December 3, 2013 | The Miami Student

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

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

VOLUME 141 NO. 25

MIAMI UNIVERSITY OXFORD, OHIO

TODAY IN MIAMI HISTORY In 2002, The Miami Student captured an annual Greek tradition with a front-page photo titled, “The Griswolds come to Oxford.” The image, taken by Miami student Jeff Blatnik, featured the Phi Kappa Psi house at 122 S. Campus Ave, which had been decked out with Christmas lights, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation-Style.”

Prescription drug epidemic on the rise

BY VICTORIA SLATER CAMPUS EDITOR

A final looming five hours in the future, Miami student Alex* tries to surrender to his studying. But pages of textbook and notes splayed on his desk provide nothing more than anxiety for him and his reeling mind. He scratches his neck, looks to the ceiling and opens the bottom drawer of his desk. There he finds his kind of sanctuary, his escape.

He reaches over and selects two: Xanax and Adderall pills fall to his palm, and make a swift journey to his mouth, down his throat and settling in his belly. With a sigh, he feels the calming effects within moments.

Not long ago, this was more than just a habit for Alex, whose name has been changed to protect patient confidentiality. This was an addiction. An addiction that he now treats each month.

His addiction is reflective of an alarming, but little-known trend.

In the United States, the abuse of prescription drugs now exceeds the abuse of methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin and ecstasy combined, according to Generation Rx Initiative, which is a preventive program instituted by the Ohio State University College of Pharmacy. Additionally, according to a study conducted by Fox News in 2013, 20 percent of high school graduates have admitted to abusing a prescription drug for a non-medical reason.

This is a trend no doubt, but Dr. Joshua Hersh, board certified psychiatrist at SCS, believes it could be more.

“Prescription drug abuse is becoming an epidemic,” Hersh said.

OVERDOSES INVOLVING PRESCRIPTION DRUGS ARE AT EPIDEMIC LEVELS AND NOW KILL MORE AMERICANS THAN HEROIN AND COCAINE COMBINED.1

PILL

SOURCES 6

72%

In the U.S 1 person

from friends and family

DIES

19mins

every

from a drug overdose, a tragedy driven largely by the misuse of prescription painkillers. 3

Between 1993 and 2005

BETWEEN 1991 AND 2010 CONSUMPTION OF PRESCRIPTION STIMULANTS INCREASED FROM 5 MILLION TO 45 MILLION.2

17% prescribed by one doctor 7%other sources 4% drug dealers

the proportion of college students

abusing prescription drugs

went up dramatically:

people per day begin taking prescription drugs for non-medical use 4

OPIOID ANALGESICS Vicodin, OxyContin, Percocet,Methadone

increased 343%

DRUG OVERDOSE DEATH RATES IN THE US HAVE MORE THAN TRIPLED SINCE 1990. 7

STIMULANTS Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall

increased 93%

5

1990

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1994

1996

1998

2000

2002

2004

2006

2008

CONTRIBUTED BY CLINTON FOUNDATION

Over the next five years, the Clinton Health Matters Initiative plans to save over 10,000 lives by cutting in half theTHE number of young people who misuse prescription drugs for the first time.

INITIATIVE IS MAKING A FIVE YEAR COMMITMENT TO PUT THE UNITED STATES ON A PATH ELIMINATING THE CHRONIC PRESCRIPTION DRUG ABUSE CHALLENGING BY THE BEGINNING OF THE NEXT DECADE AND HELPING DRUG USERS GETare ONprimarA SAFER, HEALTHIER IN LIFE. “I probably seeNON-MEDICAL each year, 10 PRESCRIPTION to Hersh said these drugs common,”PATH he said.

20 students who come in particularly ily prescribed for pain, but are comThe demographic of drug abusers OVER NEXT they FIVE have YEARS, MATTERS INITIATIVE PLANS TO SAVE OVER LIVES BY athto see meTHE because a THE prob-CLINTON monlyHEALTH misused for pain, anxiety varies as well, but10,000 Hersh believes CUTTING IN HALF THE NUMBER OF YOUNG PEOPLE WHO MISUSE PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FOR THE FIRST TIME. lem with prescription drugs of some and insomnia.

A High Dose letes tend to use prescription opiates United States. Centers for Disease Control. CDC Vitalsigns: Prescription Drug Overdoses in the U.S. 2011. Web. 01 May 2013. U.S. National Institute On Drug Abuse. Department of Health and Human Services. Prescription sort,” Hersh said.

Another recovering Miami user more than the average student.

Drugs: Abuse and Addiction. No11-4881. 2011. Web. 01 May 2013. United States. Centers for Disease Control. CDC Grand Rounds: Prescription Drug Overdoses - a U.S. Epidemic. 1st ed. Vol. 61. 2013. Web. 01 May 2013. Cotto, Gend Med 2013. espe According to Hersh, prescription "Wasting Thatthenumber does not reflect stuin treatment, Tyler, whose name has “If you looked at7(5):402-413, athletes, Best and the Brightest: Substance Abuse at America's Colleges and Universities." National Center on addiction and substance abuse Columbia University, CASAColumbia.org: Home. Mar. 2007. Web. 01 May 2013. drug abuse can be defined and iden- dents who abuse and refuse to seek also been changed to protect patient cially if you went and interviewed National Vital Statistics System. Drug overdose death rates by state. 2008. tified when a user does one or more ongoing help, he notes. confidentiality, said he used prescrip- members of the hockey team or the of the following: takes prescription “Those do not account for the tion opiates like Oxycontin to numb football team, you’d find that the rate medication without a prescription; onesFor who don’t acknowledge they painful emotions. of [opiate use] would probably be more information: clintonfoundation.org/healthmatters | #CFHealthMatters | 646.775.9151 sumall.org Created by 2014 Pledgemaker takes more medication than pre- have a problem,” Hersh said. “There “Pain killers take you away from scribed; takes drugs in non-recom- is a number of students who aren’t yourself and keep emotion at bay,” mended ways, such as through the ready to deal with their problem in Tyler said. “After tragedies in my life, We absolutely see panose; sells or shares medication with appropriate ways. They usually only I turned to these drugs for comfort.” tients who have sold the others; or obtains drugs from several come in for one or two sessions, bePrescription stimulants, Hersh drug, and that fuels the different doctors. cause they are not ready to address said, are traditionally prescribed for All of these misuses of prescrip- the problem further.” learning disorders, such as Attenproblem.” tion drugs — which can be both illicit tion Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and life threatening — are present on Capsule Catalogue (ADHD), and are commonly misDR. JOSHUA HERSH Miami’s campus. used for weight loss and sleep disorPSYCHIATRIST A study conducted by The Ohio Alex, now in recovery, remembers ders. Popular stimulants include AdState University of 5,000 college the impressive assortment of drugs derall and Ritalin. students found 9.2 percent used he once used.

Senior Aimee Madrigrano uses higher than 9.2 percent,” Hersh said. prescription opiates at least once “I used pretty much everything,” Adderall to treat ADD. “I have found that myself, working a year, 5.1 percent used sedatives he said. “Adderall, Ambien, Xanax.

“I am prescribed Adderall because with a lot of athletes, that the rate at least once a year and 4.4 percent Klonopon, Percocet, Morphine, Sub- they previously diagnosed me with of prescription opiate abuse is fairly used stimulants at least once a year. oxone, Ketamine and Opine. Now I depression and had me on things for high and have seen a number of folks Hersh believes these statistics accu- only use Xanax once in awhile.” that. Then I went to a new therapist who are addicted to prescription opirately reflect how Miami student use He used each drug, he said, for a and she figured out that I actually was ates who are athletes.” prescription drugs. different purpose. suffering from ADD,” she said.

Hersh explained that athletes In 2009, Miami participated in a “Adderall helps me study,” he Hersh explained that prescrip- might treat an injury with opiates Healthy Minds Study, an annual sur- said. “The benzos chilled me out and tion benzos, such as Xanax, Klono- legitimately obtained by a doctor’s vey-based study examining mental helped my anxiety and the opiates pin, Ambien and Ketamine, are prescription or by borrowing pills prescribed to calm anxiety and from a friend. The continuous use treat insomnia. of the medicine may build up to de“These drugs make you feel pretty pendency, which can often spiral Pain killers take you away from yourself and keep damn good so you want to keep us- into addiction. emotion at bay. After tragedies in my life, I turned to ing them,” Alex said.

However, recovering user Tyler The popularity of certain prescrip- said anyone is at risk. these drugs for comfort.”

