April 4, 2012 issue by Mace and Crown

WEDNESDAY | 4.4.12 MaceandCROWN.COM | Vol. 54, Issue 22

Bike & Build FOUR ODU STUDENTS ARE IN FOR THE RIDE OF A LIFETIME By: Derek Page News Editor

For most students, summer is a time for lounging around the pool, soaking up some rays and maybe enjoying a drink or two before it‘s back to school for more lectures. However, Emily Uperti, Cassi Patterson, Becky Holgate and Jacob Richardson aren’t like most students. This summer, these four seemingly average Old Dominion University students will be having a not-so-average summer as they venture out on a cross country bicycle trip as part of a philanthropic program, Bike & Build, based in Philadelphia. Bike & Build is a service oriented bicycling trip for young adults between the ages of 18 to 25 to engage with local communities and help with constructing affordable housing systems. “Community service means a lot to me, but I’ve never done something

SGA Election Results see A3

quite as daunting as Bike & Build. This organization has you committed to an entire summer of service which is the coolest thing ever,” said Uperti. According to the Bike & Build website, “Bike & Build envisions future generations who are committed to a lifetime of civic engagements and who inspire individuals and communities to create fair, decent housing for all Americans.” The program requires participants to complete 10 hours in “sweat equity,” working with an affordable housing organization before they begin their summer trek, so riders know what to expect when they arrive at job sites. The four decided they would volunteer with Habitat for Humanity of South Hampton Roads. Uperti said having the opportunity to be involved in projects multiple times over the summer gives her butterflies. “Going to the build site and hearing about who the house is going to is a continued on A3

ODU’s Spring Career Fair see B2

(from left to right) Emily Uperti, Becky Holgate, Jacob Richardson and Cassi Patterson will bike cross country this summer as part of a community service program, Bike & Build.

ODU Dance Team: Dynasty Dancers see C1

ODU Presents: Robert Putnam Author and Harvard professor speaks on religious trends in our society

Dr. Robert Putnam of Harvard University promoting his new book, “American Grace: How Religion Unites and Divides Us.”

Inside the Mace: Volunteer Athletes: Old

Dominion’s Rowing Club By: Matthew McCracken Sports Editor

Some students are not fortunate enough to receive a scholarship for a sport, but that doesn’t mean they lose their love for athletics. Old Dominion’s rowing club is a perfect example. continued on C2

Team Player Rebecca Hartrum see C3 By: Andrew Tompkins Staff Writer Prestigious author and Malkin professor of public policy at Harvard University Robert D. Putnam spoke Thursday night to a packed room at the Ted Constant Center. Putnam’s lecture addressed the growing metamorphosis that religious attitudes have undergone in recent decades. Promoting his newest book “American Grace: How Religion Unites and Divides Us,” Putnam spoke primarily on topics covered in his book. Backed up by data collected from his own research team over the course of several years and in collaboration with existing research from past decades, Putnam talked not on theology, but about religious trends, diversity and tolerance in America. His lecture explained how religious trends have a profound effect on the political and sociological climate of society and how the influences run much deeper than most people realize. While his lecture addressed key subjects about the correlation between religion and political views, Putnam emphasized the extraordinary tolerance Americans have for other religions. A substantial part of his lecture focused on how American values change much quicker than most other nations or cultures. With records and data that go back to the 1950s, Putnam explained how American attitudes toward things can essentially do a 180-degree turn in terms of popularity in only a couple years and that there are “shockwaves” from these social movements that have a lasting impact on future generations.

“American Idol” vs. “The Voice” see D2 The rate at which these changes take place is something that is unique to our culture and country. Putnam is an esteemed Harvard academic and has published over 12 books that have been translated into over 20 languages. He is seen as one of the leading sociological and public policy academics in the world. In addition he has received numerous industry leading awards including the Johan Skytte Prize, which is the most prestigious international award for achievements in political science. In addition he is a member of the National Academy of Sciences, a fellow of the British Academy, and former president of the American Political Science Academy. He is most famous for his 2000 best-selling book “Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community.” The book received nationwide praise from academics within the field of social sciences. “Bowling Alone” addressed the decline of “social capital” in American society and the subsequent effect it has had on active civil engagement. “As we connect more in our private lives with different types of people our attitudes towards those types of people change which makes America a uniquely tolerant place,” Putnam explained. Putnam spoke as part of the ODU Presents lecture series. ODU Presents focuses on the university’s research initiatives and outreach efforts and features engaging speakers from a variety of disciplines. ODU Presents lecture series’ are open to the public as well as students and faculty and encourage participation.

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A2 | MACE & CROWN | Wednesday 4.4.2012

Mace & Crown staff Justin Brown Editor in Chief editorinchief@maceandcrown.com Derek Page News Editor news@maceandcrown.com Alyssa Narvell Arts & Entertainment Editor artsandentertainment@maceandcrown.com Matthew McCracken Sports Editor sports@maceandcrown.com Jessica Starr Copy Editor copy@maceandcrown.com Elaina Ellis Photography Editor photo@maceandcrown.com Megan Jefferson Graphic Design layout@maceandcrown.com James Porter Advertising Director advertising@maceandcrown.com LJ Harris Web Designer webmaster@maceandcrown.com James Porter Distribution Manager jport027@odu.edu Ethan Shaw Arts & Entertainment Assistant Jake Ullrich Sports Assistant Ari Gould Photography Assistant Senior Writers: Ben Decowski RJay Molina Staff Writers: Janah Stokes Alexander Rose Jessica Scheck Steve Knauer Gianina Thompson Lauren Grant Emma Needham Elizabeth Bowry Megan Stamper Jordan Jones MaryAnn Jackson Jessica Piland Nour Kheireddine Lateesha Gloston Shawn Minor Siaga Johnson Sarah Roby Angel Dodson Andrew Tompkins Daniel Felarca Rashad Little Brian Jerry Haja Kabba Allison Terres Timothy Fulghum Staff Photographers: Chris Sampson Rachel Chasin Jake Zimmerman Binh Dong Lauren Makely Alfred Greg Marlie De Clerck General Information: The Mace & Crown is a newspaper published by and written for the students of Old Dominion once a week throughout each semester and once in the summer. Originally founded in 1930 as the The High Hat, the paper became the Mace & Crown in 1961. The Mace & Crown is a primarily self-supporting newspaper,maintaining journalistic independance from the university. All views expressed in this collegiate paper are those of the author, not of the University, Mace & Crown, or the editors. Contact Information: Phone: 757-683-3452 Fax: 757-683-3459 Advertising: 757-683-4773

Letter From the Editor

The article that was written about this event is by a staff writer and had no input from anyone on the Editorial Board due to the fact that these changes have come about with members of the board. The Mace & Crown released a statement to be used in the article, but other than that, we left the article up to her. We are proud to serve ODU as your student newspaper and hope you continue to read our publication.

Readers of the Mace & Crown,

Some changes have happened within our newspaper this week. We have decided to change Editors in Chief. After much thought and deliberation, David Bakhshaee has been removed from his position. We wish him the best of luck and success with all of his future endeavors. We felt that we owed it to our readers to be transparent with this information. The Mace & Crown is one of the bigger organizations on campus and just as it would be with any other student organization, we felt it necessary to report on ourselves. The journalistic integrity of this paper is the most important thing to us as a staff and we hope that we keep you as informed as we possibly can.

