replaced the ones in the first-year dorm
Annual password expirations may be at fault. Each over the summer.
academic year, students need to reset their password (the “We don’t want you to suffer in silence,” said Kim
one you use to get into Porches). Having an expired pass- Conde, UDit communication coordinator.
word or resetting it may disconnect you from “eduroam.” But sometimes even contacting IT won’t solve your
Emily Ruebelman, a sophomore discover arts major, problem.
experienced both of these issues. Initially, she couldn’t UDit doesn’t manage the Wi-Fi in either Irving Com-
get her iPhone or MacBook to connect to “eduroam,” so mons or on Rogge Street. Those student residents should
she went to UDit where they downloaded the necessary contact Facilities to report Wi-Fi connectivity issues.
What’s worse than one giant storm?
DOMINIC ORTENZO
International Affairs Columnist On September 16, Super Typhoon Mangkhut sphere as cyclone-prone ter ritor y. The North Atlan-
On Sept. 13, Hur ricane Florence took shape near moved to the South China Sea, giving coastal Chi- tic and East Pacific are hur ricane-prone regions. A
the U.S. Atlantic Coast. CBS News reported on nese cities the worst it had to offer. When Mangkhut sizeable portion of water stretching across the West
Sept. 15 the hur ricane was centered 50 miles off the hit the mainland, The Hong Kong Obser vator y is- Pacific is the typhoon-prone region.
coast of the Carolinas and was moving three mph, sued its highest level of tropical cyclone warning They really all are the same; the difference is
which added trillions of gallons of rain to the local signals. location. They are all stor ms, but each has a domi-
forecast. As a result, at least 25 have been killed At the same time, other Chinese cities in the nating quality.
by stor m-related instances, 500,000 buildings and provinces of Guangdong and Hainan were affected Typhoons are caused by the high water tempera-
homes are without power and tens of thousands of by unrelenting gusts of wind. More than 2.5 million ture in the West Pacific, and the lack of landmass
Carolina residents have been displaced. As of Sept. people fled the Guangdong province because of the makes for perfect typhoon breeding grounds. This
17, the hur ricane has been reduced to a post-tropical warnings. Students at the UD China Institute in Su- year already, the region has experienced 23 named
cyclone and has returned to the Atlantic Ocean. zhou experienced severe thunderstor ms. stor ms. The Atlantic has had 10. AP reported this
Florence’s speeds averaged around 100 mph, Mangkhut now is considered to be the worst total of stor ms is “more than 30 percent busier than
which, according to the Saffir-Simpson Hur ricane stor m to hit Hong Kong since 1983. After the stor m average years.”
Wind Scale, puts Florence somewhere between a cat- passed, ever yone within the danger zone received The cause of all tropical stor ms comes from the
egor y two and three strength hur ricane. For perspec- text warnings not to go outside. Those who did not heating of water. The faster the water evaporates
tive, Hur ricane Katrina was a categor y five. While heed the warnings risked injur y or even death, as and collects in the sky, the more water is packed and
Florence attracted international headlines, so did its inches of water flooded streets and gusts of wind ready for the next tropical stor m. The larger the area
counterpart on the opposite side of the world. moved faster than speeding cars. of water, the more violent a stor m will become.
Typhoon Mangkhut ravaged the southeast coast Officials speculated Mangkhut caused more than No one lives in tropical stor m zones on purpose.
of Asia, taking shape four days before Florence and 100 deaths across its whole path. The Philippine is- For many, their occupations are what reel them into
lasting a day longer. In that time, Mangkhut caused land of Luzon received the br unt of the stor m; a har m’s way. Many more live in them without a choice.
mass flooding in Guam and the Marshall Islands. landslide in the town Itogon resulted in the majority In the Pacific Islands, some towns suffer endlessly
When the stor m made landfall in the Philippines, its of the stor m’s casualties. CBS has been keeping a due to local weather patterns. As the environment
wind speeds were up to 165 mph. This would make report of the body count, as workers retrieve more of the world changes, the effects of these natural
it a categor y five hur ricane, or the aptly named ty- ever y day. Up to 81 have been found as of Sept. 22. disasters are becoming increasingly destr uctive.
