American University’s student voice since 1925
April 4, 2013 Volume 87 – Issue 22
THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
THE NEW FACES OF AU
TEMPORARY SMOKING AREAS
APRIL FOOLS’ EDITION
BASKETBALL COACH TO LEAVE AU
PAGE 4
PAGE 9-12
PAGE 18
2 | APRIL 4, 2013 theEAGLE
COACH JEFF JONES TO LEAVE AU AU men’s basketball Head Coach Jeff Jones will leave AU after 13 seasons to become the head basketball coach at Old Dominion University. Jones leaves after leading The Eagles to two NCAA Tournament appearances. Full story on page 18. PHOTO: COURTESY OF AU ATHLETICS
Events APRIL 12
HISTORY TRIVIA NIGHT
Corrections A March 28 article in The Eagle headlined “McKinley construction progressing faster than expected” incorrectly stated that a media innovation lab would be dedicated to doctoral candidates in the School of Communication. The lab will be open to all students. A March 28 article in The Eagle headlined “Manager fired for selling Girl Scout cookies at Eagle’s Nest” incorrectly implied Bon Appétit Retail Service Manager Tracy Lewis was employed by AU. Lewis has been employed by food vendors, including Bon Appétit. A March 7 article in The Eagle headlined “AU will share Spring Valley emergency shelter plans in April inaccurately stated Army Corps of Engineers was going to place warning systems at Watkins and Kreeger. Instead, they’re placing a warning system at 4825 Glenbrook Road, the site of the cleanup. It also inaccurately said that an investigation of 4825 Glenbrook Road in 2007 found three jars of arsenic trichloride. Instead, it should have said that a 2010 investigation revealed one jar of arsenic trichloride. A Nov. 7 article in The Eagle headlined “Former munitions site to be demolished” incorrectly stated that three jars of arsenic trichloride were found at 4825 Glenbrook Road. Actually, one jar of arsenic trichloride was found. The other two jars found did not contain arsenic trichloride. COVER PHOTOS: JARED ANGLE / THE EAGLE AND ANA SANTOS / THE TALON
APRIL 9
AUSG LGBT TOWN HALL
8 to 10 p.m. / The Student Historical Society will be hosting a night of trivia, food and prizes. Teams of five will compete for the ultimate title of History Trivia Champs. The participation fee is $10 per team. / Butler Boardroom in MGC / To register your team, email the SHS at historysociety@american.edu.
6 to 7:30 p.m. / SG members will be meeting with students to discuss how they can advocate for the LGBT community at AU. / Student Government / Ward Circle 2 / Matt Grossman / matt.grossman@ausg.org
APRIL 6
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. / The conference will analyze political and economic topics within America. / Katzen Arts Center, Abramson Room / Political Theory Institute at AU / alevine@american. edu
AU IN MOTION SPRING SHOWCASE
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. / Members of AU in Motion will perform a variety of styles ranging from hip-hop to contemporary dance. Tickets will cost $7 each. / Tavern / Becca Stern / auinmotion@gmail.com
APRIL 5
THE MORALITY AND FUTURE OF CAPITALISM
NEWS Kogod launches new “We Know Better” marketing campaign By AMBER COHEN EAGLE STAFF WRITER
The Kogod School of Business has developed a new marketing campaign called “We Know Better,” which stems from the University’s 3-year-old “WONK/KNOW” campaign. “All business MBAs are the same? We know better,” begins a 30-second advertisement aired on CNN.com. The new campaign has the same font, color palette and the emphasis on the word “know” as the “WONK/ KNOW” campaign, as it was pulled from the University’s branding campaign toolkit, Assistant Dean of Marketing and Strategy Laura Kline said. “We developed the current campaign to create something supportive of the University campaign, but distinct to allow the business school to stand out in a ver y crowded and competitive marketplace [in graduate business education],” Kline said in an email. An ad for the Kogod graduate program open house previously ran in The Eagle, according to Kline. “This campaign is specifically directly at attracting new prospective students to American University’s Kogod School of Business, so the campaign is focused on external opportunities,” Kline said
in an email. “The campaign is running in outdoor, online, and print opportunities.” The campaign is not limited to promoting master’s of business administration degrees from Kogod, Kline said. All of Kogod’s spring graduate business programs link to the phrase “We Know Better.” The “We Know Better” campaign is receiving positive feedback, she said. “We have experienced positive [web] traffic from the ads and are satisfied with the performance of the campaign so far,” Kline said in an email. Kogod School of Business freshman Janu Sonthi said she had not heard of the “We Know Better” advertising campaign, but said she believes it is due to targeting prospective graduate students rather than all of Kogod. School of Communication Student Ambassador Rachel Landis said she felt the “We Know Better” campaign could be better from a public relations perspective. “If you’re tying the WONK campaign, which is campuswide, into a small community, it just highlights an aspect of the campus,” she said. “If you’re going to spin off of the WONK campaign, expand it to all schools having their own branding not directly linked to WONK.” ACOHEN@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
More Coke machine vandalism in Asbury 5 | “AU Crush” takes over SIS 6
Meet your newest SG officials Election results announced April 3 PATRICK KELLY: PRESIDENT Patrick Kelly was elected as the Student Government president on April 3, earning 49.6 percent of 1,827 total votes. Runner-up David Shadburn received 27.5 percent of the vote. Kelly said he will start a round-
table discussion in the fall as a way to gain input from student groups. He also plans to prioritize financial aid appeals process reform. “I think everyone in this race made people excited about SG again,” Kelly said.
JULIA REINSTEIN: VICE PRESIDENT Julia Reinstein won 73.5 percent of the 1,482 votes cast for vice president. “This is amazing,” Reinstein said. “It’s unreal . . . There are no words to describe this.”
Sleep, laundry and a call to mom are on Reinstein’s immediate agenda, she said. “I’m really excited to work with everyone,” Reinstein said. “It looks like a great team.”
BEN JOHNSON: COMPTROLLER Ben Johnson beat incumbent Comptroller Joe Ste.Marie by 37 votes, 698661, and is the only member-elect not currently serving on the SG Executive Board. “[SG has] the general interests of the student body at heart,” Johnson said. Johnson won 48.9 percent of 1,427 total votes.
ROSEMARY CIPRIANO: SECRETARY Rosemary Cipriano won 89.4 percent of the 1,291 votes cast for secretary. “I’m elated,” she said following the announcement. Cipriano ran unopposed and plans to use focus groups during the 2013-2014 academic year to increase transparency between SG and the student body. ACOHEN@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
“FOSSIL-FREE AU” REFERENDUM FOLLOWING A SEMESTER-LONG CAMPAIGN FROM “FOSSIL FREE AU,” 79.1 PERCENT OF VOTERS ASKED THE UNIVERSITY TO DIVEST FROM INVESTMENTS IN FOSSIL FUELS. REPORT BY: SAM HOGAN, HEATHER MONGILIO, KIERSTYN SCHNECK, DEVIN MITCHELL, AMBER COHEN PHOTOS BY: JARED ANGLE / THE EAGLE
4 | APRIL 4, 2013 NEWS theEAGLE
DASHED LINES MARK TEMPORARY DESIGNATED SMOKING ZONES
ANC commissioner pushes for more bike lanes near campus By LINDSAY SANDOVAL EAGLE STAFF WRITER
ANC 3D10 Commissioner Joe Wisniewski advocated for a proposal about building new bike lanes to help protect pedestrians from traffic accidents at a city council meeting last week. The proposed bike path would add three feet of concrete to existing sidewalks along New Mexico and Massachusetts avenues to provide a safe route for
Tobacco ban to include temporary smoking zones By DEVIN MITCHELL EAGLE STAFF WRITER
The project team writing the tobacco ban policy established three temporar y designated smoking zones that will be in effect from Aug. 15 through Dec. 24. The areas are: t behind the Kay Spiritual Life Center and the Kogod building; t between the Beeghly and Osborn buildings; t the walkway between the School of International Ser vice building and Roper Hall. AU will implement a threestep discipline program to enforce the smoking ban, according to Dean of Students Rob Hradsky.
On the first offense, students who do not obey the ban will be asked to move to another location. On the second offense, they will be given a letter with a description of the policy. A third offense will result in a code of conduct violation. Paid part-time staff and volunteer ambassadors will enforce the policy, according to a town hall held the night the policy was released.
