About the author  ⁄ Lance Moore

Watercolor art premieres at Bronco Gallery

On  an impeccable Friday summer night, June 14, the Idaho Watercolor Society came together for its 34th annual juried membership reception and awards ceremony for the 2013 watercolor exhibition. From June 8-July 11, the top 50 works of art from watercolor artists who reside in the state of Idaho will be on display in the Student Union Gallery on the second floor of the Student Union Building. These were selected out of roughly 200 entries by juror Stan Miller, whom is a nationally recognized artist. The works consist of a broad array of styles, techniques and subject matter that conceptualize the respective vision, imagination and creativity of the artists who entered to have their work put on display.

Because of the summer interval at Boise State, the turnout for the reception was largely made up of community members and  members of the Idaho Watercolor Society. However, the community exhibition represents an increasing interest in the art community at Boise State. This is represented in the growing number of attendees at these sorts of receptions which average from around 100-125 people, depending on the time of the year.

The SUB hosts the 34th annual Watercolor Societies paintings. The exhibit represents the top 50 works of art from artists in Idaho. (Devin Ferrell/The Arbiter)

The SUB hosts the 34th annual Watercolor Societies paintings. The exhibit represents the top 50 works of art from artists in Idaho. (Devin Ferrell/The Arbiter)

Throughout the application process of having work exhibited in the SUB Gallery, there are an array of applicants which consist of current students, alumni, faculty and community members. The Art Advisory Board, whom are affiliated with Boise State Fine Arts, are the final deciders in this application process. Over the last few years, there has been a sharp increase in applicants as the Boise State community continues to grow each year. The criteria for selection is predicated upon a variety of requirements, from stylistic elements to the actual amount of work the artists would be able or willing to put on display.

According to Holly Gilchrist, fine arts manager at the SUB Gallery and Bronco Gallery Store, this last application cycle, “Drew out the most applicants we have ever had before, in particular the student based apps ranging from undergraduate to graduate students.”

By the time the end of the night had come about and the awards for the top 20 pieces had been revealed by Miller, there was a sense of excitement for the upcoming exhibitions which will take place throughout the upcoming academic year as students will have the opportunity to display their work.

Amy Rajkovich, graduate student and employee of Boise State Fine Arts, described the rise in student involvement regarding students actively seeking to display their work, “A snowball effect has occurred, and once students started recognizing their classmates work, they then decided to then send in applications themselves.”

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Jun 15, 2013 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment Comments 0

PRIDE flag raised over City Hall

On June 14, for the first time in history, the City of Boise raised the PRIDE flag over City Hall. Under the guidance of Mayor Dave Bieter and various City Council members, the raising of the PRIDE flag comes to represent the acceptance and adoration of the LGBTQIA (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, ally) community in the city of Boise. Many from this community are students at Boise State and came out to support this iconic event in Boise history alongside community members.

As the flag was raised to cheers and applause from the crowd, the event symbolized a moment that brought together not only the community, but the Boise State community as well.

Ryan Gregg, Boise State student body president and senior, stated, “Really the symbolic meaning of raising the flag says to the people that it holds meaning to ‘we hear you, we respect you and we will protect you.’”

James Boyette, junior criminal justice major at Boise State, reflected upon what he felt the raising of the PRIDE flag meant to him as both a student and resident of the Boise State community, “The raising of the PRIDE flag over city hall symbolizes progress, evolution and understanding.”

As a showing of appreciation and respect, attendees of the raising of the PRIDE flag placed flowers of various assortments at the base of the flag pole.

Boyette went on to say, “The PRIDE flag is a symbol that we are making progress, that no matter how many centuries of having a mindset or beliefs, people can change and we are all capable of evolving.”

When asked why he thought this was an important moment for the Boise State community, Gregg replied, “This is really important, especially to Boise State, because lots of times students come from different places.”

Although the event was brief, it was well received by all those whom attended as there was an atmosphere of both camaraderie and celebration which reflected the importance of the event.

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Jun 15, 2013 Posted by In News Comments 0

Boise State Students go to NASA

On Tuesday, May 28, the Boise State Microgravity Team readied their work on bone cell signaling aboard a microgravity craft to be presented to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). The interdisciplinary team of Boise State students will go to NASA to present their experiment with 10 students from their total 26 person team.

The students come from a variety of departments ranging from the department of Arts and Science, Business, as well as Education and Engineering. The heartbeat of their work is to study how gravitational forces affect calcium molecules in bone cells. This may possibly lead to valuable insight on how astronauts counteract weight and muscle loss during long periods of zero gravity while on missions to space.

In accordance with this, the purpose of their experiment also serves the hope of finding ways to prevent weightlessness in bed-ridden patients and people affected by osteoporosis here on Earth.

When asked about the experiment, Landon Nye, recent Boise State graduate who studied mechanical engineering, stated, “We hope to find a solution to offset this situation of bone loss for astronauts and also people here on Earth with bone related ailments.”