“Pills don’t discriminate. People TYLER tion drugs over others can vary, according to Hersh. He said he is aware would be shocked if they found out MIAMI STUDENT of the prevalence of Adderall among who are the drug addicts around high school and college students who them,” he said. need that extra boost to survive cramhealth and related issues. The study made me feel great and forget about ming sessions or all-nighters. HowThe Pursuit of Pills surveyed about 350 students Miami my problems.” ever, contrary to popular belief, he students. The results indicated that According to Hersh, three gen- does not think stimulants are the most Despite being in treatment in an 18 percent of students are prescribed eral classes of addictive prescription common prescription drugs used. effort to curb his drug habits, Alex medication and 4 percent use psycho drugs exist: opiates, stimulants and “People perceive stimulants, still knows how to get the drugs he stimulants without a prescription, sedatives, which are also known as like Adderall, as the most com- craves. mirroring Ohio State’s trends. benzodiazepines or “benzos.”

“I obtained the Xanax and Klonomon prescription drug used, when Hersh said he treats a few of these Common opiate brands include really prescription opiates like Vi- pin through legitimate prescripstudents each year at the SCS. Percocet, Oxycontin and Vicodin. codin and Oxycontin are the most tions, but after awhile, the monthly 1

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5 6

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prescriptions were not enough to sustain my habit so I would buy them off the streets,” he said.

At the SCS, Hersh works diligently to ensure prescriptions are only administered to patients who are in true need, who do not exhibit telltale signs of any addiction or other issues.

“We have an extensive testing approach for how we prescribe drugs,” Hersh said. “It includes a four-to-six week long screening process.”

The process starts with a patient’s referral to the SCS, and then the patient will undergo screening contingent on what symptoms they are displaying. If a patient is prescribed stimulants, he or she will complete behavioral tests. Patients prescribed sedatives must go through an initial anxiety workshop and may be prescribed non-addictive substances, and then will be monitored closely.

Hersh added that it is unlikely for students to be prescribed prescription painkillers at Miami’s health center.

“Doctors at Student Health Services will not often prescribe opiates,” he said. “They will refer patients to surgeons or physical therapists and will prescribe medications like ibuprofen instead.”

Hersh said if SCS physicians do prescribe any controlled substance to a patient, they conduct a urine sample to ensure the patient is not currently taking any other illicit drugs.

Hersh is also aware of the game many pro prescription drug abusers play to obtain their fix. This game — doctor shopping — occurs when users obtain controlled substances from different doctors. Hersh said in recent years, however, Ohio has implemented the Ohio Automated Rx Reporting System (OARRS), which is a prescription drug-monitoring program. The system allows a physician to look up a certain patient and see all the doctors they have seen and the prescriptions they have received in Ohio and several other states.

“We are getting better at pinpointing the folks who are what we like to call ‘doctor shopping,’” Hersh said.

“We will terminate any prescriptions that they are receiving from a doctor if they seem to have a problem.”

But Hersh and the SCS can only do so much to manage the prescription drug epidemic. Abusers like Alex and Tyler cannot feed their addictions with the meager crumbs obtained through doctors’ prescriptions. The result? They must turn to dealers.

“We absolutely see patients who have sold the drug, and that fuels the problem,” Hersh said. “It helps maintain their addiction, as they get money from selling the drug.”

Miami graduate Joe, whose name has been changed, is a recovering addict who spent his time at Miami selling prescription drugs like Percocet and Oxycontin on the street. Joe said he was one corner of a regular and growing network of Oxford dealers and users.

“I gave to about fifteen kids who were my workers, but they sold to 250 regularly, and those kids gave to their friends,” Joe said. “In the Oxford area, I was aware of around 20 dealers.”

With some addicts devoting $200 to $400 a day to their habits, according to Alex, a dealer could make a sizable income.

“On average, I made about $2,000 to $5,000 a week,” Joe said.

Hersh said this payday makes the prescription drug market look quite appealing.

“That is even more than many make in full-time jobs,” Hersh said.

“That’s a big reason why you might be attracted to this kind of lifestyle.”

To continue in Friday’s issue...

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CAMPUS

EDITORS REIS THEBAULT VICTORIA SLATER

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

CAMPUS@MIAMISTUDENT.NET

Hodge’s salary: It pays to be president

BY EMILY C. TATE

FOR THE MIAMI STUDENT

According to Miami’s General Counsel Robin Parker, President David Hodge is eligible for an annual bonus up to 20 percent of his base salary of $409,209. However, for five of the past six years, he has declined full or partial values of these bonuses.

“For a number of years, he has turned it down,” Parker said. “Starting in 2008, the Board [of Trustees] offered him a bonus, which he declined. He told the board that for the next three years, from 2009-11, he would not accept a bonus.”

She explained that those were years when the university did not have enough funds to grant raises to the other faculty and staff members, so Hodge did not want to accept additional money himself.

Not only has he denied his bonuses on many occasions, but also on one occasion, Hodge even forewent a portion of his base pay.

“In 2010, [Hodge] and several of the vice presidents took a 10day furlough of work without pay,” Parker said.

As a result, the president’s salary took a $15,000 dip that year.

However, that may seem like just another drop in the ocean with a base pay that totals several hundred thousand dollars. Hodge’s salary has gradually increased since he first took the position in 2006, starting at $325,000. For the 2013-14 fiscal year, his annual salary amounts to $409,209, according to the Director of University News and Communications Claire Wagner.

This number is determined by the Board of Trustees, which acts as the governing body for Miami. The board is comprised of nine in-state members who are appointed by the governor of Ohio, five non-voting national trustees who live outside of the state of Ohio, and two nonvoting student trustees. Though it is not a requirement for the position, Parker said most board members are also Miami alumni.

The Board of Trustees typically discusses the president’s pay in September of each year, at which time they evaluate his performance from the previous fiscal year (for Miami, this is July 1 – June 30).

“I think they look at performance,” Parker said. “Annually, they set goals and evaluate [Hodge] against the accomplishment of those goals. Then they consider other factors like the

[economic] market.”

Sophomore Grace Remington said she would guess that the average university president probably makes a couple hundred thousand dollars, but according to findings from the Chronicle of Higher Education in 2011, the average salary for presidents of public universities was nearly twice as much as she estimated at $383,800, and that of private universities only slightly higher at $386,000.

However, some of the nation’s highest-paid university presidents have far exceeded that number.

Judging by base salary alone, Ohio State University’s E. Gordon Gee was last year’s (2011-12) highestpaid public university president in the country, at $830,439, according to an article by ABC News.

Bonuses, or “compensation pay,” included, his salary totaled to more than $2 million dollars. In 2007, he was also the first public-university president to have a salary exceeding $1 million.

There are now four public university presidents and at least 36 private university presidents whose salaries exceed $1 million, according to Chronicle’s study in 2009.

The New York Times published

JALEN WALKER THE MIAMI STUDENT

PRESIDENT HODGE an article showing that the four highest-paid presidents of private universities in the United States all have salaries that exceed $2 million, with Drexel University in number one with an overall compensation of

almost $5 million.

The New York Times also found that the “typical president earned 3.7

HODGE, SEE PAGE 9

MU event gives the gift of holiday spirit

BY MARANDA BAILO FOR THE MIAMI STUDENT

AMANDA PALISWAT THE MIAMI STUDENT

HEAVY METAL

Second-year grad student Ben Mark, junior Danielle Ross and junior Morgan Rumpler display their work for the Miami Metals group.

Business fraternity date auction battles cancer

BY STEVEN BEYNON FOR THE MIAMI STUDENT

The business fraternity Pi Sigma Epsilon (PSE) is hosting a charity date auction at The Wood’s Sidebar.

Proceeds will go toward breast cancer research and awareness. Jillian Moran is a member of PSE. She is helping plan the event, which takes place 9 p.m.Tuesday, Dec. 3.

“100 percent of the proceeds go to the Karen Wellington Foundation,” Moran said. “We partnered with the foundation last year and they’re really great at supporting women with breast cancer.

Anyone can bid.”

PSE member Danielle Antony managed the Date Auction event last year.

“The foundation sends women and their family with breast cancer on vacations,” Antony said. “Our charity is also to build awareness for the Karen Wellington Foundation.”

According to the Karen Wellington Foundation’s official website, the foundation began in 2007 in honor of Karen Wellington who was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 30. Married with two kids, she lived her final 10 years to the fullest.

“We collect volunteers of students and faculty, some of which are nominated by their friends,”

Moran said. “People interested can sign up on our Facebook page and we are reaching out to sororities and athletic teams on campus for folks to be auctioned off.”