SMOKING ADDRESSED AT TOWN HALL
Hradsky, a co-chair of the committee on the smoking ban, and other administrators faced questions from students indicating skepticism about the strength of the enforcement policy and objecting to
the ban itself at a town hall on March 27. Even some who expressed support for limiting smoking asked questions. What AU would do with students who did not plan to quit smoking and how the surrounding community would handle an increase in sidewalk smoking were among the topics. “I respect one’s right to choose, but we want to keep it off of campus property,” Hradsky said after the meeting. Hradsky hopes to create a culture of not using tobacco products on campus would make heavy enforcement of the policy unnecessary, he said. “Our goal is not be this heavy-handed authority,” he said. NEWS@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
program. Cyclists tend to use the sidewalks on Massachusetts Avenue to avoid conflicts with motorists, Wisniewski said. Wisniewski hopes the D.C. Council will consider building bike paths on New Mexico Avenue sidewalks. Citing errant light poles and large cement cracks, Wisniewski says the sidewalk is hazardous to both cyclists and pedestrians. “It’s a terrible situation, and to expect someone to ride a bike
“I think the blame [for traffic accidents] has to be shared between pedestrians and vehicles. It’s a two-way street, no pun intended” - ANC 3D10 Commissioner Joe Wisniewski
pedestrians, Wisniewski said, a junior in the School of Public Affairs. Councilwoman Mary Cheh, who represents Ward 3 and heads the Committee on Transportation and the Environment, at the meeting seemed to support the proposal as a way to accommodate the needs of pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists. “I suppose you could just be brave and get out there and be in the lane, and [cars] do move pretty quickly,” Cheh said at the meeting, acknowledging that pedestrians and bicyclists often share the sidewalk to travel from Ward to Tenley Circle. Massachusetts Avenue receives heavy traffic from AU students, Department of Homeland Security officials and bicyclists who use the Capital Bikeshare
on that [sidewalk] is ridiculous,” Wisniewski said in an interview. Wisniewski also suggested designating a police officer to direct traffic at Ward Circle, an intersection of two major roads into the city. ANC 3D10 recently convinced the D.C. Council to fund another transportation study that will assess traffic safety in the Tenleytown area, Wisniewski said. Although he warns progress may take up to a decade, he remains optimistic that D.C. Council will take action. “I think the blame [for traffic accidents] has to be shared between pedestrians and vehicles,” Wisniewski said at the committee hearing. “It’s a twoway street, no pun intended.” LSANDOVAL@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
theEAGLE NEWS APRIL 4, 2013 | 5
AU observes Body Image Awareness Week By DAVID LIM EAGLE STAFF WRITER
The AU Counseling Center and Wellness Center are continuing to bring attention to eating disorders on campus by obser ving Body Image Awareness Week from April 2 to 7. National Eating Disorders Month is celebrated during Februar y, but in the past AU has celebrated it the week of the NEDA Walk, according to the AU Counseling Center. According to the AU Coun-
If students are concerned about a friend, being supportive and understanding is one of the most important steps to take, according to Rahimi. The Wellness Center will be hosting an “End Body Bashing” event to bring awareness to the negative influence of self images in the media on April 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in MGC. Students can bring a magazine that promotes body bashing to the table and receive a prize. The AU Wellness Center is also hosting a “Healthy Bod-
“The thing with eating disorders is that it’s tricky sometimes to have students put themselves in other students’ shoes and have them understand what it truly means to struggle with an eating disorder.” -Amanda Rahimi, AU Counseling Center assistant director for outreach and consultation ALEX GRECO / THE EAGLE
Two Coca-Cola vending machines in Asbury were seen vandalized with black spray paint on March 28.
Vandals strike more Coke machines in Asbury By SAMANTHA HOGAN EAGLE STAFF WRITER
Two vending machines were defaced on the first floor of Asbur y Hall on March 28 in a continued string of CocaCola vandalisms. A Coca-Cola and Minute Maid machine were targeted in the most recent Coke vandalism. Black spray paint was
used to place an “X” on the face of each machine and cloud its coin intake mechanism. The vandalism was not listed in Public Safety’s Daily Crime Log as of midnight on April 3. The Department for Public Safety has not commented on the incident as of this time as well. Multiple Coca-Cola machines were vandalized in
Ward, Bender Arena and the Mar y Graydon Center on October 18. Additional Coke machines in Ward and Hurst were vandalized on Jan. 30. Public Safety has been offering a $500 reward since March for the positive identification of a man thought to be linked to some of the vandalism. SHOGAN@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
seling Center, a consistent number of people continue to seek help in order to fight eating disorders on-campus. There have not been any notable fluctuations in the number of students reporting eating disorders at AU, according to Amanda Rahimi, the assistant director for outreach and consultation at the AU Counseling Center. “It seems like our numbers have remained consistent over the years, that consistency reflects the national percentages also of how many people struggle with eating disorders,” Rahimi said.
ies” tabling event in Mar y Graydon Center on April 4 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The AU Counseling Center has a free, anonymous self-assessment eating disorders test available to students on their website if students want to learn more about their eating issues, according to Rahimi. “The thing with eating disorders is that it’s tricky sometimes to have students put themselves in other students’ shoes and have them understand what it truly means to struggle with an eating disorder,” Rahimi said. NEWS@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
6 | APRIL 4, 2013 NEWS theEAGLE
‘AU Crush’ goes off the screen at SIS party By SAM BERMAS-DAWES EAGLE CONTRIBUTING WRITER
EMMA KNIGHT / THE EAGLE
Glenn Weisinger of SOC and Hayat Abu-Ghazaleh of CAS enjoy RHA’s Masquerave event in the SIS Atrium March 29.
Discussions of international policy and foreign aid were replaced by an unfamiliar party atmosphere as students disguised by vibrant masks entered the School of International Service to the sound of a DJ. The Residence Hall Association held the 2013 Masquerave in the SIS atrium on March 29 with around 80 colorfully masked students in attendance. The unknown operator of AU Crush, a Facebook account that posts anonymous messages from AU students to their crushes, was also there. AU Crush has nearly 1,500 friends since its creation six months ago. “The Masquerave gives people the opportunity to participate in an event alternative to what a typical
AU wins SELF Magazine fitness competition By RACHAEL WEISS EAGLE CONTRIBUTING WRITER
SELF Magazine will welcome AU students to the Quad on April 27 to kickstart its 20th annual “Workout in the Park” fitness day event after the University won SELF’s “Workout on the Quad” competition. AU beat out competing schools in SELF’s “Workout on the Quad” social game, powered by HerCampus.com, that rewards a combination of real work and virtual gameplay, according to a press release. More than 100 AU students participated by working out and also making personalized avatars and virtual fitness parks in the game. Her Campus American editorin-chief and founder, Lesley Siu,
a School of Communication senior, is looking forward to the upcoming event. “As an online magazine for collegiate women, our [Her Campus] chapter strives to educate and inform American University students on health, life,
Her Campus chose to participate in the contest because they believe in SELF’s mission to motivate and inspire women to look and feel their best, Siu said. The day feature a day of events including group exercise, food samples, free merchandise, beauty tips and more, according to The Sacramento Bee. “There is something for everyone,” according to SELF’s website. “We’re thrilled that American University, in the heart of our nation’s capital, has won the challenge, and we hope the entire student body and campus community will join SELF and our partner brands for this very unique and exhilarating day!” Laura McEwen, vice president and publisher of SELF, said.
“We’re thrilled that American University, in the heart of our nation’s capital, has won the challenge ...” -Laura McEwen, vice president and publisher of SELF career and style news,” she said. “‘Workout on the Quad’ provides the ideal opportunity for Her Campus and SELF to engage the campus community in leading active lifestyles, and we are delighted to be a part of it.” The University’s chapter of
NEWS@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
night might entail,” Lindsey Malcolm, vice president of programming at RHA, said. The unusual blue and purple lighting in the SIS atrium for the Masquerave could be seen from across the quad. Inside SIS, a DJ stood in front of the dance floor, and the nameless students’ colorful masks adorned with plumage glistened under the lights. “When I look around, how many places can have such a venue, where students can come together and connect in this setting,” Tim Staples, the assistant director of training and leadership development for RHA, said. Students praised the scenery. “It’s cute,” Kathy Kim, a freshman in the SIS, said. “It’s different. It’s not in [The] Tavern.” Prior to the event, students could message the name of their
crush to the Facebook profile “AU Masquerave Messenger.” The crush would receive an invite to the 2013 Masquerave anonymously, according to a post on the Masquerade Messenger page. The Facebook event for the Masquerave 2013 advertised AU Crush’s masked attendance. AU Crush posted about the event on its page and said that it would show up if enough students came to the event. AU Crush did appear at the event, though he never revealed himself, according to AU Crush’s Facebook post. “The event allows students to connect on a social level, and it builds for pride in the University,” Staples said. “This is one of the events connected to the University’s goals of creating an unsurpassed student experience here at AU.” NEWS@THEEAGLEONELINE.COM
‘Greekend’ plans changed following lack of interest By TORI DALCOURT EAGLE STAFF WRITER
Plans for “Greekend,” a threeday competition between Greek organizations for philanthropy donations, will be amended due to a lack of interest and support from the Greek organizations, according to an April 2 memo released to members of AU’s Greek community by the event’s organizers, Joni Agronin and AJ Custard. The organizers made the decision to best accommodate the needs and desires of the Greek Community, Agronin said. Many organizations planned conflicting events for the weekend, according to the memo. Instead of competing on teams