The inspiration behind their research on microgravity was a carry over from previous research done by past interdisciplinary teams. They had the goal in mind of adding on and advancing upon previous data by increasing data collection and adding more variable analysis to the experiment itself.

This is the third time Boise State will fly an experiment with the purpose of increasing data of microgravity in mind, as they seek to increase their depth of understanding applicable new knowledge. In order to apply for this program, the interdisciplinary team was subject to the highest standards of testing from NASA, and passed with flying colors.

Elisa Barney Smith, Ph.D., electrical and computer engineering department adviser, described the process thoroughly, “The team was required to submit detailed safety reports to NASA, they were questioned extensively, they filled in gaps, and everything passed NASA standards.”

The team will conduct their experiment from May 31-June 8 during Flight Week at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. The Boise State team is scheduled to fly by fellow students from across the nation totaling in over 13 different universities, including universities such as Purdue University, Rice University, University of Arizona, Virginia Tech and more.

When asked how it feels to be representing Boise State at a place like NASA, Nye stated, “We have had so much support from our school as they are genuinely interested in what we are seeking to accomplish with this experiment.”

 

 

 

 

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May 31, 2013 Posted by In News Tagged Comments 0

Top 8 Hangover Cures Exposed: Facts and myths about drinking wisely

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION/THE ARBITER

With shudder and a shake, we awake on our couch in a mass of messy hair and a pounding migraine. As the memories (or lack thereof) of the previous night’s alcohol-induced shenanigans begin to flood hazily into an aching cranium, our first act of the day is to find a cure as quickly as possible for the resulting hangover from a night of silly fun.

“A hangover is really the symptoms of acute withdrawal, in which your body reacts to not having a drug in its system anymore,” said Krista Medina, assistant professor of psychology at the University of Cincinnati. For most in the college demographic, this drug is alcohol.

Although there is no official immediate or instant cure for a hangover, there are plenty of aides to assist in the recovery process. Some may be sure fire remedies to getting you back on your feet, while others can only make the pain a little bit worse.

Here are the top eight hangover cures exposed in which to make an educated decision the next time a hangover comes knocking.

1). Coffee: Myth! Although there is a general consensus that a nice cup of joe can serve as the best reliever in the battle between a hangover and a speedy recovery process, this is in fact one of the worst things to do. Coffee is loaded with caffeine, and although it can perk the senses, it dehydrates the body. This in turn makes the symptoms brought on by a hangover more intense because when there is a high alcohol concentrate in the body, the body dehydrates. The body needs to rehydrate, so medical science recommends to stay away from caffeine and drink water or sports drinks.

“The release of an antiduretic hormone, meaning the kidneys don’t conserve water as well, and you urinate more,” assistant professor in the Department of Medicine at Emory University Sharon Berguist said on the CNNHealth website.

2.) Water, Sports Drinks: Fact! This is a major weapon in the fight to regain a sober self. Both of these products administer to the rehydration process and replenishment of the body, expunging the poisonous effects caused by alcohol. Although sports drinks are loaded with sugar, there are also full of electrolytes. Electrolytes have natural salts which help the body retain water.

3.) Pain Medication: Myth! Taking an Aspirin, Tylenol, or Excedrin sounds like a safe bet to stifle that pesky migraine, right? Wrong! Over-the-counter pain medications serve headaches and migraines not caused by alcohol well enough. But the truth is that when you are hungover, these medications can be quite toxic. WebMD states over-the-counter meds contain a substance called acetaminophen, which is the main combatant used to soothe headaches. But when mixed with alcohol, the blood system creates a toxin that severely damages the liver, and if you abuse alcohol for a long time, the liver can begin to fail. Wait at least five hours after waking and eating a good meal before you take a pill.

4.) Hot Showers: Fact! Marinating in a hot shower, while letting the full force of the water massage the back of your neck, is great way to relax the muscles that actually adhere to headaches and migraines. Headaches are caused by constricted blood vessels and tense neck muscles.

“Being hung over makes you feel like you are under the weather,” BSU senior art history major Rachel Vannote said. “I think a hot shower could help reinvigorate someone. Wake them up a bit.”

5.) Exercise: Fact! Although this is a bit of a double-edged sword and most likely not the most popular cure, it is effective. Alcohol is a poison that infiltrates the blood stream when too much is added. You don’t have to go and have full-blown, hardcore workout, but it is good to exercise and perspire. Poisons are excreted through sweat. So, next time you wake up from a night of drinking, a nice walk or light jog will do you some good.

6.) Eating Eggs: Fact! There is a non-essential amino acid called cysteine in eggs which counteracts poisonous effects of acetaminophen, a major product in alcohol. If there is an issue figuring out what your stomach can take after a night of heavy drinking, eggs are the best choice. Eggs are light, and whether they are scrambled, sunny-side up, or in an omelet, they can be a tasty way to curb that hangover.

