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Men’s Baseball
UC baseball team looks forward to their new season
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4 Paws for Ability
Student lives enriched by furry friends
THE NEWS RECORD / UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI THURSDAY, FEB. 2, 2017
NEWSRECORD.ORG
Travel ban affects UC students ‘My grandpa’s body has to go back home alone’
EMILY STOLTZ | CHIEF REPORTER
Kasra Karamlou, a third-year neurobiology student and current president of the UC Arabic Club, saw the fallout from President Donald Trump’s controversial immigration order first hand. “Over the weekend, my grandpa died,” said Karamlou. “My uncle wanted to take his body back to Iran because that was his wish. But because of the ban, none of my family would be let back in the country if they left, so my grandpa’s body has to go back home alone.” Karamlou’s family is just one of many across the country affected by the ban. Right here on campus there are 75 students and 20 faculty members from the seven countries listed in the executive order. Signed on Jan. 27, it bars citizens
of Iran, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen from entering the United States for at least the next 90 days. According to Karamlou, his parents traveled to and from Iran fairly often because of their dual citizenship status. However, since the executive order was implemented, they are fearful they will not be allowed reentry. UC’s International Services Director Ronald Cushing says no students are currently stranded abroad. However, many students do have family members and dependents affected by the order. Cushing cited a student whose spouse is currently held up in Iraq, and a researcher whose parents were stopped in Vienna. The Customs and Border Protection Agency reported 721 people who were denied entrance into the United
SHEPARD FAIREY
“Greater Than Fear” by artist Shepard Fairey.
States after the ban took place, according to The New York Times. The Times reported Secretary of Homeland Security John F. Kelly defended the order, saying it was not a ban, but rather a “temporary pause” so that the department can review the current vetting system, primarily the vetting of refugees, in order to protect the country from terrorists. Although Sean Spicer, the White House press secretary, defended the order, saying that the term “ban” is not appropriate. President Trump tweeted that “Everyone is arguing whether or not it is a ban. Call it what you want, it is about keeping bad people (with bad intentions) out of country!” Regardless of semantics, many students at UC remain concerned about the implications of the order. In a statement to the university’s international community, Cushing, along with Vice Provost for International Affairs Raj Metah, said they will “do everything possible” to support international students and ensure safety as well as academic success. There is still uncertainty about which countries may be affected in the future, said Cushing. The Department of State and the Department of Homeland Security will conduct a 90-day evaluation of current vetting processes. After the evaluation period, some countries may be added to the list, and those already included may become permanently banned, according to Cushing. Interim President Beverly Davenport, along with Interim Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Peter Landgren, issued a statement to the UC community. The statement expressed to students, staff and faculty that the White House executive order caused “great alarm,” and discouraged any students or faculty members from traveling to the seven countries named in the order until they have a better understanding of its implications. The statement assured students that UC is dedicated to maintaining global diversity, saying that the order “runs counter to our university’s core values.” Addressing the international community directly, Davenport and Landgren maintained that the presence and participation of international students, faculty and staff are highly valued and welcomed at the university.
Mexican tariff ‘very harmful’ to Cincy JUSTIN REUTTER | NEWS EDITOR
Last week, President Donald Trump unveiled his plan to “make the Mexicans pay for the border wall.” Trump’s solution is to place a 20 percent tariff on imports from Mexico. While press secretary Sean Spicer has stated that it is not a formal proposal, Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto tweeted again that Mexico would not be paying for a wall. Additionally, Pena Nieto canceled his plans to meet with Trump, indicating souring relationships. In 2014, there were an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants living in the US, according to data from the Pew Research Center. But building a wall may not significantly reduce illegal immigration, as most undocumented immigrants come into the country on work visas and simply overstay their visas, according to Pew data. Igor Kovac, a graduate assistant in political science, believes that a wall could be an effective deterrent to illegal immigration, but will not be the sole determining factor. “It is more about the
determination and resolve of the current regime,” said Kovac. Nonetheless, this plan would not be conducive to a healthy regional economy, according to Director of the UC Economics Center Julia Heath. “A 20 percent tariff on Mexican goods would be extremely harmful to the local economy,” said Heath. “The Cincinnati region is the state’s largest export area--$24.1 billion, almost half of the entire state’s exports. Trade makes up 14 percent of the local economy, and Mexico is the region’s second largest recipient of our exports. One of the problems with tariffs is that prices will increase for everyone.” The other problem is in export industries, according to Heath. “Contrary to what most people think, import industries and export industries are not separate things. A substantial share of the parts used in the goods that we export are themselves imported, so restricting imports (including making them more expensive) will have profound effects on our ability to export our goods. This would have profound
