Spring2012Issue34

Arts & Life, B1

Sports, B4

Get ready for BASHCon

Rockets win streak hits nine with 80-62 win over CMU

Independent Collegian IC The

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Serving the University of Toledo since 1919

SG suggests students who withdraw complete evaluations

By IC Staff

Student Government passed a proposal last week calling for students who withdraw from a class to fill out teacher evaluation forms.

Students who attend class at least two weeks, which is after the add/drop deadline, will be allowed to submit anonymous teacher evaluations. The evaluations will be released at the same time as the students who finish the course.

Kasha Thomas, a junior majoring in communication, said these students should have the opportunity to express their opinions about a professor because it may give insight as to why they withdrew.

“It depends on the class, if it is a case where the professor drove them out,” said Sean Casey, a junior double-majoring in English and — Withdraw, Page A2

www.IndependentCollegian.com 92nd year Issue 34

Restoring the Ottawa River Plans for Ottawa River renovation include techniques to restore aquatic habitat

By Vincent D. Scebbi Managing Editor

UT unveiled renovation plans Tuesday for the approximate three-quarter mile section of the Ottawa River that cuts through campus.

These renovations will be funded by a $235,000 grant UT recieved from the Ohio EPA in September.

“The plan is to use the grant money to change the habitat to allow for more diversity,” said Johan Gottgens, professor of ecology. “[And to] create a habitat that mimics what might have existed here naturally with our limitations.”

Patrick Lawrence, professor and chair of the Department of Geography and Planning, said some of the engineering designs are being worked out but the goal is to begin construction during the second or third week of August.

He said those weeks are the most opportune because of low water flow and they are before most students arrive to start classes.

— River, Page A2

File photo by Nick Kneer / IC

The university announced plans to restore the Ottawa River on Tuesday that include the use of “Hydraulic Cover Stones” which will create pools behind rocks that allow aquatic life to settle in the river. UT received a S235,000 grant from the Ohio EPA in September.

UT’s Model UN competes in first competition at Dayton

By Allison Seney IC Staff Writer

UT’s Model United Nations made its debut in competition at Sinclair Community College in Dayton earlier this month.

“Model UN’s goal as an organization is to participate in debates under the same settings as the real United Nations,” said Rahul Prasad, a junior doublemajoring in chemistry and biology.

Prasad, the president of UT’s Model UN said the team presented their ideas to four com-

mittees, simulating an experience before the United Nations.

The committees were General Assembly, Security Council, Simulated Security Council and United Nations Economic Commission for Europe. Each committee discussed two topics.

The topics for General Assembly were “Human Rights in NonViolent Protests and Demonstrations” and “Combating Human Trafficking.”

Security Council discussed “Member States’ Responsibility in Preventing Misconduct during Peacekeeping Operations”

and “Drug Trafficking and its role in Fueling Conflict.”

The Simulated Security Council had the groups assess the conflict in the South China Sea. The UNECE discussed “The European Debt Crisis: Reform and Recovery” and “Developing Sustainable Alternative Energies in Europe.”

The group did not receive any rankings against other schools, but Prasad said the team received positive feedback from other delegates and advisors.

— Model UN, Page A2

Ryan Clair / IC

The Champion Photo courtesy of UT’s Model UN

UT’s chapter of Model United Nations participated in their first competition earlier this month. The competition called for proposed solutions to topics including drug trafficking, human trafficking and human rights in non-violent protests.

Shannon Longenecker, a senior majoring in biology, was announced as the fourth annual Jefferson Award Champion honoree yesterday afternoon. UT’s Jefferson Awards program was started in 2008 and recognizes members of the UT community who “make service a priority.” Every year, an annual honoree is chosen to attend recognition events in Washington D.C., according to a press release from the university.

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River From Page A1 Lawrence said the purpose of the renovations are to help restore aquatic habitats while attempting to mimic the river’s natural appearance.

The goal is to use different techniques to slow the water flow in addition to creating small pools in the current which would allow aquatic life to settle.

Some of the techniques discussed include using flat rocks called “Hydraulic Cover Stones” that create pools behind the rocks.

A second method involves using stones to slow the river at its bends. Lawrence said the rocks will create a “little

Withdraw From Page A1 communication.

Professors do not see the evaluations until final grades are submitted.

Others are not so sure the new policy is fair.