Best Regards, Justin Brown Editor in Chief

The Mace & Crown Votes to Remove Editor in Chief By: Megan Stamper Staff Writer

The Mace & Crown has made changes to the editorial board effective immediately. David Bakhshaee will no longer be the Editor in Chief of the student newspaper. Some issues transpired leading to a vote by the Editorial Staff of the newspaper last Thursday. A statement from the Editorial Board was released Friday. “The Mace & Crown student newspaper has decided to part ways with David Bakh-

may be removed from office by a threefourths vote of the Editorial Board of Directors. All board members must be contacted and attend if possible.” The vote for removal of Bakhshaee resulted with seven in favor, zero against and one for an abstention This is the first time an Editor in Chief has been removed from the Mace & Crown. The newspaper will be moving forward with the former News Editor, Justin Brown, as the Editor in Chief.

shaee as Editor in Chief due to a conflict of interest and personnel issues. While we wish Bakhshaee continued success, we determined that it was in the best interest for our newspaper to move in a different direction.” The Editorial Board is not elaborating on the background, beyond the statement, for the decision to remove Bakhshaee. Bakhshaee said, “I accept their decision to move in a different direction and wish them all success.” According to Section C of the Mace & Crown constitution, “The Editor in Chief

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Wednesday 4.4.2012 | MACE & CROWN | A3

Dear Monarchs, I had the distinct pleasure of serving as a judge for Greek Sing this past week and truly enjoyed serving as judge. I would like to congratulate the Fantastic Four for their truly inspiring performance and victory at this event. This was part of a series of Greek Week events that have brought a great deal of enthusiasm to our campus. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped coordinate these events. In an effort to continue to promote closer ties between SGA and the various student organizations, I would like to invite you to come out to Carniv-All on Kaufman Mall this Friday April 6 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. There will be food, activities and an opportunity to interact with the nearly 40 student organizations that are participating. All proceeds will benefit these student organizations. I will be participating in the dunk tank booth, so be sure to take the opportunity to soak your student body president. I look forward to seeing you there as we enjoy the beautiful weather. If you would like your student organization to participate in Carniv-All, or have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact me at lferreir@odu.edu

American Drop Out

Addressing a National Crisis By: Isabel Agosto Contributing Writer One of the biggest issues in America is the increasing rate of student drop outs. More than 7,000 students drop out of school in America each day. Approximately one million students fail to receive a high school diploma each year. Four out of 10 dropouts receive some kind of government assistance and are eight times more likely to become incarcerated. The annual cost to educate a student is $ 9,644. The annual cost to incarcerate a person is $22,600. These alarming statistics, compiled by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), expose a national crisis. Claudio Sanchez, NPR’s education correspondent, explained the relevance of addressing the American dropout rate. He said, “A high school dropout, according to the latest statistics, will earn $200,000 less than a high school graduate over his or her lifetime, and almost $1million less than a college graduate. The unemployment rate for dropouts right now is anywhere from 15 to 18 percent, double what it is for high school graduates. It represents just an enormous loss of human potential.” The unemployment rate does not only affect the unemployed. When asked how the dropout rate correlates to tax dollars, Sanchez highlighted that estimates are “anywhere from $320 billion to $350 billion to taxpayers. That’s in lost wages, taxable income, health, welfare, incarceration costs.” On May 3, 2011 CPB launched a significant public media initiative to help address and improve America’s high school graduation rate. CPB announced, “Recognizing a need to help students stay on path to graduation, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, with participation from PBS, America’s Promise Alliance and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, is announcing an initiative program, American Gradu-

continued from “Bike” (A1) very powerful experience. You can’t help but to get emotionally attached to the home as well as being attached to a family you haven’t even met. Working with affordable housing organizations is something that I see myself doing for the rest of my life.” This is Richardson’s second and last year with Bike & Build, as riders are only permitted two summers to participate. For him, community service means “getting the community itself involved in an issue. If you are able to raise awareness, you spread the word which gets more people involved. Helping others is an amazing feeling and that is what Bike & Build is all about.” Since 2003, the last nine seasons of Bike & Build have raised and donated more than $3.3 million. Riders are also required to raise $4,500 individually in order to participate. The four will be departing from different sites, with different groups, and will arrive at different final destinations. “I am so, so excited to just get off the east coast,” said Uperti. “One other thing I’m excited to see is our final destination, Cannon Beach. My favorite movie of all time is the Goonies, and the rock on Cannon Beach is a trademark. I’m going to truffle shuffle all the way to the west coast.” Of course, a cross country cycling

trip is nothing to take lightly. Each rider has pledged to complete 500 road miles before the start of the trip. As a group, the four pledged to also complete an additional 65 mile trip to North Carolina. There are eight different routes riders take, some taking them through mountain ranges like the Appalachian’s and the Rockies. With such an intimidating feat ahead of them, the four are taking all measures to ensure they are as ready as possible for the 10 weeks of biking 70 miles a day. They are getting in as much time as they can riding their bikes and taking cycling classes at the Student Recreation Center. Uperti said, “I don’t think there is any way to mentally prepare yourself for a behemoth of an adventure that I’m taking on this summer,” but said she is still very excited. Richardson encourages anyone who is interested to participate. “You will never regret it. It is such an incredible experience that words cannot come close to describe what it is. The friendships, adventures, experiences and service you will have are one of a kind. You will remember this for the rest of your life.” For more information, please visit bikeandbuild.org.

High school drop out rates are increasing at alarming rates.

ate, to combat the dropout crisis in this country.” Local radio and television stations are at the center of the initiative. WHRO Public Media received a grant from the American Graduate initiative in order to facilitate its resources and services to help develop a communal consciousness and lower the dropout rate of the area. Hampton Roads has one of the highest high school dropout rates in Virginia. According to the Virginia Department of Education, Norfolk is the lowest performing district in Hampton Roads.. The district has a division dropout rate of 15.3 percent and an on time graduation rate of 73.6 percent. Zachary Rubin, a senior at Old Dominion University, is completing his student teaching, which requires him to teach seven weeks in a high school and seven weeks in a middle school. Rubin was first assigned to Maury High School in Norfolk and is currently teaching at Brandon Middle School in Virginia Beach When asked what differences existed between the two school districts, he emphasized how disproportionately underequipped Norfolk public schools (NPS) are. One example, he explained, is the NPS paper limit. “Teachers in Norfolk are given one box of paper per month, whereas teachers in Virginia Beach have no limitation on paper use. This may seem like a miniscule detail, but printed materials are a staple in every classroom and having to ration supplies forces an educator to alter their lesson plans accordingly,” said Rubin. With the presidential elections fast approaching, many Americans are holding the state of the economy as the most pressing issue. Rubin said, “Educated workers are the foundation for economic prosperity. In order to see economic growth, America needs individuals who are not dependent on tax dollars but rather contributing to tax revenues.” Visit www.cpb.org/americangraduate/ and www.whro. org/hom/html/american-graduate/ to support the reformation of America’s education system.

