Aug. 27, 2010 | The Miami Student

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The Miami Student Oldest university newspaper in the United States, established 1826

VOLUME 138 NO. 2

Friday, August 27, 2010

MIAMI UNIVERSITY OXFORD, OHIO

In 1984, The Miami Student reported the demolition of Tallawanda Residence Hall. The building was replaced with a parking lot.

Task force to hold forums

By Andrew Duberstien For The Miami Student

With the recent recession, a 10 percent decrease in Ohio’s college-age population and redirection of state resources to an aging baby boomer generation pose an obstacle to Miami’s financial stability in the coming years, change will be occurring. To overcome some of these lingering issues, last semester President David Hodge assembled the Strategic Priorities Task Force (SPT) and charged the members to address these challenges. The SPT was specifically created to “prioritize and align the university’s goals with the new fiscal realities in higher education, to create an outline of a sustainable baseline budget for the Oxford campus and identify strategic options for improving [Miami’s] research base,” an Aug. 19 letter from committee chairs Chris Makaroff and Steve Wyatt said. There are a number of paths to long term solvency that the SPT has brought to attention,

including a slight expansion of Miami’s graduate program, enrolling more out-of-state students, implementing additional fees and hiring more clinical faculty and lecturers. According to a preliminary report released Aug. 19, Miami offers 77 majors for its 14,841 full-time undergraduates. Universities between 10,000 and 15,000 students typically offer 55 majors. The preliminary report also said, “A statistical analysis of the data suggests that Miami should have a full-time undergraduate enrollment of at least 22,000” given the extent of its undergraduate programs. Miami’s greatest annual expense is personnel at nearly 42 percent of the budget, which makes reducing the number of major offerings a notable way to scale back costs, according to the report. The SPT co-chairs declined to comment further on their findings in the preliminary report. However, this process is not unilaterally the work of

wSee SPT, page 5

Feature photo headline 3/5 MICHAEL GRIGGS The Miami Student

Allison Berkey and Brooke Livingston embrace Julie Thompson in celebration after a win last season against Xavier.

SPORTS

Soccer team celebrates 15-0 victory By Alex Butler Senior Staff Writer

After being caged for the offseason following a 1-0 loss in last season’s Mid American Conference (MAC) Championship, the Miami University soccer team was ready to fly in the 2010 season opener. The Red and White hosted

Alabama A&M Aug. 21, and spread its wings on the soccer pitch for a 15-0 win over the bamboozled Bulldogs. The victory set a school record for goals in a game, besting an 8-0 victory in last season’s finale over Ball State University. “I’m not sure that that team was an accurate reflection of anything,” Head Coach Bobby Kramig said.

“While I’m very happy to have the win and happy that we got some goals and showed some offense, I really do not view that team as any indicator of how good we may or may not be.” One of Kramig’s players played good enough to take home some hardware, as junior midfielder

wSee SOCCER, page 5

SCOTT ALLISON The Miami Student

Miami seniors DJ Bruggemann, Melissa Leonard, Nikki Kozel, Grace Chensoff and Steven Baybutt blow bubbles Thursday evening at the OPD Pig Roast in Uptown Park.

CAMPUS

Research suggests MU administrative expenses too high

By Lee Jones Staff Writer

Inquiring minds want to know why tuition at top universities keeps increasing each year, and part of the answer is something called an “administrative bloat.” This occurs when more university funds

are allocated to administrative spending than educational spending. A study by the Goldwater Institute suggests that Miami University is among the many schools that have this problem. Researchers at the Goldwater Institute said per 100 students at American universities, the number of full time

THE

INSIDESCOOP

JUSTICE IS SERVED

Miami will soon offer a new social justice major.

CAMPUS, page 2

HELPING HAND

McCullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital recieves rave reviews.

COMMUNITY, page 4

GET THAT “A”

A new website that allows students to bet on their grades may soon hit Miami.

CAMPUS, page 3

LITE NOT SO BRITE

administrators rose 39 percent, while the number of educators rose only 18 percent from 1993 to 2007. According to a Goldman Institute index of spending increases at nearly every American university, Miami is not behind the times. During that same 14-year span, the amount spent on administration grew

Students were surprised to find lampless desks on campus this year.

CAMPUS, page 3

ASK YO MAMA

by nearly 50 percent, while the change in instruction staff cost per 100 students rose only 5.5 percent. James Brock, an economics professor at Miami, said the university needs to look closely at this issue.

wSee EXPENSES, page 5

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WWW.MIAMISTUDENT.NET COMMUNITY: FRIED CHICKEN

Mama Miami hasn’t been asked any questions in almost a year.

Brick Street debuts their new fried chicken concept this week. Find out what we thought of it.

KNOW YOUR STUFF

SPORTS: UNDER REVIEW

FEATURES, page 6

Miami lingo is an art to master, especially for all you first-years.

AMUSEMENT, page 8

Read Rob Johnson’s take on Lou Piniella retirement and Steven Baybutt’s analysis of the Big Ten.

SPORTS: SPIKE IT

Sat

86 q 59 p

Sun

91 q 63 p

Mon

90 q 62 p

The Miami volleyball team will debut at the Belmont Invitational this weekend.


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Campus

Friday

August 27, 2010

Editors Courtney Day Hope Holmberg Amanda Seitz campus@miamistudent.net

News MU offers social justice major BRIEFS By Hope Holmberg Campus Editor

fyi Discounted Dalai Lama tickets to go on sale Discounted tickets to see His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet will be available to students, faculty, staff and retirees of Miami University beginning Sept. 1. His Holiness The Dalai Lama will speak on the subject of “Ethics in a Modern World” at 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 21 in Millett Hall. 

 From 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 1 through 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 7, $5 tickets will be available at the Shriver Center box office. There is a limit of two tickets per person. After this limited-time offer, tickets will cost $25. Ticket sales open to the general public at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 8 as availability allows. General admission tickets are $25 with no ticket limit for individuals. Tickets can be purchased online at www.tickets.muohio.edu or at the Shriver Center box office. Ticket inventory may be limited.

Alumni give to Education, Arts & Science schools Faye Anderson Smith has pledged a $1 million bequest to Miami University. Smith has given the gift in support of Miami’s School of Education, Health and Society (EHS). She graduated from Miami with a bachelor’s degree in Business Education in 1959. Smith’s bequest will be used to provide a scholarship endowment for students in the EHS. The scholarships will benefit students who demonstrate need. A separate bequest of $100,000 was given to the College of Arts and Science (CAS) from Mary Donofrio-Davis, a 1966 graduate of Miami. During her time here, Donofrio-Davis majored in Spanish. Donofrio-Davis currently resides in Falmouth, Maine. The dean of the CAS will be able to decide where Donofrio-Davis’ gift is most needed at the school.

A new social justice major will soon be an option for Miami University students. Whether they are undecided or motivated to double major, all Miami students are encouraged to explore the new major. After several years of discussion about the creation of a social justice major at Miami, the proposed major is now in its final stages of approval. This semester, two social justice classes are available for students to take, and both classes are full. “There was interest before, and the minute we started offering the classes, they were filled immediately,” said Jean Lynch, chair of the department of sociology and gerontology. The proposed new major entails 40 hours

and students can choose to pursue either the social justice and equalities track or the crime, law and social justice track. “The courses are really exciting,” Lynch said. In the course bulletin the major is described as, “a sociologically-based foundation of knowledge and skills to examine the essential connections between

wSee JUSTICE, page 3

Letter to students introduces academic policies By Hope Holmberg Campus Editor

Some notable alterations regarding the consequenses of Miami University student misconduct were mentioned in a welcome letter sent to the student body by Susan Mosley-Howard, associate vie president and dean of students, Aug. 22. In the letter, Mosley-Howard expressed her excitement for the 2010-2011 school year and discussed the university’s emergency text message initiative, the integrity policy, P-2-P: illegal file sharing and copyrighted material and health safety. The letter said the university considers violations of both the in-class dishonesty policy and the out-of-class dishonesty policy when making decisions about stu-

dent conduct matters, a change not new to the 2010-2011 school year. “The policy was changed actually in 2009 and it now brings a students’ decisions and conduct holistically into the picture when we are considering disciplinerelated issues,” Mosley-Howard said via e-mail. According to Mosley-Howard, the decision regarding student conduct was prompted by Miami’s involvement in the Association for Colleges and Universities project on personal and social responsibility. A four-year study on Miami’s student integrity and dishonesty also led to the change. Mosley-Howard said the violations that would be included in this policy outside the classroom would be “dishonesty” in the student code. This includes offenses like possessing a fake ID and

misrepresentation. A description of what violations this would include can be found in section 2.1.B (102) of the Student Code of Conduct. The letter also talks about illegal distribution of copyrighted material, such as unauthorized P-2-P file sharing. For most students, this likely refers to illegal downloading and sharing of music and movies. According to the letter, “Illegal distribution of copyrighted material is a Code One violation under the university’s Code of Student Conduct and may result in University disciplinary action.” The legal implications, however, go far beyond the university level. “P-2-P is tied to a federal law and Higher Education Reauthorization Act,” Mosley-Howard said. Mike Brooks, a special agent for the Cincinnati Federal Bureau of Investigation reiterated the

seriousness of such offenses. “Music and movies are copyrighted, so therefore transferring them without the permission of the manufacturer is a violation of federal law,” Brooks said. According to Brooks, even if the person is sharing the media but not making any money, it is still a violation of federal law. “If they’re (students) doing something that’s free on the Internet and they’re transferring things like movies and music, they’re in all likelihood violating federal law because its being done in violation of federal copyright laws,” Brooks said. Brooks said the biggest concern is probably the music or film industry taking action against them. “The civil penalty for violation of copy laws are very substantial,” he said.