for philanthropy donations, the Greek community will spend the weekend of April 5 to 7 celebrating Greek life unity, Agronin and Custard said in the email. However, the event will still include Alpha Epsilon Phi’s philanthropy event, Phollapalooza, on April 5, according to the memo. The Greek community will also hold a cookout, a dunk tank and various field games on the Quad on April 6. “This event on Saturday will be an opportunity for the entire Greek community to take a step back and not worry about planning or philanthropy or homework or ritual and just have a fun day on the Quad,” Agronin said. TDALCOURT@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
SCENE
TV Pick: ‘Doctor Who’ 8
| WVAU reviews new music 14
South Asian Students Association brings arts festival to SIS atrium first year. SOC and School of Public Affairs junior Sarindee WickramaBollywood actors, Sri Lankan suriya (daughter of Jaliya) serves dancers and Indian poets will on the Advisory Board for SAAF gather April 6 in the School of and used past experiences to help International Service atrium in esteemed guests join the festival. a celebration of South Asian arts “I have been on the executive and culture. board of the South Asian StuThe first Intercollegiate South dents Association since freshman Asian Arts Festival will year and something take place Saturday and I learned from beAU professor Akbar Ahmed, Sri Lankan that features cultures from ing a part of that is to Ambassador Jaliya Wickramasuriya always reach out to the South Asian countries and former White House guest respective embassies,” such as Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka and more. musician Shankar Tucker are a few of Wickramasuriya said. Planning for SAAF bethe 14 speakers and performers for “Even though most of gan after School of Comhave an extremely SAAF’s first year. them munication senior Anuj busy schedule, they Gupta recognized the are always interested lack of South Asian film classes Gupta said. Gupta will also pre- in student-organized events that and the presence of South Asian miere a film he produced. promote the South Asian culture art on campus. The former Pakistani Ambas- and (most of the time) love to “I really wanted to show the sador to the United Kingdom and help out.” school that South Asian arts are AU Professor Akbar Ahmed, Sri AU faculty will also serve as really important as well and that Lankan Ambassador Jaliya Wick- guest speakers and artists durwe should be focusing on it,” Gup- ramasuriya and former White ing SAAF. School of Communita said. House guest musician Shankar cation professor Leena Jayaswal Free tickets went on sale in Tucker are a few of the 14 speak- will showcase her film “Crossing mid-March. ers and performers for SAAF’s Lines” and her photography, according to the website. The festival has 18 sponsors inNIMH RESEARCH STUDIES: Researchers are interested in learning about brain and body responses associated with generalized anxiety disorder. cluding the South Asian Women’s Collective, International Arts and Artists, D.C. South Asian Film Festival, Project Nur and the InDo you generally experience more tension, nervousness, dian American Heritage Project. or anxiety than your friends or family? If so, you may be Food brands and restaurants like interested in participating in research studies involving: Sprinkles, Honest Tea and India • Brain imaging Raga are providing free food and • Emotional response tests & Computer-based tasks • Outpatient visits at the NIH Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD drink for the event. • Evaluation for study eligibility includes physical “I think it just excites anyone and mental health assessment. that [with] a very universal topic, Participants must be between 18-50 years of age, and medically healthy. the arts, that we can get sponsors There is no cost for participation or any tests associated with the research. Financial compensation is available for participation. like Sprinkles to help us. I think For more information call: that’s what it really means in the 1-888-644-2694 or 1-888-NIH-ANXI end,” SPA senior and Advisory (TTY: 1-866-411-1010) E-mail: anxiety@mail.nih.gov Board member Brad Korten said. http://patientinfo.nimh.nih.gov By JORDAN-MARIE SMITH EAGLE STAFF WRITER
According to Gupta, SAAF was going to be a South Asian film festival, but he and the four students he worked with wanted it to include all forms of artistic expression from the region. There will be film screenings throughout the first floor classrooms and two graduate student filmmakers present for the event,
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COURTESY OF BBC
TV PICK: Doctor Who By LIZZIE BUTLER EAGLE CONTRIBUTING WRITER
The seventh season of “Doctor Who” returned March 30 with a tightly plotted episode titled “The Bells of Saint John,” in which the Doctor (Matt Smith is the 11th incarnation) meets his newest companion Clara “Oswin” Oswald (Jenna Louise Coleman, “Captain America”) while simultaneously finding clever ways to beat the
governess in Victorian times, and now, as a modern-day nanny. Her befuddling existence begs the question: could she be the Doctor’s first non-human companion since the 2005 reboot? Through twists and fun, almost secretive, moments (such as a quick flash to a book written by Amelia Pond, the Doctor’s previous companion), “Doctor Who” is back with all of the thrilling excitement and charm that enraptures its audience. Later this year, BBC will air a “Doctor Who” 50th anniversary special, featuring previous stars such as the 10th Doctor (David Tennant) and Rose Tyler (Billie Piper), a coupling no true “Doctor Who” fan could bear to miss. The exact airdate is unknown but is expected to be in November.
Research is conducted at the NIH Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD
ANXIOUS ? ARE YOU
NIMH RESEARCH STUDY
This research study is looking at stress responses in anxious adults. Enrolling adults, ages 18-60, who struggle with an anxiety disorder. Researchers will look at stress responses over 2-4 outpa"ent visits of 1.5 hours each. OPTIONAL: Some par"cipants may enroll in an addi"onal Cogni"ve Behavioral Therapy (CBT) research study of 8 outpa"ent group sessions of 1.5 hours each that examines if CBT changes reac"ons under stress. Par"cipa"on includes physical and neurological exams, EKG, blood and urine tests and stress-inducing tasks.
universe’s enemy alien forces (both on Earth and light-years away). Since losing the Ponds, his previous companions, the Doctor has been more subdued, but Clara has revved him back into full swing again. Clara, at this THESCENE@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM point, has been seen three times: the first time as a Dalek (one of the most feared and dangerous “DOCTOR WHO” AIRS ON BBC AMERICA races in the universe), then as a ON SATURDAYS AT 8 P.M. EST.
Eligibility includes those fluent in English, in good physical health, free of certain medica"ons and without recent drug or alcohol abuse (6 months). There is no cost to par"cipate. Compensa"on is provided.
Call: 1-888-644-2694 (1-888-NIH-ANXI) TTY: 1-866-411-1010 Email: anxiety@mail.nih.gov h!p://pa"en"nfo.nimh.nih.gov Department of Health & Human Services, National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Mental Health, www.clinicaltrials.gov 03-M-0093
5 RETURNtake OF PARAMORE, RENOWNED CLASSIC ‘JURASSIC PARK’ MARK LIEBERMAN — TAKE 5 RETURN OF THE GREATS
Three cinematic legends have new releases in theaters this week. First up is Danny Boyle (“Slumdog Millionaire,” “127 Hours”), who returns to filmmaking after a brief detour with the Olympics. His latest is crime thriller “Trance,” which follows an art dealer charged with finding a lost painting for a criminal gang. Fellow Oscar winner Robert Redford directs and stars in “The Company You Keep,” a political thriller that also marks the big-screen return of jaded superstar Shia LaBeouf (“Lawless”). Finally, “Jurassic Park,” Steven Spielberg’s dinosaur classic, gets a spiffy re-release in 3D and IMAX, previewing the upcoming third sequel.
NO SUCH THING AS FINISHED
Most people retire from their careers, kick back with a cool drink, collect their pensions and ride off into the sunset. Steven Soderbergh is not most people. This week, he announced that he is developing a 12-episode miniseries version of the satirical novel “The Sot-Weed Factor” and confirmed rumors about a “Magic Mike” musical. After directing over two dozen critically acclaimed films, the versatile director announced that the HBO biopic “Behind the Candelabra” would be his last film. And technically, he wasn’t lying, but that doesn’t mean he’s stopped working. Relaxation? Forget about it.
REST IN PEACE
Veteran English actor Richard Griffiths, best known to American audiences as Vernon Dursley from the “Harry Potter” films, passed away last week at the age of 65. Audiences also loved his wacky performance in the cult favorite “Withnail and I” and his supporting turns in “Gandhi” and “Chariots of Fire.” Griffiths was also an experienced theatre actor, beloved as Hector in “The History Boys” and praised for his work opposite a naked Daniel Radcliffe (“Harry Potter”) in “Equus.” Griffiths’ rotund stature, comedic timing and dramatic strengths suited him to this variety of standout roles. He will be missed.
WOE IS ME, NBC
Last week, the media breathlessly covered the late-night wars brewing in the NBC studios, but this week, the focus shifted to the morning shows. The network’s “The Today Show” has fallen well below competitor ABC’s “Good Morning America” in the ratings, suffering massive scrutiny after NBC poorly handled the transition from Ann Curry to Savannah Guthrie as co-anchor, putting Matt Lauer in a negative light in the process. Rumors swirled that NBC was talking to Anderson Cooper about possibly replacing Lauer before the embattled anchor’s contract was up. First “Tonight,” then “Today.” Luckily, NBC doesn’t have a show called “Yesterday.”
PARA-MORE
Paramore is hoping for a welcome return with the release of their new self-titled album this April 9. After three successful albums, the pop-rock band suffered a loss in 2010 when two of its five members, Josh and Zac Farro, announced their departure. The brothers claimed that Hayley Williams treated the band as if she were a solo act and that the band itself was a slave to its record label. Naturally, the remaining members refuted these claims in a 2011 interview. Regardless of these controversies, the band is back with new single “Now” and an album boasting 17 new tracks. MLIEBERMAN@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
theSEAGULL APRIL FOOLS!
¡VIVA LA REVOLUCIÓN!
I’m baaaaaaaaaack!
RATS FIGHT FOR RIGHTS ON CAMPUS @THEEAGLEONLINE
2 | APRIL 4, 2013 APRIL FOOLS theSEAGULL
AU bans caffeine on campus By AS TOLD BY GINGER ALEX’S BIDDY NO. 1
PHOTO CREDIT: YOU DON’T WANNA KNOW
A volunteer from AU’s anti-caffeine “compliance task force” confiscates a cup of coffee.
