The News Record 09.12.13

VOL. CXXXIII ISSUE I • FREE-ADDITIONAL COPIES $1

THE NEWS RECORD THE UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI’S INDEPENDENT, STUDENT-RUN NEWS ORGANIZATION / THURSDAY, SEPT. 12, 2013

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Student government funds three student initiatives SG seeks to promote community, funds Friday tailgates, Nearly Naked Mile, women’s conference ALEXIS O’BRIEN CHIEF REPORTER

PHIL DIDION PHOTO EDITOR

Student Government vice president Jaclyn Hyde, president Joe Blizzard, and Rudy Saunders at the senate meeting in Tangeman Wednesday Sept. 11.

Professor wins recognition for philanthropy

To promote a sense of community on campus, the University of Cincinnati student government voted to fund three student group initiatives Wednesday.

“It’s important that student government supports other student groups and other student events,” said speaker of the senate Kathleen Hurley.

“A lot of these groups that come to ask for money can’t get money any other way. We’re a huge funding source in that way.”

SG voted to allocate some of its $6,000 of yearly cosponsorship funds to Bearcat Friday Tailgates, the Nearly Naked Mile and CONNECT 2013 after representatives of each group presented their goals and monetary needs to

student government members.

Bearcat Friday Tailgates is a RallyCat led event that encourages UC students to wear university colors each Friday of the fall semester and received $1,400.

The Nearly Naked Mile is a Cincinnatus Honorary Society led event that supports local charities and student fitness, and received $485.

“We’re hoping to reach more non-traditional and traditional students at the university, Greek life or nonGreek life, involved or not involved,” said senator at-large Andrew Naab. “We believe the nearly naked mile will contribute to that.”

CONNECT 2013 is a young women’s conference led by The Lambda Society, Sigma Phi and Cincinnati Women in Excellence and Spirit Together and received $562.

“It’s all about the student experience, getting involved and participating in what UC has to offer,” Hurley said.

“Our goal is to be here for students and to be their voice, in whatever way that might mean.”

Poor turnout for fire safety event

MONROE TROMBLY CONTRIBUTOR

A University of Cincinnati Clermont College professor has broken the myth that one person cannot make a difference.

Future Without Poverty, an internationally run anti-poverty nonprofit, awarded Michael Preston, assistant professor, this year’s “Breaking the Myth of No Effect” Award.

Preston established a chapter of FWOP at UC Clermont in 2012 and received the award specifically for organizing a recent trip to the Yucatan in Mexico where faculty and students helped teach Spanish to indigenous people.

Throughout his life, Preston continually and explicitly stressed the importance of helping people out in whatever way possible.

“If you have the ability to do something you should be doing it,” Preston said.

Before becoming a professor of biology at UC Clermont, Preston was a coal miner.

He later helped his native area of eastern Kentucky by establishing his own dental practice, focusing on helping the coal miners of the region.

“What we’re trying to do is to provide opportunities for students,” Preston said.

“Not just at Clermont, [but at] main campus, wherever.”

The UC Clermont FWOP chapter proved to be highly popular and accessible to students and faculty, and more trips to the Mexican regions of Zacatecas and the Yucatan are in the preliminary stages of planning, Preston said.

Preston hopes to establish a spring break course in the Yucatan, where students would travel to learn about the ecology of the region and the medicinal pharmacology of native plants.

He wants the Clermont FWOP chapter to evolve into a more student-driven organization with faculty guidance where needed.

In order for the organization to continue to grow as a whole, the group should be joined by and represented by students from all UC campuses, Preston said.

MADISON SCHMIDT CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Sean Simons (left) and Alvaro Lianos (right) speak to a lower than expected amount of students in the University of Cincinnati’s Tangeman University Center Monday. The two men survived a deadly fire that claimed three students lives at Seton Hall in January 2000. Simons and Lianos travel the country telling their story and advocating fire safety.

Attendance discouraging, officials to continue pushing fire safety measures RYAN HOFFMAN NEWS EDITOR

Tangeman University Center at the University of Cincinnati played host to an emotional and informative session on fire safety Monday, but there was one problem: very few people showed up.

Attendance was sparse at both the 3 p.m. and the 8 p.m. sessions, titled “After the Fire,” and most of the 800 seats in the Great Hall were empty.

“We’re disappointed that it didn’t draw the crowd we had anticipated,” said Daniel Cummins, assistant dean in the office of student life.

The event — intended to educate students about fire safety and available resources — was in response to an off-campus house fire that left two UC students dead in January. Both students’ parents talked briefly about what they wanted to see happen.

“My goal is to change the culture of thinking, and that’s a long-term goal,” said Ron Garner, father of Ellen Garner, one of the two students who died from smoke inhalation after the house fire.

Anne Kohles, mother of Chad Kohles who also died after the fire, warned students to be vigilant.

“Be smart, wise, be alert and make good

“This is a problem that exists in campuses around the nation and it’s just not talked about enough.”

Ron Garner, father of UC student who died after Digby house fire

choices. That’s the thing we really want to help kids understand — all of us, as adults too, that applies to everyone,” Kohles said.

“We all have to be vigilant, not fearful, but careful.”

The parents were a little disappointed by the turnout, but that will not stop them from continuing to advocate for fire safety.