“It seems strange,” said Megan Nash, a senior

The

Independent Collegian pier” and over time, soil and plants will cover the stones, giving the river a more natural appearance.

Lawrence said the renovation techniques will use only natural tools such as wood and stone to help “put back what nature had” before the 1960s.

In order to control floods in the area of campus that stretches from the Glass Bowl to University Hall, the river was levied and part of the river was artificially straightened to help increase water flow. A repercussion of the construction was a decrease in wildlife.

Despite this, the river still holds a diverse population of fish and fresh water mussels,

according to Gottgens.

“It’s not a hotspot for wildlife, but my students found 40 different species of fish in the river,” he said. “It’s a river under stress. Nonetheless, fish have found a way to deal with it.”

Gottegns said the river’s fish populations are high, as over 100 are typically collected per sample.

One of the species found, Gottegns said, is the Least Darter which is on the list of “species of special concern.”

According to the Ohio Division of Natural Resource’s website, the 101 species on this list “might become threatened in Ohio under continued or increased stress.”

Despite the river’s

reputation of being polluted on campus, Lawrence said data and recent monitoring by the EPA indicate an improvement in habitat, water cleanliness and overall quality of the river.

He said other projects in discussion will address runoff pollution from parking lots at UT. Lawrence said this renovation project is just “one piece of the puzzle” in cleaning and improving the quality of the river.

“It’s a challenging and complex problem,” he said. “It’s a large river and there are large sources of contamination. We can’t tackle every issue at once but we can piece by piece, and this is one of them.”

double-majoring in women and gender studies and English. “You don’t learn enough in the first two weeks, depending on the class, to evaluate your professor. One month in the class is more understandable.”

David H. Davis, professor of political science, said the current system works because it

sorts out the worst problems.

Davis said he believes the current system is common practice at most universities.

Sara Lundquist, associate professor and chair of the Department of English, said she thinks the surveys should be handed out on a case-by-case basis.

“No doubt there are many

reasons why students withdraw from classes,” she said.

“If the reason is that they have never attended or attended very few classes, it doesn’t seem to me that they should have the same right to comment on the effectiveness of the instructor as a student who is committed to the class and sees it through to the end.”

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Model UN From Page A1 Prasad said the group’s attendance in Dayton helped them gain experience for upcoming competitions at Eastern Michigan University and The Ohio State University on March 10 and April 7 respectively.

“Attending the conference in Dayton was a great step forward,” he said. “The knowledge developed in preparing for the conference was only surpassed by the wealth of experience obtained. By interacting with delegates from the Ohio State University, University of Dayton and several others, we were able to develop a sense of the process used in the United Nations to deal with the issues that shape our global community.”

Members who attended the competition included Prasad, Dan Israel, Masa Karanovic, Sabrina Allen, Connor Kress, Steve Solomon, Eddie Cosma and John Missen.

Prasad said the group stays active by keeping up with current events and analyzing the

political and historical aspects of ongoing treaties and negotiations. They also host speakers and have movie nights.

“

... we were able to develop a sense of the process used in the United Nations to deal with the issues that shape our global community.

Rahul Prasad President, UT’s Model United Nations

”

For example, last year the group hosted a speaker to discuss the Palestinian statehood.

Prasad hopes the group continues to develop its global awareness.

“As an organization, our goal is to ultimately learn the global issues,” he said.

Students can get involved by emailing utmodelun@gmail. com or attending the weekly meetings held Thursdays at 5 p.m. on the first floor of Sullivan Hall.

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Thursday, February 16, 2012

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Solution

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Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit 1 to 9.

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All rights reserved.

Forum

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Thursday, February 16, 2012

Randiah Green Editor-in-Chief

Marina Schaberg Business Manager

Vincent D. Scebbi Managing Editor

Jantzen Ridenour Forum Editor

- in our opinion -

UT memes, PR nightmare memes like Gene Wilder’s Willy Wonka saying “You got a 1.3 GPA in high school? Must have a full ride here at UT”; a triumphant-looking baby exclaiming “Walks in front of Crossing, doesn’t get shot”; or a personal favorite of UT Facebook users, a picture of President Lloyd Jacobs saying “Makes massive budget cuts, doesn’t take salary cut.” There are over 100 likes and numerous comments under that picture, with a few choice words from students.

There are not only social misfits and deviants posting, liking and commenting on these memes. Well-established undergraduate students, graduate students, a large number of student leaders are active on this page, plus some high school students still deciding whether to go to UT or not. These are students actively, honestly and humorously voicing their opinion about their institution and environment. They should not under any circumstances be penalized or sanctioned for voicing their honest opinion.