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& A Celebration of Cultures Wednesday 4.4.2012 | MACE & CROWN | B1

arts entertainment

at Old Dominion University By: Lateesha Gloston Staff Writer With the diversity of the student body, ODU’s fourth annual International Festival allowed for different cultures to come together and learn about one another. On April 1, the Ted Constant Convocation Center filled with people from all over the world coming to celebrate cultures. From 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., people enjoyed various foods, crafts and performances. Countless cultures were celebrated, including those of Iran, Spain, Africa, the Caribbean and Morocco. Hampton Roads local Juanita Spady was most excited about the food and the performances. “I just love culture, especially when it comes together with other cultures and the fact that children are going to be here.” Various organizations, such as Tau Sigma National, the African-Caribbean Association, and Heaven Bound International, set up tables with crafty entertainment. Face painting, mask decorating and jewelry making were offered. Outside of the Ted, children enjoyed petting animals, like Scottish

bulls and baby pigs. Eight year old Jackie Stroud said her favorite part about the animals was “touching them and feeling them.” One student, Hind Hakour, informed guests on Moroccan culture. She decided to attend ODU after a two year visit in America. “I chose ODU because my friends are here and …I go to business school. I’m a double major in account and finance, so I know they have a good department… that’s what made me choose ODU over the others.” Thai, Israeli, Puerto Rican, Greek, Southern, Creole and Turkish foods were provided in a global cafe. Local restaurants April, De Rican Chef, Grapevine Restaurant, Mary Helen’s, Mayflower Café and Bangkok Garden provided the food. Different organizations took to the stage for an array of performances that included singing and dancing along to the music of different cultures. With handmade crafts sold by vendors, the ability of guests to create their own crafts, diverse food, music and entertainment, ODU was able to teach Hampton Road attendees about a variety of cultures.

Many participants displayed paraphernalia of their culture.

Hundreds of Hampton Roads locals experience the International Festival.

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Wednesday 4.4.2012 | MACE & CROWN | B2

A Celebration All About Me of Success and

Consistency ODU’s First Health Conference Members of the Women’s Center celebrate Women’s History Month. By: Emma Needham Staff Writer

The Women’s Center at ODU celebrated its thirty-fifth anniversary with a reception in the Perry Library Learning Commons conference room on March 29. The Women’s Center was founded in October 1976 and is the oldest center on a Virginia college campus that has served students for over 35 years. The center began as a re-entry program to transition women into the workforce and has since grown tremendously, evolving into a “multifaceted program,” according to Women’s Center director Julie Dodd. Dodd has been working for the Women’s Center for 30 of the 35 years the center has existed. Dodd is the woman who has initiated the center’s growth. Betsy Gregory, a worker for the ODU Research Foundation, stressed the importance of having this center. Being a woman who majored in the sciences, I know how hard it

is to progress. My two daughters are also in male dominated jobs, and it is wonderful that ODU has had this so long. It is a wonderful contribution to Virginia.” In one year, the center serves 7,000 individuals. ODU President, John R. Broderick, opened the reception. He touched on the center’s growth since it was first founded. Dodd followed him by speaking about the center and its history. The Women’s Center offers many programs such as S.A.F.E., or Sexual Assault Free Environment, W.I.L.D., which is Women’s Institute for Leadership Development, and many more which deal with women’s education, sexual equality and different crisis services. Verlaine Quinniey, a program attendee, is a volunteer at the Women’s Center. “I think it is important to be involved, especially as a woman. They provide so many services, and I actually just participated in W.I.L.D. I highly encourage participation.”

By: Amy DeLaura Staff Writer The first ODU Health Conference organized by Mu Omicron Gamma, a Christian fraternity on campus, was held on Saturday, March 31. The idea first came to Lamar Pierce when he and his brother were trying to create a campus wide event for students. They wanted to hold a health conference, so they contacted Kimberly Cholewinski, Health Educator Coordinator with Student Health Services. “[Lamar] came to me in the fall with all his ideas and we were thrilled. Our goal is for every ODU student to be a happy, healthy individual.” Pierce was overwhelmed with the response he got. “All the health services, rec center all jumped on board, they are the ones putting on all these sessions.” Participants began signing in at 8:30 a.m. The first 30 participants got free lunch, the first 100 got a free t-shirt and everyone else got placed in a raffle for a chance to win a $25, $50 or $100 Visa gift card. “This is what got me out of bed this morning,” said student Sarah Robinson There were 12 different sessions and three time slots. Some of the sessions included “Fruits and veggies and more… Oh my!,” “Positive Steps to Help Manage Your ADHD in College,” and “The Comfort Zone.” The first session was about eating healthy. It focused on meal portion sizes, how to make smart choices when planning your meal, and making yourself aware of calories

Spring Career Fair Blooms with New Opportunities for Students By: R Jay Molina Staff Writer A concern burning in the minds of juniors and seniors at Old Dominion involves what to do after walking over the sacred seal and receiving that hardearned diploma. The Career Management Center hosted this semester’s spring career fair on March 29 at the Ted Constant Center. The CMC has been hosting the fair twice annually to prepare students for the future. The fair is held once during the spring semester and once during the fall. It is free and open to current students, now including alumni, families tied to ODU students and those in active duty. Randy Shabro, director of Employer Programs for the CMC, said the CMC has a team of 40 people, including students, that helped out with the fair

with 106 employers and companies coming through at the local, regional and state level to represent themselves to prospective employees. The companies ranged from major companies, to nonprofits, to the health-care industry. Some of the major companies at the fair include AT&T, MetLife and WSKY-TV. To help with the huge wave of employers that could potentially overwhelm a student, the CMC created the “practice room,” placed right by the fair, to help get that nervousness out of them. The goal is to review resumes and put students through a trail run so that they know how to professionally present themselves to employers. The CMC’s goal is to help people find jobs that will kick-start their futures in a positive direction and will continue to host career fairs once a semester.

Employers set up for the spring 2012 Career Fair.

through restaurant websites and dining halls nutrition information. “Only five percent of college students get five servings of fruits and veggies a day. That’s a startling statistic. At the same time though students aren’t aware what a serving size actually is,” Cholewinski explained. The session “Positive Steps to Help Manage Your ADHD in College” put on by Beth Ann Dickie and Lolen Daugherty from the office of Educational Accessibility, focused on school success tips like organization and successful study habits. If a student’s on medication, it’s important to eat the right types of food to help break it down and get the best chemical result from the medicine, said Dickie and Daugherty. The last session was “The Comfort Zone” presented by Betty Davis. She did a meditation breathing exercise for participants. “If I had known she was going to be there I would have brought a tape recorder!” Ammie McCulloch said. McCulloch had gone to the de-stress session last semester put on by Davis and was excited to see Davis doing the same thing again. “Though there was a small turn out this year, we have to remember it is the first year, so no matter the outcome, the ability to get feedback and learn for next year is success enough,” Lamar Pierce explained, “I want a picture so years from now when this gets to be a huge event we can pull out this photo and say ‘hey look where we started.’”

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Wednesday 4.4.2012 | MACE & CROWN | C1

sports

Lady Monarch dance team performs at halftime of an ODU basketball game.