“My expectation is that it’s just going to take a lot of time, and I’m patient,” Garner

said. “This is a problem that exists in campuses around the nation and it’s just not talked about enough. We think it’s very important to begin here and start talking about it.”

Cummins said he didn’t know why the turnout was poor.

“I wish I knew why we didn’t draw and audience. We really put the word out,” Cummins said.

He said his office promoted the event extensively on social media, hung up posters all over campus and promoted it in the dorms. The collaboration between the office of student life and the residence halls is what led second-year dietetics student Ashley Coram to attend the event.

“We heard about it in RA training and they showed us a documentary clip about people and why it’s important to follow procedures whenever there is a fire, to keep yourself safe and not necessarily worry about everybody else,” Coram said.

Student body president Joe Blizzard said SEE FIRE PG 2

Diversity initiatives take inclusion from classroom to curriculum Celebrating backgrounds, interests goes beyond enrollment, shifts to required literature MOLLY COHEN CONTRIBUTOR

Diversity is assuming a new role in the McMicken College of Arts and Sciences, one that includes a multicultural curriculum and classroom.

“It’s not just numbers, it’s inclusivity,” said Marilyn Kershaw, director of Diversity and Access of A&S. “You can’t just add people on campus that look different and do things the same way.”

Kershaw is at work with liaisons from each department in the college to create a strategic diversity plan.

By fall 2014, every department in A&S should have its own strategic diversity plan. The plan’s aim is to increase student and faculty retention and recruitment, student graduation, collaboration on training and professional development on diversity issues.

For some, increasing diversity relates directly to the student body and faculty members having a diverse range of people on campus in regards to race, gender and sexuality.

However, Dean Ronald Jackson said the curriculum also plays a role. To add diversity, he suggests that literature in English classes should be from every country.

“Right now we look for a certain kind of canon when we choose the classics,” Jackson said. “[The goal is to] create a kind of inclusive environment that celebrates peoples

backgrounds and interests.”

Looking at diversity in terms of numbers, there is a large jump in representation.

In a 2012 study of the undergraduate students in A&S — the largest and most diverse college at the University of Cincinnati — the most represented races are students who are white with 5,084 students and black with 721 students.

The races least represented include American Indian and Alaska Native.

“We are diverse in the sense that there are different backgrounds, but multiculturalism means embracing difference,” Jackson said. “We are striding towards multiculturalism.”

Despite the differences in number, Kershaw believes SEE DIVERSITY PG 2

Local girl, DAAP students use talents, help Tsunami stricken village in Japan Elementary student helps design symbolic playground for Japan town HEATHER KING STAFF REPORTER

PROVIDED

Miya Moore, a Lebanon Elementary School student, pictured beside a mountain-like playground designed by DAAP.

A local elementary school student teamed up with University of Cincinnati students to help rebuild a part of earthquake and tsunami-devastated Japan.

Miya Moore, a Lebanon Elementary student, helped design a playground for the city of Ishinomaki, which was badly affected by the natural disaster in March 2011.

Moore and UC Design, Art, Architecture and Planning students created the Matsunami Mountain playground design during the summer semester.

“Mountains in the time of a tsunami are considered safe ground, and mountains have a lot of significant meaning in Japanese culture,” said Emiko Moore,

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Miya Moore’s mother. “The people in the neighborhood really liked the students using that symbolism of safety in the design.”

When Miya Moore learned that the disaster affected her mother’s hometown she went to her and said she wanted to raise money and give it to Japan.

So the two made wristbands to raise money for the relief effort. The wristband displays a special and personal phrase, “Gaman,” meaning patience and perseverance. It is a saying Emiko Moore uses often.

“We sold, probably, in the first year several thousand, probably five thousand or so, and we sent the money to the relief effort,” Moore said.

When wristband sales started winding down, the Moore family decided that building a playground for the residents of SEE DAAP PG 2

2 / NEWS

THURSDAY, SEPT. 12, 2013 / NEWSRECORD.ORG

A&S liaison now oversees all colleges

Program director ‘most innovative’ in criminal justice

Former part-time A&S adviser hired for new position in enrollment office

NATHALIA BACKELJAUW CONTRIBUTOR

BRYAN SHUPE STAFF REPORTER

One of the University of Cincinnati’s top professors who has done extensive work in criminal justice, juvenile justice and corrections is being recognized for leadership and innovation.

Edward Latessa, professor and director of the School of Criminal Justice, was recently named one of the most innovative people in criminal justice through a national survey of criminal justice leaders.

The survey, Innovation in the Criminal Justice System: A National Survey of Criminal Justice Leaders, focused on understanding the current state of innovation and failure within the field of criminal justice.

The Center for Court Innovation, in partnership with the Bureau of Justice Assistance and the U.S. Department of Justice, administered the survey to 1,000 professionals nationwide.

Among the 1,000 surveyed were 300 community corrections officials, 300 leaders from prosecutors’ offices, 300 police chiefs and sheriffs and 102 chief judges and chief court administrators representing each state, including the District of Columbia.

“I did not know they were doing the study,” Latessa said. “Since they only survey people in the field and not academics, it was a nice honor.”

The questionnaire focused on four key results: prevalence of innovation, data-driven decision making, barriers to innovation and sources of new ideas.

