The Hoya Guide: Nov. 16, 2012

the guide november 16, 2012

the weekly magazine for life on the hilltop

War on the Potomac The University During The Civil War

Looking at Combat With GU Aikikai

G4

Thanksgiving Recipes For the Novice Cook G12

Bradley Cooper Finds A Silver Lining G14

BATTLE OF THE this issue 8 THE BLUE AND GRAY lifestyle 3 10 food&drink arts & 12 entertainment center stage | surviving endless summer

sweetgreen | farmers fishers bakers

behind the screens | green day

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In 1860, as America stood on the brink of what would be the bloodiest war in U.S. history, Georgetown found itself in the middle of a tense political environment.

Students from the North and the South were frequently locked in debates over the fate of the country while the Jesuits tried to prevent violent outbursts. Once war erupted, the school was changed in profound ways. A number of students dropped out to join both sides of the war, and the campus became home to hundreds of Union soldiers. In all, 1,414 students and alumni became involved in the conflict that tore the country — and the campus — apart.

COVER PHOTO COURTESY GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES

soundbite

THE GUIDE GIVES THANKS ONLINE CONTENT

Even though we don’t have a print issue next week to celebrate Thanksgiving, look for exclusive online content at thehoya.com/the-guide.

Don’t worry — we’ll be back on Friday, Nov. 30.

the guide Sarah Kaplan, Executive Editor Steven Piccione, Managing Editor Hunter Main, Copy Chief Emory Wellman, Layout Editor Leonel De Velez, Photo Editor Nicole Jarvis, Deputy Guide Editor Sheena Karkal, Deputy Guide Editor Emily Manbeck, Deputy Guide Editor Chris Grivas, Deputy Photo Editor Erica Wong, Deputy Photo Editor Zoe Bertrand, Deputy Layout Editor Kyle Hunter, Deputy Layout Editor Jessica Natinsky, Deputy Layout Editor Shannon Reilly, Deputy Copy Editor Jamie Slater, Deputy Copy Editor Sean Sullivan, Deputy Copy Editor

Connor Gregoire, Editor-in-Chief Victoria Edel, Guide Editor

Corrections and Clarifications If you have a comment or question about the fairness or accuracy of a story, contact Executive Editor Sarah Kaplan at (202) 687-3415 or email executive@thehoya.com.

General Information THE GUIDE is published each week during the academic year with the exception of holiday and exam periods. Address all correspondence to: THE HOYA Georgetown University Box 571065 Washington, D.C. 20057-1065 The writing, articles, pictures, layout and format are the responsibility of THE HOYA and do not necessarily represent the views of the administration, faculty or students of Georgetown University.

Signed columns and cartoons represent the opinions of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the editorial position of THE HOYA. Georgetown University subscribes to the principle of responsible freedom of expression for student editors.

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NATIONAL ARCHIVES

AllieDoughty Page 5

“I can’t imagine that the leading American purveyor of baby food has ever been a big hit in France, where Gerber means ‘to vomit.’”

omglol :/ :) :( :D

CALLING ALL BELIEBERS Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez have broken up. That sound you hear is thousands of fangirls collectively rejoicing.

ONE DIRECTION, THREE DIMENSIONS One Direction announced they’re releasing a 3D movie in 2013. We’re over this trend, but we still love 1D.

NOT SO MODERN FAMILY Teen actress Ariel Winter has left her mother’s custody after reports of abuse. We hope all works out our favorite TV nerd.



STERLING COOPER DRAPER POTTER? Jon Hamm and Daniel Radcliffe will star in a U.K. miniseries together. That’ll give new meaning to mad men.

saywhat?

“

But yeah, I don’t use deodorant really anymore. I do take a lot of showers, so maybe that helps.

— Bradley Cooper (COL ’97) on his hygiene

”

lifestyle

Editors’ Picks WORD OF THE YEAR: ‘GIF’

‘THE HOST’

The year-long battle for the title of American Word of the Year awarded by the Oxford English Dictionary has come to a close. “GIF” beat out some stiff competition — ranging from Higgs-Boson to SuperPAC — and the verb has officially entered the world of everyday conversation. If this has you bemoaning the end of proper language, at least they didn’t choose the runner-up: YOLO.

A trailer for the movie adaptation of Stephanie Meyer’s other book, The Host, was just released. The Host, which comes out in March, stars Saoirse Ronan as one of the last surviving humans after an alien occupation. These aliens are more sinister than most, erasing the minds of their human hosts and occupying their bodies. Meyer didn’t write the script for this one, so we will hold off on judgment for now. Thankfully, there are no vampires or werewolves in sight.

SLASHGEAR.COM

OPEN ROAD FILMS

‘THE ONION BOOK OF KNOWN KNOWLEDGE’

ARCHDUKE JOSEPH DIAMOND

Anyone who enjoys satire will be happy to know that everyone’s favorite newspaper has published a new book, titled The Onion Book of Known Knowledge. The Onion has strategically and satirically compiled an encyclopedia full of nonsensical, inaccurate, yet hilariously amusing entries ranging from “Adam and Eve” to “Zoo.” We advise that you not adopt it as an actual resource for new facts.

For all those hoping to find something to rival the size and opulence of Jennifer Aniston’s engagement ring, a 76.02 carat diamond from India — approximately the size of a large strawberry — was recently sold at auction for $21.48 million, well above the expected price. The Archduke’s diamond — named for the post-WWI short-period Hungarian leader — is reportedly the most flawless of this type of diamond to be up for auction.

THE ONION

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the apps that will make you love your favorite gadgets even more

Pocket

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Pocket lets you keep track of everything you find on the Internet. See an article online, but don’t have time to read it right then? Have a funny video you want to show your friend later? Pocket it. You can sync it with your phone, tablet and computer so you have access to your saved items at all times. The good news is that tou don’t even need an Internet connection to read or watch what you’ve already saved.

BREANNA MORET Special to The Hoya

Whole Foods Recipes

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We already love Whole Foods, even with their ridiculous prices. With their recipes app, you can search for recipes based on ingredients or dietary preferences. So whether you’re gluten-free or just need to figure out something to do with that random can of sweet potatoes you have, this app can help point you in the right direction. The app also gives you recommended quantities to buy for each recipe.

11.16.12 | the guide | 3

lifestyle HONORING TRADITION Japanese Martial Arts Creates Community Emily Manbeck Hoya Staff Writer

F

Founded in the late 1940s by Moriocused and poised, the warriors bow to their opponents before hei Ueshiba, aikido is derived from the engaging in a series of attacks. ancient samurai arts but aims at more Dressed in white, robe-like gi and peaceful confrontation.

“The original samurai arts, [like] black-and-blue pleated belts called Aiki-jujutsu, hakamas — trawhich is what ditional Japa“We learn from new people nese fighting aikido directly garments — evolved from, ... [who] deal with things they practice aiall finished evdifferently, so the way you ery technique kido, a martial a killing art that comreact to somebody who’s been with blow. Having bines intense training for years is different.” gone through physical conWorld War II, ditioning with in Manthe philosophy — Drew Reissaus (COL ’06) fought churia and of showing combeen imprispassion towards those intending harm. Though they oned in Manchuria, Morihei Ueshiba are fighting one another, the object thought it was better to not necessarof the conflict is to provoke the other ily kill people — maybe that wasn’t the person to retaliate in ways that are not best option ­— and so he created aikido,” Lance Strahl (MSB ’13) said. destructive.

Strahl, who has trained in aikido since his freshman year of college, is a member of Georgetown University Aikikai, a small, eight-person group that meets three times a week in Riverside Lounge in New South to learn this martial art. The organization has existed for over 20 years and still maintains a close network of current Georgetown students and alums.

“Originally, you weren’t allowed to have student groups that did any sort of activity like physical training that weren’t sports, so basically, [Kiritz] had to find a way to get it by as a nonphysical activity because it wasn’t a sport, either — it’s not like judo where there’s competition and things like that,” Strahl said.

After two years of practicing privately with a group of students, however, Kiritz was able to work with the Student Activities Commission and change the system to permit campus groups like GU Aikikai that engaged in physical activities that were not sports to be officially sanctioned organizations.

Though recruiting new members has been an issue in the past, club members feel that their relatively WATCH AND LEARN Students observe new location in Riverside has led to instructors illustrating techniques and increased and more skilled participation. then learn them step by step.

4 | the guide | 11.16.12

TECHNIQUE IN ACTION Students of aikido learn to defend themselves without causing harm or injury to their opponents.

Drew Reissaus (COL ’06), who still practices with GU Aikikai, explained that when he had joined the club as a freshman in 2003, it was difficult to find a space on campus that was well suited for training in aikido and fostering a committed membership.