What could be done instead is the university administration could actively listen to these voices and alleviate the problems here at UT. Instead, UT continues a publicity campaign that tends to tell only half-truths and is misrepresentative of the majority of students.

With a student body more adept at using social media, more tech savvy and perhaps a bit ticked-off, it is misguided to think marketing gimmicks like #whyUToledo tweets will work to better public perception and, ultimately, profit. There is nothing more irksome to an establishment than people who are irritated and brave enough to be honest.

Recently a group on Facebook has been created called “University of Toledo Memes” in which different Facebook users can upload a meme of their own creation with websites like quickmeme.com and post it for the entire world to see. What is beautiful is that all of the memes are about UT. Kudos for school spirit.

Well, sort of.

While the memes are doing something quite beautiful for students, they could be a public relations nightmare for UT administrators. The group allows students to speak openly and humorously about the realities they face here at UT, no matter how funny, interesting, disturbing or depressing they may be. But for the administration it takes students’ realities of the university and presents them to a vast network of Facebook users and − drumroll please − potential students.

In a bid for better public reception, a Twitter campaign was started by UT at #whyUToledo.

By the lack of tweets displayed on UT’s homepage, it seems students are participating minimally.

Actually, based on a search of #whyUToledo, it seems that students have been tweeting about UT relentlessly, but most of the messages aren’t exactly what the administration is looking for. The official UT Twitter page hardly shows any students tweeting about UT save for the occasional positive remark. This inevitably leads one to believe that there is an awful lot of censoring going on here. A similar situation can be found on UT’s Facebook page as well.

The UT memes page its essentially jabbing its finger in the eyes of the administration. With

Not our kind of rockets If one Googles “Horrific Crimes Against Children in Assad Rocket Strike,” they will be taken to a 56 second video featuring two Syrian boys injured in a rocket attack with gruesome content.

The bottom half of one boy’s face has been blown off. He is still alive, still conscious and trying to communicate with those around him. He can make no sounds, only motions. He looks at the camera with agony in his eyes with what is left of his face.

Blood-drenched pieces of flesh dangle like small strips of fabric while the viewer has no choice but to look straight into the boys exposed esophagus. Strings of flesh cling to his shirt as he moves and puddles of blood accumulate beneath him.

The other boy’s leg is blown off just below the knee. No older than 12, he lies on a stretcher screaming in pain. The camera pans to his leg. Crimson puddles form beneath the remnants of the quivering slices of meat that were his appendage.

The children’s assailant? Their own government.

All of this is going on because the people in their city and throughout Syria protested – peacefully, then violently – against an unjust ruler. They want democracy and are willing to fight for it.

What has the U.S. and the international community done? Essentially nothing. If Western governments do intervene, it will be for other motives, such as locations for military bases in the Middle East which would allow for Western powers to more easily protect their petroleum investments in the area.

There have recently been talks of opening humanitarian corridors but this proposal is

easily distortable, giving way to military intervention which will inevitably lead to the countless deaths of innocents. Regardless of intervention, innocent people will suffer and die from shells and bombardments courtesy their own government.

Mainstream media fails to explain the truths of the situation; it is extremely complicated. The Syrian government is backed

by Iran, enemy to the U.S. and most Western countries, meaning the U.S. supports the civilian efforts. However, al-Qaida publicly supports the opposition, and reports have surfaced that arms were given to the Syrian rebels by the terrorist organization.

It gets more confusing. The U.S. officially links al-Qaida to Iran, yet Iran has promised to send special forces to Syria to assist the current regime. Peculiarly, the U.S. and alQaida both support and are against the same parties. That connection would most likely never be seen on major American news corporations. One would have to search AlJazeera, RT, or Democracy Now for such information.

Injustices against humanity continue with little sincere effort to stop them, not for lack of will of the people of the world, but due to politics. Sadly, the two boys in the video are nothing more than collateral damage, pawns in a bloody game of chess.

Just as wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have affected Americans, both military action and lack of military action in Syria will negatively affect Americans.

What may be more disturbing is that if one were to ask random students here at UT about the violations of human rights in Syria, odds are a number would respond with, “What is Syria?”