Latessa, who received his Ph.D. in public administration, was surprised to be recognized for his work.

On the other hand, Larry Johnson, dean of the College of Education, Criminal Justice and Human Services was not surprised to hear about Latessa’s recognition.

“He’s the kind of individual that can see through things that aren’t very substantial and can get to the heart of the matter, and can see things in ways nobody else can,” Johnson said. “We have a great friendship and we have a great respect for each other.”

Latessa’s research focuses on developing tools and evidence-based practices, a current demand in the field of criminal justice.

“There are probably a dozen universities and organizations that are now pushing evidence-based practices in corrections and policing,” Latessa said.

Within the questionnaire itself, evidencebased practices were mentioned as one of the most highly anticipated programs in the field, showing that evidence is being used more commonly to make wellinformed decisions.

Innovative leaders, like Latessa, are working on improving the criminal justice system through evidence-based techniques.

There are constantly new problems that need to be faced, and leaders worldwide are figuring out what works best.

FROM DIVERSITY PG 1

that students can bridge the gap through inclusivity.

“Our goal is to have students be aware of the role that they play,” Kershaw said. “Be civil, be welcoming, report those that are not, and be open to change. Never leave

The second highest collegiate priority to students is academic advising, and newly hired provostal liaison Tara Warden will work to keep students content.

Warden, current assistant dean of advising, has been holding both titles, but will now be devoting her time as full-time provostal liaison starting Sept. 23.

“Because I’ve been doing this on a halftime basis for the past two and half years, I’ve been working with all the colleges, in particular with the advising directors and assistant deans in each of the colleges to help with planning and deployment,” Warden said.

Warden was brought to the University of Cincinnati in 2003 as the founding director of the Center of Exploratory Studies. She was promoted to assistant dean in 2005 to oversee advising for the College of Arts and Sciences, the largest college in the university.

By working in the office of enrollment management, Warden will not only continue her work with A&S, but will oversee all other colleges as well.

Efficient advising is important to ensure that students get the most out of their academic experience, Warden said.

She wants to reduce adviser caseloads to give students a more intimate relationship with their adviser.

Warden looks to UC’s participation in the Student Satisfactory Inventory, a survey used to gauge what student’s

PHIL DIDION PHOTO EDITOR

New liaison to the provost for the College of Arts and Sciences Tara Warden in her office in French Hall. Warden was recently hired to work in the office of enrollment management where she hopes to continue growing enrollment.

highest priorities are.

“Of all the different areas that are ranked, academic advising is the second most important thing to our students only after the quality of instructional effectiveness,”Warden said. “The good news is, advising is also the second highest thing that the students are satisfied with, after campus support services such as the library and bookstore.”

Warden’s commitment to A&S and CES advising programs have played a pivotal role within the two colleges, said A&S Dean Ronald Jackson.

FROM FIRE PG 1

MADISON SCHMIDT CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Ron Garner speaks at Monday’s “After the Fire.”

all parties involved would use the event as a learning experience for the future.

“It was the first we did an event like this and ultimately it was a learning experience,” Blizzard said.

Student government plans on promoting its safe housing initiative throughout September, Blizzard said. The joint effort spearheaded by SG and the City of Cincinnati allows students to have their house or apartment inspected by fire officials free of charge.

The office of student life has events planned for the rest of the semester.

Cummins said the ultimate goal is to

“Tara will be missed in A&S. We all wish her well as she transitions to the next phase of her career,” Jackson said.

The university has seen an increase in student retention and graduation rates, which led to UC’s ranking as the No. 1 national university for students getting the “Best Bang for the Buck,” according to policymic.com.

Billie Burton is currently the interim CES director and will also be serving as the interim assistant dean of advising starting Sept. 23. A search will be conducted to find a new CES director.

ingrain fire safety into the fabric of the university.

There are plans to go door to door in the areas surrounding campus and hand out information on fire safety, as well as smoke detectors for any student who is interested.

The office of student life is currently communicating with the Cincinnati Fire Department about offering a possible one-time, four-hour educational seminar on fire safety. Cummins is scheduled to meet with CFD officials Tuesday and discuss that as well as other options.

“We are certainly not leaving anything off the table,” Cummins said. “We are looking at everything.”

Ishinomaki would bring peace, hope and a sense of normalcy to the town.

DAAP students created five designs; the Ishinomaki community chose Mastunami Mountain. The design is inter-generational, meaning both children and seniors can enjoy it.

“Playgrounds are more spatial objects, requiring us to brush up our knowledge on safety regulations, large scale structures, the psychology of play and interaction, as well as cultural aspects of Ishinomaki

specifically and Japan as a whole so that our portion of the park could be integrated into the surrounding part of town in a proper manner,” said Branden Francis, one of the DAAP students involved in the project.

Fundraising for this project is ongoing and Emiko hopes to raise more money by the end of the year. The construction company, located within Ishinomaki, requested an additional 15 percent of the cost to prepare the land because salt water from the tsunami rendered the land unusable.

The total cost of the project is about $530,000, which covers everything from materials and labor to shipping and the construction of the custom design.

To raise money, ceramic artist Ikuhiko Shibata created teacups and tea bowls that represent Ishinomaki. All of the money raised from selling them is donated to the project and can be purchased at Hanamiya in Blue Ash. Although there is progress in Ishinomaki, many residents are still living in temporary housing and many people are still missing.

college way you came.”