‘Summer days driftin’ away’

events Dance theatre auditions open to all students Interested Miami students are welcome to try out for Dance Theatre, Miami University’s dance company. Both male and female students are welcome to come perform. Dance Theatre performs a wide variety of dance forms and presents a major concert each semester. The auditions will commence with an open technique session at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 30. Auditions will take place in the Dance Studio in 115 Phillips Hall at both 4:15 p.m. and 6:15 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 31. An audition sign-up sheet is posted outside the dance studio.

SCOTT ALLISON The Miami Student

Senior Sarah Brewer takes time between classes to read Thursday afternoon under the Upham Arch.

Miami scores high marks in national magazine rankings By Taylor Dolven Senior Staff Writer

Miami University has brought home two more “A” grades this fall. Parade Magazine and Washington Monthly have both ranked Miami at the top of their college lists. These rankings are different from those handed out by U.S. News and World Report, as Parade and Washington Monthly have provided a different approach to analyzing universities. According to Parade, Miami is one of the top 25 large public universities in the country. In this new study, Parade interviewed guidance counselors from 43 high schools across the country. Guidance counselors were asked to compile a list of the best but often overlooked universities. “They asked which schools produce

successes for students but aren’t always at urging her to apply. After evaluating her opthe top,” said Claire Wagner, director of uni- tions, she felt Miami was the best choice beversity communications cause of the atmosphere. at Miami. “I love the people here,” Ivy League schools Scott said. “I love the “They asked which genuine, welcoming feellike Yale and Princeton schools produce are usually among the ing. That was a big thing successes for students for me.” top rated universities according to U.S. News and Miami also made but aren’t always at World Report. the top of another list the top.” Instead of looking at based upon student things like alumni donabody composition. CLAIRE WAGNER tions and university reWashington Monthly COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR sources, Parade analyzed ranked Miami 12th in the the opinions of these nation in its annual report. counselors to generate The criteria: recruiting and a counter to the standard ranking system, graduating low-income students. Wagner said. Washington Monthly started its colMiami first-year Kelly Scott heard about lege guide to provide a different kind of the school through her high school guidance ranking system. According to the study, counselors. They showed her pictures of its first ranking was published in 2005 as fall leaves and red brick backgrounds while an attempt to uproot the traditional way of

ranking universities. “Instead of asking what a college could do for you, we asked ‘What are colleges doing for the country?’” the study said. Universities were graded in the areas of research, service and social mobility. The study revealed 11 percent of Miami students received federal financial aid in the form of Pell grants, which contributes to their ability to recruit and graduate low-income students. Brent Shock, Miami director of financial aid, said the high number of Pell grant recipients is related to the economic downturn. Shock said this ranking is a very good thing for Miami, as it will enable students from varying backgrounds to achieve a Miami degree. “It represents a level of socioeconomic diversity,” Shock said. “That’s important.” Miami was also recognized as a “Best College Buy” by Forbes Magazine.


Campus

THE MIAMI STUDENT

FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2010 ♦ 3

Website allows students across the country to bet on grades By Gabi Madden For The Miami Student

Remember being a kid when your parents would give you few dollars for getting that “A” in your elementary math class? The cash incentive probably gave you more drive to achieve that “A.” What if life were still like that in college? What if someone was willing to pay you to do well in school? Well, according to 23-year-old cofounder of Ultrinsic Jeremy Gelbart, students can be paid for college academic achievements. Gelbart, along with the help of 27-year-old Stephen Wolf, came up with a website that could give college students the incentive to do well. According to Gelbart, it all started when he and Wolf were hanging out on a Sunday afternoon. Gelbart said he really didn’t feel like studying, so Wolf gave him a bit of incentive to do so. “He said, ‘if you get an “A,” I will give you $100, but if you don’t get an “A,” you have to give me $20,’” Gelbart said. According to Gelbart, he then went home to study and ended up getting an “A” on the exam as well

Students who stumble across Ultrinsic.com can find a monetary incentive to succeed in their classes as an extra $100 in his wallet. Gelbart said this made the two of them decide they needed to do this for other college students, and with that, Ultrinsic was born.

“A student comes to the website and they create an account, Gelbart said. “They put their GPA in as well as their current schedule. Then, they can put in various types

of incentives.” According to Gelbart, a student then puts down money that they can get a certain grade in a class and the incentive or website also puts

money down on the student getting that grade. “The system rewards students when they improve their grade,” Gelbart said. According to Gelbart, Ultrinsic is now supported by 36 different schools across the nation, including four Ivy League universities. “We’re not in Miami (University) yet, but it’s definitely a school on the radar,” Gelbart said. Junior Sarah Toney said she thinks Ultrinsic is a great idea. “I think it motivates you to do better,” Toney said. “If I had money on it, I’d want to (do) well!” This website has caused some controversy, Gelbart said, because people think it’s gambling. Gelbart doesn’t feel the arguments are valid. “Gambling is based on chance,” Gelbart said. “In order to win this game you have to study. Grades are not based on chance. They’re based on how well you do in your class.” Junior Josh Sneed said he thinks Ultrinsic is gambling. “But not all gambling is bad,” Sneed said. “The only bad part is you could lose money. But you know the risks when you go into it. If you lose money . . . well maybe you should have worked harder.”

Residence halls remove desk lamps

Blowin’ it up

By Hope Holmberg Campus Editor

SAMANTHA LUDINGTON The Miami Student

Ben Weaver performs at band practice with the Miami University Band on Thursday afternoon.

JUSTICE

continued from page 2 social values, structured inequalities and social change.” C. Lee Harrington, professor of sociology, was a major force behind the effort to establish the new major. Harrington said the creation of the social justice major is something that Miami has talked about for years. “We are excited that this might bring students to the university,” Harrington said. Harrington hopes the new major will draw in both first-year students and undecided students. “I actually think if a student had

taken a number of these classes already, they could add it as a double major,” Lynch said. Lynch said students have always asked why Miami does not have a social justice major. “It is a very interdisciplinary major,” Lynch said. Harrington said at universities around the United States the social justice major is placed within a wide range of departments from economics to English. However, at Miami, the best fit for the major is in the sociology and gerontology department. “We created this using a lot of the classes we already had on the books,” Lynch said. Social justice related classes exist all over campus, she said.

Harrington said students who choose to pursue the social justice major will have the opportunity to look at the ideals and realities of justice. “There’s a lot of reflection and action and critical thinking in these courses — a lot of connection to the external world,” Lynch said. Although the social justice major will be a part of the sociology department, Harrington said it is unique in itself. “(The major) provides a brand new core rooted in social justice studies rather than sociology,” Lynch said. Lynch said the major will prepare students for the changing world. “It will teach students to think critically, write policy and solve problems,” Lynch said.

Desk lamps were added to the list of items first-year students needed to provide for themselves this year after all of the desk lamps were removed from residence halls over the summer. According to Larry Fink, assistant vice president of Housing and Auxiliaries, each year more and more students requested for their desk lamps to be reTell us your thoughts. moved because they preferred to provide their own. Fink said the lamps were old and repair parts were unavailable. Comment on this story at “(The lamps) were www.miamistudent.net. big, they were old, parts were obsolete,” Fink said. The florescent lamps were installed in the lamps several years ago as part of our sustainability initiates, Fink said. However, when the bulbs were installed the lamps were outdated. The lack of desk lamps on campus had repercussions in other parts of Oxford. “We ran out of them (desk lamps),” said Debbie, a customer service manager at Wal-Mart in Oxford. Debbie said although they had to be stocked with lamps from another store, they ran out. However, she said more lamps will arrive by the end of the week. Senior Stephen Jackson said he used the lamp in his residence hall all of the time. “It was very personal and I felt like I had more privacy and wouldn’t wake up my roommate,” he said. Sophomore Brian Rice still lives in a residence hall and agrees that the lamps previously included in the rooms were useful. Rice said his lamp from Wal-Mart is not as bright as the lamp Miami provided for him last year and that he was able to study while his roommate was sleeping. “My roommate last year went to bed really early, so I always used my lamp to do homework,” Rice said. Sophomore James Cox also found his lamp useful. “I used it all the time,” Cox said. Junior Stephanie Grode, however, said she often used the main light in her room when she lived in a residence hall. “I did not use my lamp in my room,” she said.

‘Can we fix it?’

SCOTT ALLISON The Miami Student

Construction workers help remodel Laws Hall Thursday afternoon.


