African Religious Leaders Discuss Religion Equality at UVU

Religious leaders from Africa met on Monday, April 23rd with UVU officials and interfaith leaders to discuss UVU’s new Reflection Center, the Interfaith Student Association and ways to develop respect for other faiths.

Ghana, Zimbabwe, and Kenya were among the eight provinces from Africa that engaged in the dialogue. The group was part of the State Department's International Visitor Leadership Program, they decided to come to UVU as part of their 21-day project to learn about religious freedoms in the United States.

“It’s such a neat experience, I never thought this would happen,” said Linda Walton, Co-Chair of the Interfaith Student Association. Walton further explained that they have met with Canadians and Syrians in the past, however this was their first time meeting with South Africans.

According to Walton, the interfaith ambassadors are trying to find ways to dissolve hatred in their provinces. “We’re hoping to encourage them, hopefully we can give them hope that it can be done,” said Walton.

Brian Birch, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, presented UVU’s new Reflection Center which will be completed within the next 2 years. The new center will feature a prayer room, mediation room, and convening room, open to all religions on campus.

“We’re very interested in reaching out to make sure that every student, and every faculty member, and every member of our staff feels welcome and comfortable,” said Birch.

Birch also explained that UVU plans to develop an Interfaith Student Council, which will convene various religious clubs that can come together and work with one another.

“Our theme for the Interfaith Student Association, is moving from tolerance to love,” said Walton. “We want to do everything we can to educate people.”

Mr. Nurudeen ALHASSAN, President of the Ghana Muslim Academy, asked student representative, Daniel Colver, what his biggest challenge was as a student.

Colver responded that he was disappointed with the bigotry that he saw around him and how it motivates him to get involved. He explained that it is crucial for others to step out of their comfort zones.

The discussion ended with handshakes and smiles, as the ambassadors and school representatives exchanged contact information. The religious leaders asked to take a photo with those present to remember their experience with at UVU.

Animal Care Facility Faces Scrutiny

Courtesy of symptomsofwormsinadog.com

The animal care facility in the new science building on UVU's campus is under the microscope. The facility contains two holding rooms, a procedure room, and is a portal for future animal research at UVU. I was given a tour of the room and given details about projects that are in the near future for the facility.

The animal care facility will give students better educational opportunities and could help UVU get grants for research. However, there are some who are concerned about the possible lack of transparency and the mistreatment of animals.

“First of all, that building is going to be there for the next 50-75 years,” said Mark Bracken, department chair of the Biology department. He explained that they do not plan on using the room for animal research right now or anytime soon. “We are anticipating that in some point of time that there may be some animal research that does occur,” said Bracken.

Bracken explained that UVU is a school that has evolved rather quickly in the past 15 years. He also explained the school does not have big enough facilities to do research and if they did do any, it would be very limited. He explained that in the years to come the goals of the university could change to doing research and getting grants

The anticipation of future animal research at UVU has raised concerns. “The problem is, it’s too much of a temptation for science departments to start testing on animals” said Karen Mizell, associate chair of the Philosophy department.

Mizell explained that if the science department were to consider doing animal testing in the future, they would have to put together an animal care review committee and currently, UVU does not have one. “I’ve had real concerns. Even if people right now aren’t going to do it, someone is going to come in and want to do it,” said Mizell.

“Between Hollywood and a lack of information, sometimes an impression people have is that animals are not treated as humanely as we could possibly do it and I do not agree with that,” said Dr. Heather Wilson, an associate professor of the Biology department. Dr. Wilson explained before she became a scientist that she was against animal research. She mentioned when she has done research at different schools in the past, every effort was made to ensure the animals were being treated properly.

According to Dr. Wilson, most of her students currently do their labs on a computer. However, the new animal care facility would give students the opportunity to work with animals. Dr. Wilson said her students were excited to hear about the new facility.

Courtesy of telegraph.co.uk

Chris Foster, a philosophy professor on campus said he is not in favor of animal research however, he is in favor of transparency about any actions taken in the animal care facility, “I’d be a lot happier,” he said. Foster suggested that cameras be put in the labs and that inspections should be on a regular basis.

“I love my university, but, I hope that doesn’t mean that we turn to the way of others universities in terms of researching on non-human animals,” said Foster. “I hope to remain proud of my university as an ethics centered school.”

Dr. Virginia Bayer, assistant professor of Biology, gave me a tour of the animal care facility and explained several projects they are considering in the near future.