Year-Round Commitment By: Matthew McCracken Sports Editor People notice them at basketball games doing the “Ice Cream and Cake” dance. They notice them at halftime of football games doing a routine with the band. But these ladies are college athletes with a purpose. The dance team’s head coach, Dawn Adams said they’re all about “promoting school spirit for the various sports and activities on campus as well as off campus.” The Monarchs’ dance team has had recent success placing seventeenth in the Division 1 Jazz event at the 2012 Universal Dance Association (UDA) National Dance Team Championship.

This was the Monarchs first time participating at UDA’s, and plan to go back for years to come. Preparing for competitions is essential to the dance team, but they must keep up with their home games for football and men’s and women’s basketball games. They practice Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., but sometimes can add two 6a.m. practices a week if in-between sports and competition season. Their practices can consist of conditioning with high intensity cardio and weights, stretching and abdominal work, and working on dance technique. After all of that, these athletes move on to either cleaning up old dance routines or learning the chore-

monarch mentions • ODU Student-Athletes and Young Alumni hosted ODU Day at Richard Bowling Elementary School in Norfolk, featuring a visit from Big Blue and an Easter Egg hunt. • Kent Bazemore will play in the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament for NBA and overseas scouts on April 11-14 at Churchland high School. • Men’s golfer Neil Henderson was CAA Co-Golfer of the Week last week with a fifth place finish at the C&F Bank Intercollegiate.

ography of new ones. “They have to learn their entry routines while doing football and basketball,” coach Adams said. The UDA’s must accept and invite the Monarchs yearly based off their entry routine video. Ladies interested in trying out must have a 2.0 GPA or higher to participate. If they have over a 2.5 GPA and are a top-10 performer at try-outs, one could be rewarded a student-athlete stipend. “I would encourage them to get to know some of the current members on the team and ask them questions, and also make sure they brush up on their technical skills,” coach Adams said. “It opens up a lot of different opportunities, it’s an easy way to meet people and network,” graduating senior dancer Elizabeth Dioquino said.

An inside look at ODU’s dance team

This past year, the Monarchs had 12 members. There are no captains on the team, but the squad’s leadership comes from all around. They are with one another all year long through ups and downs. “We’re like a family, we spend so much time together,” graduating senior dancer Sarah Hughes said. With a never-ending season, it is important for these dancers to stay in shape. As a dancer, they are required to participate in weight training once or twice a week with Yaw Baidoo, ODU’s assistant strength and conditioning instructor. “We do everything the other sports teams do,” Dioquino said. “The core is essential. They try to keep our cardio up because in order to get through a whole game, it can be long sometimes,” Hughes said.

These dancers are required to perform as much as other student-athletes. Coach Adams said the biggest misconception is “They don’t work as hard [as other sports], but they practice three times a week, are in the training room once or twice a week. They are the one group that practice and perform year round with no off season.” On top of preparing for home games and competitions, the Monarchs participate in community service and fundraising for the department. Tryouts for the 2012-2013 Old Dominion dance team start on May 11. After two days of clinics, the final audition is May 13 from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. For additional information please contact Dawn Adams, spirit squad coordinator, at dcadams@odu. edu.

Athlete of the Week:

Dillon Paiva ODU Sailor

Paiva was named to the 2012 U.S. Sailing Development Team earlier this month. The Team consists of 52 sailors from across the country supported by the U.S. Olympic Sailing Committee.

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Wednesday 4.4.2012 | MACE & CROWN | C2

A Fairway Drive to the Putting Green First year women’s head coach brings leadership, championship pedigree By: Brian Jerry Staff Writer Carol Robertson is in her first year as Old Dominion’s women’s golf coach. “I had high expectations for these girls. I knew they had a lot of potential, but I can honestly say they’re even surprising me, which is a good thing,” coach Robertson said on her team’s performance on the course in the 2011-12 campaign. In her first year in charge after assisting in both the men’s and women’s programs, the former LGPA Future’s Tour competitor and James Madison alum has led Old Dominion to six topthree finishes in tournaments including a second place earning March 25 in the UNCW Seahawk Classic. The Lady Monarchs were led by junior Samantha Morrell and finished just six strokes shy of East Carolina to claim the crown. Coach Robertson commended Morrell, as well as soph-

omore Elizabeth Haycock on earning conference honors for CAA Golfer of the Week after leading the team to a second place finish in the Pinehurst Challenge. “Liz [Haycock] just knows the game and doesn’t get real upset and knows that a couple of bogies doesn’t cost her a round,” Robertson said. “Mentally, golf can wear on you with those things, but not with her. We call her Rudy because she’s just this little ‘ol girl, you look at her and she looks like she’s up against giants yet time after time, she comes in with great scores.” After taking over for former coach Pat Kotten, the former VSGA junior golf club tournament director in Hampton Roads gave insight as to what she’s learned from both her and men’s golf coach Murray Rudisill as their assistant that’s helped Robertson transition into her new role. “Especially being around Murray [Rudisill] for the last couple of years,

he’s just been doing this for 35 years, so we joke that he’s the dean of the coaches around here so any questions I have I modeled it along after him,” Robertson said. “I’m really lucky to be surrounded by a lot of good people.” “When I got here, they were trying to squeeze shots through trees this big and I’m like no. Now you went from an easy bogey to making an eight,” Robertson said.” Seniors Connie Farmer and Kristin Hagan are currently in their final season as collegiate golfers and Robertson, a former NGCA All-American Scholar Athlete discussed how vital they are to the rest of the women from a leadership standpoint and the advice she’s given them on how to achieve at

the next level. “They’re huge and just both great women. Connie [Farmer], I tell her all the time that I’ve never heard her complain, not one time and she’s just a joy to be around and to have on all these trips. Kristen [Hagan] is our captain and has been a great captain,” Robertson said. “She keeps everybody in line and makes sure the girls are doing what I expect of them.” With only the Hoya Invitational remaining before the CAA Championships in South Port, North Carolina beginning April 20, coach stressed what the team is zeroing in on in terms of key mechanical adjustments in preparation for the tournament and some of the goals and expectations as

the calendar turns toward the end of the season. “Physically, they’re ready. We’ve got a great trainer in coach Mack, they’re all physically ready, their swings are great, their short games are doing well. We’ve just got to make sure they’re confident,” Robertson said. “That they go out there and that their minds are that they know they can win. We’ve just got to keep that attitude until the end of CAA’s and hopefully we’re holding the trophy.” Robertson and the Lady Monarchs have improved massively this year, and plan to finish strong at the CAA Tournament and in years to come.

to a Tidewater affiliate of Susan G. Komen’s foundation. Like any sports team, these rowers thrive off of awards. Their novice boys placed fifth at a race in Occoquan, Virginia this past fall. At the end of every season, they pick a Rower of the Year for both men and women.

Uperti was fortunate enough to win this award last year. The Monarchs have two more races left in the spring semester. They will travel to New Jersey to participate in the Knecht Cup April 14 and 15. Rowing club participates fall through spring, but has summers off.

If interested, contact Emily Uperti, euper002@odu.edu. To interested rowers, Uperti’s advice is to “just give it a try.”