effects on our region’s employment,” said Heath. The Peterson Institute estimates that increased tariffs would reduce employment in the Rust Belt by 4 percent. The U.S.’s average tariff on goods from World Trade Organization countries is currently 3.5 percent. “An increase to 20 percent would have a staggering impact locally and nationally,” said Heath. David Brasington, a professor of political economy at UC, says that while there would be gains for American workers, the increased cost of imports from Mexico would hurt American consumers more than it would benefit American workers. “I gather the new answer is not so clear-cut,” said Brasington. “NAFTA was enacted when a dollar bought four pesos. Now it buys 20. No one expected that large a swing, which, as Ross Perot famously predicted, meant a lot of US jobs going to Mexico.” Brasington noted that US exporting firms also have to pay for stricter environmental controls and healthcare for workers, driving up prices for US exports for foreigners, compared to imports from
foreign countries with less stringent controls and nationalized health care. Some would say that since Mexico enacts a value added tax on US imports, enacting a tariff on Mexican goods would just be leveling the playing field, said Brasington. “The Trump administration seems to think that Americans are willing to pay a little more for goods if it means more jobs in America,” said Brasington. “In the end it’s a political question. This is a big change from the globalization mantra of the
CAROLINA A. MIRANDA | LOS ANGELES TIMES | TNS
Sol, age 7, plays on the border wall, which stretches for miles into the western horizon.
SHAE COMBS | PHOTO EDITOR
UC Football head coach Luke Fickell speaks to media on signing day, February 1, 2017.
Fickell oversees first signing day DAVID WYSONG | SPORTS EDITOR
Newly hired Cincinnati Bearcat head football coach Luke Fickell finished his first National Signing Day at UC yesterday, and he immediately succeeded. Despite Fickell just being hired on Dec. 10, Cincinnati’s recruiting class was ranked No. 1 in the American Athletic Conference, according to Rivals.com and Scout.com. “We were able to sign a great mix of young men from some of the top programs in the state,” Fickell said. “We had to get out there and do some work hanging on to the guys we had, and finding new ones. If you don’t have the types of guys other people are coming after, you’re probably not on the right ones. Players from great programs and winning programs bring the culture and attitude we’re looking for, which will make our team and program better.” Cincinnati brought in four Cincinnati-area recruits: defensive back Jarell White from LaSalle High School, linebacker Kyle Bolden from Colerain High School, offensive lineman Cody Lamb from Miamisburg High School and kicker Cole Smith from Middletown High School. “There’s an incredible amount of outstanding football players in the state of Ohio,” Fickell said. “First and foremost, we are going to look at the players in Ohio and see how they fit our needs. Sometimes it’s not all about measurables. It’s about what’s inside that chest. Stars don’t always make a great ballplayer.” Fickell said that White was a catalyst for this recruiting class, as he is a four-star recruit from the three-time defending Division II Ohio High School State Champion La Salle Lancers. “To have Jarell and his
ability to be a name, to be a guy that is very social, to be a guy that’s out there and says, ‘Hey, I believe in this. I believe in my city, I believe in my community and I believe in my university and coaches,’ it meant a lot,” Fickell said. There are two other big names making their way to Cincinnati in the upcoming season: Torrance Gibson and RJ Potts. Gibson is a transfer from Ohio State University. Coming out of high school in 2015, Gibson was a four-star quarterback recruit, ranking as the No. 12 player at any position in the state of Florida by 247Sports.com. Gibson converted to the wide receiver position at Ohio State because of his athletic ability, but he will go back to playing quarterback at UC. “Torrance is a great story,” Fickell said. “Torrance is a kid that was on top of the world. He was one of those guys that was incredibly highly recruited. This a new opportunity for him to come in and have that chance to play the quarterback position that he loves and has always dreamed of playing.” Potts is a four-star safety from Indianapolis and was ranked as the No. 4 recruit in the state of Indiana this year by 247Sports. “We needed him, more so just for the publicity,” Fickell said. “I know it looks better, and he’s maybe the highest rated guy, and we have high expectations for him. But I think it’s another one of those things that all these guys follow him.” There is one message Fickell and the other coaches give to their recruits that they think is important. “We’ve told them, we’re going to win,” Fickell said. “We’re not coming here not to be successful, and guys want to see other people believe that.”
FREE
2 / NEWS THURSDAY, FEB. 2, 2017
CubeCats satellite club TIM GOLDENBERG | STAFF REPORTER
JEAN PLEITEZ | CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Old Chem Building, Wednesday, February 1, 2017.