“We have some animals that we’d like to do some breeding projects on to try to increase their numbers,” said Dr. Bayer. She explained they are trying to help animals that are endangered. The Blue Eyed Blonde California King Snake and the Standing’s Day gecko, are some of the reptiles the department plans to help breed.

“The goal of the facility is to increase awareness about conservation efforts,” said Dr. Bayer. Dr. Bayer explained they plan to use the room to showcase animals that are endangered and to discuss issues as to why they have become endangered, and things that they can do to help the animals.

“UVU is predominately a teaching institution, so we are not a tier one research institution. Research capabilities at this point are essentially non-existent when it comes to animal research,” said Dr. Bayer. “The only thing anyone could get upset with, are the animals being housed incorrectly. As far as anyone is concerned for animal welfare, I think we are meeting all the needs for that.”

Emergency Services Turns Up the Heat!

Photo courtesy of sunews.net

The Institute of Emergency Services and Homeland Security turned up the heat this week to raise awareness on emergency preparedness and disaster response. This week on campus was emergency service week, each day featured different presentations from the law enforcement, fire and rescue service members, and emergency management personnel.

Emergency service week was held to help build anticipation and excitement for a two-day emergency preparedness and disaster response conference on April 5th and 6th in the Sorensen Student Center on UVU campus.

This is the first time that the Institute of Emergency Services and Homeland Security have held such an event on campus for students. “Our primary audience was our students,” said Dr. Fisher, organizer of the event, and faculty member in the emergency services bachelor’s program. “If we were to do it for the Orem-Provo communities the approach may be completely different.”

The conference will feature keynote speakers who will offer their variety of knowledge with emergency preparedness and disaster relief. From former FBI members, to psychologists, policemen, and firefighters, the conference will be well equipped with those ready to share their stories with their attendees.

Students specifically from the criminal justice and the Institute of the Emergency Services and Homeland Security are invited to attend the conference to hone their expertise. These departments on campus are bursting at the seams with students. Dr. Fisher mentioned that the emergency services program alone has over 1600 students.

Dr. Fisher also said that they are further developing their program as well, and that they are currently designing a course on community-family preparedness.

When asked how students should cope with stress in disaster Fisher responded, “The most important thing is to realize that there is a possiblity [of a disaster] and to be prepared.” He recommended that students should have 72-hour kits. “A lot of people go through the exercise of this but over several months, it’s spread all over the house,” said Fisher.

Some of the major concerns of disasters in Utah are, earthquakes, floods, landslides, and heavy snowfall. “We may be overdue for an earthquake,” said Fisher.

On April 17th, Utah will participate in, The Great Utah ShakeOut. This event is the largest earthquake drill in Utah history. The goal of the ShakeOut is to promote Utahns to be prepared for major earthquakes.

For emergency preparedness and disaster response suggestions, students are encouraged go to bereadyutah.gov.


CONFERENCE SCHEDULE:

THURSDAY, APRIL 5

10-11 a.m. Keynote Address, Dr. Mark Yang, “Spiritual and Existential Themes in Disaster Relief Work.” Introduced by Dr. Rodger Broome.

11:10-12 noon – Presentation: “Hero Construct,” Dr. Rodger Broome, Emergency Services Department.

1-1:50 p.m. – Presentation: “Terrorism Realities in America,” Ken Crook, JD, Criminal Justice faculty. Introduction by Eric Russell.

2- 2:50 p.m. – Presentation: “The LEAP Model of Leadership,” Dr. Jeff Maxfield, associate dean of the College of Technology & Computing.

FRIDAY, APRIL 6

10-11 a.m. Keynote Address, Dr. David McEntire, “Disasters & 2012: Modern Myth or Future Reality?” Introduction by Dr. John Fisher.

11:10-12 noon – Presentation: “Extreme Interrogation Methods,” Matt Duffin, JD, Criminal Justice Department; “Mass Media Coverage of Disasters: Help or Hindrance?” Dr. John Fisher, Emergency Services Department.

1-1:50 p.m. – Presentation: “What We Have Here Is a Failure to Communicate,” Gary Noll, chair of Emergency Services Department; “Leadership and Chaos,” Andy Byrnes, Emergency Services Department.

Modernized Ugly Duckling Teaches Children About Bullying

Elementary and middle school students throughout Utah County are benefiting greatly from morals taught in UVU’s production of the children musical, “Honk!” The show is performed by UVU’s Black Box Repertory Company and tells the story of the Ugly Duckling.

The BBRC has brought their productions to schools in the local area for the past two years. Last year their emphasis was on the tragedy of suicide, this year their emphasis is on the fatalities of bullying and teasing.