Volunteer Athletes: Old Dominion’s Rowing Club By: Matthew McCracken Sports Editor Some students are not fortunate enough to receive a scholarship for a sport, but that doesn’t mean they lose their love for athletics. Old Dominion’s rowing club is a perfect example. “We take everyone no matter what, there are no set requirements. We’ll teach you the basics, you don’t have to have any experience,” rowing president Emily Uperti said. All an individual has to do is pass a 500-meter swim test and pay $150 a semester along with $75 for a uniform. “If money is an issue, we do work out a payment plan. If you are willing to row, and you are dedicated to it and show up, I’m willing to work with anybody,” Uperti said. These athletes practice about ten minutes from ODU’s campus at Lakewood Park. According to Uperti, they wake up around 4:30 a.m. Once at the boathouse, they must get their coaches’ boats, ores, and their own boats. From

there, they work on technique drills such as catching their blades at the same time before moving on to endurance rowing. Their boats are back on the dock by 7 a.m. “It’s a big game of copy cat. No one does their own thing in this sport. It’s all one unit doing the same thing. Everything has to be done together,” Uperti said. Men and women are allowed to join the rowing club. Both genders practice twice a week, and then one practice is held with the team as a whole. Coaches and coxswains are to be at every practice. Their coach, Benjamin LeBrun, rowed for Cornell University. He is also a rower for the Hampton Roads Rowing Club in Norfolk. “He’s very focused on the more scientific part of rowing. He draws diagrams for us,” Uperti said. These volunteer rowers of Old Dominion have participated in local yard work as well as raising over $2,000 from “Row for a Cure” for breast cancer awareness. All the proceeds went

2012 Women’s LACROSSE

CONFERENCE PLAY KICKS OFF THIS WEEKEND! FRIDAY: 7:00PM FIRST DRAW

SUNDAY 1:00PM FIRST DRAW

All Games Played at the Powhatan Sports Complex • Keep up with all the action on Twitter @ODULacrosse

Summer Study In The Sun

Advance your academic progress without giving up your summer. Coastal Carolina University offers four flexible sessions for an array of undergraduate, graduate and study abroad courses for both enrolled and visiting students. The University’s close proximity to the Myrtle Beach resort area allows for serious study without giving up opportunities for summer jobs and summer fun.

• Maymester (May 7 - June 1) • Summer I (June 4 - July 6) • Summer 8-week (June 4 - July 24) • Summer II (July 9 - Aug. 10)

www.coastal.edu/summerstudy

For more information, email summerstudy@coastal.edu.

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C3 | MACE & CROWN | Wednesday 4.4.2012

Team Player Above All By: Jake Ullrich Assistant Sports Editor Rebecca Hartrum could have had a couple good answers for what her favorite memory of ODU lacrosse was. The senior from Springfield, Pennsylvania scored the game winner with 15 seconds left in overtime against George Mason in 2010. Or when she scored three goals, including the game winner in 10-9 win against George Mason the next year. Or even when she scored two goals against North Carolina in 2011. But those moments aren’t the ones Hartrum loves when she thinks about her team. “[My favorite moment] was definitely my freshman year when we beat UVA at home,” Hartrum said. Hartrum didn’t start or score that game, but it is the perfect example of the selflessness she demonstrates on and off the field. A true team player, Hartrum wants her team to succeed, knowing her success will come with that. It is sometimes too rare of a trait for an athlete, especially one with the skill of Hartrum. She’s started every game since the start of her sophomore year, scoring 17 goals last season.

The 5-foot-6-inch communications major has been playing lacrosse most of her life, citing her town’s excellent youth lacrosse system for why she loves the game so much. She dabbled in multiple sports in high school, but she was the most talented at, as well as enjoyed the most, lacrosse. After playing well her senior year, Hartrum was approached by multiple schools to continue her career. “I actually didn’t really know much about ODU at first,” Hartrum said. “But Sarah Geary [Old Dominion’s starting goalie], came here and that just sparked my interest. “I came down and visited and really liked it.” Hartrum made a solid impact her freshman year, appearing in 13 games and scoring two goals, but she began to really make her impact the following years. Hartrum, who plays attack, has greatly improved her overall game since arriving in 2009. “My goal is to get goals,” Hartrum said. “But I feel like I have a pretty good field sense. And now being a senior, I’m trying to help the younger kids get that, trying to get everyone working together on the field.” Hartrum has embraced her role as

a senior leader, trying to be more involved on and off the field. “It’s a lot different [being a senior],” Hartrum said. “You have to step up as a player and be a role model. Definitely more responsibility on the field with getting things going, getting people where they need to be and communicating better.” Although Hartrum admits it isn’t tough to be a leader off the field because of the fantastic chemistry the women possess. Calling this “the closest team” she’s had since being at Old Dominion, Hartrum admitted the team all gets along well, always enjoying road trips. The team, who is currently 3-7, has plenty of room to improve, but Hartrum believes that time isn’t too far away. “We’ve had a couple one goal games and that’s been huge,” Hartrum said. “We haven’t gotten a consistent play for a whole game. We’ll play really well in the first half and then dwindle in the second. We’re hoping to get it all together.” With the dedication and skill Hartrum has shown, it seems like a pretty good chance they will.

Match Point Diana Ivanova looks to return a ball.

By: Jordan Jones Staff Writer

Rebecca Hartrum running down the field looking to create offense for the Lady Monarchs.

Old Dominion’s Diana Ivanova has become a household name in women’s college tennis with her dominating play and charisma on and off the court. The junior from Moscow has complied an impressive career record of 37-22 in singles and 32-25 in doubles competition with her partner. She has separated herself as a star this year as she has compiled a record of 10-1 in singles and also has a record of 10-1 in doubles competition with partner Esnal Olguin. She attributes a lot of her success to the coaching staff in place here at Old Dominion. “I think at the beginning of my junior year we had new coaches,” Ivanova said, “so we’ve been playing better and practicing hard.” Ivanova has always been a hard worker throughout her career and those that follow her even saw shades of greatness last year. She was named a second team All CAA performer in singles while playing most of the year at number two. This year she has shown vast improvement by playing the entire year at number one. The ODU tennis coaching staff has done a great job of creating a family

atmosphere around the team and clearly Ivanova has benefited from that. “They always ask what’s happening in our lives, what we need, and what can they do to help us play better,” Ivanova said. Ivanova has a very well rounded game over all and realizes that there are some strengths and weaknesses of her game. “Most days I have a strong forehand and backhand. I also could play a variety of spots on the court.” Coming from Russia wasn’t an easy transition for Ivanova, but she has seemed to make the transition flawlessly. “It wasn’t that hard to adjust,” she said. “My teammates and coaches helped me a lot.” Her favorite sports personality is tennis star and fellow Russian Maria Sharapova who she studies. The Old Dominion tennis team is full of individuals from other countries and this speaks well of the scouting as well as the diversity at the school in general. After Old Dominion, Ivanova hopes to play tennis and if that doesn’t pan out, find a good job. Ivanova and the Lady Monarchs next match is against William and Mary at home on April 6.