7.) Drink More: Myth! There has been a common misconception that a hangover is the body craving more alcohol, thus, drinking the rest of your margarita or taking a shot to oblige these cravings is the best possible method of recovery. This is not true. Although it will postpone the hangover and possibly take away a migraine, this relief is only temporary. Regularly drinking through a hangover can eventually lead to alcoholism. Stick to water or sports drinks to rehydrate the body and gut out the pain. It’s not worth the future problems alcoholism can bring.

8.) Prevention: Let’s be honest, college drinking will continue to be a reality for many parties and bar-hopping nights to come. But the best way to cure a hangover is to take precautions to prevent it. Eat a hearty meal at least a few hours before drinking. Also, drink water before and throughout the night to keep you hydrated. As cliché as it may sound, drinking must be done responsibly. Be safe, and of course, have a good time as well.

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Dec 13, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment, Sub Feature Tagged

Boiseans speak out about living with HIV

MELANIE BURKE/THE ARBITER

Avert.org reported there are currently an estimated 720 people with HIV in Idaho. It also reported there are about 311 people with full-blown AIDS in the Nampa-Boise area alone.

And now, Boise State students are talking about it.

Allies Linked for the Prevention of HIV and AIDS (ALPHA), a Boise State student club, premiered the documentary film “HIV Idaho” by Jason Evans in the Student Union Building Berguist Lounge Tuesday evening.

Jason Evans has set out to make 50 short documentary films from all 50 states in order to allow communities to connect with uninfected people learning to cope with HIV. The documentary’s main focus was to encourage people to understand the disease and learn how to be supportive for infected loved ones. Idaho was the third state Evans has hit on his journey.

The film highlighted the lives of six Idaho citizens who went from isolation to acceptance of being diagnosed with HIV. After the film, there was a panel question and answer session with some of the participants in the film, including current Boise ALPHA members.

“The film gives a deeper insight into what a person with HIV experiences emotionally as well as spiritually while on the journey of living with HIV,” said Duane Quintana, executive director of ALPHA Boise.

The first case of HIV in Idaho was reported in 1984. Since then, there have been medical advancements regarding medications that help infected patients live long and healthy lives.

Yet, there is still a general stigma and lack of understanding by the public about the disease. Many people don’t understand the emotions and internal struggle that occur in those who have the disease.

“There is a deeper story behind the eyes of every individual,” Quintana said. “But in the end, we are just people trying to survive and live our lives like everyone else.”

The key to combating the rising issue of HIV in the United States is not by turning a blind eye, but rather acting as a support and confidant to people who might be infected with the disease, whether it is a family member, a friend, a spouse or an intimate partner.

“Keeping an open mind and being there to support a loved one is the most important thing someone can do for anyone they know that is infected,” said Kavin Deker, whose partner was a participant in the documentary. “As for those who have never had any contact with HIV, chances are that you know someone or will know someone that has to deal with it in their lives.”

“Living with HIV means learning all that you can to understand the disease,” Quintana said.

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Dec 2, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment, Sub Feature Tagged ,

What to do, what to do: Where can BSU students under 21 go?

CHRIS BECKER/THE ARBITER

For the sake of argument, we will say that the stereotypical college student ponders upon one of two things when the coveted TGIF rings proud and true; “hopefully this weekend isn’t going to go by as fast as the last, and I wonder which party to hit up tonight.” But what about when these feelings begin to be overtaken by a psychological need to fill a void that is only vacant to that of creativity, and a partaking in an experience that breaks the realm of routine? Turns out, Boise has the means to be this filler for the pre-bar, not quite 21-year-old crowd.

“I usually just hang out with friends at their house or go to a party. I don’t really know what of anything else to do especially because I’m not 21,” said sophomore Sierra Mackleprang.

In regard to the Boise nightlife for the college-age demographic, not many know of what it consists for the underage crowd. But for those itching for some good news, there are some places available that promise a good time, without the risky ramifications of having alcohol present.

Joel Turner, a Boise State Alumnus, runs an establishment called Heirloom Dance Studios. It is open Monday through Saturday and provides a chance to all ages to come get their dance on for an affordable price cheaper than going to a movie.

“My dance studio gives an opportunity for those who attend to learn a new hobby, as well as meet some wholesome people,” Turner said.

Heirloom Dance Studios doesn’t just stick to teaching one dance style, with lessons ranging from west coast swing to the Argentine tango, as well as having an improve comedy night on Mondays.

Downtown Boise is also home to the Knitting Factory Concert house, which not only brings in headlining music performances nearly every weekend, but also has a nice showing of local artists set to perform now that the fall has begun; concerts provide an outlet for college students to unwind.

Boise also has a well-endowed scene of leisure and dining, especially for those who like to label themselves a consistent night owl.

“I love the places that are open late into the night that let allow you to sit back and relax, maybe have a bite to eat and a chance to sit and just socialize with friends,” said Danielle Blanker, a student at the College of Idaho.

Boise is wrought with quality hookah bars around the city that offer great opportunities for socializing. Ali’Babas is located on Broadway Blvd. a few minutes from BSU. Although the establishment doesn’t start filling until just before midnight, it still provides a good setting to settle down after a night of shenanigans.