“We wanted to find a piece that’s entertaining, fun, offers challenges for musical theatre students, and deals with the issues of bullying,” said John Newman, producer of the show.

So far, the group has gone to two elementary schools, two middle schools, and are also having a private school come to UVU to see the production. Newman further explained that they continue to receive calls from schools asking them to come and perform their show.

Director, Dave Tinney described the show as, a very well disguised parable. “It’s having an amazing effect so far,” said Tinney. “Teachers are really appreciative and kids are getting it. We have a full schedule for the rest of the semester.”

When HONK! is performed at schools, teachers are offered study guides to spark class discussion with students about the different scenarios in the show and how students should respond to bullying.

The show has added modern touches so they can better demonstrate forms of bullying to students. For example, a scene in the production shows ducks teasing the ugly duckling by pulling out their cell phones and taking pictures and sending text messages about him.

“This is one of the things happening in the schools, they are cyber bullying each other,” says Newman.

The Costumes for each of the characters also play a huge role in the production.

“The frogs are like go-go girls in green dresses and the chicks are like Dorothy and Little Bo-Peep,” said Annette Goodrich, a costume stitcher for the theatre department. “They have certain elements so they are supposed to look slightly animalish, but are still people.”

When asked which character was her favorite, Goodrich proudly held up a black leather jacket lined with curly soft fur, “The cat is one of my favorites. He’s got leather and a little bit of fur, he’s the bad kitty.”

HONK! is a great show for families, everyone can relate to different scenarios in the performance. “We all at some point feel like we’re an ugly duckling, it takes us awhile to kind of find our place,” said Newman.

The show will be available to the public for two days only on April 11th and April 13th at 1pm, for $3 dollars a ticket. To purchase tickets, contact the Noorda Box Office.

Wolverine Minute, April 4th

Skate for Jeremiah – Skate for Jeremiah is a charity event that will take place April 6th at Classic Skating in Orem to raise funds for Jeremiah Drennen’s medical expenses for his muscular dystrophy. The cost is $6 dollars at the door, and goes from 9-12pm
Clothesline Project – Today is the last day for the clothesline project. Students are invited to come and view shirts in the grande ballroom that have been created by survivors of abuse, or can create a shirt of their own.
UVU Plans to Expand Day Care Center – UVU is planning to expand the Wee Care Center to accommodate more children for students. Currently, the center can only serve 100 children. The proposal of the new building would accommodate to 450 children.

Baby Care Cupboard Tests Generosity of Utah County

Over 55 volunteers dispersed themselves throughout Utah County at four Smith’s Grocery store locations for UVU’s Applied Behavioral Science Club’s, Baby Care Cupboard.

Volunteers stood at the entrances of stores next to a large banner which proudly displayed their motto, “Save the World! One Small Tummy at a Time,” and were equipped with candy and fliers as they informed shoppers of the dire need for baby items at their local food bank.

“I am so grateful to the many people and programs that helped me and my children,” explained Jennifer Brown, a volunteer supervisor for the Baby Care Cupboard as to why she wanted to help with the event. “I was in the womens shelter last year with my two small children. I am in a much better place, I have secured safe housing and I was wanting to give back.”

“There are a lot of people in organizations that do food drives, but they don’t gather baby items,” says Julie Nance, director of the event. “This hits home to me because I have been a single mom for several years and I know how expensive it can be.”



The food bank manager expressed that donations do not stay put for long on their shelves. “He said they last about six weeks, and I was shocked,” says Nance.

Last fall, the Baby Care Cupboard received $7,000 dollars in donations. This semester, after a day of gathering donations, the items collected weighed in at 2,537 pounds. The group proudly reached their goal of $8,000.

Nance sent out an email with the results to the volunteers and expressed her gratitude to those involved. Baby Care Cupboards next event will be this coming fall. If you would like to volunteer or assist with the Baby Care Cupboard, contact the UVU Applied Behavioral Science Club.

Photo 1: Julie Nance, Director of Baby Care Cupboard with Kelsee
Photo 2: Julie Nance, Director of Baby Care Cupboard
Photo 3: Volunteers filling the crates to the top with donated items
Photo 4: Jim Thomas, food bank manager, bringing the items into the foodbank

Wolverine Minute, March 28th

The Clothesline Project will be featured in the UVU Grand Ballroom on April 3rd and 4th to raise awareness one violence. Blank shirts will be available for students to share their personal stories of abuse. If you would like to volunteer to help with this project, contact the Equity in Education Center.
UVUSA is accepting applications for Student Government. Applications are due in room SC105 on March 30th by 4 PM.
Each day, students can volunteer their time to pitch in to UVU's UVolunteer Week. Tonight, students can donate blood in the ballroom, tomorrow they can attend Stop Kony, and Friday, students can volunteer for Dan Peterson School's Field Day in American Fork.