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Wednesday 4.4.2012 | MACE & CROWN | C4

ODU Baseball

Old Dominion 3 vs UNCW 7 AB Wright, Josh 3 Sizemore, Shawn 3 Eldridge, Josh 4 Burney, Joey 4 Verlander, Ben 3 Tutwiler, Josh 1 Shelton, Brandon 4 Perez, Michael 3 Coker, Drew 1 Belgrave, Kenneth 3 Frazier, Brent 2 McGowan, Austin 1 Total 32

Old Dominion (10-17)

R 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 3

H 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 3 0 0 9

March 31 Game 2 RBI BB SO PO A LOB 1 1 1 2 6 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 5 0 0 1 0 0 10 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 4 24 8 7

T he CAA

S core C orner

ON THE MOUND March 31 Game 2

Old Dominion Smith, Brandon Huyett, C.J. Bratton, Dylan

IP 3.0 3.0 2.0

H 6 2 2

R 6 1 0

ER 6 1 0

SO 4 0 1

BB 2 1 2

Men’s Tennis

Women’s Lacrosse

Old Dominion 14 vs W&M 10

21 Johnson, Courtney 25 Rea, Christina TM Team Totals

GA 0 3 3 0 3 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 14

## Goalie 32 Geary, Sarah

MIN 60:00

Old Dominion (4-7)

32 Geary, Sarah 1 Reymann, Rebecca 2 Bernardini, Lisa 4 Collins, Jordynn 5 Wright, Sarah 6 Austerberry, Emily 7 Burns, Alexandra 10 Dragon, Alyssa 14 McCormick, Kallie 20 Davis, Shelby 22 Hartrum, Rebecca 30 McBee, Hannah 11 Clough, Courtney 15 Rogers, Meredith 17 Bermingham, Mary 18 Bermingham, Kate

A 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Sh GB DC TO CT FPS Foul 0 5 0 0 2 6 0 2 1 0 1-3 9 3 5 0 1 0-2 2 0 0 3 0 0-2 5 5 2 2 2 2 1-1 2 1 2 0 1 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 6 0 0 4 2 1 1 0 1 2 2 3 1 0 1 0 1-2 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 2 0 1-1 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 28 23 10 15 13 4-11 23

GA 10

DEC W

1 1

2 4

Saves 5

ODU 7 Temple 0

Doubles 1. Cetinel/Fahoum (ODU) over Stekolshikov/Vasconez (TU) 8-2 2. Ochagavia/Lopez Villa (ODU) over Vizhunov/Marquart (TU) 8-5 3. Muzalewski/Rodriguez (ODU) over Hairston/Gishkaev (TU) 8-4 Singles 1. Krzysztof Muzalewski (ODU) over Filip Rams (TU) 6-1, 6-1 2. Carlos Lopez Villa (ODU) over Stanislav Stekolshikov (TU) 6-0, 6-0 3. Albert Ochagavia (ODU) over Kristian Marquart (TU) 6-3, 6-4 4. Wesley Barrett (ODU) over Dmitry Vizhunov (TU) 6-4, 6-3 5. Can Cetinel (ODU) over Taylor Hairston (TU) 6-2, 6-3 6. Alfredo Rodriguez (ODU) over Mansur Gishkaev (TU) 6-2, 6-4

Women’s Tennis ODU 4 Richmond 3 Doubles: 1. Cunningham/Smyth (UR) def. Ivanova/Mitrovska (ODU) 8-4 2. Kandinata/Sims (UR) def. Esnal Olguin/Pires (ODU) 8-5 3. Matuszczyk/Horoz (UR) def. Khmolovska/Atiso (ODU) 8-3 Singles: 1. Diana Ivanova (ODU) def. Joanna Matuszczyk (UR) 6-3, 6-0 2. Aleksandra Mitrovska (ODU) def. Melissa Kandinata (UR) 7-6(1), 3-6, 7-6(1) 3. Melissa Esnal Olguin (ODU) def. Helen Cunningham (UR) 1-6, 6-4, 6-3 4. Elizabeth Sims (UR) def. Juliana Pires (ODU) 6-7, 6-1, 6-3 5. Nika Khmolovska (ODU) def. Alexandra Smyth (UR) 7-5, 6-2 6. Nil Horoz def. Faith Atiso (ODU) 6-2, 6-0

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D1 | MACE & CROWN | Wednesday 4.4.2012

opinions SEXcapades Our Impending Doom By: Easy A Staff Writer

Attention Old Dominion students, spring is among us, a.k.a. arguably the worst season ever. It is filled with pollen, pale people and unwanted stomach rolls. Spring is my wake-up call to stop eating all the junk food and whip myself back into shape for the summer. Spring brings the warmer weather, and worst of all, shorts. I know all the men on campus are excited to see female bodies come out from hibernation, but mine, not so much... I am whiter than white rice. With the impending doom of spring, I have decided to instill in you, confidence to make it through the brutal season. Self-confidence is important because it affects every aspect of your life. The biggest impact is on your sex life. Being secure in your body will make or break a sexual encounter. You should have confidence so strong that it will exude and make your partner want you. This past week, my roommate and I were bored. We decided to do the girly thing and get dressed up to take photos. We decided to have a sexy photo shoot in our living room to make ourselves feel better about our bodies. We put on fresh makeup, our best lingerie, and took turns photograph-

ing each other. Setting up the scene was easy. I taped a white sheet on the wall and pushed our coffee table underneath of it and covered it with the matching fitted sheet. I turned off all the lights in the room and had a $10 construction lamp pointed at a 45-degree angle to the set. The angle was important because it will create shadows that flatter curves and define muscles. When we sat down and looked at the photographs afterwards, we were both pleasantly surprised with the outcome. As we looked through my photos, my roommate complimented me on the things she liked about my photos and I did the same for her. It was a huge ego boost. I had a hard time trying to criticize these photographs... I just looked hot. Men can take photographs of themselves too. Nothing makes a female’s mind wander more than the “V.” For example, Ryan Reynolds has a great V. The “V” is the lines on a man’s waist that eventually lead to his penis. Even those mirror shoots with an iPhone will make you see things about yourself that you don’t notice on a daily basis. Remember, you are hot and someone wants a piece of what you got. Confidence is sexy, so show it off.

National Beer Day By: Derek Page News Editor

Beer is one of the world’s most ancient and universally cherished beverages. Each culture has their own unique way of doing things when it comes to beer. The Germans have their laws preventing anything but exceptional brews to be produced, the English with their nice warm hop-less ales, and America has our fizzy yellow piss water. Its cans are littering the streets of every college town where kids have grown too stupid to know the difference between good taste and inebriation. As the unofficial holiday New Beer’s Eve approaches, I find myself wondering what the more suitable beverage to consume in celebration is. New Beers Eve refers to April 6, the day before the end of prohibition, April 7, 1933. While my immediate instinct is to go for the craft beer, made with all the attention a mother would give a child, using only the finest of ingredients and a tenderness and integrity any microbrew would hold themselves to, I feel somewhat inclined to grab an overly transparent, watered down Bud Light. Why would I make such a horrendous choice? To pay homage to the worst 14 years in American history, of course. Prohibition didn’t completely absolve all production of alcoholic beverages. There were still underground breweries and speakeasies that would conjure up their own

concoctions of liquid courage. As a way to conserve the limited resources and ingredients, and get the most out of their covert efforts, beer brewers would profusely water down their products. In other words, water was to beer as baking soda is to cocaine. Unfortunately, the trend caught on even after prohibition and left the average American palate weak and inadvertently complacent with menial and lifeless beer. The Cullen-Harrison Act of 1933 may also have had a role

“Good people drink good beer.”