After all is said and done, one might acquire a taste for a late delicacy. Pie Hole, which is open until 3 a.m., is happy to oblige. Although there are many other places that serve customers well into the night, Pie Hole is one of the closest to Boise State campus.

With a variety of places to choose from, perhaps the difficulty in attempting to make a Friday night worthwhile will not be as difficult for a Boise college student, especially with places around that, as Joel Turner so eloquently put it, “support subculture, support hobbyist.”

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Dec 2, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment Tagged

Kristin’s Story: One girl’s death is another’s warning

MITCH ESPLIN/THE ARBITER Andrea Cooper speaks to students on friday on the topics of rape and suicide. She told the story of her daughter Kristin who was a victim of rape and consequently killed herself due to the deep emotional pain caused by it.

Andrea Cooper spoke at the Special Events Center in the Student Union Building Friday about the tragedy of acquaintance rape, depression and suicide. Her daughter, Kristin, was a part of the sorority Alpha Chi Omega and a freshman in college when she decided to take her own life as a direct result of a devastating rape from someone she called a friend.

“Through her own experience, Andrea speaks of the need to be an effective support for a friend or someone that comes to you with such a personal thing as being a victim of any type of sexual assault,” sophomore psychology major and vice president of risk management for Alpha Chi Omega Kenzi Larsen said.

Acquaintance rape is becoming more prevalent and depression often accompanies this for young women who experience this type of situation.

“A majority of rapes don’t happen from the stereotypical sketchy criminal, but from friends and other people that the victim knows,” Cooper said.

Shortly after opening up to her boyfriend about the rape, Kristin Cooper’s boyfriend decided to end the relationship. This eventually lead to Kristin’s spiral into depression and ultimate suicide. Her mother made this a focal point of her speech to BSU students.

“I am not only trying to promote awareness, but I strive to underline the fact that type of issue affects everyone: men, women, old, young, everyone,” Andrea said.

The key to combating the growing phenomena in today’s society is support for the victims of this type of crime.

“After my daughter’s suicide, I set out to help people learn how to be a support for loved ones that open up about being victims. If she would have had the proper support I believe my daughter would still be here today,” Cooper said.

In the audience for this lecture, there were mostly women and a few men scattered here and there. Cooper spoke of the need for young men to understand more about being an avenue of support for a girlfriend, friend, or family member who is a victim of rape.

“I think that young men are afraid that I am going to get up there and spit hateful rhetoric at them for what happened to my daughter. But in actuality, I look for them to look within themselves to discover how to be the best men they can be for the women in their lives,” Andrea said.

The event was presented by Alpha Chi Omega, with strong support from ASBSU and the Student Involvement and Leadership Center.

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Nov 14, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment, Main Feature Tagged ,

New director for Women’s Center takes the reins

Courtesy BSU Women's Center

Jessica Caldwell-O’Keefe, Ph.D. is the new director for the Women’s Center at Boise State.

Caldwell-O’Keefe plans to make the Women’s Center a more definitive and reliable establishment for students to feel comfortable in regards to gender and relationship issues, while she instills her own brand of experience and professionalism.

“My hope for the Women’s Center is that it will be a centralized place for folks to talk about gender-based issues as well as share and learn about diverse perspectives and beliefs in a respectful way,” Caldwell-O’Keefe said.

Caldwell-O’Keefe left her home in California to accept this position. It was a decision she did not take lightly.

“One reason I applied for this position was the mix of students found on this campus, first-generation college students, returning students and the growing number of traditionally-aged students,” Caldwell-O’Keefe said.

On the Women’s Center website, she talks briefly about how she loves working with the students here.

Caldwell-O’Keefe emphasized the way she plans to proceed successfully as the new director. According to their website, the Women’s Center is designed to create an opportunity to talk about what students and staff know, how they came to have this knowledge, why it is important to them and how they can make the world a more just place.

“First and foremost, my goal is to get to know BSU students so I can ensure that the Women’s Center is providing the best possible support,” Caldwell-O’Keefe said.

Many programs supported by the Women’s Center are already in a positive developmental growth, such as the LGBTQIA Lounge and the Tunnel of Oppression. The LGBTQIA’s (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersexed, and Allies) new lounge space is supported by the Women’s Center as a space where students and staff can gather and learn about LGBTQIA and promote diversity. The Tunnel of Oppression leads students through an interactive art display to demonstrate the fallacies and hardships of living life as a minority.

“We are working to strengthen already-existing programs,” Caldwell-O’Keefe said.

Caldwell-O’Keefe completed her master’s degree in theater production at Humboldt University, then received her Ph.D. in theater and feminist studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

She also accentuated a fundamental root of the Women’s Center, which is stressing advocacy and support for students of any gender who have experienced gender violence, as well as any other form of oppression.