“We trained in a couple of different places. We would get room reservations sometimes over in the Leavey Center or in classrooms in the ICC,” Reissaus said. “And as I made it into

my later years here, this space opened up here in Riverside, and it gave us the chance to have a dedicated spot where we could keep mats, which really advanced the ability of the club to train.

And we were able to recruit a lot of people and grow the club as a result of that.”

While GU Aikikai welcomes new members — no previous martial arts experience is necessary — the small size of the organization has allowed

lifestyle for more individual improvement for each member.

“It’s more directed,” Strahl said.

“We can work at a pace that fits everybody, and you can learn at your own speed. It’s not a giant class of 40 people where everyone is flailing about and no one knows what they’re doing and there’s one instructor trying to explain everything.”

At the beginning of their practices, the group stretches and rolls together.

Then, the members work on enhancing more specific skills in smaller groups, like controls through wristlocks.

“Our training is based on the instructor showing a technique, and then, you’ll pair up with someone and work with them on that, and you’ll switch back and forth on the different roles — one person attacking and the other person doing whatever the technique you’re working on, … whether it’s a throw or something else,” Reissaus said.

Kiritz added meditation to his trainings in order to balance the intense exercise of aikido with what Strahl called a “destressing component.”

Kiritz has also found other instructors for GU Aikikai from his network of more experienced students and from the Aikido Shobukan Dojo in Takoma Park, Md., where he serves as a member of the board of direc-

tors. GU Aikikai visits that Dojo a few times each year to practice. The group also takes part in Test Day, an event in which students perform various techniques before judges who determine if they can move to a higher level of training.

As assistant instructor for the club, Reissaus also teaches classes when Kiritz is not available for practices.

In this role, he realizes that one can acquire a more comprehensive knowledge of aikido by practicing with people from various levels of experience.

“You’re seeing people [who] are at the point where you were a while back, not necessarily that long [ago].

But I mean, you’re still showing up, you’re training, you’re learning. …

We learn from new people all the time,and [work] with new people [who] deal with things differently, so the way you react to somebody who’s been training for years is different [from how you deal with] somebody who just comes in off the street,” Reissaus said.

Strahl, who did tae kwon do before coming to Georgetown, felt welcomed

by GU Aikikai saw the group as a chance to further his training in martial arts.

“We’re not a closed group. ... [Aikido is] not all about fighting, it’s a lot about community and health and just generally being active,” Strahl said.

ALL PHOTOS KAYLA NOGUCHI/THE HOYA

INDIRECT CONFLICT Drew Reissaus (COL ‘06) redirects an attacker’s moves to the mat, changing the flow of aggression.

georgetown babel

Losing Figurative Meaning in Literal Translation

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lthough I have dabbled in my fair share of foreign languages — including some Russian and Chinese in high school, followed by a brutal summer of intensive Arabic after my freshman year at Georgetown — Spanish has proven to be at the core of my language-loving heart. To prove my point of just how beautiful this language actually is, I will, of course, use sitcom references.

In the pilot of “Modern Family,” Colombian trophy wife Gloria tries to convince her husband, Jay, to be more accepting of his son by telling him to “be the wind in his back, not the spit in his face.” Jay raises his eyebrows in confusion at these strange words, but when Gloria later reveals what the phrase sounds like in Spanish, none of the family members can contain their “oohs” and “ahs” at how lovely the expression is in its original language.

Yet as charming as Gloria sounds in Spanish, more often than not she’s just butchering English sayings. In another episode, once again in an effort to soften Jay’s crotchety mood, she says, “But I’m nice, and I put on the sugar jacket!” This

is an understandable error, for jacket is can purveyor of baby food has ever been synonymous with coat, after all. And it’s a big hit in France, where gerber means not like Americans don’t make a mess “to vomit.” of everything that comes out of their While all of these flubs are entertainmouths, especially when it comes to in- ing to me, I have the most fun discoverternational business. ing some of the worst-translated (or bestUnless you claim to be a hipster and translated, depending on how you look use some obscure, natural toothpaste at it) English movie titles into foreign then there’s basically languages. There have a 50 percent chance been several humorous that you use Colgate, a translations of Knocked company that initially Up, such as One Night, struggled in marketing Big Belly in China and to Spanish-speaking The Date That Screwed countries because the Me in Israel, but I can brand name can be a only react to Peru’s AllieDoughty colloquial form of “go Slightly Pregnant by hang yourself.” wondering if there are Ever heard of Mensa, that society of varying levels of pregnancy in that geniuses? Well, in Spanish, it means the country. The Matrix became The Young feminine form of “stupid.”

People Who Traverse Dimensions While But mix-ups don’t just occur when Wearing Sunglasses in France. What translating between Spanish and Eng- were the second and third films of the lish. I can imagine that France has trilogy called — that mouthful plus eitaken advantage of the opportunity to ther Reloaded or Revolutions? China ridicule Germany for its naming of the proved to be creative when it turned BooAudi E-Tron, which closely resembles gie Nights into His Great Device Makes etron, the French word for “excrement.” Him Famous and upheld the country’s I can’t imagine that the leading Ameri- knack for accuracy when it changed

the name of The Sixth Sense to He’s A Ghost!, but moviegoers there must have been unimpressed by the ending. Israel stuck to cultural norms when it translated Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs to Rain of Falafel. Italy was spot on when it decided to alter the title of Annie Hall to Urban Neurotic, but let’s be real here: Any movie starring Woody Allen could fit under that name.

I think, however, there is an overall winner in Hong Kong. According to Cantonese, Interview with the Vampire is equivalent to So, You Are a Lawyer, Field of Dreams translates to Imaginary Dead Baseball Players Live in My Cornfield, and Babe becomes The Happy Dumpling-To-Be Who Talks and Solves Agricultural Problems.

Finally, what would a commentary on translation blunders be if it didn’t include Sofia Coppola’s Lost in Translation? Portugal renamed the film Meetings and Failures in Meetings. Lost in translation indeed.

Allie Doughty is a senior in the College. GEORGETOWN BABEL appears every other Friday in the guide.

11.16.12 | the guide | 5

lifestyle

centerstage

A CREATIVE OUTLET

abby keeble Special to The Hoya

Blogger Brings Hilltop Life to the Web You might know Tucker Cholvin (SFS ’15) from around campus as a member of the Georgetown Improv Association, a co-host of “The White Girl Radio Hour” or just that well-dressed guy who occasionally rocks a duck sweater. What you might not know is that Tucker’s varied presence on campus is matched by his equally vibrant presence online. Witty and often hilariously random, Tucker has taken to the blogosphere with “37th and O,” which he describes as his “sandbox” where he can “play around and muse.” A funny, upbeat blog, “37th and O” discusses subject matter that can apply to all Georgetown students. In it, Tucker explores the ups and downs of Georgetown life with sarcastic but usually spot-on commentary, daily musings and appreciation for the beautiful campus and community around us.

What made you decide to write and maintain your blog, “37th and O”?

How would you describe the blog’s content?

“37th and O” emerged out of a blog I kept in high school called “IWPH.” It was started at the behest of my mom when I spent a good part of the summer travelling solo — and to parts [of the world] where it often wasn’t easy to call. The blog allowed me to share photos and keep in touch in a way that wasn’t too trying for a 16-yearold boy whose first priority was not being tied down to his mom. The entire experience was very enjoyable, and it became “37th and O” a few months after moving to Georgetown.

My blog is my sandbox. I play around and muse there. I don’t have a lot of expectations for what ends up being posted so long as I think people will find them interesting. They range from comedy pieces and flow charts that I’ll draw in [my] spare time to super-angsty monologues, which, I’m sure, are just a treat for other people to read.

SPOTLIGHT What’s on your iPod now?

Right now I’m listening to “Everything but the Girl.”

Favorite television show?

“30 Rock” Favorite movie?

The Sound of Music Favorite food?

Frozen blueberries Favorite quote?

“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”

6 | the guide | 11.16.12

Courtesy Jim McCormick Courtesy Jim McCormick

Do you think your blog has influenced others on their opinions of Georgetown happenings or even of social or political rights? Would you say that this is an intended purpose of the blog?

Influencing others’ opinions is] definitely not an intended purpose of the blog; if my writing never holds back, that’s probably more a function of my general inability to keep my trap shut in real life. I don’t seek to influence the opinions of others, with the exception of the endorsements that I post around elections — [it’s] more just to talk. It’s very relaxing, telling other people your thoughts.

Is there anything you do hold back from the blogs or other social media?