Anyone can sign up to be a date, as long as they do so before 12 p.m. noon Dec. 2, current manager of the event Zach Paul said.

According to Moran, the students and faculty being auctioned off will go on stage at The Wood’s bar. The emcee will recite a short bio of the person and the bidding will begin.

Bidding typically starts off at $10, but it can get pricey.

“Last year, the dean of the business school went for $300,” Paul said.

The person auctioned off is also sometimes attached with other incentives.

“A few extras are also included or auctioned off on their own,” Antony said. “For instance, tickets to football games. Local places in Oxford like Buffalo Wild Wings donate gift cards to the event. We raised $3,200 last year, which is $26 higher than 2011.”

The Wood’s is a supporter of the event. In addition to hosting the auction, they have had drink specials in the past and this year will be

DATE,

SEE PAGE 9

The Miami Holiday Project is an annual event that raises funds to buy Christmas gifts for 179 foster children under court supervision in Butler and Preble Counties due to abuse, neglect or abandonment. The project hopes to raise $20,000 by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4.

Senior Chelsea Menke has been an active participant in this project since 2010 and said it became the highlight of her first semester at Miami.

“If every student at Miami donated $1, or if 4,000 students decided to give $4 rather than buying Starbucks, we would reach our goal in no time,” she said.

The purpose of this serviceevent, planned by Miami University’s Classified Personnel Advisory Committee (CPAC), is to give back to the community and to help bring joy to the holidays of these children.

All donations will go toward bedding, clothing, hygiene needs, special needs items for those with disabilities and items on the children’s wish lists.

Organizers purchase these gifts from Meijer, with the money from donations, and then they are delivered to Phillips Hall, where two racquetball courts become “Santa’s Workshop” as the volunteers spend four days wrapping the presents.

The presents are then taken to the county agency and the guardian aids deliver them to the children.

“One of the sweetest stories I heard, but also really sad, is a story of a little girl who kept the wrapping paper from her presents in her pillowcase,” Menke said. “She had never before seen such pretty paper and couldn’t imagine throwing it away. Other kids can’t believe that these gifts are theirs; they will put the presents back in their bags as if to give them back.”

Students can help participate in the project by signing up to shop for the presents, or to wrap them. They can also donate money, or new toys, books, games and balls. Donations can be dropped off from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 106 Phillips Hall. All donations must be received by Wednesday, Dec. 4.

“This is the 18th year that Miami’s staff has encouraged

CONSTRUCTION GOING ‘ARM’ STRONG

participation to raise awareness and joy for these vulnerable young kids,” Anita Sackenheim, chair of the Miami Holiday Project, said.

Many other organizations and groups on-campus hold different fundraisers, such as bake sales or cook-offs, and all proceeds go directly to children in need.

Junior Marissa Horwitz said she thinks this service project is an amazing way to increase the community’s awareness of children in need.

“Just the thought of lighting up these kids’ faces on Christmas morning seriously makes me so happy,” she said. “I think it’d be really cool if we also had a county winter clothing drive for kids who can’t afford warm jackets, ear muffs, or gloves.

I love the idea of giving back during a time of Christmas spirit.”

There is no better way, volunteers said, to spread holiday cheer than to give to others.

“This project has changed my entire perspective on Christmas,” Menke said. “Instead of thinking ‘what do I want,’ I think, ‘what do others need?’ I get to act as Santa, which is awesome.”

ASHLY HORTON THE MIAMI STUDENT

The anticipated Armstrong Student center is in its final stages of construction as it prepares to open during this year’s winter term.

Q&A with new dean of FSB Matthew Myers

BY DOUG MILLER

FOR THE MIAMI STUDENT

Q. Where are you from, where did you go to college and what was your major?

A. I’m originally from Louisville, Ky. I have a PhD from Michigan State University, and a Masters in International Business Studies from the University of South Carolina. My undergraduate degree is from the University of Louisville.

Q. How did you become interested you in the position?

A. Anyone familiar with this university and the quality of people involved with its educational mission would be interested in being a part of this community.

Q. As the dean of Farmer School of Business (FSB), what does your job entail? What are some of your goals?

A. The dean of FSB is responsible for providing the students, staff and faculty with the tools they need to do their jobs well, for helping to raise funds to assist in

achieving the school’s goals and for being a solid representative of both the Farmer School and Miami University.

Q. What aspect of Miami excites you the most?

A. What excites me most is how engaged everyone is, from alumni to faculty and staff to students, in the effort to represent this institution and participate in its mission. Not every university has that level of dedication from all its constituencies, and Miami is truly exceptional in that regard.

EDITORS JANE BLAZER CHRIS CURME

COMMUNITY

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

COMMUNITY@MIAMISTUDENT.NET

3

POLICE OPD suspends jailing practice

BEAT

Two underage females lead to McDouble arrest At 1:23 a.m. Wednesday, an OPD officer driving east on West Spring Street saw a female running in the road. The officer asked the girl if she was alright, to which she responded, “Fine, McDonalds.”

The officer asked the girl to stop, and offered her a ride to McDonalds. She got into the cruiser and once she and the officer arrived at McDonalds, the officer noticed the girl smelled of alcohol. He asked the female for her ID. The female presented a fictitious New York license, and later a real California ID. During the transaction, the officer noticed the girl had a bruise on her face, and decided to take her to the ER. When in the ER, one of the girl’s friends arrived. She was covered in mud and was wearing a bar wristband. When asked for an ID, the girl presented the officer an expired Ohio license, which did not belong to her. The female said she did not have another ID, but gave her information to the officer.

Both females were charged with sales to and use by underage persons and certain acts prohibited. They were taken to Butler County Jail.

transportation to Butler County Jail said Holzworth. The reason for the transport would be articulated in the arresting officer’s report.

OPD transported 90 arrestees to the Butler County Jail of the approximately 1,600 reported offenses since the beginning of 2013, according to Holzworth.

Not all of those transported to Butler County Jail were Miami University students, nor were they all liquor-related offenses.

Holzworth said this practice was a short-term tactic by the OPD to deal with the increasing problem of the illegal and/or overconsumption of alcohol and/or other substances that the Oxford community faces.

“We recognize that we cannot change the world,” Holzworth

BY KAILA FRISONE SENIOR STAFF WRITER

The Oxford Police Department (OPD) suspended the practice of sending arrestees to the Butler County Jail for some misdemeanors, but several students are unaware that this is no longer OPD’s policy.

According to an article published in The Miami Student, the Associated Student Government (ASG) met Nov. 12 to discuss a resolution that would call for a change to OPD’s detention policy. OPD Chief Bob Holzworth confirmed that the practice was suspended Sept. 27, 2013.

Now, only aggravating circumstances would result in

said. “This is not just an Oxford problem, this is a national problem.

But still, we have to try to make a difference here.”

Holzworth said the OPD is looking for a long-term solution to alleviate the ever-present issue of people putting themselves at risk. He is willing to collaborate with Miami students, organizations and community members to develop a system that will educate individuals.

“We can’t arrest our way out of this problem,” he said. “We’re trying to come up with something creative, and we’re willing to work with anyone who wants to sit down to have a concrete good discussion about what we could do to make Oxford a safer place for everyone here.”

Holzworth said the OPD has not necessarily had an active relationship with ASG in the past, but he said he hopes the discussion OPD recently had with ASG is the beginning of many discussions to develop a concrete, viable, long-term solution.

He also said that OPD does what it can with its limited resources.

25 officers comprise the OPD, but Holzworth said the department could use about 50-75 officers during peak periods.

“With the limited number of people that we have, we are trying to devote a lot of energy and time into this problem of the overconsumption of something that people shouldn’t be doing,” Holzworth said.

Student on the Tweet

Headlocks, busted door locks, now locked in jail At 3:15 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26, OPD officers responded to a report of burglary in the 100 block of N. University Ave. The residents claimed a male had broken into the house, which woke them up, and was currently in their living room.

One resident put the male in a headlock and the other tried to find his wallet to identify him.

Suddenly, three males broke down the front door, which was locked, and began to fight the residents. Once the alleged intruder was freed, the foursome ran out the front door.

The front door and a wall had been damaged and the residents stated they wished to press charges and claimed they could identify the males if they saw them again. The residents thought the males lived at a house to the north, OPD said.

When officers arrived at the house in question, they heard several males discussing a fight.

When the officers knocked, one male came outside and claimed he had not been in a fight that night, but that one of his housemates had been, OPD said.

The officers asked to speak with the other housemates and asked them if they would go to the other house so the residents could try to identify them. Once the residents saw the males, they said the group was definitely that which had come into their house.