phoon equivalent – “super typhoon.” Typically, meteorologists classify the southern hemi-
6 NEWS
FLYER NEWS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 25
cont. from page 1 Rose Redgate. “With the help of
voter education, it helps people
The state economy was not a feel connected to issues.”
major topic in the debate. Jane President Eric Spina also ex-
Timken, chairwoman of the pressed excitement about UD
Ohio Republican party, de- hosting the debate.
scribed the economy as “issue “This is a remarkable oppor-
number one” when asked by tunity to showcase the Universi-
Flyer News which subjects the ty of Dayton,” Spina said. “The
candidates should debate. learning experiences for our
Timken also thanked UD Col- students and the opportunity
lege Republicans for their vol- to provide a venue for civil dis-
unteer campaign work this year. course about issues facing our
College Republicans hosted state are immensely important
its own viewing party in Adele to us.”
Center and were visited by Mike Earlier in the evening, yard
DeWine and Jon Husted (‘89) signs supporting DeWine/
after the debate. Husted were put up in the stu-
Vote Everywhere sponsored a dent neighborhood. University
watch party at The Hangar for political activities policy does
all students. not allow this.
Student volunteers for the de- DeWine announced in the
bate were invited to a watch par- spin room after the debate that
ty at Curran Place where media he was expecting another grand-
could interview them. Cordray child.
and UD alumna Dayton Mayor Moderator James Brown re-
Nan Whaley (D) came after the minded viewers Oct. 9 is the last
debate to talk and take pictures day to register to vote. UD stu-
with those students. dents can find voting informa-
Students were thankful for the tion at my.VoteEverywhere.org
opportunity to view the debate,
but could not agree on exactly
who the winner was.
“I think Richard Cordray won
tonight’s debate,” said senior Top. UD Professor and Former Gov.
political science major Nora Bob Taft takes a photo with students
Walsh. “Mike DeWine spent a at the watch party. Right. Student
lot of time criticizing Cordray, volunteers got to view the event at a
but I think both did a lot of debate watch party in Curran Place.
fighting. Voters probably want- Bottom left. Junior Joey Glasgow
ed to hear more about policy takes a photo with Cordray. Bottom
views.” right. DeWine answers questions in
“DeWine won the debate, in the spin room. Photo of spin room
my opinion,” said SGA vice provided by Emma Kapp. All other
president Erica Szczechowski. photos taken by Christian Cubacub.
“He aligns more with my ideals,
but Cordray also did a wonder-
ful job.”
Although the first debate was
thorough, a few issues were not
covered.
“A question on immigration is
something I wanted to hear, but
I did feel like they hit on enough
diverse topics,” said Mayra Bae-
za, a senior studying sociology.
Overall, the excitement sur-
rounding the debate showed
how important it is for college
students to be involved in state
politics.
“Having an event on campus
automatically increases people’s
interest in issues,” said Vote
Everywhere ambassador Anna
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 7
FLYER NEWS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 25
To All the Boys I’ve
Loved Before: Not a
typical teenage
romantic comedy
their own identity and able to speak her truth Photo Courtesy of https://www.showtimes.com
CASSIDY KYLIN
voice. even when it may be is unwilling to let a boy
Staff Writer mom passed away when has to take the place as a
In today’s film in- hard to do so. play with her heart.
This type of empow- she was a young girl and role model to Kitty, but
Romantic comedies dustry, you do not find When her and Peter
erment from a female Peter’s father walked out because her life is turned
are typically predict- much diversity within begin this arrangement,
lead is so important for on him and his family. upside down with the
able and full of clichés, the lead roles. Not often Lara Jean is dead set on
young Since they have both letters being released and
but that’s usually what do we see actors from creating a
women been through similar starting a fake relation-
makes them great. The different backgrounds contract of
in to- tragedies they are able to ship she starts to ignore
light-heartedness of take the lead in movies, rules and
day’s support one another and her older sister and
these films makes it an especially movies target- regula- deal with this type of questions her own sense
easy story to get hooked ing teenagers. Lara Jean tions loss. As they continue to of right and wrong. Lara
on while also being ter- is a Korean-American they bond, they both develop Jean struggles with the
ribly predictable because who has written love let- both feelings for one anoth- lies she is telling every-
you can always figure ters to every boy she has must er but are afraid to one and shuts Margot
out who gets the girl ever had a crush on. In fol- admit it. out because she knows
before it’s over. the unfortunate events that she cannot lie to her
At first glance, the that unfold, these let- sister.