Kershaw along with other faculty are in the process of launching more diversity plans, including McMicken’s Young Scholars and a Latino Initiative.

The scholars program will work on increasing retention rates at UC by identifying talented students in seventh

grade and bringing them on campus before the college application process, while the Latino Initiative will focus on increasing the number of Latino students represented.

“We’re really trying to impact diversity at all levels, be a university of access,” Kershaw said.

Increasing and promoting diversity and

inclusivity is a large effort, and involves not just faculty and staff, but students as well.

“If we think innovatively, collectively, and collaboratively,” she said, “we should impact diversity.”

FROM DAAP PG 1

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Kara Driscoll | Editor-in-Chief

Keith Bowers | Multimedia Editor

Katie Griffith | Managing Editor

Becky Butts | Digital Editor

Ryan Hoffman | News Editor

Madison Schmidt | Chief Photographer

Ben Goldschmidt | News Editor

Alexis O’Brien | Chief Reporter

Phil Didion | Photo Editor

Kate Davis | Lead Designer

Josh Miller | Sports Editor

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Emily Begley | College Life Editor

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DONOR APPRECIATION

(WERE YOU EXPECTING A COOKIE?)

Donate blood at the UC All Campus Blood Drive and receive a $5 Chipotle Card as a special thank you, compliments of UC Bookstores and Hoxworth Blood Center.

Of course cookies will also be available.

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All donors receive a $5 Chipotle Card!

ALL TYPES WELCOME.

4 / ARTS

THURSDAY, SEPT. 12, 2013 / NEWSRECORD.ORG

Multi-talented collaborator spotlighted Vernon makes multiple appearances with greats like Dylan and West MATTHEW ADAMS STAFF REPORTER

Singer-songwriter Justin Vernon has formed a much celebrated and incredibly varied career in a relatively short period of time. He came to fame with his initially solo project Bon Iver and in September released the acclaimed album “Repave,” with the band Volcano Choir. Vernon consistently composes nuanced work, full of impassioned musical moments. Since Vernon’s most popular work is through Bon Iver, which is currently on indefinite hiatus, here are some of the musician’s best, lesser-known moments: “Dusty Road (So Kind)” — DeYarmond Edison, “DeYarmond Edison” Before Vernon found his falsetto, he retreated to a cabin in the woods and recorded Bon Iver’s first album; he was the lead vocalist of Wisconsin-based Americana group, DeYarmond Edison. The highlight of their self-titled LP is the weary folk tune, “Dusty Road (So Kind).” A far cry from Vernon’s recent work, the roots-y ballad features sparse acoustic picking

and a steady, brushed snare pattern.

The song’s climax comes five minutes in, when the music quiets for Vernon to wail his desperations, and then return in great punches. It serves as one the prime examples of Vernon’s vocal range and fervent phrasing.

“The Last Prom on Earth” — Gayngs, “Gayngs”

Though “The Last Prom on Earth” may be difficult to take seriously, Vernon’s quasirap at the end of the ’80s soft rock homage is irresistible. After a laughable, softly spoken monologue, the track crescendos as Vernon arrives to do his best R.Kelly impression. Melding R&B slang with the lyricist’s usual impressionism, the vocals go back and forth between registers, “I’m noticing a 10 to the right/but I’d rather trade up in attics.”Whether or not it’s tongue-in-cheek, “Last Prom” is the most fun performance of the often sullen artist.

best-recorded performances. As part of a collaboration with a high school Jazz band from his hometown, Vernon performed the intimate arrangement live. After a thoughtful introduction, he alone sings the gospel-tinged piece, blending both woe and hope and making his own of a song that’s been recorded by the likes of Ella Fitzgerald and Bob Dylan.

“I’m In It” — Kanye West, “Yeezus” You may not be able to decipher any of

“Byegone” — Volcano Choir, “Repave” Released as a single in June for an album that was released in September, “Byegone” stands as one of Vernon’s greatest successes. With lyrics like “Sexing all your parliaments,” some may scoff. Vernon’s understanding of phonetic pleasures and phrasing forgives any issues of the nonsensical. The song is built on a driving momentum, which ultimately comes to a head as the singer signals a grand collision of sounds just before the anthem-like chorus of “Set Sail.”There’s a rousing suspense in the vocals with an even more impactful payoff, and it’s one of the artist’s greatest music moments.

“A Satisfied Mind” — Eau Claire Memorial Jazz I, “A Decade with Duke” It’s too difficult to isolate just one moment from this incredible rendition of the country standard, but Vernon’s “A Satisfied Mind” cover is one of his

the words, but the women’s studies major contribution to the explicit sex rap “I’m In It” is one of the highlights of both the excellent “Yeezus” album and Vernon’s nonBon Iver Career. With razor-sharp cadence and conviction that rivals even West’s emphatic delivery, the singer silences the frantic beat with his last line of the chorus, making way for the impactful bass-drone of the next verse. The result is a striking musical moment impossible to find anywhere else in hip-hop.