The

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- Letter To the editor This letter to the editor is in response to the fake masturbation story published in the February 9th issue of The Independent Collegian. First I would like to say that the headline was rather misleading. I found myself asking “What exactly is fake masturbation?” Fortunately, the article took care of my question. Now, I was raised in a small town in eastern Kentucky so we don’t talk much about these things but I did find that the article answered a lot of questions I had and raised some concerns as well.

I don’t think that the boy who did this out to be in trouble and such. I feel like the UT administrators overreacted just a tiny bit. I think he did a public service. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve used the showers only to find I stepped in something peculiar with my flip flops. I used to think it was just a little spit or something.

Now, I realize that most of us males in the dorms are on

the tail end our pubescent experience or what my dad calls “changing the motor oil from boyhood grade SAE-30 to manhood grade 5W-30” and with that we can’t deny that some of us do endeavor to play with the devil’s joystick from time to time.

Knowing that, I think the prankster did a public service to raise awareness about a very real issue and that is masturbation etiquette. I know it’s a tad embarrassing but it’s something that affects many of us and is not often talked about.

My old roommate used to say that when I went to class he tried to asphyxiate a chicken or something, which I found a bit odd. You know, bringing livestock into your dorm room and all. What was even stranger was that when I came back I could never find any feathers or anything.

I used to think he must have cleaned them all up but everything else in the room was dirty and there were used tissues everywhere. He sure did get sick a lot, but I never

once saw him sneeze.

Our beds used to be bunked and at night when I tried to sleep the beds would always start shaking. I just figured he had that restless leg syndrome.

After I learned that he hadn’t been bringing livestock to the room and his legs weren’t restless at all, I suggested he use the shower instead. To this he replied “I can’t take my computer in the shower!” I completely understood his problem. We eventually came to an agreement about his extracurricular activities.

Though I disagree with using the UT logo, I think overall it was a mighty fine joke and makes a great opening for male students to talk about roommate etiquette in regards to satisfying fleshly temptations.

— Earnest T. Everett Satire Hills, Ky.

Game Over Choosing The University of Toledo has been one of the best decisions of my life.

I am grateful every day for the person I’ve become. I found my passions that I’ll pursue over a lifetime.

I’ve been part of a few great organizaBraeden tions where Gilchrist I grew as a leader and made lasting friends. I’ve accumulated stories that entertain others. I have professional experience that will land me a job. I’m in a stable loving partnership. Past me wasn’t particularly ambitious in high school and spent most of my time playing video games. If college didn’t shake up my world, then video games would have ruined my life.

“Pokémon” could be considered my first obsession.

The original “Pokémon” games stop logging time after 99 hours and 99 minutes.

I know this from personal experience. I can still name the original 151 monsters, talk strategy, and go through Rock Tunnel without TM05, which contains the lightgenerating move “Flash.” I remember skipping school to try and get ahead of my older brother. It was only fourth grade, and I didn’t have anything better to do than play video games.

Video games have since become more immersive and addictive. This virtual world is even more inviting when you include television and the endless distractions of the Internet. Most of my

gaming and Internet time is spent alone. I’m fine by it. I don’t get into multiplayer.

For me, gaming isn’t social.

In college, the dorms are filled with twenty other people from one floor playing the same new game. There’s a shared experience but it lacks the social aspect. You can play video games with a group of people and get away with surprising little conversation.

There came a point when I

“

Like most things in life video games are acceptable in moderation

”

wanted to experience everything college had to offer: classes, homework, a fraternity, the YMCA, a part-time job and dating. Video games didn’t help me with any of those things. Aside from maybe improving my critical thinking and reaction time, video games actually held me back. Few companies value your ability to build a balanced Pokémon team.

Most girls don’t care about your thriving berry business.

I wished my professor gave me extra credit for a level one hundred Golem.

Humans still work and play in the analog world but are spending less time living in it. Virtual experiences are cannibalizing real world ones.

Males are attracted to video games at a higher rate than females. Boys are experiencing the effects more often than girls. For example, males still aspire to legitimately court and woo a girl.

There is a growing social cluelessness about what to say to a girl or do around one. Sexist jokes about sandwich-making show boys are looking more for a porn star maid than a partner with equal footing. I feel bad for girls because they are stuck choosing from unimpressive stock.

Males are worse at picking up on facial and physical communication. This makes them less effective listeners and communicators. The only place to get better at this is away from a screen.

The best advice I can give to a friend looking for a date is learning how to dance and cook.