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Nov 4, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment, Sub Feature Tagged ,

The soul mate debate: The gent’s side

INTRODUCTION
The topic of soul mates has been widely debated for years. Do they exist? Do we have more than one? How do you know if someone is your soul mate? Opinions vary from male to female, person to person, culture to culture. The spectrum ranges from hopeless romantic to bitter cynic, with a wide middle ground for people on the fence. However, the question still remains: What exactly is a soul mate, and do they exist?

Through the progressive passing of generations, the concept of eternal love and more specifically the idea of soul mates, have increasingly fallen into the realm of cynicism. The fear of becoming broken hearted, with admiration of love and loyalty to a significant other often lead people away from their inner hopeless romantic.

Yet, possibly finding this fleeting soul mate remains in this generation. The hope that cynicism could be proven wrong still lingers in hearts and minds.

A negative experience in turn leads to a self-protective element in the human psyche.

“I think every cynic was once a romantic, in fact, I think every cynic is a closet romantic,” senior English education major Thomas Atkins said.

Despite the evolution of love and finding a soul mate becoming a more unaccepted phenomenon for many, especially those who have had negative romantic experiences there is a sense of vulnerability of allowing oneself is kept afloat by the fear of being alone.

“I don’t think anyone would ever say no to the idea of finding their soul mate if it were as simple as pointing them out,” said Jordan Lockard, a sophomore majoring in psychology with an emphasis in secondary education.

Views and opinions are defined by the way an individual chooses to react to an experience or situation.

“Most people in college are just looking to meet and date different people so that they can know exactly what they are looking for,” Lockhard said. “But that’s also the problem, most people never really quite figure out what they want.”

Connecting emotionally, intellectually, spiritually and physically to another is innately human. The term “soul mate” may be broad and open to individual interpretation but it is the possibility of finding it that prompts human beings to continue to seek it out.

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Oct 28, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment, Main Feature Tagged

Breastival to showcase tatas Tuesday

The Women’s Center, in collaboration with the Wellness Center and the Susan G. Komen Foundation, will be hosting its Breastival event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Quad Tuesday.

Breastival will highlight general facts and information about breast cancer and breast cancer detection in correlation with Breast Cancer Awareness month.

The event will feature giveaways and games for the crowd to enjoy while answering any questions the student body might have regarding breast cancer.

One Breastival game students can play on the Quad Meyer called Find the Lump. Descriptions of breast cancer detection portray a small lump that feels like a frozen pea or Skittle. So in accordance with this fact, Skittles and other prizes will be given out to students who can “find the lump.”

Organizations involved with Breastival hope to influence students to wear pink along with the traditional blue and orange while attending the upcoming Boise State football game against LA Tech.

“We are hoping to get the student body to do a black out, except with pink,” Alana Meyer, program coordinator for the Women’s Center, said.

As a way to further promote awareness, The Susan G. Komen Foundation will have breast cancer survivors run onto the field at halftime in order to illuminate the triumph and hope of surviving breast cancer.

“It should be an amazing and heartwarming spectacle when the survivors storm the field,” said Meyer.

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Oct 25, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment, Sub Feature Tagged ,

Bullet For My Valentine prepares to blow mind and eardrums

Heavy metal core Welsh band Bullet for My Valentine will perform at the Knitting Factory Concert House Monday, Oct. 25., bringing a sharp and technically high energy metal performance.

Alongside the opening bands Drive A, Black Tide, and fan favorite Escape the Fate, Bullet For My Valentine will highlight the thrash metal emo-based genre with high speed guitar solos and thundering controlled instrumentals.

The performance is set to provide an emotionally-clad beginning to the school week with Bullet For My Valentine playing songs from their hit albums: The Poison, Scream Aim Fire, as well as the newly released album Fever. Bringing together a taste of past and present songs, hoping to satisfy the musical appetites of die hard metal heads, as well as fans just seeking to see a good show.

Their music is geared toward young pre- and post-adolescent demographic, with hard rock influences from Metallica, Pantera, Megadeth, and Judas Priest. Bullet for my Valentine is set to attract a crowd of all ages with rock that combines the old and modern styles of rock.

General admission for the show starts at $26 a person, and VIP admission is $55. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the show starting at 7 p.m.

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Oct 24, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment Tagged

Summit on domestic violence, health raises awareness

The Idaho Coalition Against Sexual & Domestic Violence (ICASDV) partnered with Idaho Partners Against Domestic Violence to host the annual “Summit on Domestic Violence and Health” at the Boise Centre at the Grove Wednesday night. The premise behind the summit was to raise awareness concerning the national issue of domestic violence and health management on a local level.

“(The event was) a way to promote prevention and response, training, skill building and risk assessment regarding the issues of not only domestic violence, but other forms of health risks associated with being in potentially physically or mentally damaging situations,” said Kelly Miller, executive director of ICASDV.

The summit lasted throughout the day from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with hour-to-hour seminars, speakers and stands set up by varying health organizations in order to aid the promotion of awareness to Boise citizens.

Lisa Bostaph, Ph.D., a criminal justice professor at BSU, was a keynote speaker at the event. The topic of her speech was risk assessment of dangerous and domestic violence.