The males were transported to OPD for further questioning whereupon they claimed they entered the house after seeing their friend being restrained.

The males denied breaking the door down and insisted that it was already open when they arrived and that they had only pushed the residents off of their friend to free him. The males were charged with aggravated burglary and taken to Butler County Jail.

Students plunge into colorful urban community

BY KATIE TAYLOR EDITOR IN CHIEF

“Ghetto,” “dangerous,” “poor.”

These were a few of the words Miami students used when asked to describe Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine (OTR) community. But that was before they found themselves in the heart of the city for a night.

The Urban Plunge program is a 24-hour community service event put on by Miami University’s Urban Teaching Cohort (UTC). After piling into a van on Friday, Nov. 8, students spent the night touring the city, tutoring local children and transforming their concept of the community.

“We went on a tour, but it was really so much more than a tour,” Sarah Duncan said, a junior who was in attendance.

The event was coordinated with Peaslee Neighborhood Center volunteers who work in the city every day. Community Education and Volunteer Coordinator Jenn Summers shared a bit of OTR’s history as she walked the group down a street of

empty homes. “[OTR] is about people who have been building community and doing things here, but because they don’t have a lot of money, they don’t make as huge of a dent as say a developer with pockets that are pretty deep.”

According to Summers, OTR is the largest intact historic district in the United States, but many buildings are being torn down and transformed into pricey businesses and homes. Summers said many of the residents have lived there for as many as 40 years, but they walk out their front doors now and hardly recognize the place.

While renovations have brought in new people and venues, the increased price of real estate has forced others out, leaving behind a large homeless population and class divide.

The group got to hear more about these developing issues when having dinner with members of the local homeless coalition.

“It was really interesting to hear from a homeless person’s

perspective because you see people on the street, but you don’t necessarily know what their story is,” Duncan said. “This was somebody who was willing to tell their whole story, especially about something like experiencing homelessness; I’m sure that’s something that’s hard to talk about.”

The Urban Plunge had students go beyond simply hearing about poverty in OTR. “We did an activity at Findlay market for lunch where we were given $1.25 to eat, which was supposed to emulate what it’s like getting lunch on food stamps,” Duncan said.

According to her, the experience provided some much-needed perspective after spending three years on Miami’s campus. “[OTR] is louder in the best sense, people come up and talk to you,” Duncan said. “You walk around Miami and sometimes its just like you’re walking through a brick jungle. Over-the-Rhine is a lot more diverse, from the colors of the

buildings to all the different kinds of people you meet there.”

The Urban Plunge program is held three times per semester, with the next one set for Feb. 8. Each trip incorporates different activities and provides an opportunity for students to get involved.

“It’s so important for us to go out and experience different areas and see how people live,” Duncan said.

“It’s really important to go out and get your feet wet.”

For more information about Urban Plunge, students can contact event director Tammy Schwartz at 513-529-0434.

Those looking to get involved can also contact Summers with Peaslee Neighborhood Center at volunteer@peasleecenter.org.

“In order to understand the world, you have to be able to think critically, figure out what is happening and not just take things at face value,” Summers said. “So that’s one thing we do on an urban emersion to help, and we hope that people will do that everywhere they go.”

CRIME STATISTICS: November 24 – December 1 TOTAL INDIVIDUALS CHARGED: 8 TOTAL CRIMES: 10

Driving with a suspended license OVI Theft Aggravated Burglary Certain Acts Prohibited Sales to and Use by Underage Persons

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ANNE GARDNER THE MIAMI STUDENT

McKEEHAN IS KEEN ON MAYORSHIP

Recently elected mayor of Oxford, Kevin McKeehan, and vice mayor, Kate Rousmaniere, were all smiles Monday evening at the Oxford City Council swearing-in ceremony.The council members elect the mayor.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

EDITORS BILLY RAFAEL LAUREN KIGGINS

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

ARTS@MIAMISTUDENT.NET

Students explore theater in winter term

BY ERIC MOENICH

FOR THE MIAMI STUDENT

Thespians and causal theatergoers alike are excited about the upcoming Music Theatre Intensive offered during the new winter term. When the musical theatre minor was announced two years ago, students inundated the department with requests for opportunities for non-majors and students who were not currently taking any courses in theater. In response to this surge of interest, the Winter Music Theatre Intensive was created to help students all over campus to express their passion for theater.

The course itself (SCA 299A)

is designed specifically for nonmajors to help them improve their singing, acting, and dancing skills.

Over the span of three weeks, the three-credit-hour workshop will help students to perfect their strong skills and build upon weaker ones.

At the end of the intensive, all students will perform selections from Broadway in a cabaret performance to showcase their growth as performers.

Each day begins with a dance and movement exercise and the students are then divided into acting or voice classes. After lunch, the two groups switch in order for the students to get training in all aspects of the skills needed to

succeed in theater. After these classes finish for the day, students will then participate in a clinic, master class, or presentation by professionals in the world of musical theater.

The course can also be part of a self-designed thematic sequence in theatre to compliment the student’s current area of study.

“We want to encourage nonmajors to enroll,” Alison Acord, the Co-Director for the Musical Theatre Minor, said. “Everyone, no matter their major or experience level, can benefit from the self-confidence learned from acting, singing, and dancing.”

Acord described past experiences in which former students have

recounted the importance of taking the workshop. The confidence they gained from their experiences not only aided them in preparation for professional theater auditions but for internships and interviews as well. From learning what to say to what to wear, the intensive provides several great tips for success on the stage.

With some 3,800 students preparing for the upcoming winter term, Assistant Provost for Global Initiatives Cheryl Young recognized that they may have important questions about its technical aspects.

“There are so many offices available and willing to help answer questions,” Young said.

“We are here to help and support our students.”

Young suggests that students learn about all of the innovative experiences available for further learning by visiting the FAQ located at http://www.miamioh.edu/ winterterm/faqs/index.html.

As for the Music Theatre Intensive, senior Dallas Ray is eager to participate.

“This semester, I decided that I really wanted to pursue theater after college,” Ray said. “This is a really neat opportunity for anyone interested in musical theatre, especially for those preparing for upcoming show auditions.”

The deadline to register is Dec. 6.

‘Book Thief’ steals more than hearts Cheezies record Christmas at the box office with its storytelling single for 25th anniversary MOVIE REVIEW

BY BRITTON PERELMAN FOR THE MIAMI STUDENT

“Words are life, Liesel. All those pages, they’re for you to fill.”

Based on the New York Times bestselling novel, “The Book Thief” is a solid adaptation that will please those who have read the book and those who have not alike. “The Book Thief” tells the tale of nine-year-old Liesel Meminger, focusing on her life with a German foster family during the years of World War II. Having read and adored the book six years ago, I was skeptical going into the theater because I didn’t think the story would adapt well for the screen.

I’m happy to say that my skepticism faded away after the first fifteen minutes.

The movie is lovely visually, both in cinematography and set design. That, combined with spot-on casting, was enough to draw you in. But it’s the story itself that keeps you interested, not the external choices about casting or camera angles made by directors or cinematographers.

Over the course of two hours, you come to genuinely care about the characters and what happens to them. Whether you are reading

BY BILLY RAFAEL

the book or watching the movie, you are truly affected by their stories once it’s over.

The only downfall of this otherwise wonderful adaptation was the reason for my skepticism in the first place, one that is more of an afterthought as someone who has read the book than an actual problem with the film; the issue of the narrator.

Death is a “living” being who is tasked with collecting the souls of those people who have died.

He is the one who tells Liesel’s story, and, in the book, does so in a way that makes him a part of the story itself because he is such an active narrator.

While Death does pop in for narration during the movie, it doesn’t seem as cohesive with the rest of the story and I wonder if those viewers who didn’t read the book before seeing the movie found Death’s narrations odd and random.

Unfortunately, I didn’t feel as though the unique narrator that leads readers through the novel transferred to screen well in the adaptation, though, given the circumstances, I think those involved with writing the screenplay did the best they could.

In any case, the story told is still wonderful. Liesel’s

journey is all about friendship, family, hope and the power that stories and the written word have in our lives. Her story, both as a book and film, is beautiful and touching.

Newcomer Sophie Nélisse plays Liesel, who we follow as she adjusts to life with foster parents Hans and Rosa, attempts to make sense of a seemingly pointless war and discovers a new passion while learning how to read and write.