Like most things in life, video games are acceptable in moderation. I made a point to cook more often. I took a few swing dance classes. While I lack any rhythm, I see myself going to more dances in the future. I made real effort to become a renaissance man.

Technology offers fascinating glimpses into other worlds, but some can also retard social development because there is little about video games that is active. I am happier and feel better when I am participating in active entertainment like intramural sports, cooking and writing. I still look forward to playing the next “Legend of Zelda.” Success is inversely proportional to the amount of time spent passively playing video games.

— Braeden Gilchrist is a senior majoring in Mechanical Engineering

B

Section

www.IndependentCollegian.com Around town Feb. 16Feb. 22

Thursday Stranahan Theatre — Experience

2006

Grammy

Winner “Jersey Boys” all through February. Show is not recommended for children, due to smoking, violence and adult themes. The show runs through February 26. Tickets can be purchased at http://theaterleague.com/ toledo/jersey-boys.

Arts and Life Thursday, February 16, 2012

Page

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Caitlin Arthurs – Editor

Get ready for BASHCon

27th annual BASHCon takes over the Student Union for a weekend of gaming

By IC Staff

“Everybody loves games.”

That’s what BASHCon Chair Qusai Al Shidi said is the reason for holding the annual event.

Shidi, a senior majoring in physics, heads up the committee in charge of planning the renowned event.

BASHCon is a 30-year-old UT tradition and a huge event for the national gaming community. It is hosted

by UT BASH. For those who have never experienced the convention, this is one thing they don’t

want to miss. This weekend Highlights also include a is sure to be fulfilling for virtual reality pod allowing gamers of all types. players to pilot a robot and a The big popular gamevent for this ing podcast year’s conwhich will Our motto is, l i v e - s t r e a m vention is the premiere ‘Bringing gaming to the t h r o u g h o u t of two new masses. the weekend. board games Additionalby Mayfair ly, stations for Games. A UT card and alumni who Qusai Al Shidi board games now works Chair, — such as for the inter- BASHCon “Magic the national Gathering” gaming comand “Settlers pany helped bring the new of Catan” —and video games games to BASHCon. — such as “Call of Duty” and

“

”

“Halo: Reach” —will be set up, and tournaments will be held for multiple games.

BASH reserved every room in the Student Union Building from Friday to Sunday.

Last year, the convention hosted over 1,000 attendees, and Shidi said over 1,200 are expected this year.

“Our motto is, ‘Bringing gaming to the masses,’” he said.

For students aspiring to work in the gaming industry, the convention provides a great networking opportunity.

Shidi said that BASHCon and other conventions allow gamers to meet game developers, make new friends, and experience new games.

Shidi said he plans to create an unforgettable experience for every attendee.

BASHCon will kick off tomorrow with registration starting at 4 p.m. UT students and faculty get free admission. For other attendees, the cost is $10 per day or $15 for a weekend pass. A special $25 badge that comes with a T-shirt and several privileges is also available.

All proceeds go to BASH.

Show

starts at 8 p.m.

Saturday The Omni — Triple Threat is celebrating their new CD release, along with Bolic, Oliver Twist, C-Fifth, Cadillac Brothaz, Sho-Time and Kaylz P. Manson. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door and $8 in advance and can be purchased at http:// www.omnimidwest.com.

Sunday Bar 145 — Test your real ability to rock at the Rock Capitol 10-week live-band karaoke competition. Become one of the top four competitors and advance through the ranks as the

Photo Courtesy of UT BASH

Numerous video games and table games, such as the popular “Dungeons and Dragons” and “Settlers of Catan”, are featured at BASHCon.

‘King Oedipus’ takes the stage

By Caitlin Arthurs Arts and Life Editor

For years, students have been reading the story of Sophocles’ “Oedipus Rex.” This week, it comes alive on UT’s stage.

Premiering tomorrow, King Oedipus will take spectators on a journey through

a classic tale — but not in the classic way.

For those who may not have read the story of Oedipus, it focuses on the title hero’s quest to rescue the city of Thebes from the wrath of the gods. These divine beings threaten to ravish the land with a plague

until the murderer of the previous king is found and punished.

Director Ed Lingan believes even though this is an ancient text, it doesn’t have to be presented in an ancient way.

“I set the play in a postapocalyptic future rather

weeks progress. Winner re-

Competitions start each Sunday at 9:30 p.m.