new Netflix original, To ters are sent to the This inner battle Lara
All the Boys I’ve Loved all the boys she’s Jean is dealing with
Before, can be seen as loved before. drives her to make de-
one of these predictable Consequently, cisions about her fake
romantic comedies, but Lara Jean relationship and come
saying this would be an gets caught to terms with the feel-
injustice to the film’s up in a ings she has developed
creative approach to fake rela- for Peter. When Lara
include certain social tionship Jean finally sits down
issues about race and in- with Pe- with Margot to ex-
dividuality. The incorpo- ter, the plain everything that
ration of an empowered most has been going on in
Asian female lead with- pop- her life she is able to
out typecasting her as ular find her voice again.
submissive woman, like boy Lara Jean needed
other Asian women in in the guidance and
film so often are, is one support of her sister
of the key reasons why to remind herself
this movie is unlike any that she is a strong
other romantic comedy. woman who is able
Not only is the pres- to be upfront with
ence of female empow- Photo Courtesy of http://www.whats-on-netflix.com the people in her life
world to see because it
erment a large focus Lara Jean’s connection and be true to herself.
teaches them that their
for this film, but the with her sisters is an Finding a movie with
school, that eventually low in order to make voice is just as important
spotlight on sisterhood important thing to note an unpredictable ending
turns into real love. the relationship seem as any other voice out
in times of family strug- because the only female that also attacks social
Lara Jean is strong real to their peers while there.
gle is present in the film influence they have issues is tough which is
willed, kind hearted and also keeping their own As the plot devel-
as well. This bond helps had is from each other. why To All The Boys I’ve
a romance novel lover; feelings in check. ops, Lara Jean and Peter
the characters under- Margot, the eldest sister, Loved Before makes for
which almost makes her The way Lara Jean turn their fake relation-
stand how to deal with acts as a mother figure a great pick on your next
an expert on relation- stresses the importance ship into a true friend-
the mental struggle that to Lara Jean and her movie night.
ships. She knows that that this relationship as ship where they are able
comes along with losing younger sister Kitty.
she wants all of her fake, in order to keep to talk with each other
a loved one and gives Once Margot leaves
“firsts” to be real and her from getting at- about the problems they
the opportunity for the for college, Lara Jean is
because of this she is tached, shows that she face at home. Lara Jean’s
characters to develop the one left behind and
8
ART & ENTERTAINMENT
FLYER NEWS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 25
Dayton, Ohio: The Land of Funk
EMILY BATTAGLIA process. of the 21 panels making up in the program this past sum- Photos Courtesy of Jessica Bullock
Staff Writer Brittini Long, along with the mural. mer after she encountered
colleague Shirley Tucker, Howard’s reason for Long at a presentation put on for people to see the good in in which they would take
With its dilapidated managed the project and has choosing funk as his theme for her juvenile justice class them.” a break from painting and
sidewalks, one-way streets seen the positive impact it can arose from his desire to last spring. After witnessing Though inexperienced spend time writing.
and vast expanse of buildings, have on the kids involved. memorialize the genre in Long’s discussion about with visual art, Bullock is “Creative writing is a
the landscape of downtown “It teaches them life the city of its birthplace. HAALO and her role there, passionate about creative really good way for people to
Dayton looks like any other. skills to translate into their Although Dayton is home to Bullock knew she had to find writing and the therapy it can express themselves and learn
However, when driving along everyday lives,” Long said. “It many well-known funk artists, a way to get involved. provide. She was able to in- other perspectives,” Bullock
the side of the railroad bridge said. “By the end of it I
on Stone Street, the dynamic formed really good relation-
quickly shifts as 21 vibrant ships with all of the kids.”
