Month: February 2013

Tech/No Series speaker: Rebecca Skloot

Daniel Park

Contributing Writer

Rebecca Skloot discussed her experiences, as well as her thoughts gained through the process of writing her best-selling novel, “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks,” during her discussion and Q&A session on Feb. 6. Her novel describes the story of a young black woman who died of cervical cancer, but who left behind her line of immortal cells. These cells have contributed to advancements in science in regards to vaccines and treatments of viruses and cancers.

The forum was hosted by James Shields, assistant professor of comparative humanities and Asian thought, and was free and open to the public. The event was part of the University Forum series, “tech/no,” focusing on technology’s evolution and role in society.

Skloot began the discussion with her initial encounter with the Lacks family.

“I called her [Henrietta’s daughter], and as soon as the word ‘cell’ came out, she immediately told me she would not give any cells for research,” Skloot said. “It took a long time for them to open up to me.”

As Skloot explained Lacks’ story, the discussion became more focused on whether being a minority played a major role in how or why scientists took Lacks’ cells, without proper consent, for research.

Shields posed a question regarding the effects of the commercialization of science and its current presence in society.

“Scientists are very concerned that people are too focused and that the research conducted is purely with profit motive,” Skloot said. “I think money issues really come down to access to healthcare for those who can’t afford.”

Skloot furthered the topic by discussing the various surveys conducted to capture public opinion on the subject. The ethics that surround this issue, Skloot pointed out, were once lacking because no one expected this breakthrough in science. Now there are entire fields devoted to the ethics regarding science and technology.

The second half of the forum was opened to the public for any questions regarding the makings of her book. Most of the questions she answered also related to the ethics in science, particularly in stem cell research. The event concluded with a book signing.

“I really enjoyed the book,” graduate student Trang Tran said. “It was informative, thought-provoking and sentimental. The issues discussed within the book weren’t something that I actively thought about until I read it.”

“I enjoyed the thought process and background of the book. I became more curious about her personal story on how she came upon the book and I wanted to know more of her experiences,” Justin Marinelli ’15 said.

Victoria Hollo

Contributing Writer

As two female University students were walking back to campus on Feb. 2 at approximately 2:10 a.m. they were approached from behind by a balding white male in the 500 block of James Alley behind Martin House. The students attempted to avoid the man, but he proceeded to display a small semi-automatic pistol.

The two students reacted quickly to remove themselves from the situation and immediately contacted the Department of Public Safety. Public Safety then notified Buffalo Valley Regional Police Department who found the alleged man near South Sixth and St. George Streets within minutes after the phone call.

According to Sgt. Hetrick, a member of the Buffalo Valley Regional Police Department, the suspect, 27-year-old Alexander Nace of Sunbury, was taken into custody and has been charged and arrested of his crime. 

Nace “faces 12 charges, including two felony counts each of criminal attempt of kidnapping and of burglary … Remaining charges are two counts each of stalking, terrorist threats, simple assault and harassment,” according to The Daily Item.

“When we saw the gun, we screamed and ran away,” said one of the women involved in the incident, who chose to remain anonymous. “Public Safety told us this was probably the best response, because we were able to draw attention to ourselves and get away from the situation. So looking back, I probably would have done the same thing,” she said. 

Since the case is still open and needs to go to trial, further details could not be disclosed. 

“Personally, I don’t feel like my safety has been compromised,” Caroline Collins ’15 said.

“After my house was robbed twice in the past six months, and after I heard there was a man with a gun threatening people around the campus, I can definitely say my perception of Lewisburg has changed for the worse,” Archie Gwathmey ’15 said. 

This incident calls into question the safety of the University community. Andy Hirsch, director of media communications, suggests that students take advantage of the educational outreach program that includes several different training opportunities and presentations coordinated by the Department of Public Safety.

“Since the incident I have become more cautious,” Haley Kameros ’15 said.

Hetrick advises students to always walk in pairs and to remain in lighted areas when walking at night. He also stated that the local police will continue to place as many officers as they can on patrol, especially during weekend nights, merging efforts with Public Safety officers as well.

“For advice to other students, to avoid something like this never walk by yourself at night,” the same woman involved said. “Stick to the main streets. If someone suspicious is approaching you or harasses you, make sure you notice what they look like and call Public Safety right away. Because we called Public Safety immediately, they were able to work with the local police and find the guy right away. And always be aware of your surroundings.”

The chief officer of Public Safety away this week, and more specific details of the incident could not be obtained.

Sarah Antonacci

Contributing Writer

The Concert Committee is thrilled to announce the performers for the annual Spring Concert: Lupe Fiasco and Third Eye Blind. The concert will take place April 5 in Sojka Pavilion. The doors will open at 7 p.m. and the show will begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are going on sale for students on Feb. 15 at the Campus Box Office. The public will have access to tickets on Feb. 18. There are both floor and seat tickets available, each of which are $30 for students, and $35 for the public.

Lupe Fiasco is a hip hop/rap artist, while Third Eye Blind is an alternative band. Some of Lupe Fiasco’s best-known songs are “Battle Scars,” “The Show Goes On” and “Superstar.” Some of Third Eye Blind’s most popular songs are “Semi-Charmed Life,” “Jumper” and “Never Let You Go.”

“The committee was very excited to hear that we secured Lupe Fiasco and Third Eye Blind,” Concert Committee Chair Zack Beltran ’13 said. “After the disappointing cancellation of Avicii in the fall, we were looking for a concert that would appeal to a wide audience of students and provide a fun, exciting atmosphere. I think Lupe and Third Eye Blind both have lots of songs that students know, and appeal to a variety of musical tastes. Mixed genre concerts have done well in the past at Bucknell, and we’re looking forward to seeing many students on campus come out for the show. We’re also excited to have a show back in Sojka Pavilion because it really feels like a concert and has great sound quality.”