Much of what the world relies on – whether that be telecommunications, weather monitoring or tracking potential missile strikes – depends on a plethora of satellites orbiting the planet. With technology continuing to progress, increasing numbers of satellites are sent to orbit every year on a variety of matters, by a variety of parties. CubeCats, a student organization at UC, is one of those parties. The organization’s purpose is to develop, construct and eventually launch one of their satellites into space. Founded in the 2015 fall semester, the team is still in early development stages of their satellite, known as a CubeSat. A CubeSat is smaller than one generally imagines when they think of a satellite, with each of its cubes measuring roughly ten centimeters each way, and generally being used for various space research missions. Developed in the late 1990s, CubeSats were built with the goal of allowing students to be able to launch research satellites, but have since become a standard of the industry. Second-year computer science student Ellana Sell, CubeCats’ marketing
chairperson, gave insight on both the challenges the CubeCats have faced, as well as their goals moving forward. A challenge from the start was building up knowledge about space systems engineering. “An initial problem was educating new CubeCats members, which we combatted by creating an educational program known as CATiSE,” Sell said. CATiSE, or the CubeCats Applied Training in Space Exploration Program, was created to develop one’s skills necessary for designing, integrating and preparing a CubeSat launch. In addition to this, time commitment came into play. “Engineering students co-op, so members are sometimes out of town for a semester at a time. Dedicated members can still work on things remotely, though, and will video call into meetings,” said Sell. CubeCats’ current sponsors, outside of university funding, include the Ohio Space Grant Consortium, as well as the Cincinnati Observatory. In addition, the club intends to submit a proposal to the NASA SmallSat Technology Partnership Program, which helps
promote the small spacecraft programs of universities. The primary mission of the CubeCats is to successfully launch a CubeSat into low-Earth orbit, with the purpose of taking high-resolution images of coral along the Great Barrier Reef for multiple years. These would then be used to track coral bleaching progression, which can be compared to data from other cases of coral bleaching caused by ocean temperature and carbon dioxide concentrations. In addition, the CubeCats are constructing a ground station on the top of the Old Chemistry building on Main Campus to collect scientific data from the satellite once it is launched and operational. Due to the cost and complexity of the project, the organization’s mission is more longterm. However, CubeCats hope to ultimately see a successful mission launch before 2020, with data transmission coming in for the next three to four years after that. “We’re really excited for the future with this project, and [we] look forward to continuing to progress further and further with it,” said Sell.
Lecture series discusses Trump, gender, environment WILLIAM HOUSTON | CONTRIBUTOR
The University of Cincinnati discussed the Trump presidency’s effect on economics, gender and the environment Tuesday. Ken Petren, dean of the McMicken College of Arts & Sciences, opened the discussion by saying that this is a time to be very careful. “I don’t know if there have been many times in this country’s history when there has been greater uncertainty,” said Petren. The discussion covered three topics: economy, environment and gender relations. “It’s about evidence. It’s about understanding the human condition in a way that is somewhat structured,” said Petren. Members of the panel agreed that quite the opposite seems to be happening since the 45th President was sworn into office. Debashis Pal, department
head of economics, addressed the economic impact Trump’s administration policies may have on our country. “The US average income has increased within the past eight years while former President Barack Obama was in office,” said Pal. Today, the median income steadily decreases, according to Pal. Trump has acknowledged this as a problem and has discussed a few policies to address the problem, including restricting international trade and putting restrictions on student and work visas issued by the United States. Pal, like many others, wonders if these policies will work. Our country’s economy is dependent on trade, according to Pal, and Trump is setting out to slowly eradicate international trade because he believes keeping production within the country will increase the wealth per capita
and bring jobs back to the United States. UNESCO Water Chair Director Adrian Parr discussed how Trump’s administration policies would affect our country’s environment. There are 166 million Americans that are at risk for developing health effects from unhealthy levels of chemicals in the air, according to the 2016 State of the Year report released by the American Lung Association. Additionally, around 52 percent of the population lives in counties that have unhealthy levels of either ozone or particle pollution. Parr mentioned that Flint, Michigan, still does not have clean drinking water. However, Trump signed an order last week clearing the way for a wall that will cost between $15 and $25 billion. Department Head of Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies
Amy Lind closed with a discussion on gender. Lind said she did not understand how more than half of white women in our country were able to back such an “unfiltered” man. “The tide has been turned for women in our country once Trump reintroduced the Global Gag rule,” said Lind. Within hours of Trump taking office, portions of the White House website, including a section for LGBTQ issues, were gone, she said. Lind’s talk reiterated Trump’s remarks toward women over the years, but mostly focused on planning for uncertainty with the “new” version of the Global Gag Rule, which cuts US aid to family planning programs. Some women will also be unable to receive US aid dollars for other services, like maternal health care and HIV care, according to Lind.