Wolverine Minute, March 21st

Unpaid library fines can be waived by donating books through the First Book Utah County Program. Students can donate to the UVU Bookstore from March 15th-April 30th. Contact the library for more information.
The Religious Studies program at UVU will be presenting a Mormon Studies Conference on March 29th and 30th about Mormonism and the internet. The conference will discuss how the internet has influenced Mormon culture, history, and growth.
Festival of Colors is this weekend at the Kare Krishna temple in Spanish Fork. Last year, the festival had over 50,000 participants. Each bag of color is $2 with an entrance fee of $2.

Spring Break With My Favorite Person

For my journalism class we were asked to put together a 3-minute video that included audio, videos, and photos of our Spring Break. I got frustrated because I had a difficult time using iMovie, however--it turned out a lot better than expected!

What is the Wolverine Minute?

The Wolverine Minute:

Not many of you may know what The Wolverine Minute is--however, the name is self explanatory.
The Wolverine Minute is a compilation of the top stories and upcoming events on campus in 60 seconds or less.

The reason we work hard to put together The Wolverine Minute is because this podcast is ultimately made for you, OUR LISTENERS.. and right now, we have about an average of 15-20 listeners per podcast.

The team of Parker Donat, Jason Knoell, and I all work hard on this podcast. We meet together once a week, brainstorm, script write, record, and edit. We have been doing The Wolverine Minute since November, and the lack of awareness of this podcast has been a bit unsettling.

I would LOVE to improve this podcast and take feedback. I would love to generate ideas and stories that students would like to hear about. As a journalist we work for the people..so this podcast truly is ALL ABOUT YOU.

Recently, Jason tried a new edit with our podcast.. I'd like you to listen to the two, and comment on here which one you like better.

This Weeks Podcast


Last Weeks Podcast


Which one do you like?


Thanks for the support!

Emily Nicoline

The Facebook Booty Call

The night grows late, as you are alone snuggled up to your iphone. You are logged onto your Facebook page and notice you have just received a message.


The message reads, “What are you doing, want to meet up?” If this has happened to you, you can now officially say, you are a victim of a Facebook booty call.

A Facebook booty call, is when someone flirts or hits on you via-Facebook. According to an online study conducted by the UK, one out of every three divorces are because of Facebook. Whether or not you are in a relationship, it is important to avoid a can of worms being released by your own Facebook predators. Your own personal well being can be saved by detoxing your friends list, being a prude, and openly communicating.

I know it can be tempting to want to outlast and ‘outfriend’ everyone on Facebook. However, every few months have a Facebook genocide and give your friends list an extensive detox. When clearing your friends list be sure to use the three month rule. If you have not spoken with them in the past three months, or do not plan to speak to them in the next three months delete them.

Be a prude online and don’t be a Facebook tease. Avoid taking promiscuous photos of yourself, or being friends with those that proudly post risque photos. This includes, girls with cleavage in raunchy outfits, and boys that stand in front of mirror with their shirts off. Also, avoid overcrowding and commenting someone’s posts if you are not interested in them. It is very easy for a friend to confuse innocent socializing with flirting.

Don’t allow yourself to be Facebook Booty Called. Be clear for what you will and will not stand for. If in a relationship, have an open door policy and discuss with your partner what your expectations are for their behavior on social media. Next time you hit up the world wide web, remember, Facebook responsibly.

Wolverine Minute, January 31st

Wolverine Minute, January 18th

I apologize for not writing as often/posting articles on here consistently. I always have story ideas of topics that I want to work on, it's just difficult trying to do all of this with work and school on the side. Enjoy!

Wolverine Minute - Jan 18 by UVU Review

Intimate Relationships Between Students and Teachers Happen by Emily Stephenson

Courtesy of antoinemccoy.com

Nationwide news is overrun with stories of college sex scandals. The University of Oklahoma for example, had a professor charged with sexual abuse. Also, a former counselor from a military college in South Carolina, was charged for molesting children. These crimes refer to cases involving children under age 18; however, situations such as a student trying to have an intimate relationship with a teacher or a teacher trying to have an intimate relationship with a student occur with those over age 18, and can possibly become a crime of its own.