PROVIDED

Kutcher surprises audience with role in ‘Jobs’ No worm in Jobs’ Apple, even with relatively unknown cast ROBERT BREEN CONTRIBUTOR

“Jobs” tells the extraordinary tale of Apple’s co-founder and visionary, Steve Jobs (Ashton Kutcher). From the time the movie begins, the audience is drawn in and captivated. The film begins with Jobs introducing the iPod to the world, explaining that it will revolutionize the way people listen to music.

From there, the movie flashes back to Jobs at the end of his college days when he formed a partnership with his friend, Steve Wozniak (Josh Gad) and together they created the Apple I. From there, the plot follows Jobs and Wozniak as they launch Apple Computer and progress from the Apple II to the iMac. From the first scene to the last, the film does and excellent job of getting the viewer to share Jobs’ emotions. When he is mad at his employees, the audience lurched back, wondering what will happen next. When he accomplishes a significant achievement, the audience wanted to stand up and applaud.

But the story isn’t always bright and cheery.

It takes a dark turn when Jobs finds himself alone, fired from his own company for his perfectionism and his stubbornness.

He starts a new technology company, NeXT, which is eventually bought out

by Apple. This is the stepping-stone that enables Jobs to ultimately take back his company.

A lot of changes happen in Jobs’ life by the

time he returns to Apple in the mid-’90s. By then, he has married, accepted his daughter — whom for years he denied was his — as his own and is ready to reinvent Apple.

The film ends with Jobs and Apple’s lead designer (Giles Matthey) collaborating on what would become the iMac. Music played a meaningful role in the film. Era-appropriate songs were played during highly emotional scenes to add to the intensity and enable the audience to connect with the characters.

“The overarching theme of inspiration continues even as the credits begin to roll.”

The lowest point of the film comes when Steve Wozniak informs Jobs that he is leaving Apple Computer for good.

Everything from the music, the camera angle and Kutcher’s performance in this scene all align to show how big of an impact the news was to Jobs.

At this point in the film, Jobs is already frustrated with the management at Apple Computer, and this news only makes things worse. Kutcher comes across as believable and was surprisingly an excellent choice for the title role.

The overarching theme of inspiration

Ashton Kutcher on set at ‘Jobs’ sporting the old-school Steve Jobs hair and attire.

continued even as the credits began to roll.

A real-life photograph of each character is displayed next to images of the actors.

It further affirms that the casting was excellent. Despite only one major actor starring in the film, the performances were magnificent overall.

PROVIDED (MCT CAMPUS)

Jobs’ life story alone is enough to influence audience members to think and see the world differently. It is a testament to how technology has come so far and to what it takes to progress.

UC student creates experimental electronic music Classic influences combine in ‘Prisoner’ MATTHEW ADAMS STAFF REPORTER

Randall Rigdon Jr. has an exciting view of electronic music.

“There is no one sound. It’s an opportunity to create whatever music you want and that’s the experience of electronic music,” Rigdon said. Under his moniker, Dark Colour, the fourth-year electronic media student applies this ideal in his LP-debut,“Prisoner.”

Released by local startup label Naturalized Records, the fifteen-track album delivers synth-laden music that traverses genres outside of the standard electronic affair.

“Why limit yourself?” Rigdon asks when explaining his approach to music. It’s this attitude that results in the various sounds through “Prisoner.”

The album opener features distorted guitar riffing fitting of an arena rock cut, while “Damn” surprisingly features a simulated banjo to great effect. In terms of tone the album waivers slightly — it balances pop and dance sensibilities, but is always anchored by an overarching synth-presence.

Though certain electronica influences may be obvious, Rigdon draws from more eclectic inspirations for his vocals. He notes an innate effect that the underappreciated Gregg Alexander, of ’90s band New Radicals, famed on his vocal style.

“I listen to ‘In My Mind’ and I think, ‘I’m just doing Gregg,’” he laughingly confessed.

The singer-songwriter also noted the impact of composer Vangelis, whose film scores

include “Chariots of Fire” and “Blade Runner.”

The lyrics of “Prisoner,” which Rigdon admits are rooted in autobiography, never

“It’s going to be a journey to reaching your ultimate state of being.” stray far from romance. Roughly narrative, the songs follow the course of a failing relationship, though they make sure to revel in the naiveté of young love along the way.

By the albums end, words come in pleas, as the vocalist alternates between a gentle crooning and his falsetto.

Ultimately, the album is intended to be the first installment of a trilogy, chronicling the transformation of the presumable protagonist of “Prisoner.”

“It’s going to be the journey to reaching your ultimate state of being,” Rigdon said.

After the recruitment of a drummer, guitarist and bassist, Dark Colour has multiple performances planned locally, including gigs at Mad Frog and Northside Tavern. Rigdon also said that the University of Cincinnati has expressed interest in Dark Colour performing at an upcoming event.

With these performances and new material already written for a sophomore album, Dark Colour is certainly gaining momentum.

PROVIDED

The Weeknd searches for meaning in newfound fame Dystopian theme creates new life for modern R&B artist CHRISTIAN WARNER STAFF REPORTER

“So you’re somebody now/But what’s a somebody in a nobody town?”

These are the words that Canadian crooner Abel Tesfaye, more commonly known as The Weeknd, painfully wails over the opening track “Professional.”

Tesfaye seems to be describing the quick changes in his life since his rise in stardom as he mentions in the album’s title track, “I went from staring at the same four walls for 21 years to seeing the whole world in just twelve months.”