I tend not to talk about my love life, due to its nonexistence and the fact that no one ever needs to hear about that stuff from anybody.

DAVID WANG/THE HOYA

ONGOING PROJECT Tucker Cholvin (SFS ’15) started a blog in high school and decided to continue it here at Georgetown with “37th and O.” Where do you think your quirky and much-appreciated style of humor and sass arise from?

A desperate need for validation stemming from a deep personal sense of insecurity. Work out if that’s a joke or not.

How have your writing skills been cultivated over the years?

The only way to get good at writing —­ and I don’t say that I’m good — is to practice. If you really want to read some

gems, go back on the blog to about 2010. That’ll keep you entertained. My writing has improved since then, and it’s largely due to practice.

How have you learned to make something as uninteresting as the airport entertaining?

If I’m able to find entertainment in mundane things like airports, it’s probably because it’s easier to be amused with frustrating things than irritated by them. Ridiculousness is everywhere; I take time to appreciate it.

lifestyle surviving endless summer

Letting Loose With a New Song and Dance

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hose who know me well know that I love to dance. I trained in classical ballet, jazz and modern from elementary school to high school, but since entering college, this passion has turned into more of an enjoyment of making a fool out of myself.

Not to humblebrag, but I’ve been told I’m a pretty talented dancer.

However, while I take great pleasure in getting down to some Beyoncé, I often feel more at home whipping out my arsenal of ridiculous music video dances. Loyal readers, I am about to share a secret with you that, up until this moment, only my closest friends have known: I can Dougie. And, if I’m going to be honest, I’m pretty good at it.

Before going abroad, I would whip out that and a couple other good moves — LMFAO’s signature shuffle was a favorite — whenever those songs would come up on the playlist. You would think that being a small, white girl who stands out at pretty much every party or bar in Costa Rica, I would

try not to call attention to myself. Even me for my ethnicity, I should give them at Georgetown, I tend to be a wallflow- something to watch.

Honestly, bad dancing is liberating. er when I don’t know the majority of the people in the room, preferring to Its fun, and I don’t mind if people talk to my friends as we keep to our- are looking at me. If they are, they’re selves. While abroad, however, I have probably thinking either “That girl is really funny,” (true) or “That girl thrown caution to the wind.

Almost immediately upon arriv- is a huge freak” (double true). But perhaps the best thing ing in Costa Rica, I was about both of those taught the Bernie, also sentiments — and about known as the dumbest bad dancing in general dance move ever. It’s hard — is that no one ever to explain, but it involves tries to grind up on me. “holding your head back As I implied before, I’m like there’s a nosebleed MariahByrne always up for a nice rencoming through.” I’ve dition of Lil Jon & the also picked up some other prime American dances, includ- East Side Boyz’ “Get Low.” What I do ing the Wop and the Wobble, both of not appreciate, however, is the idea which I’m proud — or maybe ashamed that because I am moving my hips, — to admit that I have performed in you get to press yours against mine. public. My friends and I also work it out No. That is not how that works.

To me, dancing is a stress release. with some self-taught choreography to “Danza Kuduro” and “Ai Se Eu Te Pego,” It’s something that I do to let off some two songs that are played everywhere steam. Some people run, some people we go. Whether I’m alone or in a group play soccer and some people play an of other girls, I look like a fool all the instrument, but I grew up dancing. In time. I figure, if people already notice all these cases, whatever people do to

The Five Travellers You’ll Meet This Break

LEONEL DE VELEZ/THE HOYA

SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

FORBES.COM

express themselves is something that they care about and a skill they take time to develop. Maybe it’s weird that I develop my skill by watching YouTube videos of bad hip-hop songs, but it’s something I enjoy.

And I think everyone could find the same pleasure I do in looking like a freak on the dance floor. At least take the time to teach yourself moves from one ludicrous music video.

There are almost an infinite number to choose from — the Chicken Noodle Soup, the Jerk and the beloved Soulja Boy. I promise you will make friends if you perform any of these; I know from experience. At least I have made people laugh at me, which I always interpret as a sign of affection. Either way, I’m having a good time.

Now, in the words of J. Dash, “I better wop out of here. I’ll see y’all tomorrow.”

Mariah Byrne is a junior in the School of Foreign Service. SURVIVING ENDLESS SUMMER appears every other Friday in the guide.

Victoria Edel Hoya Staff Writer

RUHLBLOG.COM

FANPOP.COM

The Freshman

The old man

THE yopro

the family

the stuck-up girl

It’s her first time going home, and you can tell.

She made sure to wear her Georgetown sweatshirt, her suitcase is much bigger than it needs to be for a few days at home and she gives off a general air of confusion that lets you know she’s a little overwhelmed. Once she reaches her seat, she’ll throw on her headphones and whip out a giant book, as if she thinks Thanksgiving break is actually a good time to get homework done.

When she wakes up at the end of her trip, she’ll realize what a poorly thought-out plan that was.

Maybe he’s traveling to see his kids, or maybe he’s returning from a business trip, but there will always be a slightly lonely old man who tries to talk to you. Sometimes he’s sweet, inquiring about the sticker on your laptop or how excited you are to eat your mom’s food again, but other times he’s a little self absorbed and looking for someone to pontificate to. He might give you unsolicited career, educational or personal advice, so watch out. In general, old men travelling with their wives are a little more cheery and less didactic than their solo peers.

These young professionals who find the word “yuppie” a little dated will be in migration this season as they return home for some holiday cheer, but with a general aura of dread. Maybe they’re headed to the airport/train station right after work, and they’re still rocking the business-casual look. If you sit next to one, expect him to not look up from his laptop or iPhone as he tries to look as busy as possible. If you happen to engage one in conversation, he’ll tell you all about his college years and abruptly end the conversation to return to a “really important work project.”

No one wants to travel with children. Their tired parents’ll have brought books, candy and games to try to keep their unruly offspring occupied, but it probably won’t work. The group will hastily run around, inevitably late because of their children’s shenanigans, and there may be more than one crying child. Although parents will be annoyed at the kids for most of their journey, you’ll get to smile at some cute babies and chat with some precocious 4-yearolds. When they annoy you, just turn up the volume and give thanks for Steve Jobs.

The moment she has her Vera Bradley duffle stored safely away, she will plop down next to you with a scowl on her face. Like you, she won’t be able to stop messaging people, but it’s probably to complain about how lame this trip is.

On her laptop she’ll watch multiple episodes of “Gossip Girl” or a Katherine Heigl romcom, but she’ll never crack a smile. Should you make eye contact, don’t expect any sort of acknowledgement or joy — you’ll forget for a moment that you’re heading home for a good reason. You’re best off avoiding conversation and nodding off.

11.16.12 | the guide | 7

A Campus Divided

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peter brigham Hoya Staff Writer

or Georgetown itself, the war had proven to be the most serious threat to its survival as an institution.” So wrote history professor emeritus Fr. R. Emmett Curran, S.J., of the American Civil War in his book, A History of Georgetown.

As soon as the fall of Fort Sumter McLaughlin, a student from New York heralded the start of the war, students who studied at Georgetown between from the North and the South disap- 1851 and 1862, wrote about the compeared from classrooms and residence motion the debate caused.

“It was getting on war time and evhalls to join the fight. But even before that point, the campus was caught up eryone was in a belligerent mood. Our in the same tensions that had swept debate that night was particularly stormy,” McLaughlin recorded in his the nation.

In some respects, Georgetown’s Civil book, College Days at Georgetown and War story is a microcosm of the na- Other Papers. “The climax was finally tion’s: The fight caused tremendous reached, and a scene followed not undisruption to the normal rhythm of like some of those then frequently oclife on campus, divided the college curring in Congress — free fight. Bill community and entirely altered the Hodges, of Mississippi, who sat next to face of Georgetown as an institution. me, sprang at the vice-president of the At the time of the war’s outbreak, Society, James Owen Martin of LouisiGeorgetown College was a small, all- ana, Jack Gardiner of Maryland rushed male institution composed of not only at me … and many other Philodemics a postsecondary liberal arts college were mixed up in the melee in extribut also a comprehensive preparatory cable confusion.” school. Little separated the students of The fight didn’t end Fr. John Early, the two establishments, meaning that S.J., then president of the university, in 1860 one could bump into a student turned out the lights in the Philodemwho was anywhere between 12 and 21 ic room. He forbade the society from years old. meeting for the remainder of the acaIt was among the older, postsecond- demic year. ary students that the war caused the When Abraham Lincoln was electgreatest divide. Many came from the ed in 1860, the mood on campus beSouth, some came decidedly from slave-ownFr. John “Our debate that night was tenser. ing families.