The underlined theme of the summit was not only the promotion of domestic violence and health, but making the connection between the two. The key to positively engaging the issues of domestic violence and health are not only pertinent on a national level, but start at the local level.

Larry Cohen, executive director of the Prevention Institute out of Oakland, Calif., was also a keynote speaker at the event.

“Every locality has to shape things in their own way,” he said.

Awareness of the fundamental rights of every individual to have healthy relationships provides the core of the “Summit on Domestic Violence and Health” to keep the public in sight of the “changing norms of violence,” according to Cohen.

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Oct 21, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment, Sub Feature

Beyond the burqa: Muslim women talk Islamic fashion

NIK BJURSTROM/THE ARBITER

Fashion Show Women of Islam kicked off the start of Islamic Awareness Week this Monday in the Simplot Room of the Student Union Building and featured a panel discussion. The event was hosted by the Muslim Students Association, highlighting traditional attire worn by Islamic woman in correlation with Muslim practices.

The show began with a short introduction of Muslim women’s traditional attire, the burqa. A burqa is a long garment covering the woman’s body from the neck to the wrists and ankles, and the piece of clothing which covers the woman’s head is called the hijab. Members of MSA said covering the face is an option women may choose to exercise or not. The interpretation of the face cover requirement often varies from country to country.

After the brief fashion exposé, Marisa Kaali, a Muslim convert, and Huma Ali, a native Pakistani, lead a panel discussion regarding the Quran and women’s role in Islamic society.

“Regarding the interaction between man and woman, the Quran cherishes the values of modesty,” Kaali said during the panel discussion

Panel members said the Quran is sometimes misinterpreted. Some people think it exemplifies the dominance of a perceived cultural patriarchy.

Modesty is not meant to degrade women, but preserves the sacred bond of marriage between a man and woman, the panelists said.

“The Quran tells us to cover our head, body and shape, to embody the idea that men and women can be viewed as people, while not being objectified,” Kaali said.

The discussion broke down a few of the fallacies concerning Islam, such as fundamentalism, Americans’ perception, as well as supposed permission from the Quran to impose hatred upon “infidels.”

“The differences that have come to be in the Islamic world permitting inferiority of women, and a mistreatment of women are purely political, and entirely unacceptable according to the Quran,” Kaali said.

MSA panel members recognized Islam was a revolutionary idea at its inception, however, it is difficult to understand how some of the ideas closely associated to Islam in Americans’ eyes are incorrect in reference to the thoughts the Prophet Mohammad stated.

Huma Ali, a BSU graduate student also receiving questions in the panel discussion, directly addressed this.

“The Prophet Mohammad’s idea of Islam was so revolutionary in regards to women because he spoke positively of women’s right to education, to marry whom they choose, a woman’s right to participate in business and to use the money earned as her own,” Ali said.

The panel discussion was a stepping stone used, as Ali said, “to paint a true picture of Islam.”

Zahir Nadery, a senior political science major, said the misinterpretation of Islam “is an utter fabrication presented by the media from around the world as a false truth.”

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Oct 21, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment, Main Feature Tagged ,

An evening with Anberlin

Anberlin is an American alternative rock band from Winter Haven, Florida, formed in 2002. Since the beginning of 2007, the band has consisted of lead vocalist Stephen Christian, bassist Deon Rexroat, lead guitarist Joseph Milligan, drummer Nathan Young and rhythm guitarist Christian McAlhaney. /CUTLINE AND PHOTO COURTESY ANBERLIN'S OFFICIAL FACEBOOK PAGE

Adult alternative band Anberlin lit up the Knitting Factory Concert House with a high energy show Wednesday. The show featured a well-transitioned playlist with music old and new. From the positive aura and anticipation filling the air around the crowd, the high school to 30-year-old crowd embraced the excitement for the impending performance.

Along with opening bands Civil Twilight — a trio from South Africa — and the Los Angeles-based band Crash Kings, Anberlin came to peak the October night with creative light shows and heartfelt poetically charged music.

Zoey Morrison, a young lady just out of high school, said, “I’ve been a big fan for a long time, they just have this uniqueness to their music.”

This seemed to be the general consensus and mindset toward the expressive freedom portrayed in the performance by Anberlin.

It was the type of show that brought people together with music that encapsulated fun as well as lyrical depth. Everyone from the young adolescent to the business man just trying to unwind from a midweek day of work and stress, took with the great enthusiasm the performance of Anberlin. From left to right drinks were raised, and songs were sung along to as Stephen Christensen, lead singer of Anberlin, hypnotized the audience with his soulful voice and endless energy.

Brandon Suez, a sophomore Boise High School student, said, “I had never heard of Anberlin before tonight, I just came to take my cousin out for his birthday. But after hearing them and watching them perform I am definitely a fan now.” Turns out everyone needs a break in the middle of the week to recharge motivation, raise spirits, and enjoy good company, Anberlin did just that.