With her captivating blue eyes Nélisse does an admirable job, but it is Academy Award winner Geoffery Rush, as her adopted father Hans, who steals the show. Rush is exceptional as Hans, a caring man who plays the accordion and treats Liesel like royalty. I sincerely hope that when award season rolls around, Rush’s spectacular performance is remembered.

Overall, “The Book Thief” was worth the trip, a gem among this season’s blockbusters and a film I’d recommend whether you’ve read the book or not. Either way, you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation of how much stories can affect our lives.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

The Cheezies, an all-male a cappella group out of the Miami University Men’s Glee Club, released their first Christmas single Wednesday.

The single, a cover of Josh Groban’s rendition of “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” was recorded in early November at a student home passed down through Glee Club members, the Club House.

“This is the 25th year of the Cheezies being on campus,” senior Ch ase Hodge, president of the group, said.

“We figured a Christmas single would be a good way to celebrate this milestone.”

The group invited back several alumni to work with them in preparation for the recording as well as to sing on the track itself. Sophomore Ryan Fry, who serves as music director for the group, sings the solo on the single.

“We had everyone in the group suggest a potential song to record and then voted out of the pool,” Fry said. “Once we had it picked we got the arrangement done and spent about a month and a half preparing it for recording.”

The single was arranged and recorded by A Cappella Psych, a production company specialized in a cappella music. Recording one person at a time while they heard their

part played on the computer through headphones, the process took two full days to complete.

“Recording the Cheezies was an enjoyable process,” Matt Caruso, the company’s founder and head of production, said. “It’s always great to record singers who have never recorded before. You can get some really great takes that they never knew were possible before recording.”

Caruso is no stranger to the a cappella scene at Miami, having recorded full length albums and singles with several groups on campus. He and his company have future plans to do more recording at Miami as well.

“It makes it really easy to not only record, but to make the most out of each take.”

The Cheezies are using this release as momentum into next semester.

Along with performing with the Glee Club on their annual winter tour, they’ve got plans for a 25th Anniversary concert in the works.

“We’re really focused on finding our own, unique sound,” Fry said.

“I can’t give away too many details about next semester but people can stay up to date on what we’re doing by liking our Facebook page.”

“I’ll Be Home For Christmas” performed by The Cheezies will be available on iTunes Wednesday. A release party for the single will take place 10 p.m. Wednesday at the Hatch.

JOSH ZAK THE MIAMI STUDENT

SPEAKING TO THE FUTURE LEADERS

Local politician David Pepper talks to a small group of students from the Campus Democrats on Nov. 21 in Harrison Hall.

Jam-packed movie release schedule keeps away the winter blahs

BY BRITTON PERELMAN FOR THE MIAMI STUDENT

After the stress of finals week is over and you’ve gone home for the holiday, make sure you take some time to go to the movies. With so many great movies coming to theaters in December, there’s something for everyone.

If you haven’t had time to catch a movie at the recently re-opened Princess Theatre Uptown, beat the crowds and see a movie that’s already been in theaters for a few weeks. Watch Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutcherson fight for their lives again in “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire,” which had the fourth biggest opening weekend of all time. If you’re in the mood

for something more serious, check out “12 Years a Slave,” which is bound to be an Oscar contender come February, or “The Book Thief,” based on the beloved bestseller. If you’re looking to revisit your childhood and see something more lighthearted, Disney’s “Frozen” is a great option.

The film, which boasts all new songs reminiscent of the Disney movies we watched as kids, is about a kingdom trapped in eternal winter and a girl who sets off on an epic journey to find her sister. December also brings a slew of new releases, from muchanticipated sequels to those by highly acclaimed directors.

Lord of the Rings fan? Well then “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” is a no-brainer. Opening on December 13th, the second in

the “Hobbit” trilogy continues the journey of Gandalf, Bilbo and the dwarves as they continue their quest to take back their homeland Erebor from the feared dragon Smaug.

If dwarves and dragons aren’t your cup of tea, but you love magic, check out “Saving Mr. Banks,” opening on Dec. 13th. This movie, which features an all-star cast that includes Tom Hanks and Emma Thompson, is based on the true story of the collaboration between Walt Disney and P.L. Travers, the stubborn author of Mary Poppins.

Maybe you’d rather see something sure to tickle your funny bone, or maybe you just love Will Ferrell. Head to the theater on Dec. 20 and check out “Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues,” which fea-

tures the return of Ron Burgundy, San Diego’s supposedly top-rated newsman, who, I’m sure, provides more hilarity than actual groundbreaking news.

If you loved director David O. Russell’s “Silver Linings Playbook” last year, don’t miss “American Hustle,” which hits theaters everywhere on Dec. 18. Boasting a star-studded cast that includes Christian Bale, Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper, and Amy Adams, “American Hustle” tells the story of a brilliant conman and his partner, forced into a world of mafia in New Jersey. Are you a fan of Leonardo DiCaprio, or do you love Martin Scorsese’s movies? Either way, “The Wolf of Wall Street” is a winner.

Opening on Christmas day, this

movie is based on the true story of the rise and eventual fall of stockbroker Jordan Belfort. If you’ve got some time on your hands, pick up the book before you see the movie.

Last, but not least, the movie I’m personally looking forward to most in December is “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” which opens Christmas day. Directed by and starring Ben Stiller, this film tells the tale of forever daydreamer Walter Mitty, who escapes his seemingly anonymous life to embark on an incredible and life-changing journey when his job is threatened.

Let your hometown theater be an escape from the cold this winter break so many movies to choose from, you’re bound to find something worth seeing.

www.miamistudent.net

TUESDAY DECEMBER 3, 2013

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OPINION

EDITORS EMILY ELDRIDGE NICOLE THEODORE

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013

EDITORIAL@MIAMISTUDENT.NET

EDITORIAL

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

Shopoholics hold nothing back to steal the deals on Black Friday The term “Black Friday” is said to have originated in the 1950s when factory line managers noticed many of their employees calling in sick after their holiday off. But it was not until the 1980s when store owners across the United States noticed their balance sheets coming out of the red and into the black.

It was this trend that deemed the Friday after Thanksgiving an unofficial holiday to retailers and shoppers across the country — or what we know today as “Black Friday”.

But what was once a booming day for businesses has turned into a feeding frenzy for shopaholics and thrifty bargain hunters alike. In just the past 10 years, we have seen stores opening their doors earlier and earlier. So early, in fact, that it really shouldn’t be called “Black Friday”— something more like “Black Thursday Evening” seems more fitting.

Stores like Kohl’s, WalMart and Toys “R” Us aren’t letting federal holidays get in the way. This year, countless retailers opened their doors late Thanksgiving Day — except those in Maine, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, of course, where this is illegal.

The Editorial Board of The Miami Student wonders what kind of effect this has on the employees of stores like WalMart and Kohl’s. We even wonder what kind of people would have the desire to pass up a turkey coma to shop ‘til they drop.

But what is more concerning to us is the violence seen in all parts of the country over the weekend.

Black Friday shoppers come armed with stun guns and pocketknives and apparently have every intention of using them.

Take Philadelphia’s Franklin Mills Mall incident for example.

Two women were caught on camera fighting over merchandise. In the video captured by a bystander, you can even hear and see a stun gun being used by one of the women. The video also shows a baby stroller within inches of the brawl and another fist fight in the background. This all happened at 2 a.m. Friday.

In Los Angeles, a fight broke out between three WalMart shoppers late Thursday outside the store.

Witnesses said the three individuals were arguing about cutting the line when police officers arrived to break up the fight. According to CBS, “A police officer who attempted to intervene suffered minor injuries.” Two people were arrested and police were posted outside the Rialto WalMart until the end of the day Friday.

And finally, in suburban Chicago, bullets were fired when a suspected shoplifter tried to flee a Kohl’s department store via a getaway car. A responding officer was struggling with the suspected shoplifter as he got into his get-away car when the vehicle slowly started driving with the police officer was still partially in the car. “The officer was dragged quite some distance.

He couldn’t get out,” said Romeoville Police Chief Mark Turvey.

Police shot at the driver of the getaway car until it stopped moving.

The driver and police officer were taken to a nearby hospital.

Watching Black Friday madness unfold is like watching a bad car accident. And while it may be hard for most of us to rationalize getting in a fist fight over a toaster oven, the Editorial Board can’t see next year’s Black Friday getting any better. We are worried this do-anything-to-get-a-good-deal mentality is seeping its way into American culture whether we like it or not.

The fact that these mega-stores are forcing their employees to work on a holiday that is specifically intended to be spent with family should be appalling to us all. Yet people are still waiting in line for hours on end to buy things they really don’t even need; isn’t Thanksgiving supposed to be a day where we express gratitude for the things we already have, not hoard more?