Monday Hayes Presidential Center — Celebrate President’s Day weekend with a trip through the 25-acre estate of 19th U.S. President Rutherford B. Hayes using the mode of transportation he used - a horse-drawn sleigh or carriage. Sleigh Rides in Spiegel Grove run from 1 p.m. to 4 and

costs

$3

“

”

ceives a $500 grand prize.

p.m.

than the ancient past,” he said. to do.

“I wanted to participate in a “It is set in a subterranean, industrial complex. The charac- show at UT [for a long time],” ters dress in steampunk style, he said. “In my last semester as a full-time which blends student, I late 19th and didn’t want to early 20th cenSophocles’ play is regret never tury fashions with futuristic one of the most well a u d i t i o n i n g elements.” known plays in the his- so I decided As shown in tory of theatre. that I would somehow “A Midsummer find time to Night’s Dream” accomplish last fall, even a Ed Lingan this dream.” play that is out- Director, With all of dated can be “King Oedipus” the talent and made fresh and entertaining for a younger time put into this production — through sets, costumes, audience.

Through visual cues and the choreography and acting — actors’ portrayal of their lines this is sure to be a good show.

As for Lingan, the main goal and characters, the story is made interesting and easy for is to expose students to a classic. the audience to understand.

“Sophocles’ play is one of Many talented people turned out to audition, including Stu- the most well-known plays in dent Government President the history of theatre, and beMatt Rubin. Landing the role ing acquainted with it adds to of the Corinthian Messenger, one’s cultural literacy,” he he sees it as a privilege and said. “[I hope] that it will help couldn’t be happier to play the some people discover ancient Greek tragedy for the first part.

“It’s wonderful. I enjoy be- time.”

Rubin just wants people to ing on stage,” Rubin said. “It has been a challenge, but most come to the show and experistudents face challenges fit- ence the joy of theatre.

“My personal goal is to bring ting in these kinds of activities [in their schedules]. Most of people to the theater that have my castmates must also bal- never experienced a live stage ance school work, jobs and production,” he said. “Students in the theater departhome life.”

Rubin also sees the produc- ment work so hard on their tion as an opportunity to bet- craft and are an important aster represent the student body pect of our community. I hope by getting in touch with a new first-time theater goers begroup of students and under- come inspired to push themstanding their needs and selves to try something new.”

Performances of “King Oeconcerns.

Being the second-to- last dipus” will run Feb. 17 to 19, production of the year, “King and Feb. 22 to 26 at the CenOedipus” is one of the last op- ter for Performing Arts Cenportunities that graduating ter Theatre. Tickets can be students have to star in a UT purchased at the box office at production. For many, it will $7 for students, $11 for facbe an emotional experience. ulty, staff, alumni and seRubin said it is a chance to do niors and $13 for the general something he’s always wanted public.

per

person.

Lori King / The Blade

Creon (Timothy Fox), back, addresses Oedipus (William Toth) as they rehearse the play “King Oedipus” at the University of Toledo’s Center for Performing Arts.

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Independent Collegian

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Mardi Gras: more than parties and ‘COPS’

By Kimberly Roland IC Staff Writer

Besides jambalaya, black magic and the beautiful bayous, New Orleans is also home to the infamous Fat Tuesday, better known as Mardi Gras.

Many people like to celebrate Mardi Gras with various parties and traditions, but few know the true origin of the holiday.

The origins of Mardi Gras can be traced back to 14th century Europe. It was originally a Christian holiday, a combination of traditional and pagan rituals enacted by the early church fathers.

Mardi Gras was introduced to America in 1699 when the French explorer Iberville set up camp near the Mississippi River, very close to the current city of New Orleans.

There he enacted what was then called “Point du Mardi Gras” to uphold the traditions of the holiday which had been celebrated in France for years.

Now, let’s fast forward to Mardi Gras celebrations in the late 20th century. Usually, we picture big floats, huge masses of crowds and drunken college students flashing each other to get cheap plastic beads; in some cases, these images are true. The locals of New Orleans, however, paint a much more intimate picture of the day, focusing more on upholding traditions set in the 1600s.

For those who took French in high school, Mardi Gras parties often included a less than accurate sample of King Cake, a popular dessert. But down in New Orleans, it’s not a proper Mardi Gras without this hand-braided Danish dough.

Baked, glazed and covered in purple, green and gold sprinkles, the recipe wouldn’t be complete without a tiny plastic baby hidden inside.