Students complain about neighbor noise By EL GECKO HEAD HONCHO
Students flooded a recent Advisory Neighborhood Commission meeting complaining about neighbor noise. “It’s ridiculous,” said School of Communication senior Joe Schmoe. “All these people in their 50s and 60s are irresponsible. They’re in a time of their lives where they are now responsible for themselves. Just because they’re retired doesn’t mean they have the right to be so loud.” Jason Smith, a Greek life leader, complained that families that
live near AU make it impossible to host “kegs and eggs” parties. “Members of my organization are entitled to feel comfortable at these social events,” Smith said. “How am I supposed to take a Jell-o shot off of someone’s stomach when there are crying children in strollers?” Some neighbors have shot back, saying that they have been around for years. “Students knew what they were getting into,” Glenbrook Road resident Petunia Flowers said. “Neighbors have been in this community for over 50 years.” APRILFOOLS@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
All stores and restaurants on AU’s campus will stop serving caffeinated beverages by Aug. 1. This timeline gives caffeine addicts a “transition period” during which they can wean themselves off of the drug. “After doing some research, we found that caffeine can be almost as addictive as nicotine,” an AU memo said. “So we decided that we should ban both drugs as a way to protect our students’ health.” Side effects and health problems associated with excessive caffeine intake include heart disease, insomnia, anxiety, tremors, yellowing of teeth and extremely bad breath, according to the Student Health Center. “We hope that by not having coffee, energy drinks and soda fountains on campus, students
will be less likely to indulge in caffeinated beverages,” a Student Health Center worker said. The Student Health Center will help rehabilitate students who experience any withdrawal symptoms as a result of the caffeine ban, according to the memo. Symptoms of caffeine withdrawal range from fatigue, irritability, tremors and a decreased attention span, according to the Online Medical Dictionary. “A lot of my friends are against the caffeine ban, but I think that it’s really a blessing in disguise,” Linda Brown, a junior in the College of Arts and Sciences, said. “Normally I drink five or six cups of coffee a day, but the ban will make it a lot harder for me to get caffeine, which will hopefully help me get off of the drug. Instead, I plan to switch to crystal meth to keep me up.” APRILFOOLS@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
Rats organize on campus, seek increased recognition from administration By THE OTHER COHEN UNDERCOVER AGENT
Rats and mice living on AU’s campus created “Rodent’s Initiative” to fight against discrimination and to advocate for their needs. “We’re everywhere on campus, from sleeping in the residence halls or hanging out in Bender Tunnel,” Mickey Vermin, the president of the initiative, said. “It’s time our voices, albeit squeaky, are heard.” The initiative will push to end animal testing on mice in Asbury Hall, more cheese and scraps op-
tions in the Terrace Dining Room and better sleeping options in the residence halls. “Sleeping under beds and inside the air vents is not glamorous.” Regina Muridae, a rat living above the sixth floor of Letts Hall with her roommate Amy Murine, a mouse who loves to spend her time in TDR. Murine wishes for better food options for mice and rats and encourages students to drop food on the floor more often. “We’re not exceptionally picky,” Murine said, “But maybe people could start dropping ice cream on the floor instead of
undercooked chicken once in a while.” The initiative will begin with the campaign “No Coke For Rodents,” an anti-animal experimentation campaign aimed at projects that inject cocaine into mice. “We like to have a good time as much as anybody else at AU,” Vermin said, “But we want a choice to use cocaine, not be forced test subjects. I have mice coming to me with drug addictions. This is a problem and I hope our human classmates will fight for our cause.” APRIFOOLS@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
theSEAGULL APRIL FOOLS APRIL 4, 2013 | 3
SUB hip-hops and pops into spring with the best line-up of all time, OF ALL TIME By P. WALLABY SHERMAN EAGLE EXTRAORDINAIRE
GMU might have Kendrick Lamar, GW snagged Macklemore and Georgetown hopped on Calvin Harris. But for once, AU rises above the rest for this season’s musical selection. On Saturday, April 27, R. Kelly, Frank Ocean, Drake and M83 will perform at AU. This is the first concert to be held in the Bender Arena since 2010. “This lineup is literally a dream come true. AU really came through this time,” said Prezi Dent, a junior in the School of Public Affairs. “Eh, I’m not impressed,” said Noah Body, a freshman in the College of Arts and Sci-
ences. Student Government and Student Activities usually fund the concerts, but President Neil Kerwin donated part of his salary to ensure a top-notch show on behalf of the students. “Enough was enough,” Kerwin said. “I’m tired of wasting this fine institution’s money on mediocre performers. When I went to AU, every weekend was legendary. I had to take matters into my own hands, for the sake of the students. They deserve better. I’m keeping it real.” James Franco was also invited by Kerwin to host the event. Supposedly, Franco is completely on board, but only if he can participate as Alien,
his dynamic character from “Spring Breakers”. “R. Kelly was enough for me, but Alien? AU is killin’ it,” said Pharrell ‘Fo’Real’ Jones, a sophomore in the Kogod School of Business. A hologram of LFO will also make an appearance. “Before, our shows were an embarrassment. Now, we’re the alpha dogs in the DMV,” said Noah Fence, a senior in the School of Communication. The concert will be free for AU students, but student IDs are required upon entry. Students are permitted to bring one off-campus guest, but it will cost $45. Only Dining Dollars will be accepted. APRILFOOLS@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
My Chemical Romance reunites to see if anyone still cares, tours TGI Friday’s By PERD HAPLEY WITCH DOCTOR
COURTESY OF THE SADDEST TOUR ON EARTH
CHEMICAL REACTION - MCR meets MSG
Just two weeks after announcing their breakup on their band website, New Jersey’s My Chemical Romance have announced plans to get back together and to launch a reunion tour. In a series of tweets, lead singer Gerard Way said that the band announced their split “just to see if anybody still cared about us.” According to Way, the idea to fake the band’s breakup was inspired by Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.” “I was hanging out at Hot Topic like every Saturday and I heard a couple of 14-year-olds pick up one of our shirts and say ‘What’s My Chemical Romance?’” Way said in an exclusive AOL Instant Messenger interview. “I was like, man, that’s our fanbase right there, and they don’t know who
I DON’T SEE NOTHIN’ WRONG WITH A LITTLE BUMP ‘N’ GRIND THE CAPTAIN — THE LOVE BOAT TIPS FOR BEING A BETTER KISSER? Doritos. Always eat some Doritos beforehand, if you know you’re going to be getting some hot mouth action. In a perfect kiss, the tongue resembles an animal: a lethargic marine mammal, or a predatory beast. Your tongue should either loll halfway out of your mouth like a lazy manatee, or charge into your partner’s mouth like a wildebeest with an agenda. Don’t stop at the mouth! Kiss ‘em all over the face. Trust me, if you French someone’s nose, their pants practically fall of right then and there. Eyeball licking is not out of the question, if you dare. HOW DO I GIVE A BETTER BLOWJOB? we are. It really made me wonder if we had any supporters left. I figured that if we pretended to break up, people might remember us and appreciate us more.” Way said the outpouring of support after the band announced their breakup was significant enough for the band to call off their fake breakup. “That conversation in Hot Topic really hurt my feelings, but when we said we were going to break up, all our fans started coming out of the woodwork and it started to feel like our glory days back in 2004,” Way said. The group says they have no plans to record new material, but they’ve already partnered with TGI Friday’s for a reunion tour of franchises throughout the Northeast and Midwest. The tour is called “The Jack Daniel’s Barbecue Thank God It’s My Chemical Romance Tour” and will kick off with a performance at the TGI Friday’s location in Freehold, N.J. “At TGI Friday’s we always try to create a fun atmosphere for
Pssh, oral sex. No one actually likes oral sex. MY BOYFRIEND WANTS TO TRY OUT ROLEPLAY... ANY SUGGESTIONS? Dinosaurs. Picture this: your lover is a Tyrannosaurus Rex, you are Archaeopteryx. He keeps trying to reach for your tremendous wings but is unable to reach because trex has tiny, tiny arms. But can he reach with ... a different appendage? Squawk like a prehistoric chicken every time you’re aroused. I THINK I’M GOING ALL THE WAY THIS WEEKEND AND I’M REALLY NERVOUS. DOES THE CAPTAIN HAVE ADVICE FOR A FIRST-TIMER? Don’t have sex, because you will get pregnant. And die. APRILFOOLS@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
guests to enjoy our great food, and MCR is just another way that we’re staying on the cutting edge of today’s hip music,” TGI Friday’s Regional Vice President Mark Frazier said. “We’re very excited about this partnership.” The band, known for their stage theatrics and dark concept albums, will perform the tour dressed as TGI Friday’s favorites, such as Sizzling Chicken and Cheese and Chicken Fingers. “This is definitely a new artistic direction for us,” guitarist Frank Iero said. “It will be a little difficult to adjust to, but I think it will be our best live show yet.” Iero will play the role of Pecan-Crusted Chicken salad in the tour. Though the band will mostly play their hits on the tour, Way says he has a few plans to switch up the set list. “I’m working on some special songs about every franchise we go to,” Way said. “There’s a lot of emotion attached to these TGI Friday’s.” APRILFOOLS@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
4 | APRIL 4, 2013 APRIL FOOLS theSEAGULL
AU community ready to hatch from Eagle’s Nest and flock to upcoming Wawa location in tunnel By P. WALLABY SHERMAN AU LOCAL CELEB
Oh good God...