Founded 1880 University of Cincinnati 45221-0135 Newsroom 509 Swift Hall 513-556-5912 chief.newsrecord@gmail. com Advertising 510 Swift Hall 513-556-5902 newsrecordbiz@ gmail.com The News Record is the editorially independent student-run news organization of the University of Cincinnati. It serves UC students, staff, faculty, alumni and the Cincinnati community with award-winning news and information on a variety of media platforms. The free newspaper is published on Mondays and Thursdays and is distributed to more than 80 locations on and near UC campuses. TNR’s website, www.newsrecord. org, is updated as news breaks and offers video, audio and interactive features. TNR’s app and podcasts are available for download on mobile devices. FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook TheNewsRecord Twitter @NewsRecord_UC Instagram TheNewsRecord SoundCloud The-News-Record-1 STAFF Editor-In-Chief Jeff O’Rear Managing Editor Lauren Moretto
JEAN PLEITEZ | CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Fossil Free UC hold their first meeting of the semester, Monday, January 30, 2017 at Braunstein room 426.
Fossil Free UC calls upon student voices for support RYAN CLADY | CONTRIBUTOR
Student organization Fossil Free UC has continued to call upon the University of Cincinnati to immediately freeze any new investments in the top 200 publicly traded fossil fuel companies and commit to divesting endowment funds from those companies within the next five years. Divestment is the opposite of an investment; it means getting rid of stocks, bonds or investment funds that are unethical or harmful. When you invest your money, you might buy stocks, bonds or other investments that generate income. Universities, religious organizations and other institutions put
money in these same kinds of investments to generate income to help them operate. Fossil Free UC and many organizations around the country are calling on institutions to divest from these companies. In this case, Fossil Free UC is trying to get the university to divest in companies using fossil fuels. There isn’t much Fossil Free UC can do right now. Currently, they are waiting for a meeting with a subgroup of the Board of Trustees, which will take place on Feb. 17. One of the club’s objectives is to socially bankrupt companies that use fossil fuels. In addition to getting UC to divest, the group also plans to get
other clubs and colleges to follow suit. UC is not the first school to implement the idea of divestment. Schools like the University of Massachusetts and Oregon State University have completely divested from companies that use fossil fuels. The environmental implications of burning fossils fuels are a cornerstone of the group’s argument against them. Burning fossil fuels can have a negative effect on the environment because they give off carbon dioxide and other gases that trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, which contributes to global climate change. Burning fossil fuels can also pollute
the air, leading to negative health effects for living organisms. The expense of fossil fuels is also an argument for divestment. Middle-eastern countries including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have huge oil reserves and easy access to natural gases making many other countries dependent on them for constant supply of these fuels. Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is a group of 13 countries that are responsible for 40 percent of the world’s oil production and hold the majority of the world’s oil reserves. OPEC is constantly monitoring the
volume of oil consumed and then they adjust their own production to maintain its desired barrel price. This results in worldwide price fluctuations. Seeing the negative effects of fossil fuels may leave you wondering how you can get involved. It starts with simply cutting the amount of energy you use, reducing your usage of plastics and recycling aluminum, glass, plastic and paper. Another way you can help or have your voice heard is to attend Fossil Free UC meetings. Fossil Free UC meets every Monday at 6 p.m. in Braunstein Hall.