For this reason, we think about the kids who have to spend Thanksgiving without their parents or siblings because they were called in to work.

But then we also think about the fact that businesses are able to literally rack in billions of dollars in just a few hours. CEO of WalMart USA Bill Simon reported this year’s Black Friday was the best ever for the super-store, with approximately 10 million register transactions during a four-hour window on Thursday night and “sales remaining strong throughout Friday.” Last year, consumer spending on Black Friday totaled $59.1 billion, according to the National Retail Federation. 307 million consumers shopped in stores or online on Black Friday, averaging to about $423 spent by each individual shopper last year on Black Friday.

There is no doubt businesses have a lot to gain by opening at 5 p.m. or 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, but forcing workers and encouraging shoppers to leave their families on such a reverent holiday is an emerging trend our society should challenge.

Rule of Thumb 32 years of Britney The ‘Princess of Pop’ is another year older and has a new album out.

PATRICK GEYSER THE MIAMI STUDENT

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

‘Good Samaritan’ policy is in place to save lives Miami Students, Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jaclyn Wulf’s family and friends. Such a tragedy touches the hearts of the entire Miami University community, including us alumni. While we did not know her personally, we can say that because she was a part of our community, she was one of us.

It was, and is, for lives like Jaclyn’s that the two of us ran for Student Body President and Student Body Vice President, with the desire to implement a “Good Samaritan” alcohol policy; something we both deeply cared about. Over our term, we were able to successfully accomplish this policy, thanks to the work of

Associated Student Government, The Office of Student Affairs and President David Hodge. All of us wanted to help make sure that tragedies, such as this one, would not happen, and that our students always felt safe.

While we mourn the loss of this Miamian, it is important to make sure this does not happen in the future. The “Good Samaritan” policy is in place to encourage that. With this policy, you can call for help without facing any code violation penalty. We do not want anyone to feel like they are not able to use it. If you think a friend is showing signs of alcohol poisoning, do not hesitate to call right away, and ab-

solutely nothing will appear on your transcript. Nothing.

This policy is in place to save students’ lives. Its only requirement is that students use it, and we hope you do.

Love and honor,

JOHN STEFANSKI

JWSTEFANSKI@GMAIL.COM CLASS OF ‘13 STUDENT BODY PRESIDENT EMERITUS

LIZZIE LITZOW

CLASS OF ‘13 STUDENT BODY VICE PRESIDENT EMERITUS

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

MU ‘nickels and dimes’ students to make upgrades Recently, Miami’s campus-life has gone on to the soundtrack of the constant din of construction of new buildings and the renovation of old ones.

This construction is all part of Miami’s new 2020 Plan, designed to bring in a new generation of exceptional students at Miami into the 21st century.

However, as this plan is implemented, no one seems to ask the most obvious question: how are we to pay for it?

Granted, many of the funds come from major donors (Armstrong may ring a bell,) but still, much of the money comes directly from the student body itself. Keen-eyed viewers may have noticed an extra fee slipped

into their spring bill simply labeled “Armstrong Student Center Fee.” This fee amounts to a total of $110. Some may have asked, “What about Mr. Armstrong though, wasn’t he to foot the bill?” Apparently not, and ever-rising tuition costs (up to 3 percent per year, as allowed by law) seems to show perhaps another funnel that helps fund the 2020 Plan.

This sort of “nickel and diming” of the student body should be met with an uproar of outraged students. However, at Miami, the students are just without even the slightest hint of protest.

Whether the student body is in tacit approval of paying a bit

more or, is simply complacent, is difficult to tell. Many students may never have even glanced at their bill, simply trusting the university (and perhaps their parents) to handle the money issues. Burdening a group of students with an extra fee to pay for a building they may never use is quite simply, a bit ridiculous.

Even more ridiculous than that though, is paying that extra fee without saying a word.

Wake up Miami, or the world will start charging you for its Hodge Mahal as well.

STEPHEN HENDRICKSON HENDRISJ@MIAMIOH.EDU CLASS OF ‘04

Lights Uptown High Street looks so pretty this time of year!

RedHawk football It’s official, our football team didn’t win a single game this year.

Holiday countdown The happiest time of year also seems to be the most expensive.

KATIE TAYLOR EDITOR IN CHIEF EMILY CRANE NEWS EDITOR EMILY ELDRIDGE EDITORIAL EDITOR NICOLE THEODORE EDITORIAL EDITOR BILLY RAFAEL ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

CHRIS CURME COMMUNITY EDITOR JANE BLAZER COMMUNITY EDITOR VICTORIA SLATER CAMPUS EDITOR REIS THEBAULT CAMPUS EDITOR TOM DOWNEY SPORTS EDITOR

www.miamistudent.net

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2013 OP ED

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COMMENTARY

Former Editor in Chief applies Miami experiences to new life in Southeast Europe “To think that in such a place, I led such a life.”

You all know this quote. I groaned each time I saw it festooned across bed sheet banners draping tree-totree on Oxford’s front lawns every May. Don’t get me wrong – I love Oxford, and my four years there were as packed with magical memories as anyone else’s. Challenging coursework, weekends Uptown with friends and real-life work experience at The Miami Student and WMUB have all cemented themselves firmly into my memory, but the events I look back upon and marvel at with the breathless fervor of this quote are actually the opportunities Miami provided beyond the confines of the Mile Square.

Leading such a life in those places is what pushed me to where I am today: in Macedonia, wrapping up my third and final year as a Peace Corps Volunteer.

There are scores of opportunities at Miami that allow students of all economic backgrounds to learn about and engage in the world around them.

To spare you from long autobiographical rambling, I’ll just hit my highlights: service-learning in Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood; performing in Canada and China with the Men’s Glee Club; learning Italian and studying the culture in Urbino, Italy; filming a documentary and reporting on the economic crisis in Kosovo; and working in a shelter for abused women and orphans in Tijuana, Mexico.

These five extraordinary experiences outside Oxford define my college experience far better than Green Beer Day shenanigans or the

countless hours cramming at King Library. Even better, Miami scholarships put them all within reach. To think that such a place enabled me to lead such a life!

The lessons of patience and appreciating cultural exchange that I learned from these college experiences have echoed through my 39 months as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Macedonia (located on the Balkan Peninsula between Serbia and Greece).

The first three months, I lived in a tiny village called Lozovo, where rush hour consists of a small herd of cows and goats straggling in from the pastures about an hour before sunset with bells clanging.

The majority of my free time outside the 4-hour-long Macedonian language lessons was spent helping my host family with unending chores, hiking through sunflower fields and grapevines near town with my host brother or just spending quality time with my host family as they watched Turkish soap operas and shared meals. To think that in such a place, I led such a life.

The next two years I taught English at the high school in a small town called Negotino.

As the only American in town, living in a house with a widowed grandmother, my friends diverged into two groups: the grannies who stopped by my landlady’s house for their daily dose of coffee and neighborhood gossip, and the rock and roll aficionados who hung out with my Gene Simmons doppelganger colleague from school. Almost every family in Negotino owns a patch of the grapevines

CONTRIBUTED BY AUSTIN FAST

Austin making traditional rakija, a traditional alcoholic beverage in the Balkans made from fermented fruits, in Negotino, Macedonia. encircling the community, meaning ing the ancient cobblestone streets of Slant Walk.

One of my favorite professors collecting ripe grapes in the fall and the Old Turkish Quarter on Friday distilling them into homemade moon- and Saturday nights, I occasionally from Miami visited Skopje this sumshine became almost second nature. stop and marvel that in such a place, mer and dropped off a simple bit of advice: Apply. Apply for every To think that in such a place, I led I am leading such a life.

I know I am not alone. Miami scholarship, job, internship, fellowsuch a life.

Last September, I moved to Mace- alumni go on to do extraordinary ship or service trip that remotely interests you. donia’s capital city – Skopje – and work around the world.

I can think of friends from MiIt cannot hurt to apply and you lose began volunteering at a non-profit organization that connects youth to ami who now fight malaria in Af- nothing but the time needed to write free education through scholarships rica, research Arab issues in Jordan, a resume or cover letter. You might teach high school drop-outs in Baton even surprise yourself by the time and trainings.

My NGO has sent me to youth Rouge, La., manage accounts at Face- you graduate – instead of mourning conferences in Dublin, Brussels, Ath- book’s headquarters and work in the the end of something good, you’ll be heading toward something even betens and Zagreb, where I met young New York City mayor’s office.