paintings dedicated to funk Throughout the summer,
music dance across the once- Bullock also remained in
gray concrete. contact with different organi-
This work of art, titled zations that practice creative
“The Land of Funk,” was writing in this manner.
a joint effort by the HAA- One organization called
LO (Helping Adolescents “The Beat Within” gave her
Achieve Long-Term Goals) advice on how to execute
program and the K12/TE- such a project, and also
JAS gallery to teach youth offered her a section in the
in the Montgomery County magazine to showcase the
Court system life skills while students’ writing and pictures
also exposing them to art. of the mural.
In its eighth year, the The magazine will be
HAALO program produces published in the upcoming
a work of art in downtown months and sent to commu-
Dayton each summer with nities and schools across the
the help of high-school aged nation.
youth involved in the court Through this unique and
system. Every day this past eye-opening experience, both
summer, 10-15 students spent Bullock and the youth in-
roughly five hours per day volved in HAALO were able
painting part of what would to gain something positive.
eventually become a 21 panel For Bullock, it was a chance
funk masterpiece. to work for a cause that
The HAALO program she feels passionate about;
“...the kids would come and be present and work really hard and it and for the youth, it was an
firmly believes that this mural,
though physically demanding was really cool to be inspired by that.” opportunity to develop them-
to create, allows this group of selves, their future choices,
young people to develop cru- and the face of downtown
cial skills while also making a shows them responsibility, Long said Howard felt more “She [Long] started talking Dayton.
positive impact on their city. how to overcome obstacles... people appreciate this aspect about the murals and I felt corporate this aspect into her “HAALO is a really great
The project was funded they also gain friendships that of the city than Daytonians. this super strong call to work job with HAALO, starting way to change the communi-
by a Culture Works grant, a will last a lifetime.” Therefore, the goal of in some kind of way,” Bullock each morning with a prompt ty’s perception toward these
City of Dayton mini-grant, a The panels were designed the designs was to show an said. for the teens prior to painting kids,” Bullock said. “It was
Keep Montgomery Coun- by Dayton-based artist Morris appreciation to all the artists “I have felt that call for a with them for the remainder definitely hard work, but
ty Beautiful grant and the Howard. Long said that who brought funk to Dayton very long time to work with of the day. the kids would come and be
Montgomery County Juvenile Howard had approached her and the rest of the world. that population because of- As the summer went on, present and work really hard
Court Foundation. No tax- with a drawing that eventually Senior psychology major tentimes I think they are very Bullock said she would pull and it was really cool to be
payer dollars were used in the expanded to become seven Jess Bullock also was involved misunderstood and it’s hard some of the students aside inspired by that.”
for a brief one-on-one time
ART & ENTERTAINMENT 9
FLYER NEWS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 25
What Happened to Crocs?
MELODY CONRAD Reinvention Comeback Kid
Assistant A&E Editor “I think you do get to the point where maybe every- Despite closure of its facilities, Crocs is in fact making
body has a red and a blue and a black pair and they are a comeback in the fashion world, prompting some uprise
Crocs is getting creative. The infamous “ugly shoe” that looking for something else, and that was part of the strat- on social media to the news of closures.
filled our adolescent years is trying to make a comeback, egy,” according to Christy Saito, vice president of product Fear not, according to Rich Duprey, stock advisor.
and after a period of ups and downs, some are beginning design. He writes that Crocs are completely “switching over to
to question what the future holds for the young company. Crocs developed a new line of flats and tennis shoes to third-party manufacturers,” and will still make the rubber
Is it too late for the foam shoe business to recapture the try and keep up with public desire, trying to marry com- shoes. The company has been steadily recovering since
eyes- and feet- of society? fort and fashion. It worked, at least temporarily. In 2012, 2014 despite shutting down their retail locations.
Crocs opened 120 new stores and expanded oversea sales “False alarm: We aren’t going anywhere.” Crocs tweeted
Height of Fashion according to CNN Money. By reaching out to a larger mar- in response to the social media frenzy.