News Editors Justin Reutter Parker Malatesta Chief Reporter Emily Stoltz Life & Arts Editor Isabella Jansen Opinion Editor Karly Williams Sports Editor David Wysong Copy Editor Cheyenne Krieger Photo Editor Shae Combs Chief Photographer Jean Pleitez Online Editor Stephanie Smith Designer Gabrielle Stichweh Broadcast Reporter Emily Wilhelm Videographer Michelle Fisk
LIFE & ARTS / 3 THURSDAY, FEB. 2, 2017
Roll On In introduced to Clifton area NOELLE ZIELINSKI | CONTRIBUTOR
PROVIDED
Women’s
employment
workshop ISABELLA JANSEN | LIFE AND ARTS EDITOR
The fear of unemployment following graduation is a common stressor among college students who are preparing to set out in the real world. This stress often pressures students into settling for the first job offer that comes their way. The University of Cincinnati and American Association of University Women (AAUW) provide a series of workshops for women-identified students to gain valuable tools when looking for and accepting jobs. The Women Conquer the World two-part series $tart $mart wrapped up its final day Wednesday. This series set out to provide women with the information to understand that the wage gap does, in fact, exist and how to work toward closing the leadership gap. Rosalyn Collins, assistant director of the UC Women’s Center, speaks on the idea that many times in the business world, it is men who hold top positions such as CEO. “We want women to be confident in their voice and be comfortable in selling themselves to an employer,” said Collins. The first workshop in this series focused on crafting an effective resume. In doing so, it pointed out what employers look for in a potential employee, appropriate verb choice and how to create a clear and suitable summary statement. The second day of $tart $mart delved into what to do when you receive an offer form a company, and what you should think about before accepting the position. When accepting a job offer, many students do not take into account if the salary is going to support all of their necessary expenses. The 50/20/30 rule is a guideline that allows individuals to maintain a proportionally healthy budget. The rule states that 50 percent of your salary should go to essential needs, 20 percent to your financial goals, and 30 percent toward flexible spending. Students’ eagerness to find a job often leave them settling for salaries that are way below the salary an employer is willing to offer. Collins explains that an employer expects to negotiate with a potential employee, making it vital for you to know your worth as an employee, and what salary you deserve based on the market rate in a specific area. “When negotiating, you have to make it about what you bring to the table, and what your qualifications are,” said Collins. Students in attendance learned to never discuss their desired salary before they are offered the position and are presented a salary and benefits. The workshop provided deflective strategies for students to use when an employer pressures them to tell them what their desired salary is without having put an offer down first. For many students, the idea of negotiating a salary is daunting, and it feels like you are coming across as cocky rather than confident. “If they offer it to you, they want you, so do not let fear of losing an offer deter you from negotiating,” said Collins. This workshop is created specifically for womenidentified students, but is open and valuable to all students. Women Conquer the World will hold another $mart $tart series this coming April.
The Clifton area recently gained another restaurant attraction for University of Cincinnati students to enjoy when the dining halls no longer satisfy their food cravings. Roll On In, the second of this franchise, is a new restaurant located on West Clifton Avenue. The other is located in Lebanon, Ohio, which opened in June of last year. This innovative restaurant combines the fresh taste of sushi with the convenience of a burrito. Though they have only been open for two months, Roll On In has created a large presence among students and residents in the Clifton area. Manager Ronald Kinzer explained that the goal behind Roll On In is to “bring sushi into mainstream culture.” The inventive idea of sushi burritos provides the opportunity for those who have never tried sushi, or do not like it, to be eased into it. This is made possible by offering customers a variety of choices, such as teriyaki and sweet chili gyro meat combined with toppings like avocado, cucumber and cream cheese. Sushi burritos are not the only entrée offered on the
menu. The restaurant offers salads and bowls as well, which creates diversity and intrigue amid new consumers. “It’s the way you eat it that creates the experience,” says Kinzer. The restaurant creates a mellow and relaxing atmosphere, and the enthusiastic employees make for an even better experience. Matthew Bacher, a first-year architectural engineering student, describes Roll On In as being Chipotle, but for sushi. It’s a restaurant that he will definitely be revisiting. Though Bacher’s comparison is accurate, it does not nearly begin to describe the entire idea behind the restaurant. Along with allowing sushi to enter the mainstream culture, this allows students to experience and taste different food from various cultures, all while being served in new, edgy ways. Its prime location offers students easy access and allows them to experience a new type of modern age sushi with a twist. Roll On In creates the perfect balance of modernism and edge that allows it to stay competitive with the vast variety of food options within its
vicinity. The food itself is fresh and provides an authentic sushi taste, while also having its own personal traits. For the traditional burrito, consumers have a choice between seaweed and soy wraps, which is primarily only a difference in texture. Then they have the option of how many different proteins they would like,
followed by their preferred toppings and an array of sauces to choose from. The price point of these burritos, salads and bowls allows the business to stay competitive with the many sushi and burrito places in the Clifton area. The unique spot and concept draws potential customers in, and the quirky, ironic name provides even more of a
reason for new and hungry consumers to walk through the door. It is the perfect example of a contemporary, current and edgy restaurant that is well worth trying. Whether one is looking for a new place to try sushi or maybe seeking out a twist on a classic dish, Roll On In is sure to deliver.
JEAN PLEITEZ | CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER
Roll On In newest location on W Clifton Ave, Wednesday, February 1, 2017.
Life is better with 4 Paws For Ability PATRICK LAPRADE | CONTRIBUTOR
SHAE COMBS | PHOTO EDITOR
The Poetry of Place exhibition at the Cincinnai Art museum features photographs by William Clift, Linda Connor, and Michael Kenna. February 1, 2017.