The Weeknd has brought his own unique,

dark and misogynistic indie style of R&B (now called hipster R&B or PBR&B) that has turned the music industry upside down. Tesfaye has garnered a solid fan base with the release of his three mix tapes “House of Balloons,”“Thursday” and “Echoes of Silence,” resulting in his first compilation album “Trilogy,” which has been certified platinum.

But Tesfaye’s debut album “Kiss Land” is not a continuation of “Trilogy.” He actually ups the ante from his previous works.

His music conveys vulnerability and suffering and reveals that his life on tour is beginning to take its toll.

As Tesfaye laments and boasts in the album’s slow-motion horror-ridden title track, “I got a brand new place/I think I’ve seen it twice all year.”

The theme of “Kiss Land” seems to be a post-fame album and offers a deeper sense of realism than Tesfaye’s previous works.

Track five, “Belong To The World,” hosts a beat similar to that of English band Portishead, who have been an inspiration for Tesfaye. The song is a depressing anthem focusing on falling in love with the wrong woman.

The lone feature artist is fellow Canadian, Drake. He is heard on “Live For.” The pace of the song, along with Drake’s flow doesn’t quite fit the storyline of the album.

The must-listen track is “Tears In The Rain.” This is Tesfaye in his most vulnerable state, and is a painfully beautiful song that shall be remembered among fans.

It is evident from Tesfaye’s social media

posts that the entire album is inspired by 1982 cult-film Blade Runner starring Harrison Ford, which focuses on a dystopian society being ruled by a mega corporation.

To make clear the lofty metaphor, The Weeknd is the Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford) of “Kiss Land.” But like Deckard, Tesfaye is fighting for something bigger than himself. Is it purpose? Is it sanity for the life that he now lives? Then again, he’s also fighting against something bigger than himself. How can he discover sanity in a world where sanity may not exist?

“Kiss Land” reveals those horrors perfectly. Because these are not the four walls that he has been staring at for the past 21 years.

He is now somebody in an everybody town.

5 / COLLEGE LIFE

THURSDAY, SEPT. 12, 2013 / NEWSRECORD.ORG

Black Student Welcome celebrates, inspires Entertainment, speeches, involvement engage incoming freshmen during Akwaaba celebration CASSANDRA MERINO CONTRIBUTOR

Dancing and rhythmic music filled the Tangeman University Center Great Hall during the annual Akwaaba Black Student Welcome on Sunday.

Hosted by the African American Cultural & Resource Center (AACRC), Akwaaba, which means,“welcome” in Swahili, serves to welcome incoming freshmen as well as the new school year.

The performances and the people filled the room with a vibrant sense of celebration. The AACRC Choir, the Greek Stroll Competition and the UC African Student Association (UCASA) dance team comprised just some of the performances that took place during the event.

This is the first year men have joined UCASA. Going to a few practices for fun turned into much more; the men made their debut as new dance members in Spring

semester’s African Show.

Three groups went head to head in a dance competition and the AACRC choir added beat boxing to the mix. Along with entertainment, many speakers were present at the event including Eric Abercrumbie, director of Ethnic Programs and Services.

“Make a critical difference,”Abercrumbie said in his speech.

The speeches at Akwaaba urged new students to get involved.

Many organizations AACRC offers had information booths set up at the event for incoming freshmen and transfer students.

AACRC members agree that the organization offers a place of acceptance, and many said it was one of the reasons for joining the group. When students walk in the office, they are greeted with Swahili phrases often.

“Being in transitions as a freshman helped me to get involved, helped me grow as a leader and not be afraid because of my color and to not limit myself,” said Rosie Macedo, a third-year student and AACRC member.

Akwaaba’s engaging entertainment and inspirational speeches made for an experience students will not soon forget.

DAN SULLIVAN CONTRIBUTOR

Music echoed throughout the Tangeman University Center Great Hall during the annual Akwaaba Black Student Welcome on Sunday. The incoming class was entertained by dancers, singers and more throughout the event, and attendees had the opportunity to learn about the wide variety of organizations offered by the AACRC.

DAN SULLIVAN CONTRIBUTOR

Prominent writers to speak, sign books on campus Fall semester Visiting Writers Series brings poets, fiction writers, more to campus as part of Creative Writing Program AMONA REFAEI STAFF REPORTER

University of Cincinnati students have a rare opportunity to hear distinguished writers and poets on campus. Students, faculty and staff had their first chance to listen to well-respected writers read their works Friday as a part of the Visiting Writers Series.

Yona Harvey, the author of a poetry collection called “Hemming the Water,” and

Jamie Quatro, a New York Times Editors’ Choice author, were featured speakers for Friday’s event. Quatro’s story collection “I Want to Show You More” is also a New Atlantic Independent Booksellers Association Bestseller and a pick for the Indie Next List.

As a part of UC’s Creative Writing Program, poets as well as fiction writers will be visiting UC and participating in public readings throughout Fall semester. Every event will be comprised of a public reading of each writer’s work followed by book signings for students. Every reading is free and open to the public.

The next event in the series will take place at 7 p.m. Sept. 18, when best-selling author

Colum McCann will speak in Baldwin Hall.