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Community

Friday

August 27, 2010

Editors Stephen Bell Kelsey Bishop community@miamistudent.net

Parking ticket pay term extends By Leslie Scott Staff Writer

Oxford City Council recently decided to extend the time in which parking tickets can be paid before fines are increased. In the past, traffic violators were given 48 hours to pay their fines, after which the fines would be increased. “Now that the ordinance has been passed unanimously by the council, people have seven days to pay off their tickets,” Oxford Mayor Richard Keebler said. “It seems like the reasonable thing to do. Before it was hard for students to go home and mail back their fee within 48 hours.” Although Keebler has not

experienced too many problems with needed to be addressed in terms of parking. parking personally, “It is good that they he disagreed with “Now that the extended the time to uptown business pay off the ticket owners feeding ordinance has been because it not only meters through- passed unaimously gives people more out the day instead by the Council, of leaving parkflexibility, but it ofpeople have seven fers a longer chance ing spaces open to customers. to contest a ticket if days to pay off “I am always needed,” Thieman their tickets.” said. “Forty-eight able to find a spot hours did not seem within a few blocks RICHARD KEEBLER long enough.” of my destination,” MAYOR OF OXFORD H o w e v e r, Keebler said. “Mermerchants are chants should also not the only ones who pose park down streets a little further away from uptown so customers a problem when it comes to parking uptown. have full access.” Students living in the apartments Miami University junior Nicole directly uptown are also known Thieman agreed that something

for monopolizing limited parking spaces, a problem Keebler suggested be solved with university parking lots. “Again, those parking spaces should be for customers,” Keebler said. “The school offers other car storage options to students.” Junior Jessie Rains agreed that while parking is tight, it is difficult to come up with a solution because of Oxford’s small size. Keebler said parking will likely remain problematic. “I think the new changes in terms of parking are very reasonable,” Keebler said. “However, it is just a fact of life. People are going to have to accept that parking will always be an issue here.”

Ohio recognizes McCullough-Hyde for low injury rate By Bethany Bruner

Miami University junior Jeffrey Kleykamp said while winning the award is a Employees at McCulloughgood thing for the hospiHyde Memorial Hospital tal, the statistics could (MHMH) have stayed be misleading. safe this year, and “It doesn’t really the state of Ohio make sense if they knows it. say the hospital Recently, the is safe for emOhio Hospital ployees only,” Safety Camhe said. “It paign, in has to be conjuncsafe for tion with both the pathe Occupatients and the tional Safety and employees.” Health AdminisCluster said tration, recognized the last 18 months MHMH as the small have brought employer in the state changes that have with the lowest on the job helped prevent injuinjury rate. ries to both employees Barb Cluster, risk manager and patients. The hosfor MHMH, said every employpital recently invested in er in the state is measured and needleless injectors that allow compared based upon information nurses and other hospital emreceived from the Bureau of Worker’s ployees to use needles without Compensation. The hospital was comthem being exposed. This techSCOTT ALLISON The Miami Student pared with other employers in the state nology helps to prevent puncture The Ohio Safety Campaign and the Occupational Safety and wounds and potential disease from that had approximately 400 employees. Health Administration ranks McCullough-Hyde Memorial The hospital ranked first in the state for contaminated needles. Hospital first for lowest on the job injury for employees in 2009. 2009. Cluster said this high ranking is the Another change is the safefirst time in recent memory that MHMH has ty training provided by departbeen recognized. only injuries that count for the rankings are ment directors and management at “For several years before I got here, we injuries resulting in lost time from work. the hospital. This training is designed had an increasing number of injuries,” According to Cluster, most health- to help prevent employee injuries, Cluster said. care employee injuries do not result in Cluster said. She credited the processes that the hospital time off work. First-year Charlie Joanna Wagers said has in place to examine safety procedures for Many healthcare injuries are simple, Cluster winning the award shows the hospital the short turn around. said, like being poked by a needle, but there are cares about more than the patients. “It’s a really good thing,” she said. “We’re always working on things,” procedures in place for when a more serious “It shows they care and they’re doing she said. “If someone falls on a wet injury occurs. floor, we have to find out why there “All employees who are hurt have to go their jobs.” While she appreciates the recognition, was no sign or why there was a leak to the emergency room immediately and and fix it.” be evaluated by a physician,” Cluster said. Cluster hopes next year will bring even Part of the reasoning for the comparatively “By using active process improvement and greater improvement. “We’re hopeful to see even better numlow injury rate at the hospital may be be- managing injuries immediately, we get bers for 2010,” she said. cause of how the comparison was done. The people back to work and prevent injuries.” Senior Staff Writer

Campaign craze

City Council votes to replace sidewalks, gutters on Main Street By Lauren Karch For The Miami Student

SAMANTHA LUDINGTON The Miami Student

Ohio Governor Ted Strickland speaks Wednesday at a re-election campaign fundraiser held at the home of Glenn and Judy Rymer in Oxford.

The mind of Oxford City Council is in the gutter. The council voted Aug. 4 to replace sidewalks, curbs and gutters on Main Street. Mike Dreisbach, city service director, said the construction will not stop traffic and will be completed within the month of September. Parking on Main Street may be affected during the replacement. “Contracts were just signed and returned,” Dreisbach said. “They should be starting in the next week or two and they’ll be done in the next month.” The project, estimated to cost $59,134 and approved not to exceed $65,047, has been given to Innovative Concrete and Utility Construction Inc. The contractor offered the lowest bid for the project and held favorable references from surrounding cities, according to a report by Oxford’s Service and Engineering Department.

Dreisbach said this is money spent out of necessity due to damage and defects found in the current sidewalks and gutters. One of several gutter replacements to be made this year, the Main Street project is especially urgent due to a larger project to take place in 2011. The gutter replacement will cut drainage issues during and after road resurfacing. “The sidewalks, curbs and gutters were in poor condition, and we’re doing this in advance of resurfacing next year,” Dreisbach said. According to Dreisbach, Main Street will be resurfaced in May 2011. Funding for that project will come jointly from the city and the Ohio Department of Transportation. Senior Angela Winterbotham said she would be pleased to see new sidewalks on Main Street. “It’s about time,” she said. “The sidewalks uptown are in pretty rough shape. New ones would look better and be less of a tripping hazard.”


THE MIAMI STUDENT

FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2010 ♌ 5

EXPENSES continued from page 1

“We need to ask ourselves what is driving the cost higher and higher,� Brock said. “Maybe there’s too much administration.� Brock said this trend “can’t continue forever� without doing significant damage to the quality of education at American universities. Interim Provost John Skillings said there are no administrative bloat problems at Miami. “Over the last few years we’ve had

SOCCER

continued from page 1 Sarah Dessfelt was named CoMAC Offensive Player of the Week for an effort including a trio of scores and one helper. “I am really, really honored,� Dessfelt said. “To be honest, I don’t think it’s going to happen again, but I hope so. It was my first time scoring ever, so I’m really excited.� The excitement also came from newly nested RedHawks. Freshmen Morgan Stallard and Sam Whitmore also netted hat tricks, while Kayla Zakrzewski

substantial reductions in budgets, but a considerable amount of blame on governhigher cuts were in administrative costs ment subsidies of education, saying that this than educational costs,� money goes into adminhe said. istration unchecked. Skillings declined to According to the reTell us your thoughts. comment on the Goldport, “The large and inwater numbers because creasing rate of governhe was not familiar ment subsidy for higher with them. education facilitates “(The Goldwater administrative bloat by numbers) can be the insulating students from Comment on this story at basis for answering the costs. Reducing govwww.miamistudent.net. whether there is adminernment subsidies would istrative bloat at Miami,� do much to make univerBrock sad. “I think they sities more efficient.� merit attention.� Skillings sees government subsidies for The Goldwater Institute research places universities as a crucial tool for making

had a goal and four assists. “It was very fun,� Dessfelt said. “Most of the freshmen got to play and they all did really well. We worked really well as a team and everyone worked for each other. We are looking very good this year and I hope we get a MAC championship.� Dessfelt and her teammates played to a 1-1 draw in an exhibition match against the New London Galaxy Soccer Club Aug. 22 and will resume regular season play against the University of Tennessee Chattanooga Friday, Aug. 27. “In my mind we took more away from the 1-1 draw than the 15-0,� Kramig said. “The only way to learn more about your

team is when they are being tested and challenged. They came right at us and we are a considerably better team than Saturday. It gave us a more critical look at our own group.� Kramig corralled his girls after the game to remind them about the thread they bear. “Like I told the kids, when you put that jersey on that says Miami on the front of it, it means something,� Kramig said. “You better be ready to go to work when you put that shirt on. I didn’t think we really were.� The RedHawks will stash the home whites and meet the Mocs at 9 p.m. as part of the Lady Govs Invitational in Clarksville, Tenn.

ends meet. “Substantial funds are directly to pay for teaching students,� he said. He believes that a university’s budget should reflect its priorities, and its highest priority should be students and their education. Student Body President Heath Ingram said he sees this as a growing problem that will plague universities if left unresolved. “I think going forward as the university evaluates its fiscal priorities Miami will have to address administrative spending,� he said. Ingram said this will ensure that Miami will continue to provide excellent education and opportunities to its students.

SPT

continued from page 1 the administration, according to both Student Body President Heath Ingram and Makaroff. The SPT has made its data and propositions available to the Miami community via its website. Following its release, forums will be held throughout September in order to receive further student input on the SPT’s report. “The forums are an opportunity to explain what the committee has done and to educate the university community about the serious challenges which the institution faces in the upcoming years,� Ingram said. Ingram believes as the economic and social climate of Miami’s operation transforms, the student voice will be crucial in preserving the Miami experience.