At UVU, a student was trying to have a relationship with their current professor. The student would bring the teacher gifts, would go to the professor's office, and would even call the professor's home and would talk to his wife in attempts to reach him. The teacher immediately reported this situation to his department chair. After the school reviewed the situation, the student was suspended however, what if the teacher would have allowed an intimate relationship with the student?

When asked about whether or not UVU has had problems with student-teacher relationships in the past and how they were dealt with, Mark Wiesenberg, Director of Humans Resources at UVU responded, "Most of those issues when they are dealt with are not public knowledge, employee discipline is traditionally private." He further explained that he could not tell me how the university would respond to the situation because they deal with these situations on a case by case basis.
"It does happen, but as far as I know, it's very rare," said Jim Harris, a 26th year biology professor at UVU. "It does happen, and I know of some cases when it has happened, but I cannot think of any current ones." Davis explained when he was dean over the biology department that he had to let a teacher go due to this issue. He mentioned it was the student who came forward, and it was the vice president of academic affairs that notified him about the situation.

According to the policy for professors and adjuncts at UVU, teachers are instructed to not have any type of relationship with a current student. However, the university does not have any policy against a teacher having a relationship with a prior student or with a student that is not currently enrolled in the teacher's class.
"You've got students at the university that are adults, so it makes a great deal of a difference about whether they are current students or past students," said Harris. "I think the real issue is whether or not relationships become uncomfortable or of concern to one or other individuals."

Another professor who has been at UVU for over ten years mentioned that he was not sure if there was anything in his contract about whether or not he could have a consensual relationship with a current student. "I'd have to go back and look myself," he responded. The professor further explained that the university has made statements about sexual harassment, but nothing else.

When a teacher is hired to work for the school, they have to go through sexual harassment training online and must retake this training every three years. In the policy for teachers and adjuncts, the school briefly discusses how to appropriately interact with students; however, the university has not felt the need to take further steps to educate teachers on how to appropriately interact with students.
"Our policy is telling our faculty, you better be careful," said Bob Rasmussen, Dean of Student Affairs and Assistant Vice President of Student Life. He explained that the policy talked about professionalism, the abuse of power, and the indications of misuse.
"The responsibility lies with the faculty member much more than it lies with student," said Rasmussen. He further explained that it was the teachers responsibility; they are the ones that need to set the guidelines. "If a student wants to cross those lines, then it's the faculty members place to say stop."

"At universities you have so many more people now," said Kathren Brown, Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs. "Those of us who are older have to remember that just because a student is our age, doesn't mean that those boundaries can blur."

Brown suggested that teachers and students need to consider the long term consequences of their behavior. "I would caution anybody in a position of power not to be involved with anyone that they have even the least amount of power over," said Brown. "It can be potentially bad situation for everybody."

Mark Wiesenberg, Director of Human Resources, mentions that he hopes students or teachers that are having questionable relationships come forward and get help.

People that are concerned about a student-teacher relationship or people that are involved in this situation should seek help from the university. The university suggests that people contact academic affairs, student affairs, or human resources with questions and concerns.

DISCUSS HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT THIS ARTICLE ON FACEBOOK--Like: News In Your Backyard.

Why I should get a job in radio again..!

I love RADIO <3 Why should I work in it again?? Because I am super charismatic and love talking to everyone, it was so much fun....working venues, giving out prizes, it was FABULOUS.
Here is an aircheck of how I sound when I did top 40 radio back in Kansas.

Top 40 Radio Aircheck - Emily Stephenson by Newsinyourbackyard

Second Podcast for the UVU Review!

The Weekly Highlights for the WOLVERINE MINUTE!
Wolverine Minute - November 30, 2011 by UVU Review

First Podcast for the UVU Review!

The Weekly Highlights for the WOLVERINE MINUTE!
Wolverine Minute Podcast - Nov. 23, 2011 by UVU Review

Barnes & Noble Host a Midnight Release for Christopher Paolini's, Inheritance by Emily Stephenson

On behalf of book lovers all around, Barnes & Noble kept their doors open late for the midnight release of Christopher Paolini’s fourth and final book, Inheritance. Over 60 fans anxiously stood in line as they waited for the clock to strike twelve.

“The Inheritance Series has been very popular,” said Paul Jacobson, Community Relations Manager for Barnes & Noble. “We decided to stay open late tonight to make it possible for people to pick up the books right after midnight.”


Cameron Curtis, a customer waiting in line, mentioned that Christopher Paolini has become a better writer with each book and that he has waited patiently for the release of the final book to the Inheritance cycle series.