According to Jim Spellman of CNN Money, Crocs ket, it appeared Crocs may be on the road to recovery.
grew in popularity from 2004 to 2007, topping out at A Little Endorsement Goes A Long Way
$850 million in sales. Colorful foam clogs hung from store Crocs Closes Remaining Manufacturing Facilities So what changed the societal outlook on the colorful
shelves across the nation, and the squeaky, rubberized Fast forward 6 years and we find Crocs rescinding pro- rubber shoes?
shoes soon found their way into the hearts and soles of duction of their famous footwear. The chief financial offi- Promotion involving Drew Barrymore, Henry Lau and
people everywhere. cer is resigning. Facilities in Mexico and Italy are throwing YOONA brought the footwear back into the public eye
It was an unprecedented fashion statement that fo- in the towel. Denver Business Journal writes in August that through the hashtag #ComeAsYouAre. Crocs became
cused on comfort instead of looks, and the public loved 28 retail sale locations are closing. the summer shoe to wear once more because of a few
it. The footwear could be worn through puddles, to class Yet herein lies the mystery: people are starting to key players and a recommitment to its original values on
and on-the-job. It could be personalized with “jiblets” wear Crocs again, especially high school and college-age comfort.
that pushed into the holes, attesting a love of mermaids students. Two years ago, a few of my friends in homeroom
or soccer or any number of images that could fit into the would come in to the class sporting the clogs and I would Stepping Forward
shoe. It was breathable; it was comfortable; it was insanely laugh. While some continue to swear off
popular. And then the recession hit. It was too soon for the shoes to be popular again- Crocs as a bygone, it seems others are
they had hardly reached the stage of public ridicule and not so quick to judge. They’re willing
Slipping Away abandonment. People barely had time to look back at their to offer a second chance to the shoe
Crocs was hit by the recession in 2008 just like other middle school photos and join in a communal laugh of company, and the stock prices are
businesses, but received a double-punch as consumers “What-were-we-thinking?” reflecting this gradual re-accep-
became tired of the unappealing look around the same Yet two weeks ago, a fellow student and I engaged in a tance. As a nontraditional shoe,
time. The shoes were everywhere; produced in such a large conversation about her white Crocs that she was wearing Crocs has managed to do
number that the market was nearly exhausted. to class. She described the process of cleaning them to what few fad-related busi-
Crocs CEO John McCarvel said to Spellman, maintain their pristine look before proudly nesses can: stay afloat.
“Too many people have the same product, selling squeaking away. Had Crocs defied conven-
it to the same consumers, and just our inability tion too late in the game?
to evolve as a brand caused a turn
of fortunes in
the busi-
ness.”
Crocs were a fad,
and the fad had passed
as fashionistas reclaimed
the market with more visually Photos Courtesy of Crocs.com
appealing footwear. Or had it?
College Recipe Corner: Gooey Salted Caramel Brownies
Dessert is something that is often times overlooked in • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder Whisk until thoroughly combined. Sift in the
the typical college student’s kitchen. Once we’re done • 1 teaspoon salt flour, cocoa powder, and salt, and fold to incor-
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
slaving away over our dinner the last thing we want to • 3 cups soft caramel candy
porate. Fold in the chocolate chips.
do is start all over again with dessert. However, these TOPPING Pour half of the batter into the baking
simple brownies are well worth the extra time and • 1 ½ cups soft caramel candy pan and spread to cover the bottom.
effort! They’re simple enough to complete quickly • ¼ cup heavy cream Arrange the caramel candies in
and without much mess, but still different than your • flaky sea salt, for sprinkling a single layer over the bat- ter.
average brownie recipe. PREPARATION Pour the rest of the batter
INGREDIENTS Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an over the caramel candies and
• ¾ cup unsalted butter 8x8-inch baking pan and line with parchment spread to cover.
• 1 cup granulated sugar paper. Bake for 35 min-
• ½ cup brown sugar
Make the brownies: in a large bowl, whisk utes or un- til
• 3 large eggs
• ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract together the melted butter, granulated sugar, center is
• 1 ½ cups all purpose flour and brown sugar. Add eggs and vanilla extract.