The common thread that binds ter as you wave farewell to Oxford people from dozens of countries and brushed up on my journalism skills all these people together is that they that final time. by writing for professional media. As seized the off-campus opportunities I ride the double-decker buses past to learn and grow that Miami offers AUSTIN FAST Skopje’s many new gilded statues, or each student who passes under the CLASS OF ‘10 weave among young people throng- arch of Upham Hall or strolls down FASTAR@MIAMIOH.EDU

COMMENTARY

Russia on a roll? Not so fast, corruption continues Agreements (after meetings with Putin) with the EU that promised economic growth, but demanded economic, political, and judicial reform, are merely short-term victories for Moscow. In response, massive protests, verging on revolution,

And only through a combination of bribery and extortion did the Kremlin get its desired result, although it failed to stop Georgia and Moldova from signing their own Association Agreements. pact with the EU; Russian President Vladimir Putin appears to be on a roll, all against the backdrop of the upcoming Sochi Olympics. In recognition of his recent successes, last month, Forbes named Putin the most powerful man in the world.

But we shouldn’t be that naïve.

Au contraire, we may be witnessing the death throes of the Putin regime.

In fact, some of Moscow’s foreign policy “successes” have come by default as a result of good timing and Western weakness. Take Syria, where the war-weary U.S. were reluctant to get involved in another Middle Eastern conflict, especially after the UK backed down. Moscow capitalized on this after Assad’s regime, which it has supported and armed from day one, murdered over 1,000 Syrians in one chemical weapons attack. The Russians lied to the international community about their knowledge of the attack, giving Assad cover at the UN. What’s more, the deal that Moscow brokered did nothing to stop the suffering there.

Regarding Snowden, the Kremlin benefitted when he got stuck in Moscow’s Sheremetevo airport.

Russia’s refusal to humiliatingly bow to the U.S. and not extradite him was nothing extraordinary.

But, when spy-gate hit, Putin was sitting pretty. And Moscow’s offer to fill the arms-supply vacuum left after the U.S. decided to cut off arms shipments to the Egyptian army was just that. Plus, weapons exports are one of the most important and corrupt sectors of the Russian economy.

The recent decisions of Armenia and Ukraine to pass on Association

broke out across Ukraine, reflecting the desire of a plurality of Ukrainians to join Europe. Only lowly Armenia agreed to accede to Moscow’s floundering Customs Union, a project ostensibly aimed at the economic reintegration of the former USSR, but in reality, a poorlydisguised Russian attempt to control its neighbors. And only through a combination of bribery and extortion did the Kremlin get its desired result, although it failed to stop Georgia and Moldova from signing their own Association Agreements.

Russia threatened trade embargos, higher tariffs, energy price hikes and supply disruptions, expulsion of labor migrants, and most heinously, in the case of Armenia, to arm its rival, neighbor Azerbaijan.

Outside of this, Moscow is increasingly an international pariah because of its antidemocratic and illiberal rhetoric and policies. The Kremlin’s closest, ‘voluntary’ friends are a who’s-who of corrupt, crackpot authoritarian leaders.

At home, the Putin regime’s domestic standing is getting weaker by the day. Extreme intolerance and hatred of the millions of labor migrants, who hail principally from Russia’s internal and external south, are widespread. Meanwhile, the racist police and security services that run and profit from illegal immigration allow racial violence to go on.

And because the Kremlin tries to remain in the middle, it is despised by all. In addition, there are alarming levels of xenophobic and homophobic sentiments in the country, egged on by state propaganda.

Liberals and all those who espouse “non-traditional” lifestyles have no

place in Russian society, according to the Kremlin.

As for the Russian economy, it is in steady decline. Putin has allowed his friends and siloviki, or people of the state security services, to take over and impose their statist economic beliefs. This has encouraged stealing and corruption, already costing the economy an estimated $300 billion a year, trampling the rule of law and stifling needed innovation and investment. It was thus not surprising to hear Russia’s economic minister announce that the economy would grow by only 2.5 percent annually until 2030. Adding insult to injury, demand for and easily extractable supplies of Russian energy are falling, paralleling improvements in energy efficiency and the so-called shale gas revolution Consequently, the Kremlin will have less money to grease the political system and pay for the meager social programs it provides; the previous, unspoken social contract of economic growth in exchange for the masses’ political apathy is all but over. That also means less money to bribe foreign officials and subsidize allies.

It is also important to note that Russia’s demographics are a ticking time bomb that are predicted to shrink the population from 143 million to 107 million by 2050, weakening Russian territorial security, destabilizing society and shrinking the economy.

And that brings us to Sochi, which has seen massive cost overruns and long construction delays.

The Russian elite have turned the Olympics into their personal cash cow, at the expense of private property rights and the local environment. Allegations abound regarding the use of illegal, practically slave labor for construction.

Foreign affairs is often an area leaders in uncomfortable domestic positions attempt to exploit to regain their edge; Putin is no different.

However, his Potemkin victories will neither continue nor last forever, and most likely not for long at all. Putin’s Russia is on a roll – right off the cliff.

KEARY IARUSSI

HAVIGHURST CENTER JUNIOR FELLOW

JUNIOR, DIPLOMACY & GLOBAL POL.

IARUSSKP@MIAMIOH.EDU

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Taking in Edward Snowden, brokering a deal on Syria’s chemical weapons, offering to sell weapons to Egypt after the U.S. refused to, and most recently, persuading former Soviet republics Armenia and Ukraine not to sign an integration

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HODGE, FROM PAGE 2

times as much as the average pay and benefits of a full professor at the same institution.”

Miami’s numbers adhere quite closely to this, based on Wright State University’s 2012-13 Ohio Universities Faculty Salary Survey. According to the survey, the average salary for a Miami professor is $105,119, making Hodge’s base pay around 3.9 times that number.

Compared to others in his field, President Hodge’s salary begins to seem almost modest, but how does his salary as the president of Miami University compare to that of Barack

DATE,

FROM PAGE 2

no different.

“There will also be live entertainment from some local bands,” Paul said.

Before things kick off at The Wood’s, there will be a pre-game at La Piñata in Oxford from 6 p.m.

Obama’s as President of the United States?

As a result of a change that took effect in 2000, which doubled the salary of the president of the United States, he has been making $400,000 annually, plus a $50,000 tax-exempt expense account. Technically, this means that President Hodge earned more last year (~$481,000) than President Obama did ($450,000).

Remington said that while she sees similarities in their salaries, it is difficult to draw parallels between the two.

“Honestly, I don’t know if those positions are comparable,” she said.

“There is so much that is put into being the U.S. president, with so many departments to oversee and responsi-

bilities to deal with. I would expect that he would get [paid] significantly more than what he does.”

However, Remington said she is not suggesting that university presidents are by any means overpaid.

“As for the presidents of colleges and universities, I think that price sounds normal,” she said. “It’s a hard job. It’s like being the CEO of a company, really. The school itself is a business and he is the president of that business.”

The heads of businesses are paid based on the success of their respective companies, and if Miami is, as Remington suggests, a business, then it only seems appropriate that our “CEO” be paid well.

to 9:30 p.m. Some of the profits La Piñata makes will also be donated to the Karen Wellington Foundation.

“La Piñata is also extending their happy hour another hour for us,” Paul said.

The event, Antony said, is a fun and unique way to raise money.

“A lot of the event is friends coming out to support their friends

being auctioned off,” Antony said.

“It’s just the idea of the date auction that’s fun.”

However, those auctioned off are not required to go on a date.

“They are not bound to go on a date,” Moran said. “They can meet each other at our event and set something up on their own if they would like.”

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SPORTS

EDITOR TOM DOWNEY

TUESDAY DECEMBER 3, 2013

SPORTS@MIAMISTUDENT.NET

TOM DOWNEY

HOCKEY

POTENTIAL REDHAWKS FOOTBALL COACHES

Brotherhood snaps skid

WHAT’S GOING DOWNEY

The football season is finally over for Miami University, meaning everyone’s attention shifts to the coaching search. Based off previous comments from David Sayler; I think the hiring will come shortly, and will likely be an FCS coach. However, that is by no means a sure thing. There have been plenty of names thrown around, with varying degrees of likelihood. Here are 10 of the more interesting names. These are names that others have thrown out, not ones that I have personally heard.

Of course, these are nothing more than rumors, so take them with a large grain of salt.

D.J. Durkin, DC, Florida Durkin is currently the defensive coordinator at Florida, and has some MAC connections. He played at Bowling Green State University and coached there for two years.