“Coming to concerts is one of my best ways I have to take my mind off school and such,” Rick Roberson, a BSU sophomore civil engineering student, said.

Anberlin has had a consistent showing throughout the years in Boise, and plan to continue to do so for many years to come. Giving a future chance for those who have not seen them perform, to come and experience the creative volatility of their performance.

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Oct 14, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment, Main Feature

Boise Philharmonic appeals to students, too

NIK BJURSTROM/THE ARBITER

The Boise Philharmonic Orchestra began its season with “Autumn Romance” at the beginning of the month at the Morrison Center. The performance features music by classical composers Strauss, Liszt and Tchaikovsky, and featured internationally-acclaimed pianist William Wolfram.

Guests came in their best evening-wear with a whirl of fine pressed suits for the gentleman and elegant dresses for the ladies, as social mingling and anticipation for the pending performance dominated conversation. Only one thing was missing from the cheery scene of refreshments and interaction: youth.

The only remnants of the college demographic that lingered were those at the door, taking tickets for the baby boomer generation. Which poses the question: What is it about the genre that turns off college aged youth to the idea of coming to listen to music written by classical musicians? As Tina Kierce, director of marketing and sales for the Boise Philharmonic, said, “Classical musicians were the rock stars of their time.”

As generations pass, affection and appreciation for classical music have become something equivocated to a dwindling past and rapidly occurring present. Music Director of the Boise Philharmonic Orchestra Robert Franz attributed this phenomenon to the idea that, “there is a perception that classical music is for the elitist or someone who is of a higher status.”

This would refer to the socioeconomic status of the audience and the overwhelming generational gap between the work savvy professional middle-aged demographic and that of the Ramen Noodle-eating college student. With ticket prices that may be a bit too hefty for the college student — even with discounted prices for full-time students — what is the defining element that could break down these generational barriers and inspire students to seek to understand the foundations of music?

It begins with the very students who are not taking the time to dishevel a conscious and unconscious ignorance of what classical music really is all about.

“Classical music requires active listening, curiosity and desire to search for the story that is expressed through the music,” Franz said. “The key is for the audience to become a part of the story.”

Music is often referred to as a universal language and it is through the interpretation of this language and effort to explore its meaning that the college student can relate the story being expressed to his or her own life. Whether it be the “modern” music listened to now or what was considered “modern” back when names like Beethoven, Mozart and Brahms defined music, each musician who creates and performs music is telling a story through the creation of a type of musical literature in every symphony or composition.

Music is music, and behind the music is a story that defies the gap between young and old, performer and audience.

“Some of our musicians are recording artists, soloists and international students,” Kierce said.

Be it classical or modern, music is the representation of all walks of life. The goal of the Boise Philharmonic is to express this in its shows while also keeping it fresh, as Kierce described.

“The audience is part of the story,” Franz said.

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Oct 14, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment, Sub Feature Tagged ,

Anberlin to rock Boise this week

COURTESY OUTSIDERVOCALS.COM/ Members of Anberlin: Stephen Christian: Vocals, Joseph Milligan: Lead guitar, Devon Rexroat: Bass, Christian McAlhaney: Rhythm guitar, Nathan Young: Drums. All photos, music, and videos copyright of their respective owners. Used only for promotional purposes and to gain notoriety for the artists featured.

On Wednesday Oct. 13, American alternative band Anberlin will be headlining a midweek show at the Knitting Factory Concert House alongside Crash Kings and Civil Twilight. They have been around since the late ’90s and have grown to considerable popularity among the college-age demographic. Their playlist will consist of mostly new music from their newly released “Dark is the Way, Light is the Place” album which came out late June of this year, as well as their 2009 release of the album, “New Surrender.”

Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show will begin at 8 p.m.; general admission is $18, with VIP prices averaging $40 each.

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Oct 11, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment

The Blood Brigade: American Red Cross holds monthly blood drives

The American Red Cross held its monthly blood drive at the Student Union Building in the Hatch Ballroom in order to provide our region’s hospitals with donations. The donations will be used in emergency rooms and blood transfusions.

The blood drive is done once a month and is widely advertised throughout campus. Students are encouraged to donate. Side effects from donating blood are commonly dizziness or loss of strength. The American Red Cross recommends students planning on donating eat a healthy meal before and after donating, along with drinking plenty of non-alcoholic liquids.

“It’s accessible and an opportunity to give back and be a difference in someone’s life,” said Lori Bethancourt, an American Red Cross worker who attended this month’s blood drive.

“Plus, we have free cookies,” she added with a grin.

If donations are not used in emergency rooms within seven days post donation, the blood is put on ice and stays good for an estimated 42 days, according to the Red Cross. Originally, donations were only good for about 21 days, but the number grew because of a special preservative that is added, which has no adverse effects on the donation itself.

Campus response to the blood drive has been positive with attendance on the rise as students are becoming more relaxed about donating.

“It’s a matter of time and knowing where to go, and I feel that the consistent showing by the Red Cross, along with easy-to-find venues, has made students feel more at ease donating,” said Erin Salisbury, a junior majoring in pre-physical therapy.