– Hunter S. Thompson

in this unfortunate shift in American brewing. For those who are unaware, this is what brought alcohol back into the homes of the American people. Though it ended prohibition, all beer had to have alcohol content by volume of no more than 3.2 percent. This was thought to be too low for intoxication. To me, that just means drink more. It was sponsored by Senator Pat Harrison and Representative Thomas H. Cullen and enacted by Congress on March 21, 1933 and signed by the man himself, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the following day, legalizing the sale of beer. The act was made effective on April 7, 1933, which means this Saturday will mark the seventy-ninth anniversary of the end of prohibition. I understand not every college stu-

dent has the money to buy the nicer beers, and I myself enjoy Pabst Blue Ribbon when the funds are tights, but I strongly encourage anyone with a shred of respect for the craft of beer to branch out and try something new. If you’re skeptical, don’t be, it’s the cool thing to do these days anyway. Craft brewers have been doing exceptionally well these days too. As the watered down beer market continues to become watered down, the Brewers Association reported crafter brewers saw a 15 percent increase in retail sales and a 13 percent increase in volume in 2011. They estimate the dollar sales figure for craft brewers went up from $7.6 billion in 2010, to $8.7 billion in 2011. This equivocates to a total barrel increase of 1.3 million. No matter what you drink, I hope you will still be honoring the tradition and legacy of beer this Saturday. I still beseech you to substitute one of the many Bud Light’s you may indulge in with something that actually has some flavor. While microbrewers may still be the industry little guy, their products are huge in craftsmanship and a commitment to preserving the integrity of excellent beer. If I haven’t convinced you yet, craft beers often times have higher alcohol content. So on top of having great, complex flavors, it gets you more drunk! Just please remember to drink responsibly. CHEERS!

Gaming of 2012 How epic will it be? By: Steven Knauer Staff Writer 2011 was a good year to be a gamer, but can the same be said about this year? It can be hard to gauge an entire year from the beginning, but by looking at some of the titles announced for 2012 and the hype behind them, we can at least get excited about our personal anticipations. Some of these titles are well known and are destined to do well, while some are more of a risk. Some might know about Blizzard’s stake on the gaming world, but for those who may have missed the news, “Diablo 3” has finally been given a release date of April 15. This game has been in production since 2007 and is finally coming out this year. Fans of the “Diablo” series are sure to enjoy this iteration with new classes such as the Demon Hunter, the Monk and the Witch Doctor and returning classes like the Barbarian. Blizzard seems quite excited about this sequel and being the company they are, they always put out a polished game. Gearbox’s “Borderlands 2” promises to have “870 bajillion more guns,” “1000 degrees hotter,” and “96.5 percent more ‘wub wub’” As ludicrous as this sounds,“Borderlands,” is a game based on crazy statistics. There are new classes and apparently a lot more guns. The joke about that is the guns have randomly generated statistics, so the chances are innumerable. “Wub wub” apparently has to do with Gearbox’s new fascination with the popular dubstep music genre. Sept. 18 will be known as the day of crazy numbers. “The Last of Us,” to be presented by Naughty Dog, is definitely going to be a triple-A title. A post-apocalyptic adventure game where the focus is more on the survivors than the zombies/mutants/what have you. From the makers of “Uncharted,” Naughty Dog knows how to set a stage and tell a story. The most interesting part of the game is the scarcity of ammunition and guns. A survival game doesn’t do its job very well if the player doesn’t feel threatened because he has a small arsenal in their pocket. If anyone can

make a more realistic survival-horror game, it’s Naughty Dog. The day of the apocalypse hasn’t been announced yet, but it will apparently be some time in 2012. Firaxis came back from the dead to make “Xcom: Enemy Unknown.” With the first-person-shooter simply named “Xcom” coming out in the same year, some fans of the old series were upset by the change in direction; changing from a tactical game to a first-person-shooter. To appease these fans, Firaxis stepped in to make a more accurate sequel of the ‘90s games. Of course both games have their fans, but being that the tactics market has been very small lately, “Enemy Unknown”

2012 has some good hype to it, but will the games live up to it? could very well reboot the series, or at least to the hopes of some of us. In the fall of 2012, aliens and super cool agents will fight over Earth. Another triple-A title every gamer should be looking forward to is “Assassin’s Creed 3.” Finally departing from Ezio’s timeline, the overarching story will continue and will most likely answer many questions. The game will follow an assassin named Connor in the times of colonial America. There hasn’t been many details revealed, but the developers promise the change of setting, being from large cities to small colonies with huge forests in between, will be an exciting change of pace, altering the gameplay with a breath of fresh air. The answers to “The Truth” will be revealed on Oct. 30. 2012 has some good hype to it, but will the games live up to it? I guess we won’t find out until we are knee deep in games. If all goes according to plan, my readers, I will give you my review or all of the previously mentioned games and you can decide for yourself if they are worth it. So, here’s to a new year in gaming.

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Wednesday 4.4.2012 | MACE & CROWN | D2

“American Idol”

Versus “The Voice” By: Brian Jerry Staff Writer

“Dim the lights, here we go…” said a calm but focused Ryan Seacrest who’s standing adjacent to the bottom two American Idol Season 10 contestants Pia Toscano and Stefano Langone. “After the nationwide vote, the person leaving us tonight is…Pia.” A completely shocked Langone raises his head in utter disbelief, as he was certain this was the end of the road for him, but it was not. Also visibly shocked was longtime judge Randy Jackson, who voiced his displeasure along with the rest of the panel. “I’m not gonna lie, I’m mad right now. You’re one of the best singers we got here,” Jackson said to a tearful Toscano before a round of applause by the audience in Hollywood, California. This is just one of the many infamous moments in the show’s history, which is currently in its eleventh season in 2012. Jackson is joined alongside actress, recording artist, entertainment mogul and entrepreneur Jennifer Lopez and lead singer to one of the most iconic rock bands of all time, Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler. While the show still maintains its hardcore fan base and maintains its role as Fox’s number one rated show, Idol has also had to fair with the likes of stiff reality singing competition on a rival network, NBC’s “The Voice.” The show consists of four coaches, reigning Country Music Awards male vocalist of the year, Blake Shelton, five time Grammy award winner, Christina Aguilera, multi-platinum recording artist Cee Lo Green, and Maroon 5 lead vocalist Adam Levine.

Hosted by Carson Daly, the singing competition consists of blind auditions where coaches have their backs turned away from the stage while contestants sing in an effort to amaze. The judges critique the singers solely on the sound of their voice. If they like what they hear, the coaches will push a red button that spins their chair around, which guarantees the singer a spot on the show. If more than one coach pushes the button, the power is shifted over to the contestant as to which team of 12 members they would like to join. Thus far, the competition has proved to be an attention grabber. Following a successful first season won by Connecticut native Javier Colon, who received a $100,000 recording contract with Universal Republic Records, the competition returned with strong ratings fueled by the season premiere which aired directly following the Super Bowl. This season, both shows are competing on separate nights. While “American Idol” consists of the top eight contestants, NBC’s, “The Voice,” heads into the continuation of the live shows following their battle rounds where two contestants faced off with one another by singing the same song in a duet in search of who stands out. While “The Voice” gets primarily positive media reviews from being fresh and different from “ American Idol,” these are my reasons as to why “American Idol” still reigns supreme: 1. Undiscovered Talent -“American Idol” searches many cities in the United States for the next best undiscovered talent while “The Voice” opens their auditions to contestants with prior recording contracts.