Sayler’s time at BGSU overlapped with Durkin’s for a year. Durkin would fit into Sayler’s pattern of hiring up and comers, but I think this is a longhsot. Durkin lacks head coaching experience, and he might have a shot at replacing Dave Clawson at Bowling Green, if Clawson leaves for a better gig.

Aaron Kromer, OC, Chicago Bears A Miami alum, Kromer has been in the NFL since 2001. He does have head coaching experience, serving as the interim for the interim head coach for the New Orleans Saints when Joe Vitt and Sean Payton were suspended. However, he has been out of college football for over 10 years and his salary with the Bears is more than what Miami can pay.

Jim Tressel, former HC, Ohio State Consider this a pipe dream for Miami fans. It does make some sense, Tressel did coach at Miami, but he seems to enjoy his current role at Akron. He also still has a five-year ‘show-cause’ penalty from his violations at OSU, which would cause him to miss the first five games and any potential bowl game. As sexy as the hire would be, I’d be shocked if it happens.

Kerry Coombs, CB coach and special team coordinator, Ohio State Coombs has gotten attention as a potential hire from certain Cincinnati media personalities (looking at you Lance McAlister). The former Colerain high school head coach makes sense because he is a local guy and his son played at Miami.

But he lacks college head coaching experience and I don’t see Coombs as the type of coach Sayler is

looking for.

Lane Kiffin, former HC, USC Just kidding. This is never going to happen.

Chuck Martin, OC, ND Martin was an incredibly successful coach at Grand Valley State, where he replaced Brian Kelly. Martin would appear to be a good fit, and has a nice pedigree.

He might be looking for a better job though. If Sayler doesn’t hire an FCS coach, my money is on Martin.

Eric Wolford, HC, Youngstown State Wolford is the first of several guys that many likely haven’t heard of. He’s had some success at Youngstown State, and has improved the Penguins’ record each year. He has a nice staff at Youngstown State, led by tight ends coach Mark Mangino and offensive coordinator Shane Montgomery (Yes, that Shane Montgomery).

That would be a nice contrast to the John Klacik-led staff that Don Treadwell put together, but I think Wolford is a long-shot.

Beau Baldwin, HC, Eastern Washington This rumor exists mostly on internet forums, but it makes a lot of sense. He’s young and has had a tremendous amount of success at Eastern Washington. However, he’s never coached in the Midwest, so that transition could be a problem. Baldwin could make for a risky hire, but it could be a very profitable one as well.

Bob Stitt, HC, Colorado School of Mines Stitt is a crazy dark horse, but bear with me here. Few know of Stitt, but he is a young coach with a brilliant offensive mind. He has done wonders with a school that is known for its demanding academics. I highly doubt Stitt gets the job, but I couldn’t resist putting him in here.

BY JOE GIERINGER SENIOR STAFF WRITER

Following a three-game skid that marked its longest losing streak since October of 2011, the Miami University hockey team got back on track with a tie and a win at Bemidji State University.

No. 12 Miami improved to 8-6-2.

Junior forward and captain Austin Czarnik had quite the showing Saturday, though the RedHawks showed up with a strong early effort Friday.

After building a 4-1 lead halfway through the contest on two-goal efforts by sophomore and junior forwards Alex Gacek and Blake Coleman, the Bemidji State Beavers battled back in the third period to tie the game with just seconds to spare. Though the RedHawks had a man advantage in the extra frame, the teams skated to a 4-4 tie.

“I thought Friday we played well early, but we let the momentum get away from us,” head coach Enrico Blasi said. “The second night, it

was more back and forth, and in the third period we made the most of our opportunities.”

Czarnik made a difference in the final game of the roadstand, showing why he was nominated as a Hobey Baker finalist last season. The undersized forward displayed both finesse and physicality en route to a five-assist evening, a career best outing for Czarnik that pushed him over the century mark in points as a RedHawk, becoming the 48th player wearing the red and white to achieve such a feat.

“I didn’t have my best game Friday,” Czarnik said of his pointless outing. “I knew what I had to do, and I was just feeling good.

The team played really well and it worked out for the best.”

For his efforts, Czarnik was named National Collegiate Hockey Conference Offensive Player of the Week, and is now tied for third in the country with 24 points.

His 17 helpers are second-most in the NCAA.

Other Miami players had notable games as well. Coleman notched three goals and an assist, while sophomore forward Riley Barber grabbed a goal and four assists for the ‘Hawks, his three-assist Saturday being a career high. Junior forward Alex Wideman, sophomore forward Sean Kuraly, Gacek and Max Cook all recorded multi-point weekends as well, and freshman forward Devin Loe found the back of the net twice Saturday in just his third time seeing the ice all season.

“We made strides after not winning Friday night,” Czarnik said.

“That was hard on us, but we came out and made a statement and I’m really proud of the guys. We played a team game and worked within our system. Hopefully we’ll keep moving forward this week.”

The RedHawks return to action Friday, Dec. 6 when they host NCHC foe the University of Denver, who sits just four spots out of the USCHO Top 20 with a 7-5-2 record on the year.

Rob Ash, HC, Montana State Of all the rumors, Ash might make the most sense to me. While Ash is no spring chicken (he’s 62), he has proven himself at both Montana State and Drake University.

He also won the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award for an FCS coach in 2011.

Don’t be surprised if the coach isn’t one of the names listed above, and I end up looking like a fool, as usual.

Sayler faces a hire that might be the most important one in Miami’s history. And he has to get it right.

WEEKEND RESULTS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Florida State........71 Miami University........62

UPCOMING GAMES MEN’S BASKETBALL IPFW 7 p.m. Tuesday Millett Hall

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Youngstown State 5:15 p.m. Wednesday Youngstown, Ohio

LAUREN OLSON PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR

Miami freshman defensman Trevor Hamilton makes a pass during Miami’s 3-2 loss to Wisconsin Nov. 16.

CONTRIBUTED BY JUSTIN WOODS

HOLD YOUR FINISH

(L-R) Justin Woods, Tim Mottola, Thomas Byrne, Kevin Carlson, Justin Harrington, Connor McCafferty, Wyatt Frazier and Matt Sorrows finished in seventh place at Club Golf Nationals in Myrtle Beach S.C.

FOOTBALL

Miami finishes season without a win JOE GIERINGER

SENIOR STAFF WRITER

If losing one game leaves a bad taste in your mouth, try to imagine that unsavory taste for 12 straight weeks.

That nightmarish scenario became reality for the Miami University football team this year. After falling in the final game of the season to the Ball State Cardinals 55-14, Miami locked in an 0-12 record, the worst in program history.

The Cardinals (10-2 7-1 MAC) are arguably among the nation’s best passing offenses. Led by senior quarterback Keith Wenning, Ball State cruised to an offensive-fueled win to end their regular season. Wenning completed 82 percent of his passes for 445 yards and six touchdowns, which puts him just 77 yards shy of a 4,000 yard season. He’s also the Mid-American Conference’s passing leader. Junior wide receiver Willie Snead was also hot Friday, hauling in 11 catches for 133 yards and a touchdown.

The RedHawks remain undaunted, however. In the face of adversity, senior captains Wes Williams and Steve Marck look at the positive strides that their teammates made throughout the season.

“No one ever quit fighting,” Williams said. “There’s still a lot of fight left in this team. I feel like if they bring in the right coach, the right guys, we can get things rolling. Maybe not right away, but they’ll get Miami back to how it was in the past.”

Both Williams and Marck are appreciative of the present coaching staff and players’ efforts, despite the winless season. Both captains hoped to make a go at playing football at the professional level, though Williams’ plans changed following a torn ACL after Miami’s last home game against the University at Buffalo. Both agreed that regardless of where their futures take them, the university gave them the best possible chance to succeed at whatever they try their hands at, be it football or otherwise.

“For a lot of the guys, football is

over, and now that’s the part where being a student athlete, coming here for free and getting a degree, starts to pay dividends,” Marck said. “You work your butt off for four or five years while you’re here and you leave with a degree from a great university that can set you up in so many different places in life.”

Many of the coaches, too, will most likely be looking for a new purpose at the start of the next season.

No official word has been given on the status of the Miami athletic department’s coaching search, but after an 0-12 season it’s likely that coaching changes will be made by athletic director David Sayler.

“Those coaches? It’s tough, they’re all looking for jobs now,” Marck said. “I’m not sure if the new coach will keep anybody around, but I hope a few of those guys get the chance to stay around. We’re appreciative of everything they did. As interim head coach, Mike Bath did everything. I respect him for that, and I know he has a bright future along with some of these other coaches.”