‘The Poetry of Place’ exhibit at Cincinnati Art Museum ERIN COUCH | STAFF REPORTER
Only poetry can elicit visceral imagery, whisking us away to other dimensions and universes through the simple medium of words. Cincinnati Art Museum’s (CAM) latest exhibit, “The Poetry of Place,” reverses the roles of poetry and imagery by displaying ethereal photographs of different places, prompting the viewer to make the opposite connection — from images to words. The exhibit features the work of photographers William Clift, Linda Connor and Michael Kenna from different points in their careers. With subjects focusing on commonplace scenes, these understated pictures are black and white, further eluding the mystery the photographers convey in their collections. In the description plaque in the gallery, photographer Michael Kenna likens his work to less complicated forms of poetry. However, this doesn’t make it less imaginative. “If I use the analogy of writing, I feel that my work would be much closer to haiku poetry than full-length prose,” Kenna said. “I don’t need to describe everything that’s going on. I suggest one or two elements and use them as catalysts for my own imagination, and hopefully, for the viewers’ imagination.” Like a haiku, the messages behind the places in these images are not immediately obvious; they are simple, yet captivating. In regard to simplicity, Kenna’s “Broughton Castle” comes to mind. It depicts a lake scene with the faint outline of a castle into a misty distance. But, like poetry, there is more to this picture than meets the eye. Prolonged hours-long shutter exposure
created the effect of softened cloud outlines and ripples in the water, creating a celestial, unworldly effect over the foggy composition. Furthering the play of light and dark, “Docks Study #5” features a dock projecting out into water. Taken only with very low light, it creates a stark contrast between the water and the dock, leaving a sharp, black outline of the figure against the water. It leaves a striking image that appears two-dimensional. Selections from photographer William Clift are also heavily laden with nature themes that play with light and dark. The unlikely subject is only the shadow of a small coastal community being cast into the shore. With the angle of the sun, the shadow becomes an enormous — almost castle-like — figure in the water. The places shot by Linda Connor, however, take a step away from alfresco settings and focuses indoors. “The Front Hall” is just what its name implies. The camera angles you down a short, shabby hallway with only available light coming in from the door of the kitchen. This photo was shot in the famous 200-year-old Olson House in Maine, which was also the subject of artist Andrew Wyeth’s body of work in the mid-20th century. Reading poetry and appreciating visual art are easy when done exclusively, but describing one with the other in mind proves to be a more difficult, stimulating task. If you’re up for the challenge, visit “The Poetry of Place,” which is on view now through June 11 at the Cincinnati Art Museum.
4 Paws For Ability is a non-profit student group centered here at the University of Cincinnati, whose goal is to enrich the lives of students plagued with disabilities with the help of some four-legged friends. These dogs are socialized and trained in order to help students develop a sense of independence for themselves and their families. Their mission doesn’t conclude at providing students with a furry friend, but provides an educational platform in which the public can be made aware of service animals, what they do and how they benefit their recipients. In their charitable nature, 4 Paws for Ability also assists with animal rescue facilities within their communities, when possible. As an incentive for their mission, students share friendship with those who share similar ambitions and passions. Olivia Mullins, a secondyear neuroscience pre-med student and member of the organization, recalls a graduation for one of the dogs that a friend had fostered last semester. “Seeing the faces of the families who received their dogs that they so desperately needed made me fall even more in love with this organization. It’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever been involved with,” said Mullins. Skylar Wilson, a thirdyear real estate student and member of the organization, fostered a dog herself. She delves into the emotional impact that this organization has had on her life. “We take so many things for granted, like being able to go about our daily lives on our own without thinking about support. We often don’t think about the children who live a limited life, but these animals can have an amazing impact on the families who receive
them,” said Wilson. Wilson’s involvement with 4 Paws for Ability is her way of giving back to an organization that she believes in so much. “I am incredibly grateful, not only for the people and pups I have met, but the responsibility and love I have gained in the process,” said Wilson. Meghan King, a fourthyear psychology student with a certificate in deaf studies, is the president of 4 Paws For Ability. She says that UC has gained more than ten dogs in which the students can foster, and she describes the organization as having a very convergent nature. “Together, we celebrate diversity along with doing great work for our fellow community members,” said King. Fostering a puppy undoubtedly comes with great responsibility; dogs require love, patience and the monetary means in order to support such a pet. Albeit, many benefits come with owning or fostering a pup as well. One such benefit is an improved immune system, an idea that seems contradictory to the idea of owning a dog. Pets are ubiquitous concepts throughout varying cultures, and it has always been thought that the cute boy at the park with a puppy will always have some admirers – but this isn’t a stretch of the truth. Pets are great for socialization. In keeping your pet(s) active, one might go to a dog park or an obedience class. Here, you meet people who share at least one similar interest: you all have a pet. This encourages casual conversation about your pet and their eclectic character, opening up a door for new social circles with similar interests. 4 Paws for Ability strives to improve the lives of those in need, working everyday to ensure comfort and stability in a rough world.