10 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
FLYER NEWS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 25
LAUREN DURHAM grandmother spent hours guiding her
Staff Writer hands along a page, teaching her step-
by-step how to draw a cartoon lion.
Van Gogh–the name alone brings Although an incredible artist herself,
to mind mystical skies and lively yellow Cooper’s grandmother never had the
bouquets of flowers. Ashley Cooper, a opportunity to pursue her passion. After
graphic design major and marketing mi- her grandmother’s battle with Alzhei-
nor, was ashamed to say that Van Gogh mer’s and eventual passing, Ashley took
held the top spot on her list because it upon herself to follow the dream that
it felt like it was the “stereotypical” her and her greatest supporter both
answer. Stereotypical or not, Ashley’s shared.
reason behind her choice fuels both “She’s [her grandmother] one thing
her artwork and daily life, making her that I think about a lot that helps
choice truly personal. inspire me, especially when stuff gets
In Van Gogh’s lifetime, he endured really hard and time consuming,”Cooper
mental health battles that transformed stated.
into the stunning works of art we Originally a sociology minor, it is no
admire tod ay. Cooper connects to secret that Cooper intends on making
Van Gogh’s relationship with art on a a difference with her work. Although
personal level. She values the impact art she isn’t entirely sure what her path will
has had on her own emotions and how look like after graduation, she sees the
it has helped her overcome her own importance of artists in today’s world.
inner battles. Cooper commented that, “All art is
Although Cooper’s future career as underrated, but especially [for] a graphic
a graphic designer may focus on clean designer. I think our job is really trans-
and distinct designs, she has enjoyed lating information into something that’s
coloring outside of the lines here at understandable for the everyday human
UD. Her favorite mediums– charcoal who’s not necessarily into art, but more
and chalk pastels–allow her to do just into getting the important message”
that. “I’m already a messy person in my After a recent internship with
normal life, and I think that shows in Proctor & Gamble and a trip to New
my work. I can be neat when I have to York City with twelve other UD Fine
be neat, but I’m very all over the place Arts students, Cooper is excited about
with my work,” Cooper said. the rest of her time here at UD and the
With an interest in mental health, it exciting years that will follow. Meeting
is no surprise that Cooper has already agencies, seeing famous pieces in muse-
contributed to awareness. Last year, ums, and exploring a world outside of
Cooper created a piece inspired by pop- UD’s campus reiterated her passion.
ular contemporary artist, Dustin Yellin. attention with its pleasing aesthetic, but dots, as you can see, dominate the piece Cooper’s final statement that per-
She layered glass found from old picture upon closer inspection, admirers will of artwork, allowing people to see how fectly encompasses her relationship
frames and bottles found on campus to notice the dots that cover the outside many people are affected in just our with artwork was, “The world could not
create a modern interpretation of men- are not random. Each color represents nation alone. function as well as it does now without
tal health in America. a statistic regarding some category of For Cooper, art has always been a it [art].”
At first glance, it captures your mental health in the United States. The part of her life. At a young age, her12 OPINIONS 11
FLYER NEWS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 25
FLYER NEWS STAFF 2018-2019 When I was a boy, and I would see scary things in the news, my moth-
er would say to me
ONLINE EDITOR SPORTS EDITOR
Kaitlin Gawkins Connor Hanson
“Look for the helpers. You will always find
PRINT EDITOR ART DIRECTOR
people who are helping.”
Peter Kolb Mary Guida
- Mr. Rodgers
NEWS EDITOR ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR
Sean Newhouse Olivia Pettigrew
A&E EDITOR WEB TECHNICIAN
Chey Ward Rebecca Serivates
ASSISTANT A&E EDITOR MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
Melody Conrad Christian Luigi Cubacub
OPINIONS EDITOR SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
Mary McLoughlin Griffin Quinn
Midterms matter: GO OUT AND VOTE government to function properly, we have to par- dates that we decide to vote for are the ones that
Allison Saracina
Contributing Writer ticipate. Our democracy works when we vote. And make our laws. We have the power to put people in
when we don’t vote, how are we supposed to accept office that may agree with what the current admin-
Midterm elections are coming up on Nov 6th, an outcome that it isn’t fully representative of the istration is doing, or they may oppose what they are
and the students of Vote Everywhere have been people? We can’t. doing.