#
Clawed! Catfished! Calamity! Craziness! By SALTY SALT GOSSIP COLUMNIST
While the Manti Te’o catfish story was headlining across the country, a similar situation was on the campus of AU. Recently, AU mascot Clawed Z. Eagle admitted he was a catfish victim when his online girlfriend pretended to be something she wasn’t. “I’ve experienced some really tough AU sports losses,” Clawed said. “None of those compared to being catfished.” The story for Clawed began earlier in the school year. Despite his massive popularity on campus, Clawed found himself looking for love. Clawed joined one of the world’s largest mascot dating websites and began looking for potential matches. Clawed thought he had found a match in Clawdia D. Bird. “She looked absolutely gorgeous in all of her photos,” Clawed said. “We also had a lot in common.” Initially the relationship was off to a good start as both Clawed and Clawdia hit it off. There was one catch to the relationship. Clawdia didn’t live in the D.C. area. The relationship continued as the love birds were always keeping in touch. Tension began to rise as Clawed became impatient with Clawdia’s lack of enthusiasm about meeting up. Clawed’s suspi-
cion began to rise. “Around winter break I brought up possibly meeting up somewhere,” Clawed said. “She was super evasive about the whole thing.” Clawed saw his opportunity several weeks ago when Clawdia mentioned that she would be going to D.C. for work. Still, Clawdia was hesitant to meet in person. Clawed issued the ultimatum: meet up or break up. Clawdia eventually caved to the request of Clawed and agreed to meet up at the Davenport Coffee Lounge. Clawed sat patiently waiting for Clawdia to show up, when he was approached by a lizard who introduced herself as Clawdia D. Bird. Clawed was stunned. “You can talk about how you would respond in a situation like that,” Clawed said. “It was one of the most shocking points in my life.” Clawdia, whose real name was Lizy A. Reptile, said she was sorry for deceiving Clawed and that she still wanted to have a relationship. “I sort of felt bad for her,” Clawed said. “I still don’t really know how I feel about the whole thing.” Despite being embarrassed about the situation, Clawed said he felt obligated to tell his story so others will be aware of the possible dangers of falling in love online. APRILFOOLS@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
Step aside, Eagle’s Nest — there’s a new sheriff in the tunnel and its name is Wawa. After a year of strolling by the empty space that once was America(n)’s sweetheart, McDonald’s, AU has decided to bring Wawa to campus. This will be the first Wawa ever in D.C. “We’re really excited for the Wawa. It’s going to change life on this campus as we know it,” Bob Loblaw said, director of AU Housing and Dining. For the most part, students and faculty are pleased with Lo-
blaw’s choice, showing their approval by wearing Wawa apparel all over campus. A celebration ceremony was held on the Quad April 1 in the form of Hoagie Fest, one of Wawa’s most popular promotions. “I’m from New Jersey and I worship Wawa to the highest degree,” Hope Fulley said, a sophomore in the SOC. The two convenience stores will be positioned directly across from each other so there will definitely be some competition. “Personally, I prefer Eagle’s Nest,” said Noah Body, a freshman in CAS.
Of course, some students have openly expressed their backlash. NFW (NANA FOR WAWA) has been petitioning in the tunnel all week since the announcement. “I’m from Pennsylvania and as a die-hard Sheetz supporter, I think this decision was completely biased,” Penny Silvania said, NFW president and a junior in Kogod. “There are significantly more students here from New Jersey. It’s not fair. AU is making a huge mistake.” Wawa will be open for business next semester starting in Fall 2013. APRILFOOLS@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
BIEBER, DICAPRIO, BUELLER CAN’T BE ‘CAGED’ FLORIDA MAN — TAKE 5 LEONARDO TAKES A DIVE
Leonardo DiCaprio, who has spent much of his adult career pining for a sometimes-deserved Oscar award, finally went too far this week. His fairly mediocre performance in the Oscar bait movie “The Aviator 2: Flying High,” has garnered lukewarm awards season buzz, so Leo went on a last-ditch effort for his Oscar. Last Friday, in an ironic “Great Gatsby”-esque turn of events, Leo was found face-down in his swimming pool, apparently drowned after sending a series of drunk texts to Kate Winslet. Two days later, his apparent suicide was discovered to be an elaborate ruse to win a posthumous Oscar for Best Actor. Jonah Hill is still expected to win for “Moneyball 2.”
CAGE-LESS NO LONGER
In a shocking twist of fate,
Nicolas Cage abandoned his acting career to pursue his lifelong dream of burlesque dancing. Cage says he has been nursing the dream since he co-starred with Cher in “Moonstruck” and had been inspired by her bright and glittery lifestyle. Cage has (quite aptly) taken to the art of cage dancing, earning him the nickname “Free Bird.” He has also permanently adopted his infamous birdshaped hairstyle in honor of his new stage name.
NICKELBACK WINS AN OSCAR Leonardo DiCaprio cried.
DO YOU BELIEB IN LIFE AFTER SWAG?
Justin Bieber does. Months after his break-up with the out-of-his-league Selena Gomez, Bieber (after grieving over the relationship by wearing drop-crotch pants and pretend-
ing he’s an original gangster) committed Twitter suicide and officially changed his name to “Swaggy.”
‘90S REBOOT-MANIA
Following the news of a “Boy Meets World” spin-off, as well as rumors of a “Full House” reboot, TV executives have decided on their next big nostalgia-ridden moneymaker: a “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” reboot. No, not the overrated John Hughes comedy from 1986 — the short-lived, comedy goldmine that was the 1990 television series starring Charlie Schlatter, Ami Dolenz and Jennifer Aniston. Executives have promised the return of the beloved Miami Vice jacket, the groovy ‘90s soundtrack and the inspired dance sequences. Can’t wait for 2016! APRILFOOLS@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
theEAGLE APRIL 4, 2013 | 9
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THIS SUMMER Register today—classes fill up fast!
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10 | APRIL 4, 2013 SCENE theEAGLE
AUDIOPHILE BONOBO
THE NORTH BORDERS Your new rainy day groove.
On Simon Green’s, aka Bonobo, fifth release, the British producer shows his growth and skill as an electronic artist. Compared to 2010’s “Black Sands,” the songs on this album are sparkling and more emotive. Stand out parts of “The North Borders” are the collaborations, with artists like Erykah Badu and Grey Reverend popping up. Green’s production shines here, with
WHITE FENCE CYCLOPS REAP ‘60s psychedelia with some modern touches.
White Fence released a collaboration with Ty Segall last year that was the perfect combination of ‘60s influence and garage rock. This White Fence album is straight ‘60s psychedelia with modern multitrack recording techniques. This allows White Fence to add whatever he wants, whenever he wants in the song, and he does this a lot. “Pink Gorilla” features buzzy guitar snippets that come in randomly, and it’s like a tornado of different
Eagle Rants I think Game of Thrones offers a good model to replace future SG elections. Also, Pat Kelly wins the day for going on Eagle Rants with his real name. The editor seriously should have put up a blank April 1st rants at 5p.m. That woulda been hilarious
FOR RELEASE APRIL 2, 2013
Looking for new music? DJs at WVAU share their thoughts on a range of recent releases.
his spacy soundscapes sitting nicely under the vocals on the track. Whereas the rest of the songs are minimal and sweet, these catch your attention while maintaining the hypnotic quality that can usually be associated with Green’s work. Overall, this album evokes a sprawling world of mist and space, with the use of chimes and glitchy synth keeping it from crossing the thin line into monotonous. This trap is one that many artists and producers fall into, but Green soars above it. Recommended If You Like: The Cinematic Orchestra, Coldcut, Jaga Jazzist By LEIGH HOPKINS, AMBIENT BLOOM WEDNESDAYS, MIDNIGHT-2 A.M.
layers that all come together. “Live On Genevieve” begins with a trippy reverse effect; then goes into a catchy pop song with a trio of slide, electric and acoustic guitars. “White Cat” abruptly transitions from a nice ‘60s acoustic guitar, to an electric guitar and organ with a pounding electric beat, then reverts to that first style through what sounds like a record slowing down. “Only Man Alive” is a fairly normal track — not normal on this album — as an acoustic song with some harmonica. It is pretty clear where White Fence’s influences lie. If you are a fan of the ‘60s and psychedelic music, give this a listen. RIYL: Pink Floyd, Foxygen, Ty Segall By DREW SHER, FUR SHER SATURDAYS 4-6 P.M.
Go ahead, speak your mind. We’ll probably print it.