“I will probably finish [Inheritance] tomorrow,” said Curtis with a smile on his face. “Who doesn’t love reading about dragons and magic?”


Five minutes before midnight, Barnes & Noble conducted a drawing for a free copy of Paolini's book. At midnight, one checkout stand at a time, customers received their books and left the store satisfied.


Random House Children’s Books announced an 18-city tour throughout the United States and Canada for Paolini’s new book. Provo and Orem are two of the cities included in Paolini’s tour. On December 1st, Paolini will be in Orem at Costco and December 2nd, Paolini will be at the Provo Library.

Occupy Wall Street Movement - Interview With Dr. Michael Minch

“The people at the forefront of this are college students. The bill is going to come due. If things don’t change dramatically, people your age are going to have a very diminished life,” - Dr. Michael Minch on Occupy Wall Street. Listen to the FULL INTERVIEW HERE.

Occupy Wall Street Movement - Interview With Dr. Michael Minch by Newsinyourbackyard

The Stress of Media Convergence...by Emily Stephenson

Whoa. It is 2am in the morning and I am sitting here brainstorming what the best way is to get my news articles out. I never realized how much effort and knowledge is truly involved in social media.

-Finding story ideas, taking photos, editing, writing, conducting interviews, etc.
-Putting all this information on my blog, facebook, and twitter.
-I just started a facebook business page!
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?ref=profile&id=1190850057#!/pages/News-In-Your-Backyard/242704485785724
-Filming, posting uploads on youtube
-Trying to figure out podcasts..
-Keeping them all updated..!

Yeah, no wonder it takes multiple people to help with social media..there are so many aspects to cover.
Nap time.

Occupy Provo Demonstrates at Zions Bank by Emily Stephenson

Occupy Provo, a break off from Occupy Wall Street, hit the streets once again to raise awareness about corporate greed. This weekend they did an all day demonstration outside of Zion's Bank.

Passing cars honked their horns in support for the group of about 11 protesters, who stood bundled up in scarves and coats to protect themselves from the cold winter breeze.

“ I wanted to get involved while there were this many people uniting for a good cause,” said Shae Willes, an Occupy Provo Protester. “I don’t think it matters what the specific goals of the group are. It is more important that there are this many people that realize there is a problem and are speaking out.”

Sergeant Befendorfer, of the Provo Police Department mentioned that he was not too worried about the protest because it looked like it was the same group of protesters who peacefully demonstrated at Wells Fargo Bank last Saturday.

When asked if he was going to keep an eye on the protest, Befendorfer responded, "We'll just have people drive by once in a while."

Due to no available manager on site, Zion's Bank was unable to give a statement. However, a Zion’s Bank employee said that the manager should be back to work on Monday.

Occupy Provo decided Saturday evening at their General Assembly that they will be demonstrating Representative Jason Chaffetz and Senator Orrin Hatch's office at Center St and University Avenue in downtown Provo this coming Saturday.

Deal of the Weekend by Emily Stephenson

This weekends deal is at Walgreens. Now thru Saturday November 5th, Walgreens is giving away 25, 4x6 photos & a desktop calendar for FREE. There is no catch whatsoever. Order it online, show up and pick it up!

The 25, 4x6 photos are a VALUE of $4.75
The desktop calendar is a VALUE of $9.99

I highly recommend hopping on to Walgreens website and ordering some photos. I am about to head out the door to go to my 24-hour Walgreens to pick up my order!


Happy Photo Ordering!

Personal Testimonies of Abuse Raise Awareness at UVU by Emily Stephenson

by Emily Stephenson on Thursday, November 3, 2011

“I’ll never forget you made me feel anything less than a child of God,” were the words written in black sharpie on a shirt displayed in the Utah Valley University ballroom. However, this shirt was one of the many 100 plus shirts that were pinned up on clotheslines on behalf of The Clothesline Project to raise awareness of all forms of abuse.

The 100 plus shirts were written by students and those within the UVU community. Each shirt is a testimony of a survivors personal experience with abuse. The shirts vary in color, each color representing a different form of abuse. Some shirts show anger, despair, and sadness, while others are optimistic and hopeful.

“This allows survivors to show their story in their own personal way,” states The Clothesline Project. “The shirts in the Clothesline Project are not censored.”

The experience of going to the Clothesline Project could be compared to attending an art gallery. The ballroom had a continuous flow of people who had come to view the shirts. As people walked the rows of shirts, they would stop, stare, and ponder on the testimonies written by victims on the shirts.