Makaroff said he hopes the forums will spark discussion and ideas for the future of the university. “Most importantly, these forums are intended to generate constructive dialogue about what needs to happen and what Miami should look like.� Makaroff said. “This is peoples’ chance to express their comments and concerns, to ask the committee questions and provide input.� The SPT webpage will host a community blog for commentary as well, according to the recent letter. If students and faculty have ideas for additional ways to cut costs or wish to offer other opinions on the SPT’s draft, they are encouraged to post feedback. The blog will be released with the draft report. After a review of this input, the SPT will present its findings to Hodge Oct. 15. The board of trustees will ultimately decide the extent of the reform in Miami’s future.

2010-2011 Miami Mock Trial The 3rd Ranked Program in the Country Newcomers Informational Session: 8PM 1035 School of Business Bldg. Tuesday September 7th For more info, contact Prof. Herron herrondj@muohio.edu

SUDOKU, page 12.

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6

Friday

August 27, 2010

Features

By Amelia Carpenter and Sylvie Turner For The Miami Student

So, who is she? Mama Miami is a good friend of Miami University according to Carole Johnson, assistant director of communications in the Department of News and Information. The Mama Miami website was created by the Department of News and Information in January 2003 to act as a resource for students, parents, alumni and faculty who had random or offbeat questions, according to the former director of the Department of News and Information Holly Wissing. “Mama Miami started to provide accurate information, to dispel rumors and to have a little fun,” Wissing said. Mama prefers to stay anonymous; she’s just a sassy mother with lots of connections, according to Johnson. “Mama Miami is very humble,” Johnson said. “She just likes to answer questions. Mama Miami can be accessed through Blackboard Quick Links. Users are able to search for previously answered questions and ask Mama new questions. Johnson said Mama doesn’t come up with her own information, but waits for curiosity. “Pretty much Mama waits to see for questions to come in,” Johnson said. With connections to university communications and Miami history, Mama is able to find the answers. “Mama knew a lot of people and it was easy to connect with the right people,” Wissing said. “Staff and faculty were always willing to help Mama. Wissing said back when Mama Miami first started, it was a novelty. “Some of the questions are a lot of fun,” Wissing said. “There was a group of students who enjoyed reading it.” Mama’s fingers could barely keep up from 2004 to 2006, answering many questions and even multiple questions in a day. Wissing’s personal favorite was:

Editor Amelia Carpenter features@miamistudent.net

Since the influx from 2004 to 2006, questions have been less common. The last question answered was in October 2009. But Mama doesn’t answer just any question. “She’s kind of particular with the questions she decides to answer if she has answered them several times before,” Johnson said. “(Mama) really wants students to learn how to research — learn how to find out the questions by themselves. That might be why she hasn’t answered questions in a while.” In a recent poll conducted by The Miami Student, 41 percent of those surveyed said they had never heard of Mama Miami. But one firstyear was intrigued. First-year Lindsay Moss said she would use the cyber resource. “If I had a question, I’d ask Mama,” Moss said. Senior Evan Allen thought Mama Miami sounded like a good idea although he hadn’t heard of it before. “If I really need to know something (I might use it), but I feel like I know everything ­­— it’s my fifth year,” Allen said. Senior Hauna Biox agreed. “It would definitely find out random answers for things that you can’t find out easily,” Biox said. Because Mama has had a break from questions, she now has a search bar that will halt duplicate question-askers in their tracks, according to Johnson. The site is organized by categories: academics, actual rumors, athletics, best of Mama, buildings, construction, grounds, employees, frequently asked questions, housing and dining, history, parking and metro, technology and a tab for everything. Although a variety of topics have been covered, there are always new ones waiting to be discovered, perhaps by a curious first-year or a senior yearning for answers before graduation. Mama’s only stipulation? Don’t ask the obvious.

Q: How much would my friend be charged if he took his desk and chair home with him from his dorm room? He really likes them. A: Your friend would be charged with theft. Mama recommends he not walk off with university property. The plethora of questions coming in was becoming overwhelming during Mama’s prime, but many were things that people could research on their own and find the answer. Mama came back with a note on her homepage: “Let’s face it, some of you got used to asking Mama things you could easily find on your own. No more.” A Facebook group called “Friends of Mama Miami” was created and has 17 members, all of whom are in the Miami University network and most are alumni. Wissing noticed Mama has slowed down, but thinks Mama’s hiatus may be for the best.

Visit Mama Miami http://netapps.muohio.edu/php apps/townsquare/mamamiami or join the Friends of Mama Miami group on Facebook!

HANNAH MILLER The Miami Student


THE MIAMI STUDENT

FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2010 ♦ 7

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8

Amusement

Friday, August 27, 2010

Editor Anna Turner amusement@miamistudent.net

feature

The first-years’ guide to Miami lingo

Anna Turner

Amusement Editor

Alright, first - years. I realize you’re pretty confused with all this new, hip Miami lingo you’re hearing all the time, so I’ve made an easy to use Miami Lingo Dictionary to make your life easier. 1809 - the amount of dollars you’ll spend on contraceptives this semester. Armstrong Student Center - this building will never exist. “Armstrong Student Center” is code for President Hodge’s retirement fund. Broomball - this sport requires neither brooms nor balls, as any pansy can partake. If you don’t mind sharing molding penny jerseys, head lice-ridden helmets or crusty moon shoes that would be rejected by the least respectable Goodwill store, you’ll love broomball. Greek Week - an awkward display of the Greek community in which Greek students are forced to be proud of their Greek involvement. Dreaded by all Greeks on campus, Greek Week is one of the most humiliating periods of a Greek student’s life, and they spend the rest of the year trying to live down this horrible week in which they have to let everyone know their true Greek identity. Helpful academic adviser - this mythical creature does not actually exist. There are advisers, but helpful advisers are figments of your imagination. Figure out your schedule yourself — it will save you so much time and misery. Miami merger - a destined-to-fail marriage that unites two Miami graduates, both too stupid to realize that there are

ANNA TURNER The Miami Student

quite literally millions of other people in the world better suited for them, but since those millions of people won’t kiss under the Upham arch, they, of course, are not marriage material … But whatever. Miami Plan - a collection of classes

students are forced to take in an attempt to bring down their GPA, self-esteem and overall feeling of well-being. Miami Plan is also the leading reason for emotional breakdowns during finals week. Parents Weekend - these two days are reserved for parents to come and tell you

everything you’ve done wrong since they left you on move-in day. Miami provides a plethora of Parents Weekend events, each one more stupid than the last. For instance, an equestrian demo or the farmer’s market are on the schedule. Phi Delt Gates - where people take advantage of your drunken state and make you will spend more money than you ever thought possible on hot chocolate, puppy chow and cupcakes. Poster Sale - an opportunity to buy oversized pictures representing pop culture that will make your roommate think you’re well versed in music, art, cinema and alcohol even though you are not. R.A. - stands for buzz kill. This person will watch you like a hawk, make you participate in pointless get-to-know-you activities and ensure that there is zero fun to be had in residence halls. The seal - according to Miami legend, stepping on the seal will cause you to fail your next exam. This is false. Really it’s just a way for bedwetters to pretend they’re badasses because they can fearlessly step on a metal circle. Wow. I’m really impressed. Slant walk - the diagonal stretch of concrete that serves as a vomit receptacle for lightweight underclassmen straggling home from an eventful night uptown. Likewise, slant walk is home to one of Miami’s less popular sports, vomit puddle dodging. Swoop - Miami’s apology for decades of having a derogatory mascot. Upham Arch - Miami’s favorite place to get sexually transmitted diseases.

wSee LINGO, page 9

music

film

My complicated relationship with film Can’t-miss and By Curtis Waugh Senior Staff Writer

There comes a time in many a young viewer’s life when an important decision must be made. You’re standing at a crossroads: you have been seeing someone with moderate exclusivity and you have had a hell of a time together so far. He or she has put you through the emotional wringer and you have eaten up all of the excitement that comes with the relationship, but it’s not enough anymore. You want something new. Her jokes are stale, you no longer have nightmares about her and you can predict her every move. That’s right, it’s time to find a new movie franchise you can hook up with. This summer has been laborious, filled with disappointment and only fleeting magnificence. As we reach the end of it, the full picture comes into focus and we can finally put to rest some of our old loves and try to rekindle, or sustain, some new ones. First, I would like to announce a couple of anniversaries. This is my 15th year in a steady and loving relationship with Pixar. We got hitched way back in 1995 when I first saw “Toy Story.” The relationship has come full circle with “Toy Story 3,” an unbelievable and heart-wrenching little number. Pixar has never once lied, cheated or beat me silly with a rolling pin, and I look forward to the years to come. Another smaller anniversary comes with director Christopher Nolan. His “Inception” this summer proved that audiences can handle a cerebral and still exhilarating trip to the movie theater. Regardless of what you think of the film, it is an artistic crescendo for a director that has been entertaining us for years with films like “The Dark Knight,” “The Prestige” and “Memento.”