Gilmary Shea, particularly stormy. The S.J., a Jesuit According to Curran’s book, climax was finally reached, historian who some of these the and a scene followed not witnessed students even war first hand, unlike some of those then wrote in his kept a personal slave with them frequently occurring in 1891 book, Meon campus. morial of the Congress — free fight.”

Thomas J. CaulFirst Centenary field, a music of Georgetown professor and — J. Fairfax McLaughlin, College, that organist at the initial seon the Philodemic debate the school, wrote cession of seven on southern secession southern states “Grand Secession March” following Linwhich became a rallying song for the coln’s election appeared to put the fuSouth Carolinians ,while many of the ture of the school in jeopardy.

Jesuits at the college had been writing “When the Southern states resolved letters and articles against slavery in to secede, and the border states showed the years leading up to the war. a determination to join them, the danThe strains were evident at campus gerous condition of the whole country events. On Dec. 18, 1859, the Philodem- sensibly affected Georgetown College,” ic Society debated the topic of whether he wrote. “It had always received many the South should secede. J. Fairfax pupils from the Southern states, and if

WAR HEROES Fr. John Early, S.J., left, was president of the university during the war, while Fr. Joseph O’Hagan, S.J., right, served as a military chaplain. the border states cast their fortunes with the South, its position would be one of probable danger.”

Once the war got underway, Georgetown found itself at the center of the conflict. The District remained the Union capital and the seat of extensive military strategizing and national policymaking during wartime, and although the city was never threatened by a battle, residents of the city maintained near-constant vigilance. With much of the fighting concentrated in the mid-Atlantic region and the northern states of the Confederacy, Georgetown was not far from the battlefields — and Virginia, home to the capital of the Confederacy, was just across the river.

In his book, McLaughlin recalls listening to the tumult at Battle of Bull Run early in the war. He stood with Early on the back porch of the “Old Building,” now known as Old North.

“At short intervals we heard the ominous roar of distant cannon, which perceptibly grew more distinct as the afternoon advanced, presaging the defeat of General [Irvin] McDowell,” he wrote of the Union commander who

led the forces to defeat at the first Battle of Bull Run. “We saw the horsemen over near Arlington galloping like mad towards Washington, and constantly increasing in numbers, and heard guns as the afternoon waned thundering louder than ever.”

At that point, McLaughlin said that Early turned to him and said, “The tide of battle tends this way. The Union forces evidently have met with a serious reverse. They may be in here before night. God help the poor sufferers, both Northern and Southern. If they come, every bed in the College shall be turned over to the wounded.”

Washington was noticeably militarized during the war, as the Union army placed a priority on defending the capital. Army units from throughout the North streamed into the region to ensure that the city was adequately defended.

But the robustness of such military activity put many Georgetown students in a somewhat awkward position — especially after a Union regiment was stationed at the campus in May 1861. According to then-faculty member Fr. Martin Whelan, S.J., the regiment’s arrival

was punishment for an incident that happened a few weeks before.

“One afternoon, after class, about five o’clock, Fr. James Clark, S.J., first prefect of the senior students, learned that the students intended to express their dislike of the war proceedings against the South, and they burned Mr. Lincoln, the President, in effigy. …

[Clark] started to tear down the sheet on which a coarse caricature of Abraham Lincoln had been drawn; but it was too late: It was already burning and in a few minutes, it was consumed,” Whelan wrote in his diary. “It created quite a stir among the government officials who loudly condemned such a proceeding. … Very soon after, the New York regiment was quartered at the College.”

The arrival of the regiment was just the latest in a string of incidents that marked the campus’s conversion from a place of learning to something more resembling a military base.

Starting in the fall of 1861, enrollment dropped precipitously. Some students left to join the Union or Confederate armies, and on April 10, 1861, 10 of the 11 members of the class who were supposed to graduate that spring wrote a letter to Early to explain that they would be withdrawing from Georgetown in order to return home to the South.

“Our presence here any longer would be attended but with little good to us, for we are giving utterance to a plain and undisguised truth when we say that there is not one amongst us who is now able to devote that time, interest, energy and requisite spirit to the pursuits of the class while all we have most dear on earth, our country [the South], our parents and our brethren call loudly upon our presence at our respective homes,” they wrote.

Two days later, the attack on Fort Sumter prompted worried parents to pull their sons out of Georgetown in even greater numbers. Four of the 10 seniors from the graduating class of 1861 went on to enlist in the Confederate Army. Eleven members of the previous year’s graduating class enlisted, nine on the Confederate side, two for the Union. A total of 178 students dropped out, 71 of them to enlist.

The mass enlistment took its toll. A total of 106 students were killed in the fighting. One student who left campus but did not enlist, James Ryder Randall, a Louisiana native who strongly supported secession, wrote the following in part of a poem to one of his fallen classmates: “When the Southern bullet sang the knell / Of the ravaging invader, / Then, then triumphantly he fell, / Our spotless young Crusader.”

According to statistics in Curran’s text, the college’s enrollment dropped to just 50 students by the fall of 1861; before the war, it had been around 300.

This under-enrollment put financial strain on the college, which raised its

annual tuition from $200 to $325 dur- unteers, and that all we people who ing the war period. Georgetown was occupied the small boys’ side of the less able to provide financial aid and street would have to clear out bag and was forced to take on debt. The school baggage to the opposite building [Old North],” he wrote. “Then you should was on the brink of collapse.

Meanwhile, space in the college’s have seen the tearing up of desks, the classroom buildings no longer filled by pulling out of beds, bed clothes, chairs, students was repurposed for military etc. In about two hours, the entire use. On top of the quartering of the building was emptied of everything, a job which at 69th New York regiment, Early “The tide of battle tends another time have made space this way. The Union forces would consumed two available for an evidently met with a serious or three days’ on-campus military hospital reverse ... God help the poor labor.”

The influx and another at sufferers, both Northern of soldiers to a Georgetowncampus gave owned villa in and Southern.” faculty a new Tenleytown, on Jesuorders from the — Fr. John Early, S.J., purpose. its like Fr. Jofederal governon the occasion of the seph O’Hagan, ment.

Not all of First Battle of Bull Run S.J., ministered to wounded these efforts were greeted with enthusiasm by facul- soldiers while members of the school’s ty: Fr. Bernard E. McMahon, S.J., wrote medical department responded to a letter to his friend in Boston in 1861, Lincoln’s call for surgeons to aid the wounded in hospitals and on the batdenouncing the changes on campus.

“Even we at the college have turned tlefield. The medical department was soldiers, rise at the reveille [bugle call] the only one at Georgetown whose and go to bed at the sound of the tat- enrollment actually rose during the too. The cause of this? Last Saturday course of the war.

Georgetown’s touch on the historiat four o’clock, while engaged in class and elsewhere, we were informed that cal period extended beyond the war’s the college was to be occupied at seven end. Three of the men indicted in the [o’clock] by a portion of the N.Y. Vol- plot surrounding President Lincoln’s

assassination — Samuel Mudd (C ’55) set John Wilkes Booth’s broken leg as he escaped, David Herold, who was found hiding with Booth, and Samuel Arnold, another conspirator — had attended Georgetown College in their youth. All three were convicted, and Herold was hanged for his crime.

Georgetown had not suffered any physical damage by the war’s end, and unlike many peer institutions, the school was able to remain open throughout the conflict. Still, reconstituting the college community presented a formidable task. The administration had to bring students back to campus, heal wartime division and bitterness and determine the future course of the college as one of the region’s few surviving Jesuit schools.

It was after the war that the university designated blue and gray as its colors in a showing of unity between the Union and Confederacy. Later in his memoir, McLaughlin — the same student who stood with Fr. Early listening to the progress of the Battle of Bull Run four years earlier — reflected on the impact of what he called “the great upheaval.”

“Those same collegians sprang to arms in deadly war, some on the Northern side, more on the Southern side, the Blue and the Gray torn asunder only to blend again in fraternal union.”

ALL PHOTOS COURTESY GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES

FROM BOOKS TO BATTLE The 69th Regiment of the New York State Militia, pictured above, was housed for a time at Georgetown, partially as punishment for anti-Union demonstrations that occured on campus.

food&drink

Now It’s Just a Salad That I Used to Know

VICTORIA EDEL Hoya Staff Writer

F

ull disclosure: I love Sweetgreen.

When I lived in LXR my sophomore year, I got a salad from the M Street staple at least once a week. (For the record, the March salad was my favorite salad of the month; I indulged in “Pickle Madness” at least seven times in four weeks.)

In general, I find people who have obsessive feelings about salad to be really weird, but Sweetgreen deserves the admiration it has received from the Georgetown population. Their salads are delicious and filling and provide most of the vegetables I eat in any given week. (That’s life as a journalist, I guess.)