Yes, that’s right — a plastic baby.

Every King Cake has one of these babies baked into it for feasters to find. Whoever receives the slice of cake with the baby in it is then asked to host next year’s Mardi Gras celebration.

Many long hours and months are spent preparing for this sinful celebration.

This year alone, there will be over a dozen parade floats featuring prominent characters and celebrities. The floats occupied by influential persons are called “Krewes.”

During the early morning and afternoon, Bourbon Street in downtown New Orleans is flooded with spectators of all ages who watch the colorful floats make their way through the streets. Another parade tradition is the throwing of the trinkets, started in 1877 by a group known as the Twelfth Night Revelers.

Every year, crowds rush to the streets to collect doubloons, beads and plastic cups. People shout “Throw

me something, mister,” when they want one of these trinkets thrown. The official Mardi Gras website warns new visitors not to be the first to place their hands on the sidewalk when the trinkets are thrown. Many locals will stomp on the thrown doubloons to claim for themselves and some aren’t afraid of stepping on fingers and toes to get to them.

When the sun falls, many adults head over to the French Quarter. This part of the celebration is not intended for children – in fact, parents are warned against bringing them.

The French Quarter is where the large masses gather to commit the stereotypical lewd behavior that many people associate with New Orleans. The rowdier crowds gather, bingeing on alcohol and flashing for beads. The locals insist that this part of the celebration has nothing to do with the actual tradition.

All in all, the traditions of Fat Tuesday should not be confused with scenes shown on “COPS: Mardi Gras Edition.” This cultural holiday gives New Orleans both a way to preserve their colorful history and bring money into an economy still suffering from the effects of Hurricane Katrina.

So grab a mask and some beads, and enjoy Mardi Gras while keeping in mind the origins of this festive holiday.

this is

Just one of the many things you can see while walking around the French Quarters during Mardi Gras.

From pen to paper Submissions from student literary artists Short Life

Send any form of creative writing to carthurs@independentcollegian.com to be featured in the Arts and Life section.

I never thought this could happen to me Just an ordinary day I never thought this could be I knew better than to go with him but I did it on a whim

When he started to take advantage of me all I could do was scream

This all had to be a dream

never knew this could be

never knew this could happen to me He seemed so nice I just didn’t know his heart was full of ice After raping me he took my life He had killed me with a knife

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I was four-teen when I was no more But it opened up another door The door to heaven when I could go back to when I was eleven

I watch the people who remember the daughter I used to be But as I look down they don’t know that I can see Everything will be meaningless if my family stays a mess

They never found the retched neighbor Even though they were looking in my fathers favor Now my family is so broken And my mother has started smokin’

Without me there to keep us together They float away like a feather When they finally got some closer My mom didn’t have to act like a poser

Now my family has no fright Because their future is so bright

By Maranda Carlson - Maranda Carlson is a freshman majoring in film.

The Independent Collegian is not responsible for any mistakes, grammatical or otherwise, in the weekly “From Pen to Paper” submissions. Out of respect for the writers and their work, we do not edit or change their words. We trust that what is submitted is in the form that the author intended.

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Thursday, February 16, 2012

Rocket Baseball picked to finish second in MAC West

File Photo by Zach Davis

With a solid pitching rotation returning for the UT this season, a MAC title will be a real possibility.

By IC Staff

Toledo has been picked to finish second in the MidAmerican Conference West Division by the leagues annual preseason head coaches poll.

The Rockets received 45 points and trailed only Central Michigan who scored 59 points in the vote.

The Rockets return a dugout full of talent this season starting at the mound with senior RHP Matt Kuna and junior RHP Mike Hamann.

Also returning to the field for Toledo is senior OF Ben Hammer (2011 second-team All-MAC), senior INF Mark Lapikas (2011 second-team All-MAC), senior INF Joe

Corfman (2010 first-team All-MAC), senior INF/DH Matt Delewski (2010 firstteam All-MAC).

The Rockets open their 2012 season this weekend with a three game series against Western Kentucky.

The first game has a scheduled first pitch for 3 p.m. on Friday.

(Jim McIsaac/Newsday/MCT)

LIN-sanity New York Knick’s guard Jeremy Lin has captured sports nation with his underdog story.

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Working at the IC will give you: 

A job: it's a great resume-builder

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“

We came out hitting on all cylinders and I’m very proud of our team.