SHAE COMBS | PHOTO EDITOR
Stella, a six month old Golden Retriever is in training to become a service dog. February 1, 2017.
4 / SPORTS Athletes talk about Super Bowl THURSDAY, FEB. 2, 2017
DAVID WYSONG | SPORTS EDITOR
CURTIS COMPTON | ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION | TNS
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan signals touchdown as running back Devonta Freeman just gets into the end zone for a touchdown against Green Bay Packers’ Morgan Burnett for a 37-7 lead during the third quarter in the NFC Championship game on Sunday, Jan. 22, 2017, in Atlanta, Ga.
Millions of Americans will have their eyes on the television Sunday, watching arguably the biggest sporting event of the year: The Super Bowl. Athletes at the University of Cincinnati are no different than the rest of America; they will be tuning in while two teams battle for the Vince Lombardi Trophy. This year’s game will feature the American Football Conference champions, the New England Patriots, and the National Football Conference champions, the Atlanta Falcons. The Patriots have been a mainstay in the game for almost two decades, making their seventh appearance since 2002, with their most recent win two seasons ago in 2015. The Falcons, on the other hand, are only making their second overall Super Bowl appearance. This is their first time in the game since the 1998-1999 season, and they have yet to win one.
Naturally, Atlanta’s lack of appearances in the big game has given them the underdog title. “I did not expect the playoffs to turn out the way they have. [I] never would have thought that the Falcons would be making a Super Bowl appearance this year,” said Bearcat running back Taylor Boose. Despite being the underdog, Atlanta has one of the best quarterbacks in the league, Matt Ryan, which results in a matchup of some of the NFL’s top quarterbacks. New England’s quarterback, Tom Brady, has played in all six of their prior super bowls since 2002 and has four championship rings to show for it. In addition, his name is atop numerous major quarterback statistical categories, making an argument for him to be considered the best player to ever play his position. This season, Ryan was No. 2 in the league in passing yards, compiling stats of 4,944 yards, 38 touchdowns and seven interceptions.
Brady, who played in four less games than Ryan due to a suspension, threw for 3,554 yards, 28 touchdowns and two interceptions. Despite Brady putting up solid numbers on his way to the Super Bowl, many are still focused on his suspension early in the season. Brady was suspended for four games due to deflating air out of footballs in a playoff game against the Indianapolis Colts during the 2014-15 season. “Deflategate Tom has shown everybody, once again, how great he is, having one of the greatest seasons of his career at 39 years old, and that the deflate-gate stuff is ridiculous,” said UC track and field athlete Naomi Urbano. Putting the deflating scandal aside, it will be hard to pre-determine which quarterback will have the upper hand in this game. “I think I like Matt Ryan in this game because he’s on a hot streak right now, and also because he is the underdog and I know
he’s been waiting to prove himself out on a big stage,” Boose said. Some are making their decisions on their quarterback of choice based on nicknames. “Matty Ice, mostly because it’s a better nickname than Deflategate Tom. [I am] more of a Johnny [Manziel] football fan myself, though,” said UC cross-country athlete Anthony Car. With both teams being a lengthy drive from Ohio – New England located in Boston – not too many UC athletes have a horse in the race, forcing the athletes to select their team to root for based on various reasons. “[I like] New England because of their coach and quarterback. No one has ever prepared better in the history of the game,” Urbano said. Running back Joshuwa Holloman used a much different strategy than Urbano to choose his team to root for. “I’m going for the Falcons [because of] school colors, it’s only right to,” Holloman said.
Who will win the Super Bowl? TNR weighs in DAVID WYSONG | SPORTS EDITOR ETHAN RUDD | STAFF REPORTER
Sunday is the day. Super Bowl Sunday is finally just about here, as the Atlanta Falcons and New England Patriots square off in one of America’s biggest sporting events. Two of our sports experts, Ethan Rudd and David Wysong, chose who they think will hoist the Vince Lombardi Trophy at the end of Super Bowl 51.