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Sep 26, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment, Sub Feature Tagged ,

Benefit concert for breast cancer to fund research

GLENN LANDBERG/THE ARBITER

Humpin’ Hannah’s on Main Street in downtown Boise will host an event for the Boise affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure Thursday. The event will feature Nashville recording artist Susan G. Komen herself and two local up-and-coming artists Rebecca Sorrels and Rebecca Scott. The event is set to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month for October. All proceeds from the concert will be donated to institutions dedicated to researching a cure for breast cancer. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the event starts at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $20 a guest, $60 for VIP seating. It is open to the public ages 18 and over.

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Sep 20, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment Tagged ,

‘Contemporary Judaica’ displayed at Visual Arts Center

MELANIE BURKE/THE ARBITER Artist Anika Smulovitz with her piece "Even though I walk through the valley..."

While some might consider the cultural attributes of art to be a vastly different entity from religion, others use societal phenomena as a medium of creativity. Anika Smulovitz, professor of art metals at Boise State University, seeks to illuminate the yin-yang effect of religion and art.

The artwork, titled “Contemporary Judaica,” is named for its modern approach to Judaica, which is any philosophy or material pertaining to Judaism.

According to a VAC press release, Smulovitz’s work is described as “confronting power, beauty, religion and cultural value, while bringing insight to the discourse between material culture and contemporary society.”

“Creating contemporary Judaica allows me to examine contemporary issues through the Jewish tradition,” Smulovitz said in press release.

The emphasis on the cultural value of this display sparked the intrigue of students.

“I like it because it is not so much religion but cultural,” Julia Green, a senior illustration major said. “I like the idea of ritual and putting her own work to ritual.”

The display seeks to exemplify cohesion between ritual and craftsmanship, resulting in a final product that has religious influence. These things together — used not to convey a religious message, but of rather a use of religious context — establish correlation between culture and art, the artist said.

“It is not a religious interest that draws me towards making Judaica, but a cultural interest and an interest as a silversmith in creating work that has a ritual function,” Smulovitz said in a biography about her life.

The Visual Arts Center (VAC) at Boise State will be displaying the Judaica artwork Aug. 30 to Oct. 22. The work will allow the student body a chance to delve into the world of culture through imagination and religion while being presented a neutral perspective of the concepts.

Boise State students can see for themselves what they take from the art of Anika Smulovitz, and ultimately come to their own conclusions as to how they feel about the concepts implied and depicted within her art.

FACTBOX: YELLOW/GOLDEN

Contemporary Judacia art gallery

  • When: Aug. 30 to Oct. 22
  • Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; noon to 5 p.m. Saturday
  • Where: Gallery One, Visual Arts Center in Liberal Arts Building
  • Cost: Free

FACTBOX: LIGHT PURPLE

Come to Anika Smulovitz’s Opening Reception

  • When: Oct. 7
  • Time: 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
  • Where: Gallery One, Visual Arts Center in Liberal Arts Building
  • Cost: Free
  • Free parking available in the Liberal Arts parking lot for the exhibition reception and special lecture.

Special guest speaker Daniel Belasco, associate curator for The Jewish Museum in New York to present

  • When: Oct. 7
  • Time: 7 p.m.
  • Where: Hatch B in the Student Union Building
  • Cost: Free

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Sep 16, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment, Main Feature Tagged

Alive After Five dies, for now

Drew Preiner, singer and guitarist for Roster McCabe, belts out a song at the Alive After Five finale Wednesday.

Boise’s summer social hot spot, Alive After Five, came to its season’s conclusion Sept. 5.

Every Wednesday throughout the summer, continuing through early August in the center of The Grove, local and national musicians come out for a night of music and festivities. There is a broad range of musicians who perform for this occasion, highlighted best by Chad Dryden, the marketing and promotions director for the Boise Record Exchange.

“It is a nice mixture of the known and the unknown,” he said. “It is a good way to get exposed to the new bands and talent that come from all walks of life in order to have the opportunity to have their music heard.”

Through the chatter of youth and elderly, with spontaneous dancing and embracing, the mixture of the enjoyment of company and music ignited much of the smiles in the crowd.

“It’s been great,” Jeff Peterson, drummer for Roster McCabe, said. “We love Boise, first of all, as well as seeing the mixture of both the younger and older generation enjoying our music.”

Accompanying the vibrancy of the aura presented by the loud hum of people and music was a large number of Boise State students sporting the respected orange and blue.

“Our first gig as a group was actually at BSU in the Student Union Building,” Soul Serene guitarist Ryan Shaw said. “The students bring such a great atmosphere and have continued to do so tonight.”

Now that this year’s festivities have ended, Boise residents will have to wait until next summer to enjoy the musical endowments presented by Alive After Five, and to ingest the summer tradition of some tunes, refreshments and companionship.

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Sep 13, 2010 Posted by In Arts & Entertainment, Main Feature Tagged
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