McCann is the author of five novels and two collections of stories. He has been awarded a number of international honors and awards.

McCann’s novel “Let the Great World Spin” focuses on New York in the 1970s and follows Philippe Petit’s iconic tightrope walk between the Twin Towers.

“Let the Great World Spin” is a best seller on four continents. The novel has been the recipient of awards worldwide including the 2009 National Book Award in the U.S., the 2010 Best Foreign Novel Award in China and a literary award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters.

McCann’s works have been translated

and published in more than 30 languages.

In addition to publishing his own novels, the author has written for a myriad of publications such as The New York Times, the Irish Times, Paris Match and The Guardian.

McCann’s works include a vast assortment of topics. He has focused on issues such as the Troubles in Northern Ireland and the homeless living in subway tunnels of New York.

McCann is one of many well–known authors set to visit UC between now and Nov. 22, allowing students to hear renowned authors without leaving campus.

Classic songs, choreography motivate during new Cincinnati workout New fitness class from creator of Cin City Burlesque promotes health, confidence with low impact routine HEATHER KING STAFF REPORTER

PROVIDED

Instructors of low impact Pump and Grind classes help students master the proper form. The workout is a combination of sculpting and cardio accompanied by classic tunes and choreography. Students can start feeling the burn during Pump and Grind classes taught at Nico G in Blue Ash and Step-N-Out Studio in Covington, Ky.

Students can strengthen, sculpt and sweat during Cincinnati’s new burlesque–based fitness class, created by the founder of Cin City Burlesque.

Ginger LeSnapps’ Pump and Grind class combines cardio and sculpting by applying original choreography to classic and new burlesque music. Muscle strengthening techniques and the use of light hand weights are for sculpting. The exercise is complete with stretching out muscles to lengthen them and increase flexibility.

Students can join classes taught at two locations close to home. Nico G in Blue Ash is offering Pump and Grind at Fitness Physiques. Step–N–Out Studio in Covington, Ky. also hosts the class.

It is a low–impact workout and LeSnapps and her instructors take the utmost care to help those in class to use proper form.

Besides a worthwhile workout, Pump and Grind promotes positive body image for women of all shapes and sizes. It is about building strength as well as confidence.

Songs like “Chick Habit” by April March and “The Cell Block Tango” from the musical “Chicago” drives motivation throughout the workout.

The Pump and Grind mission statement is, “Building better burly bodies one bump at a time.”

The term “burly” in this case stands for

burlesque and combines burlesque–style choreography with isometric techniques.

Applying the right form and tension in the arms sculpts the muscles without the use of hand weights, and once the participants

“Besides an amazing workout, Pump and Grind promotes positive body image for women of all shapes and sizes, so it is about building strength as well as confidence. ” master this technique, the hand weights will be added later.

This is an exercise class that all shapes and sizes of women can enjoy in a welcoming environment. Pump and Grind is one of the most unique workouts Cincinnati has to offer.

6 / SPORTS

THURSDAY, SEPT. 12, 2013 / NEWSRECORD.ORG

USMNT secures spot in 2014 World Cup

KYLE ROBERTSON (MCT CAMPUS/ THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH)

(Left) Landon Donovan (10) of the United States gets past Hiram Mier of Mexico, setting up a score in the second half during 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifying at Columbus Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio, Tuesday, September 10, 2013.

(Right), Donovan celebrates with teammates Graham Zusi and Brad Davis, left, after giving the U.S. a two-goal advantage against Mexico.

Americans keep ‘Dos a Cero’ streak alive against Mexico, earn seventh consecutive World Cup berth JOSHUA MILLER SPORTS EDITOR

The literal translation of “Dos a Cero” is simply 2-0. In the world of international soccer, however, “Dos a Cero” carries far more weight than the score of a game.

Celebrated with chants and drinks above the Rio Grande, “Dos a Cero” means the United States men’s national soccer team defeated the Mexican national team at Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio. As the “dos” implies, the score was 2-0.

With a goal each from Eddie Johnson and Landon Donovan, the U.S. defeated

Mexico 2-0 Tuesday, clinching a spot in the 2014 World Cup. “For [the U.S.], qualifying for the world cup is an awesome thing, but I think it’s become now where it’s expected,” said Hylton Dayes, University of Cincinnati head soccer coach. “Beating your rival, Mexico, is just the icing on the cake because at the end of the day, that’s who you want to replace as the best team in this region.”

The USMNT has never lost in Columbus and with the recent victory, improved to a perfect 4-0 against Mexico at Crew Stadium.

All four victories have come by scores of 2-0.

Tuesday’s victory was the second time in the past decade that a hostile Columbus crowd helped the U.S. secure a World

Cup birth.

“It was a great environment and it’s great to see the USMNT playing here in Ohio because I think Ohio is a great soccer state and we showed that last night,” Dayes said.

After being out-played to some extent in the first half, the U.S. regrouped at halftime.

As has been the calling card of American soccer, the U.S. utilized a set piece to strike first. Seattle Sounders forward Eddie Johnson rose high above the Mexican backline to head home a perfect cross from Landon Donovan in the 49th minute.

The American’s possessed the ball well throughout the second half and limited Mexico to a hand full of actual goal-scoring opportunities.