So cue my shock, awe and horror when a trip a couple of weeks ago to my favorite eatery revealed a new menu. They’ve removed the curry gold and bondi salads, and they’ve tweaked the Caesar and Cobb salads. They’re also nursing a pretty large kale obsession, letting the leafy green work its way into many of the salads in attempts to make them healthier. Is this the world we live in? We have to make salads healthier?

The question, of course, is whether the changes actually amount to improvements. In this case, I’m going to have to cling to the cliche that if it isn’t broken,

you shouldn’t fix it. I mean the menu is still fine, but I can’t help but wonder why they changed it at all.

Let’s start with the two new salads, earth bowl and misoba. Earth bowl takes advantage of the grains that Sweetgreen has been trying to incorporate into its menu since January. So, you have warm grains like quinoa and couscous (and some that I can’t identify) in addition to arugula, chicken, white cheddar, tomatoes, corn, broccoli and pesto vinaigrette.

The first problem with this salad is that you need to get a lot of dressing or you won’t taste any of it — between the grains and the special cardboard bowl this salad comes in — most of the delicious goodness will get sopped up. As someone who uses the bread that comes with every salad to consume the leftover dressing, this was a pretty sad realization. The second time I got this salad — did I mention that I go to Sweetgreen a lot? — I asked for the “heavy” amount of dressing, which helped it out.

As a vegetarian, I’ll share with you the lesson I’ve recently learned — you can’t just substitute tofu for chicken when there’s cheese involved. Cheddar cheese and tofu are not a good combination,

SHEENA KARKAL/THE HOYA

LETTUCE EAT Sweetgreen, the popular salad chain on M Street, has changed its menu of salads, tweaking some and adding others, such as earth bowl.

10 | the guide | 11.16.12

and they’re basically the same color, which led to some confusing mouthfuls.

That may be more because of my inability to tell white blocks of food apart than it is any fault of Sweetgreen, but it’s still something to keep in mind.

It’s a fine salad — I’ll probably get it again — but it seems to fall short in light of that which it replaced, the curry gold. With dried cranberries, toasted almonds and a pineapple dressing, the curry gold stuck out because it was unlike any other salad I’d ever had. Earth bowl, even though it has those unconventional grains, feels much too ordinary and could be a salad you could get anywhere else.

The other new salad, misoba, could never be described as ordinary. It mixes mesclun lettuce — but really, can anyone tell different type of lettuce apart?

— soba noodles, avocado, corn, carrots, seeds, cilantro, miso sesame vinaigrette and sriracha to create one of the most ingenious salads in the history of salad. I don’t know who thought of putting noodles in a salad, but that person is much smarter than I am. The avocado, sriracha and the miso sesame vinaigrette complement each other insanely well and the sriracha provides an awesome kick, but that’s something I had already learned with the forgotten bondi salad.

Oh, bondi. How I miss you. Honestly, it was a pretty similar to misoba except for the hearts of palm and wasabi peas.

I had never eaten a heart of palm or a wasabi pea until this salad, but they were both deliciously utilized to create a tangy, crunchy masterpiece. It was my first Sweetgreen love, and I sorely miss its presence. The other good thing about bondi was that it came with protein, so when I substituted tofu for chicken, it cost less than adding tofu altogether.

Misoba is the same price without this essential part of free substitution.

Which wins the battle though, misoba or the bondi? Maybe it’s just my sentimental memories of a salad I’ve eaten more than a dozen times, but I’m going to have to go with bondi.

That leaves me with the two changes — the Caesar and Cobb salads. The former, now called kale Caesar, is exactly the same except for a lime squeeze and that leafy green addition. My friend who tried it said it was just as good, and it made her feel a little healthier thanks to the kale, so I guess that’s good. Derby Cobb is now District Cobb — I suppose in ode to the business’ start in Washington.

It swaps bleu cheese for goat cheese, has

FILE PHOTO: CHRIS BIEN/THE HOYA

SHEENA KARKAL/THE HOYA

an agave Dijon dressing instead of honey Dijon and adds corn to the combination of bacon, avocado, egg and tomatoes (Apparently the guacamole greens’ lime-cilantro viniagrette now has a jalapeno addition). And, of course they’ve given District Cobb some kale.

Do people really like kale? I find it doesn’t really taste like anything. When did our lettuce choices get so trendy?

Anyway, I’m not sure the Cobb salad needed this revamp, but it got it anyway.

If you don’t visit Sweetgreen regularly, you probably won’t notice much of a change. But if you’re a perennial consumer —which, let’s be honest, a lot of Georgetown students are — you might be thrown for a bit of a lurch. Your wallet will feel a little lighter, too, as many of the prices seem to have gone up. In time, I hope these salads will feel like essential parts of a well-crafted menu and we’ll forget this dark time.

food&drink

Greek Eatery Packs Bringing the Farm, Sea Small Plates With Taste And Oven to Your Table breanna moret Special to The Hoya

jaclyn proctor Hoya Staff Writer

C

T

ava Mezze is one of my most food comes out as it’s prepared, so recent discoveries, and I ad- we received our order incrementally mit that I’m a little obsessed. throughout the meal. This system acI heard about Cava through word of tually made for a nice experience bemouth, which is how it has become cause it allowed me to try one dish and one of the most popular restaurants savor it before moving on to the next.

We started off trying the humin the District. A Mediterranean-style restaurant with a focus on very simple mus and tzatziki dips to go with our and flavorful ingredients, it has been pita bread, and both were excellent. named one of The Washingtonian’s Things really started to get exciting “100 Very Best Restaurants” three when the saganaki came out. A dish years running. “Mezze” refers to the made with kefalograviera cheese, lemon and bransmall plate portions, dy, it is brought which makes this out on a skillet the perfect place for and set on fire in a group outing and front of you. I was gives you a chance skeptical at first, to try a wide range cava mezze but it was impresof dishes from the sive and incredmenu.

527 8th St. SE ibly appetizing.

I visited the locaWe tried the ration on Capitol Hill, cuisine: Greek tatouille, Cava but there are also price: $$$$ Mac ‘n’ Cheese, locations in Clarenlollipop chicken don and Rockville. and chicken souThe dark wood and vlaki. The lollimodern artwork on the walls give Cava Mezze a sophisti- pop chicken is a combination of fried cated yet relaxed atmosphere. The ser- chicken with honey, walnuts and vice was excellent: Our server was both Greek yogurt, and it was my favorite attentive and friendly and supplied an of the entrees we tried. There was endless number of refills to our pita also the chicken souvlaki, which is a basket. Coming right out of the oven, grilled chicken kabob with citrus and the bread is delicious — and you really herbs and, again, it was incredible.

I have started to pester everyone I don’t need to add anything to it — but paired with an order of its best-selling know, asking multiple times if they’ve been to Cava and if they haven’t, I go hummus, it made for a winning dish.

I was eating dinner with a friend on and on and on about it. But since I who’s a big fan of Cava, and she in- learned of the place by word of mouth, formed me of some of her favorites to I feel it’s my duty to keep spreading the help me with my own decision mak- Cava love. I hope that next time you’re ing. However, she assured me that feeling adventurous, you’ll check out literally everything on the menu was Cava and let them know I sent you — good — and now, after eating there, I I’ll hopefully be best friends with the don’t find that hard to believe. The chef by then.

his weekend, Farmers Fishers Bakers held its grand reopening on the Georgetown waterfront. The restaurant, formerly known as Farmers & Fishers, closed for extensive renovations after flooding in the Washington Harbour in 2011 and is the sister restaurant of D.C. hotspot Founding Farmers.

The restaurant lives up to its name, providing an extensive menu with a focus on seasonal ingredients, eclectic flavors and sustainability. The restaurant’s scenery is as unique as its menu; a heated outdoor patio provides a prime view of the ice skating rink, and an open bakery allows the smells of hearty bread and fresh baked goods to waft throughout the dining room.

Paintings on the walls vary in subjects from famous quotes to a recipe for southern biscuits. Everywhere you look is something new and quirky.

The menu offers something for everyone from seasonal salads and pizza to jambalaya and meats. It took me 15 minutes just to narrow down my top options. I finally selected potato planks and the purple and black kale salad as my appetizers. The potato planks were thick and crispy — almost like French fries — with a light drizzle of honey and two different dipping sauces to accompany the dish. The kale salad, lightly dressed and topped with rhubarb and roasted nuts, was almost big enough to be its own entree.

YELP.COM

KEEP IT SIMPLE Farmers Fishers Bakers serves up unadulterated and seasonal favorites.