TDR, if your menu says “salmon cakes and cobbler” then give me salmon cakes and cobbler. Where are my salmon cakes and cobbler!!! How can you not expect people to get mad when you start a FB status with “Maybe this is just my racist opinion…”
The library should run a service from 10 pm to 6 am where you can get motivational homework hugs in exchange for meal swipes or eaglebucks. On Thursdays, we wear Pat Kelly Do tenders have trans fats
Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Lewis
ACROSS 1 “SNL”-like show filmed in Canada 5 “Doctor Who” network 8 Rafters shoot them 14 Pre-Euro Italian coin 15 Nest egg letters 16 With 3-Down, way west for many American pioneers 17 __-Iraq War: ’80s conflict 18 Crooner Perry’s ad? 20 Self-righteous sort 21 Manicurist’s aid 22 Rage inwardly 23 Space pilot Han’s shirt? 25 Through 26 Classic racecars 27 Lighthouse light 30 Nouveau __ 33 U2 frontman’s bit of naughtiness? 36 Back in the day 37 Bedevil 39 PC monitor type 40 Cartoon possum’s corporate symbol? 42 Chilean range 44 Camera stand 45 Roman 1,051 46 Winery container 47 Japanese general Hideki’s talisman? 53 Triumphant cries 55 Disconnect 56 Explosion sound, in comics 57 Movie pooch’s picture? 59 Poetry unit 60 Church key, e.g. 61 “__ My Party”: Lesley Gore hit 62 Fairly matched 63 Great suffering 64 Easter egg dip 65 “That didn’t go well” DOWN 1 Pink ones are unwelcome— except in lingerie
By Jeffrey Wechsler
2 Prefix with cumulus 3 See 16-Across 4 Self-portraitist with a bandaged ear 5 Bodybuilder’s “guns” 6 __-Seltzer 7 Desert safari beast 8 Pink-cheeked 9 Dada pioneer Jean 10 __ Gulf: Arabian waterway 11 Reason given for calling in sick 12 Rounded roof 13 Winter whiteness 19 Pizarro’s gold 24 Broad-brimmed hat 25 Chaste priestesses of ancient Rome 27 “__ appétit!” 28 Fairy tale start 29 Dozes 30 Like one who can’t put a book down 31 Composer Stravinsky 32 Ponders
4/2/13 SOLUTION TO LAST WEEK’S PUZZLE Monday’s Puzzle Solved
(c)2013 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
33 Male sib 34 “Egad!” in an IM 35 Opposite of paleo38 Long in the tooth 41 Tommy Dorsey hit tune 43 Less clumsy 45 Sullen 47 Internet slang based on a common typo 48 Egg-shaped
4/2/13
49 Harbor wall 50 Eight-time AllStar Tony of the ’60s-’70s Minnesota Twins 51 Sister of La Toya 52 Warning signs 53 Elemental particle 54 Arizona native 55 Twinkle-toed 58 Rev.’s message
SOLUTION TO LAST WEEK’S PUZZLE
OPINION
STAFF EDITORIAL
Bender Arena fee is unrealistic for students clubs Not many students are aware of this, but in order to use Bender Arena for events students must pay AU $1,000. That’s right: $1,000. And to make matters worse, this fee is simply to reserve the space. It does not include the expenses of security, food or maintenance. Each AU student already pays $65 per semester for the use of Bender in their tuition. This additional fee makes it almost impossible for any student organization to host events in Bender. There is one exception to this: Student Government. SG is the
only organization on campus with a budget large enough to fund events in Bender. It’s almost as if AU caters to SG, another example of a system that needs to be reorganized. Bender Arena is a great space that is currently not properly utilized. Apart from athletic events and a few practices by the teams, the space is usually empty. If student organizations were not barred from hosting events by high costs, the arena could be used to its full potential.
AU is known for having little school spirit, and a big part of that is that we rarely come together as a collective student body. AU
doesn’t have a football team (or much interest in sports, for that matter), so the closest hope we have for a sense of community on campus are the events hosted
RYAN MIGEED | THIS SIDE OF RIGHT debate over God’s existence. One particularly vocal gay marriage advocate – let’s call him Thomas – indignantly shouted out, “Your god isn’t real!” And then, to the pro-marriage people in the crowd, he said, “You can’t reason with people who have no ability to reason.” The problem with this last statement is that I have the ability to reason, and I believe in God. And I believe in gay marriage, too. My argument for gay marriage always begins with the First Amendment. In a country with no national religion or “marriage amendment,” we cannot ban gay marriage. Period. It’s discrimination. And, contrary to the justices’ statements last week, there is
services they are already funding. More and more often it seems like students are treated like guests at AU. We can only use rooms at certain times. We have to pay for most everything on campus. Every step a student organization tries to take has multiple regulations attached to it. The bureaucracy at AU makes it extremely hard for students to accomplish anything. If we pay tuition, we deserve to have the ability to all of the facilities at a price students can afford. .≠ E
as … I would offer him the simple message of the Easter hymn I heard this past Sunday: “Roll Away the Stone.” This is the strongest argument the Christian Church possesses: Jesus of Nazareth, a historical figure, who we can confirm by Roman records was crucified, disappeared three days after his death. Roll away the stone of his tomb, and you’ll find that the body isn’t there. It hasn’t been found for 2,000 years. Now, our doubting Thomas will say that that’s because Jesus’ followers stole the body to make it look like he rose. But the problem with that theory is that almost all of his disciples went into hiding after his death. And they wouldn’t have thought to take the body anyway, because for the past three years, they were confused any time Jesus referred to the Resurrection in his parables. Unfortunately, it seems that many of those who support gay marriage – and many of those who are gay – also reject God and
argue against his existence. But, as I’ve just explained, there is no reason to think gay marriage is incongruous with Christianity, and no reason to consider Christianity incongruous with reality. To those who have felt pushed away by the Church, I would like to inform you that Pope Francis supported civil unions as a cardinal in Argentina. There has never been a time when the gay community was more accepted than today. And there has never been a time when the gay community was more welcome at church and more assured that its “lifestyle” and its faith are compatible. To all those who are taught the opposite, I encourage you to come to a church that reads the Gospel correctly. Ryan Migeed is a sophomore in the School of Public Affairs and the School of Communication and the vice president of AU College Democrats.
If student organizations were not barred by high costs from hosting events, the arena could be used to its full potential.
Marriage support need not clash with religion For supporters of gay marriage, the scene outside the Supreme Court last week was accompanied by a hopeful atmosphere, in addition to the many great slogans like “Keep Calm and Marry On.” But something unfortunate came out of the rally, and it unraveled before my eyes. There was an anti-gay marriage protester – let’s call him Levi – holding a large sign and quoting the Bible (albeit selectively). But this wasn’t the problem. The problem was that he soon became surrounded by pro-gay marriage rally-goers, who goaded and argued with him. And the argument quickly degenerated from a debate over marriage to a
by student clubs in Bender. A small fee for clubs to use Bender is reasonable, especially to pay for the logistical expenses of putting on an event. But $1,000 as a reservation fee is asking for way too much. Professional organizations that hold events in Bender are charged a higher price than student organizations, but they are not paying tuition each semester to the University. It’s simply unfair that students have to pay so much extra for
plenty of standing on the issue of discrimination. But, if pressed, my argument for gay marriage enters into the same realm as Levi’s. In that realm, I can quote the Bible as freely as Levi. Jesus said, “Wherever two or more are gathered in my name, there I am among them.” And, as I was taught for nine years in a Catholic elementary school, “God is love.” That phrase was on almost every bulletin board in my Catholic school. And if we are to believe that God exists in the very emotion of love, then we must believe that he exists in a relationship between two people who love each other. Now as for the doubtful Thom-
EDPAGE@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
EDPAGE@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
12 | APRIL 4, 2013 OPINION theEAGLE
Don’t depend on AU to teach you how to innovate JULIA GREENWALD | RANTING WITH MYSELF My father and I are both avid online New York Times readers and constantly send each other interesting articles throughout the week. As I scanned my inbox last week, all the usual emails showed up: Today@AU, an Urban Outfitters deal and my daily NYT email from dad. However, while the articles usually have me thinking about international policy or travel, this one asked me a question I hadn’t been asked before: “Do any of your professors or classes at AU teach you to be creative, inventive and innovative?” He had sent me Thomas L. Friedman’s recent column “Need a Job? Invent It.” In his piece, Friedman talks
OP-ED
about Harvard education specialist Tony Wagner’s book “Creating Innovators: The Making of Young People Who Will Change The World.” Wagner argues that our K-12 and college tracks are not consistently “adding the value and teaching the skills that matter most in the marketplace.” According to Wagner, the goal of education today is to make kids “innovation ready” instead of “college ready” so they can add value to whatever they do. Similarly, another article in the New York Time’s online “Room for Debate” discusses the importance of a liberal arts foundation. Columnist William Pannapacker argues, “The world is changing too quickly to make
reliable predictions. Assume that you will have many careers, and that you will need to find ways to adapt your talents to the world’s needs.” In a world where knowledge and information are so easily accessible, what matters is what we do with this knowledge and use it to stand out, be creative and come up with new ideas. According to Wagner, “skills like critical thinking, communication and collaboration are far more important than academic knowledge.” Usually, I think about how hard it will be for me to find a job in two years. I worry about internship opportunities and fattening up my resume so I can hopefully have a shot at a decent
Untapped benefits suggest it’s time to legalize marijuana
The writer of the Declaration of Independence and former president Thomas Jefferson said that “Hemp is of first necessity to the wealth and protection of the country.” I firmly believe that the United States, including the federal government, should legalize the recreational use and sale of cannabis for adults over the age of 21 and also legalize the production of hemp. This is an issue I’ve struggled with for some time. While I do believe the health and well-being of citizens must be taken above all else, after intensive research and thought, I believe that legalization is the proper way forward for the United States. Currently, marijuana is illegal under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 (CSA). Under the
CSA, marijuana is classified as a Schedule I drug, which means that the drug falls under three requirements to meet the standard: 1) the drug presents high potential for abuse, 2) the drug has no medical use in the United States and 3) there is no safe way to administer the drug under medical supervision. The first requirement, that the drug have a high potential for abuse, is not the case with cannabis. Only about 10 percent of marijuana users become addicted to the plant, and even then, researchers say that the addiction at that point is purely mental and does not come from cannabis itself but more from the person who is using it. Regarding the second and third requirement, 16 states have enacted medical marijuana laws
of some kind and have given patients access to cannabis at the discretion of a doctor. Thus, an already large part of the United States has already determined that there is substantial medical use of marijuana and that it can help patients. One study conducted on the medical benefits of cannabis found that cannabis users that didn’t smoke tobacco were in significantly better health than their tobacco counterparts, and in some cases better than those who did not use cannabis at all. Kareem Abdul Jabar, the famed NBA legend, and Tommy Chong, comedian and marijuana activist, both admitted to heavily using cannabis when diagnosed with cancer, and both are now 100 percent cancer free. Therefore, marijuana isn’t a
job after graduation. Nevertheless, my father’s inquiry really got me thinking about AU and the education and tools it provides me. I can easily say that many of my classes at AU have taught me collaboration, and as a student in the School of Communication I am forced to be an expert at communicating. However, in terms of being an ‘innovator’, my digital skills class, a requirement for all SOC students, is the only one that has come close. When it comes to innovation, it’s the clubs I am a part of on campus that teach me to be an innovator. At Her Campus American, our team of writers and publicity members attempt to always stay ahead of the game. We collaborate and come up with ideas and topics to write about, as well as try and identify trends and topics that are popular on the Web.