Although this may seem like an advantage to NBC’s Monday 8 p.m. time slot, the talent of “American Idol” showcases talent with far superior vocal ability than their counterparts. The competition on Fox’s reigning hit show is second to none in terms of searching for talented “stars-in-themaking.” 2. You Need More Than a Voice to Sell -Although “The Voice” prides itself on taking chances on a singer based on his or her voice alone, you need more than just a voice to succeed in the demanding music industry. “American Idol” prides itself on finding not just the best singer, but someone who can sell records, sell out concerts, be a great performer on stage, can be branded internationally and look good. With “American Idol,” contestants range from age 15-28 and there is a limit sufficient enough to find a superstar who can fit the mold into what’s currently selling today. “The Voice” on the other hand, prides itself on finding the best singer, regardless of age, and attempts to sell them on their singing attributes alone. This did wonders for Colon, whose EP “Come Through For You” peaked at number 134 on the US Billboard 200 Charts, selling a not so impressive 9,974 units its first week and was outsold by release of runnerup Dia Frampton’s “Red.” 3. A Great Versus Mediocre Host to Boast -When it comes to entertainment and reality singing competitions, Seacrest is second to none. The power of his words and body gestures alone make him easily the best reality television host out there, bar none. The professionalism and charisma that the

Fiv e R e a s o n s Wh y I do l Re ign s Sup re m e Georgia native brings to the screen is great and you know you’re always on the edge of your seat following those infamous words, “after the nationwide vote.” At that moment, it’s as if he has us hooked on his fishing rod and we are ready to take the bait. In contrast, the host of “The Voice” Carson Daly makes us do the exact opposite. I always feel myself cringe every time the guy opens his mouth. Although he should get better with time, Daly will perhaps never be able to convey the emotion and personality of Seacrest who enters the final year on his contract as host. Here’s to hoping he sticks around for a little longer. 4. Better Production Makes a Better Product “American Idol” prides itself on being not just the best reality singing competition, but the number one show on television. The contestants also have as much time to perform and not have to go through endless bickering between the judges. Unlike “American Idol,” “The Voice’s” coaches share competitive banter amongst themselves and the viewing audience at home by bragging about who has the best team between the four of them rather than letting the contestants shine on their own. As a result, Season 11 will be remembered for “Idol” hopefuls Phillip Phillips Jr., Heejun Han, Reed Grimm, Jen Hirsh, Elise Testone and Shannon Magrane making their claim to become the next superstar rather than a bickering match between Jackson, Lopez and Tyler to see who gave the best advice to get them in the competition. So, sorry Jordis Unga, Chris Cauley, and Sarah Golden, but it looks like not many casual fans will be remembering you due to your coaches’

sparring match with each other. In addition to better overall talent and letting the contestants shine on their own, “American Idol” directors Bruce Gowers, Ken Warwick and Gregg Gelfand hire the best lighting and production staff on television to make sure the number one rated show in America is pleasing to the eye. While “The Voice” also puts together a nice production, it seems rather amateur when comparing it to “American Idol,” in that the stage is rather bland like the one you would see on a digitally enhanced version of “Star Search.” 5 – Stardom Speaks for Itself “American Idol” has been the launching pad to several multi-platinum recording artists, including season one winner Kelly Clarkson and country music sensation Carrie Underwood. Other “American Idol” claims to fame include recording artist and Broadway star Fantasia Burrino, former car service worker turned Billboard charts-topper Chris Daughtry, and singer/actress Jordin Sparks. Last year’s “American Idol” winner, 17 year old country kid Scotty McCreery’s debut album “Clear As Day” sold almost 200,000 in its first week and went on to become certified platinum by the R.I.A.A. Simply put, “American Idol” puts its NBC counterpart to shame in almost every category. Everything from the contestants, to fair judgment and production make it king of reality singing competitions. Sure, “American Idol” has been on air for 11 seasons now, but the show has consistently come up with new ways to keep it fresh. I can guarantee you, contrary to the belief of some, the show is here to stay.

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S1 | MACE & CROWN | Wednesday 4.4.2012

sundry

MAZE

IN THE MACE

Level of Difficulty: Easy

Thank you for reading the paper every week! Love, The E-Board

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Wednesday 4.4.2012 | MACE & CROWN | S2

Crossword Puzzle

Sudoku Solution

from Vol. 54 Issue 21

Crossword Solution

from Vol. 54 Issue 21

4/4

ODU Summer Jobs Fest

Stitch-A-Bit

Webb Center, North Mall 10:30am-2pm

Webb Center, North Mall 5-7pm

4/4

4/5

Chandler Recital Hall, Diehn Fine and Performing Arts Center 7-9pm

SAC Novelty:

Interfaith Celebration

Enjoy a night lled with music, poetry, and chants and performance by; Dong Hung Buddhist Temple, Dr. Ravi Mukkamala, Ebony Impact Gospel Choir, Julie Clark, Sai Center of Hampton Roads, Sir Darom of the Simon Family JCC and Swabir Silayi.

Friendship Bracelets Webb Center, South Mall 11am-3pm

Sponsor: CMC 683-4388

Sponsor: Women’s Center 683-4109

Sponsor: OIR 683-4406

Sponsor: SAC 683-4818

4/5

4/6

Pour Your Heart Out:

Interfaith Memorial Service

SAC Special Event:

SAC After Dark:

Eﬀective Communication Strategies for Healthy Relationships

Kaufman Mall 7pm (6 p.m. Create personal tribute remembering loved one)

Webb Center, Chesapeake Rm 12:30-1:30pm

ODU will host an evening reeecting upon the lives of ODU students, faculty and staﬀ. This service is free and open to the ODU community.

Sponsor: Women’s Center 683-4109

Sponsor: UCA, SEES, and ODU Care Team 683-3442

4/9

4/10

Invisible War

A Change of Heart:

Webb Center,River Rooms 7pm

Techniques to Resolve Relationship Connicts Webb Center, Cape Charles Rm 12:30-1:30pm

Sponsor: Women’s Center

Women’s Center

683-4109

Minute to Win it

Golden Dragon

MGB 102 8pm

Webb Center 8pm-12am

Sponsor: SAC 683-4818

4/6

4/7

Live at Wesley! Concert Series

Wesley House, Corner of Elkhorn & 49th Street 8-12pm

8$ at the door: Still, I Rise; Honour Crest; Provoke, Destroy; A Universe Within; Color me Valiant; Parallels www.wesleyhouseodu.org

$7 at the door: Before Him; Blood of the Martyrs; Fat Kid Wins Cake; My Maker and I; Fall of a Sparrow; WeScreamWar www.wesleyhouseodu.org

Sponsor: Tidewater Wesley Foundation, jbhaynes@odu.edu

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