7 the

I N FA M O U S

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Next, I would like to announce my engagement to Edgar Wright. Judging from the box office numbers, you may not know who he is, but his film, “Scott Pilgrim vs. the World,” represents everything that filmmakers should aspire to. Wright takes difficult material and turns it into a whirlwind of nostalgia and excitement without ever losing sight of its characters. Edgar is the girl that you meet at a small concert, get her all hopped up on local music, realize that she likes everything you do and take her home to do with her what you will. This is a relationship that lasts and others should give him a chance as well. I think this next franchise and I should start seeing other people. In fact, I have written him a letter in order to break it off smoothly: Dear Mr. Predator, Your long dreadlocks, pointy mandibles and penchant for ripping out spines have kept us together through some difficult times. Upon first meeting, I believed you and I were meant to be together. I could have watched you skin mercenaries to the bone and bleed them out all night. Lately, I haven’t been feeling that spark. I think we got together after that first meeting with Arnold and just thought something was there that never was. Your last outing in “Predators” was merely okay, when it should have brought you back into my life with a boom and a spray of blood. You’re a great concept, and you definitely have potential in the future, it’s just right now I think I would like to see a few other monsters. P.S. If I EVER catch you messing around with those aliens again, consider us done. Now I need to touch on a recent, dirty, sweaty and downright bloody one night stand.

I don’t care what they say about Mr. Stallone, “The Expendables” was an amazing, bone-crunching good time that I haven’t experienced in the theater in a long time. Stallone showed me moves that I never thought would be possible, and it shook me all night long. While we’re on the subject, Terry Crews should carry that enormous gun around with him everywhere. But “The Expendables” was deeply flawed, with plot points left open and emotional themes left untouched. Luckily there were great performances out of Mickey Rourke and Dolph Lundgren (for maybe the second time ever) that helped relish some of the overwrought dialogue of the film. And now, for those you dropped before they could even utter a noise. These films deserve no mention other than you should not go see them under any circumstance. They will infiltrate your soul and show you the blackest and deepest of dark abysses in the universe. This is no hyperbole. “Vampires Suck,” “Cats and Dogs,” “The Last Airbender” (M. Night is on a tight noose right now) and any other movie featuring talking animals in a live-action movie are the worst possible film relationship partners one can have. Seriously. Anyway, I have come out of the summer and into what will become fall with at least a knowing idea of how my film relationships will work in the next few years. Most of them have been burned from my memory and some may just get another shot. Bridges need to be burned every now and then to make room for more original and fun relationships. I’m happy with those to which I have now attached myself and look forward to a long and fertile film future. I hope you all can say the same.

must-miss music

By Chris DeNicola Senior Staff Writer

Music can be a hit or miss kind of thing. Some bands are good and just get better, while some bands are good and get worse. You also have the overrated and underrated and unheard of bands. Here’s my list of what to look forward to, what to cover your ears for and what to listen for just a bit harder.

The Good

The Kings of Leon. These guys are three brothers and a cousin who started a kick-you-in-the-mouth kind of Southern rock around 2003. Coming to Riverbend Music Center in Cincinnati Sept. 4, the Kings have taken the world by storm with their last album, “Only By the Night.” The thing is, I don’t think this was their best album. It was a damn good one, but go back to early albums, especially “Aha Shake Heartbreak,” to get a feel for the whole band. With a new album coming out Oct. 19 titled “Come Around Sundown,” the Kings are a great band to listen to because they rock hard but always give their fans what they want. They’ve also been playing some of their new music on tour. Labor Day weekend is a perfect chance to go down to get a preview of their new album. Mike Posner. Some call him hip-hop, others might just say he’s pop, but after coming to Oxford this past year, Posner shot up the music charts with his song “Cooler Than Me,” which could be used as a theme song for some girls at this university. He would be a great person to see live. Lucky for you fans, he’s coming to Bogart’s in downtown Cincinnati Sept. 29. KT Tunstall. This talented Scottish musician might not be coming to Cincinnati this year, but she will be releasing a new album Oct. 5 titled “Tiger Suit.” You might remember her from the songs, “Black Horse and a Cherry Tree” or “Suddenly I See,” which were part of her 2004 debut album

Myths first-years believe ... 7. Going to office hours makes a difference 6. You’ll meet your true love at college 5. Your roommate will become your best friend 4. Upperclassmen are there to help 3. Miami Plan classes enhance your college experience 2. You’re in the right major 1. College guys like you for who you are

wSee MUSIC, page 9


THE MIAMI STUDENT

FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2010 ♦ 9

Amusement

scene

Who’s Johnny? A look at Johnny’s Campus Deli By Julie Roche Senior Staff Writer

With this new school year comes everything I know you look forward to in college: new syllabi, professors, textbooks, parking tickets and, did I me tion, alcohol? Lots and lots of it. Last week alone saw the sale of nearly 500 Natural Light cases and 700 cans of the recently popular caffeinated alcohol drink Four Loko, and that’s just what Johnny’s Campus Deli sold to the Miami University student population. For the unfortunately unaware and inexperienced, Johnny’s is the place where an average college kid’s dreams can come true, a must-go place where you can find the most necessary college survival merchandise: food, beer, wine, chips, cigarettes and … Hustler magazines? And they’ll even deliver it all right to your front door. Built in the 1940’s by a gentleman by the name of Peter Knox, Johnny’s was once known as Knox Deli. The sandwich joint went through some name transitions, none of which stuck (Mike’s, P.A. Hoagies and others), until finally the building was leased to a very vague figure by the name of Johnny Brown. Sitting on the corner of Sycamore and North Campus Avenue, the little deli was finally dubbed Johnny’s. If you’ve ever wondered who the cartoony dude carrying the six-pack and sub on the sign is, well, it’s a cartoon version of Johnny Brown’s son, of course. Johnny’s general manager and Miami Uni-

versity graduate Tim Nichols said although Johnny’s was originally more known for being a deli, it’s now more recognized for its very broad range of alcohol stock. Though they can’t sell full-proof liquors due to Ohio’s state liquor laws, Johnny’s holds over 160 different types of beers ranging from your average Bud Light to your more obscure Hoegaarden along with a variety of awardwinning wines like Barefoot and Yellow Tail and campus favorite liquors like Parrot Bay and Malibu Rum. Then, with the different seasons come your typical seasonal beers, like Oktoberfest. Another trend that you’ll unfortunately see is the rising price of Miami’s most beloved beer, Natural Light. “When I was in college, cases of Natty were $8.99,” Nichols said. “Now they’re at $13.99, but in the next month that price is going to go up another dollar.” When alcohol trends like Natty prices change, Johnny’s tries to keep up with them. “Every year, there’s something new,” Nichols said. “We have to keep up with what people ask for.” For Nichols, keeping up with what people want and getting to know them is one of the best parts of the job. “The long hours are bad, but the best part is the friendly people,” Nichols said. “There are lots of regulars, like the same people who come in and buy the same box of cigarettes every day.” And finally, a little-known fact about Johnny’s … “We’re on Facebook,” laughs Nichols. “Come see us.”

SAMANTHA LUDINGTON The Miami Student

Justin Perkins unloads cases of beer into a freezer Thursday afternoon at Johnny’s.

Punchline’s album provides pleasant surprise By Catherine Couretas Editor in Chief

I’m not going to lie, I hadn’t heard much of Punchline before. It’s convenient that their latest album is titled “Delightfully Pleased” because I was ... for the most part. I didn’t know what to expect. With my favorite bands ranging from Saosin to Something Corporate, The Starting Line to Breathe Electric, XO to Lights, I figured they’d be along

MUSIC

continued from page 8 “Eye to the Telescope.” A bit acoustic/folk, kind of rock and absolutely confident in what she’s singing, Tunstall isn’t afraid to use strange lyrics as a way to pull in the listener. Give her a shot. It’s easy to get overshadowed by artists like Lady Gaga, Katy Perry (new album “Teenage Dream” released Aug. 24) and Taylor Swift (“Speak Now” out Oct. 26), but talentwise Tunstall’s right up there with them.

The Bad

Christina Aguilera. Honestly, I can’t think of anything to complain about from this year aside from Aguilera’s new album. Wait, what? She released an

the same lines or close by. Punchline has a totally different sound than I expected, and that’s not to say I had any idea. At first, I thought they sounded a bit more ska than punk rock and I didn’t know if I was a huge fan, but after a listen through the album, they grew on me. I’d say the best comparisons are Over It, Midtown and The Years Gone By. They’re off the beaten path, but worth that little venutre. The first word that comes to mind

when it comes to Punchline’s sound is basic, but not in a bad way. It’s a simple sound with a unique twist, and I think it’s all in the voice. It’s unexpected and intriguing and very upbeat. They sound like bands such as Valencia, Less Than Jake, Bayside and I Am The Avalanche and claim their interests on MySpace as Lost, Pennsylvania and NOFX. And yes, in case you were wondering, only one of those is a band. I know you

album this year? Huh, that’s funny. Actually it wasn’t. It was pretty sad. Green Day. I guess I could just tell you stuff you probably already know about Green Day, like to avoid them. Let’s face it, music fans ... they are overrated. They haven’t been good since Billy Joel Armstrong decided that his songs should focus more on politics than music. And that terribly annoying chorus from “21 Guns,” come on! They were good when they first came out. Just avoid them completely now.

raspy sound is influenced by Bruce Springsteen. Don’t let that influence put you off if you’re not a fan of the Boss. They’re a great band. Also, check out their 2008 release, “The ’59 Sound.” Mumford and Sons. They came onto the scene in 2007 and have quickly become one of my new favorite bands. In 2009 they released their album, “Sigh No More.” Coming from England, they play a folk/rock type of music, but don’t let that fool you into thinking that they’re soft. Look up songs like “Little Lion Man” and “White Blank Page” to get a sense of how passionate these Brits are about their music. They play the hell out of their instruments and can give you the chills when you listen to their music. They’re currently touring Europe and unfortunately their closest show to Oxford is in Chicago in October.