AU’s own Social Media Club is also a group of young innovators who constantly attempt to be ahead of the game. We learn to use the Internet as a tool to stand out. In a world where almost everyone tweets, we discuss how to make our tweets different. April 12 and 13 marks the date of the Third Annual Social Learning Summit, two days dedicated to panels, networking and learning to be an innovator, at least on the Web. AU’s general education classes may still not be tailored to provide us with the tools to be innovators, but students must take the initiative to be creative and innovative, or they will fall to the bottom of the workforce food chain.
Schedule I drug and should be declassified. and its prohibition should end. This would benefit the United States as a whole and allow companies to start producing hemp. Hemp can be used to create paper, and its benefits as an alternative to paper are grandiose. The plant also takes as little as two months to grow to maturity, and one acre of hemp creates the same amount of paper as four acres of trees. Knowing this, the United States could effectively end deforestation by legalizing hemp and cannabis. We would never have to cut down another tree and we could save all of our beautiful forest land. Simply by these facts, hemp is a smarter and greener alternative for the United States. If we want to move toward sustainability, we must endorse the production of hemp. To bring both the cannabis and hemp industry full circle, the estimated savings to the federal government of a national
cannabis industry is $14 billion, and hemp is already worth $150 million of consumption in the United States. Unfortunately, since hemp can’t be made in the United States, that $150 million goes solely to overseas companies, and the United States loses out on that economic growth. It would be silly to ignore the enormous economic benefit of legalizing cannabis and hemp production. It is a new economic frontier and an untapped resource in the modern age that can lead to an economic revolution. For the sake of our youth, for the countless harmless individuals in jail, and for the progress of our nation as innovators, we must end marijuana and hemp prohibition in the United States.
Julia Greenwald is a sophomore in the School of Communication. EDPAGE@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
John Foti is a freshman in the School of Public Affairs and a current Quick Take Columnist for The Eagle. EDPAGE@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
theEAGLE OPINION APRIL 4, 2013 | 13
OP-ED
Being a radical is not what you think it means One of the most potent stigmas of CAUS is that it is overly radical and that there is a ver y specific breed of person (the extremist) who supports this group. Both statements are possible but are definitely too simplistic to encompass the complete truth. I did not consider myself radical before joining CAUS. As it turns out, I am radical. You wouldn’t know it if you saw me in everyday life. When it comes to my political, economic or social reform views, I am not loud or flashy about vocalizing my opinion — this is just not my preference. I prefer to contribute in other ways that are perhaps not as loud but are a contribution that can have impact nonetheless. This brings me to a major point: it is possible for you to support CAUS or join without
being a radical extremist. Radical is too often used as a way to degrade a person/group or describe individuals’ actions as uncouth. Perhaps it depends on your definition, but radical is someone who supports drastic
ition freeze. The facts are simple: CAUS members created a petition for a tuition freeze and acquired 1,700 signatures. At the time, I didn’t realize what group was asking for signatures, but what
CAUS members were active participants at the coffee hours held by the board as well as actively holding information sessions about tuition themselves. Who was there the day of the final meeting where tuition was to finalized and decided upon? You guessed it: members of CAUS. I left out many other contributions members of CAUS have done and are continuing to do, but the point should be clear that members of CAUS were a
It is possible for you to support cause or join without being a radical extremist. political, economic and/or social reform. It is my belief that issues, such as education and tuition, need radical reform. Is CAUS radical, in my opinion? Dare I say it . . . yes. But this is not a bad thing. If “radical” means drastic reform of some sort, then it is also my opinion that CAUS did a good job in their efforts toward a tu-
I knew for sure is I can’t afford to pay one more penny of tuition. CAUS members not only presented these signatures to President Neil Kerwin but also reached out to the Board of Trustees numerous times in efforts to discuss concerns about tuition rates and student representation.
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major contributor to the lowest increase in tuition rates in AU history. That seems pretty radical (or if a different adjective is more comforting: drastic, major, essential, vital) to me. I am not writing on behalf of CAUS, but as an independent member. All I can offer you is personal experience. With that being said, it has
Ashley Lofria is a junior in the College of Arts and Sciences. EDPAGE@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
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been my personal experience that the members of CAUS, with whom I have attended meetings, care profoundly about the direction CAUS is moving in. Members seek to make sure that CAUS continues to be a group that is there for students and is a true place for the student voice to be not only heard but recognized as an important voice and one that should be addressed. If you are like me, perhaps marching outside of Ker win’s house is not your style, but there are still other ways that you can contribute. Maybe you are good at writing and could help draft up a student bill of rights. Perhaps you have an affinity for volunteering and could be a volunteer for the safe walk program, or, who knows, you just might have a really good original idea. Whatever the case may be, CAUS flourishes through the active participation of all AU students.
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SPORTS
Reports: Men’s basketball head coach Jeff Jones to fill Old Dominion coaching vacancy By JOSH PAUNIL EAGLE STAFF WRITER
AU head men’s basketball coach Jeff Jones has left the program to take the same position at Old Dominion University, according to multiple media reports and confirmed by a source inside the Athletic Department. Nancy Yasharoff, associate athletic director of communications, declined to comment. Jones did not respond to a request for comment. Jones is coming off his worst season in his time with the Eagles after AU suffered many bad firsts in program history. AU failed to earn a top-four seed in
the Patriot League Tournament and lost in the first round of the conference tournament. They finished the year 10-20, including a Patriot League mark of 5-10 and ended the season on a five-game losing streak.
expected to be made at a team meeting at 4 p.m. that wasn’t scheduled until Wednesday, April 3. With the coaching change, the most immediate impact could be whether players de-
[sic],” junior center Tony Wroblicky said when asked if he’d consider transferring. “I’m ride or die with AU.” Four players to keep an eye on as this situation unfolds are the high school seniors who signed letters of intent to play at AU next season. Those include point guard Dallas Cameron, shooting guards Kade Kager and Jalen Rhea and power forward Yilret Yiljep.
Replacing Jones, the only coach who had led AU to the NCAA Tournament, will be the first big challenge for new Athletic Director William Walker, who hasn’t started yet. According to a men’s basketball player who requested anonymity, no one has informed the team of any coaching change. However, that announcement is
cide to transfer out of the program. One player, however, has already shot down that possibility. “No, none [what] so ever
“No, they didn’t [tell me of a coaching change] ... but I’m highly disappointed,” Cameron said. The Blanche Ely High School of Florida floor general
also said he’s unsure of what he’ll do, but he likely won’t ask out of his letter of intent. Replacing Jones, the only coach who had led AU to the NCAA Tournament, will be the first big challenge for new Athletic Director William Walker, who hasn’t started yet. Jones just completed his 13th year at the helm of the men’s basketball program, compiled a record of 202-162 and led the Eagles to two NCAA Tournament appearances in 2007-08 and 2008-09. Since Jones just signed a contract extension through the 2016 season a year and a half ago, this move surprises many. A plethora of current and former men’s basketball players took to Twitter to express their reactions to the media reports. Eagle Staff Writer Eric Saltzman contributed to this report. JPAUNIL@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
Interim lacrosse head coach Wallace has Eagles making history after tough start to season By MOLLY KEPNER EAGLE STAFF WRITER
COURTESY OF AU ATHLETICS
Interim head coach Emma Wallace led the Eagles to first win over a ranked team in over a decade.