Donovan, America’s all-time leading goal

scorer put the game away for good in the 78th minute, tapping in a goal from pointblank range after Mix Diskerud’s sublime touch and cross from the right side of the box.

“When Donovan scored it was the icing on the cake,” said Evan Talkers, second-year business student and former UC soccer player. “Everyone in the stadium was going crazy because we knew that we had won the game at that point. Everyone was chanting ‘Dos a Cero.’”

American captain Clint Dempsey missed a chance to put the U.S. ahead 3-0 from the penalty spot in the final seconds. His miss preserved the historical 2-0 score line.

Some will say that he missed the penalty on purpose. But, never the less, the chants went on.

“Dos a Cero, Dos a Cero.”

UC volleyball drops to 0-7 after WKU loss Bearcats continue to struggle in non-conference play ELLEN HADLEY STAFF WRITER

The University of Cincinnati volleyball team (0-7) fell 3-0 to No. 21 Western Kentucky University Tuesday at the E.A. Diddle Arena in Bowling Green, Ky. The Hilltoppers (5-3) beat UC in nearly every aspect of the game. With 42 kills compared to UC’s 20 and a mere eight errors in comparison to UC’s 24.

The Bearcats depended heavily on their attacking game, putting together 82 advances, compared to WKU’s 74.

Sophomore Morgan Allred led UC’s offense with four kills and four digs.

Freshmen Breanna Barksdale, Mallory Blauser, Ciara Hill and sophomore Amelia Wegman each added three kills for UC. UC’s closest game was the first with a final score of 25-15. Blauser had three early kills resulting in the first three Bearcat points but the team could not find a consistent rhythm.

WKU took an early 6-3 lead with four consecutive points. UC could not keep their

Kay, Coney called up

MADISON SCHMIDT CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Head coach Tommy Tuberville talks with quarterback Brendon Kay after their win against the Purdue Boilmakers.

The Bearcats won 42-7 at the sold out game August 31, 2013.

Bearcats look to regroup without starting QB Munchie Legaux JOSHUA MILLER SPORTS EDITOR

Baring an absolute meltdown Saturday at Nippert Stadium, defeating Northwestern State will be far from the biggest concern for head coach Tommy Tuberville and the UC Bearcats.

Following an ugly 45-17 loss at the hands of Illinois and the loss of Starting quarterback Munchie Legaux, UC has numerous questions to answer against the lower-division Demons. More importantly, is Brendon Kay’s shoulder healthy enough to lead UC in Legaux’s absence?

“He is ready to go [from a health standpoint],”Tuberville said. “He is excited and understands the situation.

The great thing about this is last year he came in later in the year and played pretty well. It is not like we have an inexperienced guy out there running the offense. Our players respect Brendon and they know what he can do.”

With Notre Dame transfer Gunner Kiel sitting out due to National Collegiate Athletic Association rules, Legaux injured and former UC quarterbacks Patrick Coyne and Jordan Luallen having been moved to other positions in the offseason, and UC is left with only three active quarterbacks on the roster.

Redshirt freshman Bennie Coney will see time Saturday, as a means of preparation.

“He will go in the game on Saturday no matter how we are doing,”Tuberville said.

“We have to get him into the game. We can’t put him into a tough situation when the first time he goes in he looks around and hasn’t taken a snap. So no matter what happens, these next two weeks I plan on giving him some playing time.”

Not surprisingly after such a sound defeat, quarterback will not be the only position to see fluctuation Saturday.

“We’ll make some position changes this week; obviously we won’t make them known,”Tuberville said. “But we’re still trying to get the pieces of the puzzle in the right spot to make this a better team.”

UC’s defensive backfield, which was picked apart by Illini QB Nathan Scheelhaase and the wide receiver unit are the most likely to see full-scale changes Saturday.

Tion Green, who missed the Illinois game while recovering from a severely broken nose, will also add depth to the ground game.

As for Legaux’s status, his family has asked for privacy in regards to his injury.

Although, Tuberville’s reluctance to comment on Legaux’s possible plans to utilize a medical redshirt, does not bode well for the fallen senior “I have spoken with Munchie a couple of times. He is ready to get it going to where he can get rehab going and see what he can do. We would love to have him back. He’s got a chance, but you just don’t know until all said and done and he sits down with the doctors.”

opponents from scoring consistently. WKU’s Noelle Langenkamp finished the first game at 25-15 with her fifth kill of the evening.

WNKU’s momentum from the first game transitioned straight into the second with an early lead of 9-0 after a compilation of kills, blocks, aces and UC errors. Freshman setter Kristin Conor ended the string of points for the Hilltoppers after dumping the ball over the net for a kill. The Bearcats could not keep up with WNKU’s attacks, tallying four kills to WKU’s 13. The second game consequently ended 25-10 in WKU’s favor.

Allred managed three kills for the

Bearcats during the third game but Western Kentucky closed the match 25-14.

Freshman Shelby Green had the only ace of the match for the Bearcats.

UC will have little reprieve, as its three upcoming matches are against teams either ranked or receiving votes in the American Volleyball Coaches Association poll.

UC hosts the UC Invitational II Sept. 1314. The Bearcats kick off the tournament Friday at 11:30 a.m., facing the Navy Midshipmen. UC also takes on Cleveland State Friday at 7 p.m. and Northern Kentucky Saturday.