Unheard/Underrated

The Gaslight Anthem. Check these guys out! They just released their third album, “American Slang,” this year and have a tour to support it. They’ll be stopping by Bogart’s in Cincinnati Sept. 22. Their upbeat, kind of raw and

were scared to ask. But that means they have fun. And that’s what being in a band is all about, right? Because if you don’t love what you’re doing, you’re not going to do it well. This may sound cliché, but Punchline is definitely one of those bands you’ll want to listen to in the car with the windows down. Hopefully it’s still warm-ish wherever you live (or if you’re in Ohio like me, you never know what the hell the

temperature is going to be the next day) and you can cruise around with “Delightfully Pleased.” Your ears will thank you. Note: To make things even better, I saw the album was recorded in Ohio, so I now like it even more. I have no idea where Steubenville is and don’t feel the need to look it up, but say it with me: “O-H!” “I-O!” Oh, and contrary to track 3, I think you can be 21 forever. I’m not sayin’, I’m just sayin’ ...

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10

Opinion

Friday August 27, 2010

Editors Thomasina Johnson Jessica Sink editorial@miamistudent.net

➤ EDITORIAL

The following piece, written by the editorial editors, reflect the majority opinion of the editorial board.

Task force must include student input T

his fall, the newly created must have direction. To ensure a Strategic Priorities Task Force successful blog about university is(SPT) is discussing methods to sues, it must not be an open mesmaintain a balanced budget over sage board where people can post the next decade. The SPT is plan- anything anywhere. Having organing forums open to student input. nization for the blog will ensure a The editorial board of The Miami more streamlined resource for both Student believes student opinions the SPT and students. must be adequately heard to enThe president of Associated Stusure the success of future Miami dent Government should communiclasses. Although cate the importance the university sent a and schedule of the press release, a letter If Miami wants SPT forums. Also, and created a website more students should with a forum blog, student input, it be involved in the most students have SPT. In a March 25 not heard about the must be clear about editorial, the board forums because foconcluded “one sturum advertising has the objectives. dent representative not reached enough from each school students to garner within Miami interest. The dates of the forums should be selected by professors and their goals are not obvious and administration of the specific to students. college. Each student would meet The times and locations of the with professors and administration forums and the topics discussed to formulate needs and opinions of must be communicated thorough a both the college and the students he permanent Blackboard event or an or she represents. After gathering e-mail to all students. the needs of the college, the student If Miami wants student input, it would discuss them with both the must be clear about the objectives. other students in the intercollegiate Students have many concerns about task force of students and the studifferent areas of the university. If dent body president. The student students want to discuss a specific body president would then relate issue, they must know when their these concerns to the Strategic Priarea of concern will be addressed orities Task Force.” without digging through pages of With a flow of interdisciadministrative paperwork. plinary student input, the SPT The blog is a smart idea to will better serve the needs of encourage conversations, but it Miami University.

➤ LETTER

Freedom of religion must be respected After reading Chloe Esposito’s opinion on the planned Park 51 Islamic Community Center in Manhattan, it has become clear that the argument is less about respect for victims of Sept. 11, 2001 and more about still having someone to blame for the attacks. I certainly empathize with her fear and anger the day of the attacks, but nine years later it seems that those opposing the center are inching ever closer to the same views the terrorists who committed the acts had. I am not, of course, accusing Chloe or anyone else of being terrorists, but it does seem that the logic the groups use is similar. If this is an argument about respect, then freedom of religion should certainly be respected. In all likelihood, Islamic terrorists, or radicals of any religious group, would oppose such free practice. Rationalizations used against the community center must not be opposed to the freedoms Americans claim to hold dear. Analogies like “putting a huge statue of Hitler in front of the tragic remains of Auschwitz or a big American flag where the atomic bomb was dropped in Japan” do not stand. The logic is laughable at best. For one, Hitler worship or Nazism or whatever else you might call such a statue are viewed as wrong, except among a group maybe as large as Al-Qaeda. It would be wrong to build the statue because, and read closely here, Hitler and the Nazis are those responsible for the deaths of millions of people. The tragedies of Sept. 11, 2001 were acts of terrorism by a group of radicals among radicals. And Islam as a whole, and certainly the groups who are behind the Islamic center, are neither responsible for nor support such wanton violence. The plan is not to build a shrine to the parties responsible for the attacks. Chloe’s last statement seems to suggest Muslims are all as inhumane as the terrorists. If she is using such inhumanity as reasoning against the center, then all seems lost with not only the acceptance of what happened, but the healing of the wounds Chloe mentioned. Instead of such name-calling, we should work toward understanding. Regardless of whether plans for Park 51 go forward, Muslims will certainly be patrons of the area and will certainly work in the tower on Ground Zero once it is built. Imagine that, Muslims working peacefully and as American citizens in the very place where the attacks occurred. Ben Stockwell President, Secular Students of Miami President stockwbm@muohio.edu

The Miami Student Oldest university newspaper in the United States, established 1826

EDITORIAL BOARD Catherine Couretas Editor in Chief Erin Fischesser News Editor Erin Maher Managing Editor Scott Allison Online Editor Thomasina Johnson Editorial Editor Jessica Sink Editorial Editor Courtney Day Campus Editor Hope Holmberg Campus Editor

Amanda Seitz Campus Editor Stephen Bell Community Editor Kelsey Bishop Community Editor Katie Giovinale Sports Editor Amelia Carpenter Features Editor Anna Turner Amusement Editor Samantha Ludington Photo Editor Hannah Miller Art Director

NOAH CARL The Miami Student

➤ LETTER

Mosque not a monument to terrorism I was disappointed that neither of your “opposing” columnists in Tuesday’s issue offered any arguments in support of the Muslim Community Center in lower Manhattan. Instead, both columnists think it wrong for the center to be built so near the site of the 9/11 catastrophe. They differ only over whether the plan is evil or merely tactless. Neither examines the questionable title of “Ground Zero Mosque” to describe a building that is not a mosque and not visible from the site of Ground Zero, nor do they question several other unfortunate and inaccurate beliefs commonly held in the United States today. Ms. Esposito laments that the events of 9/11 are forgotten. Far from it. I would argue that the memory of that day has been exploited to justify an illegal and immoral war in Iraq, the violation of civil liberties of both Americans and foreign nationals and now to deny the right of our fellow Americans to practice their religion. The memory of that day has not brought out the best in us as a nation. Perhaps it is time to re-examine what we think we know and remember about that day. Ms. Henry uses an incident from Miami sports history to suggest that since the Muslims beat our team so roundly on 9/11, they should have the courtesy to hold back a bit now. But 9/11 attackers and the Sufi worshipers at Park51 are most definitely not “on the same team.” Most Muslims around the world deplored the attacks of 9/11. The Imam associated with the proposed Park51 Center is an adherent of Sufism, a tendency within Islam at odds with violent or radical interpretations of the faith. His vision for the Center is that it will be a place where members of different faiths can meet and come to understand one another. Finally, Islamic fundamentalism is no more synonymous with terrorism than is Christian fundamentalism. Timothy McVeigh, perpetrator of the largest act of terrorism on U.S. soil before 9/11, was a Christian, but no one ever refers to his act as “Christian terrorism.” The 9/11 attack was a political act, not a religious act, and the sooner we come to understand that, the less tempted we will be to proceed down the road of intolerance. Deborah Lyons Associate Professor of Classics lyonsd@muohio.edu

Both sides must be discussed I am very upset by the article published entitled “To Build or Not to Build.” The title suggested that both sides of the Ground Zero mosque debate would be discussed, that is, in favor of building it and against building it. Instead, I read a one-sided argument against the building of the mosque and no opinion in favor of it. The language in the article, too, was offensive. One article analogized Hitler with a mosque, which is not only ludicrously untrue, but outrageously offensive to many different types of people. Every American experienced Sept. 11, 2001 and mourned, including our Muslim community. There is no reason why a few fundamental Muslims should represent a majority. These people lost family members in the tragedy too. Every American is entitled to basic rights. These include freedom of religion, and legally a mosque can absolutely be built two blocks away from Ground Zero. I may be in the minority, but I absolutely support the building of a mosque two blocks away from Ground Zero. First, the mosque is not being built

directly on top of the twin towers, but two blocks away in an old Burlington Coat Factory store. Second, there is no constitutional or legal reason why a group of people cannot build a peaceful place where they can pray and gather for social events. In conclusion, I wish that The Miami Student can learn to cover both sides of an issue rather than one, and perhaps students could see past their assumptions of Islam and let citizens do what is not only constitutionally and legally allowed, but morally right. Danielle Browske

browskdm@muohio.edu

Convocation proves successful This year’s convocation with Jay Allison, This I Believe, and the setting in South Quad was splendid. The steel drum band lent a festive, celebratory feel to the event (I couldn’t keep my foot from grass-tapping). The parade of 61 flags was stirring. A number of speakers mentioned the p-word in conjunction with intellectual pursuits, one of my favorites: passion. President Hodge mentioned Miami as a “community of discoverers and creators.” I was barely able to keep myself from shouting, “Here! Here!” Jay Allison’s keynote themes were timely and pointed for first-year students (and all of us): college as an opportunity to reinvent the self, to grow and change, to find our voices and to use the creative and disciplined craft of writing to discover what we think. The only thing I’d like to see changed is to make convocation more accessible to members of the community. The week of the event, a retired friend asked me about the convocation site. He mentioned that the lack of parking would cause him not to attend this year. I didn’t see that as a problem. The parking garage is about the same distance from South Quad as parking in the far reaches of the Millett parking lot is from the arena. I do think, however, that sitting in the hot sun is a deterrent to many people who would otherwise attend. Perhaps next year some shelter or a tent could be set up for those who need shade. We need to make sure that we have community involvement at Miami in as many ways as possible. Convocation is one of the best opportunities to do that. It’s a glorious day. Tom Romano Department of Teacher Education