For AU women’s lacrosse Coach Emma Wallace, lacrosse has always been an integral part of her life. And she has always set her sights high. When Wallace took the reins, the AU lacrosse program was coming off of a 2012 season in which they went 7-10 overall and concluded the season with a loss to Navy in the Patriot League semifinals. Despite high aspirations, Wallace’s head coaching career at AU did not go as Wallace or
the team had planned with six straight losses to open the year. “The beginning of the season is what no team wants,” Wallace said. “It was mentally draining for the girls, especially since five out of those six losses were close.” Wallace didn’t give up treating every practice the same, preaching hard work and extra effort. She told her team to take these losses as an opportunity to learn and grow. Wallace kept the team together, never letting her players
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theEAGLE SPORTS APRIL 4, 2013 | 15
Pope, Regan headline five Eagle top-five finishers at Maryland Invitational By ADAM HAMBURGER EAGLE CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Junior John Pope and sophomore Nick Regan highlighted the men’s and women’s outdoor track team performances at the Maryland Invitational on March 30 as they both registered runner-up finishes Pope placed second in the 1,500-meter run with a time of 3:56.82 and was the only AU runner to finish in the top-10 of the event. Sophomore Tom Woermer was the second highest finisher for AU in the event a he finished in 12th place with a time of 4:06.80. The Eagles fared better in
the 3,000-meter run as Regan and freshman David McCombs both finished in the top-four. Regan was the runner-up (8:38.79) while McCombs finished in fourth with a time of 8:45.94. On the women’s side, AU had back-to-back finishes in the 1,500-meter run between juniors Ali Tyburski and Julia Sullivan. Tyburski placed fifth with a time of 4:46.10 while Sullivan placed sixth with a time of 4:49.31. Junior Krystal Foster also registered a top-five finish for the Eagles as she ran to a time of 18:15.02 in the 5,000-meter run. Even though AU finished
Wallace’s successful lacrosse playing, coaching career translates to wins for AU ≤ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18
get discouraged by the scoreboard or league standings. She understood that both the offense and the defense needed to play well in order to win, and she harped on this with her players. “In order to win, you need both your offense and defense to play well at all times,” Wallace said. “You can’t have one do well and the other not. You have to be running on all cylinders at all times.” Wallace’s coaching and words paid off. Beginning on March 13 with a decisive win over Coastal Carolina, the Eagles got hot. The Eagles entered April 2 with a five game win streak,
which includes an incredible victor y over No. 12 Johns Hopkins University. This marked the first time the Eagles had beaten a ranked team in over 10 years. The five consecutive victories is the longest AU win streak since 2007. After a rocky start, Wallace’s AU head coaching career is back on track. However, she says she can’t take all of the credit herself. “Emily [Maher] is one of our true athletes on the field,” Wallace said. “She’s stepping up for us this year. She doesn’t only score goals, but she does the little things too, like get ground balls.” Wallace also credits the play of freshman goalie Teal Harrison, who has also stepped up in a big way this season.
fourth at the Navy Invitational March 23, they performed much better at this event. At the Navy Invitational, senior Mark Leininger ran to his first outdoor title of the season in the 5,000-meter run. Regan and McCombs posted a topfour finish in the 1,500 meter run for AU while the men’s medley team posted a top-five finish. The Eagles return to action April 5 and 6 as they prepare for the Colonial Relays. AU will visit Williamsburg, Va., as the College of William and Mary hosts the event and the Eagles hope to build on an upward trend. SPORTS@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
“Teal is ver y athletic, smart and fun to work with,” Wallace said. “She’s holding her own out there. In the past few games, something has clicked for her. I can tell she’s gonna have a bright career as a lacrosse player.” In just her first season she has the Eagles in a position to make a deep run in the Patriot League Tournament and possibly get a bid to the NCAA Tournament, a feat that AU has only accomplished once in program existence, in 2003. Wallace, after her team’s statement win over Johns Hopkins, is used to making waves. “Any given day, anything can happen,” Wallace said. “As long as we work hard and prepare, I think we can go ver y far. I think we can it all the way to the Patriot League finals.” From her First Team AllAmerican career at St. Andrew’s High School in Delaware to her Johns Hopkins career in which her team reached three NCAA Tournaments, Wallace has experienced success on multiple
levels. It came as no surprise to many when she was offered coaching positions following her collegiate career. Wallace began her coaching career as the varsity head coach at the Highland School in Warrenton, Va., and also as the head coach of the Upper Corner Lacrosse Club in northern Virginia. Following this stint, Wallace became the varsity head coach of the Georgetown Visitation Preparator y School in D.C. In September 2011, she became an assistant coach at the University of California Berkeley, where she ser ved until June 2012. During this time, she also was the head coach of the BearLax Lacrosse Club in Berkeley, Calif. When AU hired Wallace as an assistant coach in July 2012, previous Head Coach Laura Campbell and the team were optimistic. “I am so happy to have Emma join our coaching staff and welcome her back to the East Coast,” Campbell told
AUEagles.com back in July 2012. “Her positive attitude, conscientious nature and desire for success will fit in ver y well with our program here at American.” Wallace was also excited about the opportunity to join AU’s coaching staff. Little did she know, that she would be offered an even bigger opportunity just three months later. In October 2012, Campbell decided to step down in order to spend more time with her husband and three small children back in Connecticut. Shortly after, Wallace was named interim head coach of the lacrosse team. “[That October] was a crazy time,” Wallace said. “But being a head coach has always been a part of my future plans. I wanted this job and this opportunity as soon as I got it.” With five games left in the regular season, the Eagles look to finish out this season strong behind the guidance of Wallace. SPORTS@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
16 | APRIL 4, 2013 SPORTS theEAGLE to March schedule. “In the sport of wrestling, that can be very, very draining on the guys that compete so physically, we just wanted to make sure Kevin took care of himself throughout the season.”
A CHANGE IN MENTALITY
However, not all of his preparation was concentrated on the physical aspect of the sport. Tao benefited from something rarely used in collegiate athletics: a sports psychologist. Starting last spring, Tao began
Part One: Wrestling’s Kevin Tao leaves behind legacy of leadership, perseverance after Cinderella run at NCAA Championship
“It was just a lot about knowing ourselves in terms of what we want from our competition every time we compete, what we expect out of ourselves,” Tao said. “The theme of all our conversations has always been controlling what you can control and not worrying about what you can’t control.” Because of his improved ability to focus and set clear expectations, Tao’s performance on the mat improved. Instead of meeting with Levenson on a consistent basis, the sessions would go in
“[Levenson] worked with me on all of the personal, daily things I needed to go through and the mental focuses that I needed to have in competition that I kind of lost sight of throughout the season.” -AU senior wrestler Kevin Tao
COURTESY OF AU ATHLETICS
Senior Kevin Tao’s unique experience at AU has made him a positive influence both on and off the mat. By JOSH PAUNIL EAGLE STAFF WRITER
Kevin Tao was shocked. Sitting in a corner in a closed-off tunnel under the bleachers at Wells Fargo Arena in Iowa, the wrestler mulled what had just happened. “I didn’t really know what to think,” Tao said. “All I knew was, emotionally, I wanted something and I gave everything I had, and I was 100 percent certain before that everything I had was good enough. But it wasn’t.” Moments before, the senior had come up only a few points short of earning All-America honors. But with the sound of the
buzzer, his AU career was over. “It makes me feel like I’m not done wrestling, which is tough because I’m in a sport where [NCAA championships are] usually the end of the road for most people,” Tao said. Tao, who competes at 149 lbs., fell to Virginia Tech’s Nick Brascetta, 5-3, on March 22 in his wrestleback match as he tried to extend his Cinderella run as an unseeded wrestler at the NCAA Wrestling Championships. However, after winning his first two matches and upsetting the No. 3 seed, he lost to Missouri’s Drake Houdashelt in extra time, 3-2, in the quarterfinals to force
SCHEDULE APRIL 4
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Track @ Colonial Relays
Womens Lacrosse vs. Towson 3 p.m.
APRIL 6 Track @ Colonial Relays
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APRIL 7 Lacrosse @ Lehigh 1:00
the wrestleback. “There were a couple of things that I think attributed to [Kevin’s success in the tournament],” AU Wrestling Head Coach Teague Moore said. “First and foremost, Kevin prepared this whole season, physically and mentally, to perform at his best at NCAAs. This whole year was geared at his best when it mattered most.” In addition to constant training and a demanding regimen of weightlifting and cardio workouts, Tao also had the proper rest to allow his body to recover. “We have an extremely long season in wrestling,” Moore said, referring to his squad’s November
PATRIOT LEAGUE STANDINGS WOMENS LACROSSE Navy 12-1, 3-0 PL ≥ American 6-6, 3-0 PL Holy Cross 5-7, 2-1 PL Colgate 6-6,2-1 PL Lafayette 7-6, 1-2 PL Lehigh 3-8, 1-3 PL Bucknell 1-10, 0-4 PL
meeting with Brian Levenson, a mental coach at the Center for Athletic Performance Enhancement (CAPE). Moore has called on sports psychologists for more than a decade, and tried multiple doctors before turning to Levenson after arriving at AU. “At championships you’re remembered for the last three days of your season, regardless of what you’ve done prior to,” Moore said. “Some athletes get overwhelmed because they know these three days in March are going to determine how people measure ‘my success’ or ‘my failure’ but our guys, we really don’t look at that [because of Levenson].” Levenson, popular with AU’s wrestlers, immediately appealed to Tao because of the personal relationship he fostered in their sessions. Tao said he enjoyed having someone other than a coach to talk to and found Levenson’s one-on-one meeting style to be very effective. Levenson carried conversation well and formed an important bond of trust, Tao said.
waves where Tao went a month or two without seeing him, but would later have weekly meetings. One of the most apparent impacts Levenson had on Tao was after the wrestler lost in AU’s last dual meet of the 2011-2012 season in February 2012. After falling to Bucknell’s Alex Pellicciotti, which Tao deemed “not acceptable,” he met with Levenson several times in preparation for the Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association Championships. Tao went on to a surprise second-place finish at the EIWA championship while qualifying for the NCAA Championships. “He worked with me on all of the personal, daily things I needed to go through and the mental focuses that I needed to have in competition that I kind of lost sight of throughout the season,” Tao said. “Coming to terms with what I do best and what I want to do when I wrestle and honing on my best skills in wrestling instead of getting overextended, that was the biggest mental shift for me.” JPAUNIL@THEEAGLEONLINE.COM
Look out for Part Two of our feature on Tao next week as we explore his potential Olympic run.