Ethan: Atlanta Falcons
I think that Super Bowl LI will continue a current national sports trend by ending another championship drought, this time for the Atlanta Falcons. No offense has looked better than Atlanta’s, and no offense has more weapons than the Falcons. Wide receiver Julio Jones and running backs Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman alone are enough to keep defenses up at night. Plus, Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan has not thrown an interception this entire postseason. The Falcons have proven they’re legit by outscoring the Seattle Seahawks and
the Green Bay Packers by a combined score of 80-41. Patriots defensive backs, like Malcolm Butler and Devin McCourty, can try to contain this attack, but they are playing in a league birthed by the modern passing attack. Even the best corners can only contain wide receivers for so long, given the NFL’s modern rules on bump and cover techniques. Throw legacies out the window — this Atlanta offense is soaring right now.
David: New England Patriots
I want this to be known: I absolutely hate the Patriots. After their last Super Bowl win in 2015, I went into a room by myself so my friends did not have to see how mad I was. With that being said, I hate that I am picking them to win on Sunday – but they will. New England has the No. 1 scoring defense in the NFL this season, meaning they are good at keeping their opponents out of the end zone. So, if anyone can slow down Atlanta’s highpowered offense, New England is the team that can do it.
However, I think the Patriots’ defense won’t be the problem for the Falcons; Atlanta should be strong enough to hold their own against the league’s top defense. What will ultimately hurt the Falcons, in my opinion, is their defense. Yes, they have dominated their competition in the playoffs thus far, but when you look at their whole body of work, they are far from impressive. During the regular season, Atlanta was No. 23 out of 32 teams in scoring defense. They constantly allowed their opponents to find the end zone. Despite their success in the playoffs, it has come over the Seahawks’ lousy offense, which was No. 17 in the league this year, and the Packers’ banged up, injured offense. Finding success over those teams is nothing to write home about, to say the least, and the Patriots are a different beast with the best head coachquarterback combo in Bill Belichick and Tom Brady. I think the Patriots will win in a high scoring, 31-28 affair.
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Baseball team hopeful CLAUDE THOMPSON | STAFF REPORTER
Do you remember the Big East Conference? The Cincinnati Bearcats’ baseball team has not had a winning record since before they left the Big East. The 2011 season was the last time UC finished with a winning season, as they now prepare for 2017, head coach Ty Neal’s fourth season after coming to UC from the University of Indiana. Cincinnati returns only two seniors, right fielder R.J. Thompson and pitcher Andrew Zellner, but has large classes of juniors, sophomores and freshmen behind them. With such few tenured players on the team, a lot of responsibility falls on Thompson and Zellner to set the right example for the underclassmen. “Just be a good example to the younger guys,” said Zellner. “The younger pitchers who need guidance, give advice when they need it. You know, use my work ethic as something they can model themselves after.” Zellner will open the 2017 season as the opening day starter for the Bearcats. He finished last season with a 7-4 win-loss record, best on the team and led UC in earned run average and strikeouts. The ace of this pitching staff knew he had more to improve, especially after going undrafted in last year’s MLB First-Year Player Draft, in which Zellner was eligible as an underclassman. “I needed to focus on command,” Zellner said. “Being able to stay consistent in the strike zone. I’m working on a curve ball this year, so another off-speed pitch that I can throw with the other pitches that I have to keep hitters off-balance.” Thompson is fresh from offseason surgery and is hoping to get back on track after a disappointing season at the plate
and help lead the team to what he believes could be a championship season. With a .233 batting average last year, Thompson is more than aware that he has to improve on a lot in order to provide the leadership this team needs heading into the season. “We got to be an example to the younger guys with how we go about our business and how we work in the classroom, on the field and in the weight room,”Thompson said. “We have to set a good example so that way they know how we do things around here, and then they can teach the freshmen and the younger guys once they start getting older. I had to focus on getting healthy, after being pretty banged from last year, so this summer I just relaxed, got my body back in shape as much as I could and focused on hitting.” Thompson is excited about the talent this team possesses. “The sky’s the limit and we have a lot of talent on this team. We have a lot of players that are draft-eligible, and major league teams are looking at them, so this is the year to do it,”Thompson said. Players like Thompson know what drafteligible players look like, as they keep in contact with former Bearcat star Ian Happ, who was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in 2015. “I talk to Ian every now and then,” Thompson said. “He always gives me tips. I’ve told people that he’s the best baseball player that I’ve ever played with and not just because of his freakish ability on the field, but because of the way he thought about the game. I wish we still had him around to keep teaching me and keep helping out as much as he can.” The Bearcats open the season on the road in Louisiana against Northwestern State University in a three-game set on Feb. 17.
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New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) reacts after throwing a successful pass against the San Francisco 49ers in the fourth quarter on Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif. New England defeated San Francisco 30-17.