Tricia Cullop UT Head Basketball Coach

Section B

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Sports

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Thursday, February 16, 2012

4

Joe Mehling – Editor

Rockets win streak hits nine with 80-62 win over CMU

By Nate Pentecost Assistant Sports Editor

File Photo by Nick Kneer

Senior Courtney Ingersoll and the Rockets ran Central Michigan out of their own building last night in a 80-62 blowout win.

After an exhilarating comeback win over Bowling Green last Saturday, the Rockets avoided a letdown with a tremendous offensive output last night in Mount Pleasant.

The 80-62 blowout win over Central Michigan (13-13, 5-7 Mid-American Conference) extends Toledo’s winning streak to a season-high nine games.

“It’s really tough to get a win up here,” said UT head coach Tricia Cullop. “If you look at our history we’ve had close games and to be honest that’s what I was prepared for.”

Toledo (17-7, 10-2) shot 53 percent (32-of-60) from the field, including 56 percent (9of-16) from three-point range.

All 11 Rockets who took the court found the scoring column.

“We came out hitting on all cylinders and I’m very proud of our team,” Cullop said. “Every kid who came in was ready to play UT held the Chippewas to 31.8 percent (21-of-66) shooting from the floor and 25 percent (5-of-20) from threepoint range.

Senior guard Haylie Linn scorched the Central for a career-high 24 points on 9-of-10 shooting, including 6-of-7 from beyond the arc.

“It’s funny, at the very beginning of the game (Linn) passed up a couple shots,” Cullop said. “We took her out, we talked about it, she didn’t pass up another one and I’m glad.

“She really did play an outstanding game and she wasn’t feeling the best today so we’re

really proud of her.”

Junior forward Lecretia Smith recorded her second double-double against CMU this season with 13 points and 10 rebounds. Sophomore guard Andola Dortch added 16 points while teammate Yolanda Richardson grabbed a game-high 11 rebounds.

Junior guard Brandie Baker led Central with 13 points, shooting 9-of-12 from the free throw line but just 2-of-11 from the field.

Sophomore forward Taylor Johnson scored the first seven points for the home team, helping the Chippewas establish a 10-7 lead in the early going.

Sparked by six points apiece from Linn and Dortch, the Rockets went on a 16-5 run to take a 23-15 advantage near the midway point of the first half.

UT would not relinquish the lead the remainder of the game.

“We’re trying to chase down one of those (MAC Tournament) buys,” Cullop said. “If you can get the buys in the tournament that’s huge. But we’re not out of the clear. We’ve got a lot of games to go to do that.”

The next of those games will be at Savage Arena this Saturday, against Western Michigan.

The game is set to be televised on Sports Time Ohio with tip-off scheduled for noon.

Saturday’s showdown with the Broncos marks UT’s fourth-annual “Rockets For the Cure.” The game will benefit the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Northwest Ohio. The team encourages those in attendance to wear pink in support of cancer research.

Toledo’s Dennis leads UT in 63-55 win over Ball St.

File Photo by Nick Kneer

Curtis Dennis hit four of his six shots from beyond the arc in the UT 63-55 win over Ball State.

By Joe Mehling Sports Editor

The Rockets pulled to within one game of the Mid-American Conference West Division lead after a hard fought 63-50 road win over Ball State last night.

Toledo was led by junior forward Curtis Dennis as he hit 4-of-6 from beyond the arc and added a few free throws to notch 17 points .

Back-to-back-to-back MAC West player of the week, Rian Pearson, had an off night shooting, hitting just two shots from the floor but led the team with seven rebounds.

Junior guard Dominique Buckley and freshman Julius Brown combined for 21 points, seven assists and five rebounds in the UT backcourt.

Both Toledo and Ball State struggled in the first half, combining for just 43 points at the

break (22-21 UT).

The Rockets opened the second half on a 14-7 run to stretch their slim lead to 36-28 after three pointer from Dennis.

Ball State fought back to get within five but another quick spurt by the Rockets sent the game out of reach once again.

Toledo returns to the hardwood for the Sears BracketBuster matchup at Sam Houston State on Saturday at 3 p.m.

(Kirthmon F. Dozier/Deroit Free Press/MCT)

This Is Our House Pavel Datsyuk and the Red Wings look to extend the new NHL record to 22 straight wins at The Joe with the Predators visiting Motown tomorrow. The puck drops at 7:30 p.m.