YELP.COM

MERRY MARINADE Cava Mezze prepares meals with simple, tasty seasonings like salt, pepper and oregano.

 farmers fishers bakers 3000 K St. NW cuisine: American price: $$$$ As part of my main course, I tried the St. Louis thin-crust pizza. Topped with meatballs and a hearty cheese blend, this pizza was rich without being heavy. The pizza was just the right size to serve a single person but to also allow friends at the table to steal a few bites. For my actual entree, I ordered two sushi dishes off the chef’s tasting menu: the FFB Tuna and the Wonder Jack Tiki. Unlike a typical sushi roll, these dishes were riceless. Thin slices of fruit separated fresh tuna and white fish, and each was topped with different sauces and fruit garnishes.

Now the best part: dessert! Farmers Fishers Bakers has a seemingly endless dessert menu, with options ranging from decadent devil’s food cake to spiced apple crisp. My friends and I ordered the devil’s food chocolate cake and dulce de leche cake to share.

Each was accompanied by a scoop of ice cream — peppermint and secret breakfast, respectively. The peppermint ice cream was creamy and gave a cool burst of flavor that paired perfectly with the velvety, thick and rich chocolate devil’s food cake. And what is secret breakfast ice cream, you ask? From what I could gather, it is vanilla ice cream mixed with cereal — an odd, but surprisingly good, combination. In addition, the dulce de leche cake was warm and rich with a soft, decadent center. It was the perfect ending to a great meal.

I should note that the service was not up to par; everyone’s dish was served at a different time — with significant lag time — preventing a cohesive meal. This is probably due to the learning curve of opening a restaurant and will surely be corrected.

Farmers Fishers Bakers is a delightful and affordable addition to the waterfront’s culinary offerings, and it is sure to become a staple for the Georgetown community.

11.16.12 | the guide | 11

food&drink

A FESTIVE FEAST

sarah kaplan Hoya Staff Writer

Cook for Yourself This Thanksgiving So you’re not going home for Thanksgiving. Ticket prices were too high, you live in a foreign country or your parents love you enough not to force you to sit through a multiple-course meal with 15 members of your extended family.

Just because you’re missing out on the annual political debate between Uncle Mark and Grandpa Fred and you won’t be feeding Great-Aunt Sophie’s inedible kugel to the dog under the table doesn’t mean you can’t be having a Thanksgiving feast of your own next Thursday.

If you’re one of those Georgetown students who will be making his own meals next week, the following recipes are for you. I’d tell you how to cook the turkey, but I’m sure you wouldn’t find a vegetarian’s tips too helpful. If you’re really lost, a turkey sandwich might be your best best.

pumpkin cake INGREDIENTS 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened 1/3 cup granulated sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup milk 2/3 cup bittersweet chocolate (optional)

1 cup dark brown sugar 2 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon ginger 1/4 teaspoon allspice 2 eggs 1 1/4 cups pumpkin puree 1/4 cup heavy cream

curried coconut carrot soup INGREDIENTS 1 cup carrots, chopped into two-inch pieces 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 onion, diced 1 clove garlic, grated 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated 1 1/2 cups vegetable stock 1/4 cup coconut milk juice of one lemon 2 tablespoons cumin 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Toss the carrots with olive oil and roast for 20 minutes or until the carrots can be pierced with a fork.

Meanwhile, saute onions, garlic and ginger in a pot over medium heat.

Add carrots and vegetable stock to pot. Simmer until the carrots are cooked through and soft. Allow the soup to cool.

Pour the contents of the pot into a blender and blend until smooth. Add more liquid if necessary.

Pour soup back into the pot, stir in coconut milk, lemon juice and spices. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Butter and flour a large Bundt pan (or line a large 12-cup cupcake tin).

In a medium-sized bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, spices and salt.

In a large bowl, mix together the butter and sugars until creamy. Add eggs one at a time.

Alternately add half a cup of the flour mixture and 1/4 cup of the buttermilk to the butter-sugar-egg mixture. Stir in the pumpkin puree.

Pour the batter into the Bundt pan (or the cupcake tin). If using a cupcake tin, top each cupcake with a pecan.

Bake for 40-50 minutes (more like 20 minutes if using a cupcake tin) or until a fork inserted into the middle of the cake comes out clean.

Optional: If you’re like me, dessert isn’t really dessert without chocolate. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until simmering. Pour the cream into a bowlful of the chocolate chips and stir vigorously until the chocolate is thoroughly melted and the ganache has a glossy texture. Pour over the cake.

12 | the guide | 11.16.12

ALL PHOTOS SARAH KAPLAN/THE HOYA

arts&entertainment Students Stage the Civil War

L

eave it to Georgetown to use the holiday season as a chance to give students a history lesson. Originally debuting in 2008, “A Civil War Christmas” was written by Pulitzer Prize-winner Paula Vogel and is currently being featured with professional casts in Chicago and New York City. Georgetown will be home to the student-run D.C. premiere. Nomadic Theatre’s new musical, which integrates various Christmas carols and Civil War ballads into the show, transports viewers back to a wartorn and beleaguered Washington, D.C. on Christmas Eve 1864. Familiar faces include Abe and Mary Todd Lincoln, Clara Barton, John Wilkes Booth and Walt Whitman, but the show also seamlessly weaves less historically known figures, such as a mother and daughter escaping from slavery.

“Paula Vogel spins these characters in a way that makes us take a step back and ask the question, ‘Are these really the people we thought we knew so much about?’” actor Luke Funk (COL ’14) said.

Funk plays multiple characters in the performance. The infamous Booth, Funk hints, is preoccupied with other things than assassinating Lincoln, and Lincoln

is tackling marital problems and facing the larger issue of the Civil War. The humanization of the characters highlights the personal conflicts of the main players of the war.

“In the end, everyone is looking for various notions of peace in times of turmoil,” Funk said.

In order to make the play more interactive, a dramaturgical team led by Nina Billone Prieur, a visiting assistant professor in the department of performing arts, has been assembled to create a display in the lobby of the Davis Center for the Performing Arts that includes historical facts about Georgetown and the characters in the show. The display will draw audiences further into the time period as well as show Georgetown’s role in the Civil War. Visitors will also be able to watch the cast and crew’s discussions and reactions to the show.

The production and rehearsal process for “A Civil War Christmas” has been much more involved than those for previous Georgetown performances; casting began at the beginning of the semester, and actors were required to take weekly music classes with music department professor Reenie Codelka to prepare for

the show. In order to maintain the historical feel of the piece, extensive effort has been put into the costumes and props, and the set is built to resemble a 19th century theater.

“Most of the set pieces are two dimensional in order to give a period feel to the play,” said Funk. “The use of various scrims [fabrics to mimic a wall or backdrop] has allowed us to move between the world that is real and the world that is imagined or remembered.”

Audiences should look forward to the inventive use of the stage and the multiple actors take; each cast member plays several of the characters in order to create an ensemble piece in which the diversity of the views and experiences are explored. Perspectives from both Union and Confederate soldiers, thwarted assassins and former presidents are all featured.

The cast feels that there’s something special about performing the show here, considering the role Georgetown played in the war.

“It has been incredible to walk around campus, admiring all these places that were and are so important,” producer Tenaya Campbell (COL ’13) said. “It feels

KIM BUSSING Special to The Hoya

GU DEPARTMENT OF PERFORMING ARTS

HOLIDAY HISTORY LESSON Nomadic Theatre has replicated a 19th century theater for its new production. a bit like we’re bringing the story home.”

“A Civil War Christmas” promises to offer an alternative to traditional winter musicals, as well as the perfect way to simultaneously study for your American history final and get into the holiday mood.

The performance will run from Nov. 17 to Dec. 8 in the Davis Center. Tickets are $10 for students on Friday and Saturday nights and $8 on Thursdays and Sundays.

take it from a senior

Normal is Boring: Set Your Inner Weirdo Free

W

hen starting off in a new place full of strange people, nobody ever wants to be the weird one. But over the last few years, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that being a total and complete weirdo is wholly underrated.

When I first arrived at Georgetown, I made every effort to come across as normal. Forced to dress myself without a uniform for the first time in 12 years, I created my own uniform composed of inoffensive V-necks and jeans.

I pretended to enjoy running so that I could join groups making their way to Yates. I studied when everybody else studied, went to Leo’s when everybody else went to Leo’s and got drunk when everybody else got drunk.