While in the ballroom, sounds would play as a reminder of violence in the United States. Every 12 seconds a gong would indicate that a women reported being assaulted. Every two minutes a whistle would sound, indicating that a sexual assault was being reported.

Survivors are provided a secluded area in the back of the ballroom where they can go and write out their testimonies. They then can either let a volunteer hang up the shirt for them, or can walk out and hang up their shirt in front of everyone.

I took photos of some of the shirts on display. One of the shirts pictured in this article is mine. Abuse happens, please tell someone.

Know that you are not alone. Know that someone out there is fighting the same battle.Know that this problem is a disease and it will rot you to the core of the soul if you don’t address it. Know that not only you, but that everyone involved with the act of abuse is experiencing a deep emotion of numbness or pain. Know that there is hope. Know that you can feel happiness again.

If you need to talk, know that to some degree I understand what you are going through. I assure you that many will be supportive in your cause to overcome your pain and will help on your way to find true happiness.

"I thought you told me we were in love! At 14 I just didn't know. Love isn't: <3 - Shooting me up w/drugs <3 - Raping me <3 - Ruining me. Now I'm forever haunted."

"I am 1 of 4...1 of 4 every 4 woman are abused. I never thought it would happen to me..it did. It's easy to say no to a stranger. For me it was my best friends dad. These problems are real. Silence is your enemy. Talking is your medicine."

"I am sick of you guys who want me because of my body. You make me feel worthless and depressed. I have been raped and taken advantaged of by those who said they cared. I know there are good men out there...where are you?"

"Some things sorry just doesn't fix."

"To everyone who's ever been raped or sexually abused, be strong, open up, know it hard, but it helps forgive if you can, but never forget. The people who did those things to you are wrong. It's not your fault. Love yourself."

Occupy Provo Discussion This Tuesday at UVU by Emily Stephenson

Written 11/2/2011
Will be published in UVU Review

Tuesday, November 8th the group, Occupy Provo and various UVU Professors will be answering questions from UVU students in regards to the nationwide movement of Occupy Wall Street. Occupy Provo is a group that has branched off from Occupy Wall Street and consists of mainly college students who are in the active pursuit of making change to help Americans have better lives.

“This movement, it’s message, and it’s demands are simply shouting back to us the very values that we already have,” said Dr. Minch, Director of Peace and Justice at UVU. “We need to get over that fear which keeps some of us from hearing our own values presented back to us. I think that's the heart of the issue.”

Dr. Minch further explained that The Occupy Wall Street Movement is a battle of social and economical classes. He said that the movement was about our values as people and that everyone deserves a decent life.

“In contrary to UVU, the people at the forefront of this are college students. The bill is going to come due. If things don’t change dramatically, people your age are going to have a very diminished life,” said Dr. Minch. “This is the first generation in American History, where you will not have a quality life as good as your parents. I hope we are wrong about that, but that is the widely held view of things.”

The Occupy Wall Street movement kicked off their first protest September 17th, 2011 in New York City. Through using social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube, The Occupy Movement has since then, spread dramatically to various cities across The United States. However, most stories that are making mainstream news are stories which discuss violence, arrests, and demonstration lock-downs.

“The government themselves are putting so much effort into trying to silence us and trying to silence the message,” said Tyler Galovich, a head volunteer for Occupy Salt Lake. “Our main point in which we all standby is we want corporate money out of the government. All we want, is there to be a regulation.”

The Occupy Wall Street Movement’s ultimate concern is that the government is putting profit before people. Protesters across The United States have chanted, “We are the 99% and you are the 99%.” When asked the difference between the 99% and the 1%, Occupy Provo explained that the 99% are the people who mostly make up our country and the 1% are those that make over $8 million dollars year in The United States.

“If you don’t know what the movement is about, if you disagree with us, if you are for the movement, whatever your stance is you should come and initiate a dialogue with us. Go to the source and get the information.” said Jessica Burnham, spokesperson of Occupy Provo.

When asked why students should care about this movement, Dr. Minch responded, “They should care because their future and their children's future are imperiled.”

Dr. Minch suggested that students who are interested in the movement can come to the Occupy Provo discussion this Tuesday in the library or by getting involved in the movement in Salt Lake or Provo.

The Occupy Provo group has general assemblies at 7:00 o’clock each night at the Broiler Express on 1620 North 200 West Street in Provo, Utah. The meetings are organized and are conducted parliamentary style. Occupy Provo also has a facebook page that is updated regularly.