Romanots@muohio.edu

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Opinion

THE MIAMI STUDENT

➤ ESSAY

FRIDAY AUGUST 27, 2010 ♦ 11

➤ PERSPECTIVE

Conformity creates tradition You’re walking to class in your new Sperry’s, wearing your favorite button down shirt and a Miami hat topped off with a Vineyard Vines or Longchamp bag to carry your books. This is the classic picture of the “Miami girl,” or guy, as long as you exchange the designer bag for a backpack. For “J. Crew U,” conformity seems to be the way of life. Conformity comes with a bad rap, a negative connotation, something nobody wants to be part of, yet it is all around us. We all enjoy the same music or it would not be on the radio, we all watch the same TV shows or they would not be aired and we all wear similar clothing or it would not be sold. Conformity is not as evil as it sounds and its presence is vital and important to the functioning of society. There are 6 billion people on the planet and over 300 million of them reside in the United States alone. Needless to say, not every one of us can be exactly the same. While we may come together to bond about overlapping hobbies and interests, our individual make-up is unique. Choosing to partake in activities and buying clothes that everyone else has does not make you any less you. You can still hold true to your own values and have something in common with everybody else.

Conformity is not as evil as it sounds and its presence is vital. When I arrived at Miami University last fall, I slowly began to notice the trend of Sperry’s. I couldn’t walk down Spring Street without passing at least four girls wearing them. Rather than feeling ashamed that I wanted to follow a trend, I bought them and was greeted with excitement into the world of Sperry’s. I felt a sense of belonging in this new community I was a part of. According to Social Psychology, the human fundamental need for social companionship drives us to conform in order to be accepted by others. Conformity occurs so we can use people as a source of information and to seek guidance. It is not a bad thing to want to feel accepted and to feel like a part of a group or community. It is possible to adapt to unspoken social norms while still retaining your individuality. Doing what is “in” or popular is merely a sign of wanting to communicate and bond with others like you. Aside from the feeling of fitting in, conformity is a vital ingredient to the functioning of society. Conformity creates tradition, and tradition creates the framework for families and communities across the world. What would happen if Christians decided to stop celebrating Christmas because everyone was doing it? Or what if nobody acknowledged his or her birthday because everyone had one? Think of how confusing it would be if everyday we had to recreate boundaries and limits for ourselves. In order for tradition to be passed down to future generations, people must conform. Without tradition we have no history, and without a history we have nothing to learn or grow from. The Miami community serves as a major example of how conformity leads to the success of carrying on traditions for hundreds of years. Without the tradition of conformity, we would have no tradition. Sarah Title

titlese@muohio.edu

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Email editorial@miaistudent.net for more information.

A Capitol State of Mind Erin Fischesser

Earlier this summer, I was kind of freaked out about beginning my senior year at Miami. The thought of leaving the safe confines of Oxford’s red bricks this coming May was more than a little disconcerting. That was, until I spent a summer in our nation’s capital. I was fortunate enough to be one of 20-some Miami students who lived in Washington, D.C. for just over two months as part of the Inside Washington Program. It was definitely the best summer of my life! Not only did I get to experience amazing things everyday, but I learned a ton and made awesome new friends. More importantly, I learned that I am more ready for the real world than I expected. The weeks I spent learning about the big city and how everything works taught me that I can handle living on my own far from the comforts of home. I found out that all of those college classes had actually prepared me for what I want to do when I “grow up.” In Washington, it was just as easy to get caught up in working hard and the hustle and bustle as it was to find yourself relaxing and spending way too much time

going out. I think this has set the tone for my final year in Oxford. Up until this point, it has

been mostly all business, but this year I’m going to find the perfect balance. After all, it is my last chance. As for all of the underclassmen, I seriously challenge you to take every opportunity pos-

sible while you are at Miami. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been in Oxford for a few years, you will learn things you never expected in places you would have never imagined. In my opinion and my experience, programs that get you out of “the Ox Box” are the ones that help you to appreciate what you have learned while you soak in even more. Take advantage of them! Whether it’s spending a semester in Luxembourg or interning in Cincinnati, branch out of our little college town when you can. Meanwhile, I will be soaking in everything I can during my last two semesters in one of my favorite places in the world. Oxford truly is an amazing place, great enough for me to miss it while I was living the life in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. While I feel I may be ready to move on when it comes time to accept my diploma, no matter where I end up I know I am going to miss this town. Believe it or not, I think I feel ready to graduate at the end of this year — something I never thought would happen. This summer taught me that Miami really does prepare us to do great things and sets us up for amazing experiences. I’m just glad I found out before May rolls around, and I thought you underclassmen would benefit from my newfound knowledge.

FISCHESSER is news editor for The Miami Student

➤ ESSAY

Internships provide more than just a paycheck Summer is consumed with sunny days, ice cream, family, barbeques, earning some extra cash and hopefully a little relaxation. Many college students across the country also spend their 12 weeks of freedom interning, with most of that time unpaid. Yes, unpaid. The concept seems silly. Working 40 hours a week and no money? But internships can turn into the best experience of your college career. Seventy percent of Miami students participate in some sort of internship, field experience, co-op or clinical assignment by the time they graduate, according to Career Services. Those who get the chance to work for a company that pays interns are the lucky ones. This summer, I worked for a small public relations firm in New York City. I got the internship through a program called Dream Careers. They helped set me up with interviews at the companies of my choice, provided housing at New York University, trips and other events to create an all-inclusive experience. Of course it didn’t come cheap, but it was by far one of the best summers of my life. I worked 9 a.m. to 6p.m. Monday through Friday. I had weekends to explore the fabulous, bustling city where I’ve always wanted to live after graduation. The most important thing I left the city with was a “glowing recommendation” from the owner of Dark PR where I worked. It’s important if you work at a small company that probably won’t be able to hire you that you leave with a recommendation that can help you land a job in the future. Many of the students in the Dream Careers program who worked at large companies like UBS got job offers, so going for larger companies usually provides more opportunities. I was the first intern of the summer, so I worked alone with the account executive for my first month. When the other two interns started, I trained them and made sure to keep my presence known. The key to

success in a summer internship is to not be afraid to stand out. Take a risk, go to your boss and ask for more work. You never want to leave your internship in August and say to yourself, “Wow, I should have done that,” or, “Why didn’t I take on that project?” You want to leave with a feeling of accomplishment. If you are one of those students who hated their internship all summer, don’t lose hope. It was still worthwhile; at least you know it’s not the job for you, and you won’t spend a year or more stuck in it after graduation. As long as you get a recommendation, it will help get you where you eventually want to go. The person you worked for is a great resource and can even act as a mentor to guide you and give advice. I’ve been in touch with my boss since I left New York City, and I plan to stay in touch so that I can use her as a resource in the future. If you have been thinking about looking or applying for an internship, there are many routes you can take. First, you might want to talk with a professor or adviser about places close to school if you want to work during the school year. If you want to intern in the summer, you can ask about options by your hometown or other cities of interest. It’s also a great idea to search online for internship placement programs; they provide inclusive opportunities in many cities so you don’t feel restricted to stay at home. I found Dream Careers through a listserv e-mail, so check those frequently and ask friends who have done internships. Networking is the first step. There are so many opportunities for students of all majors; you just have to put yourself out there. I had one of the best summers of my life, made many memories and I am confident about my career choice and my future. Samantha Friedman friedms3@muohio.edu