on campus helping to register students to vote and This is part of the reason why young people In 2018, this is especially important because
making it as easy as possible for them to get to the voting is so integral to our system. Another reason in our tense two-party system, the midterm vote
polls, by whatever legal means necessary. As college is the direct impact of the outcomes of midterm gives Democrats the chance to steer the legislative
students, we should all be registered, engaged and elections. In the U.S. Congress, 470 seats are up agenda, and gives Republicans the chance to decide
ready to vote when the day comes, but this isn’t for election on Nov 6, 2018. In addition to this, 36 whether they should encourage and continue their
the case. Why don’t we pay attention as much to states are holding elections for governor, and there current actions. Either way, voters this year are
non-presidential elections and why is it so important are many other state and county positions are up for able to significantly change the current makeup of
that we vote as young people? election as well. We have the ability to help choose Congress, almost halfway through Trump’s term.
Voter turnout for young voters, aged 18-24, has who gets to govern us, we give them those jobs, and This years outcome could influence the makeup of
been consistently low, especially during midterm we need to start paying better attention to who and the political landscape in 2020. Any way you slice
season. Ever since 18-year olds were given the vote what we vote for if we expect anything to change. it, these elections are definitely something to get
in 1971, young voters have been underrepresent- As students, we are constantly affected by the excited about. There are some major decisions to be
ed at the polls. This is largely due to the fact that choices that we make. Everything that we do is a made by the citizens of our country.
students and young people do not think that their vote. Whether it’s deciding what to buy at the gro- As young people, we need to pay better attention
vote matters. We don’t recognize the importance and cery store, choosing which classes to take, or even to what’s happening not only at the national level,
relevance of politics in our daily lives. just conversations with friends, we are making a but at the local, county, state levels so that we have
We have taxes taken out of our income, we fol- choice. Our democracy gives us the tools to create a better understanding of how we are shaped by
low the laws put in place or we face consequences, systemic change in our government through our the laws and the people that govern us. If we don’t
and most importantly, we have the ability to vote for voting. We get to vote for the people we share views participate, nothing will change, and the system will
individuals that we believe will govern best. How- with and on issues that will affect our day-to-day continue to be broken. Yes, voting is a right, but it is
ever, many of us are scared by the sheer magnitude life. This right also has great responsibility. It is our also a great privilege. We are privileged to have a say
of wanting to get our government out of a gridlock. duty to be informed voters about what will be on in our governmental processes, and the way that we
We’re frustrated, and we don’t know what choice is our ballots and what is happening in federal, state exercise our rights, and stand up for what we believe
the best choice. So oftentimes, we opt out of voting and local government because the decisions our in shapes our communities, our states, our nation.
because we don’t want to be a part of the system lawmakers make at all levels affect our life now and So please, get out and vote!
anymore. in the future.
However, what people oftentimes forget, is that Midterm elections are an important part of our Students can get help registering to vote by email-
by not voting, we are, in a way, choosing some- democracy because they allow us to have a check on ing voteeverywhere@udayton.edu or by going to
thing. We’re choosing withdrawal. We’re letting our our current administration. We are able to make the my.VoteEverywhere.org
frustration get to us. We forget that, in order for our decisions that put lawmakers in office. The candi-12 OPINIONS
FLYER NEWS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 25
Sesame Street: Puppet love and twin beds
MARY MCLOUGHLIN Despite the frantic backlash by
parents worried about a perverse
Opinions Editor
gay agenda, this isn’t about making
gay puppet sex present in children’s
On September 16, 2018 at 1:09 PM,
television. Rather, it’s about an ab-
after 50 years of sleeping in separate
sence—by what’s missing in the space
beds within a shared room, Bert
between Bert and Ernie’s twin beds.
and Ernie were allowed to love each
Queer people deserve representa-
other.
tion that allows non-sexualized depic-
In an interview with Queerty,
tions of same-sex love and intamcy.