Being that normal all the time is exhausting. It’s easy to waste a lot of time and energy trying to fit in; you have to constantly monitor your surroundings to know the right thing to say or do. I spent most of freshman year worried that my new friends would find out exactly how much of an oddball I actually

am, and I put a lot of work into being ed to slip through the cracks — it’s inevpart of the group. itable when you bottle up an aspect of According to my parents, indepen- your personality for long enough. I was dence has always been my defining surprised to find that it didn’t scare characteristic. As a toddler, I would people away. That small bit of encourwriggle out of my mom’s grasp to agement made me more comfortable explore the nearest swing set or dog in my own skin and helped me realize park, just because it was there. I once that everyone is a little bit weird in his climbed out of a bathown way. room window to reach That’s what makes a jungle gym, because life interesting. Would it seemed like the most you ever want to be depractical route at the scribed as the most nortime. But freshman mal person around? year, you wouldn’t catch — that person MichelleCassidy Nope me climbing through sounds super boring. any windows — unless Find the friends that half of my floor had climbed out be- you can be your realest, strangest fore me. self with. The kind of people that But pretending to be someone you will not only go to a Renaissance fesaren’t never works out well. (Haven’t tival with you but also dress up and you seen Mean Girls or The Little Mer- get way too excited about the joust. maid?) I found myself acting like the The people that will sing along to kind of person I normally disliked, but the “Game of Thrones” theme song I didn’t want to act differently for fear as if it were performed by cats. The people that will stay up until 3 a.m. of losing my new friends.

Eventually, though, my quirks start- reading about grizzly bears to cheer

you up after a bad night.

These are the people and the stories that will stay in your mind. When I think about my freshman year, I can tell you that I felt awkward and lonely, but I can’t tell you many specific stories. Until you embrace your quirks for what they are, you won’t be able to find the people whose personalities overlap with yours in the strangest, most unexpected, but best ways.

Don’t be afraid to be weird. The people that will judge you for that aren’t important. The people that really matter are the ones who will not only accept your oddities but also hear your llama noises and raise you a seal clap.

Georgetown is a bigger school than you think, and you might be surprised by the ways that other people’s peculiarities complement your own.

After all, it’s been said that love is just compatible weirdness.

Michelle Cassidy is a senior in the College. TAKE IT FROM A SENIOR appears every other Friday in the guide.

11.16.12 | the guide | 13

arts&entertainment behind the screens

Ranking the Best Of Television’s Dramas

B

ecause fall shows are well on their way, I thought now would be a good time to rank the top five dramas currently on TV. 1. ‘DEXTER’ I have written about this unconventional show recently, but as the weeks progress and the plot becomes more complex and intriguing — which I didn’t think could be possible — my obsession continues to grow. Now more than halfway into Season 7, our lovable vigilante finds himself surrounded by, or in the center of, conflict in both his personal and professional lives.

The generally inconspicuous serial killer is attracting unwelcome attention, and the path this show will take is bound to make excellent television.

grown both with its target audience and the critics. The story, set in a fantastical yet quasi-realistic world, focuses on the struggles caused by the multitude of claims to the Iron Throne that rules the Seven Kingdoms. The plot focuses on many characters that are connected even if they haven’t yet interacted due to their geographical distance. This scattered way of telling the story makes the show more fascinating and heightens the sense of suspense, because an encounter between characters is inevitable but unpredictable.

5. ‘HOMELAND’ The winner of this year’s primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series has entered its second season, and it looks to maintain its momentum after its debut. This show is about the 2. ‘SONS OF ANARCHY’ frighteningly obscure This show about a part of our lives that biker gang in Caliis homeland secufornia is one I never rity, and it continuexpected to be that ously toys with our interested in. BeEduardoGueiros emotions by encourneath the constant aging us to wonder curses and bloody bouts — and very dark humor — is whether more terrorism could aca story about loyalty in both friend- tually happen. Beyond the plot, the ship and family, which plays on the characters are very well developed well-developed characters and their and provide appealing subplots relationships. Now with a change through their relationships and inin power dynamics and a number ternal conflicts. Although the first of tough decisions to be made, the season truly was fantastic, I have gang promises to deliver yet anoth- “Homeland” ranked here at number five because it still has a lot to er exciting season. prove, and so far, its second season does not seem as promising as the 3. ‘THE WALKING DEAD’ Although gruesome, “The Walking first.

Dead” addresses a variety of familAnother show that probably iar problems within this dysfunctional society. Although violence should be on this list is “Mad Men,” and blood are an undeniably a big but because I am over a season bepart of the show, the appeal of the hind, I felt it would not be fair to plot stems from the surprisingly include it on this list. This is the list quotidian conflicts within the I came up with based on my prefercharacters’ relationships. This dose ences and the shows I watch, and of reality and a zombie-filled world I am curious as to what your lists of fantasy combine to form an en- would be because I am always looktertaining show that blends two ing for new shows to watch. I hope seemingly contrasting elements this one helps do just that, and I encourage you to at least give these a perfectly. try if you haven’t already.

4. ‘GAME OF THRONES’ This book series has been suc- Eduardo Gueiros is a junior in the cessfully transferred to the small College. BEHIND THE SCREENS apscreen, where its popularity has pears every other Friday in the guide.

14 | the guide | 11.16.12

Alum Makes Great Play With New Film BETHANY BLAKEMAN Special to The Hoya

A

fter watching Silver Linings Play- means one thing: game day. Worried that book, I have a newfound apprecia- the void in Pat’s life stemmed from their obtion for tragic comedies, though I session with football, his parents try to condon’t think many will outdo this film nect with him, but Pat is distracted by his anytime soon. Director and screenwriter mission to get his life back to the way it was.

David Russell has created a gripping film Tiffany, a conniving young woman that highlights an omnipresent, yet over- haunted by the death of her husband, gives looked, problem central to modern-day Pat an ultimatum. She promises to help American life: personal psychological strife. him reconnect with his wife, but only if he Often times rooted in familial troubles, helps her with an endeavor of her own. these emotional conflicts plague multiple The energy between Pat and Tiffany is characters in Silver Linings Playbook.The like nothing I have ever seen. They’re both self-proclaimed “nut authentic and relatjobs,” and although able nature of the plot, in conjunction their psychologiwith standout percal problems cause formances by a starthem to constantly studded cast, makes SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK clash, their underlying tenderness is Playbook a standout starring: Bradley Cooper andwhat keeps them movie Jennifer Lawrence Pat Solitano coming back to each (Bradley Cooper other. This realness is [COL ‘97]) lost evwhat makes the film erything: his wife, his home and his job. both dramatic and comedic. The characAfter a stint in a mental institutional, he ters all have their own quirks, which make finds himself back at home with his par- them genuine and altogether more endearents, played by Robert De Niro and Jacki ing. You root for these delusional characWeaver. With an optimistic disposition, ters because their relatable idiosyncrasies he dedicates his time to getting in shape are impossible to resist. and passionately reading his wife’s high Silver Linings Playbook is one of Cooper’s school English class’ reading list in order strongest roles. His character is both earto win her back. His earnest strivings are nest and misunderstood, trying to bounce admirable yet comical largely due to the back from his emotional turmoil, but he fact that they are in vain, and his efforts be- is also a naturally funny guy attempting come even more futile when he meets the to figure out his life. Of course, there are enigmatic Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence). scenes where the context of the movie Pat’s parents, devout Philadelphia Eagles fades and you just want to stare at him, but fans, just want to see him get back on his this role requires a range of abilities and feet. To the Solitanos, Sunday is the most Cooper steps up to the plate. important day of the week because it Lawrence, armed with the same fierce energy she brought to The Hunger Games, demands attention. Her character’s multifaceted personality gives her the opportunity to show the world that she is the talented young actress that she promised to be in her award-winning performance in Winter’s Bone. I’m excited to see where she goes following this strong presentation.

Silver Linings Playbook won a People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival and is a frontrunner for winning more distinctions come awards season. It is sure to get your nod of approval, and it definitely got mine. The beautifully THE WEINSTEIN COMPANY FLIRTY FRIENDS Jennifer Lawrence and executed film reminds you that through all of life’s ups and downs, it’s always best to Bradley Cooper (COL ‘97) light up the find a silver lining. screen with their intense chemistry.

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arts&entertainment

Follow-Up Album Misses Mark New Releases 

Allie Doughty Hoya Staff Writer

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fter doling out such hits as “Basket Case” and “American Idiot,” one might think that a rapid-fire trilogy of albums would be a great idea for the punk rock band that had every teenager of the past two decades belting out “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” and swaying to the tune of “Good Riddance” at high school graduation. ¡Dos!, the second chapter of Green Day’s three-part series, however, is not a good basis for such an argument.