➤ ESSAY

Greek community builds strong bonds What is the true value of the Greek community? It is human nature to try to derive the value of things. It’s only natural to assign to everything a degree of significance, relevance or urgency that defines its “value” to us. Without this skill, human beings would be incapable of prioritization and effective time management. We would waste countless hours on frivolous things without focusing on the things that are actually valuable and important in our lives. Over the past several months, countless hours have been spent on something that many people have been trying to assign a value to: Miami University’s Greek community. From judicial hearings, press releases, interviews, studies, task forces and legislation, overhauling the Greek system has been a huge focus of not only the community itself, but also Miami’s administration, alumni and faculty advisers. However, despite the fact that there are new rules in place for the improvement of the community, I still don’t think I’ve heard anyone put forth a satisfactory reason why the Greek community is valuable in Oxford. On one hand, I have heard many argue that fraternities and sororities add little or no value and much liability — that Greek organizations only encourage destructiveness and a pervasive sense of elitism and status stratification. On the other hand, I have heard many argue that fraternities and sororities add much

value, citing that they engage in philanthropy, have x many hundredths of a GPA point above the campus average and donate a significant amount of money to the school. On the surface, it seems that both sides have sound arguments with supporting evidence, but I think they are missing the point when it comes to what makes the Greek community so unique, influential and valuable. The value of the Greek community lies in its purpose: to foster relationships among its members that go beyond typical college friendships. The founding members of these organizations recognized the frailty of everyday relationships. They saw how easily friendships could be pulled apart by trivial disagreements, differing opinions and exaggerated misunderstandings. Fraternities and sororities force their members to move beyond these things. A member of a Greek organization may get frustrated with a brother or a sister, but that person has bonded his or herself to his or her brothers and sisters and is obligated find a way to overcome frustrations, to compromise and to learn to forgive. The strength and uniqueness of these relationships cannot be overlooked. Additionally, fraternities and sororities are valuable because they push their members to pursue excellence and to better themselves not just socially, but also academically, civilly and morally. When I joined Chi Psi, I acknowledged that the brotherhood was judged by the

individual actions of its members, and I took responsibility for living up to the expectations of the fraternity. In return I received a network of brothers who held me to a higher standard than I ever held myself. My decisions no longer affected only me, but me and the Chi Psi fraternity. This has made me a far better person and has provided me with an opportunity to assist others in their pursuit of betterment. When fraternity and sorority members hold themselves and each other accountable to their values, the result is improved men and women and an improved society at large. It is from unconditional relationships and the pursuit of excellence that we have philanthropies, leadership development and alumni engagement. However, those three things are the result of the Greek community’s value, not the aspects of the community that defines its worth. Fraternities and sororities were not created to do community service, raise money for the university or have fun. Rather, they were created to build the kinds of men and women who want to serve the community, who want to give back to their alma mater and who want to change the world for the better. That is the true value of the Greek community and is why Greek life is not just good, it’s extraordinary. Nick Huber

huberns@muohio.edu


12

FYI Page

Friday August 27, 2010

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THE MIAMI STUDENT

FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, 2010 ♦ 13


14

Sports

Friday

August 27, 2010

Simmons deserves recognition Matt Fitzgerald

My Short Athletic Shorts

Y

ou may not know ESPN.com’s Bill Simmons. Good news! It’s probably not your fault … but it is time to recognize the man because he is a zeitgeist of where sports journalism is today and where it is headed. In spite of all of this, Simmons’s own employer refuses to give him much credit! For example, Simmons wrote about the National Football League (NFL) overtime rules and his suggestions were nearly the exact changes that the NFL owners agreed upon during the annual owners meeting weeks later. He’s also the brainchild of the critically acclaimed ESPN film series “30 for 30,” which covers 30 sporting events from the past 30 years that were essentially under appreciated. He even started a Twitter feed called “CelticsChants” in which he gained nearly 16,000 followers in, oh, two days, and the entire Boston Celtics crowd chanted psychologically altering words at LeBron James during Boston’s playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers. ESPN has never mentioned Simmons in connection to any of these brilliant ideas. The lack of namedropping could be likened to corporatism trying to preserve the status quo. It’s nonsensical and it points to the contentment of compromising stories to fit a formula. Cookie-cutter journalism, if you will. The odyssey of Bill Simmons is what makes him so unique. He went from a 3.0 GPA college student to an online blogger/bartender to a hugely successful writer and New York Times bestselling author for his epic, The Book of Basketball. In today’s dynamic field of journalism, the job market is more crowded than ever and print journalism is barely hanging on. The Internet has reinvented how we receive news, obviously, and it’s incredible how much success one can have with basic technological know-how and perseverance. That is precisely how Bill Simmons has earned a living, and his style of writing with many references to pop culture is actually more appealing to the masses and goes closer to the universal status quo than so-called “traditional” journalism. Many criticize Simmons for lacking professionalism and structure, but he should be praised as a genius taking advantage of the digital age we live in and spearheading a movement of revitalized sports writing that hits a larger audience while still displaying a wealth of sports knowledge. What am I proposing, ESPN? Embrace the unconventional. It’s like the crazily aggressive amateur poker player in the World Series of Poker knocking out a big-name professional while the pro sulks and complains in the aftermath. Do TV audiences want to see the amateur hotshot or the more conservative professional? You tell me. So, in the case of Mr. Simmons, do people want to read a humorous writer that creates elaborate analogies that even a non-sports fan could relate to, or do they want a standard report of, say, “Tiger Woods is struggling with golf right now” or something so obvious that it doesn’t even need to be published but is just plugged in for ordinary’s sake? You tell me. Actually, no … I’ll tell you. They want Simmons.

Check out www.miamistudent.net

for more sports stories

Editor Katie Giovinale sports@miamistudent.net

FIELD HOCKEY

RedHawks soar west to start season

By Drew McDonell Staff Writer

The Miami University field hockey team will kick off their season Aug. 27 as they head to Berkeley, Calif. to face the University of California (CAL) Golden Bears. Aug. 29, the team will take on the University of the Pacific Tigers. Many of the girls on the team are eager to have the opportunity to travel to California. “Being from California, I am very excited to be playing at CAL our first weekend of the season,” senior Mary Hall said. The Kookaburra/National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) released a pre-season poll Tuesday, which predicts each team’s final outcome for the season. The poll is based on the amount of votes each team received from coaches. The teams with the most votes are ranked the highest. The CAL Golden Bears are expected to be a good matchup for the ’Hawks, as they ranked higher on the Division I pre-season poll. CAL received 50 votes, while Miami received nine. The team is excited to face the Golden Bears again after defeating them in a close 2-1 overtime match last year. The Pacific Tigers are also expected to be great competition, as they received many votes in the NFHCA pre-season poll as well. The RedHawks were also pleased to find that Miami is predicted to take second place in the Mid-American Conference (MAC). Kent State is slated to take first, while Ohio University is predicted to take third. Head Coach Jill Reeve said freshman goalkeeper Sarah Mueller has positively influenced the team. “Sarah Mueller has been a rock star in the cage during preseason and the whole team is enjoying the competitive presence that stands behind them,” Reeve said. “I like her aggressive playing style and calming effect she has on our backfield.” The upcoming matches will also provide an opportunity for the team to showcase the new freshman additions. The upperclassmen have already taken the initiative to help the younger girls prepare for their busy schedule and adjust to their new team. “Our upperclassmen all have good leadership qualities, we have had the most experience and therefore can advise and help the

MICHAEL GRIGGS The Miami Student

Kylie Landeros controls the ball in a game against CMU Sept. 11, 2009. underclassmen,” Hall said. “The responsibility consists of both leading by example on and off the field. It is important to show incoming freshmen what your team prides itself on and how we operate. We do a good job of that.” The RedHawks will play CAL 8 p.m. Aug.27.

MICHAEL GRIGGS The Miami Student

Head Coach Michael Haywood instructs his team during their game against the University of Toledo Oct. 31, 2009.

FOOTBALL

Haywood aims for tradition

By JM Rieger Staff Writer

Entering his second football season at Miami, Head Coach Michael Haywood is looking to recreate the winning tradition that so many coaches before him have had. In his 22 seasons of coaching football, Haywood has had the privilege of working with coaches such as Nick Saban, Charlie Weis, Mack Brown and Lou Holtz, but he is proud to be the head coach at Miami. “My fondest coaching memory was when (Athletic Director) Brad Bates called me at 5 a.m. when I was in Hawaii and offered me the head coaching job at Miami,” Haywood said. “(Miami) is an institution with outstanding academics and a storied football tradition.” After lettering four years at

Notre Dame first as a wide receiver and then as a cornerback, Haywood got into coaching when he was contacted to become a graduate assistant at Minnesota in 1988 and then became an assistant coach at Army the following year. Haywood has used his past experiences and his knowledge of the game to start rebuilding Miami into a powerhouse school in the Mid-American Conference once again. “I try to change the quality of life of the students,” Haywood said. “We need to (carry) ourselves like champions, we need to eat nutritious foods like champions, we need to lift like champions, we need to perform in the classroom and become good students like champions and we need to become an expert at our position like a champion.” Haywood’s leadership has

helped to reshape the Red and White both on and off the field. “I think that the strongest part of our team is that we have become closer together this offseason,” senior offensive lineman Bob Gulley said. “(Coach Haywood) has enforced effort, toughness and attitude in the team, which has really helped us prepare for the season.” Although the RedHawks have a relatively young squad taking the field this season, there are some key seniors such as Gulley and senior safety Jordan Gafford, both of whom are captains for Miami, who will help to lead the Red and White this season. For Gafford, it is his second straight season as a captain, and he will be the main defensive leader for the RedHawks. “Gafford brings experience and knowledge to this team,”

Haywood said. “He uses his Christian ways to help give direction and guidance to the other guys and has really made an impact on this team.” In addition to Gafford and Gulley, redshirt sophomore quarterback Zac Dysert and sophomore defensive lineman Austin Brown were also named captains for the 2010 season. Brown has quickly become one of the RedHawks’ top defensive players in only his second season at Miami, while all eyes will be on Dysert after a breakthrough season last year. With just over a week until the ’Hawks’ season opener, players and coaches alike are anxious to get back on the field. “I am looking forward to competing against 12 different opponents this year,” Haywood said. “But I also enjoy being a dad, which is the best part of my day.”


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