There will be a discussion about the Occupy Wall Street Movement this Tuesday, November 8th on UVU campus in the library auditorium at 2:30 PM. There will be a panel of professors from UVU, including Dr. Minch, and they will be answering any questions that students may have in regards to the movement.

The 99% Moves to Occupy Provo by Emily Stephenson

Written 10/29/2011
Published on UVU Review Webpage: http://www.uvureview.com/2011/10/31/the-99-moves-to-occupy-provo/

Outside of Wells Fargo Bank in downtown Provo on Saturday, the sidewalks read, “Close your accounts,” as protesters stood on the corner of 100 N and University Avenue.

The group of about 24 members from Occupy Provo stood holding signs and passing out fliers to the public. Cars driving by the scene honked in approval throughout the day as the protesters brought awareness of corporate greed.

“If you oppose us, I think it’s because you don’t understand,” said Zachary Olpin, spokesperson of Occupy Provo. “If you had a proper understanding of the issues…it’s hard to disagree with the things that we are fighting for.”

The Provo Police kept watch on the protest throughout the day to make sure that the rights of all parties were protected.

“As long as they’re not violating any laws…as far as the police are concerned we’re happy with people that want to hold a sign,” said Sergeant Befendorfer of the Provo Police. “We don’t want to discourage them or anything like that.”

Inside the walls of Wells Fargo, the bank operated as usual and remained fully staffed with District Manager Preston Meline on site for the day with his fellow employees.

“There is no official statement,” said Meline, “Wells Fargo’s motto has always been that we want our customers to succeed financially and meet all of their financial goals.”

Meline further explained that the protesters were peaceful and want their opinion known.

The demonstration ran throughout the day into the late hours Saturday evening. Occupy Provo participants decided Saturday Evening at their General Assembly that they will be demonstrating outside Zion’s Bank this coming Saturday. Occupy Provo would like to invite everyone to check out their facebook page, “Occupy Provo Discussion Group,” or participate with them this Saturday.

Occupy Salt Lake City Joins in with Occupy Wall Street by Emily Stephenson

Written Thursday 10/13/2011

There were over one hundred tents that sat on the wet grass of Pioneer Park, Thursday evening in Salt Lake City, Utah. The tents contained local area protesters who have now brought the protest of Occupy Wall Street to what is now known as Occupy Salt Lake City. The park is currently overrun with local protesters, the homeless, the police, and those who have come to see what the commotion is all about. The people all have gathered to the park for different reasons however, they all yearn change.

"Everybody just wants to see a change... The banks got a big ol' bailout. Why don't we get a bailout, I want a bailout, someone bail me out," says Kenny Blubaugh as he finished setting up the last of his tent.

In the middle of the park Tyler Galovich a volunteer for Occupy Salt Lake City, sat at a table with a sign, "Take an opinion and leave an opinion." When asked what his major ambition was for helping out with Occupy Salt Lake City he said,

"The government themselves are putting so much effort into trying to silence us and trying to silence the message. Our main point in which we all standby is we want corporate money out of the government. All we want is there to be a regulation."

Galovich explained that there was no leader of the Occupy Salt Lake City and that the protesters only want to be referred to as individuals and not as a group. The one thing which unifies them is that they are all out for change.

"I think we're all here for something. I think some of us don't even know why we're here. But in all honesty there is something horribly wrong with the government. This movement is not really designed to necessarily form a political view but it is to actually reform and change all of the other political views. Come on down, the soup is really f----ing good. You have to just be here," said Sebastian Ivesch, as he sat in the dark in front of his tent eating free soup from Occupy Salt Lake City's Cafe.

Galovich explained that they are protected by the first amendment to gather peacefully in a public area. Occupy Salt Lake City has two demonstrations daily and does not protest in Pioneer Park.

"It's actually one of our camp rules not to bring the protest into camp. As soon as we hit the sidewalk and get out of the perimeter it's on," said Galovich.

The protest of Occupy Wall Street has spread throughout major cities across the United States. However, police have made arrests in the following cities: New York, Austin, Portland, Seattle, Gainesville, Cincinnati, Salem, Denver, Des Moines, Chicago, Milwaukee, Sacramento, San Francisco, Houston, Santa Barbara, and Oakland.

When asked about Occupy Salt Lake City being shutdown Galovich replied, "We'll see what happens when it gets to that point." He stated that they are currently trying to get a permit to go to Liberty Park. Pioneer Park or not, the protesters will continue to make their voices heard until they receive change.