Mark Saltzam, an openly gay writer
Dr. Steven Dowshen, an advisor for
for Sesame Street, was asked if Bert
KidsHealth.org, writes that kids who
and Ernie’s relationship reflected his
are queer are just as likely to develop
own relationship with his partner.
a consciousness of romantic attrac-
He responded:
tion during early childhood as kids
“I don’t think I’d know how else to
who are straight.
write them, but as a loving couple…
Queer representation doesn’t
Because how else? That’s what I had
change who kids are by turning
in my life, a Bert and Ernie relation-
straight kids gay—it gives them
ship. How could it not permeate?
permission to grow into who they
The things that would tick off Arnie
already are. Those kids deserve to
[Saltzam’s partner] would be the
know that they’ll grow up into a
things that would tick off Bert. How
world that has room for them to love
could it not?”
the way they are capable of loving.
Saltzman’s response picked up
I don’t really care if Bert and
the attention of other major news
Ernie are intended to be gay. I don’t
outlets and went viral as readers
need to see them married. But it hurts
grappled with what it meant to live
to see them scorned. We need to stop
in a world where Bert and Ernie
treating suggestions of non-hetero-
were allowed to hold each other.
sexuality as claims that need to be
For one day, seventeen hours, and
denied to protect the innocence of
seventeen minutes, fans, many who
icized the LGBT community rallying behind a Photo Courtesy of Flickr children.
identified as queer, rejoiced at the possibility
gay Bert and Ernie by arguing that their “goal is Something beautiful happened during
of twin bed pushed together while traditionalists worried
the normalization of homosexuality.” the single day Bert and Ernie were allowed to be with each
about how gay puppets might influence their children.
A change.org petition circulated from a parent argu- other. This world needs more tenderness, and through the
On September 18, 2018 at 6:26PM, Sesame Workshop
ing that, “Discussions of sexuality have no place with the suggestion of love between Bert and Ernie, Saltzam gave
released a now-deleted statement responding to the possibil-
particular demographic of Sesame Street. If Bert and Ernie us just that. The world and the media needs to make more
ity of a Bert and Ernie in love which read,
are married, I will boycott Sesame Street, all Sesame Street room for stories of queer love, but we also need to create
“Even though they are identified as male characters and
products and the products of Sesame Street’s funding space for ordinary queer life. The thought of Bert and
possess many human traits and characteristics (as most
partners.” Ernies beds—pushed together—offered a promise that the
Sesame Street characters do), they remain puppets, and do
beautiful, normal, and mundane parts of life that are beau-
not have a sexual orientation,”
I read about Sesame Street’s statement in an article from tiful for some people get to be beautiful for others. I hope
Sesame Street’s statement seemed largely motivated by
USA Today headlined “‘Sesame Street’ denies writer’s claim that someday soon we’re ready for just that.
critics who worried that sexualizing puppets from a chil-
dren’s show by making them gay was inappropriate. that Bert and Ernie are gay.” I found myself inexplicably
Lifesite USA, a religious “pro-family” publication, crit- saddened by their denial of a puppet romance.
The whole controversy of it all felt ridiculous, and it
felt bizarre to care enough about the love life of puppets
to be upset, but I hated reading the words “denies claim”
in a headline about gay puppets. People deny claims about
crimes and missteps. The suggestion of Bert and Ernie
loving each other didn’t feel like a claim ugly enough to have
to deny.
The suggestion of love between men and love between
women shouldn’t be considered pornographic, innapropri-
ate or radical. There’s nothing dirty about the idea that the
way Saltzman and his partner loved each other shaped the
way Bert and Ernie loved each other. Yet we view the sug-
gestion as same-sex relationships as explicitly sexual in ways
we would never perceive opposite-sex relationships.
Sesame Street refuted Saltzam’s suggestion that Bert and
Ernie were gay by insisting that puppets have no sexuality,
but no one flinched when Oscar the Grouch had a girlfriend
named Grungetta. Heterosexuality is seen as neutral, inher-
ent, and always appropriate—it’s the specific queerness of a
relationship between Bert and Ernie that’s the problem.You can also read