However, when compared to the vibe that I got after listening to ¡Uno!, the first installment released in September, ¡Dos!, which was released Nov. 13, reassures me that the members of Green Day have some inventive material left in them.

The best track of the album is “See You Tonight,” the acoustic opener that unfortunately only lasts just over a minute. The soothing harmonies offer a sound that could be compared to that of Simon and Garfunkel, which is pretty uncharacteristic for a band like Green Day. “F--- Time” and “Stop When the Red Lights Flash” prove to be energetic follow-ups to a solid start, but the generic garage-band feel is bland. Not until “Lazy Bones” does the album pick up again. Its tune is slightly catchier, but most of all, the message seems genuine, even if the lyrics don’t demonstrate the most imaginative songwriting. I believe lead vocalist Billie Joe Armstrong when he sings, “I’m so tired. I can’t take it anymore,” but the band could surely conceive of a more creative way to express boredom than “the silence is so deafening / it’s like picking at a sore.”

After a few more forgettable and grungy tunes is “Stray Heart.” It’s not surprising that this is the album’s first single, as it calls attention to a

Abby reutzel

‘sOUP bOYS (pRETTY dRONES)’ | Heems 

The most recent single from Heems’ highly anticipated new mixtape “Wild Water Kingdom” is a great preview of what he has in store for us: smart rhymes, catchy beats and a dash of irony.

JETLIFEBEATS.COM GREENDAY.COM

A DARING PROJECT Green Day has made three albums in four months with mixed results. beat similar to that in the Supremes’ “You Can’t Hurry Love” while maintaining the punky feel of the album.

“Nightlife” is refreshingly different and one of the most eclectic songs that Green Day has ever recorded. It features guest vocals from rapper Lady Cobra, and, while I don’t care for it, the song is a strong effort.

Then comes “Amy,” a lovely tribute to Amy Winehouse composed shortly after the singer’s death. The track marks the consequences of a hedonistic lifestyle, and it seems fitting for the end of the album, given Armstrong’s recent struggles with alcohol-related problems.

Based on the less-than-stellar ¡Uno! and the considerably improved ¡Dos!, the question of whether or not Green Day reached too high with a trilogy may be answered by ¡Tré!, the final album that will be released Dec. 11. Until then, savor the memories of blasting “Holiday” in your car with the windows rolled down.

‘INHALER’ | FOALS 

The first single from Foals’ newest album, due out in early 2013, is extremely catchy and a joy to listen to. The band retains their usual style of mixing punk and melodic indie rock paired with powerful vocals. If the rest of the album is even half as good as “Inhaler,” we are in for quite a treat this new year.

PITCHFORK.COM

‘BREAKERS’ | LOC 

Local Natives’ first single off of their second album, Hummingbird, is sure to please fans, even though it’s been two years since we last heard anything from these L.A. rockers. “Breakers” sticks to their typical upbeat style, and the backing vocals and harmonizing really make this new single pop.

Forlorn Lyrics Fuel Electric Tunes

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or many electronic music fans, the genre conjures images of lighthearted and fast-paced fun. Fans of Crystal Castles, however, know better.

With songs titled “Wrath of God” and

CRYSTALCASTLES.COM

TUNES OF DARKNESS (III) features Crystal Castles’ trademark pessimistic sound.

Hoya Staff Writer

“Plague,” it may be almost too easy to define Crystal Castles simply in terms of their bleak electro-pop creations.

Instead of synth-tinged songs about dancing in clubs, their lyrics are much darker. Their third full-length album, (III), again features their trademark dark sound and pessimistic lyrics. Unlike their previous, rather convoluted efforts, however, on this new album, the bleak feelings of hopelessness hit a powerful high note.

Since they first arrived on the scene, Crystal Castles has been a purveyor of their own brand of electro-pop music with a goth twist. The group first appeared in 2004 in the Canadian underground circuit, where they began to hone their craft of creating music that was completely new and exciting. When their first full-length album dropped in 2008, the perspective they brought to American music was, in a way, revolutionary and compelling. Fast forward

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to today, and while their style of music has lost some of its freshness and may have many imitators, (III) makes it very clear that Crystal Castles is still a musical force to be reckoned with.

The two members of Crystal Castles impressively spread their wings on this new effort and showcase how much they have grown as musicians in the two years since their last record, (II). While the balance between vocals and electronica can sometimes be hard to find, singer Alice Glass is given her chance to shine on a few tracks, most notably “Affection.” Her voice sounds just as depressing as the lyrics. Her particular style of jumping between aggressive remarks and barely audible whispers works very well and adds extra depth to the already complex track. Producer Ethan Kath, the other half of the duo, has greatly improved since the band’s debut, and the often pixilated tracks like “Kerosene” and “Violent Youth” are

STEREOGUM.COM

Abby Reutzel Hoya Staff Writer an audible testament to the power of a masterfully manipulated synthesizer.

This album definitely has the best production of any of their releases thus far.

The songs lyrics are dark and depressing, and the tension created by pairing such sadness with electronic beats can be jarring at times, but on the whole, it works extremely well. Glass’ vocals add a lot of texture to the songs as well as extra emotion to help convey the feelings of hopelessness and desperation weaved into the words she has crafted. The constant beats and wispy backing vocals also darken the mood of the album and contribute to its ultimate success.

(III) is being released at an appropriate time. Looking around at the current state of the world, it doesn’t seem surprising that Glass and Kath have such a pessimistic worldview coming across in their lyrics. This album manages to make feelings of despair and hopelessness an enjoyable musical experience.

11.16.12 | the guide | 15

bestbets

festival days — olivia hewitt

on campus

Covenant House Solidarity Sleep Out Friday, 6 p.m. — Leavey Esplanade

In order to raise money for Covenant House residents whose shelters were destroyed or damaged during Hurricane Sandy, Georgetown is hosting a Solidarity Sleep Out tonight. Proceeds will go to assisting homeless young adults in Atlantic City, New York City and Newark. Come and see performances from a cappella groups and a movie screening. Register at solidaritysleepout.org

CLIMBING AT SPORTROCK CLIMbING CENTER Friday, 3 to 7 p.m. — Outdoor Education Office

Start your weekend with an adventurous twist by going rock climbing with Outdoor Ed. A van will take those seeking a thrill to Sportrock Climbing Center to learn how to belay, tie knots and rock climb.

Equipment will be provided, and all experience levels are welcome.

Friday Food Friday, 4:30 to 7 p.m. — Hariri 140

Join audit firm KPMG and the GU Accounting Society to help bag dinners for the homeless community of Dupont Circle. Activities will include distributing food and talking with visitors. Part of Hoya Outreach Programs and Education’s Hunger and Homelessness Week, this event will be an opportunity to begin Thanksgiving with community service, and gain insight into the lives of the District’s homeless population.

“KEEP CALM and dance on” Friday & Saturday, 8 p.m. — Walsh Black Box Theatre

Spend your Friday or Saturday night watching GU Dance Company’s Fall show “Keep Calm and Dance On.” With dances ranging from hip-hop to classical ballet, the show features the work of both student and professional cheorographers. Purchase $8 student tickets online at performingarts.georgetown.edu.

around town saturday

friday

sunday

Head over to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center to celebrate the 25th annual Washington Craft Show.

Don’t expect to just find ordinary knickknacks, though.

The show features the products of a number of artisans and professionals whose wares are made of everything from wood to steel wire. It showcases the talent of both local craftsmen and those from outside the Beltway and will feature a number of speakers and book signings.

Celebrate the most famous theatrical rendition of the tale of a common woman turned into a regal beauty with a little outside assistance with George Bernard Shaw’s classic “Pygmalion.” Presented by the Washington Stage Guild, the play tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, who, over the course of the play transforms from a simple flower girl into a society woman with a push and a shove from phonetics professor Henry Higgins.

Sunday marks the final day of FotoWeek, so come out to The Warner to take part in this celebration of photographic art. This multi-purpose event serves not only as an exhibition of some of the best photographs of the year but also as a venue for lectures and discussions of photography. There will also be a competition and display for Instagram photographs for all the aspiring amateur photographers.

WHERE: 801 Mt. Vernon Pl. NW WHEN: All day INFO: craftsamericashows.com PRICE: $15 METRO: Mt. Vernon Square/7th Street

WHERE: 900 Massachusetts Ave. NW WHEN: 2:30 p.m. or 8 p.m.

INFO: stageguild.org PRICE: $20 - $40 METRO: Mt. Vernon Square/7th Street

WHERE: 1299 Pennsylvania Ave. NW WHEN: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

INFO: fotoweekdc.org PRICE: $5 online, $7 at the door METRO: Farragut North

kim bussing & jerrod macfarlane Special to The Hoya